BArch Bachelor of Architecture Building Materials & Construction Technology

Question 1

What is the water-to-cement (w/c) ratio's primary effect on hardened concrete?

Accepted Answer

Lower w/c ratio produces higher strength and durability

Answer

Higher w/c ratio increases compressive strength

Answer

w/c ratio affects only workability, not strength

Answer

Lower w/c ratio increases permeability

Question 2

Which roofing membrane system consists of multiple layers of bitumen-saturated felts bonded with hot asphalt or coal tar?

Accepted Answer

Built-up roofing (BUR)

Answer

Single-ply TPO membrane

Answer

Standing seam metal roof

Answer

Spray polyurethane foam (SPF)

Question 3

In masonry construction, what is the purpose of a weep hole at the base of a cavity wall?

Accepted Answer

Allow water that enters the cavity to drain out

Answer

Provide ventilation to the wall interior

Answer

Relieve thermal expansion pressure

Answer

Anchor the brick veneer to the backup

Question 4

Gypsum board (drywall) achieves its fire-resistant properties primarily because:

Accepted Answer

It contains chemically combined water that absorbs heat when released

Answer

It is made of non-combustible steel fibers

Answer

Its paper facing char prevents burning

Answer

It has low thermal conductivity

Question 5

What is the primary difference between tempered glass and laminated glass in terms of failure behavior?

Accepted Answer

Tempered glass shatters into small cubes; laminated glass holds together in a sheet

Answer

Laminated glass shatters into sharp shards; tempered stays intact

Answer

Both fail identically under impact

Answer

Tempered glass is stronger but laminated glass is thicker

Question 6

Which insulation material has the highest R-value per inch and is commonly used where space is limited?

Accepted Answer

Closed-cell spray polyurethane foam (ccSPF)

Answer

Fiberglass batt

Answer

Mineral wool

Answer

Cellulose blown-in