CBI Structural Systems Inspection 2

Question 1

Under the IRC, notches in the top or bottom of a sawn lumber floor joist may not exceed what fraction of the joist depth (excluding end notches)?

Accepted Answer

One-sixth

Answer

IRC R502.8 limits notches to one-sixth of the joist depth and prohibits them in the middle third of the span.

Question 2

Bored holes in a sawn lumber floor joist must be kept at least how far from the top or bottom edge of the joist?

Accepted Answer

2 inches

Answer

IRC R502.8 requires holes to be no closer than 2 inches to the top or bottom edge and no larger than one-third of the joist depth.

Question 3

An inspector sees a long horizontal crack running along the middle height of a concrete block basement wall, which bows inward slightly. What is the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Lateral soil or hydrostatic pressure

Answer

Horizontal cracking with inward bowing in block walls typically comes from lateral pressure from the soil outside and should be referred to a structural engineer.

Question 4

What is the minimum bearing length required for the end of a wood joist resting on concrete or masonry under the IRC?

Accepted Answer

3 inches

Answer

IRC R502.6 requires 3 inches of bearing on masonry or concrete and 1-1/2 inches on wood or metal.

Question 5

During an attic inspection, an inspector finds that a web member of a factory-built roof truss has been cut to make room for an HVAC unit. What is the proper recommendation?

Accepted Answer

Refer to a qualified engineer for a repair design

Answer

Trusses are engineered systems, and any altered member requires an engineer-designed repair.

CBI - Certified Building Inspector Practice Test

CBI - Certified Building Inspector Practice Test

CBI Structural Systems Inspection 2