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Question 1

What would be the total vertical dimension, in inches, when using three modular brick courses and three mortar joints installed in a running bond pattern?

Answer 1

The answer is 8”. Modular brick is manufactured so that three courses will match a standard concrete block height of 8”.

Question 2

Which of the following are contract documents comprised of?

Answer 2

Drawings and the project manual but not the bidding requirements.

Question 3

Which of the following is a concern regarding the performance of porous asphalt concrete paving?

Answer 3

Disintegrates under repeated heavy traffic loads

Correct. Porous paving is not suitable for heavy traffic loads.

Question 4

In construction, which type of bolt is loaded mostly in tension?

Answer 4

Anchor

Correct. Anchor bolts hold a building to the foundation. They counteract uplift.

Question 5

Ohm’s law provides the relationship between electrical current, resistance and voltage. When applied to electrical circuits which of the following statements correctly describes the relationship between the three?

Answer 5

Current is directly proportional to voltage and inversely proportional to the resistance
Correct. Ohm’s Law states I = V/R where I is current in amps, V is voltage, and R is resistance.

The equation can be rewritten as V = IR where voltage is the product of current and resistance.

Question 6

A 24-foot long serpentine garden wall was originally designed to be double wythe, built from standard bricks. The client would like to know the cost difference to build the wall out of decorative concrete masonry units, also of a standard size of 8” x 8” x 16”. The concrete masonry unit wall will have the same footprint, size, and shape. The concrete masonry units are $2.10 each and the bricks are 80 cents each. The wall in both cases is 16” tall with a concrete cap.

Considering only the given difference in material costs, what is the cost difference between the two walls?

Answer 6

Incorrect - the answer is 270.00

To answer the question, we need to find the number of concrete masonry units and the number of bricks that will be needed to build the wall. Drawing a picture can help. Keep in mind that nominal sizes are implied in this question.
First the concrete masonry units: The wall is 24’-0” which is 288” long. Since a concrete masonry unit is 16” long, there will be 18 units for each course. Since the wall is 2 courses high, we will need 36 concrete units to build the wall.
Now the bricks: Find how many standard bricks at 8” long are needed to build the 288” long wall. 288” divided by 8” is 36 bricks. That is just one wythe and one course. We have 2 wythes and 6 courses, so multiply 36 times 12 for 432 bricks.
Now calculate the costs and then the cost difference: 36 concrete units at $2.10 each totals $75.60. 432 bricks at $0.80 each totals $345.60. Subtract $75.60 from $345.60 for a cost difference of $270.00.

Question 7

What unit of measurement is used to measure lighting output?

Answer 7

Light output is measured in lumens.

Question 8

For the design of new hostess area at a restaurant, a decorative brick wall is proposed. The bricks should have a uniform appearance and will be laid up with narrow joints.

Answer 8

Type FBX requires the highest level of manufacturing precision, meaning they are the most suitable for an application where the joints are narrow, providing little tolerance for variations in size and shape. FBX bricks also have the lowest tolerance for chippage, providing the uniform appearance that is called for.

Incorrect. Type FBS is general purpose face brick and has a wider size variation than this application calls for.

Incorrect. Type FBA permits a greater variance in size and shape among bricks, making it unsuitable for an application with tight joints.

Incorrect. NW is a brick grade, not a brick type like the other answers. NW brick is for use in locations with negligible weathering.

Question 9

Class II fire hose systems are being installed in the egress stair on each floor. The hoses will be housed in cabinets as shown in the exhibit image.

What is the length of the hose that is being installed?

Answer 9

100 feet

Correct. Fire hoses inside cabinets are usually no longer than 100 feet.

Question 10

While developing a wall section for a light-framed wood building, the senior architect redlines the drawings and asks that the material between the concrete foundation wall and the bottom plate be labeled.

What should this piece be labeled as?

Answer 10

Correct. The sill sealer/gasket limits air infiltration between the foundation and the frame.

Question 11

An architect is reviewing the door and frame schedule and specifications for a small boutique gym. The proposed gym is to occupy a 1700 sf space in a new retail tenant space on the ground level of a strip mall. The plans show a small vestibule, an open gym area with equipment and weights, a yoga studio, an administration office, and toilet and changing facilities.

What is the maximum force allowable to open the door to the administration office?

Answer 11

5 pounds maximum

Correct. See ADA 2010 Section 404.2.9 Door and Gate Opening Force.

Question 12

An MSDS should be requested for which of the following?

Answer 12

Hazardous materials
Correct. MSDS, or Material Safety Data Sheet, should be requested in the submittal requirements for all hazardous materials.

Question 13

An architect is laying out the floor plan for a small community theater. The building is Type VB construction. In order to get the entire program on one floor, a 2-hour firewall must be used. At the junction where the firewall meets the exterior wall, the building code requires the exterior wall to be rated for a certain distance on either side of the firewall.

What is this distance?

Answer 13

4’-0”

From IBC 2015 Section 706.5:
“Fire walls shall be continuous from exterior wall to exterior wall and shall extend not less than 18 inches (457 mm) beyond the exterior surface of exterior walls.

Exceptions:
1. Fire walls shall be permitted to terminate at the interior surface of combustible exterior sheathing or siding provided the exterior wall has a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour for a horizontal distance of not less than 4 feet (1220 mm) on both sides of the fire wall. Openings within such exterior walls shall be protected by opening protectives having a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour.”

Question 14

An architect is asked to build a small outbuilding using traditional brick masonry without steel lintels. Due to local regulations on the height of structures, the vertical space available is quite limited. The owner wants as much natural light in the space as possible.

Which type of arch should be used in this case?

Answer 14

Jack Arch
Correct. Only a few inches of camber are required.

Segmental Arch
Incorrect. Shorter in ratio than a perfect half-circle arch, but there is a better option.

Multicentered Arch
Incorrect. Certainly good for the height restriction, but there is a better option.

Parabolic Arch
Incorrect. These require a good deal of height per width.

Question 15

An existing exterior wall of a small library is constructed with 4” nominal lumber at 12” on center, and batt insulation between the studs. The resulting U-value of this assembly has been measured to be 0.25. An architect has been retained to increase the thermal performance of the building, and they have determined that the best way to do this is to add 2” of continuous rigid insulation to the exterior of the home. The rigid insulation has an R-value of R-4 per inch.

