California Real Estate Practice Exam

Sheet metal used to protect a building from water seepage is called:

1. facade

2. flashing

3. footing

4. furring

The correct answer is: facade

The correct answer is flashing. Flashing is a critical building material that serves the purpose of directing water away from certain areas of a structure to prevent water seepage and potential damage. It is typically made from sheet metal or other waterproof materials and is installed in areas where water may accumulate, such as around chimneys, skylights, window sills, and the joints of roofing systems. The role of flashing is essential in maintaining the integrity of a building's envelope by ensuring that water does not penetrate into the walls or structure. The other choices represent different building components or materials. Facade refers to the front or exterior side of a building, which can include various design elements and materials but does not specifically focus on water protection. Footing pertains to the structural foundation that supports the building, and is typically underground, providing stability. Furring refers to the process of attaching strips of material to walls or ceilings to create a space for insulation or to level surfaces, which is not related to the prevention of water seepage. Understanding these distinctions helps to clarify why flashing is the appropriate term in this context.