North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

What is the bearing depth of a K-series joist?

1. 300 pounds

2. 500 pounds

3. 700 pounds

4. 900 pounds

The correct answer is: 700 pounds

The bearing depth of a K-series joist is specifically designed to accommodate certain structural loads during its use in construction. K-series joists are known for their depth and are commonly utilized in roofs and floors for their efficiency and strength. The designation "bearing depth" refers to the depth of the joist over which loads are transferred to the supporting structure, such as walls or beams. In the context of K-series joists, the standard bearing depth is indeed calculated to accommodate load capacities that can often be in the neighborhood of 700 pounds, particularly for typical structural applications. This strength ensures that the joist can adequately support the weight of the building elements it carries, providing safety and stability to the structure. Understanding this is essential for contractors and engineers when designing and selecting appropriate joists for their projects, ensuring they choose a joist that can handle the anticipated loads without compromising the integrity of the structure.