What is the resultant U-value of the assembly after the additional rigid insulation is added?

Answer 15

0.083
Correct. To find the answer, first find the total R-value of the rigid insulation based on the R-value per inch given in the scenario.

4 x 2 inches = 8

The rigid insulation has an R-value of 8. Next, find the R-value of the existing wall by taking the reciprocal of the U-value.

1 / 0.25 = 4

Now add the R-value of the rigid insulation to the R-value of the existing wall.

4 + 8 = 12

Finally, to find the U-value of the proposed assembly, take the reciprocal of the total R-value.

1 / 12 = 0.083

Question 16

The local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) is asking the architect for specifications that outline the functional requirements of the project prior to permitting.

Which of the following types of specifications would the architect use?

Answer 16

Performance
Correct. Performance specifications describe the outcome as opposed to exact instructions (prescriptive) or specific products (proprietary).

Prescriptive
Incorrect. Prescriptive specifications describe exactly which materials and format shall be used.

Descriptive
Incorrect. A descriptive specification lists detailed requirements for materials, products, and workmanship.

Closed
Incorrect. Closed is a type of proprietary specification in which bidders are limited to one specific product.

Question 17

An architect is preparing specifications for the local county jail, and needs to research the code requirements for fire and smoke dampers.

In which chapter of the IBC should they look?

Answer 17

Chapter 7
Correct. Chapter 7 is “Fire and Smoke Protection Features”. This is where you find information about requirements for fire walls, fire doors, and other protection features such as dampers.

Chapter 5
Incorrect. Chapter 5 is General Building Heights and Areas.

Chapter 9
Incorrect. Chapter 9 of the IBC is Fire Protection Systems.

Chapter 6
Incorrect. Chapter 6 of the IBC is Types of Construction.

Question 18

Information that is project specific and serves to modify the contract may be found in which of the following 3 documents?

Answer 18

Special Conditions
Correct. Special conditions is where project specific information is located that expands beyond the general and supplementary conditions.

Supplementary Conditions
Correct. Supplementary conditions are modifications or supplements to the general conditions.

General Requirements
Correct. Detailed administrative or procedural requirements are located in Division 01 General Requirements.

Bid Form
Incorrect. Bidding documents are not contract documents. They do not modify the contract.

General Conditions
Incorrect. The General Conditions are applicable to most projects. Project specific information that modifies the General Conditions are called Supplementary Conditions.

Instructions to Bidders
Incorrect. Bidding documents are not contract documents. They do not modify the contract.

Question 19

A luminaire has an output of 3 candelas.

How many lumens does the luminaire produce? Use the value for π rounded to the nearest hundredth. Round your answer to the nearest tenth of a lumen.

Answer 19

A lumen is defined as the amount of luminous flux on an imaginary sphere surrounding the light source at a distance of 1 foot away. Since the area of a sphere is 4π it follows that 1 candela equals 12.57 lumens. 12.57 lumens times 3 equals 37.7 lumens.

Question 20

A mechanical engineer is designing the heating system for a house in Alaska. In order to know how much heat will be required the degree days must be calculated.What is needed in order to calculate degree days?

What is needed in order to calculate degree days?Check the two that apply.

Answer 20

Climate data
Correct. Degree days are calculated based on average daily temperatures.

Baseline temperature
Correct. Degree days are calculated against a baseline temperature, usually 65 degrees.

Climate zone
Incorrect. Climate zone is not a factor for calculating degree days.

Growing season dates
Incorrect. Dates of the growing season are not a factor for calculating degree days.

Comfort zone of the occupants
Incorrect. Comfort zone is not a factor for calculating degree days.

Fuel type available
Incorrect. Fuel type is not a factor for calculating degree days.

Question 21

An owner has requested a basement as a part of the design of a new home in an open, suburban site.

What is the best excavation solution for the basement?

Answer 21

A benched excavation
Correct. This increases slope stability and the site should have plenty of room to incorporate a benched excavation.

Sheet piles
Incorrect. The basement would not require such a deep excavation method.

Trench
Incorrect. A trench is a narrow excavation for footings under walls, not basements.

Soldier Piles
Incorrect. This is a system best used on urban areas when deep excavation is needed.

Question 22

An architect is developing the specifications for a publicly funded job that will be leased out by a private real estate developer.

Which of the following items falls under division 5 of the specifications? Check the four that apply.

Answer 22

Steel Flood Bracing
Correct. Division 5 is Metals and it includes structural steel building components.

Stainless Steel Handrail
Correct. Division 5 is Metals and it includes fabricated metal components.

Prefabricated Guardrail
Correct. Division 5 is Metals and it includes prefabricated metal components.

Roof Access Ladder
Correct. Division 5 is Metals and it includes fabricated metal components.

Metal Rainscreen System
Incorrect. While the panel is made of metal, it is part of a rainscreen system which falls under Division 7 for Moisture and Thermal.

Brass Door Hardware
Incorrect. While made of metal door hardware is a part of the door and falls under Division 8 for Openings.

Question 23

An architect is preparing threshold details for a new spa located in Washington, DC, and notices that the vertical changes range from 1/4” to 3”.

What is the maximum vertical change allowed before a beveled edge will be needed? Enter your answer as a decimal.

Answer 23

The answer is .25”

Per the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, a maximum of 0.25” vertical change in floor levels may occur before a bevel is required. A change of more than 1/2” at a threshold is not allowed. If that occurs, it is then classified as a ramp. (The code is more lenient for existing threshholds, allowing for 3/4” maximum vertical change.)

Question 24

An architect is working with a structural engineer to design the layout of a new A-frame cabin. The cabin is to have a wood joist floor, and to utilize economical spans of available lumber in the local area.

In designing the cabin, which of the following would relate to the joist span? Check the four that apply.

Answer 24

Deflection allowable for the intended use
Correct. Joist span is related to the magnitude of applied loads, joist size and spacing, species and grade of lumber used, and deflection allowable for the intended use.

Joist size and spacing
Correct. Joist span is related to the magnitude of applied loads, joist size and spacing, species and grade of lumber used, and deflection allowable for the intended use.

