California Residential Inspector Practice Exam

How far must anchor bolts extend into concrete for securing wood sill plates?

1. 4 inches

2. 5 inches

3. 6 inches

4. 7 inches

The correct answer is: 6 inches

Anchor bolts are critical in securing wood sill plates to concrete foundations, as they provide the necessary stability and resistance against lateral forces such as wind or seismic activity. The requirement for anchor bolt penetration into concrete is typically established by building codes to ensure a strong connection. The correct answer indicates that anchor bolts must extend a minimum of six inches into the concrete. This depth is specified to ensure that the anchor bolts can adequately resist pull-out forces and remain effective over time. A six-inch penetration indicates that there is enough concrete material surrounding the bolt to provide the necessary support and anchorage; this helps prevent issues that could arise from inadequate anchorage, such as shifting or settling of the structure. In summary, the six-inch penetration is a code requirement that reflects best practices in safe and durable construction, emphasizing the importance of proper anchorage in maintaining the structural integrity of buildings.