Construction Supervisor License Practice Exam

What construction element provides protection for the top of an outside wall or a parapet wall?

1. A. a head joint

2. B. a top cap

3. C. a coping stone

4. D. a cover stone

The correct answer is: C. a coping stone

The correct choice is centered around the role of a coping stone in construction, specifically in providing protection for the top of an outside wall or a parapet wall. Coping stones are typically installed on top of walls to shield them from weather elements like rain, snow, and ice, which can cause deterioration over time. By capsulating the wall, coping helps prevent water from penetrating the wall’s structure. This is crucial in maintaining the integrity and longevity of the masonry elements beneath it. Coping stones are often designed with a slight overhang to allow water to run off, reducing the risk of pooling at the top of the wall. This strategic application helps protect the wall from moisture-related issues such as freeze-thaw cycles, which can lead to cracking and spalling of the masonry. While the other terms may refer to different aspects of masonry or construction, they do not specifically denote the protective function of elements designed to cap the top of walls. For instance, top caps generally refer to a term used for various types of finishes at the top of walls, but their overall protective capability is less specific than that of coping stones. Thus, coping stones are recognized as the appropriate answer for providing essential protection to the tops of outside or parapet walls.