Construction documents show the building’s principal gravity loads carried by structural steel beams and columns. Which structural frame description follows?
Correct Answer
D) Structural steel frame
The documented principal beams and columns identify a structural steel frame. Occupancy and height alone would not establish that load path: steel is used in buildings of several heights and uses, while high-rises can also use concrete or mixed systems. This description alone does not establish an IBC construction type or fire-resistance rating.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Option D is correct because principal beams and columns made of structural steel that carry the building's gravity loads define a structural steel frame. The construction documents identify the load-carrying members directly. That description identifies the frame, though by itself it does not establish a building code construction type or fire-resistance rating.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Light wood frame
Option A, light wood frame, is wrong because a light wood frame carries loads through closely spaced wood studs, joists and rafters, not principal steel beams and columns.
Option B: Unreinforced masonry
Option B, unreinforced masonry, is wrong because that system relies on masonry walls without reinforcing steel to bear loads, whereas the documents show steel beams and columns carrying the principal gravity loads.
Option C: Solid timber frame
Option C, solid timber frame, is wrong because a timber frame uses large wood posts and beams as the principal members, and the documented members here are structural steel.
Follow the load-carrying members
Ask what holds the building up: whatever material the principal beams and columns are made of names the frame.
How to use: Use this when a question describes the members carrying gravity loads and asks for the frame type.
Exam Tip
Base the frame description on the documented structural members, not on the building's height, occupancy or exterior cladding.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- -Inferring the frame type from building height or use instead of the documented members
- -Assuming a steel frame description by itself establishes a code construction type or fire rating
- -Classifying the frame by its exterior finish material
Concept Deep Dive
Analysis
This question tests matching a documented load path to the correct structural frame description. The stem states that the principal gravity loads are carried by structural steel beams and columns, which directly identifies the frame type. The reasoning is to rely on the documented structural members rather than assumptions about occupancy, height or other building features.
Background Knowledge
Buildings are commonly described by the material and system that carries their principal loads, such as light wood frame, masonry bearing wall, heavy timber, reinforced concrete or structural steel frame. Steel frames appear in buildings of many heights and uses, and tall buildings may instead use concrete or mixed systems. Frame description and code construction type are related but separate classifications.
Real-World Application
An appraiser valuing a small office building reviews the architect's drawings, which show steel columns and wide-flange beams supporting the floors and roof. The appraiser describes the improvement as a structural steel frame and does not infer a fire-resistance rating without further documentation.
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