Construction Materials & Systems Flashcards
7 cards from real CSI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Construction Materials & Systems flashcards as text
What characteristic defines a 'thermoplastic' roofing membrane such as TPO or PVC?
Answer: It can be repeatedly softened by heat and re-welded at seams
Thermoplastic membranes can be repeatedly softened by heat and fused at seams using hot air welding, distinguishing them from thermoset membranes like EPDM.
In concrete mix design, what is the water-to-cementitious materials ratio (w/cm) primarily used to control?
Answer: Durability and compressive strength of hardened concrete
Lower w/cm ratios produce stronger, more durable hardened concrete by reducing porosity, while higher ratios increase workability but reduce strength and durability.
What is the primary benefit of using structural insulated panels (SIPs) compared to conventional wood stud framing?
Answer: Superior continuous insulation with fewer thermal bridges and faster assembly
SIPs provide continuous insulation with minimal thermal bridging because the foam core spans the full wall thickness, and factory fabrication enables fast on-site assembly.
According to CSI MasterFormat, Division 09 covers which major work area?
Answer: Finishes
Division 09 in MasterFormat covers Finishes, including plaster, gypsum board, tiling, flooring, painting, and wall coverings.
What is the function of a 'slip sheet' in a flooring installation?
Answer: To allow independent movement between the substrate and flooring system
A slip sheet (typically polyethylene film) is placed between layers to allow them to move independently and prevent stress transfer from substrate movement to the finish floor.
Which ASTM designation governs standard specification for structural steel shapes?
Answer: ASTM A992
ASTM A992 is the standard specification for wide-flange structural steel shapes used in building framing, replacing A36 as the preferred specification for W-shapes.
In a precast concrete wall panel system, what is the purpose of an 'erection insert'?
Answer: A cast-in anchor that allows a crane to lift and position the panel during installation
Erection inserts are cast-in lifting hardware (typically coil loops or clutch anchors) that engage a crane's rigging hardware to safely lift and position precast panels during erection.