North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

Which type of insulation is permitted if covered adequately and meets specific construction guidelines?

1. Non-combustible insulation

2. Combustible roof insulation

3. Fiberglass insulation

4. Foam board insulation

The correct answer is: Combustible roof insulation

Combustible roof insulation can be permissible under certain conditions, particularly when it is adequately covered and meets specific construction guidelines established in building codes. The use of combustible materials in construction, especially on roofs, is carefully regulated to prevent fire hazards. When these materials are used, they must be protected by a non-combustible layer or be part of a system that reduces the risk of fire propagation. In this case, if the combustible roof insulation is covered adequately, it can provide thermal properties without compromising safety, as long as the installation adheres to the guidelines set forth in the applicable building codes. This allows builders and contractors to take advantage of the benefits of combustible insulation while still ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Other options, such as non-combustible insulation, fiberglass insulation, and foam board insulation, are either inherently non-combustible or do not fall under the same regulatory requirements as combustible materials. However, the regulations for combustible roof insulation recognize the need for flexibility in modern construction techniques, allowing it to be used safely when conditions are met.