BC Ch. 3 Terms

Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of wallboard in construction?

To serve as a structural support

To act as a decorative feature

To provide the surface finish of a building (correct)

To provide thermal insulation

What is the role of an architect in building construction?

An individual who designs buildings and often supervises construction (correct)

A contractor responsible for plumbing systems

A specialist in landscape design

A person who installs electrical wiring

What is an admixture in concrete construction?

A material other than water, aggregate, and cement used as an ingredient in concrete or mortar (correct)

A type of reinforcement bar

A natural stone used for decoration

A waterproofing agent

What is aggregate in a cement mixture?

Any variety of materials, such as sand and gravel, added to a cement mixture to make concrete Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in building regulations?

To include regulations requiring areas of refuge for disabled people in multistory buildings Signup and view all the answers

What are the characteristics of aluminum in construction?

Lightweight, malleable, nonmagnetic, noncombustible, with good conductivity and a low melting point Signup and view all the answers

What is an area of refuge in a building?

A location within a building that provides safety for people during emergencies Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes aluminum's properties as a construction material?

It is lightweight and nonmagnetic with good conductivity. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a common use of admixtures in concrete?

To improve the workability and durability of the concrete Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of a fire protection engineer?

The design of fire protection systems, including sprinklers and fire alarms Signup and view all the answers

What type of work does a fire alarm/security system contractor primarily oversee?

All fire and security alarm installation Signup and view all the answers

What is a fire partition designed to accomplish in building construction?

Prevent the spread of fire within a building Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly defines the role of a fireproofing contractor?

To apply fire protection measures to steel structures Signup and view all the answers

What key function does the foundation of a building serve?

To transmit and anchor loads to the ground Signup and view all the answers

What does formwork in construction primarily refer to?

Temporary structures supporting construction work Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes galvanized cold-formed steel members?

Lightweight steel members coated with zinc Signup and view all the answers

In the context of construction, what does the term 'framing' typically refer to?

The system of timber work that supports structures Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a folded plate in construction?

As a structural element enhancing roof strength Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of a general contractor in a construction project?

To oversee all site work and ensure project completion Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a concrete masonry unit (CMU)?

A structural element used for load-bearing Signup and view all the answers

What defines cold-drawn steel's application in construction?

Used for bracing or tensioning applications Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'cells' refer to in concrete construction?

The hollow parts within concrete blocks Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes a composite material in construction?

Multiple materials that work together as one Signup and view all the answers

What is a pivotal function of construction safety regulations?

To protect workers from hazards and accidents Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of building codes in construction?

They set minimum standards for health and safety Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes corrugation in construction materials?

Grooved materials often used for structural applications Signup and view all the answers

What role does an electrical contractor play in a construction project?

Oversee all electrical installations Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a dewatering pump in construction?

To remove excess water from the site Signup and view all the answers

What does 'cured' mean regarding concrete?

Hardened to full strength through a process Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a boom in construction equipment?

Fixed arm of a crane for lifting Signup and view all the answers

What is a caisson in building construction?

A structural shaft extending to bedrock Signup and view all the answers

What does a civil engineer primarily specialize in?

Creating infrastructures like roads and parking areas Signup and view all the answers

What role does falsework play in construction?

Temporary support structures during construction Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of a general contractor?

Overseeing and managing all construction activities on the site Signup and view all the answers

In what construction application is gypsum extensively used?

Manufacturing wallboard and plaster Signup and view all the answers

What additional safety measures do insurance regulations generally mandate in construction?

Enhanced fire protection exceeding local building codes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes 'interior finish' in a construction context?

The visible surfaces on walls, ceilings, and floors Signup and view all the answers

What best defines an Intermodal Steel Building Unit (ISBU)?

A container made of metal used for building purposes Signup and view all the answers

In terms of construction equipment, what does the term 'jib' refer to?

The lifting arm that extends from a crane's boom Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a lightweight wood truss?

A collection of lightweight wood structural components joined in a triangular configuration to support floors or roofs Signup and view all the answers

In metallurgy, what does malleable mean?

