Construction Materials and Methods Flashcards

What does 'STC' (Sound Transmission Class) measure in building construction?

Answer: Ability of a partition to attenuate airborne sound transmission

STC is a single-number rating that describes how well a building partition reduces airborne sound transmission between spaces.

Which concrete admixture is used to accelerate the curing process in cold-weather conditions?

Answer: Calcium chloride

Calcium chloride is a common accelerator that speeds hydration, allowing concrete to gain strength faster during cold weather pours.

What is cross-laminated timber (CLT)?

Answer: Structural panels made of solid wood boards bonded in alternating perpendicular layers

CLT panels consist of solid sawn lumber layers bonded perpendicular to one another, creating strong, dimensionally stable structural panels for walls, floors, and roofs.

What is the function of a 'through-wall flashing' in masonry wall construction?

Answer: To intercept water that has penetrated the wall and direct it to weep holes

Through-wall flashing is a continuous impermeable membrane embedded in the wall assembly to intercept infiltrated water and channel it to weep holes at the exterior.

What distinguishes a 'Type X' gypsum board from standard gypsum board?

Answer: It contains glass fibers that give it enhanced fire resistance

Type X gypsum board is formulated with glass fibers distributed throughout the core, improving its fire resistance rating for use in fire-rated assemblies.

In the context of construction scheduling, what is a 'critical path'?

Answer: The longest sequential chain of dependent activities that determines the project's minimum duration

The critical path is the sequence of dependent project activities with zero float whose total duration equals the project duration; any delay on it delays the project.