Florida Building Code Practice Exam

How should fire cuts be applied to wood joists that terminate in masonry walls?

1. They should be cut at an angle

2. They should not penetrate more than a specified depth

3. They should be reinforced with steel

4. They should be omitted if using fire-resistant materials

The correct answer is: They should not penetrate more than a specified depth

Fire cuts are an important consideration in construction to ensure the integrity of wood joists that terminate in masonry walls, particularly when it comes to fire safety. The correct choice emphasizes that fire cuts should not penetrate more than a specified depth. This guideline is designed to prevent the joists from being excessively weakened, which is critical for maintaining structural stability while still allowing for the expansion and potential movement that occurs in the event of a fire. By limiting the depth of the cut, the design effectively balances fire safety—by allowing the joists to properly disengage and fall away from the masonry in a fire scenario—with the preservation of structural integrity under normal conditions. This consideration is a fundamental aspect of the building code, emphasizing the significance of both fire safety and structural reliability. In contrast, while cutting at an angle, reinforcing with steel, or omitting fire cuts completely may seem like viable options, they do not align with the key principles needed to address the dual concerns of safety and stability in fire situations. Penetration limitations help ensure that the wood members can behave predictably under load and during a fire.