BArch Bachelor of Architecture Building Materials and Construction Technology 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is 'platform framing' (also called 'western framing') in wood light-frame construction?
- A method where studs run continuously from foundation to roof
- A system where each story is framed on top of the completed platform of the floor below (Correct answer)
- A modular prefabrication system for heavy timber
- A post-and-beam framing method
Correct answer: A system where each story is framed on top of the completed platform of the floor below
In platform framing, each floor deck acts as the work platform and bearing surface for the next story's walls, making it safer and easier to build than balloon framing.
Question 2: What is the primary structural advantage of glulam (glued-laminated timber) over sawn lumber?
- It is lighter per unit volume
- It can be fabricated in larger cross-sections and longer spans than available sawn lumber allows (Correct answer)
- It has better fire resistance than sawn lumber
- It requires no connections or fasteners
Correct answer: It can be fabricated in larger cross-sections and longer spans than available sawn lumber allows
Glulam combines multiple lumber laminations bonded with adhesive, enabling large cross-sections and long-span curved or straight members not achievable with a single log.
Question 3: What is the function of a 'control joint' in a masonry or concrete wall?
- To anchor the wall to the structural frame
- To provide a planned location where cracking due to shrinkage or thermal movement can occur harmlessly (Correct answer)
- To connect two dissimilar materials at an interface
- To allow differential settlement between adjacent foundations
Correct answer: To provide a planned location where cracking due to shrinkage or thermal movement can occur harmlessly
Control joints are intentional planes of weakness placed at regular intervals so that volumetric changes in masonry or concrete result in neat, controlled cracks at the joint rather than random cracking.
Question 4: Which fire-resistance rating system classifies building types by construction material in the International Building Code (IBC)?
- Types I through V (Correct answer)
- Classes A through F
- Groups I through IV
- Grades 1 through 5
Correct answer: Types I through V
The IBC classifies construction into Types I–V based on the fire resistance of structural members, with Type I (non-combustible, highest fire rating) to Type V (combustible, lowest rating).
Question 5: What is 'curtain wall' construction?
- A load-bearing masonry exterior wall
- A non-structural exterior cladding system that hangs from the building's structural frame (Correct answer)
- A retaining wall at the perimeter of an underground parking structure
- An acoustic barrier wall around mechanical equipment
Correct answer: A non-structural exterior cladding system that hangs from the building's structural frame
A curtain wall is a lightweight, non-load-bearing exterior envelope system — typically aluminum framing with glass or panel infill — that is hung from the primary structure.
Question 6: What type of joint is used in steel construction to allow rotation while preventing translation?
- Moment connection
- Pin (shear) connection (Correct answer)
- Splice connection
- Expansion joint
Correct answer: Pin (shear) connection
A pin connection (simple shear connection) allows the beam end to rotate freely, transferring only vertical shear force to the column without transmitting bending moment.
BArch Bachelor of Architecture Building Materials and Construction Technology 2
What is 'platform framing' (also called 'western framing') in wood light-frame construction?