Coastal and Floodplain Construction Inspector's Practice Exam

Asphalt shingles in high wind regions must meet certain evaluation ratings. What are the associated ratings?

1. UL 2390, Class B (80 mph)

2. UL 2390, Class D (90 mph), G (120 mph), H (150 mph)

3. UL 2390, Class A (70 mph)

4. UL 2390, Class C (60 mph), D (90 mph)

The correct answer is: UL 2390, Class D (90 mph), G (120 mph), H (150 mph)

Asphalt shingles used in high wind areas are evaluated based on the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) testing standards, specifically UL 2390. These ratings indicate the shingles’ performance under wind conditions. The ratings mentioned in the correct choice encompass various classifications, including Class D for winds up to 90 mph, Class G for winds up to 120 mph, and Class H for winds up to 150 mph. These classes are important for ensuring that roofing materials can withstand the specific wind speeds encountered in different geographic regions, thereby providing adequate protection for structures against potential wind damage. High wind regions require more robust materials due to the increased risk of wind uplift and other wind-related impacts, which is why multiple classifications are provided, giving builders and inspectors a clear guideline about what level of protection is necessary for various building sites. In contrast, the other options either reference incorrect classes or misalign the wind speed capabilities required for high wind zones, thus not conforming to the necessary standards for roofing material resilience in those conditions. This selection emphasizes the importance of adhering to established safety and performance metrics in construction, particularly in vulnerable coastal and floodplain environments.