Georgia Residential Contractor Practice Exam

What must be placed in the center of the trench with perforations oriented toward the bottom?

1. Solid pipe

2. Gravel base

3. Perforated pipe

4. Cement pipe

The correct answer is: Perforated pipe

The requirement to place a perforated pipe in the center of the trench with the perforations oriented toward the bottom relates to effective drainage systems. Perforated pipes are designed to collect and transport water away from certain areas, preventing water accumulation and minimizing flooding or water damage. When the perforations are oriented toward the bottom, it allows water to enter the pipe efficiently, while the solid structure of the pipe ensures that debris does not easily clog it. This configuration also promotes proper drainage, as the water can seep into the pipe rather than just running along the trench bottom. In contexts such as French drains or drainage fields, the usage of perforated pipes is essential for managing groundwater and ensuring that moisture does not result in structural issues. Such systems are crucial in residential construction to maintain dry basements and protect foundations. Other options, like solid pipe or gravel base, serve different purposes and do not provide the same drainage capabilities when used in the center of a trench where water accumulation is a concern. Cement pipes are also not suitable here as they do not facilitate the drainage process due to their solid construction.