The unsupported height of masonry piers shall not exceed how many times their least dimension?

The correct answer, which indicates that the unsupported height of masonry piers shall not exceed 10 times their least dimension, is based on structural integrity and safety standards established in the North Carolina Residential Code.

Masonry piers are vertical elements that support loads, and their stability is crucial for the safety and durability of any structure. The code provides specific guidelines regarding their height in relation to the least dimension to prevent the risk of buckling and structural failure.

By limiting the height to 10 times the least dimension, the code ensures that piers maintain sufficient strength and capacity to handle the loads they are subjected to, while also accounting for potential eccentric loading and lateral stability. This ratio helps ensure that piers are proportioned adequately, reducing the likelihood of structural issues over time, such as cracking or collapsing.

Understanding this ratio is essential for anyone involved in construction or renovation, as it directly impacts the safety and longevity of masonry structures.