CSLB B License General Contractor Exam Questions and Answers 2022/2023| 100% Correct Verified Answers

If unused mortar stiffens due to hydration of cement, what must you do?
Discard the mortar

What minimum time must you wait before caulking or grouting new tiles?
24-48 Hours

How long should you wait before installing tile on a shower pan?
24 Hours

Unstable dry rock, angular gravel, sandy loam, and cohesive soils having compressive strengths greater than 0.5 and less than 1.5 tons/sq ft (tsf), are typical examples of:
Type-B Soils

If 65 street lights are fed by a 2275 volt series circuit, what is the voltage across each light?
35V

In a series circuit, the total voltage is divided equally.

For safety reasons, the maximum simple slope of an excavation, up to 20 ft deep, in Type-B soil is:
1:1 (45°)

A Pittsburgh joint is used in:
HVAC ductwork

The drain for a pressure relief valve on a water heater should be extended to:
The outside of the building

What is the minimum slope toward the drain of a shower pan?
1/4″ per foot (2%)

What is the diameter of #3 rebar?
3/8″

If a vendor fails to provide an MSDS, you have the right to call:
Cal/OSHA or DOSH

When installing a door jamb, you need shims at:
Both hinge and strike sides, three on each side.

Which of the following is used to adhere vinyl floors?

A. Epoxy cement
B. Asphalt mastic
C. Latex primer
D. White glue
Epoxy cement

When do you need bracing for a drywall wall?
Diagonal bracing is needed every 25′ for any drywall wall.

How should you clear the roots from a construction site?
Clear roots to 12″ below grade.

Dividing watts by amps gives you:
Volts

The most frequent on-the-job roofing accidents are:
Falls

Which of the following is NOT a type of wood block flooring?

A. Parquet
B. Wood Mosaic
C. Wood Tile
D. All of the above.
Wood tile

Lightweight concrete is best used for:

A. Curb and Gutter
B. Second floor decking
C. First floor slab on grade
D. Footings
Second floor decking

The tool used to carry grout needed to patch a small hole is a:

A. Hawk
B. Poling board
C. Spot board
D. Mason’s scutch
Spot Board

Which pipe is NOT appropriate for industrial wastes?

A. Cast iron
B. Schedule 40 ABS DWV
C. Extra strength vitrified clay
D. Copper
Copper

Where do you need a fire wall?

A. Between a living room and a bedroom
B. Between a bedroom and a bathroom
C. Between a kitchen and a bath
D. A separation wall between a dwelling and an attachment
A separation wall between a dwelling and an attachment.

What is the minimum clearance between rough ground and untreated subfloor joists?
18 inches

Who may remove asbestos?
Contractor with Asbestos Certification on license.

Which of the following is NOT likely to be found in significant proportions in granular soil?

A. Gravel
B. Sand
C. Silt
D. Clay
Clay

Stiles and rails are used on which of the following?

A. Furred walls
B. Roofs
C. Windows
D. Slabs
Windows.

A stile is the vertical edges of the window and the rails are the bottom and top.

What does a high slump test indicate?
Too much water.

Metal concrete forms should be?

A. Oiled
B. Watered
C. Placed against gravel
D. Discarded after each use
Oiled

What does the R mean in a description of insulation?
Resistance

What kind of door would you install for someone with a disability?

A. Automatic with minimum of 3 seconds to close
B. Automatic with maximum of 5 seconds to open
C. Manual with maximum of 8.5 pounds to operate
D. Either A or C
Either A or C

Triple-walled metal chimney installations are regulated by:
ICC

ICC-IBC-IRC is the international code council. IBC is international building code commercial. IRC is the international residential code.

If you are a general contractor, you should call a specialty contractor when:
You encounter an unfamiliar trade.

When a stairway serves a public building, what is the minimum number of steps for which a handrail is required?
Two

What is the minimum underlayment for asphalt shingles?
15 pounds

How long should you wait before sealing new tile work?
2 weeks

When do you install insulation?
After the electrical and plumbing are approved.

When do you NOT need an exhaust fan in a bathroom?
When there is a window in the bathroom.

What is a bush-hammer used for?
Roughen surface of hardened concrete.

When you say a wall is perfect it is:
Both plumb and straight.

The purpose of a batter board in concrete work is:
Support layout strings when location foundations.

What is the difference between a hip jack rafter and a common rafter?
A hip jack runs from the top plate to a hip rafter, but a common rafter runs to the ridge board.

When should you float a concrete surface?
As soon as the water sheen evaporates

When installing drywall screws you should:

A. Countersink
B. Drive just below the face of the board
C. Leave slightly above the surface
D. Use the highest torque setting
Drive just below the face of the board without breaking the paper.

Before placing tile with mastic, you should:
Seal the surface.

At an excavation, an Underground Service Alert (U.S.A) marking on the dirt that uses red paint or chalk means:
Electric power

How many diameters is the minimum lap (overlap) between sections of rebar in reinforced masonry?

A. 7
B. 12
C. 24
D. 30
30 diameters

What is the minimum length of a handrail extension that is required for a stairway?
12″

When may a contractor work alone on a roof at a construction site?
Never

A Freon recovery system is required when:

A. Replacing a burnt out rotor in a hermetic unit
B. Overhauling a rooftop A/C unit
C. Scrapping an old refrigeration unit
D. All of the above
All of the above

Which of the following would you use to install roofing tiles?

