NCARB PDD ARE 5.0 Project Development and Documentation Exam Exam Practice Test

When coordinating construction documents, heating duct clearances and tolerances in suspended ceiling plenum spaces must be verified with:

The mechanical engineer (for duct sizing and layout)

The ceiling manufacturer (to confirm the clearance requirements, installation tolerances, and compatibility with the ceiling system)

The ceiling manufacturer provides critical information on allowable spacing, panel sizes, suspension system limits, and any required clearances around ducts or pipes that run above the ceiling.

Other parties:

HVAC contractor executes installation but follows design and ceiling guidelines

Electrical contractor coordinates separate systems

Structural engineer focuses on load and framing, not ceiling duct clearance

Per IBC Chapter 6 and Chapter 7, distillation involving flammable liquids requires a 2-hour fire-resistance-rated fire wall between H-occupancy (hazardous) and assembly use (A-2). Objective 1.3 of the PDD Handbook emphasizes understanding of life safety code implications in space planning.

IBC governs occupancy classification, occupant loads, and required means of egress. A 300-person taproom triggers egress path requirements under IBC Chapter 10. Objective 1.3 addresses code compliance.

In a tropical climate, the interior is cooler and drier than the hot, humid exterior. The vapor drive is from outside → inside, so the vapor retarder must be installed on the warm/moist side of the assembly, which is below the insulation when the insulation is above the roof deck. This prevents moist exterior air from reaching cooler surfaces inside the insulation where condensation could occur.

PDD Reference: Psychrometrics & vapor drive principles, PDD “Thermal & Moisture Protection—Placement of vapor barriers,” ASHRAE Handbook recommendations.

1. Reviewing the Construction Estimate

The listed components are:

Architectural Precast Panels — exterior cladding

Aluminum Storefront Windows — glazing system

Prefinished Metal Sill Flashing — weatherproofing at sill

Sealant — for joints between components

No line item appears for thermal insulation.

2. Identifying the Missing Element in the Axonometric Detail

Looking at the drawing:

The detail shows precast concrete panel cladding outside.

A storefront frame and glazing in the opening.

There is a hatched layer behind the precast in the stud cavity area — this represents continuous insulation.

The insulation is a required component for the wall to meet energy code R-value/U-factor requirements (per IECC or ASHRAE 90.1).

3. Why This is Critical

Insulation is essential for thermal performance, occupant comfort, and energy efficiency.

Omitting it from the estimate could cause:

Noncompliance with code.

Incomplete cost budgeting.

Change orders during construction.

In ARE 5.0 PDD, architects must check that all components of an assembly are represented in the cost estimate.

4. References

NCARB ARE 5.0 Handbook — PDD Content Area 3: Integration of Building Materials & Systems

Architectural Graphic Standards — Precast wall sections with insulation

Building Construction Illustrated (Ching) — Continuous insulation in wall assemblies

Energy Code References: IECC Table C402.1.3 for minimum continuous insulation requirements in exterior walls

To keep the concrete warmest in winter, place the continuous insulation on the exterior so the concrete mass stays inside the thermal envelope and sees interior temperatures. This reduces heat loss, limits risk of interstitial condensation at the concrete surface, and improves thermal lag. Option D shows all polyurethane insulation on the outside of the wall; A and B place some or all insulation inside, and C splits it—both allow more winter heat loss from the concrete.

PDD references: Building envelope heat flow & thermal mass strategy; continuous insulation placement (ASHRAE Fundamentals; NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD—Envelope & Thermal/Moisture Protection, CSI Div 07).

In the casework section drawing provided, the detail that likely does not align with the cost estimate is the note:

"PLASTIC LAMINATE COUNTERTOP AND BACKSPLASH"

This is often a higher-cost item compared to alternatives like post-formed countertops, solid surface over MDF, or budget composite finishes. If the project is under cost pressure, specifying both a plastic laminate countertop and a separate laminate backsplash can increase material and labor costs due to custom fabrication and edge treatments.

1. Understanding the APA Grade Stamp

The stamp in the exhibit reads:

APA RATED SHEATHING 32/16

15/32 INCH (thickness)

SIZED FOR SPACING

EXPOSURE 1 (can handle temporary moisture exposure)

2. Meaning of "32/16"

The numbers 32/16 are the span ratings for the panel:

32 inches = maximum recommended span for roof sheathing (when applied perpendicular to supports).

