NCARB vignette - first try

[ad2011]

I'd appreciate any comments.

I already noticed, from reviewing other solutions on the forum, that on the lower level I'm missing the beam at the west edge of the covered entry.
Why is this beam necessary, but not one at the window wall?

Also, I understand that columns do not have to align in plan (i.e., the middle column on the south wall could either align with the column to the north of it, or it could align to the partition between the shop rooms). Does it matter either way?

[Mike-SE]

Read the guide I wrote for the vignette to understand why you need a beam on the west side of the covered porch

[ad2011]

thanks. your guide was one of my prep documents for this vignette. so, thank you for sharing this!

for the porch beam, your guide states: "a beam is required to carry a wall directly above it on the 2nd floor."
But isn't that wall considered an exterior wall, and therefore can support itself?

I apologize if this has been covered in the forum already, as I am just getting started here.

[fss106]

the only thing i can figure from mike's study guide is that because its an exterior wall, then it is possible to balloon frame it, and because the east wall is interior you need a beam to pick up the lower roof... but i had the same question you did, and i honestly can't imagine they'd fail you for it. but i test next week, so what do i know.

[ad2011]

my interpretation is that the east wall is also an exterior wall--the covered entry to the east of it is an exterior space.
this is why I am confused--if both the east and west wall are exterior walls-->An exterior wall can support the upper level without a beam.

but like you said, it must not be a fatal error...hopefully....

[Coach]

Forget interior and exterior. A beam is required to support the upper wall wherever the high space and low space meet.
This was clarified by ncarb a while back. Apparently, they've never heard of balloon framing.
The west wall of the common area has no adjoining roof; therefore, you should not place a beam on the lower level and there is no need for a beam at the upper level if joists are parallel to the wall.

[ad2011]

thanks Coach!

[Clynn]

Where can I get Mike's study guide?

Thanks!