A. Slathers stake
B. Any roofing tool
C. Roofers hatchet
D. Masking tape
A slathers stake

A slathers stake looks like the head of a hammerhead shark. The head forms a T with the shaft, but the head is slightly bent. It provides a flat, straight edge for cutting and trimming your slate.

When determining the layout of a residential building, the most important element to take into account is the:
Property lines

Where should the first upper cabinet be installed?
At an inside corner

Cemented soil:
Cannot be crushed into individual particles with fingers

Which tool is best for measuring odd angles in an existing structure?
Bevel square

From the following list, the best choice of woods for exterior carpentry are:

A. Redwood and bald cypress
B. Spruce and fir
C. Pine and sugar maple
D. Fir and hemlock
Redwood and bald cypress

If a contractor discovers damaged utilities when starting a job, he should:
Call the utility department involved.

Type-C soils have a compression strength of no more than 0.5 tsp. Which of the following would not be classified as a Type-C soil?

A. Rounded gravel
B. Crushed rock
C. Sand or loamy sand
D. Water-logged soil or submerged unstable rock
Crushed rock

What is the correct exposure for typical hip tiles?
6″ Hip and ridge tiles are always installed with a 6″ exposure.

Which type of window requires tempered glass?

A. Skylight
B. Sliding Glass Door
C. Exposed top edge is less than 36″ from the floor
D. Exposed bottom edge is more than 18″ from the floor
Sliding glass door.

The correct sequence for installing vapor barrier is:

A. Siding-shear panel-paper
B. Shear panel-paper-siding
C. Paper-siding-shear panel
D. Shear panel-siding-paper
Shear panel-paper-siding

What is the slope in degrees of a roof with a rise of 12 and a run of 12?

A. 22.5 degrees
B. 45.0 degrees
C. 50.0 degrees
D. 90.0 degrees
45 degrees.

How deep must electrical be in a public area if the conduit is PVC and there is no vehicle traffic?
18″

In electrical work, the green wire is the:
Grounding conductor

What is the longest length ladder that Cal/OSHA approves?
44′ is the longest ladder Cal/OSHA approves

Under what condition can you add one additional layer to existing asphalt shingles on a roof?
If the roof is less than three layers.

How should a residential water heater be protected from earthquakes?
It should be attached to a wall.

You would use a 1.5 GPM fixture when:
You want to conserve water

The best way to handle an I-beam is with a:
Nylon strap

To determine if a wall is plumb, us a:
Level and straight edge

The minimum required thickness for tempered glass used in residential shower doors is:
1/8 is the minimum required thickness

How many board feet are in a 5″D x 6″W x 20’L beam?
50 board feet.

Thickness X Width X Length in Inches dived by 144.

When nailing roofing, the railheads:

A. Should be brought almost to the surface of the shingle
B. Should not exert any pressure on the roofing
C. Should never be overdriven
D. All of the above
All of the above

Soldering of a copper pipe fitting is completed when:
Solder appears all around the joint.

What is the maximum spacing of single nails in a single layer of drywall on the ceiling?
7″ is the maximum spacing of single nails in a single layer of a drywall ceiling.

In construction, a hazardous area should be marked with what color tape?
Yellow tape should be used to mark off a hazardous area.

Green board would be used for?
Bathroom walls or possible wet locations.

The minimum size vent for a water closet is:
1 1/2″ minimum vent size for a water closet.

Which tool would you use to apply mortar 1/2″ thick?
Trowel

When preparing plaster for a ceiling, which quantity is most important to monitor in the mixture?
Water

In a work space, travel distance to a fire extinguisher must not be more than how many feet?
75′ is the maximum travel distance to a fire extinguisher in a work space.

What sort of subfloor material would you use if the edges meet over the floor joist?
Plywood

In framing, a look out is a(n):
Cantilevered beam

When would you wet brick masonry?
Before building a brick wall in warm weather.

Which of the following does NOT need a fixed lighting outlet?

A. Bedroom ceiling
B. Furnace space and attic
C. Stairway
D. Exterior door
Exterior door

How many days should you wait between the brown coat and the finish coat when plastering?
7 days between BROWN coat and the FINISH coat.

How many days in advance must you notify authorities before digging an excavation 5′ deep into which a worker must go?
2 days

How do you decide which metal bracket to use?
Per specification in the construction documents.

How would you best determine if a soil is expansive?
Have the soil tested

Where would be the best place to look for a roof leak?
Valley flashings are the best place to look for a roof leak.

What is the purpose of a condenser line for a furnace vent fan?
Help remove accumulated water in the vent.

What is a register used for?
A register is used to supply air.

The safety valve on a portable air compressor should be popped at least:
The safety valve on a portable air compressor should be popped at least weekly.

Which of the following materials is acceptable for interior gas lines?

A. Copper
B. PVC
C. Iron or steel
D. ABS
Iron or steel is acceptable for interior gas lines.

If a circular slab is a 45′ in diameter, how much surface area does it cover?
Over 1,500 feet

What material do you use to clean brushes and spills when painting with alkyd (oil) paints?
Paint thinner is to be used to clean up oil based paints and stains.