16 inches = maximum recommended span for floor sheathing (when applied perpendicular to supports).

These ratings are established by APA (The Engineered Wood Association) based on panel thickness, grade, and allowable loads/deflection limits.

3. Applying to the Question

The question asks specifically for maximum recommended span for use in a floor system.

From the stamp:

Floor span rating = 16 inches

Therefore, the correct answer is 16 in.

4. Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. 15 in — Not the value given; 16 in is the rating.

C. 32 in — This is for roof applications, not floor systems.

D. 108 in — Not related to APA span ratings; possibly confused with the certification number "NBR-108."

5. NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Study Guide References:

Content Area: Building Materials & Assemblies — Wood Products

Reference Sources:

APA – The Engineered Wood Association: Panel Span Ratings Guide

Building Construction Illustrated (Ching) — Plywood and OSB Panel Markings

IBC Chapter 23 — Wood span and application requirements

The transformer is located in the first large box after the high-voltage primary feeders and before the secondary service conductors on the left side of the diagram.

Step-by-Step Reasoning

1. Understanding the diagram flow:

The leftmost symbol represents high-voltage primary feeders from the utility (2,400V, 4,160V, 7,200V, or 13,200V).

Immediately after that, there is a large box labeled "Secondary Service conductors" with standard building service voltages (120/208, 120/240, 277/480 V).

To get from primary (medium/high) voltage to these usable secondary voltages, you must step down the voltage — and that is done by a transformer.

2. Transformer location in electrical distribution:

Transformers are always placed between the incoming primary service and the secondary distribution system in building diagrams.

In this drawing, the transformer is symbolized by the first large square/rectangular box after the high-voltage primary feeders.

3. Why not any other box?

The following boxes and lines after this first step are feeders, panels, and motor starters — they operate at secondary voltage.

Only the transformer connects the utility high-voltage system to the building's lower-voltage system.

NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD References:

Content Area: Electrical Systems — Service Entrance and Distribution

Source References:

MEEB (Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for Buildings) — Chapter on Transformers & Electrical Service

NEC (National Electrical Code) Article 450 — Transformer Installation and Use

Architectural Graphic Standards — Single-Line Diagrams for Electrical Distribution

Key Point:

In building electrical distribution, the transformer is always between the high-voltage primary service and the secondary service conductors to step down voltage to a usable level for building loads.

Where no public sewer is available, on-site wastewater treatment (septic tank + leach field) is required. This supports Objective 3.2, considering utility systems and site limitations.

Understanding the Context

When preparing the Project Manual in the Project Development & Documentation (PDD) section of the ARE 5.0 exam, you need to determine which specification sections are essential based on project requirements and conditions. The Project Manual organizes administrative and technical specifications into divisions, each serving a specific purpose.

In this case, because construction will occur while farming operations continue uninterrupted—and public water and sewer services are unavailable on site—temporary utilities (such as water, power, and possibly sanitation) are a critical component that must be clearly addressed in the Project Manual. These provisions ensure the contractor understands how to support construction without disrupting farm operations and without relying on permanent utilities.

Why “015000 Temporary Utilities” is Required

Section 01 50 00 – Temporary Utilities (often numbered 015000) is part of Division 01: General Requirements in the Project Manual. It specifies requirements for establishing and maintaining temporary utility services (like water, electric, lighting, heating, cooling, toilets) during construction. It helps ensure the design and construction team address logistical needs amid the distinctive site conditions—namely the absence of public utilities and the necessity of continuous farm operations.

As noted in a design and construction manual resource:

“Section 01 51 00 – Temporary Utilities. This section is generally included in all projects; however, it must be carefully written so as to be applicable to the specific project conditions.”

This directly supports inclusion of Temporary Utilities in the Project Manual for this project scenario.

Why Other Options Are Not Appropriate

A. 006113 Performance and Payment BondThese forms pertain to contract security and bonding requirements, which would be located in Division 00 (Procurement and Contracting Requirements), not Division 01. The question focuses on which section should be included in the Project Manual being prepared at this phase; the key imperative here is the temporary utility needs, not bonds.

