Architectural Structure Review

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to architectural structures, their components, and their functions.

Beam

A structural element that supports vertical loads.

Girder

A large beam that supports other beams.

Simple Beam

A beam with a single span supported at both ends.

Cantilever Beam

A beam that projects beyond one of its supports.

Web Reinforcement

Adding reinforcement to resist diagonal tension and counteract shear forces in beams.

One-Way Slab

A slab with reinforcement running in one direction.

Two-Way Slab

A slab supported on four sides, suitable for nearly square panels.

Flat Slab

A slab directly supported by columns without the use of beams.

Superstructure

The above-ground portion of a building.

Substructure

The below-ground components that transfer the building’s load into the soil.

Foundation

The part of the building that transfers its load into the soil.

Primary Element

Essential parts of a building structure, excluding finishes.

Secondary Element

Non-structural components that finish the structure, including around openings.

Finish

The final surface of a building, either self-finished or applied.

Shallow Foundation

A foundation laid at a shallow depth, such as spread footing.

Deep Foundation

Foundations that transfer load deep into the ground, such as piles.

Protective Concrete Covering

Concrete surrounding reinforcement in columns to prevent corrosion.

Reinforced Concrete

Concrete with embedded reinforcement to help resist forces.

Slump Test

A test to determine the consistency of freshly mixed concrete.

Fine Aggregate

Material in concrete that is smaller than ¼ inch (6mm).

Plaster

A finish coat applied to walls, while mortar is used for bonding.

Dimension Stone

Stone cut to specific sizes and thicknesses for construction.

Common Brick

Brick used for general construction purposes.

Buckling

A common failure mode for long columns.

Composite Column

A column with structural steel embedded within the concrete.

Mortar

Material used for bonding bricks and stones in construction.

Wall/Strip Footings

Footings used to distribute the load wider than the wall.

Stirrups

Reinforcement used in beams to provide additional strength.

Compression Stress

Stress that shortens or compresses the material.

Tension Stress

Stress that elongates or stretches the material.

Mat Foundation

A type of foundation used to distribute loads over a wide area.

Retaining Wall

A wall designed to retain soil or support structures below grade.

Expansion Joint

A joint that allows for movement between sections of a slab.

Cracking in Concrete

Often caused by insufficient curing or excessive water content.

Concrete

A solid mass structure combination of aggregates, cement, and water.

Post/Column

A structural member that transfers vertical loads to the foundation.

Trusses

Structural elements that are primarily responsible for supporting loads in a building.