Exterior

Question 1

When asphalt shingles are used for vertical applications (i.e. as siding), how many nails per shingle are required?

Answer 1

6 nails per shingle.

Question 2

At a roof/sidewall intersection, what distance between the step flashing and siding is required to prevent water from being wicked up into the siding?

Answer 2

2 inch clearance.

Question 3

How can you identify brick veener vs solid masonry?

Answer 3

Brick Veneer:
- Usually have weep holes
- Typically no masonry arches
- No header brick courses

Solid Masonry:
- Weep holes
- Typically have masonry arches
(instead of lintels)
- Header brick courses

Question 4

The ground immediately adjacent to the foundation should slope away from the house a minimum of __________________

Answer 4

1 inch per foot for the first 6 feet.
(6 inches in the first 6 feet)

Question 5

What clearance is required from grade to the bottom of siding for:

Siding / Stucco? _________
Masonry? _______________

Answer 5

Siding/Stucco: 8 inches
Masonry: 6 inches

Question 6

What wire clearances are required around windows?

Answer 6

3 feet from the sides, front, and bottom.
(ALL windows, operable or not)

Question 7

What is the biggest source of problems associated with metal and vinyl sidings?

Answer 7

Problems with installation.

Question 8

Does stucco perform better over masonry walls or over wood-frame construction?

Answer 8

Masonry.

Question 9

What is the maximum spindle spacing allowed?

Answer 9

4 inches (6 inches in some areas)
[4” - 6” sphere should be unable to pass through]

Question 10

1) What height above ground is a patio guardrail required?
2) What is the minimum required guardrail height?

Answer 10

1) > 30 inches off ground.
2) 36 inches (unless used for handrail on stairs = 34 inches)

Question 11

Where are handrails required on stairs?

Answer 11

Provided on at least one side of each continuous run of treads or a flight with 4 or more risers.
(should be tube or oval type and continuously grippable)

Question 12

1) What is the maximum allowable riser height and minimum tread depth on stairs?

2) What is the maximum allowable difference in riser height?

Answer 12

1) Riser Height: max. 7 3/4”
Tread Depth: min. 10”

2) 3/8”

Question 13

What are the diagonal supports of a stair called?

Answer 13

Stringers.

Question 14

What is the biggest problem with building on clay soil?

Answer 14

Clay soils expands when wet and shrinks when dry. (Common cause of structural failure)

Question 15

What clearance is required between the gravel and the bottom of the window in a window well?

Answer 15

6 inches.

Question 16

The most important function of gutters and downspouts?

Answer 16

To ensure a dry basement.

Question 17

What does EIFS stand for?

Answer 17

Exterior Insulation and Finish System.

Question 18

1) How much ventilation is required in a crawlspace if a ground moisture barrier is present?

2) How much ventilation is required in a crawlspace if a ground moisture barrier is NOT present.

Answer 18

1) 1 sq. ft. of ventilation for every 1500 sq. ft.

2) 1) 1 sq. ft. of ventilation for every 150 sq. ft.

Question 19

What is often used as part of the anchoring system in a retaining wall?

Answer 19

a “Deadman”