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When installing clay tile roofing in California seismic zones, what additional requirement must be met according to the CBC?

Correct Answer

A) Tiles must be mechanically fastened with corrosion-resistant fasteners

CBC Section 1511.3.3 requires clay and concrete tiles in seismic design categories D, E, and F to be mechanically fastened with corrosion-resistant fasteners. This prevents tiles from sliding or falling during seismic events, which is critical for life safety in California's earthquake-prone regions.

Answer Options
A
Tiles must be mechanically fastened with corrosion-resistant fasteners
B
Tiles must be reduced in size by 25% for seismic areas
C
Tiles must be installed with flexible joints every 10 feet
D
Tiles must be adhered with special seismic adhesive only

Why This Is the Correct Answer

CBC Section 1511.3.3 requires clay and concrete tiles in seismic design categories D, E, and F to be mechanically fastened with corrosion-resistant fasteners. Mechanical fastening prevents tiles from sliding or becoming airborne during seismic events, directly addressing life-safety risks from falling roof tiles in California's earthquake-prone regions.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

Option B: Tiles must be reduced in size by 25% for seismic areas

Reducing tile size by 25% is not a code requirement and has no basis in the CBC. Tile dimensions are governed by manufacturer specifications and aesthetic choices, not seismic regulations.

Option C: Tiles must be installed with flexible joints every 10 feet

Installing tiles with flexible joints every 10 feet is not a CBC requirement. While expansion joints exist in other contexts, this specific interval is not mandated for clay tile roofing in seismic zones.

Option D: Tiles must be adhered with special seismic adhesive only

Adhesive-only installation is actually less preferred in seismic zones than mechanical fastening. The CBC specifically requires mechanical fasteners because adhesive bonds can fail under the dynamic loading of an earthquake.

Memory Technique

Think 'seismic = screw it down.' Earthquakes shake tiles loose, so the CBC mandates mechanical fastening with corrosion-resistant fasteners to keep clay tiles anchored to the roof deck in California seismic zones.

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