Species and grade of lumber used
Correct. Joist span is related to the magnitude of applied loads, joist size and spacing, species and grade of lumber used, and deflection allowable for the intended use.

Magnitude of applied loads
Correct. Joist span is related to the magnitude of applied loads, joist size and spacing, species and grade of lumber used, and deflection allowable for the intended use.

Question 25

A new firehouse is being built to serve a large township. The architect is writing the specifications and needs to determine the best type of specification to use.

Which method of specification is best for public municipalities and government entities who are doing construction projects?

Answer 25

A combination of performance, description, and reference
Correct. It is advisable to use a combination of performance, description, and reference when creating specifications. A combination is used because it allows for competitive bidding, which is essential in public projects.

Performance specifying
Incorrect. It is advisable to use a combination of performance, description, and reference when creating specifications. A combination is used because it allows for competitive bidding, which is essential in public projects.

Proprietary specifying
Incorrect. Publicly-funded projects typically require open and competitive bidding.

Descriptive specifying
Incorrect. It is advisable to use a combination of performance, description, and reference when creating specifications. A combination is used because it allows for competitive bidding, which is essential in public projects.

Question 26

An architect is preparing detail drawings of a site’s pedestrian path.

In a typical 5-foot-wide concrete sidewalk, what is the distance in feet between expansion joints in the direction of travel?

Answer 26

20’-0”

Expansion joints in a concrete sidewalk are typically 20 feet apart. Control joints are cut more frequently so that the concrete is cut into squares, which would be a distance of 5 feet apart for this scenario.

Question 27

Fire alarm shop drawings must be prepared for a high-rise residential project.

Which of the following is shown on these drawings?

Answer 27

Annunciator panel
Correct. A fire alarm annunciator panel shows the status of various parts of a building such as fire alarms for use by the fire-fighting crew.

Fire ratings
Incorrect. Fire ratings are not part of the fire alarm plan.

Siamese connection
Incorrect. The fire department connection, or siamese connection, is not part of the fire alarm plan.

Smoke curtain
Incorrect. Smoke curtain locations are not part of the fire alarm plan.

Question 28

A business owner wants to put a 3 hole golf course on their site as a perk for their employees. The site will require drainage to promote healthy soil and plant life.

Which type of site drainage system should the site designer use in this instance?

Answer 28

Swale
Correct. Swales are shallow linear depressions that are designed into a site’s surface in order to carry away storm water. Since they have no shoulders, they are good for designs that require a seamless integration into the landscape such as on a golf course.

Drainage channel
Incorrect. A drainage channel is for carrying heavier amounts of rainfall perhaps from a collection of swales or other channels. A drainage channel is deeper than a swale and has distinctive shoulders, making it a hazard to the golf game and a dominating feature in the landscape.

Under-drainage
Incorrect. Unless it is required, under-drainage such as perforated drain tiles isn’t used because it is expensive and prone to failure if not done right. A percolation test will determine if it is needed.

Terracing
Incorrect. Terracing is not a drainage strategy. Terraces are to reduce soil erosion.

Question 29

A historic masonry-clad building with cast iron ornamentation is being repaired and restored.

During which restoration activities are dutchmen used?

Answer 29

Replacing a small section of deteriorated stone on a historic facade
Correct. A dutchman is a repair technique used in masonry to replace damaged or missing sections. First the damaged area is trimmed and squared. Then, new material is cut and finished to match the existing and bonded in place. Large dutchmen are anchored with dowels or cramps in addition to the adhesive bond.

Cleaning of the metal work by immersion into a chemical solution
Incorrect. This describes a caustic dip.

Replicating small, ornamental sections of broken decorative cast iron
Incorrect. A dutchman is a repair technique where damaged or missing sections are replaced. Deteriorated cast iron can be cut out and new cast iron spliced in place by welding or brazing.

Re-anchoring the stone cladding to the structure
Incorrect. Dutchmen are not used in anchoring cladding.

Question 30

A terrazzo floor is to be installed in the first floor of a slab on grade office building. Cracking due to movement of the slab is of a concern.

Which is the correct order of the assembly that the architect should design and detail?

Answer 30

Terrazzo, Reinforced mortar underbed, Isolation membrane, Layer of sand, Slab

Correct. This describes the ‘sand cushion’ installation of terrazzo, ideal for instances where cracking from movement in the slab is a concern.

Question 31

There are two identical fans that together produce 60 dB of sound.

If one fan is removed, what is the resulting dB level?

Answer 31

The answer is 57

Reducing sound intensity by half reduces it by 3 dB. 60-3=57.

Question 32

An exterior wall assembly has an R value of 16.5.

What is the U value?

Answer 32

The answer is between .06 and .061

U=1/R

Question 33

An architecture firm’s client requests the firm to design an animal hospital for small pets. The site is located in a suburban strip mall.

What occupancy classification is appropriate for this use?

Answer 33

B-Business
Correct. An animal hospital falls within the business category. This building type is typically only occupied during the day and provides office, professional, or service-type functions.

A-Assembly
Incorrect. The assembly classification is intended for gathering spaces for purposes including civic, social or religious functions; food, recreation or drink consumption; or awaiting transportation.

I-Institutional
Incorrect. Institutional occupancies are reserved for people who are not capable of self-preservation without physical assistance, or for people who are detained for penal or correctional purposes.

M-Mercantile
Incorrect. Mercantile occupancies are reserved for buildings that are displaying or selling merchandise, or are involved with the stock of goods, wares or merchandise.

Question 34

The principal architect has asked the senior architect to specify the required door hardware for several different building typologies.

Which of the following four scenarios would require panic hardware? Check the four that apply.

Answer 34

Rear exit for a large restaurant serving 220 people
Correct. Panic hardware is required for A and E occupancies with 50 or more occupants.

Main exit for a small private high school with 75 students
Correct. Panic hardware is required for A and E occupancies with 50 or more occupants.

Main door for a storage facility housing hazardous materials with occupant load of 3
Correct. Panic hardware is required for a High Hazard occupancies regardless of occupant load.

Gates in the fence at an outdoor swimming pool serving 60 people
Correct. Panic hardware is required for A and E occupancies with 50 or more occupants. An outdoor pool is an A occupancy.

