When establishing site layout, what is the primary purpose of batter boards?
Correct Answer
B) To provide reference points for foundation corners and elevations
Batter boards are temporary wooden frames set up beyond the building corners to hold strings that mark the exact location of foundation walls and corners. They provide reference points that remain undisturbed during excavation.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Batter boards are temporary wooden frames positioned outside the building footprint that hold strings to mark exact foundation locations and elevations. They serve as permanent reference points that remain undisturbed during excavation and construction activities. The strings stretched between batter boards create a grid system that allows contractors to accurately locate foundation corners and maintain proper elevations throughout the foundation construction process. This system is essential for ensuring the foundation is built in the correct location and at the proper elevation according to the building plans.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: To mark property boundaries permanently
Soil bearing capacity test locations are determined by geotechnical engineers based on soil conditions and structural requirements, not by batter board placement. Batter boards are solely for layout and reference purposes, not for establishing testing locations.
Option D: To establish soil bearing capacity test locations
Batter boards do not provide structural support for concrete forms. They are positioned well outside the excavation area and only hold reference strings. Concrete forms are supported by their own bracing systems, stakes, and tie systems designed to withstand the pressure of wet concrete.
Memory Technique
Think 'BATTER = BETTER reference' - batter boards provide better reference points that stay put while everything else gets dug up around them.
Reference Hint
Look up 'Site Layout and Surveying' or 'Foundation Layout' sections in construction management references, typically found in chapters covering site preparation and excavation.
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