SPD - Practice Test

Question 1

When would the following cost estimation occur: Estimate based on the major elements of each building system (i.e. structure, MEP)?

a. Schematic Design Phase
b. Construction Documents Phase
c. Bidding/Negotiation Phase
d. Design Development Phase

Answer 1

Schematic Design

Notes:
During the Schematic Design Phase, a more generalized estimate would be prepared based on the major elements of the building. As the building elements become further identified during the process, the estimate will also be updated during the other phases.

Question 2

What is the name of the zoning measure that allows a building to deviate from some portion of a zoning code?

a. Variance
b. Conditional Use Permit
c. Non-Conforming Use Permit
d. A “Grandfather clause”

Answer 2

Variance

Notes:
A variance is a request to deviate from some of the requirements of zoning (maximum height, minimum setbacks, etc.), because complying with these requirements would create financial hardship or practical construction challenges.

Question 3

How can ground slope affect the cost of a project?

a. Relatively flat sites require less grading and excavation, greatly reducing foundation costs and complexity.
b. Sloping sites allow for adequate water drainage and will accommodate almost any foundation type.
c. Ground slope has a very minimal affect on the cost of a project.
d. A steeply sloping site, such as a hilltop, offers excellent views and airflow.

Answer 3

Relatively flat sites require less grading and excavation, greatly reducing foundation costs and complexity.

Notes:
The slope of the site also determines the amount of rainwater that can be absorbed by the soil, the areas appropriate for driveways or parking and the access to natural light and views.

Question 4

What interior materials should you specify to help improve indoor air quality?

a. Products that are sustainability harvested
b. Products with low VOCs
c. Products that utilize compact fluorescent lighting and dimmer controls
d. Products that are rated green by LEED

Answer 4

Products with low VOCs

Notes:
Using interior materials with low or no VOCs (volatile organic compounds) will help maintain the air quality within the building. The materials most susceptible to offgassing VOCs include paint, carpet, adhesives in cabinetry and wood work and upholstery.

Question 5

What is considered the “comfort zone” in terms of temperature and humidity?

a. 50-61 degrees in the winter and 80-85 degrees in the summer; 40-50% relative humidity.
b. 60-68 degrees in the winter and 70-85 degrees in the summer; 50-80% relative humidity.
c. 63-71 degrees in winter and 66-75 degrees in the summer; 30-60% relative humidity.
d. 70-85 degrees in the winter and 60-68 degrees in the summer; 80-85% relative humidity.

Answer 5

63-71 degrees in winter and 66-75 degrees in the summer; 30-60% relative humidity.

Notes:
Temperature - comfort zone ranges between 63-71 degrees in winter and 66-75 degrees in the summer. Humidity - comfort zone ranges between 30-60% relative humidity.

Question 6

Which of the following is a written agreement that put specific limitations or restrictions on a property?

a. Easement
b. Deed of Trust
c. Cooperative
d. Covenant

Answer 6

Covenant

Notes:
Covenants are written agreements or a promise under seal between two or more parties for the performance of some specific action or restriction. The purpose of a covenant is to protect the aesthetics or amenities of the property for the life of the deed.

Question 7

When would a pile or caisson foundation be necessary?

a. The site has soils with poor bearing capacity.
b. The site has soils with good bearing capacity.
c. The site has hard rock located near the surface.
d. The site is located at a high elevation.

Answer 7

The site has soils with poor bearing capacity.

Notes:
A pile or caisson may be necessary for a site containing silts or clays in the soil may require this foundation type in order to reach bearing soils.

Question 8

Define Microclimate.

a. Refers to the specific local conditions of the site.
b. Refers to the general climate of the overall region
c. Refers to the climate of the northern or southern hemisphere.
d. Refers to the comfort level within a building.

Answer 8

Refers to the specific local conditions of the site.

Notes:
A Microclimate refers to the specific local conditions of the site. It’s affected by the vegetation, elevation, slope, water, wind, solar exposure and any man-made structures.

Question 9

Which typical density is common for a European town?

a. 10 people per acre
b. 20 people per acre
c. 2 people per acre
d. 30 people per acre

Answer 9

30 people per acre

Notes:
Typical European town: 30 people per acre

Question 10

How does nature play a role in the development of site and building design?

a. Natural features of a site should be ignored in order to best produce a beautiful and functioning building.
b. Any sites containing natural features should be avoided; reusing existing sites is preferred.
c. Embracing the natural features of a site help to limit the disturbance of it.
d. Nature is perfectly symmetrical and should influence a building to be the same.

Answer 10

Embracing the natural features of a site help to limit the disturbance of it.

Notes:
Nature provides forms that respond perfectly to their function and surroundings. Forms in nature are both perfectly symmetrical and completely asymmetrical.

Question 11

What is cut and fill?

a. A construction method to patch areas of repair.
b. Refers to regrading a sloping site in order to create a level area for a building foundation.
c. The only restoration method allowed on some historic sites.
d. A stepped foundation down a steep site.

Answer 11

Refers to regrading a sloping site in order to create a level area for a building foundation.

Notes:
Cut and fill refers to regrading a sloping site in order to create a level area for a building foundation. If required, the amount of cutting should approximately equal the amount of fill.

Question 12

Which of the following is NOT an obstacle in adaptive reuse?

a. The building may need an addition or replacement.
b. The building may contain asbestos or lead paint.
c. The existing building may be damaged beyond repair.
d. The building may be difficult or expensive to bring up to code.

Answer 12

The building may need an addition or replacement.

Notes:
The three items that are amenable to adaptive reuse include: Damage to the existing building, Hazardous Materials and Code compliance.

Question 13

What US city has adopted and uses its own building code?

a. Washington DC
b. New York, NY
c. Los Angeles, CA
d. Chicago, IL

Answer 13

Chicago, IL

Notes:
The City of Chicago remains the only municipality in the US that continues to use a building code they developed on their own (Municipal Code of Chicago).

Question 14

What does it mean if a project is “fast tracked”?

a. Project gets through plan check approval faster due to completeness of drawings.
b. The project must be completed before new changes to the code are implemented.
c. Contractor is given an incentive to finish the job under a shorter schedule.
d. Project is phased and enters construction faster than a traditional schedule.

Answer 14

Project is phased and enters construction faster than a traditional schedule.

Notes:
Also called accelerated or telescoped. CD’s are issued in phases. Requires coordination and precludes against major design revisions. Requires staged bidding – may get many contractors and therefore makes it hard to get a fixed price early on. Usually needs a CM to oversee.

Question 15

Which of the following is NOT an example of a building embracing the site?

a. Roof could mimic the surrounding mountains, or draw colors from the landscape.
b. Use of piers could elevate the building so that it can be seen from a distance.
c. Form could draw inspiration from the surrounding trees, landscape and vegetation.
d. Location of windows determined by local climate.

Answer 15

Use of piers could elevate the building so that it can be seen from a distance.

Notes:
There should be a relationship between the site and its’ buildings. A strong site may require buildings that blend into the landscape. The forms of building should be inspired by the forms of the site. The roof might mimic the surrounding mountains, or draw colors from the landscape.

Question 16

What is the difference between Net Density and Gross Density?

a. Net Density is the best way to describe the density of a site.
b. Net Density includes streets while Gross Density does not.
c. Net Density and Gross Density essentially describe the same thing.
d. Net Density does not include streets while Gross Density includes everything such as streets, open spaces, and parks.

Answer 16

Net Density does not include streets while Gross Density includes everything such as streets, open spaces, and parks.

Notes:
Net Density: this is the ratio of people to the land, but excludes the streets, which could total as much as 25 percent of the overall site. Gross Density: this is the ratio of people to land, but includes everything, such as the streets, open spaces and parks. Since it is more accurate, gross density is found to be more useful in describing the density of the site.

Question 17

Which of the following will NOT reduce noise transmission into a building?

a. Sound attenuating insulation within the walls
b. Hanging materials or equipment on isolation device
c. Placing sound absorbers between materials
d. Spacing the structural studs at greater distances.

Answer 17

Spacing the structural studs at greater distances.

Notes:
In order to reduce noise intrusion into a building, placing the studs closer together rather than further apart would be a better option.

Question 18

Which items are NOT included on a topographic survey?

a. Site datum point
b. Existing topography
c. Proposed slab plan dimensions
d. Existing site features

Answer 18

Proposed slab plan dimensions

Notes:
Topographic survey: uses dashed lines to indicate the topography and elevation above a set base point (called a datum) or above sea level.

Question 19

Describe the comparison method of land valuation.

a. Compares several properties that have sold within the last year in different regions
b. Compares what a property has sold for historically with local market trends
c. Compares national averages of property values
d. Compares nearby properties that have sold recently

Answer 19

Compares nearby properties that have sold recently

Notes:
Comparison method or market data approach: comparing a similar nearby parcel of land sold recently.

Question 20

Which of the following helps protect against moisture intrusion by use of coatings on the foundation wall?

a. Membranes
b. Bituminous coatings
c. Admixtures
d. Cementitious coatings

Answer 20

Bituminous coatings

Notes:
Bituminous coatings - asphalt or coal-tar pitch materials applied to exterior side of foundation wall.

Question 21

Which slope is considered moderate and suited for some uses, but not all?

a. 4%
b. 12%
c. 8%
d. 15%

Answer 21

8%

Notes:
4% - 10% is moderate and requires some effort to climb or descend.

Question 22

Which would be a site consideration in regards to architectural design?

a. The design should stand out from the site instead of embracing it.
b. The design should be placed in the landscape to be hidden, conversely, views of the surrounding landscape should be visible from the building.
c. The design should respond to the natural characteristics of the site: its form, climate, solar orientation, natural vegetation, and existing structures.
d. The design does not require an appropriate relationship between the structure and its site.

Answer 22

The design should respond to the natural characteristics of the site: its form, climate, solar orientation, natural vegetation, and existing structures.

Notes:
The design should be placed in the landscape to be seen, conversely, views of the surrounding landscape should be visible from the building.

Question 23

Which of the following is NOT a way that proper building siting can affect the views of the project?

a. Creates an axis to draw your eyes toward the view and enclose the outdoor space.
b. Undesirable views can be avoided by locating service or utility spaces to face or block them.
c. Desirable views can be capitalized with ample window usage.
d. Use of skylights instead of windows will allow in light and block views.

Answer 23

Use of skylights instead of windows will allow in light and block views.

Notes:
Buildings can also be sited to create an axis to draw your eyes toward the view and enclose the outdoor space. Undesirable views can be avoided by locating service or utility spaces to face or block them.

Question 24

What is the best way to provide internal comfort in a building during a hot, summer day?

a. Use skylights instead of traditional windows.
b. Overhangs on the west and south facing windows.
c. Louvers on the east side of the building.
d. Clearstory windows on the north side of the building.

Answer 24

Overhangs on the west and south facing windows.

Notes:
Use large overhangs to shade the house from the southern and western sun for most of the day.

Question 25

What is a test boring and why is it performed?

a. A test boring is used to determine if poured concrete has met it’s maximum bearing strength.
b. A test boring will determine the types of soils on a site as well as its relative bearing capacity.
c. A test boring is used on an existing structure to find out if any damage has occurred beneath the surface.
d. A test boring calculates the loads the foundation will need to support once the building is complete.

Answer 25

A test boring will determine the types of soils on a site as well as its relative bearing capacity.

Notes:
The four main types of test borings are wash borings (using high pressure water), auger borings (using drills), core borings (to gather layers of soils) and test pits (to see layers of soils).

Question 26

What was the purpose of the City Beautiful Movement?

a. Create each building within a city to be a work of art.
b. Integrate the design of landscaping with streets and buildings.
c. Begin a list of the most beautiful cities in the country.
d. Reduce pollution and littering within modern cities.

Answer 26

Integrate the design of landscaping with streets and buildings.

Notes:
The purpose behind the City Beautiful Movement also included the desire to create a complete and comprehensive design as well as begin a movement towards modern city planning.

Question 27

Which of the following is NOT one of the four different levels of soil?

a. Level C - Weathered and fractured rock with little biological activity.
b. Level A - Topsoil, essential for growth of plants and takes a long time to develop.
c. Level D - Solid sandstone.
d. Level B - Minerals, lies below the plants roots and supports life.

Answer 27

Level D - Solid sandstone.

Notes:
The fourth soil level is actually Level D - Solid bedrock.

Question 28

Why is the location of the frost line important?

a. The frost line indicates the typical snow level for high elevations, such as mountains.
b. The frost line determines the lowest point the foundation can reach safely.
c. The frost line indicates the top of the water table.
d. The frost line indicates the level where soil freezes.

Answer 28

The frost line indicates the level where soil freezes.

Notes:
The top of footings should be at or below the frost line, which avoids damage to the foundation due to moisture changes throughout the year.

Question 29

Why is lead based paint considered a hazardous material if discovered in a building?

a. It can cause neurological disorders and birth defects.
b. It can cause lead to enter the water supply, making it unsafe to drink.
c. It can cause knee problems if inhaled.
d. It can cause severe digestion issues.

Answer 29

It can cause neurological disorders and birth defects.

Notes:
The dust and loose chips from lead paint are especially dangerous to children and pregnant women, who touch the window sill and absorb the lead directly through their fingers and by touching their mouth.

Question 30

What is alluvium?

a. Soft soil containing decomposed organic matter; has poor bearing capacity.
b. Soil that has been deposited on a site by the movement of water, such as runoff.
c. Very rich soil comprised of equal amounts of sand, silt and clay.
d. A material similar to aluminum.

Answer 30

Soil that has been deposited on a site by the movement of water, such as runoff.

Notes:
Alluvium is a common runoff deposit and in general is not desirable for foundation placement.

Question 31

What is an Arterial street?

a. Allows large volumes of traffic to move quickly between, around, or through urban centers.
b. Provide access to low intensity uses in front of them.
c. Also known as highways, they are continuous channels that connect with freeways (at the exits).
d. Serve as transitional channels between local access to a neighborhood and main roads.

Answer 31

Also known as highways, they are continuous channels that connect with freeways (at the exits).

Notes:
In most modern cities, arterial streets are the main boulevards running through the city.

