5.2. Soil Movement and House Stability

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the recommended mortar mix ratio for cement and sand?

   Hint

   Think about common building material ratios.

2. 2.

   Why is symmetry important in building design?

   Hint

   Consider how a scale works.

3. 3.

   What happens to asymmetric buildings during natural disasters?

   • They are more stable
   • They are more vulnerable
   • They require less support

   Hint

   Think about how balance affects physical objects.

4. 4.

   True or False: Proper wind orientation can help in reducing damage to a building.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider how the placement of your house affects indoor conditions during a storm.

5. 5.

   Design a small house considering the principles discussed. Describe its shape, orientation against the wind, and construction materials.

   Hint

   Incorporate at least one element from our discussion.

6. 6.

   Evaluate how flooding can affect soil stability around a building's foundation. What mitigation strategies might you recommend?

   Hint

   Consider how water behaves in relation to soil and structures.