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36 questions from the residential building inspector practice test.
10 questions, graded as you go, with the reason for every answer. No sign-up.
What is the minimum bearing length for the end of a wood floor joist or beam that rests directly on masonry or concrete?
A. 3 inches
Bearing on masonry or concrete is at least 3 inches, twice the 1-1/2 inches required on wood or metal, because the member must spread its load over a material that can crush or spall at a narrow edge.
Reference: IRC 2021, Chapter 5 (Floors): wood floor framing; bearing
Where along the span of a solid-sawn floor joist is a notch in the top or bottom edge prohibited?
D. In the middle third of the span
Bending stress is greatest near midspan, so notches are not allowed in the middle third. Notches within the outer thirds are limited to one-sixth of the joist depth, and notches at the ends to one-fourth of the depth.
Reference: IRC 2021, Chapter 5 (Floors): wood floor framing; drilling and notching
A hole is bored through a sawn-lumber floor joist for a drain line. How close to the top or bottom edge of the joist may the edge of the hole be?
C. No closer than 2 inches
Holes in sawn joists must be at least 2 inches from the top and bottom edges and from any other hole or notch, which keeps them near the neutral axis where bending stress is low. Five-eighths inch is the edge distance for holes in wall studs.
Reference: IRC 2021, Chapter 5 (Floors): wood floor framing; drilling and notching