27-story apartment building with 8 apartments on each floor
Incorrect. R occupancies do not require panic hardware.

Main exit for a preschool with 35 occupants
Incorrect. The occupancy load is under 50, so panic hardware is not required.

Question 35

The drawings for a slab on grade, wood-timbered structure are being prepared. The building will serve as a nature center in a state park in Minnesota.

Which of the following connectors shall be called out on the foundation plan?

Answer 35

Post base
Correct. The base of the post is embedded in the concrete foundation. Any anchors or embedded items are shown on a foundation plan for coordination.

Split ring connector
Incorrect. A split ring connector is used to connect heavy timbers.

Seat angle
Incorrect. Seat angles are used in steel column to beam connections.

Girder hanger
Incorrect. A girder hanger would be used in wood roof framing construction.

Question 36

Found in various building materials such as wood I-joists and electrical j-boxes, a section of material that is easy to remove in order to pull utilities is called which of the following?

Answer 36

Correct. Knock outs are precut holes that workers in the field can easily remove in order to pull wires through.

Question 37

You are detailing a residential stair with a straight run. The total rise is 10 feet. The total run is 14 feet. You’ve selected a rise of 7.5 inches per step.

What is the tread depth in inches per step?

Answer 37

The answer is 11.2

10 feet total rise x 12 inches/foot = 120 inches total rise 120 inches divided by a 7.5-inch rise = 16 risers. Straight-run stairs have one less tread than the total number of risers 16 risers – 1 = 15 treads. 14 feet total run x 12 inches = 168 inches, total run 168 inches divided by 15 treads = 11.2 inches per tread.

Question 38

Which component of an accessible curb ramp is permitted to have the steepest counter slope?

Answer 38

Flare
Correct. A ramp’s flare is not considered part of the accessible path of travel. Its maximum slope is 1:10.

Landing
Incorrect. A ramp’s landing should be relatively flat and only sloped for drainage. Its maximum slope is 1:48.

Adjoining road surface
Incorrect. An adjoining road surface is considered part of the accessible path of travel. Its maximum counter slope is 1:20.

Ramp
Incorrect. A ramp should have minimal counter slope. Its maximum counter slope is 1:48.

Question 39

An office suite is accessed with a power door lock. This type of door operates using which of the following?

Answer 39

Solenoid
Correct. A solenoid is an electromagnet composed of a metal coil wrapped in a helical shape around a metal core. It produces a magnetic field when electric current is run through the coil. Electronic locks use solenoids, magnets, or motors to operate.

Bus bar, Ball bearing, Raceway
Incorrect.

Question 40

A developer hires an architect to help with the design of several townhome projects. The developer’s plan is to create a series of prototype designs that will be modified for each region of the United States. One of the developer’s concerns is that a wood frame could be eaten by termites.

In which of the following regions are termites of most concern?

Answer 40

Southeastern seaboard

Correct. Refer to IBC 2015 Section 2603.8. The southeastern seaboard has a very high probability of termite infestation.

Question 41

Several types of engineers are often used as consultants on building projects. It can be unclear where one engineer’s scope ends and another engineer’s scope begins. For example, both plumbing engineers and civil engineers design systems for water and sewage.

How many feet beyond the line of the building does the plumbing engineer’s work end and the civil engineer’s work begin?

Answer 41

The answer is 5’-0”

The civil engineer designs the water and sewer systems on the building site up to 5 feet outside the building line. The plumbing engineer designs the plumbing from this point into the building.

Question 42

The structural engineer has recommended the use of a cantilevered footing on a project that has a tight site.

Based on this recommendation, where is the most logical location for this footing type?

Answer 42

At the edge of the project site

Correct. This would allow the foundation to be placed right next to the property line and/or setbacks.

Question 43

The owner for a 3-story wood-framed office building would like a large format porcelain tile in all the public corridors. The tile requires the floor structure to be stiff to avoid cracking of the tile.

Which of the following deflection limits provides the stiffest floor?

Answer 43

L/360
Correct. L/360 is a calculation that is done for finding maximum deflection in a horizontal structural member. L is the unsupported length. The answer is the maximum deflection that is allowed in inches. For example, if there are joists spanning 10 feet, using L/360 for deflection, the joists can only deflect .33 inches (10 feet x 12 inches per floor = 120 inches. Dividing by 360 we get 0.33 inches).

Question 44

A college campus is expanding to add another quad and to revamp the landscape of the existing quad. The new area will have three residence halls a covered parking area and an administration building. Plans are being drawn up for the site.

Which of the following are shown on Site Improvement Plans? Check the four that apply.

Answer 44

Skylights
Correct. The roof plan with skylights should be shown on the site plan.

Splash blocks
Correct. Splash blocks divert stormwater from gutters and leaders.

Finish floor grade elevation
Correct. The proposed finish floor elevation is shown on the site plan.

Revision box
Correct. All drawings have a revision box.

Window locations
Incorrect. Window locations are shown on the floor plan.

Garage floor plan
Incorrect. A garage floor plan should be shown on a floor plan, while its roof should be on the site plan.

Question 45

A landscape architect has submitted site documents for the new landscape design of a public housing complex.

During the review which items must the architect verify are included in the documents and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines? Check the four that apply.

Answer 45

Drainage grates
Correct. The direction of drainage grates must be perpendicular to the path of travel and be restricted in the opening size in order to meet ADA requirements.

Textural signals
Correct. Textural signals, when required, shall be documented in the site design.

Exterior stair handrails
Correct. All exterior stairs should be documented to provide handrail details that meet ADA requirements.

Non-slip surfaces
Correct. All exterior surfaces on accessible paths should be reviewed and documented to meet ADA requirements.

Interior ramp details
Incorrect. Interior ramp details are not part of the site documentation, but they should be included in architectural details.

Vestibule threshold
Incorrect. Vestibule details are not part of site documentation, but they should be included in architectural details.

Question 46

During a hurricane, a high rise condo loses it’s main power source.

Which system does the emergency power bring electricity to?

Answer 46

General lighting

Incorrect. Emergency lighting is powered by emergency power, not general lighting.

Question 47

While preparing and reviewing the contract documents, the architect should be familiar with the function and operational requirements of life safety building systems which include sprinklers, fire dampers and other smoke-control systems.

