Exam Practice Questions And Correct

Utah B100 General Building Contractor Exam Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of a building permit?
• To ensure the project stays on budget
• To verify compliance with building codes
• To hire subcontractors
• To secure financing
• To verify compliance with building codes

Rationale: Building permits ensure that construction projects meet

local building codes and safety regulations.

• Which type of soil is most susceptible to foundation movement?
• Sand 1 / 4

• Clay
• Gravel
• Rock
• Clay

Rationale: Clay soils expand and contract with moisture content,

causing potential foundation movement.

3. The R-value of insulation measures:

• Heat conductivity
• Thermal resistance
• Fire resistance
• Moisture absorption
• Thermal resistance

Rationale: R-value indicates how well insulation resists heat flow;

higher R-values mean better insulation.

• What is the minimum headroom required for a residential staircase?
• 6 feet 6 inches
• 6 feet 8 inches
• 7 feet
• 7 feet 6 inches
• 7 feet

Rationale: Most building codes require at least 7 feet of vertical

headroom for stairways to ensure safe clearance. 2 / 4

• In concrete, which ingredient primarily controls strength?
• Water
• Cement
• Sand
• Gravel
• Cement

Rationale: Cement is the binding agent in concrete and largely

determines compressive strength.

• What is the standard slope for a residential roof to ensure proper

drainage?

• 1/4 inch per foot
• 1/2 inch per foot
• 3/4 inch per foot
• 1 inch per foot
• 1/2 inch per foot

Rationale: A minimum 1/2 inch per foot slope allows water to drain

effectively from residential roofs.

7. The purpose of a vapor barrier in walls is to:

• Increase structural strength
• Reduce heat loss
• Prevent moisture penetration
• Enhance fire resistance
• Prevent moisture penetration 3 / 4

Rationale: Vapor barriers prevent water vapor from entering walls,

reducing mold and structural damage.

• What is the most common type of foundation for a residential

building?

• Slab-on-grade
• Basement
• Crawl space
• Pier and beam
• Slab-on-grade

Rationale: Slab-on-grade foundations are simple, cost-effective, and

commonly used in residential construction.

• What is the purpose of flashing around windows and doors?
• To provide insulation
• To direct water away from the structure
• To support the frame
• To enhance appearance
• To direct water away from the structure

Rationale: Flashing prevents water intrusion, which can cause rot,

mold, and structural damage.

• Which type of wood is most resistant to decay for outdoor

construction?

• Pine
• Cedar
• / 4