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Project MgmtConstructionmedium63% of exam part

You discover that drywall was installed with screws spaced 24 inches on center on walls. What action should you take?

Correct Answer

A) Require additional screws to meet 16-inch spacing

Drywall screws on walls should be spaced no more than 16 inches on center per industry standards. Additional screws should be installed to meet proper spacing requirements.

Answer Options
A
Require additional screws to meet 16-inch spacing
B
Accept the installation as adequate
C
Add construction adhesive to supplement
D
Remove and reinstall all drywall

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Drywall screws on walls must be spaced no more than 16 inches on center according to industry standards and building codes. The current 24-inch spacing is inadequate and creates potential for sagging, cracking, or failure of the drywall system. Adding screws to achieve proper 16-inch spacing is the most cost-effective solution that brings the installation into compliance without requiring complete removal and reinstallation of the drywall.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

Option B: Accept the installation as adequate

Accepting 24-inch spacing violates industry standards and building codes that require maximum 16-inch spacing for wall drywall. This inadequate fastening could lead to drywall sagging, joint cracking, or complete failure over time. The installation does not meet minimum safety and quality requirements and must be corrected.

Option C: Add construction adhesive to supplement

While construction adhesive can provide additional holding power, it cannot substitute for proper screw spacing requirements. Adhesive alone will not address the fundamental issue of inadequate mechanical fastening. Building codes specifically require proper screw spacing, and adhesive is considered supplemental, not a replacement for correct fastener installation.

Option D: Remove and reinstall all drywall

Complete removal and reinstallation is unnecessarily costly and wasteful when the issue can be resolved by simply adding screws to achieve proper spacing. The existing drywall installation can be salvaged by installing additional fasteners, making this an extreme and inefficient solution to a relatively simple compliance issue.

Memory Technique

Remember 'Sweet 16' - drywall screws on walls max 16 inches on center, like celebrating your 16th birthday only once every 16 inches!

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