What is the purpose of smoke-control systems according to the International Building Code?

Answer 47

Provide an environment for occupant evacuation/relocation
Correct. The only purpose of smoke-control systems is to provide a tenable environment for evacuation or relocation of building occupants during a fire.

Provide an environment for preservation of building contents
Incorrect. Smoke-control systems are not designed or intended to preserve building contents during a fire. They only provide for occupant evacuation/relocation.

Provide assistance in fire suppression
Incorrect. Smoke-control systems are not designed or intended to provide assistance to fire suppression efforts. They only provide for occupant evacuation/relocation.

Provide an environment for quick restoration of building operations
Incorrect. Smoke-control systems are not intended to allow quick restoration of building operations. They only provide for occupant evacuation/relocation.

Question 48

It is estimated that an 18-foot-long steel column having a cross-sectional area of 30.8 square inches will bear an axial live load of 900 kips.

Using the formula L=(PxL)/(AxE) where P is the axial load, L is the length in inches, A is the cross-section area in inches, and E is the modulus of elasticity of steel (29,000 kips / sq. in), what will be the change in height of the column?

Answer 48

The column will shorten by the following equation.

L = (P x L) / (A x E)

where

L= change in length [in]

P = 900 kips

L = 18 ft = 18 x 12 in = 216 in

A = cross section of the
column = 30.8 sq. in

E = modulus of elasticity for
steel members = 29,000 kips/ sq. in

Thus,

L = (900 x 216) / (30.8 x 29,000)

L = 0.2176 in

Question 49

How many inches of cover are required in reinforced concrete that is cast against the earth?

Answer 49

The answer is 3”

Concrete requires cover to protect the rebar from corrosion. Cover thickness depends on environmental conditions.

Question 50

The following graphic depicts the ceiling plan for an office. The lighting requirements for the office are to have an even 40 footcandles of light on the desk surface which is assumed to be 3 feet above the floor. The ceiling is 9 feet high. The ceiling is a 2 by 2 lay-in grid.

Drag the lights on the left and place them in their appropriate locations on the ceiling plan to meet the lighting requirements. Use the minimum number of fixtures that will meet the requirement.

Answer 50

9 ft high ceiling – 3 ft work plane = 6 ft from the light fixture to the desk surface. Following the 40 footcandles graph line, we can see that at a vertical distance of 6 feet below the light fixture, there are 40 footcandles of light at a horizontal distance of 2 feet from the fixture. This means that no part of the office should be more than 2 feet horizontally from a light fixture. Therefore, light fixtures should be no more than 2 feet from the wall, and there should be no more than 4 feet between fixtures, or 2 feet on each side.

Question 51

You are designing a 6- story apartment building, which has trash and recycling chutes that residents will access on each residential floor. The chutes terminate on the ground floor in a terminal room. You are finalizing your code review, the sprinkler system details with the fire protection consultant, and construction details for this area of the project.

Which of the following is required according to IBC Chapters 7 and 9? Select the three that apply.

Answer 51

Sprinklers in the terminal room
Correct. The chute terminal room must have sprinklers per IBC 903.2.11.2.

A fire-rated chute access room separated from circulation spaces and adjacent uses by ¾-hour door in 1-hour wall
Correct. A chute access room is required and must be separated from adjacent uses with a ¾-hour door and 1-hour walls per IBC 713.13.

2-hour shaft wall at all chutes
Correct. 2-hour shaft walls are required at all chutes per IBC 713.4.

1-hour shaft wall at all chutes
Incorrect. A 2-hour shaft wall is required at all chutes per IBC 713.4, because it connects more than 4 stories.

Sprinklers at the top and all floors inside the chute
Incorrect. sprinklers are required on alternative floors inside the chute, not on all floors, per IBC 903.2.11.2.

60-minute chute door
Incorrect. A 90-minute chute door is required per IBC 903.2.11.2.

Question 52

An architect is working on a project that will require them to use the latest energy code, life safety code, and sustainable standards. These codes will require the building to be more airtight than the architect previously has designed.

Which of the following must accompany a more airtight building envelope?

Answer 52

High quality weather barrier
Correct. An airtight wall cannot dry out because there is no air flowing through it. Having a high quality weather barrier helps keep the wall dry. Weather barriers are placed on the outside of buildings and they work to prevent bulk water intrusion into the wall while allowing moisture from inside the wall to diffuse back out.

High-efficiency furnace
Incorrect. High efficiency furnaces may accompany this building type, but will not contribute to a more airtight building.

Attic ventilation
Incorrect. Attic ventilation is required by code and will accompany this building type but this is not a response to buildings becoming more airtight over the years. Attics are ventilated to keep cold roofs cold in the winter and to remove moisture and heat in the summer.

Increased insulation
Incorrect. Increased insulation wouldn’t make the building anymore airtight than before. It would increase thermal performance with a higher R-value.

Question 53

An architect is designing a building in a humid climate that subjects the building to great swings in temperature. The architect would like to use a curtain wall system.

What is a primary concern that the architect needs to account for in the design of the facade?

Answer 53

Thermal expansion and bowing of the curtain wall skin
Correct. The curtain wall will bow outwards due to thermal expansion under hot summertime conditions.

Twisting of spandrel beams due to thermal expansion
Incorrect. Twisting might occur, but do to the weight of the curtain wall, not thermal expansion.

Structural stresses due to irregular floor plans
Incorrect. No information was given regarding the floor plan.

Differential foundation settling
Incorrect. We do not have enough information to know if there will be differential settling.

Question 54

The specification writer asks the architect what level of specifications they are expecting at the construction document submission.

What should the architect tell the specification writer?

Answer 54

Three-part specifications
Correct. This is appropriate for construction document level development, but the owner–architect agreement should be referenced.

Performance specifications
Incorrect. Performance specifications are a type of specification; the question is asking what level of specifications should be provided.

Outline specifications
Incorrect. This is more appropriate for earlier phases of the project.

Basic material systems and system selection
Incorrect. This is appropriate for schematic design.

Question 55

A frameless glass door is proposed for an executive office. The door has glass sidelights on both sides for a minimal aesthetic.

Which type of hinge should be specified?

Answer 55

Pivot
Correct. Pivot hinges located at the top and bottom of the glass door provide a minimal look and work well for a heavy glass door.

