33.2. Buildings Structures

Try these first

1. 1.

   Name two materials commonly used in wall subsystems.

   Hint

   Think of common building materials.

2. 2.

   What is the purpose of a vertical shaft in a building?

   Hint

   Consider the components that allow people to move vertically.

3. 3.

   What is the primary function of wall subsystems?

   • Provide load transfer
   • House mechanical systems
   • Insulation only

   Hint

   Think about structural roles in buildings.

4. 4.

   True or False: Vertical shafts are important for high-rise buildings as they only contain staircases.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider all vertical transport methods in high-rise buildings.

5. 5.

   Design a wall subsystem for a 30-foot high commercial building using masonry. Consider its effective load resistance and bracing requirements.

   Hint

   Think about building codes and material strength.

6. 6.

   Evaluate the structural integrity of a rigid frame subjected to 50 kips of lateral wind load. How would you reinforce it to improve resistance?

   Hint

   Consider incorporating additional structural components for balance.