B. 012300 AlternatesAlternates allow multiple pricing options for different project scopes, but there is no indication that alternate options (e.g., alternate spaces or functions) are being used in this design. There’s no mention of bidding alternates.

D. 019113 General Commissioning RequirementsCommissioning provisions (often related to MEP system verification and performance) would only be required if commissioning is part of the project deliverables. The project brief doesn’t indicate commissioning deliverables—only that mechanical and electrical systems are supported by the PEMB, and the focus here is continuity of operations and utilities during construction, not commissioning.

For barrier-free (ADA) accessible routes, operable parts such as door hardware must be usable with one hand and not require tight grasping, pinching, or twisting of the wrist (2010 ADA Standards §404.2.7). Lever handles meet this requirement because they can be operated by users with limited grip strength or dexterity.

A. Grip handles with thumbpieces — Often require pinching or twisting; not compliant for barrier-free.

B. Knurled knobs — Non-compliant because they require twisting and strong grip; also typically used for hazardous rooms as a tactile warning.

D. Panic devices — Allowed in certain egress conditions but not the universal ADA hardware requirement for standard accessible doors.

PDD Reference: ARE 5.0 Handbook, PDD “Codes and Regulations—Accessibility,” 2010 ADA Standards §404.2.7, ICC A117.1 Accessibility Standard.

In PDD, the architect must coordinate consultant drawings. When a conflict exists (here, duct vs. beam), the best course is to ask the responsible engineer (mechanical) to reroute the ductwork to clear the beam. As per ARE 5.0 Handbook Objective 3.1, the architect is expected to "coordinate building systems and their integration."

Mortar joint finishes impact water resistance and weatherability:

Concave joint is the most weather-resistant. The joint is compressed and curved inward, forming a dense, compact surface that sheds water effectively.

Weathered joint slopes outward but is less compact than concave.

Raked joint is recessed and can hold water, less weather-resistant.

Extruded joint protrudes and tends to trap water and dirt.

Therefore, concave joints provide the best weather protection.

Understanding the Diagram

The detail shows a fan coil unit suspended from the structure, with:

Vibration isolators at the hanging rods to limit mechanical vibration transfer to the structure.

Flexible duct connections between the fan coil unit and the rigid ductwork.

Purpose of Flexible Duct Connections

Flexible connections in HVAC duct systems are designed to:

Prevent transmission of vibration and sound from the mechanical equipment (fan coil unit) into the rigid ductwork and building.

Compensate for small misalignments between the ductwork and equipment.

Accommodate minor thermal expansion/contraction movements.

Key Function in This Context:

Fan coil units contain fans that create vibration and noise. Without a flexible connection, this vibration would travel directly through the rigid ductwork into occupied spaces, increasing noise levels.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect:

A. To provide a field point of connection — While the flexible connector does connect ducts, its purpose is not just convenience; it is specifically for vibration/sound isolation.

B. To insulate against heat transfer — This is done with thermal duct insulation, not flexible connectors.

D. To transition from flange to desired duct size — Transitions are made using sheet metal fittings, not flexible connectors.

NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Study Guide References:

Content Area: Integration of Building Materials & Systems — Mechanical Systems and Acoustics

Sources:

Mechanical and Electrical Equipment for Buildings (MEEB) — Vibration Control in Mechanical Systems

Architectural Graphic Standards — Flexible Duct Connections for Noise and Vibration Isolation

ASHRAE Handbook — HVAC Applications, Chapter on Sound and Vibration Control

Key Point:

Flexible connectors in ductwork break the direct mechanical path for vibration and sound, reducing noise transfer from fans to occupied areas.

With outdoor below freezing and indoor RH ~40% continuously, interior vapor will migrate outward. If a proper interior-side vapor barrier/retarder is missing, moisture moves through the wall and can condense and freeze at the cold exterior stone, forming visible ice. Insulation, air spaces, or rain screens help heat/moisture management, but the symptom (ice due to vapor diffusion) points specifically to the lack of an interior vapor barrier in a cold-climate assembly.

PDD references: Moisture control & vapor retarder strategy in cold climates; condensation diagnostics (ASHRAE Fundamentals; ARE 5.0 PDD—Envelope moisture control).

