1.

Research each of the following wall systems for use as an exterior wall on the
second floor at column line 3 in Keystone building.
2. Label the components of each wall (including at least exterior finish, insulation,
and interior finish) on each sketch.
3. Give the specifications for the wall components such as materials, thickness of
component, and type of insulation.
4. Give at least one advantage and one disadvantage of each wall system for use in
this application.

Wall Type

SKETCH

Advantages and
Disadvantages

Concrete Masonry
Unit (CMU)
Brick Venire Air
gap Insulation R19 24in. oncenter Concrete
Masonry Unit (CMU)

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Civil Engineering and Architecture Activity 3.1.3 Commercial Wall Systems Page 1

Cast-in-Place
concrete
Brick Venire Air
Gap Insulation R18 24in. on-center
Concrete

Concrete walls are

formed, reinforced,
and poured in
place.

Concrete is
reinforced with
steel bars to
improve tensile
and bending
strength.

Tilt-up Concrete
Venire Concrete
Insulation R-30 24in.
on-centerConcrete

Can be formed into

a variety of shapes
and sizes
Different surface
treatments and
form inserts can be
used to create a
wide variety of
surface textures
Relatively quick
design and
construction time

Light Gauge Metal

Framing
BrickAir
gapWeather
barrierInsulation R38 (?) 24in. on-center

Curtain Wall
GlassMetal support

- Provides natural heat to

building.
- Aesthetics

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Civil Engineering and Architecture Activity 3.1.3 Commercial Wall Systems Page 2

Select a wall type for the Keystone Library application and justify your choice.
All Glass for exterior as it provides visual aesthetics as well as natural heat
during the winter months. For the interior there will be load bearing tilt-up walls as
they allow for improved aesthetics and
5. Include the new wall construction in the building 3D architectural model.
6. Create a section view (in the architectural software) through the new wall. Label
all building components.

Conclusion
1. Explain why the materials used in a residential wall system are different from a
commercial system.
Commercial buildings require an immense amount of materials for construction as the
building itself is larger and must be capable of holding a heavier load than a residential
structure.
2. Why is concrete a popular commercial construction material?
It is strong, durable, and easy to manipulate into whatever form is required for the
construction. As well as being relatively cheap.
3. What factors affect the selection of the exterior faade of a commercial structure?
Aesthetics, geographic region, climate, sun orientation, etc.

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Civil Engineering and Architecture Activity 3.1.3 Commercial Wall Systems Page 3