The property of a metal that allows it to be shaped by bending, hammering, or extruding without cracking Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a masonry unit?

The type of masonry, such as bricks or concrete blocks, used on a given structure Signup and view all the answers

What does a mechanical engineer specialize in within the construction industry?

Designing heating, ventilation, air-conditioning systems, and plumbing of a building Signup and view all the answers

What defines a mobile crane?

A crane mounted on a truck or crawler allowing it to move across the ground to a desired location Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary process involved in modular construction?

A technique in which prefabricated modules are transported to and assembled at a construction site Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes oriented strand board (OSB)?

A type of board made of layers of strands of wood cut from logs, with a consistent width-to-length ratio Signup and view all the answers

What role does a plumbing contractor fulfill in construction?

To oversee the installation of plumbing within a building Signup and view all the answers

What do plumbing, mechanical, and electrical codes primarily regulate?

The installation of domestic water, sanitary systems, air-handling systems, smoke control systems, and electrical systems Signup and view all the answers

How is plywood constructed in a way that enhances its strength?

Wood panels manufactured with the grain of alternate plies laid at right angles for equal strength in either direction Signup and view all the answers

What is Portland cement mortar primarily known for?

The most common type of cement, which becomes a hydrated solid when mixed with water Signup and view all the answers

What does progressive collapse imply in structural engineering?

Extensive structural failure initiated by local structural damage or a chain reaction of failures Signup and view all the answers

How is quarried stone typically utilized in construction?

As natural stones like granite, marble, limestone, and sandstone used in walls and foundations Signup and view all the answers

What role do rakers serve in construction?

Braced sheeting used in soil walls to protect against collapse Signup and view all the answers

What function does structural steel serve in construction?

Steel rolled in various shapes for load-bearing members Signup and view all the answers

What does seismic protection aim to achieve in building construction?

It stabilizes structures to resist earthquake damage. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the purpose of an architectural scale?

To measure distance on blueprints accurately Signup and view all the answers

What is a slurry wall in construction?

A foundation wall filled temporarily with liquid slurry Signup and view all the answers

What role do subcontractors typically play in construction?

They handle specific tasks assigned by the primary contractor. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of specifications in building construction?

To detail required equipment and devices for projects Signup and view all the answers

What does 'spall' refer to in the context of masonry?

A fragment chipped from a masonry unit's surface Signup and view all the answers

What are thermal pane windows designed to do?

Provide energy efficiency through insulating properties Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'substructure' refer to in construction?

The foundational elements below ground level Signup and view all the answers

What type of material is classified as thermoplastic?

Material that can be reshaped repeatedly when heated Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of a sprinkler contractor?

To design and oversee fire safety systems in buildings Signup and view all the answers

What defines a thermoset material?

Plastic that burns but does not flow Signup and view all the answers

What is a tieback in construction used for?

To brace soil walls and prevent collapse Signup and view all the answers

What is a common application of the materials known as admixtures?

To improve the properties of concrete mixtures Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Wallboard in Construction

Wallboard, also known as drywall or gypsum board, is a crucial material in modern construction.
It consists of a large, rigid sheet made primarily of gypsum, sandwiched between two layers of thick paper.
Typically fastened to the framing of a building, wallboard provides a smooth surface finish ideal for painting, wallpapering, or other decorative treatments.
It serves as a critical component in interior walls and ceilings, offering both functionality and aesthetics in residential and commercial structures.
Wallboard contributes to fire resistance, soundproofing, and thermal insulation properties of buildings.
Installation process involves measuring, cutting, and securing the sheets in place, followed by taping and finishing for a seamless appearance.
Environmentally friendly options are available, such as recycled content wallboards, promoting sustainability in construction practices.

Admixture

Admixtures are materials added to concrete or mortar, other than water, aggregate, and cement, to enhance properties.

Aggregate

Aggregate consists of various materials, like sand and gravel, incorporated into a cement mixture to form concrete.