Interpreting the Scenario

The owner is requesting rooftop access for residents, featuring a vegetated (green) roof, an elevated paver patio, and occupancy limited to 50 people. These revisions introduce new design requirements triggered by building codes (means of egress, structural loads, architectural representation) and coordination challenges across disciplines.

Why Each Selected Option is Required

Revise Exterior Elevations

The addition of a rooftop terrace and vegetated roof changes the building’s exterior appearance—its massing, parapets, materials, and possibly guardrail heights. These design changes must be reflected in the architectural drawings used for permit issuance and construction.

Provide an Exterior Exit Stair

Under the International Building Code (IBC) and general egress requirements, an occupied rooftop (used by people for recreation or amenities) must be safely accessible and egressed. Occupied roofs require a stairway—an exterior exit stair—rather than just a hatch or ladder ICC+6NYC+6The Building Code Forum+6NYC+4lapeyrestair.com+4NYC+4. This ensures the rooftop can serve as a legal means of egress.

Provide Additional Roof Details

Adding a vegetated roof system and a paver patio involves multiple layers (waterproofing, root barrier, drainage, structural substrate, pavers, possibly amenity loading, edge details, guardrails). The project manual and construction documents must include these specific details to ensure proper assembly and water protection.

Consult Structural Engineer

Vegetated roofs and paver patios introduce significant dead loads (soil, plants, saturated weight) and live loads (maintenance personnel, occupants). The structure must be verified to support these loads. Per green roof design standards, structural capacity must be evaluated early in the design process NYC. Consulting the structural engineer ensures safety and code compliance.

Why Other Options Do Not Apply

E. Consult elevator manufacturer

There's no indication that elevator access is required or available. Current code triggers elevator access only in specific scenarios (e.g., occupant loads exceeding certain thresholds combined with accessibility requirements). This project doesn’t suggest such a need.

F. Contact civil engineer

The rooftop change pertains to architectural detailing, structural capacity, and life safety—not site-wide civil issues like grading, stormwater, or utilities. While the vegetated roof may affect overall stormwater management, primary concerns still fall under architectural and structural domains. Typical ARE scope categories engage the geotech/environmental or landscape professional—not necessarily the civil engineer—unless broader site infrastructure is impacted.

Given:

The theater doubles its second-floor movie screens, increasing patron traffic.

Existing escalators are two 24-inch wide units, one up and one down, with simultaneous movie start times every 3 hours.

To handle increased traffic:

Increasing existing escalator speed to 130 fpm (option A) is limited by safety and code limits (typically max around 100 fpm); also increases wear.

Installing a new elevator (option B) is helpful for accessibility but does not efficiently handle high flow of large crowds during peak.

Installing a new escalator that reverses direction (option C) (also called a "dance" or "two-way" escalator) allows flexibility to accommodate peak traffic flow—e.g., two escalators up during rush times and one down, or vice versa.

Extending balustrades (option D) improves safety but does not increase capacity.

Therefore, option C is the best solution to manage increased passenger flow.

Comprehensive Detailed Explanation with all NCARB ARE 5.0 Project Development and Documentation (PDD) Study Guide References

The project is rural with no public water or sewer; by context there is likely no city steam and possibly no natural gas main. New boilers therefore need a fuel source on site (commonly LP/propane or fuel oil), and the site plan should direct the GC to coordinate fuel storage tank location (clearances, protection, truck access, setbacks, fire code).

A presumes a gas utility service that may not exist.

B presumes a city steam utility (not present).

PDD Reference: Division 01 coordination notes; IMC/IFC for on-site fuel storage clearances and protection; site plan general notes best practices.

To prepare project specifications, the architect requires documents that inform about site conditions, building construction, and interior finishes:

Geotechnical report provides soil conditions, foundation recommendations, and site constraints.

Building sections provide detailed information on assemblies, materials, and vertical relationships.

Room finish schedule identifies finishes, materials, and related specifications for interior spaces.

Legal surveys, traffic management plans, and door schedules are important for planning and design coordination but less directly informative for writing specifications.

