General Contractor License Materials and Methods of Construction 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What does a concrete slump test measure?
- Compressive strength of hardened concrete
- Air content of fresh concrete
- Workability and consistency of fresh concrete (Correct answer)
- Aggregate gradation of the mix design
Correct answer: Workability and consistency of fresh concrete
The slump test measures the workability (consistency and fluidity) of fresh concrete by recording how much a standard cone of concrete settles after the mold is removed.
Question 2: Which plywood grade designation indicates that both faces are sanded and free of open defects?
- C-D
- B-C
- A-A (Correct answer)
- C-C
Correct answer: A-A
A-A plywood has both faces graded 'A,' meaning they are smooth, paintable, and free of open defects, making it suitable for fine finish applications.
Question 3: What is the purpose of expansion joints in concrete flatwork?
- To increase the load-bearing capacity of the slab
- To allow independent movement between sections and prevent cracking (Correct answer)
- To provide a drainage channel for surface water
- To improve the bond between the slab and subbase
Correct answer: To allow independent movement between sections and prevent cracking
Expansion joints separate concrete sections so each can expand, contract, and settle independently, preventing uncontrolled cracking from thermal and moisture movement.
Question 4: Which drywall type is required by code in areas exposed to high moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens?
- Standard 1/2-inch Type X drywall
- Moisture-resistant (green board) or cement backer board (Correct answer)
- Regular 5/8-inch drywall
- Foil-faced insulated drywall
Correct answer: Moisture-resistant (green board) or cement backer board
Moisture-resistant gypsum board or cement backer board is required in wet areas because standard drywall deteriorates rapidly when repeatedly exposed to moisture.
Question 5: What is the correct water-to-cement ratio (w/c) guideline for producing durable, high-strength concrete?
- Higher w/c ratios produce stronger concrete
- Lower w/c ratios produce stronger, more durable concrete (Correct answer)
- The w/c ratio has no effect on concrete strength
- A w/c ratio above 0.70 is required for workability without admixtures
Correct answer: Lower w/c ratios produce stronger, more durable concrete
A lower water-to-cement ratio reduces porosity and increases compressive strength and durability; excess water creates voids as it evaporates, weakening the matrix.
Question 6: Which fire-resistance rating is typically required for a floor-ceiling assembly separating dwelling units in a two-family residential building?
- 30 minutes
- 45 minutes
- 1 hour (Correct answer)
- 2 hours
Correct answer: 1 hour
IBC and IRC typically require a minimum 1-hour fire-resistance rating for floor-ceiling assemblies separating dwelling units to allow safe egress time in the event of fire.
Question 7: What is the function of flashing in a building assembly?
- To provide a decorative trim element at wall and roof intersections
- To direct water away from vulnerable joints and penetrations (Correct answer)
- To serve as a fire stop between combustible and non-combustible materials
- To anchor roofing membranes against wind uplift
Correct answer: To direct water away from vulnerable joints and penetrations
Flashing is sheet metal or membrane material installed at joints, transitions, and penetrations to redirect water away from the building envelope and prevent infiltration.
General Contractor License Materials and Methods of Construction 2
What does a concrete slump test measure?