PDD Sample Questions Answers

When metals are embedded in concrete or masonry, corrosion resistance is a critical factor due to the alkaline environment and potential moisture exposure.

Stainless steel has excellent corrosion resistance, making it ideal for embedments in concrete or masonry where long-term durability is required.

Bronze is corrosion-resistant but typically used for decorative or hardware applications, not structural embedments.

Aluminum corrodes readily in alkaline concrete environments and is not suitable for embedments without protective coatings.

Cast iron is susceptible to rust and corrosion in moist conditions and is generally avoided for embedded components.

Thus, stainless steel is best suited for durability and corrosion resistance in concrete/masonry embedments.

In wood selection for exterior construction, certain species’ heartwoods contain natural extractives/resins that deter decay and insect activity. Western Red Cedar and Cypress are well known for natural durability and termite resistance without chemical treatment. Species such as Douglas fir, hemlock, southern yellow pine, and most oaks are not reliably termite‑resistant in their sapwood and typically require preservative treatment for use in termite zones.

PDD References: NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD content area “Materials & Assemblies—Wood” (durability/decay resistance), CSI Div. 06 wood materials selection notes, and IBC Appx. on decay- and termite‑prone areas—select naturally durable species or preservative treatment.

Poplar is a hardwood that is relatively inexpensive compared to species like maple, cherry, or oak. It has:

Good hardness and uniform grain

Takes paint and stain well (although stain may require pre-treatment for even color)

Often used as a cost-effective substitute for higher-priced hardwoods in furniture, millwork, and trim.

Why not others:

Red oak: Hard and attractive but more costly.

Cypress: Softwood valued for decay resistance, not typically a hardwood substitute.

Redwood: Softwood, expensive, used for exterior decay resistance.

PDD Reference: ARE 5.0 PDD “Materials—Wood species characteristics,” CSI Div. 06 Wood & Plastics, Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWI) standards.

Understanding the Diagram

The detail shows a fan coil unit suspended from the structure, with:

Vibration isolators at the hanging rods to limit mechanical vibration transfer to the structure.

Flexible duct connections between the fan coil unit and the rigid ductwork.

Purpose of Flexible Duct Connections

Flexible connections in HVAC duct systems are designed to:

Prevent transmission of vibration and sound from the mechanical equipment (fan coil unit) into the rigid ductwork and building.

Compensate for small misalignments between the ductwork and equipment.

Accommodate minor thermal expansion/contraction movements.

Key Function in This Context:

Fan coil units contain fans that create vibration and noise. Without a flexible connection, this vibration would travel directly through the rigid ductwork into occupied spaces, increasing noise levels.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. To provide a field point of connection — While the flexible connector does connect ducts, its purpose is not just convenience; it is specifically for vibration/sound isolation.

B. To insulate against heat transfer — This is done with thermal duct insulation, not flexible connectors.

D. To transition from flange to desired duct size — Transitions are made using sheet metal fittings, not flexible connectors.

NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Study Guide References:

Content Area: Integration of Building Materials & Systems — Mechanical Systems and Acoustics

Sources:

Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for Buildings (MEEB) — Vibration Control in Mechanical Systems

Architectural Graphic Standards — Flexible Duct Connections for Noise and Vibration Isolation

ASHRAE Handbook — HVAC Applications, Chapter on Sound and Vibration Control

Key Point:

Flexible connectors in ductwork break the direct mechanical path for vibration and sound, reducing noise transfer from fans to occupied areas.

Understanding the Context

The addition of a 4'-0" x 4'-0" storage closet accessible from the corridor is a design scope modification. Even though this might appear minor, in the context of a Design-Build project delivery method, any change in the scope or spatial layout directly impacts the contract documents. Since the delivery model combines design and construction responsibilities under a single entity, accuracy and clarity in the Owner-Contractor Agreements (AIA A101, A102, or A103) is critical.

Why A101, A102, and A103 Require Revisions

A101 – Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Contractor (Stipulated Sum):This document defines the scope, cost, and responsibilities of the contractor. Adding a storage closet may alter construction cost, schedule, or scope, which must be formally revised and incorporated via an amendment or change order.