Question 32

Which item in a project development budget generally requires the most funds?

a. Construction costs (site grading, building construction)
b. Site acquisition (land fees, insurance)
c. Contingencies (before and during construction)
d. Professional services (architects, engineers)

Answer 32

Construction costs (site grading, building construction)

Notes:
Cost of construction generally consumes the majority of the project budget and should be funded adequately.

Question 33

What happens if you increase the density of the units on the site, which will enable them to share utilities and roadways?

a. Decreases the site density to create fewer buildings and more landscaping.
b. Reduces the building’s reliance on electricity.
c. You must hire a geologist to determine the best foundation for the site.
d. The cost of site development and improvement for a project is lowered.

Answer 33

The cost of site development and improvement for a project is lowered.

Notes:
By increasing the density of the units on the site, you lower the individual construction costs for each unit. The shared walls, utilities, sewer system, parking and roadways save the cost of providing that for each unit.

Question 34

Which of the following describes a Joint Tenancy land ownership?

a. Land is owned by a group of people. Upon a death of one of the partners, the partnership may be dissolved and assets distributed among surviving partners and the estate of the deceased partner.
b. A type of ownership that holds property in the one person’s name for the benefit of another person or group he represents.
c. A legal entity with rights and liability independent of those of its shareholders.
d. Two or more people, each holding an undivided interest and each owner has a share in the ownership of the whole.

Answer 34

Two or more people, each holding an undivided interest and each owner has a share in the ownership of the whole.

Notes:
Joint tenancy: two or more people, each holding an undivided interest (meaning the land is not physically divided into individual pieces, but rather each owner has a share in the ownership of the whole).

Question 35

Define Urban Renewal.

a. Federally funded programs, these are a type of Planned Unit Development involving rehabilitating an existing (often urban) property.
b. A government program to renew the appearance of urban cities by upgrading the facades of existing buildings.
c. A new development on a vacant piece of land that offers new amenities to an area.
d. A PUD which consists of bringing urban concepts into suburban neighborhoods.

Answer 35

Federally funded programs, these are a type of Planned Unit Development involving rehabilitating an existing (often urban) property.

Notes:

Urban Redevelopment / Urban Renewal: referring to federally funded programs, these are a type of Planned Unit Development involving rehabilitating an existing (often urban) property. A PUD typically refers to a new development. Redevelopment (or renewal) refers to improving an existing area to bring density, diversity and a mix of uses. Such projects have received increasing interest in recent years due to an overabundance of suburban sprawl and a desire by people to return to cities.

Question 36

How does the Neighborhood Unit differ from the Neighborhood Theory?

a. Maximum walking distance is 1/2 mile.
b. The neighborhood should occupy 160 acres at 10 families per acre.
c. Many neighborhoods can be grouped together to form larger communities.
d. There is no difference; they are the same.

Answer 36

Many neighborhoods can be grouped together to form larger communities.

Notes:
Other features included: Three neighborhoods grouped together to serve one high school and the maximum walking distance is one mile.

Question 37

What conditions could occur if a high water table is found in a cold climate?

a. The foundation could separate from the soil as the water table freezes.
b. The water table could expand and cause the building to collapse.
c. The water table could freeze and cause the foundation to slip.
d. The wrong type of foundation could crack or settle if the water table freezes and pushes it upward.

Answer 37

The wrong type of foundation could crack or settle if the water table freezes and pushes it upward.

Notes:
High water tables in cold climates are especially problematic since water expands as it freezes. The wrong type of foundation could crack or settle if the water table freezes and pushes it upward.

Question 38

What term refers to a site that contains a building built prior to the current zoning code that is allowed to remain in use?

a. Variance
b. Non-Conforming Use
c. Ordinance
d. Conditional Use

Answer 38

Non-Conforming Use

Notes:
A prudent zoning code should allow for buildings that may have been permitted or allowed when built, but now no longer comply with the current zoning regulations. This is called a “nonconforming use” and is often described as a building being “grandfathered in.”

Question 39

In zoning terms, what is the purpose of building setbacks?

a. To keep buildings separated from one another
b. To allow access to light and air
c. To control the maximum size of a building on a site
d. To allow green space between buildings

Answer 39

To allow access to light and air

Notes:
Setbacks are standards that the building “sets back” from the property line by a certain amount.

Question 40

Other than providing electricity, what other use of solar energy is the most efficient in a building?

a. Providing heat for a water heater
b. Providing heat during the winter
c. Solar panels for electricity is the best use of solar energy
d. Providing electricity to transfer back to the main grid

Answer 40

Providing heat for a water heater

Notes:
A solar water heater uses the warmth of the sunlight to directly heat the water.

Question 41

Which of the following is NOT reviewed during the Entitlement Phase?

a. Local Ordinances
b. Zoning Codes
c. Construction Details
d. Environmental Regulations

Answer 41

Construction Details

Notes:
Drawings are submitted to the local Planning Department and are usually in some kind of stage of Design Development with enough information to illustrate the size and scope of the project.

Question 42

Select the most true statement in regards to how building orientation can affect natural daylighting?

a. West facing windows do not need shading treatment
b. East facing windows will receive the most day light
c. South facing windows should be shaded
d. North facing windows must be shaded

Answer 42

South facing windows should be shaded

Notes:
Windows facing north will not get any direct sunlight, whereas windows facing south will receive a lot of sunlight year round.

Question 43

What is a proctor test?

a. A test used to calculate the maximum density that is required for the soil on a project site.
b. A test used to evaluate the rate at which soil will absorb water on a site.
c. A test used to calculate the greatest FAR allowed on a site.
d. A test used to determine which foundation will be best suited for the site.

Answer 43

A test used to calculate the maximum density that is required for the soil on a project site.

Notes:
A Proctor Test evaluates the native soils in both dry and wet conditions to determine the potential negative qualities of the soil. It is performed by dropping a hammer on a sample of soil several times and then dried for a period of time.

Question 44

Which of the following is NOT an example of how “smart landscaping” can help act as a natural heat buffer on a site?

a. Trees and vegetation absorb sunlight and add humidity to the air.
b. Trees can help screen and direct winds on the site.
c. Planted areas are cooler during hot summer days.
d. Using drought tolerant landscaping can help reduce water usage on a site.

Answer 44

Using drought tolerant landscaping can help reduce water usage on a site.

Notes:
Using drought tolerant landscaping is smart in that it reduces water consumption, however it has no effect on reducing heat on a site.

Question 45

What question would be asked at the beginning of a Life Cycle Analysis to determine origins of building elements?

a. How is the material delivered and installed?
b. What are the by-products of its’ manufacturer?
c. How is the material maintained & operated?
d. Where did this material come from?

Answer 45

Where did this material come from?

Notes:
Other questions to ask when performing a Life Cycle Analysis: What are the by-products of its’ manufacturer? How is the material delivered and installed? How is the material maintained & operated? How healthy are the materials? What do we do with them once we are done with these materials?

Question 46

What percentage of construction costs are usually dedicated to the foundation system?

a. 15-20%
b. 5-10%
c. 0-5%
d. 25-30%

Answer 46

5-10%

Notes:
Foundation costs typically average about 5-10% of the total construction costs for flat sites. Foundation costs for hilly or sloped sites can be as much as 25-35% or more.

Question 47

Which of the following would be considered a deciduous tree?

a. Douglas Fir
b. Pine
c. Spruce
d. Eucalyptus

Answer 47

Eucalyptus

Notes:
Deciduous species include maples, elms, oaks and sycamores.

Question 48

What is an Exit Access?

a. The route between the exit door and a safe public way.
b. A door that directly leads to a stair or outdoor area.
c. Direct access to a public way.
d. Distance a building occupant would need to travel to reach an exit.

Answer 48

Distance a building occupant would need to travel to reach an exit.

Notes:
The Exit Access is restricted by the code based on building type and number of exits provided as well as if automatic sprinklers are utilized.

Question 49

What behavioral patterns could you study and identify in order to determine the needs of a building?

a. Construction budget and schedule
b. Circulation requirements & Site Access; Spatial requirements based on necessary tasks.
c. Zoning requirements
d. Traffic patterns around the site; location of major airports or railways.

Answer 49

Circulation requirements & Site Access; Spatial requirements based on necessary tasks.

Notes:
Spatial requirements needed to do a certain task (i.e.: size of a classroom for 30 kids). Circulation requirements & Site Access (from vehicles, pedestrians, utilities)

Question 50

What process is used in order to clean up a brownfield site?

a. Mitigated mediation
b. Remediation
c. Mediation
d. Arbitration

Answer 50

Remediation

Notes:
In order to reuse a brownfield, the hazardous waste and pollution must be removed and cleaned up through a process called remediation.

Question 51

Define ordinance.

a. A municipal law that overrides a standard building code.
b. A recent change in the building code that must be addressed in the plans.
c. A municipal law in addition to a standard building code.
d. A written regulation from the planning department imposing certain restrictions on the project.

Answer 51

A municipal law in addition to a standard building code.

Notes:
Cities can adopt ordinances so long as they do not violate current building codes.

Question 52

Which of the following issues can be caused by hydrostatic pressure?

a. Site erosion
b. Foundation leaks
c. Soil compaction
d. Reduction in bearing capacity

Answer 52

Foundation Leaks

Notes:
For a retaining wall, any groundwater behind the wall that is not dissipated by a drainage system can cause hydrostatic pressure on the wall.

Question 53

What is a Performance Code?

a. A strict code that requires complex simulations to demonstrate compliance
b. A code that requires the building to withstand certain performance criteria in order to gain compliance
c. A less formal code that allows the architect creativity in meeting the requirements
d. A code that requires minimum performance standards by the building after several years in operation

Answer 53

A less formal code that allows the architect creativity in meeting the requirements

Notes:
A Performance Code is one that describes functional requirements that meet a certain standard, allowing the architect to find ways to meet those standards.

Question 54

Which exterior material will be most susceptible to deterioration from the elements?

a. Vinyl trellis
b. Wood fencing
c. Aluminum siding
d. Asphalt shingles

Answer 54

Wood fencing

Notes:
Material selection should consider how well the material can withstand the elements (sun, wind, rain, etc.). Natural materials, such as wood, deteriorate much faster than manufactured materials.

Question 55

Which is the correct definition of a “non-conditional use” permit?

a. There are no deed conditions or liens currently existing on a property.
b. Grants you the ability to use a building for your proposed use, even though the zoning code normally would not allow it.
c. A building is allowed to remain in it’s current use even though zoning codes have changed.
d. Allows a building to not comply with the local zoning code.

Answer 55

Grants you the ability to use a building for your proposed use, even though the zoning code normally would not allow it.

Notes:
If you wish to build or use a building for a purpose not granted in the zoning code, you can apply for a “non-conditional use” permit. This grants you the ability to use the building for your proposed use, even though the zoning code normally would not allow it. This use is typically granted with certain restrictions and may not be transferable to a new owner.

Question 56

Define meridians.

a. Latitudinal lines running East – West.
b. Longitudinal lines South of the equator.
c. Longitudinal lines running North – South.
d. Latitudinal lines North of the equator.

Answer 56

Longitudinal lines running North – South.

Notes:
Longitudinal lines running North – South are called “meridians.” Lines between these are called range lines.

Question 57

What site issues will be affected by the zoning code?

a. Any required setbacks from property lines, rights-of-way, streets and sidewalks.
b. Enclosed stairways as a means of egress.
c. Construction Type.
d. Number of restrooms required in building.

Answer 57

Any required setbacks from property lines, rights-of-way, streets and sidewalks.

Notes:
The zoning code also prescribes building height limitations as well as site usage (residential, commercial, etc.)

Question 58

Why would an owner want to implement Value Engineering into a project?

a. Identifies the most economical engineering professionals to use for the project.
b. Increases cost of the project by implementing new technologies.
c. Adds value to the project by enhancing the engineered portions of the building.
d. Identifies potential areas of unnecessary expenditures.

Answer 58

Identifies potential areas of unnecessary expenditures.

Notes:
Value engineering (VE) is a method to improve the "value" of products and services by either improving the function or reducing the cost. In most cases this practice identifies and removes unnecessary expenditures, thereby increasing the value for the owner.

Question 59

During which phase are design documents reviewed and approved?

a. Design Development Phase
b. 1st Plan Check Submittal
c. Construction Documents Phase
d. Entitlement Phase

Answer 59

Entitlement Phase

Notes:
In this phase, we are trying to obtain permission/approval for our project prior to producing construction documents.

Question 60

What parking configuration is the most economical?

a. Parallel parking
b. 30 degree angled parking
c. 90 degree perpendicular parking
d. Tandem parking

Answer 60

30 degree angled parking

Notes:
Angled parking at 30 degrees is most economical because stall projection is smaller (about 15’-6” verses 18’ of 90 degrees). However, it requires greater curb length and triangular space at end is wasted.

Question 61

Define Albedo.

a. A measure of the reflectivity of a material.
b. A measure of a material’s ability to transmit light.
c. A measure of the ability of a material to absorb light.
d. A measure of a material’s ability to transmit heat.

Answer 61

A measure of the reflectivity of a material.

Notes:
Albedo is a measure of the reflectivity of a material. Snow has a high albedo (blinding light) while grass has a low albedo.

Question 62

What is “rainwater harvesting”?

a. Transfer of rainwater to local rivers and lakes
b. Collection of rainwater from roofs and yards
c. Transfer of rainwater to local filtration plants
d. Collection of rainwater from storm sewers

Answer 62

Collection of rainwater from roofs and yards

Notes:
Rainwater harvesting is the process of collecting the water that falls on your roof or yard. That water is filtered and stored for later use to irrigate the landscape or flush the toilets.

Question 63

Which of the following intersections is the easiest to design and to use?

a. 90 degree perpendicular intersections
b. Grade separations, including the cloverleaf and diamond intersection
c. Offset intersections
d. Acute angles (less than 80 degrees) intersections

Answer 63

90 degree perpendicular intersections

Notes:
The other intersection types make seeing cross traffic difficult and can lead to driver confusion.

Question 64

Which of the following is NOT a method to incorporate passive cooling into a building?

a. Utilize the “stack effect” to vent heat up and out of a space and allow cool air to enter below.
b. Seal all leaks in the building and provide a very efficient duct system.
c. Arrange windows to encourage wind flow through the space and allow ample ventilation.
d. Incorporate louvers and overhangs on windows to block direct sunlight.

Answer 64

Seal all leaks in the building and provide a very efficient duct system.

