NCIDQ IDFX Practice Exam

Which construction method requires careful drilling due to closely spaced reinforcing?

1. Waffle slab

2. Flat plate

3. Concrete pile

4. Block masonry

The correct answer is: Flat plate

The choice of flat plate as the construction method that requires careful drilling due to closely spaced reinforcing is based on the structural design and characteristics of flat plate systems. Flat plates consist of a flat slab that is supported directly by columns without beams. This design allows for a more open and flexible floor plan, but it also means that the reinforcement bars (rebar) used within the slab are often placed in close proximity to one another in order to manage the tensile forces effectively. When drilling into a flat plate for purposes such as running utilities or making modifications, special care must be taken to avoid damaging the reinforcing bars. Drilling through these bars can compromise the structural integrity of the slab, lead to potential issues like cracks or failure, and result in significant repair costs. Therefore, heightened attention is required to ensure that drilling activities do not interfere with the closely spaced reinforcement that is critical to the plate's performance. Other construction methods such as waffle slabs, concrete piles, and block masonry typically involve different reinforcement strategies or structural configurations that do not necessitate the same level of caution when drilling. Waffle slabs have a grid-like structure which may distribute reinforcement differently; concrete piles involve vertical cylindrical elements primarily used for deep foundation support, and block masonry consists of stacked units that do