A102 – Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Contractor (Cost of the Work Plus a Fee with GMP):Similar to A101, but applies to projects with a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP). The addition of new work, even small, may affect the GMP or contingency usage. Therefore, it also requires formal documentation of the scope change.

A103 – Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Contractor (Cost of the Work Plus a Fee without a GMP):Again, even though no GMP is involved, changes to project scope must be documented for cost tracking and accountability.

According to NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Handbook – Section: Project Manual and Contract Documents:

“The architect must evaluate how any proposed revisions to the work affect the project’s scope, schedule, and budget. These revisions must be incorporated into the contract documents and may require issuing an amendment or modification to the contract.”

Furthermore, under Objective 4.2 – Evaluate and address changes in scope of work and scope creep, ARE candidates are expected to know when and how revisions impact contract documents.

In design-build delivery, all these contract forms must reflect any changes, even minor ones, because the contractor holds responsibility for both design and construction execution. Failure to reflect the change may lead to contractual disputes or unaccounted costs.

Why Other Options Do Not Apply

D. Building Systems Narrative:This narrative typically outlines the design intent and basis for HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems. A minor storage closet accessed from a corridor would not alter system layout or equipment sizing, and thus doesn't necessitate a revision to this document.

E. Initial Cost Estimate:While the estimate may eventually need updating during cost reconciliation, the question specifically asks which documents require revision. The initial estimate is a schematic-level document that doesn’t necessarily need to be revised for such a minor addition.

F. Specification Excerpts:Unless the closet introduces new materials (e.g., special finishes, fire-resistive construction, unique fixtures), the specifications remain unchanged. The closet is likely using standard finishes already defined elsewhere in the spec.

Key PDD Content Areas Referenced

Section: Construction Documentation – Identifying how changes affect working drawings and specifications.

Section: Contracts and Project Manual – Understanding the impact of scope changes on contract documents.

Objective 4.2 – Evaluate and address changes in scope of work and scope creep.

Objective 1.2 – Interpret contract documents to determine if revisions affect project scope, schedule, or budget.

Purpose of the Air Space in Brick Veneer Walls

In a typical brick veneer cavity wall assembly, there is an air space between the back side of the brick and the sheathing (or water-resistive barrier) of the structural wall. This space is typically 1 to 2 inches wide and serves several critical functions:

Moisture Drainage and Ventilation

Rainwater can penetrate brick veneer through joints and cracks.

The air cavity allows water to drain down the back of the veneer to flashing and out through weep holes.

It also provides ventilation to help dry out the wall assembly.

Minimizing Mortar Bridging

During construction, mortar can drop down into the cavity from bricklaying.

If mortar bridges across to the sheathing, it can create a path for moisture to move into the structure.

The 2-inch cavity helps reduce the chance that mortar droppings will fully bridge the gap, ensuring the drainage plane stays functional.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. To meet the minimum R-value — The air space in brick veneer is not designed as insulation; its thermal benefit is minimal compared to continuous insulation layers.

B. Allow for differential movement — Brick veneer differential movement is accommodated by wall ties and control joints, not by the air cavity.

C. Provide space for roof drain piping — Roof drainage piping is routed separately and is not part of the brick veneer cavity design.

NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Study Guide References:

Content Area: Building Envelope Systems — Masonry Wall Assemblies

Source References:

Building Construction Illustrated (Ching) — Brick Veneer Wall Sections and Cavity Function

Architectural Graphic Standards — Masonry Veneer Construction Details

BIA (Brick Industry Association) Technical Notes 21 & 21A — Cavity Wall Design and Construction

Key Principle:

A 2-inch air cavity behind brick veneer is primarily to ensure proper drainage and to minimize mortar bridging, which would otherwise allow moisture intrusion into the building.

Division 06 (Wood, Plastics, and Composites) of the Project Manual contains detailed specifications for finish carpentry and casework materials. This aligns with ARE Objective 2.1: Evaluate project manual sections for technical accuracy.

For a 15-story high-rise where speed and noise matter, gearless traction elevators are the standard choice: highest speeds, smoother/quiet operation, and efficiency for taller buildings. Hydraulic (holed or hole-less) are limited to low-rise (≈2–6 stories) and are slower/noisier; geared traction is mid-rise with lower speeds and more noise than gearless.