Fiberglass insulation for walls should be attached to:

A. The interior of the studs
B. The face of the studs
C. The top and bottom of the studs
D. There is no need to attach
There is no need to attach.

Basement concrete walls should have a minimum test PSI at 30 days of:
A basement concrete wall should have a minimum of 3000 psi after 30 days.

The term Ufer is associated with which trade?

A. Roofing
B. Plumbing
C. Plastering
D. Electrical
Electrical

When working on rolling scaffolding, which of the following statements is correct?

A. A locking system is required for each wheel.
B. The scaffold must be able to support four times the designed weight limit.
C. Scaffold wheels must be locked when in position.
D. All of the above.
All of the above.

What would you use to header a 4′ opening?

A. 2 each 2″ x 6″ continuous
B. 4″ x 6″ continuous
C. 2″ x 8″ continuous
D. double 2″ x 8″ with plywood filler
2 Each 2″ x 6″ continuous

The wall between a garage and a bedroom must be at least:
The wall between a garage and a bedroom must be at least 5/8″ drywall or 2 layers of 3/8″ drywall.

A self-closing door is best for a doorway between:
Kitchen and garage.

A waste water pipe, or DWV ( Drain-Waste-Vent), can have an outlet into any of the following EXCEPT a:

A. Sanitary Drain
B. Sewer
C. Natural Pond
D. Septic tank, seepage pit, or cesspool.
Natural Pond

How far above a swimming pool do power lines have to be?
Power lines need to be a minimum of 18′ above a swimming pool.

An underground utility line is marked with paint. What is the minimum distance mechanical excavating equipment must stay from the paint mark?
24″ is the minimum distance mechanical excavating equipment must stay from utility paint marks.

What is the minimum cover for rebar in a concrete footing cast against and permanently exposed to earth?
3″

What type water supply do you use for a water closet (W.C.)?

A. Hot water
B. Cold water
C. Drain water
D. Ground water
Cold water

The measuring unit of heating and cooling is:
BTU is the unit of measurement for heating and cooling.

The maximum height from which concrete should be poured from is:
6′ is the maximum height in which concrete can be poured from.

When you install iron bars on an emergency escape or rescue window, what is NOT required?

A. A key lock to open from the outside
B. Smoke detector
C. The ability to open from the inside without a key
D. None of the above is required
A key lock to open from the outside.

How many nails should be used to install a metal edge bead in a drywall job?
Every 6″ on both sides of the corner.

A material CANNOT be classified as Type-A soil if it is fissured, previously disturbed, or:

A. Subject to vibration from heavy traffic or pile driving
B. Contains a large proportion of clay material
C. Contains caliche or hardpan
D. Has a high compressive strength
Type A soil can not be fissured, previously disturbed or subject to vibration from heavy traffic or pile driving.

Beam-type platforms for suspended scaffolds must have stringers of lumber at least _ set on edge.
2″ x 6″

You want to install a hardwood floor over a concrete slab that already has a moisture barrier beneath the slab. What should you do?
Install another moisture barrier over the slab before applying the wood flooring.

What type of felt underlayment should you use for metal tiles?
30 pound or two plies of 15 pound.

Concrete block is specified for a wall 50′ long and 6′ high. Approximately how many concrete blocks 8″W x 8″H x 16″L
are required for the wall?
350

Height x Length wall divided by Height x Length of block.

In cold climates, you cover freshly poured concrete to prevent:
Freezing

How many days should you wait between the scratch coat and the brown coat when plastering?
You should wait 2 days between the SCRATCH coat and the BROWN coat when plastering.

What maximum slope is specified by the UBS for a required handicap ramp?
The maximum slope allowed by UBS for a handicap ramp is 1:12 or 8.3%

Mortar joint refers to:
A vertical or horizontal joint between masonry walls.

The maximum weather exposure for 18″ wood shingles is:
The maximum weather exposure for 18″ wood shingles is 4″-6″.

A 6×6: #10, or 6×6: 10/10, wire mesh is used on a:
A slab on grade

How is expansive soil treated?
Expansive soil can be treated by a moisture treatment, sand treatment, or lime treatment.

An ammeter is used in with a(n) _ circuit:

A. series, energized
B. series, de-energized
C. parallel, energized
D. paralle, de-energized
An ammeter is used in series with an energized circut.

What is the minimum girder for a 12′ span under a deck?
The minimum girder for a 12′ span under a deck is a 4″ x 8″.

Given that a sloped roof has an area of 1,160 sq ft, how many rolls of 15# felt are needed to cover the roof with one layer?
3 Rolls of 15# felt.

A roll of 15# felt is roughly 430 sqft.

How should you determine the perimeter dimension from blueprints?
To determine the perimeter dimension from blue prints you should add first in one direction and then in the other direction.

If you run into roots while digging a footing what should you do?
Clear roots 12″ down and away from footings.

Before applying latex paint to the surface of an oil paint on wood trim, which procedure is appropriate?
Wash the surface with TSP

Who provides the required MSDS sheets for a job site?
The vendor provides the MSDS for materials of a job site.

What is the tolerance on effective depth when placing rebar in a slab 8″ or less thick?
On a slab LESS than 8″ thick, the tolerance on effective depth is + or – 3/8″.

What is the best method for installing ceramic tile?

