NCIDQ IDFX Practice Exam

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What is the spacing of studs in residential construction?

12" O.C.
16" O.C.
20" O.C.
24" O.C.

The correct answer is: 16" O.C.

In residential construction, studs are typically spaced 16 inches on center (O.C.) to provide adequate support for walls, ceilings, and roofs while ensuring structural stability. This standard spacing allows for the efficient installation of standard-sized panels, such as drywall or sheathing, which are generally 4 feet wide. When studs are spaced 16 inches apart, two panels can be aligned per row without needing to cut them. Additionally, this spacing helps accommodate the installation of insulation, plumbing, and electrical work within the walls more effectively, providing a conducive environment for efficient building practices. Using 16 inches O.C. spacing balances structural integrity with materials cost and labor efficiency, making it the most common practice in residential construction. While other spacings, such as 12, 20, or 24 inches O.C., can be used in specific scenarios or for different types of construction, they are not as universally applicable or standardized as the 16-inch spacing.