North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

What is the designation of the steel deck type that measures 3" x 8" (DR)?

1. Adhesive

2. Composite

3. Light gauge

4. Structural

The correct answer is: Adhesive

The correct designation of the steel deck type measuring 3" x 8" is composite. Composite steel decks are specifically designed to work as part of a structural system when they are filled with concrete. The combination of the steel deck and the concrete creates a stronger and more rigid floor system that can carry heavier loads. When the numbers like 3" x 8" are referred to, they typically relate to the depth and span of the deck. For composite decks, this depth allows for adequate load-bearing capacity once the concrete is applied on top of it. These decks also feature specific design characteristics like ribs that can interlock with the concrete, enhancing the stability and shear transfer between the two materials. Adhesive might be relevant in construction contexts, but it does not refer to the specific designation of the deck itself. Light gauge steel decks are generally thinner and not as robust as composite or structural decks, and they serve different purposes. Structural decks are typically associated with heavier and thicker gauge materials that form the primary structure rather than working as a composite with concrete. Thus, understanding the properties and applications of these types ensures proper choice and implementation in construction projects.