Which term refers to the exterior wall sheathing applied over framing?

• A. Paneling
• B. Cladding
• C. Plaster
• D. Sheathing

Answer: (D)

The main idea tested is identifying the structural layer that goes directly over the framing to form the wall’s base. This exterior wall layer is called sheathing. It’s typically made from plywood or oriented strand board and provides a solid, nailable surface for attaching the exterior finish and for overall wall stiffness and shear resistance before any siding or cladding is applied.

Cladding, by contrast, is the outermost protective or decorative covering installed after the sheathing, such as siding, brick veneer, or stucco. Paneling usually refers to interior wall coverings, not the exterior. Plaster is a finish that can be applied over lath or other backing, and it’s not the base structural layer on exterior walls. So the term that best fits “exterior wall sheathing applied over framing” is the sheathing.