Notes:
Passive cooling refers to avoiding the use of mechanical systems in order to provide temperature comfort within a building.

Question 65

What site would be best suited for a mat slab or pile foundation?

a. A steep site.
b. A site with a high water table.
c. A flat site.
d. A site near a body of water.

Answer 65

A site with a high water table.

Notes:
If the water table is located less than 6’ below the surface, this is considered high and will limit foundation design. A mat slab or pile foundation may be necessary in order to evenly distribute the loads of the building on site.

Question 66

What density is required in order to support a public transit system?

a. 10 persons per acre
b. 100 persons per acre
c. 50 persons per acre
d. 30 persons per acre

Answer 66

30 persons per acre

Notes:
Collective Transit System needs at least a population density of 30 persons per acre.

Question 67

Define balance in terms of elevation design.

a. The building is the same in height as well as width.
b. Describes a mirroring of architectural elements on each side of a central axis.
c. Architectural features on each side of the building are of equal weights to evenly distribute concentrated loads.
d. Describes an even or harmonious distribution of elements, either static or dynamic, not necessary evenly spaced.

Answer 67

Describes an even or harmonious distribution of elements, either static or dynamic, not necessary evenly spaced.

Notes:
Balance describes when something has an even or harmonious distribution of elements; it can be static, such as when you have a row of columns of all the same size, or dynamic, as when you have a large window on the left side that is balanced by several smaller windows on the right side.

Question 68

How can natural daylight be incorporated into a building design?

a. Natural daylighting should be reduced in order to control the internal temperature of the space.
b. Position most windows on the south façade.
c. Space small windows along the north face of the building to avoid direct sunlight.
d. Locate all building windows under large overhangs to reduce glare.

Answer 68

Position most windows on the south façade.

Notes:
Natural sunlight contains the full spectrum of the visible light our eyes can see, and therefore, is considered the best type of light to use within your building.

Question 69

What type of development requires the infrastructure to be more spread out, is often less efficient and therefore more expensive?

a. Low Density
b. High Density
c. Zero Density
d. Mixed Density

Answer 69

Low Density

Notes:
Density affects the cost of the development. Low density planning requires the infrastructure to be more spread out, less efficient and, therefore, more expensive. The number of people served by each foot of sewer pipe, utility line, roadway and street lamp is much lower, demanding more expense.

Question 70

Which of the following is an ownership where one party sells to another and then rents the property from the buyer?

a. Cooperative
b. Sale-and-leaseback
c. Condominium
d. Fee simple or Fee absolute

Answer 70

Sale-and-leaseback

Notes:
Sale-and-leaseback: an arrangement in which one party sells a property to a buyer and the buyer immediately leases the property back to the seller.

Question 71

What is the maximum slope allowed for an accessible ramp?

a. 1:08
b. 1:12
c. 1:10
d. 1:15

Answer 71

1:12

Notes:
Handicapped ramp slopes must be a 1:12 slope (1’ rise for every 12’ run). 1/12 (100) = 8.3% slope

Question 72

Describe liquefaction.

a. Water has penetrated the foundation walls and caused structural damage.
b. Concrete when still in a liquid state.
c. Soils have come loose and act in a liquid state.
d. Water has seeped under the foundation and is causing the building to sink.

Answer 72

Soils have come loose and act in a liquid state.

Notes:
Earthquakes are often triggers of liquefaction and can result in landslides and serious damage.

Question 73

Define Conductivity.

a. A measure of a material’s ability to transmit heat.
b. A measure of the reflectivity of a material.
c. A measure of the ability of a material to absorb light.
d. A measure of a material’s ability to transmit light.

Answer 73

A measure of the ability of a material to absorb light.

Notes:
Conductivity refers to a material’s ability to absorb light. Grassy areas have low albedo levels and high conductivity. Paved areas have high albedo and low conductivity thus are often warmer than grassy areas.

Question 74

How should the performance of materials be considered during the design phase?

a. Materials should be selected with the final aesthetic in mind.
b. Materials should be expected to be replaced within the first few years.
c. Materials should be quantified with a minimum 30 year warranty.
d. Materials should be tested to assure they will perform as expected and designed.

Answer 74

Materials should be tested to assure they will perform as expected and designed.

Notes:
The life span of the material should be evaluated to make sure it will withstand normal wear and tear.

Question 75

Which of the following land valuation methods estimates potential income from site improvements?

a. Allocation Method
b. Development Method
c. Residual Method
d. Comparison Method

Answer 75

Residual Method

Notes:
Residual method or income approach method: value can be determined by estimating the potential income from site improvements.

Question 76

What term describes the following: used to distribute the weight of the building directly to the soil?

a. Tapered Footing
b. Chamfered footing
c. Wide footing
d. Spread Footing

Answer 76

Spread Footing

Notes:
The size of the footing is determined by dividing the load by the safe bearing capacity.

Question 77

Which soil type tends to swell when frozen?

a. Clay - plastic when wet, stiff when dry.
b. Sand - drains well, good foundation when graded.
c. Gravel - drains well, able to bear loads.
d. Silt - stable when dry or damp, not wet.

Answer 77

Silt - stable when dry or damp, not wet.

Notes:
Silt tends to swell when frozen due to its ability to hold a high water content.

Question 78

How much area per car should you allocate when designing a parking lot?

a. 500 square feet
b. 400 square feet
c. 600 square feet
d. 300 square feet

Answer 78

400 square feet

Notes:
Parking spaces are estimated as 400 sq. ft. per vehicle, this includes 270 square feet of actual required foot print and additional circulation.

Question 79

What is humus?

a. Soils that have been deposited on a site by the movement of water.
b. A delicious Mediterranean spread.
c. Very rich soil containing equal amounts of sand, silt and clay.
d. Soft soil which is comprised of decomposed organic matter.

Answer 79

Soft soil which is comprised of decomposed organic matter.

Notes:
Humus is made up of decomposing organic matter. Though this would make a wonderful garden soil, it has very poor bearing capacity for a building foundation.

Question 80

What term allows you to build outside of the zoning code?

a. Option
b. Building allowance
c. Conditional Use Permit
d. Non-conforming Use

Answer 80

Conditional Use Permit

Notes:
If you wish to build or use a building for a purpose not granted in the zoning code, you can apply for a “conditional use” permit. This grants you the ability to use the building for your proposed use, even though the zoning code normally would not allow it.

Question 81

What does the term “non-conforming use” mean in relation to the design of a site?

a. The site contains hazardous materials that are no longer in use and must be removed.
b. The site contains a building or structure built prior to the current zoning code and may remain in use.
c. The site does not comply to current zoning and building codes and cannot be built on.
d. The site contains a building or structure built prior to the current zoning code and must be removed.

Answer 81

The site contains a building or structure built prior to the current zoning code and may remain in use.

Notes:
Any prudent zoning code should allow for buildings that may have been permitted or allowed when built, but now no longer comply with the current zoning regulations. This is called a “nonconforming use” and is often described as a building being “grandfathered in.”

Question 82

Which of the following issue is NOT caused by hydrostatic pressure?

a. Wood deterioration
b. Mold and mildew growth
c. Soil compaction
d. Foundation leaks

Answer 82

Soil compaction

Notes:
For a retaining wall, any groundwater behind the wall that is not dissipated by a drainage system causes hydrostatic pressure on the wall.

Question 83

Which of the following describes a typical treatment for a North-facing window?

a. Shade with trees
b. Provide clerestories for indirect light
c. Shade with overhangs
d. Protect with louvers

Answer 83

Provide clerestories for indirect light

Notes:
North-facing windows will not get any direct light but will provide an even glow from reflected light all day.

Question 84

In architectural terms, define style.

a. The style the architect is trying to evoke in the design.
b. A set of repeating and identifiable elements in a design.
c. A recognizable style by a certain architect, such as Frank Gehry.
d. The style in which a building is designed (i.e. Gothic, Craftsman)

Answer 84

A set of repeating and identifiable elements in a design.

Notes:
In architecture, style is defined as a set of repeating and identifiable elements in a design.

Question 85

Which of the following is NOT a method to mitigate the discovery of hazardous materials on a site?

a. Encapsulate and permanently seal the material on the site per federal, state, and local guidelines.
b. Remove the hazardous material from the site and properly disposing per federal, state, and local guidelines.
c. Choose a different site without hazardous materials present.
d. Transport the hazardous material to a local landfill.

Answer 85

Transport the hazardous material to a local landfill.

Notes:
Removing hazardous material from the site and properly disposing per federal, state, and local guidelines or encapsulating and permanently sealing the material on the site per federal, state, and local guidelines are the two approved methods for mitigating hazardous materials.

Question 86

Which soil would have the greatest angle of repose?

a. Coarse gravel
b. Organic peat
c. Silt or clay
d. Fine sand

Answer 86

Coarse gravel

Notes:
The Angle of Repose describes how soils form mounds when loose. Sand and gravel are stiff soils and will have steeper angles of repose as compared to soft silts and clays.

Question 87

Define safe bearing capacity.

a. The Safe Bearing Capacity is the ultimate bearing capacity of the foundation divided by a safety factor of 2 to 4 times.
b. The Safe Bearing Capacity is the ultimate bearing capacity of the soil divided by a safety factor of 2 to 4 times.
c. The Safe Bearing Capacity is the minimum bearing capacity of the soil.
d. The Safe Bearing Capacity is the ultimate bearing capacity of the soil.

Answer 87

The Safe Bearing Capacity is the ultimate bearing capacity of the soil divided by a safety factor of 2 to 4 times.

Notes:
This ensures the site will not endure the full ultimate bearing capacity and helps to avoid structural failure.

Question 88

Which wall and floor material will provide the most passive heat during the winter?

a. Concrete near north facing windows
b. Carpet and wall coverings throughout the building
c. Wood near south facing windows
d. Concrete near south facing windows

Answer 88

Concrete near south facing windows

Notes:
The low winter sun warms the south side of the house all day. A stone or concrete floor stores up the heat during the day and releases it in the evening.

Question 89

What is NOT one of the four standardized national codes used to create the building codes adopted by municipalities?

a. Building Officials Code Administrators (BOCA)
b. International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO)
c. Uniform Building Code (UBC)
d. California Building Code (CBC)

Answer 89

California Building Code (CBC)

Notes:
The International Building Code (IBC) is relatively new and first produced in 2000 by the International Code Council (ICC). It combines the three model building codes published by BOCA, ICBO and SBCCI.

Question 90

Define the term Metes and Bounds.

a. A contract term defining the legal obligations of the architect.
b. A survey which indicates the existing topography and sets elevation, or datum, point above a set base point.
c. The boundaries of the site described by their relation to True North. Also states the measurements and legal boundaries of the site.
d. A guarantee that the contractor will meet the construction schedule.

Answer 90

The boundaries of the site described by their relation to True North. Also states the measurements and legal boundaries of the site.

Notes:
The boundaries of the site (metes and bounds) are often described by their relation to True North. For example: N 30 degrees 13 minutes and 22 seconds E describes a straight line that starts by pointing North and then rotating 30 degrees 13 minutes and 22 seconds toward the East. The length of that line is described in feet and decimals (e.g.: 34.11 feet).

Question 91

When and why was the first zoning code introduced?

a. 1916; to address the need for access to sunlight and air around tall buildings.
b. 1912; to instruct people how to properly utilize a building.
c. 1885; as an act initiated by president Grover Cleveland.
d. 1946; after WWII when many cities required new construction.

Answer 91

1916; to address the need for access to sunlight and air around tall buildings.

Notes:
The need for zoning began with the growth of our cities in the late 19th and early 20th Centuries when it quickly became clear that cities like New York would soon have streets with limited access to light and air. As the buildings grew taller and taller, the lack of access to sunlight and air threatened the surrounding property values.

Question 92

Define capillary action.

a. The ability of water to seep into small openings and penetrate into an object.
b. The ability of an object to contain and hold water.
c. The ability of a material to resist water infiltration.
d. The ability of water to pass through an object when subjected to high pressure.

Answer 92

The ability of water to seep into small openings and penetrate into an object.

Notes:

Capillary action refers to the ability of water to seep into small openings and penetrate into an object. If the foundation comes into contact with the water table, water could penetrate into the building causing further structural and mold related issues.

Question 93

Name one element NOT found in the City Beautiful Plan.

a. A centrally located neighborhood school.
b. A grand public space containing a central landscape feature.
c. Use of classical elements in the buildings and monuments.
d. Use of boulevards to connect public spaces together.

Answer 93

A centrally located neighborhood school.

Notes:
Instead of a neighborhood, a centrally located civic space was included.

Question 94

What is the best way to reduce a building’s carbon footprint?

a. Reducing the amount of water needed in the building
b. Install a greywater recycling system
c. Installing efficient mechanical and electrical systems
d. Reuse materials instead of using new construction

Answer 94

Reuse materials instead of using new construction

Notes:
Studies have shown that reusing a building material can cut carbon dioxide emissions (its’ carbon footprint) by more than half when compared to creating a new version of the material. Reusing materials is one of the best and most cost-effective ways to cut the carbon footprint of your buildings.

Question 95

Why is it important to consider the sequencing and scheduling of building elements during construction?

a. To relieve the architect of any responsibility during construction.
b. To create a set of details that is as accurate as possible.
c. To minimize disturbance to the site.
d. To give the contractor clear direction on how to build the building.

Answer 95

To minimize disturbance to the site.

Notes:
Construction should be phased to balance disturbance of soil and natural features on site to minimize and control erosion and sedimentation.

Question 96

When considering contour lines on the site, in what direction should the building footprint be placed?

a. Perpendicular to the contour lines.
b. Closest to an existing road, regardless of the contour lines.
c. Parallel to the contour lines.
d. At a diagonal to the contour lines.

Answer 96

Parallel to the contour lines.

Notes:
The length of the building should be placed parallel to the contour lines as this minimizes foundation work and eases rainwater drainage. This also applies to driveways and roads.

Question 97

How does a variance affect the zoning code applicable to a particular site?

a. A variance is a request to deviate from some of the requirements of zoning (maximum height, minimum setbacks, etc.), because complying with these requirements would create financial hardship or practical construction challenges.
b. A variance makes the site much more expensive to get permitted for construction.
c. A variance does not affect the zoning code requirements; it is part of building and safety.
d. A variance overrides the local zoning codes so that a building does not need to comply.

