When installing clay tile roofing in California seismic zones, what additional fastening requirement applies beyond standard installation?
Correct Answer
B) Every tile in the perimeter three courses must be fastened
California Building Code Section 1507.3.9 requires that in areas subject to seismic activity, clay and concrete tiles in the perimeter three courses (edges and ridges) must be mechanically fastened to resist earthquake forces. This prevents tiles from sliding off during seismic events.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
CBC Section 1507.3.9 requires that in seismically active areas, every tile in the perimeter three courses (field edges and ridge) must be mechanically fastened. This targeted approach focuses on tiles most likely to be dislodged by lateral forces during an earthquake, without requiring the cost of fastening every single tile.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Only ridge tiles require additional fastening
Requiring only ridge tiles to be fastened is insufficient under CBC. While ridge tiles are critical, the seismic provision extends the fastening requirement to all tiles in the entire perimeter three courses, not just the ridge.
Option C: Every tile must be nailed
Nailing every tile is more stringent than what CBC requires and is not the code standard. This would dramatically increase installation cost and time. The code focuses fastening requirements on the most vulnerable perimeter zones.
Option D: Adhesive strips are sufficient for all tiles
Adhesive strips alone are not an approved substitute for mechanical fastening in seismic zones. CBC requires positive mechanical attachment (nails or screws) for tiles in seismic conditions; adhesive alone does not provide the necessary load resistance.
Memory Technique
Picture the border of a tile roof as a picture frame — the 'frame' (perimeter three courses) must be nailed down securely so the earthquake can't knock tiles off the edges. The interior is less vulnerable and doesn't need the same treatment.
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