North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

The minimum size screws used to attach steel decking are__________.

1. 18

2. 20

3. 22

4. 24

The correct answer is: 22

The minimum size screws used to attach steel decking being 22-gauge is critical for ensuring proper connection strength and structural integrity. In construction, particularly when working with steel, it's essential that the fasteners used are robust enough to handle both the loads applied to the decking and the potential environmental factors that can affect the building's performance over time. Choosing a 22-gauge screw typically refers to the thickness of the metal used and its ability to provide sufficient strength without being overly bulky or difficult to work with. Industry standards and best practices in metal construction dictate the use of this size to ensure the screws properly engage with the decking and maintain long-term durability. Using screws that are too thin or not rated for structural connections can lead to failures, which could compromise safety and lead to significant costly repairs. Thus, opting for 22-gauge screws is aligned with the requirements for securing steel decking effectively while adhering to both safety regulations and building codes necessary in North Carolina and generally in construction practices.