North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

A cut made across the grain of a board is known as what type of cut?

1. Rip cut

2. Cross-cut

3. Table cut

4. Shear cut

The correct answer is: Cross-cut

A cut made across the grain of a board is referred to as a cross-cut. This type of cut is essential in woodworking and construction as it allows for the shortening of lumber pieces without disrupting the grain pattern. In a cross-cut, the saw blade moves in a direction perpendicular to the grain, which is crucial to ensure a clean and precise cut. The focus in cross-cutting is specifically on the orientation of the grain, which produces a different finish and structural integrity compared to cuts made along the grain. Understanding how to properly execute a cross-cut is fundamental for contractors and builders, as it affects both the aesthetic qualities and function of the finished product. In contrast, a rip cut refers to cutting along the grain, which has distinct characteristics. Other terms, like table cut or shear cut, are less common in this context and do not specifically describe the act of cutting across the grain in the same way. Therefore, recognizing the terminology associated with different types of cuts is crucial for proficiency in construction and woodworking.