Structural Systems Inspection Flashcards

Under the IRC, wood sill plates must be anchored with anchor bolts at least 1/2 inch in diameter spaced no more than how far apart?

Answer: 6 feet

IRC R403.1.6 requires 1/2-inch anchor bolts at a maximum of 6 feet on center, with one within 12 inches of each plate end.

In a bearing wall, a stud may be notched to a maximum of what percentage of its width?

Answer: 25%

IRC R602.6 limits notches in bearing-wall studs to 25% of width, compared with 40% for non-bearing studs.

During a winter inspection, cracks are seen where interior partition walls meet the ceiling, and they close in summer. What is the most likely cause?

Answer: Truss uplift

Truss uplift happens when the top chords swell from attic moisture while the colder, drier bottom chords bow upward, so the gap changes with the seasons.

Rust stains and spalled concrete exposing reinforcing steel in a foundation wall indicate what?

Answer: Corroding rebar expanding and breaking the concrete

Rusting rebar expands and pushes off the concrete cover, which weakens the structural element.

Why must an inspector warn against drilling or cutting into a post-tensioned concrete slab?

Answer: Severed tendons under high tension can fail violently and weaken the slab

Post-tensioned tendons carry very high tension, so cutting one is dangerous and compromises the slab.

What is the preferred method for attaching a deck ledger board to a house rim joist?

Answer: Through-bolts or lag screws with proper flashing

Ledgers need bolted or lag-screwed connections plus flashing to prevent collapse and water intrusion, and nails alone are a common cause of deck failures.

Which condition with a wood I-joist is a serious structural defect?

Answer: A notch cut through the bottom flange

I-joist flanges carry the bending loads, and manufacturers prohibit cutting or notching them.