Construction Technology and Materials
Construction Technology and Materials tests your command of the physical products and site processes behind a budget line: concrete, masonry, steel, timber, insulation and waterproofing.
Concrete
EHE-08 governs structural concrete. Specify strength class (e.g. C25/30), consistency (slump), maximum aggregate size, cement content and water/cement ratio. Curing preserves moisture so the specified strength develops. Cover protects reinforcement from corrosion and fire.
Masonry and finishes
Mortar strength and brick suction control bond. Movement joints absorb thermal and moisture movement. Waterproofing relies on continuity, laps and upstands, not on the membrane alone. Steel needs cover and fire protection; timber needs moisture control and correct grading.
Worked example
A C25/30 mix with w/c = 0.50 and 350 kg/m³ of cement needs 175 litres of water per m³. If the site adds water to improve workability, the w/c rises, strength and durability fall. The perito should check the delivery note, slump test and cube results rather than accept the visual appearance.
Traps
- Confusing strength class with cement content.
- Assuming a darker or stiffer mix is stronger.
- Ignoring thermal bridging at balconies and lintels.
- Accepting waterproofing without a flood test or lap check.