Architecture and Construction Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering key architecture, construction, soil, and survey terms based on lecture notes.

Angle of Repose

The steepest angle at which loose soil, sand, gravel, or other granular material can remain stable without sliding or collapsing. It is important when designing slopes, excavations, and foundations.

Architect

A professional who designs buildings and other structures. Architects develop plans and drawings while considering the building’s function, appearance, safety, codes, and the needs of the owner.

Building Code

A set of rules and standards that determine how buildings must be designed and constructed to ensure safety, health, accessibility, and structural stability.

Contractor

A person or company hired to manage and complete the construction of a building or project. Contractors coordinate workers, materials, equipment, and subcontractors to complete the work according to the project plans.

Geotechnical Investigation

The process of examining and testing the soil and rock conditions at a building site. It helps determine whether the ground can safely support a structure and provides information needed for designing foundations.

Green Architecture

An approach to building design that focuses on reducing environmental impact. It may include energy-efficient systems, sustainable materials, water conservation, renewable energy, and designs that reduce waste.

Life Cycle

The different stages a building or building material goes through, from the extraction and manufacturing of materials to construction, use, maintenance, and eventual demolition, reuse, or disposal.

Owner

The person, organization, or company that owns the property and is responsible for establishing the goals, budget, and requirements of a construction project. The owner typically hires the architect and contractor.

Penetration Test

A soil test used to determine the strength, density, or resistance of soil by measuring how much force is required to push or drive a standard object into the ground. It helps engineers evaluate soil conditions for foundations.

Proctor Compaction Test

A laboratory test used to determine the relationship between the moisture content and density of soil. It identifies the maximum dry density and optimum moisture content needed to properly compact soil during construction.

Soil

The natural material found at the Earth's surface that consists of minerals, organic matter, water, and air. In construction, soil is important because it supports foundations, roads, slabs, and other structures.

Topography Survey

A survey that documents the shape, elevation, slopes, and natural or man-made features of a piece of land. Architects and engineers use it to understand how a site should be developed.

Water Table

The underground level at which the soil becomes completely saturated with water. The depth of the water table is important in construction because it can affect foundations, excavation, drainage, and waterproofing.