Drawings identify a building’s principal structural frame as steel beams and columns with non-load-bearing masonry veneer. Which description identifies its principal frame material?
Correct Answer
D) Steel frame construction
The documented principal beams and columns identify a steel frame; masonry veneer describes the non-load-bearing exterior facing. Report both relevant features rather than treating the veneer as the primary structural system. This identifies a frame material, not an IBC type, a fire-resistance rating or a guarantee that every other structural element uses steel.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Option D is correct because the drawings identify the principal beams and columns, the structural frame, as steel. The masonry is only a non-load-bearing veneer on the exterior and does not carry the structure. Steel frame construction describes the principal frame material.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Masonry construction
Option A, masonry construction, mistakes the exterior veneer for the structure. The masonry here is non-load-bearing, so it does not define the frame.
Option B: Fire-resistant construction
Option B, fire-resistant construction, describes a fire-resistance characteristic or rating rather than a frame material. The facts identify a steel frame but give no fire-resistance rating.
Option C: Mixed construction
Option C, mixed construction, suggests the structure relies on more than one primary structural material. Here the frame is steel and the masonry is only a facing, so the principal frame material is steel.
Skeleton beats skin
The frame is the building's skeleton; the veneer is its skin. Classify the frame by what holds the building up.
How to use: Use this when a question mixes a structural material with an exterior facing.
Exam Tip
Watch for the words non-load-bearing or veneer. They signal that the facing material is not the structural frame.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- -Classifying a building by its exterior veneer
- -Treating fire resistance as a frame material
- -Calling a building mixed construction because it has a different exterior finish
Concept Deep Dive
Analysis
This question tests distinguishing a building's structural frame from its exterior facing. The principal load-carrying beams and columns are steel, while the masonry is a non-load-bearing veneer. The frame material is therefore steel.
Background Knowledge
Construction classification in appraisal often focuses on the material of the principal structural frame. Exterior finishes such as brick or stone veneer may hide the frame, so drawings or other reliable information help identify it. Building code construction types and fire ratings are separate classifications.
Real-World Application
An appraiser valuing a modern custom house sees brick on all four sides. The building plans show steel columns and beams with a brick veneer. The appraiser reports a steel frame with brick veneer exterior rather than masonry construction.
More Property Description Questions
A local zoning ordinance allows these maximum densities: R-1, 4 units per acre; R-2, 8 units per acre; R-4, 20 units per acre; PUD (with approval), 12 units per acre. Which category allows the highest density?
What design advantage is commonly associated with post-and-beam construction?
A hypothetical local ordinance permits either a single-family house or duplex on the site. The existing single-family house complies with all current rules. Which statement is supported?
A zoning variance allowing a reduced side setback is granted for a parcel. After the parcel is sold, who generally holds the benefit of the variance, subject to its conditions?
Under ANSI Z765-2021 as applied by Fannie Mae, a staircase runs from the second floor down to the first floor. Its area is counted as part of:
Under ANSI Z765-2021, as Fannie Mae requires for a detached house, where are exterior dimensions taken on a brick-veneer wall?
A building's HVAC system would be classified as which type of building component?
A home on a large tract is valued at $620,000 including the land it needs. The remaining excess land could be sold separately and contributes a net $95,000 after separation costs. What is the total indicated value?
A covered sale concerns a residence built in 1965. Which hazard is the subject of the federal pre 1978 housing disclosure rule, without assuming its actual presence?
Which site characteristic is most likely to reduce site utility by restricting where a typical dwelling can be placed?
People Also Study
Real Estate Market
13.6% of exam
Land or Site Valuation
4.5% of exam
Sales Comparison Approach
16.4% of exam
Cost Approach
13.6% of exam
Income Approach
8.2% of exam
Previous Question
A property's deed contains a restriction stating 'no commercial activities shall be conducted on the premises.' This is an example of:
Next Question
An appraiser is classifying two otherwise similar mid-rise dwellings by form of ownership. Dwelling A is Unit 12A, with a recorded deed to the individual unit plus an undivided interest in common elements. Dwelling B is Apt 12A, where a corporation holds title to the building and land and the occupant holds shares plus a proprietary lease. Under Fannie Mae Selling Guide B4-2.1-01 and related condominium and co-op definitions, how is each dwelling classified?