Construction Materials & Methods Flashcards
7 cards from real CBP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Construction Materials & Methods flashcards as text
What is the minimum compressive strength typically specified for residential concrete foundations in the United States?
Answer: 2,500 psi
Residential concrete foundations are typically specified at a minimum of 2,500 psi (17.2 MPa) per ACI 318 and most residential building codes.
Which type of lumber grade is most appropriate for use as structural framing members in load-bearing walls?
Answer: Select Structural
Select Structural lumber has the highest allowable design values and is the most appropriate grade for load-bearing structural framing applications.
What does the term 'water-cement ratio' (w/c) refer to in concrete mix design?
Answer: The ratio of water to cement by weight in the concrete mix
The water-cement ratio is the ratio of the weight of mixing water to the weight of cement, and it is the primary factor controlling concrete strength and durability.
Which of the following is the primary advantage of using engineered lumber products (ELP) over dimensional sawn lumber in floor systems?
Answer: Greater dimensional consistency and span capability
Engineered lumber products offer superior dimensional stability, predictable structural performance, and the ability to span longer distances than comparable sawn lumber.
What is the purpose of a vapor retarder installed below a concrete slab-on-grade?
Answer: To prevent ground moisture from migrating up through the slab
A vapor retarder beneath a slab-on-grade prevents soil moisture from diffusing upward through the concrete, protecting flooring materials and indoor air quality.
When installing exterior wall sheathing, what is the primary structural purpose of applying structural panels such as OSB or plywood?
Answer: To add racking resistance and lateral load transfer to the wall
Structural sheathing panels act as shear panels that resist racking forces caused by wind and seismic loads, transferring lateral loads to the foundation.
Which masonry unit type is most commonly used for above-grade exterior load-bearing walls in residential construction?
Answer: Concrete Masonry Unit (CMU)
Concrete Masonry Units (CMU) are the most widely used masonry product for above-grade load-bearing exterior walls due to their strength, availability, and cost-effectiveness.