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Roofing finishes practice questions

27 questions from the general building trade knowledge practice test.

Roofing finishes practice test

10 questions, graded as you go, with the reason for every answer. No sign-up.

What this covers

Sample questions

A roof surface measures 2,400 sq ft. Shingles come three bundles to the square. Allowing 10% for waste, how many bundles must be ordered? Round up to whole bundles.

Answer in bundles.

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80 bundles

Area with waste = 2,400 x 1.10 = 2,640 sq ft = 26.4 squares. Bundles = 26.4 x 3 = 79.2, so 80 bundles.

Reference: Roofing estimating: squares and bundles

What is the main job of underlayment beneath asphalt shingles?

  1. To glue the shingles down to the roof deck
  2. To insulate the attic space against summer heat gain
  3. To act as a second line of defence against water
  4. To keep the roof deck from deflecting
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C. To act as a second line of defence against water

Underlayment sheds water that gets past the shingles from wind-driven rain or damage. Shingles are held by nails and their own seal strips, not by the underlayment.

Reference: Asphalt shingle installation practice (ARMA/NRCA)

In cold climates, why is a self-adhering membrane installed along the eaves under the shingles?

  1. To keep snow from sliding off the roof in sheets
  2. To hold the starter course against wind uplift
  3. To stop condensation forming under the roof deck
  4. To stop water backed up by ice dams from leaking in
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D. To stop water backed up by ice dams from leaking in

Ice dams at the cold eave pond meltwater, which can back up under shingles; the membrane seals around nails and keeps it out. Condensation under the deck is controlled by ventilation and air sealing.

Reference: Ice barrier provisions for steep-slope roofs (concept)

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