Red Seal Carpenter Exam (Interprovincial)
G. Renovations: practice questions
Our Red Seal Carpenter bank has 20 questions on this topic. Here are 5 of them with answers; the full mock exam draws from every topic, like the real one.
Question 1
When adding a new floor to existing framing, the new subfloor should be:
- Higher than the old floor to show the addition
- Aligned flush with the existing floor surface
- Unfastened to allow movement
- Laid on the old roof
Show the answer
B. Aligned flush with the existing floor surface — New construction must meet the old at matching elevations.
Question 2
Before removing part of a floor system to add a stair opening, the joists to be cut must be:
- Left hanging until the inspection so the inspector can see the original framing
- Glued together
- Supported temporarily and then carried by new headers and trimmers
- Cut without support
Show the answer
C. Supported temporarily and then carried by new headers and trimmers — The cut joists must be supported so the floor does not drop.
Question 3
Suspected asbestos-containing material is found during demolition. The carpenter should:
- Stop work in that area and report it so it can be tested and handled properly
- Break it up quickly and bag it
- Cover it with new drywall and continue work so that the fibres stay sealed in
- Sweep it with a dry broom
Show the answer
A. Stop work in that area and report it so it can be tested and handled properly — Disturbing asbestos releases fibres; work stops until it is assessed and abated by qualified workers.
Question 4
Dry sanding or heat-stripping old paint in an older house is hazardous mainly because the paint may contain:
- Formaldehyde
- Lead
- Radon
- Silica
Show the answer
B. Lead — Older paints often contain lead; sanding and burning release lead dust and fumes. Hazardous materials must be identified before renovation work (RSOS G-21).
Question 5
Sistering a joist means:
- Fastening a new joist alongside a damaged or weak one
- Cutting a joist in half
- Removing every other joist
- Installing bridging only
Show the answer
A. Fastening a new joist alongside a damaged or weak one — The new member shares load with the old one.