Answer 97

A variance is a request to deviate from some of the requirements of zoning (maximum height, minimum setbacks, etc.), because complying with these requirements would create financial hardship or practical construction challenges.

Notes:
Since, by its’ very nature, a zoning code places general requirements over an entire area, the unique needs for each individual property sometimes requires an exception called a “variance.” For example, the local zoning code requires your building to be no more than 30 feet in height, but your property is on a steeply sloping street and needs additional height to work. In this case, you could apply for a variance to exceed the height limitation. Variance requests are often reviewed by a Zoning Board or Planning Commission and are project specific.

Question 98

Which is a concern regarding site functionality that an architect should address?

a. The design should be efficient and use materials wisely to achieve its purpose.
b. The design should express the personality of the architect.
c. The design should strive to put form before function..
d. The design should utilize the most amount of land to gain the largest building possible.

Answer 98

The design should be efficient and use materials wisely to achieve its purpose.

Notes:
The design should use an economy of means to achieve its purpose. The design should utilize technologies ingeniously. The design should utilize materials properly.

Question 99

What zoning provision is meant to allow a building to receive access to light and air?

a. Setbacks
b. Building height
c. Right of way
d. Allowable area

Answer 99

Setbacks

Notes:
Setbacks are standards that requires the building to be “set back” from the property line by a certain distance.

Question 100

Which of the following describes a Township?

a. Refers to each 24 mile square created by the meridians and parallels.
b. Divided into 4 quarters (each 1/4 square mile).
c. Subdivided into 6 by 6 squares, creating 36 squares (each one square mile).
d. Is 6 miles square and numbered and designated as North or South of the base line and east or west of principal meridian.

Answer 100

Is 6 miles square and numbered and designated as North or South of the base line and east or west of principal meridian.

Notes:
Each check is divided into four by four squares, creating 16 townships per check. Each township is 6 miles square and numbered and designated as North or South of the base line and east or west of principal meridian.

Question 101

Which of the following describes a Condemnation Easement?

a. Used in row housing, when a common or party wall is shared by two adjacent owners.
b. Used when it is required for two private owners to use a strip of land between two houses which has a property line running in the center.
c. Is an easement for public good. As in the case where required for a street, highway, railroad right of way or for a telephone or electric power line.
d. May be established by a municipality to protect a historically valuable architectural façade in an area where redevelopment is occurring, and where the existence of the façade is threatened.

Answer 101

Is an easement for public good. As in the case where required for a street, highway, railroad right of way or for a telephone or electric power line.

Notes:
Generally these easements must remain accessible, such in the case of a utility easement.

Question 102

What is a friction pile?

a. A pile with a belled end reaching firm stratum.
b. A pile held in place by the soil.
c. A pile that supports the building by creating friction with the foundation.
d. A shortened pile for sites with rock near the surface.

Answer 102

A pile that supports the building by creating friction with the foundation.

Notes:
A Friction Pile does not bear on solid soil; instead they transmit their load between the pile and the soil using friction to transfer the load.

Question 103

Which item is included in a construction budget?

a. Cost of the land
b. General contractor’s overhead and profit
c. Services provided by an architect or engineer
d. Financing (lender to the Owner)

Answer 103

General contractor’s overhead and profit

Notes:
The general contractor’s overhead and profit are part of construction costs. The other items are project costs and they are typically paid by the Owner outside of the cost of construction budget.

Question 104

What is a F.A.R.?

a. Fire Access Ratio
b. Floor Area Ratio
c. Floor Area Rights
d. Floor Access Rights

Answer 104

Floor Area Ratio

Notes:
The ratio of the allowable floor area in relation to the size of the property. A FAR of 2.0 would mean that you are allowed to build twice the lot area.

Question 105

Which of the following is the best example of adaptive reuse?

a. Converting an old factory building into apartments.
b. Using an abandoned site for a new school project.
c. Converting an apartment building into condominiums.
d. Building a new commercial center on a piece of virgin land.

Answer 105

Converting an old factory building into apartments.

Notes:
Adaptive Reuse is a term that describes the process of reusing an old building or site for a purpose other than what was intended. Since adaptive reuse takes buildings that have outlived their usefulness and makes them useful again, it is seen as a key factor in urban redevelopment and reducing suburban sprawl.

Question 106

Which of the following describes the Design Development phase for a straightforward project of moderate scope?

a. Time to complete affected by complexity of project. Usually 2-3 weeks.
b. Time to complete affected by complexity of project. Usually 2-6 months.
c. Time to complete affected by project size and complexity; quality of client’s program info; decision making ability of Client; design team. Usually 1-2 months.
d. Varies depending on size/complexity of project. May require years to complete.

Answer 106

Time to complete affected by complexity of project. Usually 2-6 months.

Notes:
Design Development - time to complete affected by complexity of project. Usually 2-6 months. Plans are detailed to a greater level than during Schematic Design to prepare to move into Construction Documents.

Question 107

Which of the following describes the Multiple Nuclei city pattern?

a. City composed of several distinct central points.
b. Uses grouped along a central roadway in a linear fashion.
c. Land usage arranged in pie wedges radiating from city center.
d. Series of rings around central business district.

Answer 107

City composed of several distinct central points.

Notes:
Multiple Nuclei Pattern describes a city composed of several distinct central points. Some of these nuclei, or sub-centers, are old, while others developed as urbanization progressed.

Question 108

What are potential challenges associated with handling stormwater runoff?

a. Filtering all the stormwater to transform it to potable water.
b. Keeping the runoff on the streets and out of the sewer system.
c. Directing the runoff to oceans and lakes.
d. Debris, trash and pollutants can get swept up with the stormwater and pollute the sewer.

Answer 108

Debris, trash and pollutants can get swept up with the stormwater and pollute the sewer.

Notes:
Trash and debris increases stormwater treatment procedures. Flooding is often problematic since most storm sewers become overwhelmed quickly during heavy storms.

Question 109

Which code will affect the following: setbacks, rights-of-way, streets and sidewalks?

a. Fire Code
b. Zoning Code
c. Building Code
d. Health and Safety Code

Answer 109

Zoning Code

Notes:
The zoning code also prescribes building height limitations as well as site usage (residential, commercial, etc.)

Question 110

Which of the following describes a Street Front pattern?

a. Homes are densely grouped around shared common public spaces and roads.
b. Homes are grouped together around a common or shared open space.
c. Homes are placed linearly along the street allowing straightforward access for cars and people.
d. Homes are turned at right angles to the street; neighboring units face each other and share a sidewalk.

Answer 110

Homes are placed linearly along the street allowing straightforward access for cars and people.

Notes:
This is the traditional suburban tract home layout that is prevalent in most US neighborhoods.

Question 111

How can you provide daylighting into spaces where privacy is a concern?

a. Use overhangs on windows to block views
b. Use clerestories or skylights
c. Use heavy landscaping to block views from windows
d. Use heavy curtains and window coverings

Answer 111

Use clerestories or skylights

Notes:
Using clerestories or skylights will bring light into the building without giving up privacy or in places where windows are not possible.

Question 112

What is a reclaimed material?

a. A new material that has been sustainably harvested.
b. A material that has been recycled
c. An old material that is no longer in use.
d. An old material that has been reused.

Answer 112

An old material that has been reused.

Notes:
Reclaimed materials avoid the need for recycling. Instead, they are simply salvaged, cleaned up and used over again.

Question 113

Describe a building exit as defined by the building code.

a. Direct access to a public way.
b. A door that directly leads to a stair or outdoor area.
c. Distance a building occupant would need to travel to reach an exit.
d. The route between the exit door and a safe public way.

Answer 113

A door that directly leads to a stair or outdoor area.

Notes:
Exits must be fire rated to a minimum of 1-hour and lead out of a building to a safe exit discharge.

Question 114

Which of the following sites would be the best choice for development from an environmental standpoint?

a. An abandoned urban parking lot
b. A hilltop overlooking a city
c. A greenfield
d. A brownfield

Answer 114

A brownfield

Notes:
Environmentalist argue that cleaning up a chemically polluted brownfield is better and more important than developing on a pristine piece of undeveloped land, called a “greenfield”.

Question 115

What site feature does NOT affect the microclimate of a site?

a. Proximity to Freeways - excessive traffic can increase site temperature and affect air quality.
b. Prevailing Winds - depending on the location, winds on a site can impact air temperature.
c. Site Elevation - the height above sea level affects, rain and snow fall as well as temperature.
d. Site Latitude - areas closer to the Equator are warmer than those further away.

Answer 115

Proximity to Freeways - excessive traffic can increase site temperature and affect air quality.

Notes:
Other factors that affect the microclimate include proximity to water, proximity to mountains and the topography of the site.

Question 116

What foundation would be best suited for a site that has soils with poor bearing capacity?

a. Piles or caissons
b. Raised foundation
c. Stem wall
d. Sheet flow

Answer 116

Piles or caissons

Notes:
A site containing silts or clays in the soil may require this foundation type in order to reach stable soil.

Question 117

Which of the following is a typical design criteria for accessible parking?

a. Parking stalls to be 9’ x 23’ minimum.
b. Handicapped parking stalls must have a 5 feet access aisle between every two spaces.
c. Stalls to be located near building entrance but are allowed to cross vehicular path of travel.
d. Minimum number of required stalls is 10; increases in lots larger than 50 standard stalls.

Answer 117

Handicapped parking stalls must have a 5 feet access aisle between every two spaces.

Notes:
Number of required stalls depends on total number of parking spaces and the type of building.

Question 118

What is R-Value?

a. A measure of insulation performance
b. A measure of heat reflectivity
c. A measure of heat transfer
d. A measure of light reflectivity

Answer 118

A measure of insulation performance

Notes:
Insulation is measured in R-Value. The higher the R-Value, the more insulation value the material has. The thicker the walls, the more insulation it can hold, and therefore the more R-value the wall has.

Question 119

Which housing type contains more than one family and generally consists of 3 or more adjacent units facing a street?

a. Walk-Up Apartment
b. Row House
c. Duplex
d. High Rise Apartment

Answer 119

Row House

Notes:
Row House: three or more attached units set in a single, continuous box (or row).

Question 120

Name a site feature that may need to be preserved on a site when considering the building foundation.

a. Circulation Systems (paths, roads, parking)
b. Landforms (terracing, berms, grading)
c. Water Features (fountains, streams, ponds)
d. Vegetation (trees, shrubs, fields)

Answer 120

Landforms (terracing, berms, grading)

Notes:
Some measures to protect the site include protecting and maintaining buildings and sites by providing proper drainage to assure that water does not erode foundation walls; drain toward the building; or damage or erode the landscape.

Question 121

Which of the following is NOT a strategy to manage risk on a project?

a. Avoid the risk altogether
b. Increase the negative effects of the risk
c. Transfer the risk to another party
d. Accept the consequences of the risk

Answer 121

Increase the negative effects of the risk

Notes:
Risk management is the identification, assessment, and prioritization of risks followed by coordinated and economical application of resources to minimize, monitor, and control the probability and/or impact of unfortunate events or to maximize the realization of opportunities. The strategies to manage risk typically include transferring the risk to another party, avoiding the risk, reducing the negative effect or probability of the risk, or even accepting some or all of the potential or actual consequences

Question 122

What are the downsides to creating a monoculture?

a. Monocultures are boring.
b. A monoculture is described as having only one type of building, which creates dull and predictable communities without any mix of uses.
c. Creating a monoculture would actually be desirable and efficient.
d. Monocultures do not allow diversity of people; only one ethnicity is allowed to live in a certain area.

Answer 122

A monoculture is described as having only one type of building, which creates dull and predictable communities without any mix of uses.

Notes:
In general, creating a monoculture (having only one type) of building creates dull and predictable types of communities. For example, think of a typical suburban tract development consisting solely of housing, or an urban civic center filled with only public buildings. These types of communities are not 24-hour use spaces, and as such can attract crime, trash or worst of all, boredom.

Question 123

Which of the following is NOT affected in terms of design by the construction type of a building?

a. Accessibility requirements
b. Building materials
c. Building height
d. Floor area

Answer 123

Accessibility requirements

Notes:
Construction Type for a building is classified according to degree of fire resistance, determined by the fire zone it is located in and intended use, influences the height, floor area, and materials.

Question 124

In terms of site design, what are conifers best used for?

a. Blocking wind and views.
b. Providing shade.
c. Separating site uses.
d. Adding lush greenery to the landscape.

Answer 124

Blocking wind and views.

Notes:
Conifers are needle like evergreens that do not shed leaves. Perfect when used as year-round wind breakers or privacy screens. Pines, such as spruce and firs, are the most common conifers.

Question 125

What is a percolation test and when would it be used?

a. A test used to evaluate the rate at which building materials absorb water; necessary in very humid climates.
b. A test used to calculate the maximum density that is required for the soil on a site; necessary when soil samples are poor.
c. A test used to evaluate the rate at which soil will absorb water on a site; necessary for septic draining or leach fields.
d. A test used to determine the rate at which water drains from a site; necessary on steeply sloping sites.

Answer 125

A test used to evaluate the rate at which soil will absorb water on a site; necessary for septic draining or leach fields.

Notes:
Soils that absorb water quickly also tend to be more fertile with better drainage than harder, less absorbent soils.

Question 126

Which is the best way to mitigate disturbance to existing trees a site?

a. Do not grade past the drip line of the tree.
b. Minimize disturbance to natural site water supplies.
c. Re-plant disturbed areas to other parts of the site.
d. Minimize night site lighting to not disturb fauna.

Answer 126

Do not grade past the drip line of the tree.

Notes:
Grading into the drip line of a tree could damage the roots and kill the tree.

Question 127

Which department would generally perform plan check first in the building permit approval process?

a. Design Review Board
b. Planning Department
c. Fire Protection
d. Building and Safety

Answer 127

Planning Department

Notes:
The Planning Department is generally the first step in the permit approval process. Most other agencies, such as Building and Safety, will not perform a plan check until after the Planning Department has completed their review.

Question 128

Which of the following street types would have the lowest level of traffic?

a. Arterial Streets
b. Local Streets
c. Freeways
d. Collector/Distributor Streets

Answer 128

Local Streets

Notes:
Local Streets - provide access to low intensity uses in front of them.

