North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

What must bridging attachment to the joist be able to resist?

1. A weight of at least 300 pounds

2. A vertical force of at least 500 pounds

3. A horizontal force of not less than 200 pounds

4. It is not allowed under any circumstances

The correct answer is: It is not allowed under any circumstances

Bridging is a critical component in framing that helps stabilize the structure and prevent lateral movement of the joists. Proper attachment of bridging to the joist is essential for ensuring that the entire assembly can resist various forces often encountered in a building's life. The correct understanding of bridging attachment requirements centers on the necessity for these attachments to provide adequate support against specific forces. In most building codes, bridging is designed to accommodate horizontal forces, especially those caused by wind or seismic activity. When assessing the options, it is clear that the proper installation of bridging should focus on resisting lateral or horizontal forces to enhance the overall performance and stability of the framed structure. Therefore, the critical point is that bridging should not be compromised or disallowed. Instead, it plays an important role in maintaining the strength and integrity of joists, especially as they are subjected to various loads during construction and throughout the life of the building. Recognizing that bridging should always be utilized, given its importance in structural stability, reinforces understanding of proper building practices.