Final answer:
Stone and masonry veneer installed over a wood or cold-formed steel backing is limited to the first story above grade and should not exceed 4 inches in thickness. This ensures structural stability and safety in compliance with building codes.
The correct option is 2.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student is asking about the limitations on the use of stone and masonry veneer when applied over a wood or cold-formed steel backing in construction. The correct answer to this question must comply with building codes, which often limit the veneer to the first story above grade and dictate the maximum thickness that the veneer can be.
According to common building codes, the stone and masonry veneer installed over a backing of wood or cold-formed steel shall be limited to the first story above grade and shall not exceed 4 inches. This restriction is in place to ensure structural stability and safety, as the weight of the veneer could otherwise compromise the integrity of the supporting materials.
By using materials like limestone, historical and modern structures alike manage to balance aesthetic appeal with structural requirements. The limitations of stone and masonry veneer thickness are part of the considerations made by architects and builders to ensure a balance between appearance and safety, much like the design choices made in historical buildings where weight and support mechanisms were critical considerations.
The correct option is 2.