Building Technology - Past Board Exam

Granite is commonly used in countertops due to its durability, heat resistance, and aesthetic appeal. It is a natural stone that is known for its hardness and strength, making it an ideal material for kitchen and bathroom countertops. Granite also comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing homeowners to choose a design that suits their style and preferences. Additionally, granite is resistant to stains and scratches, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas like countertops.

S2S stands for "smooth on 2 sides." This means that the lumber has been planed or sanded to create a smooth surface on two opposite sides, while the remaining two sides may still be rough or unfinished. This type of lumber is commonly used in projects where both sides of the wood will be visible, such as furniture or cabinetry, as it provides a more polished and finished appearance.

The correct answer is "double lock door" because having two locks on the main door provides an extra layer of security. It makes it harder for intruders to break in as they would need to overcome both locks. This additional lock adds an extra level of protection and gives homeowners peace of mind knowing that their property is more secure.

Riprap is the correct answer because it is a commonly used method to prevent soil erosion on creeks. Riprap refers to a layer of large rocks or stones that are placed along the banks of a creek or river to protect the soil from being washed away by the force of the water. The rocks create a barrier that absorbs the energy of the flowing water, preventing it from eroding the soil and causing damage to the creek's banks. This technique is effective in stabilizing the soil and maintaining the integrity of the creek's ecosystem.

Reflective glass is the correct answer because it allows for the viewing of the exterior during the day, while also reflecting the viewer's own reflection at night. This type of glass has a special coating that reflects light and reduces glare, making it ideal for maintaining privacy while still allowing for a view during the day. At night, when the interior is lit, the reflective coating prevents people from seeing inside, creating a mirror-like effect.

In fire exits, panel doors with panic bars are commonly used. These doors are designed to allow easy and quick evacuation in case of emergencies. The panic bar is a horizontal bar installed on the inside of the door, which can be pushed to open the door easily without the need for turning a handle or using a key. This ensures that people can quickly exit the building without any obstacles or delays, improving safety during fire emergencies.

The word "hulog" is the only one that makes sense in the given context of being used in vertical alignment. "Astragal" refers to a type of molding, "batidura" is a Spanish word meaning "knowledge," and "metros" refers to a unit of measurement. Only "hulog" can be associated with the concept of something being dropped or falling vertically.

MDF, or medium-density fiberboard, is a type of engineered wood product that is commonly used in cabinets. It is made by combining wood fibers with resin and then pressing them together under high heat and pressure. MDF has a smooth and uniform surface, making it ideal for painting or veneering. It is also strong and durable, making it suitable for use in cabinets where strength and stability are important. Additionally, MDF is less expensive than solid wood, making it a popular choice for cabinet construction.

Using tinted glass in a glass building renovation helps to minimize the heat generated inside the building. Tinted glass has a special coating that reduces the amount of heat and glare from the sun that enters the building. This can help to keep the interior cooler and more comfortable, while also reducing the need for excessive air conditioning and energy consumption.

An acetylene torch is used in welding, which is a common method of joining steel. It produces a high-temperature flame that can melt the steel surfaces, allowing them to fuse together when cooled. This makes the acetylene torch an effective tool for joining steel.

Tempered glass is the correct answer because it is commonly used in commercial establishments due to its safety features. Tempered glass is manufactured by heating regular glass and then rapidly cooling it, which creates a stronger and more durable material. This type of glass is designed to break into small, rounded pieces instead of sharp shards, reducing the risk of injury in case of breakage. It is therefore preferred in commercial settings where safety is a priority, such as storefronts, office buildings, and restaurants.

Tile adhesive is the correct answer because it is specifically designed to bond ceramic tiles on walls and floors. It provides a strong and durable bond, ensuring that the tiles remain in place even under heavy foot traffic or moisture exposure. Contact cement is a type of adhesive, but it is not typically used for bonding ceramic tiles. Grout is used to fill the gaps between tiles after they have been installed, and lead is a metal material that is not used for bonding tiles.

The correct answer is excavation. When applying for a Building Permit, one of the activities that can be done and is allowed by the OBO (Office of the Building Official) is excavation. This refers to the process of digging or removing soil or rock from a site in order to create a foundation or prepare the ground for construction.

An astragal is a type of molding or strip that is used on the meeting edge of a pair of doors to prevent smoke from entering the room. It helps to create a seal between the doors, preventing any gaps or openings that smoke could pass through. The other options, batidura, hulog, and metros, do not have any specific relevance to preventing smoke from entering a room.

The correct answer is "lock inside." This suggests that there is a lock mechanism located inside the T&B (presumably referring to a room or a container). This type of lock provides an additional layer of security, as it is not easily accessible or visible from the outside. It implies that the lock is designed to prevent unauthorized access and protect the contents within the T&B.

Drywall is not typically used as an exterior wall material due to its vulnerability to moisture damage. Drywall is made of gypsum board, which can easily absorb water and become damaged when exposed to rain or high humidity. In contrast, materials such as 6" CHB (concrete hollow blocks), retaining walls, and shear walls are commonly used for exterior walls as they are more durable and resistant to weather conditions.

A double action door is used for the kitchen. This type of door is designed to swing in both directions, allowing for easy access and movement between the kitchen and other areas. It is commonly used in commercial kitchens or spaces where there is a high volume of foot traffic. The double action feature allows for efficient flow and prevents any obstruction or inconvenience when carrying items in and out of the kitchen.

