NHIE Structural Component Terms Questions and
Correct Answers Already Graded
Attic ✓✓ A usually uninhabitable space above the ceiling of the highest
habitable area and below the roof framing. Also called a crawl space in some
markets.
Axial force (load) ✓✓ The vertical force acting on a structural member, such as
a column or a beam, that places the member under compression at the loading
point.
Basement (cellar) ✓✓ An area that is partially or completely below grade;
often has a ceiling height of 7 feet or more, but sometimes less in older houses.
Basement (daylight, walk out) ✓✓ A basement that has a door to the exterior.
Beam (girder) ✓✓ A structural member that carries loads from other
members such as joists, rafters, and other beams.
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Bow (bowed) ✓✓ A condition where a structural member is curved along its
long axis.
Ceiling joist ✓✓ A horizontal structural member that forms the ceiling of a
room below an attic.
Ceiling, vaulted ✓✓ A ceiling that extends at an angle above the top of a full-
height wall; the ceiling finish (drywall) is usually attached directly to the rafters.
Ceiling, tray (or trey) ✓✓ A horizontal ceiling raised above the top of a full-
height wall; the ceiling is often raised in one or two risers and decorated with
crown molding.
Cinder block ✓✓ A concrete masonry unit made using coal ash or other
residue of combustion. Cinder blocks are less common in modern residential
construction. Cinder blocks may contain corrosive materials. See Concrete
masonry unit (CMU).
Collar tie ✓✓ A horizontal member (usually a 1x4 or a 2x4) installed in the
upper third of the attic between two rafters to help tie rafters together at the
ridge.
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