Alabama Contractors License Practice Exam

Which statement is true regarding notching of studs in an exterior wall?

1. It is allowed without restriction

2. It can exceed 30 percent of the stud width

3. Notching must not exceed 25 percent of the stud width

4. Only top plate studs can be notched

The correct answer is: Notching must not exceed 25 percent of the stud width

Notching of studs in an exterior wall comes with specific guidelines to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the framing system. The correct statement reflects the established building codes, which state that notching must not exceed 25 percent of the stud width. This limit is in place to prevent compromising the strength of the stud, as excessive notching can weaken the stud and diminish its ability to support loads effectively. The 25 percent limitation is a widely accepted standard within the construction industry, ensuring that the studs retain enough strength to bear the loads they are designed to carry while still allowing for the necessary modifications for plumbing, electrical, or other systems that need to be routed through the wall. Selecting an option that suggests unrestricted notching or exceeding the 25 percent limit would not adhere to structural codes and could pose safety risks. Additionally, the idea that only top plate studs can be notched ignores the comprehensive guidelines applied to any verticle framing members in the wall assembly, not just those located at the top.