Deal of The Day! Hurry Up, Grab the Special Discount - Save 25% - Ends In 00:00:00 Coupon code: SAVE25
Welcome to Pass4Success

- Free Preparation Discussions

NCARB Project-Planning-Design Exam - Topic 4 Question 19 Discussion

A proposed six-story commercial building will have a basement level with finished floor 20'-0" below grade. The building site is located less than 1 mile from the coastline. A site survey indicates that the average site elevation is 5'-0" above sea level.Based on the site-specific conditions, which four issues should the architect address in the design? Check the four that apply.
A) Dewatering during construction and B) Water table height and D) Potential corrosion of exterior finishes due to salt in water vapor and E) Hydrostatic pressure on basement walls
C) Spread footings
F) Radiant flooring in the basement slab

NCARB Project-Planning-Design Exam - Topic 4 Question 19 Discussion

Actual exam question for NCARB's Project-Planning-Design exam
Question #: 19
Topic #: 4
[All Project-Planning-Design Questions]

A proposed six-story commercial building will have a basement level with finished floor 20'-0" below grade. The building site is located less than 1 mile from the coastline. A site survey indicates that the average site elevation is 5'-0" above sea level.

Based on the site-specific conditions, which four issues should the architect address in the design? Check the four that apply.

Show Suggested Answer Hide Answer
Suggested Answer: A, B, D, E

Comprehensive and Detailed

Dewatering during construction (A): The deep excavation (20' below grade) near sea level likely intersects the water table, necessitating dewatering to keep the site dry during construction.

Water table height (B): Proximity to the coast raises the water table, which affects foundation and waterproofing design.

Potential corrosion due to salt (D): Salt in water vapor and marine air can corrode metal exterior finishes and reinforcements; materials and coatings must be selected accordingly.

Hydrostatic pressure on basement walls (E): High water tables create significant lateral water pressure requiring robust waterproofing and structural resistance.

Spread footings (C) may or may not be suitable depending on soil but are not specific to coastal or basement conditions.

Radiant flooring (F) is unrelated to site conditions and more a mechanical choice.


ARE 5.0 PPD -- Environmental Conditions and Context, Site and Foundation Design

The Architect's Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition -- Coastal and Marine Environment Design

Contribute your Thoughts:

0/2000 characters

Currently there are no comments in this discussion, be the first to comment!


Save Cancel