Coastal and Floodplain Construction Inspector's Practice Exam

What is the minimum pile spacing allowed as measured from center to center?

1. 6 feet

2. 8 feet

3. 10 feet

4. 12 feet

The correct answer is: 8 feet

The minimum pile spacing requirements are based on structural integrity and the performance of the piles under load conditions. The goal is to provide adequate support while minimizing the risk of soil consolidation or excessive lateral movement. An 8-foot spacing allows for optimal load distribution and soil interaction, ensuring that individual piles can function effectively without compromising the structural stability. This spacing also provides enough room for construction equipment to operate around the piles, facilitating the installation process and minimizing damage to adjacent piles during construction. In contrast, tighter spacing could result in overlapping load effects and potential structural failure under certain conditions by negatively impacting the soil’s ability to support the piles. Similarly, larger spacing might not provide the necessary support in high-load scenarios, potentially leading to insufficient foundation strength. Thus, establishing an 8-foot center-to-center pile spacing conforms to engineering standards and best practices for coastal and floodplain construction.