Sheet piling is a type of earth retention system used in excavations to prevent soil collapse. Reasons include:

D. When the natural soil slope is too steep to remain stable, sheet piling acts as a vertical barrier.

E. When soil cannot support itself during excavation, sheet piles provide lateral support.

F. When excavation is adjacent to a property line or existing structure and adjacent soil must not be disturbed.

Options A (grade beam support), B (raked shoring), and C (pile cap support) are not typical or primary uses of sheet piling.

Hardware Set 3.0 includes: three full-mortise hinges, an entrance/privacy lock, matching core, wall stop, silencers, and a coat hook. That combination is the typical specification for a single-occupant toilet room or similar private room opening off a corridor—privacy latch (not an exit device), door control, and a coat hook inside. Sets 1.0 and 4.0 are push/pull or exit-device packages (for egress/assembly or non-latching doors), and Set 2.0 is a basic push-pull set without a latch—none of which meet the corridor toilet-room function.

PDD refs: Division 08 door hardware scheduling; coordination of door sets with room function and code egress/privacy requirements.

Understanding the Context

The addition of a 4'-0" x 4'-0" storage closet accessible from the corridor is a design scope modification. Even though this might appear minor, in the context of a Design-Build project delivery method, any change in the scope or spatial layout directly impacts the contract documents. Since the delivery model combines design and construction responsibilities under a single entity, accuracy and clarity in the Owner-Contractor Agreements (AIA A101, A102, or A103) is critical.

Why A101, A102, and A103 Require Revisions

A101 – Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Contractor (Stipulated Sum):This document defines the scope, cost, and responsibilities of the contractor. Adding a storage closet may alter construction cost, schedule, or scope, which must be formally revised and incorporated via an amendment or change order.

A102 – Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Contractor (Cost of the Work Plus a Fee with GMP):Similar to A101, but applies to projects with a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP). The addition of new work, even small, may affect the GMP or contingency usage. Therefore, it also requires formal documentation of the scope change.

A103 – Standard Form of Agreement Between Owner and Contractor (Cost of the Work Plus a Fee without a GMP):Again, even though no GMP is involved, changes to project scope must be documented for cost tracking and accountability.

According to NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Handbook – Section: Project Manual and Contract Documents:

“The architect must evaluate how any proposed revisions to the work affect the project’s scope, schedule, and budget. These revisions must be incorporated into the contract documents and may require issuing an amendment or modification to the contract.”

Furthermore, under Objective 4.2 – Evaluate and address changes in scope of work and scope creep, ARE candidates are expected to know when and how revisions impact contract documents.

In design-build delivery, all these contract forms must reflect any changes, even minor ones, because the contractor holds responsibility for both design and construction execution. Failure to reflect the change may lead to contractual disputes or unaccounted costs.

Why Other Options Do Not Apply

D. Building Systems Narrative:This narrative typically outlines the design intent and basis for HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems. A minor storage closet accessed from a corridor would not alter system layout or equipment sizing, and thus doesn't necessitate a revision to this document.

E. Initial Cost Estimate:While the estimate may eventually need updating during cost reconciliation, the question specifically asks which documents require revision. The initial estimate is a schematic-level document that doesn’t necessarily need to be revised for such a minor addition.

F. Specification Excerpts:Unless the closet introduces new materials (e.g., special finishes, fire-resistive construction, unique fixtures), the specifications remain unchanged. The closet is likely using standard finishes already defined elsewhere in the spec.

Key PDD Content Areas Referenced

Section: Construction Documentation – Identifying how changes affect working drawings and specifications.

Section: Contracts and Project Manual – Understanding the impact of scope changes on contract documents.

Objective 4.2 – Evaluate and address changes in scope of work and scope creep.

Objective 1.2 – Interpret contract documents to determine if revisions affect project scope, schedule, or budget.

A thermal break in metal window frames interrupts the conductive path of heat through the frame, reducing heat transfer.

This reduces the chance that the interior surface of the frame will drop below the dew point temperature, thereby reducing condensation (surface moisture buildup).

Thermal breaks do not increase air infiltration; they help maintain thermal performance.

They reduce sound transmission, so B is incorrect.

Thermal breaks typically increase cost and complexity, so D is incorrect.

Understanding Slip Matching in Wood Veneer

When wood veneer is sliced from a log, each sheet (or "leaf") has a repeating grain pattern. How those sheets are arranged side-by-side on a panel is called the matching method.

