General Contractor Practice Exam

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Prepare for the General Contractor Exam with our comprehensive quiz. Featuring flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each accompanied by hints and detailed explanations, this resource will ensure you’re ready for your licensing examination!

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What is the proper way to pick up a truss?

By the base plate
By the side
By the bottom chord
By the top chord

The correct answer is: By the top chord

Picking up a truss by the top chord is the proper method because this area is specifically designed to bear loads and provide structural stability during lifting. The top chord is a critical component of the truss that supports the roof or structural element it’s designed to carry. When lifting a truss, it’s essential to maintain its integrity and ensure it is balanced, which is more effectively achieved by lifting from the top chord. The other methods of picking up a truss can lead to potential issues. Lifting by the base plate can be unstable, especially if the truss is not fully supported on a flat surface. Picking it up by the sides may not provide enough support to maintain a proper balance, risking bending or twisting during the lift. Lifting from the bottom chord may also lead to structural stress or damage since the bottom chord is primarily designed to handle tension rather than serve as a lifting point. Overall, lifting from the top chord promotes safety and preserves the truss's structural design.