A building constructed with load-bearing exterior walls of brick or concrete block would be classified as which construction type?
Correct Answer
D) Masonry construction
Why this is correct: Masonry construction is defined by load-bearing exterior walls made of brick, concrete block, stone, or similar materials. The walls themselves support the structural loads, distinguishing it from frame construction where a separate frame carries loads. Why the other choices are wrong: Mixed construction combines materials. Wood frame uses wood studs. Steel frame uses a steel skeleton. Exam tip: Masonry = load-bearing walls of brick/block/stone.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Masonry construction is correctly identified because the defining characteristic is load-bearing exterior walls made of brick, concrete block, stone, or similar masonry materials. In this construction type, the masonry walls themselves carry the structural loads of floors, roof, and other building components, rather than relying on an internal frame system. The materials mentioned (brick and concrete block) are classic examples of masonry construction materials. This construction type is common in older commercial buildings, some residential structures, and institutional buildings.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
WALL-BEARS Memory Method
Remember 'WALL-BEARS' - When Actual Load-bearing Lies - Brick/Block Exterior Assumes Responsibility for Structure. If the walls themselves (especially exterior masonry walls) are doing the heavy lifting structurally, it's masonry construction.
How to use: When you see a question about construction type, immediately ask 'What's bearing the load?' If it's the exterior walls made of brick/block/stone, think WALL-BEARS and choose masonry construction.
Exam Tip
Focus on the phrase 'load-bearing exterior walls' - this is the key identifier. Don't be distracted by the materials alone; the critical factor is that these masonry walls are carrying structural loads.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- -Confusing masonry veneer (decorative brick over frame construction) with true masonry construction
- -Assuming any building with brick exterior is masonry construction without considering whether walls are load-bearing
- -Overlooking the 'load-bearing' qualifier and focusing only on exterior wall materials
Concept Deep Dive
Analysis
This question tests knowledge of building construction classification systems used in real estate appraisal. Construction type classification is fundamental to property valuation as it affects durability, maintenance costs, insurance rates, and overall market value. The key distinguishing factor is identifying what structural elements bear the building's load - in this case, the exterior walls made of masonry materials are the primary load-bearing components. Understanding construction types helps appraisers assess quality, estimate remaining economic life, and make appropriate comparisons with similar properties.
Background Knowledge
Construction classification systems categorize buildings based on their primary structural load-bearing system, which directly impacts property durability, maintenance requirements, and valuation. The main types include wood frame, steel frame, masonry, reinforced concrete, and mixed construction, each with distinct characteristics affecting appraisal analysis.
Real-World Application
When appraising an older downtown commercial building with thick brick exterior walls, an appraiser must recognize this as masonry construction to properly estimate remaining economic life (typically 75-100 years), assess maintenance costs for mortar pointing and brick repair, and select appropriate comparable properties with similar construction quality and characteristics.
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