Slip Matching:

Consecutive leaves are laid side-by-side without flipping or reversing them.

This creates a repeating grain pattern that flows consistently across the panel.

The result is a uniform, continuous grain with no "mirror image" effect — the cathedrals and figure in the grain run in the same direction from sheet to sheet.

Slip matching often produces a striped effect if the grain is straight, or a flowing, consistent repeat if the grain is more figured.

Identifying Slip Matching in the Exhibit:

Option A shows consecutive veneer leaves with the grain pattern running in the same orientation across the panel — no mirroring, only repetition. This is classic slip match.

Option B shows book matching — where every other leaf is flipped horizontally to create a mirrored grain pattern.

Option C appears to be random matching — leaves are placed without grain sequence alignment.

Option D shows reverse slip matching — similar to slip match but alternating leaves are reversed end-to-end.

NCARB ARE 5.0 PDD Study Guide References:

Content Area: Integration of Materials & Finishes — Millwork and Casework Veneer Matching Methods

Sources:

Architectural Woodwork Standards (AWS) — Section on Veneer Matching

Architectural Graphic Standards — Finish Carpentry and Veneer Matching

Building Construction Illustrated (Ching) — Interior Finish Carpentry

Key Point:

Slip matching keeps all veneer leaves in the same orientation, producing a consistent flow of the grain without the mirrored effect seen in book matching.

When metals are embedded in concrete or masonry, corrosion resistance is a critical factor due to the alkaline environment and potential moisture exposure.

Stainless steel has excellent corrosion resistance, making it ideal for embedments in concrete or masonry where long-term durability is required.

Bronze is corrosion-resistant but typically used for decorative or hardware applications, not structural embedments.

Aluminum corrodes readily in alkaline concrete environments and is not suitable for embedments without protective coatings.

Cast iron is susceptible to rust and corrosion in moist conditions and is generally avoided for embedded components.

Thus, stainless steel is best suited for durability and corrosion resistance in concrete/masonry embedments.

The IBC and AWPA (American Wood Protection Association) standards require pressure treatment of wood in decay-prone climates when in contact with moisture-retaining materials (masonry/concrete), near grade, or within splash zones.

A: Moisture can wick from masonry/concrete into wood → decay risk.

B: Close proximity to soil promotes decay/insect activity.

D: Siding <6" above grade risks splashback and prolonged wetting.

E: Window casings <24" above grade are exposed to rain splash.

C: Roofing/flashing interface doesn’t require PT unless actual contact with wet substrate is expected.

F: Doors with thresholds don’t require PT unless the door bottom is wood in constant wetting.

PDD Reference: IBC §2304.11; ARE 5.0 PDD “Materials—Wood decay & termite resistance.”

In the provided pressure-plate curtain wall mullion detail, the thermal break is typically located between the interior and exterior aluminum components of the mullion to prevent conductive heat transfer.

✅ Thermal Break Location:

Look for the black or dark shaded strip in the middle of the mullion where the two separate metal parts meet — this strip is a non-metallic insulating material (usually polyamide or other plastic) that interrupts the metal-to-metal connection between interior and exterior.

In this image, the thermal break is located:

➡️ In the vertical center of the mullion, between the inner and outer aluminum extrusions, where a black isolator or separator is shown (just above and below the screw/fastener).

Clicking on this narrow dark band (thermal isolator) between the inner and outer components of the curtain wall mullion would be the correct hotspot answer.

When a GMP (Guaranteed Maximum Price) is established before the design is 100% complete and specific materials are not yet chosen, the correct approach is to specify allowances in the project manual.

An allowance is a fixed monetary amount for a specific scope item (e.g., flooring finishes) that allows the contractor to carry a cost in the bid/GMP until the actual product is selected. This ensures the GMP covers the item without delaying pricing.

A. Contingency — Is for unforeseen conditions, not specific unselected finishes.

B. Schedule of unit prices — Typically used for variable-quantity work, not for unknown product selection.

D. Alternate — Provides an option for substitution, but does not guarantee a base cost in the GMP.

PDD Reference: ARE 5.0 PDD “Project Manual and Specifications—Allowances, Alternates, and Unit Prices,” AIA A201 §3.8, CSI Division 01—General Requirements.