PDD references: Vertical transportation selection criteria—rise vs. technology; ARE 5.0 PDD “Building Systems—Elevators.”

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A motorized movable partition used to subdivide a gymnasium requires coordination with:

The structural engineer: to ensure the partition loads are supported, especially if the system is suspended or has track supports.

The electrical engineer: to provide power for the motorized operation, controls, and safety systems.

Mechanical and fire protection engineers are typically less involved unless the partition affects HVAC zones or fire separation requirements, and furniture consultants typically do not deal with structural or electrical coordination.

Understanding the Diagram

The diagram shows a water heater (WH) with labeled connections and valves.

Item 2 is the ASME pressure relief valve, piped to 6 inches above the finished floor.

Purpose of the Pressure Relief Valve in a Water Heater

When water is heated, it expands.

In a closed plumbing system, this expansion increases pressure inside the water heater tank.

If the pressure rises above a safe limit, it can damage the heater, piping, or even cause an explosion.

The temperature and pressure relief valve (T&P valve) automatically opens to discharge water when pressure or temperature exceeds safe limits, relieving the pressure caused by thermal expansion.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. Regulate water pressure fluctuation — Pressure regulation is done by a pressure-reducing valve, not a relief valve.

B. Vent the tank of accumulated air — Air elimination is done with air vents or bleeders, not the T&P valve.

D. Relieve negative pressure when draining the tank — Negative pressure prevention uses vacuum relief valves, not T&P valves.

NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Study Guide References:

Content Area: Plumbing Systems — Equipment and Safety Components

Source References:

Plumbing Engineering Design Handbook — Water Heater Safety Devices

Architectural Graphic Standards — Water Heater Installation Details

MEEB (Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for Buildings) — Plumbing Chapter: Safety valves in hot water systems

Code Reference:

International Plumbing Code (IPC) Section 504.6 — T&P relief valve requirements for water heaters

Key Point:

The ASME-rated relief valve’s main role is to protect the water heater and piping by relieving excessive pressure due to water expansion from heating.

A201 is the General Conditions of the Contract for Construction and outlines duties, rights, and responsibilities of the contractor. This includes site supervision, safety, and conformance with documents. ARE Handbook Objective 1.4 focuses on interpreting contract documents.

The energy code requirement R-13 + R-10 c.i. (continuous insulation) for above-grade walls necessitates adding/confirming a thermal insulation section that covers both cavity insulation (R-13) and continuous exterior insulation (R-10) (e.g., rigid boards, mineral wool boards). Section 072100—Thermal Insulation is the correct overarching specification.

072119 Foamed-In-Place is a product-specific section and not required unless using SPF as the c.i.

075419 PVC is roofing.

PDD Reference: IECC/ASHRAE 90.1 envelope compliance; CSI Div. 07—Thermal Insulation (072100) including rigid continuous insulation requirements

Reflected ceiling plans (RCPs) show locations of diffusers, lighting, ceiling grids, etc. Critical for coordinating mechanical with electrical and architectural elements. Related to Objective 3.1: Coordination of disciplines.

For light wood-frame buildings, the most economical way to develop lateral shear capacity—often without major structural alteration—is to add/upgrade wood structural panel (plywood/OSB) shear walls fastened to studs and plates per nailing schedules. This provides diaphragm and wall‐shear resistance with minimal added framing.

A. Moment connections in wood are labor-intensive and uncommon in light framing.

C. Horizontal board sheathing provides limited shear compared to plywood.

D. Gusset plates do not create a continuous shear diaphragm/wall.

PDD refs: AWC SDPWS (wood shear walls & diaphragms); ARE 5.0 PDD—Structural systems for lateral loads in light-frame construction; IBC Ch. 23.

Verified Answer: C. Change 20,000 sq ft of stained concrete to VCT and substitute 10,000 sq ft of VCT for ceramic tile.

Comprehensive Detailed Explanation with all NCARB ARE 5.0 Project Development and Documentation (PDD) Study Guide References:

Calculate savings for each option by comparing current costs to proposed changes.

Verified Answer: C. Change 20,000 sq ft of stained concrete to VCT and substitute 10,000 sq ft of VCT for ceramic tile.

