North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

When is fireblocking required, and what is the maximum spacing allowed?

1. 10 feet

2. 15 feet

3. 10 inches

4. 15 inches

The correct answer is: 15 feet

Fireblocking is an essential component in building construction that helps to prevent the spread of fire and smoke within wall and ceiling cavities. It is typically required in specific conditions, such as at floor levels, within walls, and at any points where there are openings that could allow fire to travel from one area to another. In the context of North Carolina building codes, fireblocking is required at certain intervals to create effective barriers that restrict the movement of fire. The maximum spacing allowed between fireblocking is 15 feet. This means that fireblocking should be installed whenever the distance between two horizontal surfaces exceeds this measurement, ensuring additional protection and containment in the event of a fire. Understanding the spacing requirements for fireblocking is critical for maintaining safety standards in construction and for compliance with local building codes, which aim to minimize the risk of fire hazards in residential and commercial buildings.