state 2 functions of a foundation in domestic construction?
purpose of a cavity wall?
to prevent moisture from the outer leaf (skin) of the wall from penetrating into the inner leaf, keeping internal structure dry
2 commons types of roof coverings used on dwellings
give one advantage and disadvantage of uPVC window
Advantages: resistant to rot
Disadvantage: if sitting in direct sunlight discolouration can occur
2 materials suitable flr floor insulation
rigid foam board, mineral wool
function of a DPC and typical placement
barrier to prevent moisture from rising up from the ground into the walls.
what is the function of a dpc wall and where is it typically placed?
damp proof course is a barrier that prevents moisture from rising up from the ground into the wall
Placed in the wall, just above ground lebel
name 2 joints used in timber construction
why is adequate site drainage essential
to prevent water from pooling around the foundation, which can cause instability
what’s the purpose of a vapor barrier
prevents warm moist air from inside the building from passing into the roof structure which can cause rot
learn the cross- section of a concrete block
explain under floor heating
a central hearing system where the floor is used as a radiator heated by pipes for a hydronic system or electric heating cables for a dry system which r installed in or under the floor
2 advantages of underfloor heating
energy efficient: operates at a much lower temperature than radiators
even heat distribution: provides consisten even heat
what is airtightness and what’s it’s importance
sealing up gaps in the building to prevent air leaking out
- stops heat from escaping
- prevents damp and mould in walls
2 methods used in new homes to improve energy efficiency
Lots of insulation: to trap in heat
MVHR: system that brings in fresh air but keeps the heat from the old air
3 heath and safety risks and how to reduce
how does a domestic water system supply cold and hot water
cold water: comes from the mains; a tank in the attic stores it for the house
Hot water: cold water from mains go into a hot water cylinder, the boiler heats a seperate loop of water, the hot loop heats up the cold water
2 advantages of heat pumps?
cheaper to run: use less energy to make more heat
eco - friendly/ they don’t burn fuel
construction of a panelled door
there’s a frame that makes the door strong then panels are fitted inside the frame
whats the purpose of architrave, skirting board and door stop
architrave: hides the gap between the wall and door frame
skirting board: protects the wall from furniture and vaccine
Door stop: stops the door from hitting tje door
name 2 window opening mechanisms
casement window: the window sash is hinged on the side, you open it by turning a handle to swing it outwards or inwards
Sash window: the window has 2 parts that slide vertically past eachother, they are balanced by weights and pulleys allowing it to stay open when you let go
what is thermal bridging?
a weak spot in a wall or roof where heat can escape much faster than the surrounding area. can be caused by materials with high conductive thermal energy