40 Hour Property and Building Inspection Practice Test

Which engineered wood product can replace conventional joists?

1. Wood I-joists

2. Wood planks

3. Steel beams

4. Plywood sheets

The correct answer is: Wood I-joists

Wood I-joists are specifically designed engineered wood products that offer a lightweight and high-strength alternative to conventional solid wood joists. They are constructed by combining thin wooden flanges with a web made of oriented strand board (OSB) or plywood, creating a product that can span longer distances without requiring support. This feature makes them particularly advantageous in modern construction, as it allows for greater flexibility in design and the potential for larger open spaces. In addition to their strength and span capabilities, wood I-joists also help reduce material waste since they use less wood overall compared to solid lumber. Their uniformity and precision manufacturing result in fewer defects and more consistent quality, making them a preferred choice for many builders and engineers. They also facilitate easier installation and can accommodate various mechanical systems within the floor structure. Other options like wood planks, steel beams, and plywood sheets do not function the same way as joists. While they may have their applications in construction, they do not offer the same engineered performance characteristics that wood I-joists bring to the table.