General Contractor Practice Exam

What is the correct method for installing 8 inch wide boards for sheathing?

1. 4-10d nails

2. 2-8d nails

3. 3-8d nails

4. 5-16d nails

The correct answer is: 3-8d nails

The correct method for installing 8-inch wide boards for sheathing involves the use of 3-8d nails. This choice is based on standard framing practices, which dictate that nails should be spaced properly to ensure a strong bond between the sheathing and the structural framing beneath it. When installing sheathing, the nails' length and gauge are crucial for providing adequate holding power while also allowing for construction flexibilities such as expansion and contraction. Using 3-8d nails means that the nails are sufficiently long to penetrate both the sheathing and into the framing members (typically the studs or rafters) with enough length to resist withdrawal forces, ensuring the integrity of the structure. It's important to also consider that the spacing of the nails plays a role in the effectiveness of the sheathing. Placing the nails appropriately along the edges and face of the boards promotes stability and helps prevent the boards from warping or separating over time. In contrast, the other options listed offer different nail configurations that are either not sufficient in quantity or length for securely fastening 8-inch sheathing. Therefore, 3-8d nails are the most suitable and effective choice for this particular application.