General Contractor Practice Exam

What type of reinforcing bar support can be used for foundation mats that are 3 feet above the ground?

1. Horizontal bar supports

2. Stirrups

3. Standee using #5 bar

4. Reinforcing mesh

The correct answer is: Standee using #5 bar

The most appropriate type of reinforcing bar support for foundation mats that are 3 feet above the ground is the use of standees, particularly employing #5 bars. Standee supports are vertical bars that provide necessary elevation for the horizontal reinforcement in the foundation mats. This is crucial in ensuring that the reinforcing bars are placed at the required height within the concrete, promoting the effective distribution of loads and enhancing structural integrity. Using #5 bars for standees strikes a balance between providing adequate support and being manageable in terms of weight and complexity. The standee's height can easily be adjusted to meet the requirements of being 3 feet above the ground, ensuring that the reinforcing steel is well-embedded in the concrete at the desired depth. Other options, such as horizontal bar supports, stirrups, and reinforcing mesh, serve different purposes. Horizontal bar supports do not provide the vertical elevation needed for a mat that is raised above the ground. Stirrups are typically used to maintain the position of vertical bars within a beam or column rather than to elevate horizontal reinforcements in foundation mats. Reinforcing mesh is also not suited for providing the necessary height, as it is typically used for flat slabs or surfaces without the need for elevated support.