Mortise
Incorrect. Mortise hinges do not provide a minimal aesthetic on glass doors.

Butterfly
Incorrect. Butterfly hinges are used for cabinetry.

Piano
Incorrect. A piano hinge is continuous and would not achieve a minimal aesthetic.

Question 56

The joints within the laminations of a glue-laminated beam must transfer stresses from one piece of wood to another.

Which type of joints are used within the laminations of glue-laminated beams? Check the two that apply.

Answer 56

Scarf
Correct. A scarf joint transfers both compressive and tensile strength from one lamination to the next.

Finger
Correct. A finger joint transfers both compressive and tensile strength from one lamination to the next.

Butt
Incorrect. Butt joints are not used within the laminations of glue-laminated beams.
Rabbet
Incorrect. Rabbeted joints are not used within the laminations of glue-laminated beams.
Dado
Incorrect. Dado joints are not used within the laminations of glue-laminated beams.

Mortise and tenon
Incorrect. Mortise and tenon joints are not used within the laminations of glue-laminated beams.

Question 57

Transitions between different building elements require special attention to prevent water and/or air infiltration.

What elements should be included at the sill condition in a masonry veneer wall backed up by concrete masonry units (CMU)? Select the four that apply.

Answer 57

Vinyl weep insert
Correct. Weeps allow moisture above the through-wall flashing to be vented from the wall cavity.

Through-wall flashing
Correct. Through-wall flashing is located below the window frame sill and provides a path for moisture that infiltrates through the veneer out of the wall cavity.

Cavity drainage material
Correct. Cavity drainage material is employed above through-wall flashing to ensure that mortar droppings do not interfere with the flashing or weeps venting the wall cavity.

Polyurethane sealant
Correct. Sealants are employed at the perimeter of window frames and adjacent masonry to retard against the intrusion of moisture.

Soldier course
Incorrect. A soldier course is a decorative element not associated with ensuring the integrity of the wall’s watertightness.

Brick tie
Incorrect. Brick ties are required for anchoring the veneer to the CMU substrate and are part of the wall structure and are not associated with the wall’s watertightness.

Question 58

A change was made in the field that is contrary to the design intent provided in the construction documents. The architect has rejected this change but the owner approves of it.

Does the contractor have a responsibility to change the work to meet the design intent?

Answer 58

No, the owner approves of the change and, as long as it doesn’t violate code, the owner has the last say
Correct. The owner has the final say when it comes to nonconforming work.

No, the contractor has the ability to change the work as he or she sees fit once the building is being constructed
Incorrect. The contractor must build to the intent of the drawings.

Yes, It must meet the design intent of the drawings. No exceptions.
Incorrect. There is room for exceptions as long as the correct sign-off is followed.

It is up to the architect to determine whether it should be changed back to the original design intent
Incorrect. It is the owner’s decision.

Question 59

The architect is trying to select the best masonry joint based on waterproofing.

Which of the following joints should they select?

Answer 59

Weather-struck
Correct. Weather-struck joints are sloped to allow rainwater to run off, so they would be the best choice.

Dry
Incorrect. Dry joints mean there is no mortar. In terms of providing the most weather-resistant wall, dry joints are not the best choice.

Flush joint
Incorrect. Flush joints mean the face of the mortar is flush with the face of the masonry, so they are less water resistant than other kinds of joints. Flush joints are for when a stucco coating is to be applied over the masonry.

Raked
Incorrect. Raked joints mean the face of the mortar is set back from the face of the masonry. This would allow water from rain to sit on the masonry, eventually leading to water infiltration problems in the wall.

Question 60

A proposed retaining wall abuts the property line.

Which type of retaining wall should be used?

Answer 60

L-type cantilever
Correct. An L-type cantilever retaining wall is a vertical stem wall and a slab base that looks like an L. It is constructed this way so that the wall may abut a property line or other obstruction.

T-type cantilever
Incorrect. A T-type cantilever type wall is not appropriate for a zero lot line location. This is because the base slab has both a heel and a toe and thus cannot position the vertical face to be on a property line.

Counterfort
Incorrect. A counterfort type wall is not appropriate for a zero lot line location. This is because the base slab has both a heel and a toe and thus cannot position the vertical face to be on a property line.

Battered
Incorrect. Battered is a word used to describe a retaining wall with a vertical face that slopes or steps back.

Question 61

An architect has been asked to assist on the redevelopment of an urban neighborhood to make it more pedestrian-friendly.

What ratio of street to building is most likely to accomplish this?

Answer 61

1:1 Ratio
Correct. This brings the facades closer to the street and has the narrowest ROW.

2:1 Ratio
Incorrect. This would make for a 100’ ROW and about a 44’ building height. It feels wide and has much more street to building frontage.

3:1 Ratio
Incorrect. This would allow for a park or boulevard down the center of the aisle, but feels very car-oriented.

5:1 Ratio
Incorrect. This is not a typical ratio for street design.

Question 62

In the absence of a geotechnical report, during the initial excavation the presence of ground water is found 1 foot beneath the surface. In preparing the foundation details, the architect should provide what kind of protection at the exterior face of the stem wall?

Answer 62

Waterproofing
Correct. Waterproofing is required when there’s the presence of groundwater. You would also need to dewater the site therefore reducing the risk of hydrostatic pressure against the stem wall.

Damp proofing
Incorrect. Damp proofing is only required when there’s no presence of groundwater.

Flashing
Incorrect. Flashing would not be appropriate below grade.

Drainage Plane
Incorrect. Drainage plane would be part of the waterproofing system.

Question 63

A steel beam is required for a renovation project where the load-bearing walls will be removed. The architect selects a beam based on the desired depth. The structural engineer runs the load calculations and selects a beam with more material located further from the neutral axis.

The engineer’s beam selection provides greater resistance to which of the following?

Answer 63

Bending
Correct. Bending forces in a beam are resisted when more material is located farther from the neutral axis. This is why a deeper beam can carry more load.

Question 64

An architect is writing the specifications for a new mixed use building. While writing the architect has determined that for quality and price control it is best to use different types of specifications for the different building components.

Which of the following exemplifies a performance-based specification?

