Alabama Contractors License Practice Exam

Exterior wood framing walls shall be a minimum of ____ grade wood.

1. Utility

2. 2

3. 3

4. 4

The correct answer is: 2

The correct choice indicates that exterior wood framing walls should be constructed using a minimum of grade 2 wood. This standard is significant because grade 2 wood provides a good balance of strength, durability, and resistance to defects compared to lower grades of wood. Using grade 2 wood ensures that the structural integrity of the framing is sufficient to support loads and withstand environmental stresses, which is crucial for the longevity and safety of the building. A lower grade, such as utility grade, may not meet the necessary structural requirements, while grades 3 and 4 are typically not suitable for use in load-bearing applications because they exhibit more defects and reduced strength. Therefore, specifying grade 2 wood aligns with building codes and best practices for constructing safe and enduring structures.