A. On particleboard with thinnest adhesive
B. On particleboard with construction adhesive
C. On cement board with thinnest adhesive
D. On cement board with construction adhesive
On cement board with thinnest adhesive.

Which type of header should be used for an exterior door with a width of 3′ and a height of 6′-8″?
2″ x 6″ two each.

What is the minimum height of a toilet seat from the floor?
15″ is the minimum height of a toilet seat from the floor.

Interior carpet should be installed with:
Interior carpet should be installed with tackless strips.

Before wallpaper is applied to new drywall, it should be:
New drywall should be sealed before applying wallpaper.

GFCIs are used in:
GFCIs should be used in series circuit, parallel circuits, and wet areas.

You must bring an entire house up to current codes when remodeling costs reach what percentage of the total value of the house?
You never need to bring the entire house up to code.

Who issues the permit for demolition of a building 3-stories or higher?
State authority would need to issue a permit for demolition of a building 3 stories or higher.

If a vent fan is NOT installed in the bathroom of a commercial building, the minimum window:
If a vent fan is NOT installed in a bathroom of a commercial building, the minimum window opening must be 3 sqft.

What is the advantage in using particleboard?
Particle board is less expensive than other options.

What is the minimum size landing for an automatic electric door designed for disabled access?
5′ x 5′ is the minimum size landing for an automatic electric door designed for disabled access.

When do you get a framing inspection?
Framing inspections should be scheduled after the rough electrical and plumbing inspections.

Can you directly nail hardwood flooring to a concrete slab?
You should never nail concrete directly to a concrete slab.

Bricks on a job site should be covered:
Bricks should be covered when you leave the job site at the end of each workday.

How many continuous watts of load are permitted in a 12 gauge branch circuit?
A 12 gauge branch circuit is permitted to carry a 2,000 watt continuous load.

Where are you most likely to find the rules for soldering copper pipe?
The UPC

What is the tolerance on effective depth when placing rebar in a slab more than 8″ thick?
On a slab MORE than 8″ thick, the tolerance on effective depth is + or – 1/2″.

Which of the following tools is used in concrete work?

A. Splay
B. Hickey
C. Darby
D. Outrigger
A darby would be used in concrete work.

Why would you use screws instead of nails for wood framing?
Screws are stronger than nails.

The best two choices of wood for a hardwood floor are:

A. Maple and Oak
B. Fir and Cherry
C. Oak and Cherry
D. Pine and Fir
Maple and oak are the best two choices for a hardwood floor.

Which of the following will not affect fire rating?

A. Drywall thickness
B. Space between furring
C. Type of Adhesive
D. Size of screws used
The size of screws used would not affect the fire rating.

When working in construction, the general rule if you have long hair is to tie it back or use a net or other means because the hair might:

A. Be caught in machinery
B. Impair your vision
C. Accidentally be ignited
D. All of the above
All of the above.

Which of the following ceiling types need to be seismic proof?

A. Drywall
B. Plaster
C. Plywood
D. None of the above
Drywall, plaster, and plywood ceilings do not need to be seismic proof.

What is the minimum width of a handicap access door?
A handicap access door must be at least 36″ in width.

What is the tolerance on longitudinal placement of rebar when the bar is bent at both ends?
The tolerance on longitudinal placement of rebar when it is bent at both ends is + or – 1/2″.

You can use waterproofing paint on the outside of a wall to?
Waterproof paint can be used on the outside of a wall to stop water seepage.

While digging, you uncover a gray colored plastic pipe. It is most likely:

A. Water pipe
B. Sewer pipe
C. Electrical conduit
D. Any of the above
It could be any of the above.

What normally is the minimum penetration of a drywall screw into a wood stud?
5/8″ is normally the minimum penetration of a drywall screw into a wood stud.

A stove unit without insulation must be how many inches away from combustible materials?
An uninsulated stove unit must be at least 6″ away from combustible materials.

When nailing a stud to the sole plate use:
A stud should be attached to the sole plate using either 2 16d end nails or 4 8d toe nails.

When used as a joist, which horizontal beam is stronger?

A. 2″ x 12″
B. 4″ x 6″
C. 2 side by side 2″ x 6″s
D. They are all equivalent
A 2″ x 12″ would be the strongest horizontal beam.

What is the tolerance on longitudinal placement of rebar in a slab?
The tolerance on longitudinal placement of rebar in a slab is + or – 2″.

Which material is commonly used for parquet flooring?

A. Wood blocks
B. Slate
C. Wood planks
D. Brick
Wood blocks are used in parquet flooring.

When screws are used instead of nails, the required spacing between screws is usually:
Screws usually allow for larger spacing between them than nails because they are stronger.

In a commercial or publicly funded building, which is required when a handicap sink is open underneath?

A. Surface no higher than 34″
B. Knee clearance of at least 30″
C. No sharp edges underneath
D. All of the above
All of the above.

For a publicly funder or commercial building a handicap sink is required to have a surface no higher than 34″, knee clearance of at least 30″, and no sharp edges.

Which of the following is a non-flammable adhesive?

A. Release-type adhesive
B. Alcohol-type adhesive
C. Contact-type adhesive
D. Padding cement
Release-type adhesive is non-flammable.