Answer 64

Exhaust fans shall be rated for continuous operation at capacity of 500 CFM against a static pressure of 0.5 inches of water column and temperature of 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
Correct. Performance specifications set forth the desired result, not the means of achieving it.

Steel Shear Connector Studs shall conform to the requirements AISC 360 section M2, item 4 and AWS D1.1-10
Incorrect. This specification is an example of a reference specification.

Toilet tissue dispensers to be Bobrick B-76867 Classic Series surface mounted for two rolls in stainless steel with satin finish. Quantity as shown in drawings.
Incorrect. This specificationis an example of a proprietary specification.

Sand for grouting shall be screened to pass a 30 mesh sieve with not more than 5% passing a 100 mesh screen. Sand shall be clean, washed, sharp, durable natural particles, free from soluble salts or organic impurities.
Incorrect. This specification is an example of a descriptive specification.

Question 65

Following the bidding phase, the owner decides to value engineer the project due to budget overruns. The contractor suggests using vinyl windows, as opposed to the originally-specified aluminum-clad wood windows, and the team accepts. Six months after the windows are installed, it is determined that their U-value never met the code minimum.

Who is at fault?

Answer 65

The architect
Correct. The architect is responsible for specifying the original quality and allowing the VE change.

The manufacturer
Incorrect. The manufacturer would be at fault if the window assembly failed, but that isn’t the case here.

The owner
Incorrect. The architect is the design professional in charge of the quality of materials.

The contractor
Incorrect. The contractor submits the substituted product to the architect for approval.

Question 66

An architect is designing a series of townhouses in a hot humid climate with heavy precipitation. The architect needs to detail the exterior wall in a way that keeps moisture out of the wall.

Answer 66

Pressure-equalized rainscreen
Correct. In a hot, rainy, and humid climate, a method to control moisture is to use a pressure-equalized rainscreen. The rainscreen assembly includes a ventilated cavity that prevents moisture from getting into the wall. It is suitable for all climates, but especially ones with high levels of precipitation.

Question 67

The architect is designing a ramp in an assisted living facility and is checking the drawings for code compliance.

Select the statements that are true regarding accessible ramp design. Select the three that apply.

Answer 67

Vertical changes of ¼ inches do not require ramping
Correct. Ramps are required when height changes are greater than 1/2 inch.

Accessible ramps are limited to a 30-inch rise before a landing is required
Correct. Refer to ADAAG 405.6.

A ramp landing required area may overlap a required door maneuvering clearance
Correct. Door maneuvering clearances and ramp landings are allowed to overlap.

Ramps in senior living facilities cause insurance premiums to go down
Incorrect. Ramps in senior living facilities make insurance premiums higher because they are tripping hazards.

Handrails, edge protection, and vertical posts may obstruct the minimum required width of an accessible ramp
Incorrect. Protrusions into the required clear width of accessible ramps are not allowed.

A ramp that rises 4” must have handrails.
Incorrect. Handrails are required on ramps that rise more than 6 inches.

Question 68

An architect is preparing the drawings and specifications for a new library. The following components are to be included in the building.

Which is likely to be custom fabricated?

Answer 68

HVAC ductwork
Correct. Sheet metal ductwork is custom-made.

HVAC supply diffusers
Incorrect. Supply diffusers are manufactured as a unit and then purchased and installed.

A gas fireplace
Incorrect. Gas fireplaces are purchased and installed as a unit.

HVAC air handling unit
Incorrect. Air handlers are manufactured, purchased, and installed.

Question 69

An electrical circuit has a voltage supply of 10 Volts and a current of 5 mA.

What is the resistance?

Answer 69

2000 ohms

The current that will flow in a DC circuit is directly proportional to the voltage (V) and inversely proportional to the resistance (R) of the circuit (i.e., Ohm’s law).

Ohm’s law is often written as I = V/R or V = IR. To calculate the resistance, rearrange the equation and solve for R.

R = V / I

V = 10V
I = 5mA = 0.005A
R = 10V / 0.005A = 2000 ohms

Question 70

The plans for a new community room show light switches in three different places, each serving a different entry point into the room. All serve the same group of overhead light fixtures.

What type of switches should you see in the plans?

Answer 70

Three four-way switches
Correct. Four-way switches are used when connecting three different switches to the same light or group of lights.

Three three-way switches
Incorrect. Three-way switches are used when two switches connect to the same fixtures.

Three two-way switches
Incorrect. Two-way switches are not used when more than one switch connects to the same fixture.

Three one-way switches
Incorrect. There is no such thing as a one-way switch.

Question 71

Expected level of quality is hard to convey in a construction project. Workmanship can vary and expectations among builders, suppliers, owners, and architects can differ.

Which actions are likely to get the quality of workmanship that is expected? Check the four that apply.

Answer 71

Require samples or mock-ups
Correct. Having samples and mock-ups establishes criteria by which the final product can be judged.

Require a certain known manufacturer or supplier
Correct. This can help guarantee a higher level of workmanship.

Required conformance to applicable standards
Correct. Referencing standards such as those published by ANSI gives an objective criteria to measure the work.

Establish inspection requirements
Correct. Work that passes certain inspection procedures provides an expected level of workmanship.

Question 72

The funding stipulations for a new museum require the building to achieve at minimum a LEED certification. The architect has neglected to include sustainable products and procedures in the material schedule and specifications, which are needed to achieve LEED certification.

What is the potential consequence of this exclusion?

Answer 72

If the design team is contractually required to achieve a level of LEED certification, it could be considered as a breach of contract if points are missed.
Correct. If specific information is not included in the specifications, the correct products to ensure LEED certification might not get incorporated.

Question 73

During the bidding process, the contractor prices out wood windows for a new school project. After receiving the bid, the owner wants to value engineer the windows.

What is the cheapest option available?

Answer 73

Vinyl
Correct. Vinyl would be the best option.

Aluminum clad wood
Incorrect. Aluminum clad wood would be the most expensive option due to it being a combination of aluminum and wood.

Fiberglass
Incorrect. Fiberglass would be the second cheapest option.

Aluminum
Incorrect. Aluminum would be the third cheapest option.

Question 74

A one-story building with a story height of 10 feet is being designed. One of the columns needs to be sized. The column will be select structural grade pine lumber. The allowable unit stress is 1450 psi. The column must carry a load of 16,000 pounds.

