North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

What is the minimum length that bolts shall extend into masonry for anchoring?

1. 6 inches

2. 8 inches

3. 10 inches

4. 12 inches

The correct answer is: 8 inches

The minimum length that bolts must extend into masonry for anchoring is established to ensure a strong and secure connection. The requirement for bolts to extend a minimum of 8 inches into masonry provides adequate embedment, which contributes to the structural integrity of the anchorage. This length helps distribute the load effectively across the masonry, reducing the likelihood of failure due to shear or pull-out forces. A minimum embedment depth also accommodates potential variations in the density and quality of the masonry, ensuring that the bolts achieve the necessary grip to support structural elements, such as frames, walls, or other components. In construction, using the correct embedment length for anchoring materials is critical for safety and performance, making the specification of 8 inches a standard guideline in construction practices. Proper adherence to this minimum length requirement helps contractors and builders ensure compliance with building codes and standards, ultimately promoting durability and stability in the masonry work.