Core Construction Skills Flashcards

What is the minimum overlap required when lapping roofing felt (tar paper) on a residential roof?

Answer: 4 inches

Roofing felt should overlap a minimum of 4 inches at horizontal seams to prevent water infiltration beneath the shingles.

Which tool is used to measure and transfer a consistent distance parallel to an edge when laying out cabinet installation lines?

Answer: Marking gauge

A marking gauge has an adjustable fence that rides along an edge to scribe a consistent line at a set distance.

A homeowner reports a GFI outlet that won't reset. What is the most likely cause?

Answer: A downstream fault or overload is still present

A GFCI outlet will not reset if a ground fault or wiring issue still exists on the protected circuit downstream.

When installing ceramic floor tile, what is the purpose of back-buttering?

Answer: Applying adhesive to both the floor and the tile back for better bond

Back-buttering applies thin-set mortar to the back of the tile in addition to the floor, ensuring full contact and preventing hollow spots.

What does 'on center' (OC) mean in framing specifications such as '16" OC'?

Answer: The distance measured from the center of one stud to the center of the next

On center (OC) spacing is measured from the center of one framing member to the center of the next adjacent member.

Which type of caulk is best suited for sealing around a bathtub where it meets the tile surround?

Answer: Silicone caulk

Silicone caulk is waterproof, flexible, and mold-resistant, making it the standard choice for wet areas like tub-tile joints.

What is the correct way to dispose of lead-based paint chips discovered during a renovation?

Answer: Wet-wipe surfaces, bag debris in heavy plastic, follow local hazardous waste regulations

Lead paint debris must be wet-wiped to suppress dust, sealed in heavy plastic bags, and disposed of per local hazardous waste regulations.