Alabama Contractors License Practice Exam

Must steel gable end walls less than 10 feet high be anchored to the foundation or floor?

1. True

2. False

The correct answer is: True

In construction, particularly involving steel structures, it is essential to ensure the stability and integrity of walls, regardless of their height. Steel gable end walls, even when they are less than 10 feet high, must be anchored to the foundation or floor to prevent tipping and to ensure they can withstand lateral forces such as wind. Anchoring these walls helps distribute loads evenly and secures the structure against potential physical forces that could compromise its stability. This is a critical consideration in building codes and regulations, which dictate that any wall, irrespective of its height, should have anchorage in order to maintain safety and durability in structural design. While some may assume that lower walls might not require anchoring, the reality is that all walls, including gable end walls, require appropriate anchoring for structural integrity. The practice of securing all walls, regardless of height, is a standard in the construction industry to mitigate risks and enhance the lifespan of the structure.