A stairway’s maximum total riser and tread dimension would be:

A. 1 riser + 2 treads = 22″
B. 2 risers + 1 tread = 25″
C. 2 treads + 1 riser = 25″
D. Dependent on customer’s request
2 risers + 1 tread = 25″

A curb and threshold are not necessary in a shower:

A. Where children use it
B. For drain water
C. When designed for wheel chair use
D. Curbs and thresholds are always required
A curb and threshold is not required when designed for wheel chair use.

If the elevation of point A is 92.6′, and the transit reading at point A is 3.4′, then the elevation of the transit is:
The elevation of the transit is 96′.

Which of the following need NOT be grounded?

A. Receptacle
B. Junction box
C. Light fixture
D. Thermostat
A thermostat is low voltage and would not need to be grounded.

Which formula would you use to determine the quantity of drywall needed for a wall of a room?

A. Ceiling height + wall length
B. Ceiling height – wall length
C. Ceiling height x wall length
D. Ceiling height ÷ wall length
Ceiling height x wall length.

When would you use a stepped foundation?
A stepped foundation would be used on a hillside or slope.

Of the following, which method is best for attaching residential floor tile to particle-board sub flooring?

A. 1/4″ staples
B. Powder-actuated nailer
C. 12d nails
D. Adhesive
Adhesive would be the best method for attaching particle-board sub flooring to resident floor tile.

Handicap grab bars should be installed with:

A. Brackets and nails
B. Brackets and super glue
C. Brackets and screws
D. Brackets and anchor bolts
Handicap grab bars should be installed with brackets and screws.

Of the following which is the most dangerous effect of air bubbles in mortar?

A. Interrupts consistency of mortar
B. Weakens mortar strength
C. Changes texture
D. Changes the chemical composition
Air bubbles in mortar will weaken the strength.

What is required to be installed between the cold water supply and a water heater?
A shut off valve is required to be installed between the cold water supply and the hot water heater.

The total of 1′ 10-1/2″ and 8-3/4″ is:
2′ 7 1/4″

The maximum allowable distance between a wall and a suspended masons scaffold is?
6″ is the maximum allowable distance between a wall and a suspended masons scaffold.

When would a basement be included in the total allowable area calculation for a building?
The basement of a building will sometimes be included in the total allowable area calculation.

What should you do after discovering asbestos on a job?
Contact the Chief of DOSH

The maximum allowable distance between a wall and heavy trades wooden pole scaffolding is:
14″ is the maximum allowable distance between a wall and heavy wooden pole scaffolding.

When must the contractor provide the warranty for a water heater to the property owner?
The contractor must provide the warranty for a water heater to the property owner on completion of installation at the job site.

What type of solder is used to join a copper water pipe?
Lead free solder is used to join copper water pipes.

Who must approve all plumbing fixtures before they are used?
A local building official must approve all plumbing fixtures before they are used.

When a ready-mix concrete truck arrives at the job site, how do you verify that the quantity and ratio of the concrete are correct?
Ask the concrete contractor.

An owner typically holds 10% retention from progress payments because?
As protection against mechanics liens.

The most important consideration in preparing a building site is?
Drainage is the most important consideration in preparing a building site.

What is the minimum size lumber to use in constructing horse scaffolding 5 ft in height?
A horse scaffolding legs must be made of 2″ x 4″ lumber and a ledger made of 2″ x 6″ lumber.

How long should tile set on an organic adhesive bed in order to cure?
Tile should set on an organic adhesive bed for 24 hours to cure.

What is the maximum height in feet that you can build a retaining wall without consulting a structural engineer?
3′ is the highest you can build a retaining wall without consulting a structural engineer.

What is the maximum height of a threshold for a door designed for disabled access?
1/2″ is the maximum height of a threshold for a door designed for disabled access.

Of the following, concrete would be poured against:

A. Any wood siding
B. Cedar or redwood siding only
C. metal flashing
D. Metal form material
Metal form material

The function of a Waler is?
A Waler is a horizontal member used to align and brace concrete forms or piles.

If the width of a door that swings TOWARDS a landing on a ramp is 36″, what minimum length landing is required?
A 78″ landing is required for a 36″ door that swings TOWARDS a landing.

What are “as built” plants?
As built plans are plans showing all changes and repairs.

Which is the proper order of construction for the following building trades?

A. framing, plumbing, electrical, insulation
B. Plumbing, electrical, insulation, framing
C. Electrical, insulation, framing, plumbing
D. Insulation, framing, plumbing, electrical
Framing, plumbing, electrical, insulation.

According to the UBC, what is the proper height of a handrail for a stairway?
A handrail for a stairway must be at least 34″ high and no more than 38″.

Dividing volts by amps gives:
Dividing volts by amps gives you ohms.

Why would you install a vapor barrier under a concrete slab?
A vapor barrier is installed under a concrete slab to control the rise of water vapor.

When must the stamped grade mark be visible on lumber?
A stamped grade mark must be visible on all framing members.

For a custom cut roof structure, how much greater than the cut end of a rafter does the ridge width need to be?
The ridge does not need to be thicker than the end cut of a rafter.

What is the correct space (gap) between a finished floor and bottom of an interior door with no threshold.
1/2″ is the correct gap between finished floor and the bottom of an interior door with no threshold.

What is the tolerance on longitudinal placement of rebar when the bar is bent at one end?
The tolerance on longitudinal placement of rebar when the bar is bent on one end is + or – 0″ on the straight end, and 1/2″ on the bent end.