Use the equation f=P/A where f is stress, P is load, and A is area.

What is the smallest column that will support the required load?

Answer 74

Correct. To solve the problem, first rearrange the equation given to solve for A (area).

A=P/f

Now, fill in the values for P (load) and f (allowable stress). A=16,000/1,450.

Solving for A, we get 11 square inches. A 4x4 column provides 12.25 square inches (3.5 inches times 3.5 inches) and is therefore the most efficient size that will carry the load.

Question 75

The design of a small cafe has a self-service area where patrons can help themselves to packaged snack items and pay for them at the cash register. The snacks are displayed on several wall-hung shelves that are 10” deep. To meet accessibility requirements, the designer plans for a parallel approach by a wheelchair user.

Based on accessibility regulations, what is the maximum shelf height a wheelchair user can reach?

Answer 75

48”
Correct. Based on accessibility requirements, 48” is the maximum vertical reach for an unobstructed side reach for a wheelchair user. An unobstructed reach as defined in accessibility regulations allows for an obstruction that is a maximum of 10” deep.

Question 76

The design for a new airport terminal includes aluminum column covers. The column covers will be inside the terminal.

Which CSI MasterFormat section is referenced?

Answer 76

055813

Correct. Formed metal fabrications are found in Division 5. This is the only choice that is in that division.

Question 77

A structural engineer is designing wood beams for a ski lodge and needs to calculate the section modulus.

Which of the following is used to calculate the section modulus of a piece of lumber? Check the three that apply.

Answer 77

Actual dimensions
Correct. The section modulus is a property of a body’s cross- section—that is in part determined by the vertical dimension from the centroid to the top (or bottom, because they are the same).

Vertical distance from the centroid to the top of the section
Correct. The section modulus is the formula S = I/y, where y is the distance from the centroid to the top (or bottom).

Moment of inertia
Correct. The section modulus is the formula S = I/y, where I is the moment of inertia.

Moisture content
Incorrect. The section modulus is a property of a body’s cross-sectional shape; as a result, moisture content is not considered.

Nominal dimensions
Incorrect. Nominal means “named.” To calculate the section modulus we need actual dimensions, not nominal ones.

Species
Incorrect. The section modulus is a property of a body’s cross-sectional shape; species is not considered.

Question 78

An architect is assembling a drawing set. In addition to plans and elevations, the architect has included a sheet with wall sections.

What information is conveyed in a wall section?

Answer 78

The detailed arrangement of components
Correct. The wall section shows the assembly of wall components, such as waterproofing, insulation, finish, and structure.

Question 79

The architect is reviewing a wall section that shows liquid-applied waterproofing membrane on the exterior side of the basement wall.

What is the primary purpose of this membrane?

Answer 79

To make the building resistant to water damage by forming an impervious barrier
Correct. Building resistance to water damage is the purpose of waterproofing. Examples include in showers, wet areas, kitchens, exteriors, and foundations.

Question 80

The architect has specified that the copper roofing shall be installed with galvanized steel fasteners.

What is the most likely outcome in this scenario?

Answer 80

Galvanic action will occur causing corrosion and deterioration of the fasteners
Correct. The galvanized steel fasteners are the anodic metal in the galvanic couple. The anodic metal has the smaller surface area of the two. Together, this leads to corrosion of the anodic material.

Question 81

As a piece of wood loses its natural moisture, shrinkage occurs.

Which type of shrinkage is most prominent in solid lumber?

Answer 81

Tangential
Correct. Tangential shrinking is the most significant type of shrinkage. It is the type of shrinkage that occurs parallel to the growth rings.

Radial
Incorrect. Radial shrinking is the second most significant type of shrinkage. Radial shrinking is perpendicular to, or across, the growth rings.

Cupping
Incorrect. Cupping is not a kind of shrinkage. Cupping is a type of warping due to tangential shrinkage.

Longitudinal
Incorrect. Longitudinal shrinking is practically negligible. This type of shrinking affects the length of a piece of wood.

Question 82

The architect is coordinating with the electrical engineer on a voltage drop issue in the circuit that ties together three of the main offices.

Which of the following could be causing the voltage drop in the circuit?

Answer 82

Impedance
Correct. Voltage drop refers to the reduction in voltage or voltage loss due to impedance.

Transformer
Incorrect. Voltage is increased or decreased by transformers using induction coils. This is not voltage drop, which is voltage loss due to impedance.

Fuse
Incorrect. Fuses break circuits to protect against overcurrent; they do not cause voltage drops.

Circuit breaker
Incorrect. Circuit breakers are safety devices; they do not cause voltage drops.

Question 83

A shelf must be mounted at a height which allows a person in a wheelchair to use it from a side approach.

Based on accessibility codes, what is the maximum height for mounting a shelf?

Answer 83

48”
Correct. Based on accessibility codes, 48” is the maximum vertical reach for a person in a wheelchair who has an unobstructed side reach.

Question 84

The R-value is 6 and the material is 6” thick.

What is the K-Factor? Round to the nearest tenth.

Answer 84

The answer is 1

K-Factor = inches of material/R-Value. 6/6 = 1.

Question 85

A ramp will be used to provide the accessibility to an existing entrance.

Which can provide edge protection for the ramp on an accessible route?

Answer 85

Curb
Correct. Edge protection along ramp runs and landings keeps wheelchair casters and crutch tips on the surface and can be provided by curbs, barriers, or extended surfaces.

Question 86

An architect is putting together a set of drawings and has equipment plans.

Where should these drawings fall in the recommended NCS organization?

Answer 86

In the Q series, under the 100 sheet designator

Correct. Q designates equipment and 100 designates floor plans.

Question 87

An architect is including a specification for nonstructural metal stud framing in the project manual.

In which division does this specification belong?

Answer 87

Division 9

Correct. Non-load-bearing metal framing is located in Section 09 22 00 which is in Division 9 along with finishes.

Question 88

There are a number of ways to mitigate sound though HVAC ductwork. One of these methods is active noise cancellation.

How does active noise cancellation work?

Answer 88

Through generation of frequencies that are out of phase with the source noise
Correct. Noise cancelling electronically alters sound waves by flattening out the waves.