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What is the minimum bearing required for a wooden beam on a masonry column?

  1. 1 inch

  2. 2 inches

  3. 3 inches

  4. 4 inches

The correct answer is: 3 inches

The minimum bearing required for a wooden beam on a masonry column is 3 inches. This specification is crucial as it ensures that the wooden beam has sufficient support to distribute the load effectively from the beam to the masonry column. A bearing surface of at least this dimension helps to prevent potential issues such as crushing of the wood or inadequate load transfer, which could compromise the structural integrity of the building. Using a bearing dimension that is too small can lead to uneven loading and even potential failure of the beam. This standard is based on building codes and engineering practices that prioritize safety and load-bearing capabilities in construction. Therefore, a minimum of 3 inches is considered necessary to provide a reliable and stable connection between the wooden beam and the masonry column.