Aluminum

In construction, aluminum is valued for being lightweight, malleable, nonmagnetic, noncombustible, with excellent conductivity and a low melting point.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

ADA regulations mandate areas of refuge in multistory buildings to ensure safety and accessibility for disabled individuals.

Architect

An architect designs buildings and often supervises the construction process, overseeing structural integrity and aesthetics.

Area of Refuge

An area of refuge is a fire-rated space, separated by smoke barriers that provide a safe environment during a fire emergency.

Boom

A boom refers to the fixed length or telescoping arm of a crane used to lift and move objects on construction sites.

Brick

Brick is a solid or hollow masonry unit made from clay mixed with sand, formed into a rectangular shape for building purposes.

Building Code

Building codes set standards for the design and construction of new buildings, ensuring minimum levels of health, safety, and fire protection.

Caisson

A caisson is a concrete shaft placed under building columns or walls, reaching down to bedrock for structural support.

Cells in Concrete

Cells refer to the hollow sections within the core of a concrete block, which contribute to lightness and insulation properties.

Civil Engineer

Civil engineers specialize in designing infrastructure elements like parking lots, drainage systems, and roadways.

Cold-Drawn Steel

Cold-drawn steel is commonly used in cables for structural support and tensioning systems in construction, aiding in structural integrity.

Composite Material

A composite material is composed of different parts or materials designed to function as a single unit, enhancing performance and durability.

Concrete Masonry Unit (CMU)

Concrete masonry units (CMUs) are precast hollow or solid blocks used in construction, often referred to as cinder blocks.

Construction Safety Regulations

Construction safety regulations encompass occupational health and safety principles aimed at preventing falls and protecting workers from injuries.

Corrugation

Corrugation involves creating grooved, ridged material, typically from metal, to add strength and durability in construction applications.

Crosslot Bracing

Crosslot bracing transfers lateral earth pressures between opposing walls through the use of compressive struts, stabilizing structures.

Cured Concrete

"Cured" indicates that concrete has reached its hardened state, achieving full strength after hydration.

Dewatering Pump

A dewatering pump removes excess water from excavated areas, facilitating dry conditions for construction work.

Electrical Contractor

An electrical contractor supervises and manages all electrical installation aspects within a building project.

Electrical Engineer

Electrical engineers focus on the design and implementation of lighting, power, telecommunications, and emergency systems in structures.

Falsework

Falsework is temporary support, including shoring and formwork, that aids construction while the permanent structure is being built.

Fire Alarm/Security System Contractor

This contractor oversees the installation of fire and security alarm systems, ensuring safety measures are in place.

Fire Code

Fire codes regulate activities in existing buildings, focusing on the maintenance of fire safety features and safe storage practices.

Fire Partition

A fire partition is a fire-rated assembly that divides space within a building to contain and slow the spread of fire.

Fireproofing Contractor

A fireproofing contractor applies fire-resistant materials to structural elements, enhancing fire safety in building construction.

Fire Protection Engineer

Fire protection engineers design comprehensive fire protection systems, including sprinklers and alarms, to safeguard structures.

Folded Plate

Folded plates are structural elements that reinforce roofs over large spans, providing strength with a lightweight design.

Footing

A footing is a thick, reinforced concrete pad that supports piers or columns, transferring their loads to the ground.

Formwork

Formwork comprises temporary structures that support concrete until it is set, also referred to as falsework.

Foundation

Foundations transmit loads from the superstructure down to the earth or rock, typically located below ground level.

Framing

Framing refers to the construction of rough timber structures that provide support and define the layout of a building.

Galvanized Cold-Formed Steel Members

These members are lightweight, pressed or rolled steel coated with zinc to prevent corrosion, used in a variety of construction applications.

General Contractor

A general contractor is responsible for overseeing all aspects of a construction project, ensuring completion and compliance with plans.

General Contractor

A general contractor is the prime contractor responsible for overseeing overall construction work on site.

Gypsum

Gypsum is primarily used in the manufacture of wallboard (drywall) and plaster in construction.

Insurance Regulations

Insurance regulations typically require more fire protection for structures than local building and fire codes mandate.

