What is a strip foundation and when would you use them?
Long and narrow foundations that run under walls. Typically used when the structure has load bearing walls other than isolated columns. They are cost effective. Best used for houses and small apartment blocks
What is a pad foundation and where would you use them?
usually square or rectangular pads in conjunction with columns. Best used when loads are moderate and concentrated at certain points . Multi storey residential buildings with columns
What is a raft or mat foundation and where would you use them?
Foundation covers the area of the bottom floor. Best used with poor ground conditions with high loads as it spreads loads on the footplate of the building. High rise buildings or larger footprint buildings
What is piling?
Type of foundation that transfers loads from a structure to more stable soil layers or rock formations in the ground. Best used for poor ground conditions or when structures need high load or are tall
Name some types of piling
End bearing piles (load into strong layers ie. rock). Bored piles (Cast in situ). Driven piles; precast and hammered into the ground
Name a time you have offered advice to a client around piling
At a surrey schools project I advised the use of CFA (Continuous Flight augur) a type of bored piling solution due to the lower vibration requirements as the project was in proximity to other buildings
Driven piling strengths and weakness’
Fast and cost effective. Improves soil conditions so can see cost effectiveness for other structural elements of a building. Also doesn’t require removal of soil.
However does come with higher noise and vibration
Bored piles strengths and weakness’
Slower due to the the need to pour concrete and let concrete cure, also required removal of soil that adds to costs.
However practically noise and vibration free so good for urban environments.
What is an RC frame?
Reinforced concrete frame. Made of reinforced concrete columns and beams.
Where are you most likely to use a RC frame?
Multi story buildings and commercial buildings with a long lifespan due to natural fire resistance and low maintenance requirements
Strengths and weaknesses of an RC frame
Adv:
High strength and load capacity - due to inclusion of steels
naturally fire resistant
Lower material cost
Durable and resistant
Dis:
Slower installation due to formwork and curing
Less modifiability
Higher carbon footprint in cement production
heavier than steel so foundation considerations.
What is an SFS
Steel frame system. Made of steel members
Where are you most likely to use an SFS
Skyscrapers and office towers due to high strength to weight ratio, or large spanning structures like stadiums or airports
Strengths and weaknesses of a SFS
Str: High str to weight ratio, easily modified, durable and long lasting reduced foundation solutions (str to weight), faster installation (no curing time), recyclable so more environmentally friendly
Weak: Higher material cost, does require more skilled labour for connections, needs fire protection, can corrode if not maintained.
What is a wood frame and where would you see it?
Framing system using wooden members. used in residential buildings
Strengths and weaknesses of a wooden frame
Str: Cost effective, fast construction, sustainable, good thermal insulation, reduced foundational requirements
Weak: Fire risk, not as durable and susceptible to mold and pests, less sound insulation than RC
What is Part M of the building regulations?
Building regulations that focus on ensuring buildings are accessible and usable by all people (disabled / low mobility)
What are the key volumes of Part M
VOl 1 - Dwellings
VOL 2 - Buildings other than dwellings
What is prefabrication
Refers to the process of building components off site in a factory or controlled environment. It is a key part of modern methods of construction
What is modular building
Refers to building a structure off site in sections or modules, which are then transported to final location and assembled
Name some types of prefabrication
Modular, Panelized systems (walls and floors in panels),
What are the str and weaknesses of Prebarication
Str: Faster build time so can result in lower costs, Higher quality due to constructed in controlled enviroments like factories, Safety - due to less work on site, sustainable due to less waste and better material efficiency
Weak: Requires higher design coordination, can have logistical problems with transport and storage, higher initial costs in manufacturing and design, perception of lower quality (although this is changing)
Give me an example of when you have used a Modern Method of Construction
During a surrey schools project, I advised the use of prefabrication and modular construction to construct a small teaching space in an active school. Prefabrication was a good fit due to the requirement for quick installation during the holidays.
Examples of advice when using MMC
Pirbright, Prefab modular was considered due to site good logistical characteristics. Not a good fit due to limitations on prefab contractor to suit the employers requirmeents
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