North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

What type of construction should not have masonry supported on it?

1. Wood girders

2. Metal beams

3. Roof diaphragms

4. Composite materials

The correct answer is: Roof diaphragms

In construction, a roof diaphragm typically serves as a horizontal structural element that helps distribute lateral forces (such as wind or seismic loads) across a building. Roof diaphragms are designed to be efficient in resisting these loads and maintaining the structural integrity of the building. However, they are not designed to bear heavy vertical loads or support masonry walls. Masonry, particularly when it comes to brick or stone, is relatively heavy and requires a robust structural support system. Wood girders, metal beams, and composite materials are all capable of handling the load that masonry imposes. They provide sufficient strength and stability to support such heavy materials safely. In contrast, roof diaphragms, while effective for lateral load distribution, lack the appropriate load-bearing capacity for supporting the vertical weight of masonry. Therefore, placing masonry on a roof diaphragm could compromise the structural integrity of both the masonry and the diaphragm itself. This understanding is critical for ensuring that each component of the structure is properly supported, thus avoiding potential failures or safety hazards.