Interior Finish

"Interior finish" refers to the exposed material on walls, ceilings, or floors within a building.

Intermodal Steel Building Unit (ISBU)

An intermodal steel building unit (ISBU) is a metal shipping container utilized in construction.

Jib

In construction equipment, a jib is the articulated lifting arm located at the end of a boom.

Lightweight Wood Truss

A lightweight wood truss is a collection of structural components joined in a triangular configuration, used to support roofs or floors.

Malleable

The term "malleable" in metals describes the ability to be shaped by techniques such as bending or hammering without cracking.

Masonry Unit

A masonry unit refers to types of masonry like bricks or concrete blocks used in construction.

Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical engineers specialize in designing heating, ventilation, air-conditioning systems, and plumbing within buildings.

Mobile Crane

A mobile crane is mounted on a truck or crawler, allowing for mobility across construction sites.

Modular Construction

Modular construction involves moving prefabricated modules to a site for assembly.

Oriented Strand Board (OSB)

OSB is made from layers of wood strands cut from logs, giving it a consistent width-to-length ratio.

Pile

A pile is a large timber or steel section driven into the ground to provide a solid foundation.

Plastic

Plastics used in construction are synthetic materials composed of organic polymers.

Plumbing Contractor

The role of a plumbing contractor includes overseeing the installation of plumbing systems within buildings.

Plumbing, Mechanical, and Electrical Codes

These codes regulate the installation of water, sanitary systems, air-handling systems, smoke control systems, and electrical systems.

Plywood

Plywood consists of wood panels manufactured with alternating grain plies, providing equal strength in both directions.

Portland Cement Mortar

Portland cement mortar is the most common cement, which solidifies when mixed with water.

Progressive Collapse

Progressive collapse refers to extensive structural failure that starts from local damage or a chain reaction of failures.

Quarried Stone

Quarried stone includes natural stones like granite, marble, and sandstone used in wall and foundation construction.

Rakers

Rakers are braced sheeting elements used in soil walls to prevent collapse.

Reinforcement Bar (Rebar)

Rebar is used to increase the tensile strength of concrete in construction projects.

Sand-Lime Mortar

Sand-lime mortar is a water-soluble mixture that can be washed away with water.

Scale (Architectural)

An architectural scale is an instrument featuring uniformly spaced marks to measure distances on blueprints.

Seismic Protection

Seismic protection in construction ensures walls, floors, and overhangs can withstand earthquake forces.

Slurry Wall

A slurry wall is a heavily reinforced foundation wall set in an excavation, using a liquid slurry mixture that is later replaced by concrete.

Spall

"Spall" indicates a small fragment or chip dislodged from stone or masonry surfaces.

Specifications

Specifications are manuals prepared by designers to detail the type of equipment or devices required in construction.

Sprinkler Contractor

A sprinkler contractor oversees the design and installation of sprinkler systems in buildings.

Structural Engineer

Structural engineers are consulted for designing the structural frame of large buildings.

Structural Steel

Structural steel is fabricated in various shapes for use as essential load-bearing elements.

Subcontractors

Subcontractors are specialists who undertake parts of a main building contract from the general contractor.

Substructure

The substructure consists of the foundation and footings of a building.

Superstructure

The superstructure refers to any construction above the building's substructure.

Thermal Pane Windows

Thermal pane windows consist of multiple glass panes in a sealed frame, enhancing insulation.

Thermoplastic

Thermoplastic materials soften when heated and rehardens upon cooling, used in various construction applications.

Thermoset

Thermoset materials char and burn but do not flow, solidifying into a permanent shape.

Tiebacks

Tiebacks are braced sheeting used in soil walls, intended to maintain stability and prevent collapse.

Tower Crane

A tower crane is fixed to a concrete slab at its base, possibly anchored to the structure being built, facilitating high lifts.

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Description

Test your knowledge on wallboard in construction with this quiz. Discover what wallboard is and its role in providing a surface finish for buildings. Challenge yourself and learn more about this essential construction material.