Question 129

Which of the following would be the typical dB level for an office conversation?

a. 70dB
b. 30dB
c. 165dB
d. 95dB

Answer 129

70dB

Notes:
We measure noise (sound) in decibels (dB) on a logarithmic scale between 1dB (the bottom threshold of hearing) and 140dB (threshold of pain). A change of 1 decibel is the smallest difference that a human ear can detect.

Question 130

Why is a drip irrigation system a sustainable option for landscape watering?

a. Drip irrigation delivers water directly down to plant roots.
b. Drip irrigation restricts the amount of water delivered by the sprinklers.
c. Drip irrigation delivers water to the leaves as well as the soil.
d. Drip irrigation is much faster and uses less water than traditional sprinklers.

Answer 130

Drip irrigation delivers water directly down to plant roots.

Notes:
Instead of using sprinklers, a drip irrigation system uses up to 80% less water—by bringing the water directly to the roots where it belongs.

Question 131

Which of the following is NOT a negative effect that the project may experience from shortening the project schedule?

a. Hire more people - new to project, inexperienced, requires time to train.
b. Reduce man hours - poor quality of drawings.
c. Work Overtime - costly and inefficient.
d. Overall, causes lower costs for Design and Construction and lower quality project.

Answer 131

Overall, causes lower costs for Design and Construction and lower quality project.

Notes:
Actually, shortening the project schedule often increases costs for design and construction.

Question 132

Which is a primary purpose for the development of a zoning code?

a. Protect the air and water quality of a city.
b. Ensure incompatible types of building uses do not disturb residents (i.e.: putting a loud factory next to a quiet library).
c. Create a diverse mix of uses and occupancy types to add richness to a city.
d. Protect local residents from crime and corruption.

Answer 132

Ensure incompatible types of building uses do not disturb residents (i.e.: putting a loud factory next to a quiet library).

Notes:
Other zoning code concerns include: Protect local residents from undesirable types of business; protect the access to direct sunlight and fresh air; protect the amount of open space for local residents.

Question 133

What is a Catchment Area?

a. Region and population of a city that supports local facilities
b. A staging area for construction equipment
c. A low lying area on a site designed to gather rain water
d. Similar to a catchment basin for holding runoff water

Answer 133

Region and population of a city that supports local facilities

Notes:
A “catchment area” is a development term that refers to the geographic region and population from which a facility attracts visitors/customers.

Question 134

Which category describes cohesive soils?

a. No bearing capacity, must be removed.
b. Solid rock, very stable for foundations.
c. Very dense soil containing the smallest grains of all soil types.
d. Medium grain soils that perform very well with water drainage.

Answer 134

Very dense soil containing the smallest grains of all soil types.

Notes:
Cohesive Soils - very dense soil containing the smallest grains of all soil types (clay and silt).

Question 135

Define Underpinning

a. Cutting trenches into a site for placement of foundation walls and utility lines.
b. Use of buttresses to support a retaining wall during construction.
c. Use of support beams and floors while a column or wall is removed.
d. Process of strengthening and stabilizing the foundation of an existing building while work occurs to the building on site.

Answer 135

Process of strengthening and stabilizing the foundation of an existing building while work occurs to the building on site.

Notes:
Underpinning is used when a building is undergoing repairs or additions and requires the foundation to be stabilized.

Question 136

What is the typical bearing capacity of compacted sand?

a. 2,000 - 3,000 psf
b. 10,000 psf
c. 3,000 - 12,000 psf
d. 1,000 - 4,000 psf

Answer 136

2,000 - 3,000 psf

Notes:
Compacted sand and fill = 2,000 - 3,000 psf

Question 137

Why would thermal mass be used in a building during the winter?

a. To reduce the energy consumption of the building.
b. To hold heat within a building.
c. Thermal mass is traditionally only used during the summer.
d. To keep the building cool.

Answer 137

To hold heat within a building.

Notes:
Heavy mass materials (such as concrete, stone, brick or even water) store heat and cold. When the temperature changes, these materials release the stored temperature back into the air.

Question 138

Which of the following is NOT one of the seven items involved in the selection criteria process when evaluating a site for adaptive reuse?

a. Archaic Materials
b. Renovation Costs
c. History of the Site
d. Type of Foundation to use

Answer 138

Type of Foundation to use

Notes:
The seven items include: Value, History, Renovation Costs, Community, Program, Environment, Archaic Materials

Question 139

In terms of efficiency, where in a building should elevator lobbies and restrooms be placed?

a. On the south side of the building, to allow for adequate light.
b. In the front of the building near the lobby.
c. In the core of the building, connecting various spaces.
d. At the back of the building, away from public view.

Answer 139

In the core of the building, connecting various spaces.

Notes:
Certain activities may want to be centrally located (elevators, bathrooms). Spaces used by a majority of the people may be placed up front (lobby, reception), while specialized purposes may be put further back (conference room).

Question 140

What should you do if you discover large quantities of organic soils on a site?

a. Remove the soil and replace it with an appropriate fill material.
b. Use a mat slab foundation to float the building on the soil.
c. Compact the soil and use a stem wall foundation.
d. Choose a different site as organic soils are impossible to build on.

Answer 140

Remove the soil and replace it with an appropriate fill material.

Notes:
Organic soils do not have adequate bearing capacities and should be removed. Otherwise, foundation piles would need to extend through to solid bedrock or bearing soils.

Question 141

Which of the following climatic zones would be used to describe a site located in a desert?

a. Temperate Zone
d. Cool Zone
c. Arid Zone
d. Tropical Zone

Answer 141

Arid Zone

Notes:
Arid Zone - areas of Midwestern and desert states.

Question 142

What is hydrostatic pressure?

a. The pressure exerted onto a building by rushing water, such as during a flood.
b. Refer to two materials that cause static electricity when subjected to pressure.
c. Caused when the weight of water is forced against an object by gravity.
d. The pressure required for a building foundation to resist settling.

Answer 142

Caused when the weight of water is forced against an object by gravity.

Notes:
Hydrostatic pressure is caused when the weight of water is forced against an object by gravity. Since water is very heavy, the more water that presses against a foundation, the greater the pressure due to gravity. This can cause weaknesses in the foundation and will require additional strength and reinforcement in order to avoid potential problems.

Question 143

What is a grid circulation pattern?

a. Roads are placed in linear alignments with buildings facing one another.
b. Roads are placed outside of a pedestrian oriented urban design.
c. Roads are placed at perpendicular right angles with buildings in each quandrant.
d. Roads are placed in parallel alignments with buildings between the roads.

Answer 143

Roads are placed at perpendicular right angles with buildings in each quadrant.

Notes:
The grid system consists of consistently spaced streets and roads that are perpendicular to each other, forming a grid.

Question 144

How much area should be dedicated per person in a public space where most people will be standing?

a. 10 square feet
b. 3 square feet
c. 5 square feet
d. 7 square feet

Answer 144

3 square feet

Notes:
The area covered by a person standing still is approximately 3 square feet.

Question 145

Which of the following describes a typical treatment for a South facing window?

a. Provide clerestories
b. Provide skylights
c. Provide overhangs for shading
d. Protect with louvers

Answer 145

Provide overhangs for shading

Notes:
South facing windows receive sunlight nearly all day. A 2 foot overhang will usually do a good job of shading the summer sun but allowing the winter sun to come in to the building.

Question 146

What is “gray water”?

a. Water from irrigation
b. Water that runs off of roofs and paved surfaces from rainfall
c. Water from toilets
d. Water from building fixtures such as faucets and showers

Answer 146

Water from building fixtures such as faucets and showers

Notes:
Showers, baths, faucets and laundry require clean water. The soapy water going down the drain is called “graywater.”

Question 147

What term do the following items describe: large in scale, utilizes mixed occupancies, completed in phases over an extended schedule?

a. Transit Oriented Development
b. Master Plan Development
c. Planned Unit Development
d. Mixed Use Development

Answer 147

Planned Unit Development

Notes:
Large Scale: a PUD typically involves the development of a large project, such as an entire block, neighborhood or town. Mixed Use: unlike a residential development, a PUD usually involves a mix of building types and uses. Done in Phases: given the scale and scope of such developments, a PUD is often planned and built in phases, over an extended period of time. Changes may be made to future phases in response to evolving community needs, changing economic demands or new planning regulation.

Question 148

What is solar orientation?

a. The more perpendicular the sun’s rays are to the site, the greater the amount of solar radiation received.
b. The less perpendicular the sun’s rays are to the site, the greater amount of solar radiation received.
c. A site located in the desert will have more solar exposure than other locations.
d. A north facing site has more solar exposure than a south facing site.

Answer 148

The more perpendicular the sun’s rays are to the site, the greater the amount of solar radiation received.

Notes:
The more perpendicular the sun’s rays are to the site, the greater the amount of solar radiation received. It is important to note the amount of solar radiation received in order to design a building that maintains a consistent internal temperature.

Question 149

What type of cost estimation occurs during Schematic Design?

a. Based on the major elements of each building system, i.e. structure, MEP.
b. Detailed components, can be unit costs for the component (sq ft of curtain wall).
c. Unit cost system – cost per sf, based on similar building types or functions of spaces.
d. Unit costs (i.e. based on costs per student, per hospital bed, per sq ft of floor area, per cubic ft of building volume).

Answer 149

Based on the major elements of each building system, i.e. structure, MEP.

Notes:
Schematic Design Phase - based on the major elements of each building system, i.e. structure, MEP.

Question 150

What is the term used by Kevin Lynch to describe how people react to urban areas in his book “The Image of the City”?

a. The Neighborhood Concept
b. Urban Legibility
c. Suburban Imageability
d. Urban Imageability

Answer 150

Urban Legibility

Notes:
Urban Legibility - refers to how the parts of any city are recognized by your brain and organized into a pattern. This legibility is important since it orients us and helps us find our way.

Question 151

How have rectilinear patterns been used throughout history?

a. To create even and linear neighborhoods
b. To protect a city from invasion
c. To group settlements and fence in livestock
d. To maintain crops arranged in even rows

Answer 151

To maintain crops arranged in even rows

Notes:
Rectilinear - architectural settlements (crops arranged in even rows).

Question 152

Which of the following is NOT a typical design criteria for accessible parking?

a. Parking stalls to be 9’ x 18’ minimum.
b. Stalls to be located near building entrance with minimal need to cross vehicular path of travel.
c. Minimum number of required stalls is 10; increases in lots larger than 50 standard stalls.
d. Handicapped parking stalls must have a 5 feet access aisle between every two spaces.

Answer 152

Minimum number of required stalls is 10; increases in lots larger than 50 standard stalls.

Notes:
Number of required stalls depends on total number of parking spaces and the type of building.

Question 153

What is FF&E?

a. Finishes, Furnishings & Equipment
b. Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment
c. Furnace, Fixtures & Electricity
d. Furring, Fittings & Epoxies

Answer 153

Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment

Notes:
Furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E) is a term used to describe all of the loose items within a building.

Question 154

What is a water table?

a. The level of water the site can hold before flooding.
b. The level of water below the surface of the ground.
c. The level of water that can be added to a local storm sewer.
d. A measurement of a site’s ability to absorb water.

Answer 154

The level of water below the surface of the ground.

Notes:
The level of water below the surface of the ground is referred to as the “water table”.

Question 155

Which of the following is NOT a concern for stormwater runoff and rainwater collection/distribution?

a. Use of landscape swales to direct water.
b. Design for large areas of concrete/impervious surfaces.
c. Desert environment - design to avoid flash flooding.
d. Proper slope and drainage of site.

Answer 155

Design for large areas of concrete/impervious surfaces.

Notes:
Other considerations include: Proper storm drain system to avoid waterway contamination; Avoid building in flood prone areas; elevate above the 100 year flood plain and reinforce the foundation.

Question 156

What is the main intent and purpose of building codes?

a. To protect the health, safety and welfare of the occupants.
b. To regulate building use and occupancy.
c. To protect the Architect from lawsuits.
d. To restrict site usage and overall building footprint.

Answer 156

To protect the health, safety and welfare of the occupants.

Notes:
In the broadest sense, building codes are designed to protect the health, safety and welfare of the occupants. As such, codes set requirements for life safety issues such as: fire protection (sprinklers, fireproofing) or egress requirements (hallway width, stairwell layout).

Question 157

What is a P.U.D.?

a. A Private Utility Drive, which is an easement on a property allowing for access of utility services and vehicles. b. A Planned Unit Development, which uses a cluster concept combining residential, commercial or industrial uses.
c. A Public Unit Development, which consists of public housing with access to public schooling and services.
d. Planner Unable to Determine, which means an issue has come up during plan check which requires further explanation.

Answer 157

A Planned Unit Development, which uses a cluster concept combining residential, commercial or industrial uses.

Notes:
Planned Unit Development (PUD): this is the legal term used to describe the cluster concept, and can be used for residential, commercial or industrial developments, making it broader in scope than a simple residential cluster.

Question 158

Who generally enforces or monitors air rights?

a. Department of Building and Safety
b. Public Works
c. Local Zoning ordinances
d. Building Height Restriction Council

Answer 158

Local Zoning ordinances

Notes:
Local Zoning ordinances or guidelines from the FAA can be used to enforce air rights.

Question 159

Which of the following is a Preliminary Survey?

a. A basic plan showing the boundaries, orientation (north) and possibly a few major features of the site.
b. A plan showing the general measurements of a site and legal boundaries.
c. A highly detailed plan showing the exact conditions of the site, details, existing structures, topography, offsets and benchmarks.
d. An “as-built” survey that is done after construction to document the completed project.

Answer 159

A basic plan showing the boundaries, orientation (north) and possibly a few major features of the site.

Notes:
Preliminary Survey is a basic plan showing the boundaries, orientation (north) and possibly a few major features of the site. This is used to prepare initial design plans.

Question 160

Which of the following items would be most affected by thermal expansion?

a. Concrete stem wall
b. Copper water pipes
c. Electrical wiring
d. PVC drain pipes

Answer 160

Copper water pipes

Notes:
In general, most substances expand when heated and contract when cooled. This can cause structural and aesthetic issues in a building. Metals tend to expand and contract more than other building materials. Water expands when it freezes. As a result, if copper pipes freeze, they may burst and require costly repairs.