Which of the following is a measure of power load?

A. Voltage
B. Amperage
C. Watts
D. Ohms
Watts is the measure of power load.

Of the following, which would you use to adhere roll roofing to a residential roof?

A. Lap Cement
B. Caulking
C. Rubber Cement
D. Silicone
Lap cement would be used to adhere roll roofing to a residential roof.

How closely space must supports be for Romex in a roof cavity?
Romex must be supported every 4′ in a roof cavity.

What tool is best for cutting nails during house demolition?

A. Circular saw
B. Rip saw
C. Saber saw
D. Hacksaw
A saber saw would be the best tool listed.

The term “bushing” refers to:

A. Plumbing fitting
B. Electrical cap
C. Nail
D. Insulation
A bushing is a plumbing fitting.

Which of the following is a flammable adhesive?

A. Cushion-back seaming cement
B. Thin-spread adhesive
C. Latex-type adhesive
D. Alcohol-type adhesive
Alcohol-type adhesive is flammable.

The term “furring” refers to:

A. A plumbing fitting
B. A grounding electrode system
C. Wood or metal strips fastened to a structural surface to provide a base for fastening finished material
D. Parquet flooring pattern
Wood or metal strips fastened to a structural surface to provide a base for fastening finished material.

A “Tee-Wye” is a:

A. Plumbing fitting
B. Electrical wire
C. Type of saw
D. Type of wood
A tee-wye is a plumbing fitting.

Of the following, which is the largest nail?

A. 10 duplex
B. 12 d
C. 14 d
D. 16 d
16d is the largest nail

In carpentry work, which of the following should be done first?

A. Counter top
B. Cabinet
C. Vinyl
D. Base molding
In carpentry, the cabinets should be installed first.

When carrying hot tar, a worker on a roof may carry a maximum of:
A worker on a roof may carry a maximum of two 3/4 full buckets.

Which roofing material would be used on a 2:10 sloped roof?
Roll roofing would be used on a 2:10 sloped roof.

Where is a 4-prong outlet plug used?

A. Within 6 feet of a sink
B. Outside of a building
C. At the service to a house trailer or RV vehicle
D. By a pool
A 4-prong plug would be used at service to house trailer or RV vehicle.

Which type of construction requires a specialty contractor’s license?

A. Electrical
B. Plumbing
C. HVAC
D. All of the above.
All of the above.

The safety regulations concerning scaffolds are published in the:
Safety regulations are published in the Cal/OSHA.

Approximately, how many 4″ x 4″ ceramic tiles would you need to tile a 30″ x 60″ shower pan and three walls 5′ high? Use 1/4″ grout lines, assume no curb, and allow 15% for waste.

A. 439
B. 574
C. 720
D. 800
574

If the width of a door that swings AWAY from a landing on a ramp is 36″, what minimum length landing is required?
A 60″ landing is required for a 36″ door that swings AWAY from a landing.

Soldering work can be dangerous because of:
Noxious gases

For a building to be square, you need?
Opposite walls need to be parallel and diagonals need to measure equally.

What is the nailing pattern for installing shear wall paneling if it is not specified in the plans?
6″ on the edges and 12″ through the field.

Paint-grade wood cabinets require?
Sanding, priming, and finishing.

What is the minimum distance from the side of a toilet to the wall, in a bathroom stall that meets side-transfer accessibility requirements?
32″ is the minimum distance from the side of a toilet to the wall in a handicap bathroom stall.

What color is water-resistant gypsum wallboard?
Green or purple.

What does watts divided by volts equal?
Watts divided by volts will give you amps.

What type of shoes should you wear on a roof with a 4:12 slope?
Rubber-soled shoes should be warn on a slope of 4:12.

According to Energy Efficiency Standards, general lighting in kitchens must have an efficacy of at least how many lumens per watt?
Lighting in a kitchen must have at least 40 lumbers per watt.

What type of hammer is best to use for drywall installation?
Convex textured and round.

When hardwood flooring is shipped to the site, you should?
Put it in the room where it is to be installed and let it sit for a few days.

What would you use around a pipe that penetrates the roof?
Plastic cement.

Which of the following is correct concerning the notching and boring of joists?

A. Notch at end 1/4 of joist depth max; notch at top or bottom 1/6 depth max; bore at least 2″ from top or bottom; bore
B. Notch at end 1/2 of joist depth max; notch at top or bottom 1/4 depth max; bore at least 3″ from top or bottom; bore diameter is 1/4 depth max.
C. Notch at end 1/3 of joist depth max; notch at top or bottom 1/4 depth max; bore at least 4″ from top or bottom; bore diameter is 1/4 depth max.
D. None of the above
You may notch a joist on the ends 1/4″ of joist depth max, not the top or bottom 1/6th the depth max, and bore at least 2″ from the top or bottom with a bare diameter a maximum 1/3 of the joist.

An excavation project requires a contractor to dig a trench near a utility line. What is the proper procedure?
Contact the utility company before digging.

What is the proper term for a floor that extends beyond the lower portion of the house?
A cantilever is the proper term for a floor that extends beyond the lower portion of the house.

Which of the following is a consideration for handicap access?

