Facade Systems: Types, Performance, and Applications in Architecture

Question 1

Select the option that is NOT a primary performance characteristic of facade systems.

Accepted Answer

Cost-effectiveness

Answer

Weather resistance

Answer

Energy efficiency

Answer

Structural stability

Question 2

Identify the type of facade system predominantly employed for its structural capabilities, supporting the building envelope.

Accepted Answer

Curtain wall system

Answer

Rainscreen system

Answer

Window wall system

Answer

Stick system

Question 3

In a stick system facade, the framing members are:

Accepted Answer

Assembled on-site, component by component

Answer

Pre-assembled in a factory and transported to the site for installation

Answer

Attached to the building structure from the outside

Answer

Installed from within the building

Question 4

Rainscreen facade systems are designed to primarily achieve:

Accepted Answer

Protection of the building envelope from moisture penetration

Answer

Provision of thermal insulation for the building

Answer

Enhancement of the aesthetic appeal of the building

Answer

Support for the structural loads of the building

Question 5

Within the context of facade systems, the term 'mullion' refers to:

Accepted Answer

A vertical framing member

Answer

A horizontal framing member

Answer

A glazing unit

Answer

An expansion joint

Question 6

Which type of glazing is commonly employed in facade systems to enhance energy efficiency and reduce solar heat gain?

Accepted Answer

Low-emissivity (low-e) glazing

Answer

Single-glazed windows

Answer

Double-glazed windows

Answer

Triple-glazed windows

Question 7

Curtain wall facade systems are typically attached to the building structure using:

Accepted Answer

Anchors and brackets

Answer

Bolts and nuts

Answer

Welds

Answer

Adhesive bonding

Question 8

Identify a potential disadvantage associated with the use of unitized facade systems.

Accepted Answer

Higher cost compared to other facade systems

Answer

Limited design flexibility

Answer

Slower installation process

Answer

Greater vulnerability to water infiltration

Question 9

What factor does NOT influence the selection of facade systems?

Accepted Answer

Construction cost

Answer

Aesthetics

Answer

Energy efficiency

Answer

Structural requirements

Question 10

Which component is NOT typically found in a curtain wall system?

Accepted Answer

Load-bearing exterior wall

Answer

Non-load-bearing exterior wall

Answer

Structural framing

Answer

Exterior cladding

Question 11

Which advantage is NOT offered by double-skin facades?

Accepted Answer

Reduced construction costs

Answer

Improved thermal performance

Answer

Enhanced natural ventilation

Answer

Increased sound insulation

Question 12

What is the main purpose of a rainscreen facade?

Accepted Answer

Ventilate the building exterior

Answer

Create a waterproof barrier

Answer

Enhance aesthetic appeal

Answer

Support the building's structural load

Question 13

Which technology enables the use of dynamic materials in facade systems?

Accepted Answer

Digital fabrication

Answer

Computer-aided design

Answer

Energy modeling

Answer

Life-cycle assessment

Question 14

Who primarily determines the visual design of a building's facade system?

Accepted Answer

Architect

Answer

Structural Engineer

Answer

Facade Contractor

Answer

Building Developer

Question 15

Which type of glazing is commonly used in double-skin facades to improve thermal efficiency?

Accepted Answer

Insulating glass units (IGUs)

Answer

Laminated glass

Answer

Heat-strengthened glass

Answer

Tempered glass

Question 16

How do facade systems contribute to occupant comfort and well-being by influencing daylighting, thermal comfort, and indoor air quality?

Accepted Answer

Facade systems enhance daylighting, thermal comfort, and indoor air quality, promoting occupant well-being.

Answer

Facade systems hinder daylighting, worsen thermal comfort, and compromise indoor air quality, negatively affecting occupant well-being.

Answer

Facade systems have a minimal impact on occupant comfort and well-being.

Question 17

Which of the following is a primary purpose of a facade system?

Accepted Answer

Protect the building and its occupants from the elements

Answer

Provide only a decorative front

Answer

Bear the primary structural loads of the building

Question 18

Which type of facade system typically consists of a lightweight metal framework with infill panels made of glass or opaque materials?

Accepted Answer

Curtain wall

Answer

Rainscreen

Answer

Double skin

Answer

Ventilated facade

Question 19

What is a notable advantage of employing a double skin facade system?

Accepted Answer

Enhanced thermal insulation and improved daylighting

Answer

Simplified maintenance

Answer

Reduced wind forces

Answer

Increased cost-effectiveness

Question 20

What is the primary function of a rainscreen facade system?

Accepted Answer

Provide a weather-resistant barrier and drainage plane

Answer

Support structural loads

Answer

Enhance energy efficiency

Question 21

Which facade material is known for its ability to transmit light while diffusing it?

Accepted Answer

Glass

Answer

Concrete

Answer

Metal

Answer

Stone

Question 22

When designing a facade system for a high-rise building, what factor requires special consideration?

Accepted Answer

Wind loading and structural stability

Answer

Material durability

Answer

Fire safety

Question 23

Which performance requirement is critical for a ventilated facade system?

Accepted Answer

Adequate drainage and air flow

Answer

Exceptional fire resistance

Answer

Effective sound absorption

Answer

Superior thermal insulation

Question 24

What is the fundamental difference between a curtain wall and a rainscreen facade system?

Accepted Answer

A curtain wall is self-supporting, while a rainscreen is attached to the building structure

Answer

A curtain wall offers better energy efficiency

Answer

A rainscreen provides greater durability

Question 25

Which aspect of a facade system is primarily influenced by the architectural style of the building?

Accepted Answer

Aesthetics and visual design

Answer

Structural integrity

Answer

Fire resistance

Answer

Energy efficiency