Massachusetts Unrestricted Construction Supervisor License Practice Test

What is the name of a stud wall extending from the top of the foundation wall to the underside of the lowest occupied floor framing?

1. Partition wall

2. Stud wall

3. Cripple wall

4. Sheathing wall

The correct answer is: Cripple wall

The term for a stud wall that extends from the top of the foundation wall up to the underside of the lowest occupied floor framing is known as a cripple wall. This type of wall is specifically designed to support the structure above and is typically found in buildings with a raised foundation, such as those built on piers or posts. The cripple wall plays a crucial role in providing lateral stability and supporting the load of the structure, making it integral to the overall integrity of the building. In contrast, a partition wall is typically used to divide interior spaces and does not extend from the foundation. A stud wall is a more general term that refers to any wall framed with vertical studs but does not specify the context of its placement in relation to the foundation or occupied floors. Sheathing walls often refer to the exterior walls that are covered with sheathing materials for weatherproofing and insulation but do not specifically describe the relationship to the foundation. Thus, the nomenclature in construction emphasizes the function and location of various types of walls, leading to the identification of a wall that fits this specific definition as a cripple wall.