A. Hinge type
B. Wall height
C. Ceiling height
D. Switch height
Switch height would be be considered.

Title 24 is applicable to:
California only.

What is the minimum distance from the centerline of a toilet to a wall?
15″ is the minimum from the centerline of a toilet to a wall.

Which type of material would you use for backfill up to a foundation?
Gravel would be used to backfill a foundation.

For cantilevered beams, what is generally the maximum ratio of the supported to the unsupported length?
The maximum ration of supported vs non supported cantilevered beams is 2:1.

Which of the following is a recommended method of installing a hardwood floor over a concrete slab?

A. Float the floor
B. Apply glue
C. Use concrete nails
D. Use staples
Float the floor before installing concrete.

When applying asphalt shingles, how far into the sheathing should you drive nails?
3/4″

When notching and boring studs in NON-BEARING walls, you must not cut more than?
60% when boring, and 40% while notching.

How soon should you pour concrete after you have mixed it without additives?
Non additive concrete should be poured within 1/2 of mixing.

Where do you nail metal valley flashing?
Metal valley flashing should be nailed 1″ from the outer edge.

What is the maximum grade of a sidewalk?
5% is the maximum grade of a sidewalk.

The best standard fire rating for a roof assembly is?
Class A

What should be done if Native American burial artifacts or remains are discovered while digging?
Stop work immediately at the site and any nearby area reasonably suspected to have artifacts and remains and contact the County Coroner.

What is a raked joint?
A mortar joint that is compacted to a specific depth while the mortar is still green.

What minimum clearance is required between a worker and high voltage electrical lines?
6″ is the minimum clearance between a worker and high voltage electrical lines.

What must be done if work has stopped for a year after the date the building permit was issued?
You must obtain a new permit and pay the fee again.

When installing Fiberglass insulation between floor joists, the insulation is attached with:
When installing fiberglass insulation between floor joists, the insulation is attached with nails and wire.

Furring channel refers to?
Wood or metal strips that provide a base for fastening finish material.

To get a smooth stucco finish you would use a?
Trowel

A collar beam is a?
A horizontal member that ties opposite rafters together.

How should you adjust the pitch of a solar collector mounted on a roof?
Use cripples.

A Freon recovery system is NOT required when:

A. Recharging a small appliance
B. Replacing a burnt out rotor in a hermetic unit
C. Overhauling a rooftop A/C unit
D. Scrapping an old refrigeration unit
A freon recovery system would not be required when recharging a small appliance.

For which type of buildings do you need a certificate of occupancy?
All buildings need a certificate of occupancy.

What is the longitudinal tolerance for reinforcing steel ends and bends?

  • or – 2″ if reinforcing steel ends and bends.

What is the formula for the circumference of a circle?
PI 3.14 X DIAMETER

When splicing rebar, the minimum lap should be?
When splicing rebar the minimum lap should be 30 diameters.

Which roofing material would you install on a flat roof?
Hot mopped tar would be installed on a flat roof.

To test soil before installing a septic tank, who would you contact?
A soil geologist.

How many inches should reinforcing steel be from the edge of a concrete girder?
Reinforcing steel in a concrete girder should be 1 1/2″ from the edge.

What type of drain do you install when you install tile in a shower with a moisture membrane?
A drain with weep holes below the tile.

What size aluminum conductor would carry the same electrical current as a 14-gauge copper conductor?
12-guage aluminum.

Aluminum needs to be one size bigger than required copper.

Which of the following door mechanisms meets minimum handicap requirements?

A. Minimum 3″ lever
B. Electrically operated
C. Single-action lever
D. Not lockable
A single action lever would meet MINIMUM handicap requirements.

In a built-up wood post constructed of three separate piece of lumber, excessive loading may cause the pieces to buckle away from each other. How can this be prevented?
The pieces should be securely nailed together.

How long after a job is completed can a contractor be held liable for defects?
10 years

Which of the following materials must be installed above the roof?

A. Ufer
B. Ground rod
C. Water pipe
D. Weatherhead
A weatherhead must be installed above the roof.

Of the following, the best tool for door jamb installations is:

A. T-square
B. Two-foot long level
C. Six-foot long level
D. Plumb bob
A two foot long level would be best.

What is the formula for the area of a circle?
Pi R²

What is the best instrument for measuring elevations?
A transit.

How far below the surface of drywall should you drive the head of a nail?
A drywall screw should be driven 1/32″ below the paper.

Which variety is considered a four-season grass?

A. Centipede grass
B. Tall fescue
C. Bluegrass
D. Bermuda grass
Tall fescue is a four season grass.

Which is NOT a type of beam?

A. H
B. I
C. J
D. Round
There is no such thing as a round beam.

How much should an asphalt shingle roof overhang the edge of the house?
An asphalt shingle roof should overhang the edge of the house 3/4 of an inch.

How far down must you clear roots and stumps before pouring a slab foundation?
12″ below grade and around the foundation.

What is the most important safety step wen using a welding torch?
Make sure there is no oil present.

Linings for shower receptors are typically?
Three layers of 15 pound asphalt saturated felt.

When installing roll roofing what is the minimum overlap between rolls?
The minimum overlap of roll roofing is 2″.

What should you do before cutting the bottom chord of a truss?
Connect to adjacent trusses with cross ties.