Question 161

Which of the following sites would be the least expensive to build on?

a. Relatively flat sites require less grading and excavation, greatly reducing foundation complexity.
b. A steeply sloping site, such as a hilltop, offers excellent views and airflow.
c. Ground slope has a very minimal affect on the cost of a project.
d. Sloping sites allow for adequate water drainage and will accommodate almost any foundation type.

Answer 161

Relatively flat sites require less grading and excavation, greatly reducing foundation complexity.

Notes:
The slope of the site also determines the amount of rainwater that can be absorbed by the soil, the areas appropriate for driveways or parking and the access to natural light and views.

Question 162

How is a material sustainably harvested?

a. A tree is trimmed instead of completely cut down.
b. A tree is cut down and re-planted.
c. A tree is cut down and the soil is left to rest before being replanted.
d. A tree is grown using energy and water efficient technologies.

Answer 162

A tree is trimmed instead of completely cut down.

Notes:
A “sustainably harvested” material is one that is gathered without killing or destroying the original source.

Question 163

What is the advantage to using indigenous materials in a building?

a. They may have cultural importance to the community.
b. They may be required per local historical building codes.
c. They are more sustainable than new construction.
d. They are local and readily available.

Answer 163

There are local and readily available

Notes:
Locally found materials are called indigenous materials and don’t require transportation or import.

Question 164

What hazardous condition could potentially be discovered on a brownfield site?

a. Debris that has been carried by runoff
b. The presence of lead paint
c. The presence of asbestos
d. Groundwater contamination

Answer 164

Groundwater contamination

Notes:
Groundwater contamination is a serious problem and the site should be tested for the presence of any harmful materials.

Question 165

What is U-Value?

a. A measure of light reflectivity
b. A measure of window light transmittance
c. A measure of heat transfer
d. A measure of window insulation performance

Answer 165

A measure of window insulation performance

Notes:
The insulating value of windows is measured in U-value, which is actually just 1/R-value. Since it is the inverse of R-value, the lower the U-value, the more insulation value it has.

Question 166

Which term is defined as the ultimate bearing capacity of the soil divided by a factor of 2 to 4 times?

a. Rupture Bearing Capacity
b. Safe Bearing Capacity
c. Allowable Bearing Capacity
d. Ultimate Bearing Strength

Answer 166

Safe Bearing Capacity

Notes:
This ensures the site will not endure the full ultimate bearing capacity and helps to avoid structural failure.

Question 167

Which item is included in a construction budget?

a. Financing (lender to the Owner)
b. Cost of the land
c. Services provided by a sub-contractor
d. Services provided by an architect or engineer

Answer 167

Services provided by a sub-contractor

Notes:
The contractor pays for the sub-contractors; the other items are project costs, however they are paid by the Owner outside of the cost of construction budget.

Question 168

Which of the following describes a Deed of Trust?

a. A contract in which a buyer of a property borrows money from a bank or any other landing institution to purchase the property.
b. Transfers the legal title to a trustee, who holds it as security for a loan between a borrower and lender.
c. Used when it is required for two private owners to use a strip of land between two houses which has a property line running in the center.
d. Written agreement or a promise under seal between two or more parties for the performance of some specific action or restriction.

Answer 168

Transfers the legal title to a trustee, who holds it as security for a loan between a borrower and lender.

Notes:
If the borrower defaults on the loan, the trustee has the power to foreclose on behalf of the beneficiary.

Question 169

Which methods for preserving features on the site would best be suited for existing vegetation?

a. Surveying and conducting field investigations
b. Minimize disturbance of terrain
c. Evaluating condition of existing features
d. Stabilizing, protecting and preserving existing features

Answer 169

Minimize disturbance of terrain

Notes:
Minimizing disturbance of terrain around buildings or elsewhere on the site, thus reducing the possibility of destroying or damaging important landscape features or archeological resources.

Question 170

During programming, what aspect of spatial design should be taken into consideration?

a. The design should abandon the familiar and commonplace building techniques of its locale.
b. The design should have a human scale, in both its material parts and its spaces, and in its interior and exterior.
c. The design should not exhibit a priority or hierarchy of parts.
d. The design should provide no connection between interior and exterior spaces.

Answer 170

The design should have a human scale, in both its material parts and its spaces, and in its interior and exterior.

Notes:
The design should have a human scale, in both its material parts and its spaces, and in its interior and exterior.

Question 171

Which term grants you the ability to use a building for your proposed use even though the zoning code normally would not allow it?

a. Grandfather clause
b. Variance
c. Ordinance
d. Conditional Use Permit

Answer 171

Conditional Use Permit

Notes:
If you wish to build or use a building for a purpose not granted in the zoning code, you can apply for a “conditional use” permit. This grants you the ability to use the building for your proposed use, even though the zoning code normally would not allow it. This use is typically granted with certain restrictions and may not be transferrable to a new owner.

Question 172

How might a person react to a room that is bright yellow?

a. They may begin to feel depressed or lonely.
b. They might become anxious or excited.
c. They would tend to feel relaxed and calm.
d. They may become hungry or tired.

Answer 172

They might become anxious or excited.

Notes:
Color can affect: Emotions, Productivity, The feeling of the space, How the form is perceived, and How imperfections are hidden.

Question 173

Which of the following terms describes a request to deviate from some requirements of the zoning code?

a. Prescriptive Code Analysis Method
b. Variance
c. Conditional Use
d. Ordinance

Answer 173

Variance

Notes:
Since, by its’ very nature, a zoning code places general requirements over an entire area, the unique needs for each individual property sometimes requires an exception called a “variance.” For example, the local zoning code requires your building to be no more than 30 feet in height, but your property is on a steeply sloping street and needs additional height to work. In this case, you could apply for a variance to exceed the height limitation. Variance requests are often reviewed by a Zoning Board or Planning Commission and are project specific.

Question 174

What term would describe an industrial factory built in 1920 that is currently zoned for residential?

a. Conditional Use
b. Condition of Approval
c. Non-conforming Use
d. Variance

Answer 174

Non-conforming Use

Notes:
An example of a non-conforming use would be an industrial factory building built in 1920, but today is in an area marked for residential or commercial zoning. In this case, the factory could be able to continue operating in that location.

Question 175

Which of the following is NOT reviewed by the Building Department?

a. Location of curb cuts
b. Egress requirements
c. Building code compliance
d. Accessibility compliance

Answer 175

Location of curb cuts

Notes:
Location of curb cuts are usually reviewed by the Transportation Department or Public Works.

Question 176

What is a plane in geometric terms?

a. A three-dimensional area bounded by planes.
b. An indication of a position without dimension or space. Could represent the beginning or intersection of a line.
c. Any three points in space with two-dimensions; it has width and length, but no thickness.
d. The connection of at least two points, indicates a direction. It has a length, but no thickness.

Answer 176

Any three points in space with two-dimensions; it has width and length, but no thickness.

Notes:
Plane: any three points in space determine a flat surface called a plane. A plane is two-dimensional; it has width and length, but no thickness. A sheet of paper is an example of a plane.

Question 177

When is a building allowed to be designed outside of zoning height restrictions?

a. A non-conforming use permit must be approved
b. A building must be fully sprinklered
c. A building may have rooftop features that extend past the height limit
d. A building must be a mixed use occupancy

Answer 177

A building may have rooftop features that extend past the height limit

Notes:
Penthouses, fan rooms, and skylights are sometimes allowed to exceed height restrictions.

Question 178

Define Ecology.

a. The science of the relationship between people and their environment.
b. The science of the relationship between fauna and its environment.
c. The science of the relationship between vegetation and its environment.
d. The science of the relationship between an organism or community and its environment.

Answer 178

The science of the relationship between an organism or community and its environment.

Notes:
Ecology is the science of the relationship between an organism or community and its environment. The community comprises of all the living plants and animals occupying a given area.

Question 179

Define belled caisson.

a. A caisson that widens at the bottom.
b. A caisson that is poured into the site.
c. A caisson the is drilled into the site.
d. A caisson that widens at the top.

Answer 179

A caisson that widens at the bottom.

Notes:
A belled caisson is used when there is a layer of firm stratum at the bottom. A deep hole is drilled into the ground and a caisson is lowered into the hole to form a footing at the bottom.

Question 180

Which of the following is part of the Neighborhood Concept?

a. The smallest use of land is for residential needs.
b. Major roads separate each distinct area of land use.
c. The land use should be equally divided between residential, a neighborhood school, and a park.
d. The largest use of land is for residential needs.

Answer 180

The largest use of land is for residential needs.

Notes:
Also included as part of the Neighborhood Concept was the idea that one should design a well balanced and useful neighborhood that benefits the community as a whole. Live, work, education and recreation should all be located within a close proximity to one another.

Question 181

Define Under-Improvement.

a. A property that is considered a “diamond in the rough”
b. A property that is not being used in the best manner possible to increase the value
c. A property that is well valued
d. A property requiring considerable repairs before it can be used

Answer 181

A property that is not being used in the best manner possible to increase the value

Notes:
The term under-improvement refers to a property that is not being used to its highest and best use, thus reducing the value of the property.

Question 182

Which of the following describes the Satellite Plan development pattern?

a. Development contains clusters of activity; major roads connect each cluster.
b. Development occurs along each side of a public transit corridor.
c. Variant of cluster plan but has a dominant center, often the original city.
d. Concentric circles with a central business district.

Answer 182

Variant of cluster plan but has a dominant center, often the original city.

Notes:
Satellite Plan - describes a series of individual urban developments, each with its’ own central core, surrounding a large, major urban center. For example: Detroit and its’ surrounding cities.

Question 183

Which department reviews for building height and setbacks?

a. Fire Department
b. Design Review Board
c. Police Department
d. Planning Department

Answer 183

Planning Department

Notes:
In addition, the Building Department will review for Accessibility Guidelines, Health Standards and Sanitation Requirements.

Question 184

What is a Conditional Use permit?

a. Requires more stringent restrictions on a building than what is enforced by the local agency,
b. Allows you to not comply with building and zoning codes
c. Allows you to build outside of the building code
d. Allows you to build outside of the zoning code

Answer 184

Allows you to build outside of the zoning code

Notes:
If you wish to build or use a building for a purpose not granted in the zoning code, you can apply for a “conditional use” permit. This grants you the ability to use the building for your proposed use, even though the zoning code normally would not allow it.

Question 185

What is the width of a typical street?

a. 12 feet total
b. 15 feet total
c. 40 feet total
d. 30 feet total

Answer 185

40 feet total

Notes:
Street widths are determined by the number of traffic lanes, typical lane is 11 to 12 feet. A typical two lane highway or arterial street, allowing nine feet for shoulders is about 40 feet.

Question 186

What is an ideal density?

a. Suburban sprawl is the best type of density as it separates the residential areas from the busy and loud commercial areas.
b. Areas should be separated into distinct usage areas, such as housing and schools, and should contain the highest person per acre ratio possible for efficiency.
c. An ideal density would consist of a mix of building types such as housing, public space and shopping areas.
d. Low densities are more desirable to allow for ample space between buildings and occupancy types.

Answer 186

An ideal density would consist of a mix of building types such as housing, public space and shopping areas.

Notes:
Community density should have a mix of building types, including housing, public space, shopping areas and school facilities. Such practices are often mentioned in New Urbanism, an approach calling for traditional town planning by combining mixed-use and high density to create livable spaces.

Question 187

What purpose do deciduous trees serve best on a project site?

a. Providing shade.
b. Blocking wind and views.
c. Adding lush greenery to the landscape.
d. Separating site uses.

Answer 187

Providing shade.

Notes:
Deciduous trees are full with leaves through the Spring and Summer, providing shade.

Question 188

What of the following is NOT a traditional measurement of Anamorphic Design?

a. Fathom: distance between both outstretched arms, or the height of the body
b. Yard: distance from the hip to the foot.
c. Foot: the length of a foot
d. Inch: width of a thumb

Answer 188

Yard: distance from the hip to the foot.

Notes:
Anamorphic Design refers to design in reference to the scale of the human body. A yard is actually the distance from the center of body to an outstretched arm.

Question 189

What are possible negative side effects of excess noise?

a. Excitement and anxiety.
b. Certain noise levels can be accepted and ignored.
c. Loss of appetite.
d. Increased stress and loss of sleep.

Answer 189

Increased stress and loss of sleep.

Notes:
Unwanted noise affects sleep patterns, comfort and adds to stress levels. Tolerance levels for noise depends on the neighborhood or environment of the residents. For example, residents in a dense, urban city might have a higher tolerance of noise levels compared to residents living in a suburban or rural environment.

Question 190

Which of the following plants would be most “drought tolerant” in an arid climate?

a. Maples and Pines
b. Cactus and Joshua Trees
c. Small shrubs and climbing Ivy
d. Rose bushes and tropical flowers

Answer 190

Cactus and Joshua Trees

Notes:
Drought tolerant landscaping refers to plants that require very little water to thrive.

Question 191

Why is dead end parking generally not desired when designing a parking lot?

a. The drive aisles tend to be closer together.
b. The parking lot generally only has one entry and exit, causing congestion.
c. The parking stalls are generally set at angles and are not very efficient.
d. The drive aisles force drivers to back up in order to exit the aisle.

Answer 191

The drive aisles force drivers to back up in order to exit the aisle.

Notes:
“Dead End” parking refers to parking arrangements that do not allow for drive through circulation.

Question 192

What type of foundation would work best on a site with hard bedrock or gravel at the surface?

a. A raised foundation
b. A Mat Slab foundation
c. A typical stem wall foundation
d. A Pile or Caisson foundation

Answer 192

A typical stem wall foundation

Notes:
A typical stem wall foundation would be appropriate for this site as there are stable soils at the surface.

Question 193

What is loam?

a. Very rich soil containing equal amounts of sand, silt and clay.
b. A lightweight building material used for ornamental building elements.
c. Soft soil comprised of decomposing organic materials.
d. Soils that have been deposited on a site by the movement of water.

Answer 193

Very rich soil containing equal amounts of sand, silt and clay.

Notes:
Loam contains a majority of silt and clay, making it an undesirable choice for a building foundation.

Question 194

Which of the following is NOT typically performed on the site prior to building construction?

a. Perform runoff control to minimize stormwater runoff from the site.
b. Identify areas to be protected and determine point of construction access to the site.
c. Grade the site and remove any required existing features, such as landscaping or structures.
d. Perform site improvements such as landscaping and paving.