Comprehensive Detailed Explanation with all NCARB ARE 5.0 Project Development and Documentation (PDD) Study Guide References:

Calculate savings for each option by comparing current costs to proposed changes.

Check if this matches required savings:

No, it's less than $150,000. So let’s check others briefly.

Total savings = $100,000 + $52,500 = $152,500 → Meets and exceeds required savings

Options A and B will be less, so the answer should be D.

Summary:

Option D results in approximately $152,500 savings, meeting the $150,000 target.

Understanding the Reviewer’s Comment

The under-floor access refers to an access opening to the crawlspace.

Crawlspaces are located below the main floor framing and above the foundation.

The International Residential Code (IRC) Section R408.4 requires access openings to under-floor spaces, either from the exterior or the interior.

If site conditions prevent exterior access, access must be provided from inside the building — typically through a framed opening in the main floor.

Why the Main Floor Framing Plan is Correct

Main Floor Framing Plan shows the joists, beams, and floor openings above the crawlspace.

The under-floor access opening (often between joists, covered by a hatch) must be framed into the main floor structure to allow entry to the crawlspace.

This plan will clearly show the location and framing details of the access hatch for contractor reference.

Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. Second Floor Framing Plan — The crawlspace is not under the second floor, so no access opening would be framed here.

C. Foundation Plan — Shows foundation walls, footings, piers, and crawlspace layout, but the actual framed access opening is in the floor system above, not in the foundation drawing. The note about providing access might be referenced here, but the physical location and framing would be shown on the main floor framing plan.

NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Study Guide References:

Content Area: Integration of Building Materials & Systems — Coordination between structural drawings and code requirements.

Code Reference: IRC R408.4 — Access Opening Requirements for Under-Floor Spaces.

Source References:

Architectural Graphic Standards — Crawlspace access detailing

Building Construction Illustrated (Ching) — Floor framing over crawlspaces

When the mechanical unit on a utility mezzanine increases in size:

The structural engineer must confirm the mezzanine can support the increased weight and dynamic loads of the larger unit.

The architect coordinates with the structural engineer to ensure structural integrity.

The building owner is informed but not responsible for technical assessment.

The authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) oversees code compliance but not structural verification.

Accessibility consultant deals with accessibility issues, not mechanical equipment sizing.

The detail shows a steel runner with sheetrock and screws, typical for drywall suspended ceiling assemblies.

This construction method is commonly used in concrete frame buildings with drywall ceilings suspended below the structural slab.

It helps prevent cracking by accommodating building movement and separating finish materials from structural movement.

Structural steel frame buildings with plaster ceilings typically have different finish and framing details.

Concrete flat slabs with exposed ceilings have no finish requiring such assemblies.

Exposed steel frames without partitions don’t need drywall framing.

Sheet piling is a type of earth retention system used in excavations to prevent soil collapse. Reasons include:

D. When the natural soil slope is too steep to remain stable, sheet piling acts as a vertical barrier.

E. When soil cannot support itself during excavation, sheet piles provide lateral support.

F. When excavation is adjacent to a property line or existing structure and adjacent soil must not be disturbed.

Options A (grade beam support), B (raked shoring), and C (pile cap support) are not typical or primary uses of sheet piling.

Step-by-Step Reasoning

1. Identify the occupancies from the question:

Day care services → Occupant load factor = 35 net (from table in the exhibit)

Exercise classes → Occupant load factor = 50 gross (also from table in the exhibit, under "Exercise room")

2. Determine how to calculate the occupant load for multiple occupancies:

According to IBC 2018, Section 1004.1.2 (Areas without fixed seating) and NCARB PDD study materials:

When multiple occupancies share the same means of egress system, the occupant load for the whole space shall be the sum of the occupant loads of the various occupancies.

However, if the space is not divided and is used interchangeably (multipurpose), the most stringent occupant load factor is applied to the entire area.

3. Applying the code:

The multipurpose room is used for both daycare and exercise.

Since the same space is used for different functions at different times (not divided), the most restrictive occupant load factor (the smaller number) should be used.

Smaller occupant load factor = 35 net (Day care) vs. 50 gross (Exercise room).

4. Why “net” vs. “gross” matters here:

Net floor area excludes certain spaces like walls, corridors, mechanical rooms.

