Contractor Exam Questions And

CA D76 Metal Stud Framing Contractor Exam Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationale2026 Q&A| Instant Download Pdf

• Which material is most commonly used for metal studs in commercial

framing?

• Wood
• Galvanized steel
• Aluminum

D. PVC

Rationale: Galvanized steel is used for its strength, durability, and

resistance to rust, making it ideal for metal stud framing.

• What is the typical spacing for interior metal studs in non-load-bearing

walls?

• 12 inches
• 16 inches
• 24 inches
• 36 inches

Rationale: Non-load-bearing interior metal studs are commonly

spaced at 24 inches on center for standard wall construction.

• When installing metal studs, what is used to secure them to the floor

and ceiling track?

• Nails
• Self-tapping screws
• Staples
• Adhesive 1 / 3

Rationale: Self-tapping screws penetrate metal easily, providing

secure fastening without pre-drilling.

• Which type of metal stud is commonly used for load-bearing walls?
• Light-gauge
• Heavy-gauge
• Aluminum
• PVC-coated

Rationale: Heavy-gauge steel studs have greater strength to support

loads in structural applications.

• What is the primary function of a track in metal stud framing?
• Decorative trim
• Moisture barrier
• Provide top and bottom support for studs
• Electrical conduit holder

Rationale: Tracks serve as channels at the top and bottom to hold the

studs in place.

• What is the minimum overlap for splicing two metal studs?
• 1 inch
• 2 inches
• 3 inches
• 6 inches

Rationale: A 3-inch overlap ensures adequate strength and alignment

at stud joints.

• When framing a curved wall, what type of stud is preferred?
• Heavy-gauge C stud
• Light-gauge flexible stud
• Track only
• Aluminum stud

Rationale: Light-gauge flexible studs can be bent to follow curved wall

designs without compromising integrity.

• What tool is primarily used to cut metal studs on-site?
• Circular saw with wood blade
• Hand saw
• Tin snips or metal cutting saw
• Jigsaw with wood blade

Rationale: Tin snips or a metal cutting saw cleanly cut steel studs

without damaging the material. 2 / 3

• In fire-rated metal stud walls, what material is often added between

studs?

• Plastic insulation
• Fiberglass only
• Mineral wool or fire-resistant insulation
• Wood fiberboard

Rationale: Mineral wool provides fire resistance and soundproofing

within metal stud cavities.

• What is the typical width of commercial metal studs?
• 1 inch
• 2 inches
• 3 5/8 inches
• 6 inches

Rationale: 3 5/8 inches is the standard width for interior partitions in

commercial construction.

• What determines the gauge of a metal stud?
• Thickness of the steel
• Length of the stud
• Number of screws used
• Width of the track

Rationale: The gauge indicates steel thickness; lower numbers mean

thicker, stronger studs.

• Which fastener is typically used to attach drywall to metal studs?
• Nails
• Bolts
• Drywall screws
• Staples

Rationale: Drywall screws have fine threads designed to grip metal

studs securely.

• What is the primary advantage of metal stud framing over wood?
• Lower cost
• Resistance to termites and rot
• Easier to saw
• Better insulation

Rationale: Metal studs do not warp, rot, or attract termites, making

them more durable in many conditions.

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