Materials & Resource Management Flashcards

A contractor needs a specialty excavator for only three weeks on a single project. Which option is usually most economical?

Answer: Rent the equipment

For short, infrequent use, renting avoids ownership costs such as depreciation, storage, and financing.

Under the straight-line method, a $200,000 loader with a $20,000 salvage value and a 6-year life depreciates how much per year?

Answer: $30,000

($200,000 − $20,000) ÷ 6 = $30,000 per year.

A subcontractor proposes an alternate product that is not listed in the specifications. What is the proper procedure?

Answer: Submit a formal substitution request for the design professional's review

Substitutions need a formal request and approval from the architect/engineer according to the contract documents.

Which practice best protects moisture-sensitive materials such as gypsum board stored on site?

Answer: Store them off the ground in an enclosed, dry area

Keeping materials raised and enclosed prevents moisture damage, mold, and warping.

A crew of 4 installs 800 LF of pipe in 5 eight-hour days. What is the productivity rate in LF per labor-hour?

Answer: 5.0 LF/labor-hour

4 workers × 40 hours = 160 labor-hours; 800 ÷ 160 = 5.0 LF per labor-hour.

What is the main purpose of a material expediting log?

Answer: To track the procurement status and delivery dates of materials

An expediting log tracks orders, submittals, fabrication, and delivery dates so late materials get flagged early.

Stacking trades too densely in one work area usually causes:

Answer: Lower labor productivity because of congestion

Trade stacking creates congestion and interference, which lowers labor productivity.