North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

What is the minimum thickness of a masonry bearing wall for a one-story construction?

1. 10 inches

2. 12 inches

3. 8 inches

4. 6 inches

The correct answer is: 8 inches

The minimum thickness of a masonry bearing wall for one-story construction is typically set at eight inches. This thickness provides adequate support for the loads that will be carried by the wall, including both dead loads, such as the weight of the wall itself, and live loads, such as furniture or occupants. An eight-inch thickness strikes a balance between structural integrity and material efficiency. It ensures that the wall can bear the appropriate loads while also being economical in terms of material usage. Thicker walls may be required for taller structures or those that are subjected to additional loads, but for a single-story building, an eight-inch masonry wall is sufficient and compliant with standard building codes in many areas, including North Carolina. Other thickness options like six inches would typically not meet the structural requirements for a bearing wall, as they may not provide enough strength or stability. Conversely, options that suggest thicker walls than eight inches, such as ten or twelve inches, may exceed what is necessary for one-story construction and might result in unnecessary material costs without significant structural benefits.