North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

For plywood used as sheathing, spacing should be how many inches between each sheet?

1. 1 inch

2. 1/4 inch

3. 1/2 inch

4. 3/8 inch

The correct answer is: 1/2 inch

For plywood used as sheathing, the correct spacing between each sheet is 1/2 inch. This spacing is essential to accommodate the natural expansion and contraction of wood as it responds to moisture and temperature changes. When plywood panels are installed, they must not be tightly butt together; instead, the gap allows for movement without causing buckling or warping, which can ultimately affect the integrity of the sheathing and the building's overall construction. If the sheets were placed closer together, such as at 1/4 inch or not provided with any spacing, it could lead to issues when the material expands. Conversely, larger spacings could also weaken the structure by creating potential points of vulnerability where leakage or air infiltration may occur. Therefore, the 1/2 inch spacing is a standard recommendation in building codes and practices to ensure that the plywood sheathing performs effectively and maintains structural integrity over time.