Coastal and Floodplain Construction Inspector's Practice Exam

What size fasteners are required for the wall to foundation bottom track for a house in the 110 mph wind zone exposure C?

1. #6

2. #8

3. #10

4. #12

The correct answer is: #8

For a house located in a 110 mph wind zone with exposure C, the selection of fastener size for the wall to foundation bottom track is crucial for ensuring structural integrity and the ability to withstand wind loads. Using #8 fasteners complies with the requirements of building codes and standards that cater to structural applications in areas with significant wind exposure. These specifications take into account factors such as the material properties, the structural load they need to support, and the shear and withdrawal capacities needed for securing the track to the foundation. The fastener must have sufficient strength and adequate length to penetrate through the thickness of the track and into the foundation, thereby creating a robust connection that can resist lateral forces imposed by high winds. The #8 fastener size appropriately balances strength and ease of installation, making it a standard choice in such scenarios. In contrast, other fastener sizes, while they may have their own applications, do not align with the specific structural requirements regulated for a building located in such high wind zones. They may either be too weak or not standardized for the intended purpose, leading to potential risks in structural performance.