TABLE OF CONTENTS (A) ( [1]) ( [2]) ( [10]) ( [13]) ( [16]) ( [26]) ( [34]) ( [50])
Deciding which structural system to use is one of the most prominent choices the architect will have to make. Factors affecting the choice:
Construction type by code
Long vs. short spans
Live loads
Low vs. high rise
Lateral and uplift
Rules of thumb for estimating structural sizes
(also see p. 98)
Type I, A and B Construction require noncom-bustible materials (concrete, masonry, and steel) and substantial fire-resistive ratings (2, 3, and 4 hours). Both these construction types can be used to build large, tall buildings. The difference is that Type I has no height or area limits for most occupancies. Type I construction requires 3-and 4-hour fire resistance for structural members. Type II has a maximum height limit of 160 ? as well as floor area and maximum story limitations as a function of occupancy. Type II requires 3-and 2-hour ratings and thus is less expensive. Typical systems are:
| Concrete solid slabs | 10 ?-25 ? spans Concrete slabs win drop panels 20 ?-35 ? |
| Concrete 2-way slab on beam | 20 ?-35 ? |
| Concrete waffle slabs | 30 ?-40 ? |
| Concrete joists | 25 ?-45 ? |
| Concrete beams | 15 ?-40 ? |
| Concrete girders | 20 ?-60 ? |
| Concrete tees | 20 120 ? |
| Concrete arches | 60 ?-150 ? |
| Concrete thin shell roofs | 50 |
