20. A cricket or saddle shall be installed on the ridge side of any chimney with a width greater than
Answer: A
A cricket or saddle shall be installed on the ridge side of any chimney with a width greater than 30 inches.
To ensure proper drainage and prevent water accumulation, a cricket or saddle is required on chimney widths exceeding 30 inches.
A) 30 inches.
This option is correct as it precisely matches the requirement for installing a cricket or saddle. The code specifies that a cricket must be used for chimneys wider than this measurement to facilitate efficient water runoff.
B) 23 inches.
This option is incorrect because it falls below the specified width of 30 inches. Installing a cricket or saddle is not mandated for chimneys that are 23 inches wide or less, as they are less likely to accumulate water.
C) 18 inches.
This option is also incorrect since 18 inches is significantly less than the 30-inch requirement. A chimney of this width does not necessitate the installation of a cricket or saddle based on drainage guidelines.
D) 16 inches.
This choice is incorrect as well, as it is below the threshold of 30 inches. Chimneys measuring 16 inches do not require a cricket or saddle, which is designed for larger widths to prevent water pooling.
Conclusion
The requirement for a cricket or saddle to be installed on chimneys wider than 30 inches is crucial for effective drainage and moisture management. Options B, C, and D do not meet this width criterion and therefore do not necessitate such installations, confirming that A is the only correct response.