Construction Supervisor License Practice Exam

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What is the typical spacing requirement for floor joists in residential buildings?

12 inches on center
16 inches on center
24 inches on center
30 inches on center

The correct answer is: 16 inches on center

The typical spacing requirement for floor joists in residential buildings is 16 inches on center. This standard spacing is widely adopted in residential construction because it strikes a balance between structural integrity and material efficiency. Spacing joists 16 inches apart allows for adequate support for the floor system while minimizing the amount of lumber and labor needed. This spacing also typically aligns with common sheet material sizes, such as plywood and oriented strand board (OSB), which are often 48 inches wide. As a result, using 16-inch on-center spacing optimizes the layout and reduces waste, as these panels can be installed with minimal cutting. While there are circumstances where joists may be spaced at 12 inches or 24 inches on center, these configurations are generally used based on specific load requirements or for particular materials (for example, heavier loads may necessitate closer spacing). The 30-inch on-center configuration is not commonly practiced in residential construction and would typically only be seen in special scenarios due to the insufficient structural support it provides.