When notching and boring studs in BEARING walls, you must not cut more than?
40% when boring, and 25% when notching.

The first thing to do when installing a drop ceiling is?
Measure the height of the finished ceiling.

How should the length of a glulam be determined if over 16′?
An engineer must calculate the length.

Where would you NOT install greenboard?

A. Living room
B. Kitchen
C. Laundry Room
D. Bathroom
Living room.

What is a purlin?
A horizontal support that spans across adjacent rafters and may be above or below the principal rafters.

What is the maximum exposure of 24″ woof roofing shakes?
10″ is the maximum exposure of 24″ wood roofing shakes.

According to the UBC, the minimum clearance from a masonry fireplace to wood framing members is?
2″ is the minimum clearance from a masonry fireplace to wood framing members.

How many receptacles are on a dedicated circuit?
1

How do you fasten wood shake?
Nails.

When assessing the condition of a building site and drainage, what should be considered first?
The draining needed for the new structure.

Which of the following is not a steel post?

A. H Beam
B. I Beam
C. J Beam
D. Round post
A J beam is not a steel post.

What tests are needed before installing a septic tank?
Water table level, percolation test, and a soil type and strata.

When installing a 3-wire, single phase, 240 volt circuit that consists of white, red, and black wires, which would you connect to “hot?
The red and black wires would be connected.

You would affix a column or post to a floor in a building with?
A metal connector.

The safest way to handle asbestos is when it is what?
Asbestos is safest to handle when it is wet.

What is the minimum number of amps required to serve a 5,000 sq ft family residence where everything is run on electricity?
200 Amp panel.

If it looks like rain, what should you do to a masonry wall that was recently constructed?
Cover it with canvas.

How do you know if a type of glass is classified as tempered?
A tempered label is adhered to each piece.

Which type of device is used to determine if there is a load balance on an electrical panel?
An amp probe.

The color of regular gypsum wallboard is?
White

Of the following, which material should NOT be used in building a skylight?

A. Laminated glass
B. Annealed glass
C. Rigid plastic
D. Tempered glass
Annealed glass should not be used when building a skylight.

How would you determine which is the best vapor barrier for a particular type of wood flooring?
Consult the manufacturer’s specifications.

Which of the following procedures is used to level freshly poured concrete flatwork?

A. Darbying
B. Screeding
C. Floating
D. Troweling
Screening is used to level freshly poured concrete flatwork.

TY refers to:
A fitting used in a DWV system to merge a side branch with a main branch.

What type of glass must not be used in a window installed less than 18″ above the floor?
A plate glass window must not be used in a window installed less than 18″ above the floor.

In which direction do hip jack rafters run?
A hip jack rafter runs parallel to common rafters.

When can a basement be counted as a story for calculating living space floor area of a residence?
When the basement is finished.

Which of the following types of wood is most commonly used for interior framing?

A. Alder
B. Douglas fir
C. Pine
D. Redwood
Douglas fir is the most common wood used for interior framing.

What height should a tile shower drain be?
A tile shower drain should be flush with the floor.

Which thickness of sheetrock is often used to construct one-hour fire-rated walls?
5/8″ drywall is commonly used to construct one-hour fire-rated walls.

How should copper pipe be connected to galvanized steel pipe?
Using a dielectric coupling.

What is required when a scaffold is over 7’1/2′?
A railing is required on a scaffold over 7-1/2″

Where do you install a vent flashing on an asphalt shingle roof?
Between the shingles.

On a new roof, asphalt shingles should be applied over?
Underlayment

When would you wet concrete masonry blocks?
Never wet concrete masonry blocks.

Which of the following is most important when digging a trench 6′ deep that workers will enter?

A. Erect barricades
B. Post a sign indicating the depth of the trench
C. Bracing on trench walls
D. Fence around the deepest area of the trench
Bracing on the trench walls.

What is the recommended slope of a 4-ft sidewalk?
5%

Which of the following is an important and commonly used component of an exterior door in a residence?

A. Weatherstripping
B. Rigid insulation
C. Smoke seal
D. Silas kraft paper
Weatherstripping.

Where would you NOT need safety glazing?

A. Dual glazing
B. North-facing buildings
C. New buildings
D. When general contractor decides it is not necessary
On dual glazing you would not need safety glazing.

What is the minimum required compressive strength for a concrete slab on grade?
For a concrete slab on grade 2,000 psi is the minimum required compressive strength.

Which of the following meets the minimum requirement for a wood fire door?
The minimum requirement for a wood fire door is 1 3/4″ thick.

How should you treat a first-degree burn?
Flush with water and wrap loosely.

When do you use a raked joint?
When the plans call for a specific and even joint depth.

Which factor need stop be considered when determining the size of a water supply line?
The amount of fixtures served, the material used, and the water pressure.

When foil-backed gypsum panels are installed as exterior sheathing, the foil side should be facing?
Foil-backed panels are not used for exterior sheathing.

After drywall has been screwed into place, when do you check the placement of the screws?
Before taping.

Which is an important rule to follow when soldering?

A. Apply flux to the tubing, not the fitting
B. Heat the joint not the solder
C. Make sure the joint is clean and fits well
D. All of the above
All of the above.

Apply flux to the tubing not to the fitting, heat the joint not the solder and make sure the joint is clean, abrasion free and fits well.

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