Gross floor area includes the entire footprint.

Even though “net” typically results in a smaller area, when calculating load factors, the smaller occupant load factor number results in a larger occupant load — making it more restrictive for egress.

5. Conclusion:

The correct occupant load factor to use for this multipurpose space = 35 net (Day care), as it results in the largest occupant load and is the most restrictive for egress design.

NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Study Guide References:

Content Area: Code Analysis — Occupant Load & Egress Sizing

IBC 2018, Section 1004.1.2 — Areas without fixed seating, determining occupant load for multiple functions

Architectural Graphic Standards — Occupant Load Calculation examples

Building Codes Illustrated by Ching & Winkel — Chapter on Occupancy Load Factors and Egress Requirements

Converting two existing 2-bedroom units into two 1-bedroom units each yields two additional dwelling units total, while keeping every unit on an exterior wall for light/vent and maintaining typical plumbing stacks/egress.

A introduces two studios (size/layout risk) and alters a lower-floor stack; more coordination risk.

C converts a Laundry (likely interior and serving the building) into a unit—problematic for light/ventilation and building services.

PDD refs: IBC R-2 unit planning, light/ventilation, egress; planning & stacking strategies to minimize rework.

Understanding the Diagram

The image shows a pump installation detail with various vibration and alignment control devices:

A — Typically a pipe hanger or suspension support to reduce strain on piping.

B — Likely a flexible electrical conduit (for pump motor connection).

C — Spring vibration isolators under the pump base to prevent vibration transmission into the building structure.

D — A flexible pipe connector (also called a flex connector or braided flexible coupling).

Purpose of Flexible Pipe Connectors

Flexible pipe connectors (D in the diagram) are designed to:

Absorb minor misalignment between connected piping systems.

Reduce stress on pump flanges due to thermal expansion, settlement, or installation tolerances.

Isolate vibration from the pump so that it is not transmitted along rigid piping to the building structure.

This makes them essential in mechanical systems where pumps, chillers, or other vibrating equipment connect to rigid building piping.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. Pipe hangers/supports — Maintain alignment and support vertical loads but do not allow for misalignment or vibration isolation in the same way as flexible connectors.

B. Electrical conduit/flexible connection — Relates to electrical supply flexibility, not piping alignment.

C. Spring vibration isolators — Isolate vibration from equipment to the floor but do not address piping misalignment.

NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Study Guide References:

Content Area: Integration of Building Materials & Systems — Mechanical Systems Coordination

Source References:

Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for Buildings (MEEB) — Chapter on Vibration Isolation & Pump Installation

Architectural Graphic Standards — Flexible Connector & Piping Details

Key Point: Flexible connectors at pumps and equipment protect against misalignment, vibration, and stress transfer to the piping system.

In the casework section drawing provided, the detail that likely does not align with the cost estimate is the note:

"PLASTIC LAMINATE COUNTERTOP AND BACKSPLASH"

This is often a higher-cost item compared to alternatives like post-formed countertops, solid surface over MDF, or budget composite finishes. If the project is under cost pressure, specifying both a plastic laminate countertop and a separate laminate backsplash can increase material and labor costs due to custom fabrication and edge treatments.

With outdoor below freezing and indoor RH ~40% continuously, interior vapor will migrate outward. If a proper interior-side vapor barrier/retarder is missing, moisture moves through the wall and can condense and freeze at the cold exterior stone, forming visible ice. Insulation, air spaces, or rain screens help heat/moisture management, but the symptom (ice due to vapor diffusion) points specifically to the lack of an interior vapor barrier in a cold-climate assembly.

PDD references: Moisture control & vapor retarder strategy in cold climates; condensation diagnostics (ASHRAE Fundamentals; ARE 5.0 PDD—Envelope moisture control).

(PDD) Study Guide References:

Temporary shoring in masonry construction supports walls until they gain sufficient stability. It should remain in place until:

The wall is laterally braced or tied back to a stable structure to resist wind and other lateral loads.

Mortar may have hardened but shoring removal depends on the overall stability.

Horizontal reinforcing and backfilling provide some support but do not replace lateral bracing.

Thus, temporary shoring should remain until all lateral bracing connections are complete, ensuring the wall’s stability.