Construction technology Flashcards
What are silver aspects level 1 to 8?
Section 7 Building Regs – Bronze, Bronze Active, Silver, Silver Active, Gold, Platinum
Silveer Aspects
1 - Carbon Dioxide Emissions,
2 - Energy for Space heating,
3 - Energy for Water heating,
4 - Water use efficiency,
5 - Optimising Performance,
6 - Flexibility,
7 - Well being and Security,
8 - Material Use and Waste
Can you tell me any recent changes to Building Regulations?
External wall cladding Technical Handbook 2019 Edition 8 External wall cladding systems to be A1/A2-s1,d0 (non-combustible) Domestic buildings with storey height over 11m - previously 18m Includes balconies and specified attachments Includes thermal wall insulation Irrespective of boundary distance BR 135 assessment and BS 8414 test remains a valid alternative
Can you explain the high-level elements of a timber pitched roof?
Sole plate, Ceiling joists, Truss rafters, Ridge board, Sarking board, Battens, Tiles, Facia board and Soffits
What is the difference between a Cat A and Cat B building?
It is in the finishes. Cat A – basic fit out that may have raised floors, suspended ceilings and M&E services Cat B – generally completes the fit out to the tenants requirements – fit out to kitchens, reception, internal finishes and installation of ICT.
What statutory legislation governs the design of buildings?
The Building Act The Building Regulations
How in your role as a QS to you assist in obtaining BREEAM credits?
Whole life costs
How can construction technology help society achieve net zero carbon emissions?
by utilising more sustainable methods of construction, more sustainable materials, utilisation of local resource to reduce transportation, modern methods of construction can reduce waste
What is the difference between RIBA 2013 and 2020?
The RIBA have added guidance for core tasks and information exchanges against each RIBA stage including advice on procurement strategies They have also changed the name of RIBA Stage 3 from developed design to spatial coordination
Can you talk me through the external wall build up on one of your projects?
Traditional build house in Inverkeithing - consisted of: a facing brick outer leaf 50mm cavity wall ties - at 600mm centres breather membrane 50mm insulation block inner leaf vapour barrier timber battens insulation layer plasterboard lining
Explain to me the make up of the sinusoidal external walls?
110mm Sinusoidal cladding panel fixed to cladding rails which are fixed to the structural frame within the structural frame there was a steel framing system packed with insulation Vapour Control Layer Plywood wall lining 38x50mm service zone formed with timber battens 15mm duraline plasterboard
On your Victoria infirmary project, you state that you advised a Client that there would be a cost and programme saving if you installed a flat roof. How did you go about giving that advice to your Client?
I completed a cost/ benefit analysis on a pitched roof and flat roof option and discussed the results with my client, The flat roof was more economical and easier to construct The flat roof option also added value as the space could be used as outdoor space and a roof terrace for the top floor penthouse apartments which were for private sale I also considered maintenance costs, the flat roof had an expected life span of approximately 20 years where as the pitch roof had an expected life span of 60 years, however the flat roof was easier to maintain due to access and it also had a less surface area
Methods of fire control in a building?
Compartmentalisation, sprinklers, hydrants, smoke alarms, fire alarms, fire rated doors.
What are the differences / benefits of steel vs concrete frames?
Steel frame – quick to erect, flexibility, produced in accordance with manufacturer’s requirements, long spans, 100% recyclable However it can require fire maintenance and requires maintenance as there can be rust if exposed. Concrete – can be poured to suit, uses sustainable materials in the aggregate, low maintenance and is fire protected however it can be quite heavy and takes a while to cure.
Name four different foundation solutions commonly used in construction.
Strip foundation, pad foundation, raft foundation and piled foundations. You would determine which to use through a site investigation by determining the soil type and what foundation is suitable, it would also depend on the load to be placed on top of the foundation.
What are the different types of piling and when would you expect each of them to be used?
Displacement (or precaution driven piles) and replacement piles (such as CFA piles) heavy loads for both, however displacement piles can’t be used in close proximity to existing building due to the vibration in the ground which can damage the existing structures.