Construction Technology Flashcards
What RIBA stages cover the design stage?
0- Strategic Definition
1- Preparation and Brief
2- Concept Design
3- Spatial Coordination
4- Technical Design
What are the RIBA Stages
0- Strategic Definition
1- Preparation and Brief
2- Concept Design
3- Spatial Coordination
4- Technical Desing
5- Manufacturing and Construction
6- Handover
7- Use
What is the difference between a cold and warm roof
A warm roof has insulation above the joists and roof deck, a cold roof has insulation between the joists.
In the Connaught Street flat roof project, how did you verify that the specification complied with Approved Document L?
I confirmed the specification included for new provisions for insulation which they had and I confirmed the insulation specified met the U value requirement of 0.18.
How did you assess whether any thermal bridging risks were present in the proposed roof replacement at Connaught Street?
I reviewed the proposed materials and how the insulation and roof covering was due to be fixed to the roof. I noted the intention to use thermoplastic tube washers which would reduce the effect of the thermal bridging caused by the fasteners.
What is thermal bridging?
Thermal bridges, also known as cold bridges, are weak points (or areas) in the building envelope which allow heat to pass through more easily.
Where do thermal bridges commonly occur?
- Where there are regular interruptions in the building fabric such as wall ties
- Where there are gaps in the insulation layer around openings such as windows or doors.
-Where two or three different planes meet such as junctions between the different building elements. - Where there are single penetrations in the thermal envelope of the building and can include fixings or fasteners, brackets for a canopy or in a rainscreen, a flue passing through a wall, or isolated steel beams or columns.
How can you prevent thermal bridges?
-moving or removing the material causing the bridge from the design;
-changing the materials causing the thermal bridge for ones which are less conductive; and
-varying the thickness or placement of insulation.
What type of roof was the roof at Connaught Street ?
A warm roof with bitumen felt covering
When reviewing the contractor’s schedule of works for Connaught Street, what specific construction elements were you focusing on?
The roof build up, thermal capabilities of the new insulations and the roof covering being specified.
What would you require to carry out the installation of a bitumen felt roof?
Hot works permit
What was the roof covering to Connaught Street being replaced with?
A single ply Epdm roof.
What are the benefits of repairing over replacing a roof?
Its cheaper, no requirement to upgrade the insulation should it not meet current regulations and minimal disruption.
Why would you replace a roof over repairing it?
When there is widespread damage, the roof covering is approaching it’s lifespan, the roof is structurally compromised or the insulation has become damaged/ saturated.
What practical challenges did you consider when suggesting a multi-pane rooflight replacement at St James?
I considered the structural engineer’s calculations regarding the loading of the roof and weight of the panes, the cause of the cracking to the glazing pane and the ability to get the new glazing to the roof.
How did the new frame and smaller panes mitigate structural risk at the St James property?
The new frame provided a greater structural support to the panes and the smaller panes weigh less.
What is a U-value, and how does it relate to Approved Document L of the Building Regulations?
A U value measures thermal transmittance and Part L of the Building Regulations dictates what U values different components of a property/ it’s building fabric should meet.
How do the Building Regulations influence the specification of roof materials during refurbishment?
Building Regulations dictate the standards for safety, durability, and energy efficiency, impacting the choice of roof materials.
What construction considerations are involved in installing new roof lights in the Fitzrovia office project?
Considerations include structural integrity and compliance with building regulations.
How did you determine the cause of the roof light breaking was due to the weight of the glazing?
The weight of the glazing was not the sole cause of the roof light cracking however, the lack of support was a contributing factor in addition to the failure of the gas seal to the glazing. The decision to reduce the weight and increase the structural support the glazing addressed both this issues.
What approved documents should you considered regarding the installation of new WCs?
Approved documents B, E, F, G, H, P
How should design decisions adapt to existing period properties, such as at St James?
Design decisions should respect historical features, use compatible materials, and maintain the building’s character.
What are the fire safety implications additional sanitary facilities to an existing office layout?
Implications include ensuring adequate fire exits, compliance with Approved Document B regarding compartmentation and detection and suppressions systems.
What considerations must be made when advising on replacement versus like-for-like upgrades in construction?
Considerations include cost, compliance with current standards, the reason for replacement and the impact on the building’s historical integrity.
