CRC Materials & Equipment Knowledge 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What ASTM standard governs the testing and classification of exterior-grade plywood used in residential construction?
- ASTM C150
- ASTM A36
- ASTM D3737
- APA PS 1 (Correct answer)
Correct answer: APA PS 1
APA PS 1 is the US Product Standard for construction and industrial plywood, governing grades, dimensions, and performance requirements.
Question 2: Which type of nail is most appropriate for fastening treated lumber in contact with the ground or concrete?
- Bright common nails
- Vinyl-coated sinker nails
- Hot-dipped galvanized or stainless steel nails (Correct answer)
- Electro-galvanized nails
Correct answer: Hot-dipped galvanized or stainless steel nails
Hot-dipped galvanized or stainless steel nails are required for pressure-treated lumber because the treatment chemicals corrode lesser-coated fasteners.
Question 3: What is the typical R-value of a standard 2x6 wall cavity filled with fiberglass batt insulation?
- R-11
- R-15
- R-19 (Correct answer)
- R-21
Correct answer: R-19
A 2x6 stud wall cavity (5.5 inches deep) filled with standard fiberglass batt insulation achieves approximately R-19.
Question 4: Which copper pipe type has the thinnest wall and is typically used for interior water distribution in residential construction?
- Type K
- Type L
- Type M (Correct answer)
- Type DWV
Correct answer: Type M
Type M copper has the thinnest wall of the three pressure-rated types and is commonly used for interior residential water supply lines.
Question 5: What is the standard slope (pitch) recommended for residential drainage of a concrete patio or sidewalk away from the foundation?
- 1/8 inch per foot
- 1/4 inch per foot (Correct answer)
- 1/2 inch per foot
- 1 inch per foot
Correct answer: 1/4 inch per foot
Concrete flatwork adjacent to a building should slope a minimum of 1/4 inch per foot (2%) away from the structure for proper drainage.
Question 6: Which window glazing type provides the best combination of solar heat gain control and visible light transmittance in hot climates?
- Clear double-pane glass
- Tinted single-pane glass
- Low-E coated double-pane glass (Correct answer)
- Reflective coated single-pane glass
Correct answer: Low-E coated double-pane glass
Low-E (low-emissivity) coated double-pane glass reflects radiant heat while allowing visible light, making it the most effective option for hot climates.
Question 7: What does the 'C' designation in a concrete mix such as '4000C' indicate?
- Coarse aggregate size
- Cement type
- Compressive strength in psi (Correct answer)
- Curing method
Correct answer: Compressive strength in psi
The number in a concrete designation like '4000C' refers to the 28-day compressive strength in pounds per square inch (psi).
CRC Materials & Equipment Knowledge 3
What ASTM standard governs the testing and classification of exterior-grade plywood used in residential construction?