Framing & StructuralQuestion 444 of 700
Exterior wood siding, sheathing, or trim that is NOT preservative-treated or naturally durable must generally be kept at least how far above exposed earth?
a.6 inches above finished grade
b.1 inch above finished grade
c.Flush with grade is acceptable
d.12 inches above finished grade
Explanation
To limit decay, untreated wood must be kept a minimum of 6 inches above exposed earth. One inch and flush contact invite moisture wicking and rot, while 12 inches is a larger clearance than the code minimum and is not the required figure.
Law Reference: 2025 CA Residential Code §R317.1Practice all 700 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- At the ends of a wood-framed shear wall, a hold-down device anchored to the foundation is installed primarily to resist which force?
- For a conventional sill-plate anchor bolt set in a concrete foundation, what is the MINIMUM embedment depth of the bolt into the concrete?
- For a wood structural panel shear wall to develop its rated capacity, how must the panel edges be treated where sheets meet?
- On a wood-framed wall receiving exterior cement plaster (stucco), a weep screed must be installed at the base of the wall at a MINIMUM of how high above adjacent earth and above paved surfaces?
- When metal lath is applied to a wood-framed wall to receive three-coat cement plaster, the lath fasteners should penetrate the framing members by at least approximately how much?
- Where an exterior deck beam bears on a supporting post, what is the BEST practice for the beam-to-post connection?
Last reviewed: · editorial process
PrepPass Editorial Team · Verified against California CSLB General Building (B) Trade Examination · How we review