General Contractor Practice Exam

Shores are temporary supports utilized in construction specifically to maintain the stability and load-bearing capacity of horizontal formwork. They are crucial during the curing process of concrete, as they ensure that the formed surface remains in place and can withstand the weight of the poured concrete until it gains sufficient strength to support itself. By distributing the load evenly and preventing sagging or deformation, shores play a critical role in ensuring the integrity and quality of constructed elements, such as slabs or ceilings.

In contrast, the other choices pertain to different construction tasks. Heating concrete is a method used to accelerate curing under cold conditions but is unrelated to the function of shores. Bracing walls in vertical spaces involves different support structures aimed at stabilizing walls during construction, and sealing openings relates to weatherproofing and insulation practices not connected to the support of formwork. Each of these options addresses distinct aspects of construction, while shores are specifically focused on providing support beneath horizontal elements during concrete installation.