General Contractor Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The minimum allowable thickness of exposed plywood over studs spaced 16 inches on center is 3/8 inch. This specification is important for ensuring structural integrity and providing adequate support for the plywood. Plywood serves as an essential component in many construction applications, including sheathing, subflooring, and wall systems.

When plywood is used as wall sheathing over studs, it must be thick enough to resist bending and deflection under loads, such as wind or seismic forces. The thickness of 3/8 inch provides a balance between weight and strength for typical residential construction scenarios, where studs are commonly spaced 16 inches apart. Thinner materials, like 1/4 inch, may not provide sufficient rigidity or stability, while thicker options could add unnecessary weight and expense.

Understanding these thickness requirements is vital for ensuring compliance with building codes and maintaining safety and performance standards in construction.