just took exam

[mariavista]

Coach, I just returned from my exam and am wondering about the vignette. The double height space had a side that was on the perimeter of the building. A beam is at the roof level but I did not place a beam at the lower level. I rationalized that there were no joists to support and I believe that perimeter walls are self-supporting. Did I make a fatal error?

Maria

[Coach]

Lower beams are only required in the following locations:
1) To carry lower joists.
2) Below clerestory.
3) Where a lower roof abuts an adjacent high wall.

[mariavista]

Thank you for your fast response! Just to clarify, "below clerestory" means the part bearing on the interior wall? No beam in the perimeter wall is ok?

Sorry for freaking out.

Maria

[Coach]

Just to clarify, "below clerestory" means the part bearing on the interior wall? No beam in the perimeter wall is ok?

Wherever the program says a clerestory is located, you need a beam below it.

[mariavista]

Coach, I came across this statement on the forum. Allegedly from NCARB:


“All upper wall portions must be supported by a beam below, whether or not there is a partition in that lower location. The only situation which does not require a beam is if the higher level wall occurs at the perimeter of the building. An exterior wall can support the upper level without a beam.”

This reflects my situation exactly. What is your opinion of this? Did it really come from NCARB?

Maria

[Coach]

Yes.

[mariavista]

Coach, do you know if the "joist rectangle" has to have columns at all four points?

Thank you, Maria

[Coach]

do you know if the "joist rectangle" has to have columns at all four points?

It does not. Columns are for beams, not joists.

[mariavista]

Passed!! Thank you for your help.

Maria