Answer 194

Perform site improvements such as landscaping and paving.

Notes:
Landscaping and paving are performed once construction is complete.

Question 195

What is an exit discharge?

a. Direct access to a public way.
b. Distance a building occupant would need to travel to reach an exit.
c. A door that directly leads to a stair or outdoor area.
d. The route between the exit door and a safe public way.

Answer 195

The route between the exit door and a safe public way.

Notes:
The Exit Discharge has no limitations on distance once an occupant is outside of the building on ground level.

Question 196

Which party is responsible for directing sequencing during construction?

a. Owner
b. Sub-contractors
c. Contractor
d. Architect

Answer 196

Contractor

Notes:
The Contractor is ultimately responsible for construction means and methods. The Architect can advise the Contractor as to any special features that may require certain sequencing, but is not responsible for directing such work.

Question 197

When would the term “non-conforming use” apply?

a. Fireworks factory built in 1990; zoned H-3.
b. Industrial factory building built in 1920; currently zoned for residential.
c. School building built in 1985; zoned R3.
d. New construction of a commercial shopping center; zoned B.

Answer 197

Industrial factory building built in 1920; currently zoned for residential.

Notes:
An example of a non-conforming use would be an industrial factory building built in 1920, but today is in an area marked for residential or commercial zoning. In this case, the factory could be able to continue operating in that location.

Question 198

Why is erosion undesirable?

a. Depletes the topsoil of nutrients making it difficult to sustain plant life.
b. Destroys the microclimate of a site.
c. Can severely weaken the soil of a site and cause damage or failure to building foundations.
d. Pollutes the soil with debris from rivers and can contaminate the water table.

Answer 198

Can severely weaken the soil of a site and cause damage or failure to building foundations.

Notes:
Erosion is the natural process of soil and rock being removed from a site due to wind or water. Over time, excessive erosion can severely weaken the soil of a site cause damage or failure to building foundations.

Question 199

Which of the following includes many neighborhoods which are grouped together to form larger communities?

a. Master Planned Community
b. Neighborhood Theory
c. Neighborhood Community
d. Neighborhood Unit

Answer 199

Neighborhood Unit

Notes:
Other features of the Neighborhood Unit include: Three Neighborhoods group together to serve one high school and the maximum walking distance is one mile.

Question 200

What common building material used during the 1950’s and 60’s is now banned from construction?

a. Lead Paint
b. Galvanized plumbing
c. Asbestos
d. Aluminum wiring

Answer 200

Asbestos

Notes:
Asbestos, if disturbed, can cause serious health problems if inhaled and as a result, asbestos use faded out by the mid 1970s and was banned completely a few years later.

Question 201

What is a spread footing foundation?

a. A Spread Footing is used at the base of a pile to even distribute the load of the building.
b. A Spread Footing concentrates the weight of the building on the foundation.
c. A Spread Footing distributes the weight of the building directly to the soil.
d. A Spread Footing is another form of a mat slab foundation where the loads are spread across the foundation.

Answer 201

A Spread Footing distributes the weight of the building directly to the soil.

Notes:
The size of the footing is determined by dividing the load by the safe bearing capacity.

Question 202

Which of the following defines a standard accessible parking stall?

a. 9’x18’ with 5’ clear aisle for a standard stall and a 9’ clear aisle for van accessible parking.
b. 9’x19’ with 44” clear aisle for a standard stall and a 6’ clear aisle for van accessible parking.
c. 10’x19’ with 8’ clear aisle for a standard stall and a 9’ clear aisle for van accessible parking.
d. 8’x18’ with 6’ clear aisle for a standard stall and a 8’ clear aisle for van accessible parking.

Answer 202

9’x18’ with 5’ clear aisle for a standard stall and a 9’ clear aisle for van accessible parking.

Notes:
Accessible stalls generally require at least a 5’ clear aisle for a standard stall and a 9’ clear aisle for van accessible parking.

Question 203

Which of the following describes a Radial circulation system?

a. Circulation connects flow between two points, either along a single line or along a series of parallel lines.
b. Circulation flows at perpendicular angles.
c. Circulation flows in or out of a common center, with straight channels of circulation originating from this center point.
d. Circulation responds to the topography of land and follows its natural contours.

Answer 203

Circulation flows in or out of a common center, with straight channels of circulation originating from this center point.

Notes:
Radial - the radial system directs flow in or out of a common center, with straight channels of circulation radiating from this center point.

Question 204

What is required in order to obtain a building permit?

a. A guarantee from the architect that the plans are complete and will not be revised.
b. Approval from all the required agencies.
c. A signed letter from the contractor that the project will be built to the plans and specifications.
d. Approval from the Planning Department.

Answer 204

Approval from all the required agencies.

Notes:
The Building Permit can only be obtained after ALL agencies have signed off on the project.

Question 205

Which of Kevin Lynch’s five features of a common city describes centers of activity?

a. Nodes
b. Paths
c. Edges
d. Districts

Answer 205

Nodes

Notes:
Nodes are the centers of activity. These are often landmarks in which people can gather for a function. The can be the core of a district, such as a civic center or entertainment area, or a junction, such as intersection, plaza or public square.

Question 206

What is the difference between a retention and a detention basin?

a. They are the same.
b. Detention basins always contain water while Retention basins are dry except during storms.
c. Retention basins are natural while Detention basins are man-made.
d. Retention basins always contain water while Detention basins are dry except during storms.

Answer 206

Retention basins always contain water while Detention basins are dry except during storms.

Notes:
Retention Basin - used to manage stormwater runoff to prevent flooding and erosion. Always contains water with surrounding landscaping. Detention Basin - used as an overflow to manage stormwater runoff when other basins are full. Always dry except during storms.

Question 207

Which of the following is NOT a site circulation requirement to consider when addressing accessible design?

a. Walks should have a maximum gradient of 8% (1:12.5), and maximum cross gradient of 10% (1:10)
b. Ramps should be a minimum of 3 feet wide, and not exceed 30 feet in length. At landings a 5 feet long area should be provided.
c. Handrails should be located at each side of ramp if its rise is greater than 6 feet. A protective curb should be installed on the side where a ramp is above grade (to eliminate falling off).
d. All accessible paths of travel which cross into vehicular aisles are required to have detectable warning strips (i.e. truncated domes).

Answer 207

Walks should have a maximum gradient of 8% (1:12.5), and maximum cross gradient of 10% (1:10)

Notes:
Walks should have a maximum gradient of 5% (1:20), and maximum cross gradient of 2% (1:50)

Question 208

What is a sheepsfoot?

a. Horizontal boards used to shore up a building during foundation excavation.
b. A process to encourage quick sprouting of ground cover in areas at risk for erosion.
c. A tool used to compact soil.
d. A shallow excavation used to determine soil types on a site.

Answer 208

A tool used to compact soil.

Notes:
A sheepsfoot is a roller with large teeth used to tamper the soil during compaction.

Question 209

Define compaction.

a. Adding soils to a site in order to increase the weight on the soils. Lengthy process could take 6-12 months.
b. Use of water pumps to drain a high water table.
c. Trenching the soils on a site to support a foundation slab.
d. Compressing soils to release air trapped between the grains. Creates higher bearing capacity.

Answer 209

Compressing soils to release air trapped between the grains. Creates higher bearing capacity.

Notes:
Compaction is often performed using rollers or tampers to hammer the soils on the site and release trapped air.

Question 210

What type of foundation would be best suited for a site with clays and silts found in the soil?

a. A deep foundation
b. Clays and silts are not adequate soils for foundation construction.
c. A Mat Slab or Pile/Caisson foundation
d. A Stem Wall foundation

Answer 210

A Mat Slab or Pile/Caisson foundation

Notes:
Either a mat slab or pile/caisson foundation would be necessary for this site as the soils are not adequate to support the building.

Question 211

What is the primary reason for landscape design?

a. To make the building stand out from the landscape.
b. To add color to the exterior of a building.
c. To create areas of circulation and comfort.
d. To hide the building within the landscape.

Answer 211

To create areas of circulation and comfort.

Notes:
Landscape design is typically passive and is used for recreation, circulation and comfort.

Question 212

Which phase tends to require the largest percentage of the project budget?

a. Contract Documents
b. Bidding and Negotiation
c. Design Development
d. Schematic Design

Answer 212

Contract Documents

Notes:
Contract Documents Phase. This is often the longest of the 5 basic phases offered by the architect and so requires the most work and highest fee.

Question 213

Which site would be the best choice for a large building with several stories?

a. A site containing no humus, alluvium or loam.
b. A site containing some amounts of loam.
c. A site containing high amounts of humus.
d. A site containing alluvium from a nearby stream.

Answer 213

A site containing no humus, alluvium or loam.

Notes:
Alluvium, humus and loam are considered poor soils for building foundations due to their high amounts of organic matter, water, and/or silt & clay.

Question 214

What form of loan is most common for land purchases?

a. Deed of Trust
b. Fee Simple
c. Mortgage
d. CC&R

Answer 214

Mortgage

Notes:
Mortgage: a contract in which a buyer of a property borrows money from a bank or any other landing institution to purchase the property.

Question 215

Which of the following would describe the development of an area such as Southern California?

a. Star - a radiocentric city with open spaces between areas of development.
b. Rectilinear - typical pattern for most small cities and towns.
c. Constellation - group of urban developments, each with it’s own central core.
d. Super Block - large urban development which reduces the dependence on a car.

Answer 215

Constellation - group of urban developments, each with it’s own central core.

Notes:
Constellation - describes a group of urban developments of similar size, located fairly close to one another with no clear center. For example: the cities of Southern California.

Question 216

Define fenestration.

a. Refers to the mechanical equipment, such as HVAC.
b. Refers to welded wire fabric mesh used in foundations.
c. Refers to perimeter fencing around a property.
d. Refers to openings in a building such as windows and doors.

Answer 216

Refers to openings in a building such as windows and doors.

Notes:
Fenestration refers to openings in a building such as windows and doors. Glass is a poor insulator. Heat escapes through glass about 20 times greater than through an insulated wall. However, natural daylight through windows and skylights will reduce the need for artificial lighting, saving electricity and eliminating the heat from the light bulbs.

Question 217

Which foundation would likely be the most expensive?

a. Stem Wall
b. Driven Piles
c. Belled Caissons
d. Mat Slab

Answer 217

Mat Slab

Notes:
Mat foundations are used when the underlying strata is weak. It acts as one continuous foundation and is very costly due to the amount of material used.

Question 218

Which construction activity would best minimize disturbance to the site?

a. Sequencing and scheduling
b. Cost estimating
c. Grading the site
d. Providing staging areas for equipment

Answer 218

Sequencing and scheduling

Notes:
Construction should be phased to balance disturbance of soil and natural features on site to minimize and control erosion and sedimentation.

Question 219

Which of the following site features would help minimize disturbance of terrain?

a. Existing landscaping
b. Existing drainage swales
c. Existing buildings and hardscape
d. Existing landmarks

Answer 219

Existing landscaping

Notes:
Utilizing the existing landscape would help minimize disturbance of terrain around buildings or elsewhere on the site, thus reducing the possibility of destroying or damaging important landscape features or archeological resources.

Question 220

What is a Variance?

a. Another form of a Conditional Use permit
b. Allows buildings to be “grandfathered” in regarding zoning codes
c. Lowers the fees for plan check processing
d. Allows a building to deviate from some portion of a zoning code

Answer 220

Allows a building to deviate from some portion of a zoning code

Notes:
A variance is a request to deviate from some of the requirements of zoning (maximum height, minimum setbacks, etc.), because complying with these requirements would create financial hardship or practical construction challenges.

Question 221

What site elements could be used to effectively utilize passive cooling in a building?

a. Amount and location of sun exposure.
b. Ground surface coverage.
c. Prevailing wind patterns.
d. Location of plants and bodies of water.

Answer 221

Prevailing wind patterns.

Notes:
Designing to prevailing wind patterns allows for cross breezes and ample air flow through spaces when designed properly.

Question 222

What is Over-Improvement?

a. A property that is valued at less than the expense of improvements
b. A site with a density too high for the neighboring infrastructure to support it
c. A site with new construction that has maximized the buildable land
d. A property that has been completely remodeled or upgraded

Answer 222

A property that is valued at less than the expense of improvements

Notes:
The term over-improvement refers to a property in which the cost of improvement exceeds potential revenue or income.

Question 223

Which term describes the process in which a government can legally take property from a land owner?

a. Majority Rule
b. Force Majeure
c. Eminent Diplomacy
d. Eminent Domain

Answer 223

Eminent Domain

Notes:
If a property is needed to complete a public project, or required for the greater good, the owner may be required to relinquish his property to the government.

Question 224

What is the best use for graywater in a building?

a. Filtered water to be recycled into the building
b. Irrigation and toilet water
c. Washing water for laundry and showers
d. Potable drinking water

Answer 224

Irrigation and toilet water

Notes:
Graywater is considered non-potable (undrinkable). It can be used in toilets, irrigation using a drip system, or as a reserve for fire protection.

Question 225

Describe a Prescriptive Code.

a. A specific code used for hospital facilities
b. Elaborate form of code interpretation that requires a great amount of innovation
c. Relies on precise calculations to determine code compliance
d. Employs time tested techniques to determine code compliance

Answer 225

Employs time tested techniques to determine code compliance

Notes:
A code that specifies specific techniques, materials, and methods allowed for use. Simple to administer, but the specific code allows for no innovation.

Question 226

Define azimuth.

a. Determines how much sun in received on site in the morning compared to the afternoon.
b. The angle between the sun and the horizon.
c. Determines the amount of solar energy the site receives.
d. Sites in the Northern Hemisphere have more hours of sunlight in the summer than in the winter.

Answer 226

The angle between the sun and the horizon.

Notes:
Azimuth - the angle between the sun and the horizon. Summer sun has a larger azimuth than Winter sun.

Question 227

In what order does the Planning Department review the project during the permit approval process?

a. Planning reviews after the Building Department
b. Planning reviews after the Fire Department
c. Planning reviews last
d. Planning reviews first

Answer 227

Planning reviews first

Notes:
The Planning Department is generally the first step in the permit approval process. Most other agencies, such as Building and Safety, will not perform a plan check until after the Planning Department has completed their review.

