OBJ 4.6

Question 1

Unit Cost System

Answer 1

Used in programming, this is the cost per square foot based on recent experience of similar project types. It enables estimators to apply cost data accumulated from one building to a different building type, provided the design and performance criteria are similar.

Question 2

Building Subsystem

Answer 2

Used in schematic design, this enables a comparison between different conceptual solutions.

Question 3

Component Cost System

Answer 3

Used in design development, this enables a more precise selection of components and systems.

Question 4

Composite Unit Rates

Answer 4

Used in the construction document phase, these rates are for construction components, assemblies, and systems. They are required for pre-bid estimates, final cost checks, and the contractor’s cost breakdown; they are also used as a basis for verifying the contractor’s payment requests.

Question 5

Parameter Method

Answer 5

Used in the construction documents phase, this involves an expanded itemization of construction quantities and the assignment of unit costs to these quantities. It makes possible the evaluation of cost implications of each building component and allows decision-making concerning both quality and quantity in order to meet the original budget estimate.

Question 6

Matrix Costing

Answer 6

Used in design development, this is a way to compare and evaluate alternative construction components. In this method, a matrix is drawn showing the various alternatives along one side and the individual elements along the other side. These are combined to produce the total cost of the alternatives.

Question 7

Cogeneration

Answer 7

Also called combined heat and power (CHP), this is the simultaneous production of electricity and heat, both of which are used for an individual building, an industrial factory, or a town or city served by district heating and cooling. Through heat utilization, the efficiency of a cogeneration plant can reach 90% or more.

Question 8

Hardscape

Answer 8

The hard landscape materials in the built environment that are incorporated into a landscape. This includes paved areas, driveways, retaining walls, sleeper walls, stairs, walkways, and any other landscaping made up of hard wearing materials such as wood, stone, concrete, etc.

Question 9

__________________ beams, a type of wood beam, can span greater distances and can carry greater loads over longer spans than is possible with solid timbers of the same size.

Answer 9

Glued Laminated Beams.