Calculate the number of 16d common nails needed to attach a 2x10 rim joist to the end of floor joists in a 28-foot wall, with joists spaced 16 inches on center. Use 3 nails per connection.
Correct Answer
A) 66 nails
Number of joists in 28 feet at 16" O.C. = (28 × 12) ÷ 16 + 1 = 22 joists. Each connection uses 3 nails: 22 × 3 = 66 nails total.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Step 1: Convert wall length to inches: 28 ft × 12 = 336 inches. Step 2: Count the number of joist spaces at 16" o.c.: 336 ÷ 16 = 21 spaces. Step 3: Number of joists = spaces + 1 (for the end joist) = 21 + 1 = 22 joists. Step 4: Nails = 22 joists × 3 nails each = 66 nails total. This is the standard 'divide + 1' formula used for any layout-count calculation.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option B: 63 nails
Option B ('63 nails') results from calculating 21 joists (forgetting to add 1 for the end joist) × 3 nails = 63. This is the classic off-by-one error. When counting members in a run, the number of members is always one more than the number of spaces.
Option C: 72 nails
Option C ('72 nails') likely results from an incorrect joist count of 24 (perhaps by rounding up incorrectly or using 336 ÷ 14 instead of ÷ 16). Double-check that the spacing divisor is correct (16 inches, not 14).
Option D: 54 nails
Option D ('54 nails') results from 18 joists × 3 nails, which reflects either an incorrect spacing calculation or forgetting to convert feet to inches before dividing (28 ÷ 16 ≈ 1.75, then approximate to 18).
Memory Technique
Remember: 'Spaces + 1 = Members.' If you have 21 fence posts spaced along a run, you need 22 posts (not 21) — one at each end plus one between every gap. Apply this same logic to joists, studs, and rafters on every exam calculation.
More Michigan Questions
A residential foundation wall in Michigan is 8 feet high with 2 feet above grade. The backfill exerts lateral pressure of 30 psf per foot of depth. What is the maximum lateral pressure at the bottom of the foundation wall?
A builder discovers that the electrical service entrance was installed without proper permits. According to Michigan law, what is the most appropriate next step?
What is the maximum allowable span for a 2x8 floor joist (Grade 2 Douglas Fir) at 16" O.C. with 40 psf live load and 10 psf dead load according to Michigan Building Code span tables?
According to Michigan Building Code, what is the maximum height of a wood-framed bearing wall using 2x4 studs with standard construction?
A homeowner requests to convert a bedroom into a bathroom on the second floor. What is the primary Michigan code concern the builder must address?
According to Michigan plumbing regulations, what is the minimum pipe size required for a water service line serving a single-family residence?
A contractor is building a basement foundation wall that is 8 feet high and will retain 6 feet of soil. What is the minimum wall thickness required by the Michigan Building Code for poured concrete?
A homeowner wants to install a gas fireplace in their living room. The contractor notices the existing gas line is 1/2 inch black iron pipe. For a 40,000 BTU fireplace with a 25-foot run, is this pipe size adequate according to Michigan gas code?
During a framing inspection, the building official notes that the contractor used 2x4 studs at 24 inches on center for an exterior wall. According to Michigan Building Code, what is the maximum wall height allowed for this configuration?
A contractor is installing a beam to support floor joists. The beam must carry a total load of 8,000 pounds over a 12-foot span. If the allowable fiber stress for the lumber grade is 1,200 psi, what is the minimum required section modulus?
People Also Study
Business & Financial Management
120 questions · 70% to pass
Contract Administration
60 questions · 70% to pass
Project Management
60 questions · 70% to pass
Related Study Resources
Previous Question
A contractor discovers that the existing electrical service is only 100 amps, but the new addition requires 150 amp total service. According to Michigan electrical requirements, what action is required?
Next Question
During a building inspection, the inspector finds that floor joists are notched incorrectly. According to Michigan Building Code, what is the maximum depth a notch can be cut in the end third of a floor joist?