North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

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Which type of construction is preferred for anchoring roof diaphragms in the absence of masonry walls?

  1. Metal beams

  2. Wood girders

  3. Steel panels

  4. Concrete slabs

The correct answer is: Wood girders

The preferred method for anchoring roof diaphragms in the absence of masonry walls is to use wood girders. Wood girders provide adequate strength and flexibility for transferring loads from the roof diaphragm to shear walls or other structural elements that can effectively resist lateral forces. Wood has been widely used in construction due to its favorable material properties, including lightweight characteristics, ease of handling and installation, and sufficient load-bearing capability. Additionally, wood girders allow for adequate connections to the roof diaphragm, facilitating the transfer of lateral loads that are common due to wind or seismic activities. In contrast, the other materials mentioned may not offer the same combination of advantages. Metal beams, while strong, can be heavier and may require more complex connections, which could increase the overall construction cost and complexity. Steel panels provide a rigid solution but may not be as versatile in all construction scenarios without the right supporting framework. Concrete slabs offer significant mass and strength but can be more difficult to handle and may not integrate as seamlessly with roof diaphragms compared to wood girders. Thus, wood girders are typically preferred because they align well with the practical needs of anchoring roof diaphragms in a way that balances performance, ease of use, and overall construction efficiency.