What is the difference between Pre-stressed and Pre-tensioned Concrete
Pre-stressed - both tendons and concrete stressed
Pre-tensioned - tendons are stressed before concrete is placed
3 Methods of Waterproofing a basement
Dense Monolithic Concrete - Waterproof space made from reinforced concrete
Tanking - Materials such as asphalt, bitumen to protect the structure
Drained Cavity Solution - Water is collected then drains away to sump and discharge using pump.
Advantages/ Disadvantages of Steel Frames
ADV: Quicker to assemble
Lighter
DIS: Price can fluctuate
Require fire protection
Advantages/Disadvantages of Concrete Frame
ADV: Strength/heat resistance is high
DIS: Heavier and more expensive
Harder/time consuming to install
Purpose of Weep Holes
Small holes in the outer wall which serves two purposes:
- Drainage - allows for drainage of any moisture that reach the back of the wall
Common mortar mix
1:1:6 - Cement, Lime & sand
Types of Brick bonds and formation
What is OSB and difference between plywood
Orientated Strand board - strands compressed together by resin.
Plywood - Laminated layers of wood
Difference between windows detail and glazed curtain wall glazing
Curtain walling does not take any structural load wheras windows have a linetl to keep structural integrity
Key differences between steel framed and concrete framed?
Steel is quicker to erect and more quality control.
Conctrete there is more flxibility within the design
Steel is more expensive
What is a RSJ and difference between UB
Rolled Steel Joist included taperered flanges
Universal beams are easier to work with
What is underpinning?
Removing subsoil beneath foundation and replaicng iyt with concrete, Craried in sequences so that the structure is still supported hwne the concrtete is poured
Difference in house between 1900’s one and modern one
Foundation - steepped brick vs strip
Walls - solid brick vs cavity
Roof - purlin roof/ king post truss vs trussed rafter roof
What is a strip foundation
strip of concrete supporting load bearing walls
Why is warm roof better than cold roof
The insulation placed above rood deck which provides better internal temp - reducing heat loss
Less condensation as insulation keeps roof deck warmer
What stage of the RIBA Plan of works would you go to tender
Stage 4 - Technical design where the architectural designs are produced ready for tender
What stage of the RIBA PLAN OF WOKRS WOULD YOU SUBMIT AN APPLICATION FOR BUILDING REGS
sTAGE 4 TECHNICAL DESIGN
What is a close coupled picthed roof
Two slopes where the common rafters are connected to horixonatl tie beams reducing spreading of rafters.
Describe the timber framed wall construction
Outer Leaf to inner: Brickwork, vented cavity 50mm or breather membrane, OSB board, insulation between timber studs, Vapour control layer and plasterboard layer
Purpose of Vapour Control Layer
Limits the passage of moisture and prevents condensation when warm air penetrates the structure.
- Contribute to air tightness and prevents heat loss
Purpose of breather membrane
What is the difference between solar smart panels and PV panels
PV: convert sunlight into electricity, cost less than smart panels, generally efficient
Solar Smart: Built in sensors, monitoring systems
Enhances efficiency with maximum output
High initial cost but can be integrated within smart home system
Types of Air conditioning systems in an office?
Central air conditioning system - used for large buildings and use network of ducts to distribute cool air.
Split Air conditioning - One outdoor unit and several indoor units connected - used on smaller spaces
Variable refrigerant flow - simultaneous heating and cooling - ideal for large offices with varying temp needs
How does VRF air condioning work?
Insulated pipes that connect outdoor and indoor units, control system which manages the flow of refrigerant