Roof deck waterproofing has a five-year warranty because it is a material specifically designed to protect the roof deck from water damage. This warranty ensures that the waterproofing material will effectively prevent water from penetrating the roof deck for a period of five years. This is important as water damage can lead to structural issues and costly repairs. Having a warranty provides peace of mind to the consumer, knowing that they are protected against any potential defects or failures in the waterproofing material for a specified period of time.

A router is a tool commonly used to shape balusters. It is equipped with a rotating blade that can be adjusted to different depths and angles, allowing for precise and intricate cuts. This makes it ideal for creating the intricate designs and patterns often found on balusters. A jigsaw, handsaw, and chainsaw are not typically used for this purpose, as they are better suited for other types of cutting tasks.

A steep gable roof on metal framing would be the best choice for a heavy forested area. This type of roof is designed to shed rain and snow quickly, preventing any buildup that could potentially damage the roof. The steep slope also helps to minimize the accumulation of leaves, branches, and other debris that are common in forested areas. Additionally, the metal framing provides durability and strength, which is important in areas with heavy tree coverage where falling branches could pose a risk to the roof.

Palotsina is not commonly used as a construction material because it is a type of wood that is not as strong or durable as other options. Mahogany, coconut, and yacal are all commonly used for construction purposes due to their strength, durability, and resistance to decay. However, palotsina is not as reliable for structural purposes and is therefore not commonly used in construction projects.

The board foot of a piece of lumber is calculated by multiplying the thickness (in inches), width (in inches), and length (in feet) and then dividing the result by 12. In this case, the thickness is 2 inches, the width is 2 inches, and the length is 10 feet. So, the calculation would be (2 x 2 x 10) / 12 = 3.33 board feet. Therefore, the answer of 500 is incorrect.

Steel wires are not used in joining concrete. Dowels, anchor bolts, and expansion bolts are commonly used in construction to join and secure concrete structures. Steel wires, on the other hand, are typically used for reinforcement purposes in concrete, such as in reinforced concrete beams or columns. They are not used as a primary method of joining concrete elements together.

The heat roofing material should be placed over the rafter. Placing it over the rafter ensures that the heat is effectively trapped and insulated within the roofing system. This helps to prevent heat loss and maintain a comfortable temperature inside the building. Placing the heat roofing material under the rafter or on the ceiling would not provide the same level of insulation and may result in heat escaping through the roof.

Glass blocks are a type of glass that can redirect the sun's reflection. They are made with a patterned or textured surface that can scatter or diffuse the sunlight, preventing it from reflecting in a concentrated beam. This makes glass blocks useful for applications such as windows or walls where the redirection of sunlight is desired for aesthetic or practical reasons, such as reducing glare or providing privacy. Float glass, plate glass, and tempered glass do not have the same patterned surface as glass blocks, and therefore cannot redirect the sun's reflection in the same way.

PVC is a type of plastic material that is often used as a substitute for wood in various applications. It can be molded and shaped to resemble the texture and appearance of wood, making it a popular choice for items such as furniture, flooring, and outdoor decking. PVC is durable, moisture-resistant, and does not require the same level of maintenance as real wood, making it a practical alternative.

Primer is applied on steel before painting to enhance adhesion between the paint and the steel surface. It creates a smooth and even base for the paint to adhere to, ensuring better coverage and durability of the paint job. Without a primer, the paint may not adhere properly to the steel surface, leading to peeling, cracking, or flaking over time. While preventing rust is also an important benefit of using primer, the main purpose of applying primer on steel before painting is to improve adhesion.

Using a 6" chb (concrete hollow block) as a partition for the T&B (toilet and bath) at the second floor would be an effective solution to reduce the sound generated from flushing the toilet in the bedrooms. The solid and dense nature of the concrete block would help to block and absorb the sound waves, minimizing the noise transmission.

A sliding window is designed horizontally, featuring sashes that move side to side instead of up and down. This horizontal configuration not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also makes these windows perfect for promoting increased ventilation. Additionally, they are user-friendly when it comes to cleaning.

The best location for the soil stack in a building is away from the exterior wall. Placing it away from the exterior wall helps to prevent potential issues such as leaks or damage to the stack due to weather conditions. It also allows for easier access and maintenance of the stack, as it is not obstructed by the exterior wall. Additionally, locating the soil stack away from the exterior wall helps to minimize the risk of odors or gases from the stack entering the building.

The best thickness of gravel bedding is 20. This thickness is likely the most suitable for providing adequate support and stability for whatever is being placed on top of it. A thickness of 10 may be too thin and not provide enough support, while a thickness of 30 may be excessive and unnecessary. A thickness of 15 may also be sufficient, but 20 is likely the optimal choice.

The correct answer is to provide a big balcony. This is because the building is being erected in a coastal area, and having a big balcony would allow the residents to enjoy the scenic views and fresh ocean air. Additionally, a big balcony can also serve as an outdoor space for relaxation and entertainment purposes, making it a desirable feature for the building.

A sliding window is a type of window that can be opened horizontally by sliding one panel over the other. This type of window is designed with tracks and rollers that allow for smooth movement. In this context, the explanation suggests that the given window needs to have its edges embedded on openings, which aligns with the functionality of a sliding window. Therefore, the correct answer is sliding window.

Metal roofing is the best choice for a building that will be erected on a hilltop because it is durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Metal roofs are resistant to fire, wind, and hail, making them ideal for hilltop locations where the building may be exposed to strong winds. Additionally, metal roofs have a longer lifespan compared to other roofing materials, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements. The use of metal roofing will ensure that the building is well-protected and can withstand the unique challenges of being situated on a hilltop.