Chap 17 Construction Basics

Question 1

___________ are detailed building plans used to evaluate design, determine fesibility, and guide construction of a structure.

a. Blueprints
b. Foundations
c. Plans
d. Specifications

Answer 1

a. Blueprints

Question 2

2. A concrete slab is part of the
   a. foundation.
   b. framing skelton.
   c. roof.
   d. walls

Answer 2

a. foundation

The foundation *is the basic structure which the rest of the house sits. *

A typical foundation system is usually concrete slab, pier and beams, crawl space, or basement. The foundation supports the rest of the structure so its important that it is strong and dry. New york building standards require at leas*t eight inches of visible foundation wall above grade (ground level). *

Foundation walls are the side walls that support the structure. They are typically made of poured concrete, concrete block, or brick.

Question 3

3. What type of framing is no longer permitted b most building codes?
   a. balloon
   b. joist and rafters
   c. platform
   d. post and beam

Answer 3

a. balloon

Balloon construction, also called balloon framing, is a type of framing with long studs going up the entire length of the house, from the foundation to the roof.

** (most common) Platform construction**, also called platform framing, is a type of framing by which the house or building is constructed one story at a time, with each story serving as a platform for the next.

Post and beam construction, also called post and beam framing, is a type of framing with the floor for higher stories (and the roof) supported by beams that sit on top of posts and the outside wall perimeter.

Question 4

____________ insulation is sprayed into irregular spaces and turns from a liquid to a solid.

a. Blanket
b. Foamed-in
c. Loose-fill
d. Reflective

Answer 4

b. foamed in

*New York State regulates insulation requirements through the New York State Energy Code. This Code includes information on whre insulation is to be installed and what materials are used, among other regulations. *

Types of Insulation.

Insulation is installed once the main structure is complete.

• blanket insulation. This insulation often comes in a pre-measured width to pair with standard stud, joist, or fafter spacing. It is made of a mineral fiber, such as fiberglass, enclosed in paper covering.
• foamed in insulation. This type of insulation is sprayed into an area. It starts as liquid, but expands into a plastic solid. It is often made of a polyurethane mixture and works well for insulationg irregualryly shaped spaces.
• Loose-fill or blown in insulation. This type of insulation is blown into an area, often the attic space. It is made of fiber pellets or loose fibers and is good at filling small, tight areas.
• Rigid insulation. Rigid insulation is commonly used on basement walls and can come in a variety of thicknessess. It is made of a fibrous material, such as fiberglass or poly urethane.
• Reflective insulation. Reflective insulation is used between roof rafters, joists or wall studs. It is known for its reflcetive surface that either contains or resists heat to keep space warm or cool. It should be exposed to an open air space to work properly.

Question 5

5. Most homes today have a modern heating system called a ____________ system.
   a. forced warm air
   b. heat pump
   c. hot water
   d. steam

Answer 5

a. forced warm air

The components of this system include a furnace (with a blower), a heat source (gas, oil, wood, electricity, etc.) distribution ducts, and return air ducts. In this system, air is heated in the furnace and moves through ductwork to warm each room. Cool air is then recirculated through return air ducts.

Question 6

A home’s plumbing system does not include

a. compressors.
b. drains.
c. piping
d. valves.

Answer 6

**a. compressors. **

Question 7

____________ pipe is flexible and resistant to bursting if the line freezes.

a. Copper
b. Galvanized
c. PEX
d. PVC

Answer 7

c. PEX

Plumbing requires a system of pipes for water supply and drainage.

PEX A flexible (cross-linked polyethylene) piping that is popular because it is resistant to bursting if the lines freeze. Plumbers can avoid using a lot of elbows and joints (or other connectors) to make more continuous piping runs.

Question 8

Most new construction calls for ________ amp electrical service.

a. 100
b. 110
c. 200
d. 210

Answer 8

c. 200

Question 9

9. Writing that is lightweight and used in high voltage transmission lines is
   a. aluminum
   b. brass
   c. copper
   d. galvanized

Answer 9

a. aluminum

Question 10

10. For home improvement, the General Business Law 36-A states that contractors who do not deposit funds into an escrow account are subject to a civil penalty not to exceed _______per violation or _______ of the contract price.
    a. $100, 5%
    b. $250, 5%
    c. $500, 10%
    d. $1,000, 10%

Answer 10

b. $250, 5%