Question 228

What causes glare within a building?

a. Glare is caused by too many windows and not enough electrical light within a space.
b. Glare is caused by having too much contrast.
c. Glare is caused by a lack of adequate light in a space.
d. Glare is caused by too much light in a space.

Answer 228

Glare is caused by having too much contrast.

Notes:
Glare is not caused by having too much light, but by having too much contrast. You experience glare when looking at a bright computer screen in a dark room (while that same screen would be easier to see if the room lights were on.)

Question 229

What happens during the Entitlement Phase?

a. Schematic design documents are reviewed for compliance with local agencies
b. Building permits are approved
c. Design documents are reviewed for approval
d. First plan check comments are received

Answer 229

Design documents are reviewed for approval

Notes:
In this phase, we are trying to obtain permission/approval for our project prior to producing construction documents.

Question 230

Which of the following are NOT basic types of above ground site drainage?

a. Storm sewer
b. Sheet flow
c. Ground swales
d. Gutters

Answer 230

Storm sewer

Notes:
Above ground - involves sheet flow (the drainage of water across a sloping surface), gutters built into roadways and parking areas, ground swales and channels.

Question 231

How much area is required in order for a person to easily move around the site?

a. 15 square feet
b. 20 square feet
c. 13 square feet
d. 25 square feet

Answer 231

13 square feet

Notes:
In order to stand comfortably and move about easily a total of 13 square feet per person is required.

Question 232

Your project program specifies that the site must receive full sun in the winter. What type of tree would be best suited for this condition?

a. Spruce
b. Italian Cypress
c. Conifer
d. Oak

Answer 232

Oak

Notes:
Deciduous trees have leaves that fall in the Autumn and expose bare branches through the Winter allowing sun to pass into a building.

Question 233

Which advantage of adaptive reuse would be defined as Sustainability?

a. Existing buildings provide charm and history in connection to their place.
b. Existing buildings help preserve the history and connection to a place.
c. Existing buildings greatly reduce the amount of waste and new materials consumed in the project.
d. Existing buildings could provide a level of craftsmanship no longer available or affordable today.

Answer 233

Existing buildings greatly reduce the amount of waste and new materials consumed in the project.

Notes:
Reusing existing buildings greatly reduces the amount of waste and new materials consumed in the project. In addition, reuse also reduces sprawl.

Question 234

Which of the following is NOT a factor that should be considered when designing roads through a site?

a. Road alignment must be designed to conform to the natural topography of the area.
b. Parking lanes are 8 feet wide for parallel parking and 16 feet to 20 feet for perpendicular or angled parking.
c. Roads should be designed with intermittent swales for water drainage.
d. Streets with heavier traffic are designed with a six inch curb and gutter.

Answer 234

Roads should be designed with intermittent swales for water drainage.

Notes:
Roads are designed with crowns to allow water to drain along each side of the road. The crown creates a slight concave shape to the road so water will not pool.

Question 235

What is a “brownfield”?

a. A site containing potentially hazardous materials.
b. A site containing no landscaping.
c. A site located near a landfill.
d. A site located near a desert.

Answer 235

A site containing potentially hazardous materials.

Notes:
Brownfields are abandoned or vacant industrial and commercial sites that may contain a dangerous (unacceptable) level of contaminants in the ground which could affect groundwater in the area. Examples include abandoned oil or gas tanks, old gas stations, and presence of asbestos in older buildings.

Question 236

What of the following factors does NOT affect land use and value?

a. Utility locations
b. Access to the land
c. Topography
d. Location of water table

Answer 236

Location of water table

Notes:
Additional factors contributing to land value are: topography, access to the land, zoning, utilities & adjacent uses

Question 237

Architects are required to conduct themselves in accordance with the moral code established in the Architect’s Practice Act. Which moral value is essential to well thought out design?

a. The architect should disregard the suggestions of the client and design the building as he/she knows it will work.
b. The architect should see the design as an opportunity to demonstrate their brilliance as an artist.
c. The architect should study and copy previous designs from other architects to save time.
d. The architect should approach the design with integrity, honesty, and wholeness throughout.

Answer 237

The architect should approach the design with integrity, honesty, and wholeness throughout.

Notes:
The Architect’s Practice Act defines the moral code by which architects must practice.

Question 238

Which survey is used most often in site planning?

a. Geodetic: this type of survey takes into account the spherical shape of the Earth.
b. Plane: this survey presents the site as a flat plane.
c. Possession: this is an “as-built” survey that documents the project.
d. Construction: this survey shows the exact conditions of the site.

Answer 238

Plane: this survey presents the site as a flat plane.

Notes:
Plane: this survey presents the site as a flat plane. Although technically distorted, this is the one used most often.

Question 239

Who is responsible for the urban planning of Washington D.C.?

a. Frank Lloyd Wright
b. L’Enfant
c. Vitruvius
d. Mies Van de Rohe

Answer 239

L’Enfant

Notes:
L’Enfant (from Paris) 1791. The final plan was a composition of civic art with a working grid connected through a series of axes, vistas and diagonal boulevards. This created a geometry in which to locate important civic monuments and key buildings.

Question 240

How would your perception change in a long, narrow space?

a. Causes confusion and disorientation to people as they move through the space.
b. Has no directional axis, people would tend to look upward.
c. Has no directional axis, people would tend to look down.
d. Implies an axis down the length of the space, and this would direct people to look and walk in that direction.

Answer 240

Implies an axis down the length of the space, and this would direct people to look and walk in that direction.

Notes:
The shape of a space can indicate to people how they should move through it. For example, a long narrow space implies an axis down the length of the space, and this would direct people to look and walk in that direction.

Question 241

What can you do to drastically lower the cost of site development and improvement for a project?

a. Hire a geologist to determine the best foundation for the site.
b. Decrease the site density to create fewer buildings and more landscaping.
c. Increase the density of the units on the site, which will enable them to share utilities and roadways.
d. Use solar panels to reduce the building’s reliance on electricity.

Answer 241

Increase the density of the units on the site, which will enable them to share utilities and roadways.

Notes:
By increasing the density of the units on the site, you lower the individual construction costs for each unit. The shared walls, utilities, sewer system, parking and roadways save the cost of providing that for each unit.

Question 242

Define Macroclimate.

a. Refers to the general climate of the overall region
b. Refers to the climate of the northern or southern hemisphere.
c. Refers to the comfort level within a building.
d. Refers to the specific local conditions of the site.

Answer 242

Refers to the general climate of the overall region

Notes:
A Macroclimate refers to the general climate of the overall region, such as the Southwestern states or the East coast.

Question 243

What zoning restriction would regulate rooftop features on a building?

a. Setbacks and easements
b. Building Height
c. Right-of-way
d. Building Area

Answer 243

Building Height

Notes:
Penthouses, fan rooms, and skylights are sometimes allowed to exceed height restrictions.

Question 244

Which term describes the effect the weight of water has when forced against an object by gravity?

a. Hydrostatic Pressure
b. Capillary Action
c. Soil erosion
d. Percolation

Answer 244

Hydrostatic Pressure

Notes:
Hydrostatic pressure is caused when the weight of water is forced against an object by gravity. Since water is very heavy, the more water that presses against a foundation, the greater the pressure due to gravity. This can cause weaknesses in the foundation and will require additional strength and reinforcement in order to avoid potential problems.

Question 245

Define thermal mass.

a. A material’s ability to allow light and air transfer into a building
b. A material’s ability to absorb heat and cold
c. A material’s ability to insulate a building
d. A material’s ability to transfer heat and cold

Answer 245

A material’s ability to absorb heat and cold

Notes:
The ability of a material to store temperature is referred to as thermal mass. If insulation is how a material is able to hold in temperature, thermal mass is the ability of a material to absorb and store temperature.

Question 246

Which item is typically reviewed by the Planning Department during the plan check process?

a. Accessibility Guidelines
b. Health Standards
c. Building height and setbacks
d. Sanitation Requirements

Answer 246

Building height and setbacks

Notes:
The Building Department will review for Accessibility Guidelines, Health Standards and Sanitation Requirements.

Question 247

Which of the following ensures incompatible types of building uses do not disturb residents?

a. Zoning Codes
b. Building Codes
c. Environmental Codes
d. Fire Codes

Answer 247

Zoning Codes

Notes:
Other zoning code concerns include: Protect local residents from undesirable types of business; protect the access to direct sunlight and fresh air; protect the amount of open space for local residents.

Question 248

Describe how to determine the grade or slope of a site.

a. Determine the speed at which water flows downhill
b. Divide the run by the rise
c. Divide the rise by the run
d. Divide the run by the angle of repose of the soil

Answer 248

Divide the rise by the run

Notes:
g = V/H(100) g = the grade of slope V = the rise or vertical distance H = the run or horizontal distance. Multiply by 100 to convert into a percentage.

Question 249

What is Life Cycle Analysis?

a. The analysis of existing flora and fauna on the site
b. The analysis of the life cycle of a building product
c. The analysis of the history of a site
d. The analysis of the life span of a building

Answer 249

The analysis of the life cycle of a building product

Notes:
Life cycle assessment (LCA) is an analysis of the entire environmental impact of a material or product throughout its’ entire life.

Question 250

What is CPM?

a. Civil Project Manager
b. Corrosion Protection Management
c. Critical Plumbing & Mechanical
d. Critical Path Method

Answer 250

Critical Path Method

Notes:
CPM (Critical Path Method) - The path with the longest required time is the Critical Path and the activities on that path are called Critical Activities. Reducing the critical path reduces the whole schedule and increases job costs but decreases overhead costs.

Question 251

Which items are included on a topographic survey?

a. Proposed site features
b. Proposed topography grading
c. Site datum point
d. Slab plan dimensions

Answer 251

Site datum point

Notes:
Topographic survey: uses dashed lines to indicate the topography and elevation above a set base point (called a datum) or above sea level.

Question 252

Which subsurface condition would NOT affect the foundation design?

a. Presence of soft clay
b. Presence of underground streams
c. Fine water-bearing sand or loose silt
d. A south facing slope

Answer 252

A south facing slope

Notes:
Other conditions that could effect foundation design include: Evidence of slides or sinking earth; Areas of recent fills such as garbage dumps; Rock formations close to the surface of the ground; Presence of swamps or peat.

Question 253

What is the definition of dampproofing?

a. Protection of structures below water table.
b. Creates a continuous seal over walls, slabs and joints in the structure.
c. Control of moisture that is NOT under hydrostatic pressure.
d. Control of moisture and water that is subject to hydrostatic pressure.

Answer 253

Control of moisture that is NOT under hydrostatic pressure.

Notes:
Most typical use of term is for protection of slabs and foundation walls below grade that are subject to continuous exposure to moisture.

Question 254

Name the three characteristics of a Planned Unit Development.

a. Allows for private use; usually a cheaper development option due to high density; generally has a very short construction schedule.
b. Small in scale; uses only one occupancy type; completed as one entire project.
c. All units are identical in floor plan; generally uses a small piece of land; very expensive due to higher density.
d. Large in scale; utilizes mixed use of occupancies; completed in phases over an extended schedule.

Answer 254

Large in scale; utilizes mixed use of occupancies; completed in phases over an extended schedule.

Notes:
Large Scale: a PUD typically involves the development of a large project, such as an entire block, neighborhood or town. Mixed Use: unlike a residential development, a PUD usually involves a mix of building types and uses. Done in Phases: given the scale and scope of such developments, a PUD is often planned and built in phases, over an extended period of time. Changes may be made to future phases in response to evolving community needs, changing economic demands or new planning regulation.

Question 255

According to Clarence Perry, which is NOT one of the six elements that must exist for a neighborhood to function properly?

a. Interior streets use a cul-de-sac and curvilinear layout.
b. No major traffic routes pass through the neighborhood.
c. Commercial center becomes focal point of neighborhood.
d. Population of neighborhood determined by number of people required to support one elementary school.

Answer 255

Commercial center becomes focal point of neighborhood.

Notes:
Other elements include: Elementary school becomes focal point of neighborhood; Neighborhood occupies approximately 160 acres at a density of 10 families per acre; Neighborhood is served by shopping centers, churches, etc. and does not require further than a half mile walk to school.

Question 256

What foundation would be best for a site with a high water table?

a. A stemwall foundation.
b. A raised foundation.
c. A mat slab or pile foundation.
d. A lowered foundation.

Answer 256

A mat slab or pile foundation.

Notes:
If the water table is located less than 6’ below the surface, this is considered high and will limit foundation design. A mat slab or pile foundation may be necessary in order to evenly distribute the loads of the building on site.

Question 257

Why are lower density developments typically more expensive than higher density developments?

a. Either density development are approximately the same in terms of cost.
b. High density planning is actually more expensive because more people are occupying the space.
c. Low density planning requires the infrastructure to be more spread out, less efficient and, therefore, more expensive.
d. Low density developments have larger yards which require more landscaping and water usage.

Answer 257

Low density planning requires the infrastructure to be more spread out, less efficient and, therefore, more expensive.

Notes:
Density affects the cost of the development. Low density planning requires the infrastructure to be more spread out, less efficient and, therefore, more expensive. The number of people served by each foot of sewer pipe, utility line, roadway and street lamp is much lower, demanding more expense.

Question 258

Which of the following is an example of a building designed with the human scale in mind?

a. A large, towering office building with 10’ high doors and large spans of glass.
b. A narrow space with low ceilings and doors that block hallways when open.
c. A library with intimate study rooms as well as a large atrium with a clear hierarchy of space.
d. A quaint cottage with short and narrow doorways, small rooms, and few windows.

Answer 258

A library with intimate study rooms as well as a large atrium with a clear hierarchy of space.

Notes:
Scale describes the scale of the elements to a person, such as the “human scale”.

Question 259

What typical building appliance consumes the largest quantity of energy?

a. Furnace
b. Water heater
c. Forced air unit
d. Air conditioner

Answer 259

Water Heater

Notes:
Nearly 20 percent of all of the energy used in your home goes just to your water heater.

Question 260

What is the most critical consideration that should be given for exterior building materials?

a. Color and texture
b. Recycled content
c. Durability and longevity
d. Construction quality

Answer 260

Durability and longevity

Notes:
Durable materials must be able to withstand the elements and should be selected to extend the useful life of the materials.