Which of the following materials is commonly subject to special inspections?

Concrete, steel, masonry, and wood construction are commonly subject to special inspections because these materials play critical roles in the structural integrity of buildings and infrastructures. Special inspections are required to ensure that the construction adheres to approved plans and applicable building codes, especially for elements that are heavily loaded or where failure could lead to significant safety hazards.

Concrete, for instance, must be monitored for proper mixing, pouring, and curing processes to guarantee its strength and durability. Steel construction requires inspections to verify the quality of welds and connections, which are vital for load-bearing structures. Masonry, which includes materials like bricks and blocks, involves specific techniques during installation that must be followed for optimal performance. Wood construction, while not as intensive as concrete and steel, also has requirements for inspection to ensure that it is properly treated, installed, and meets the necessary codes for structural use.

In contrast, materials like glass, ceramics, plastics, and rubber generally have different guidelines and may not fall under the same high scrutiny as structural components. Asphalt and paint, while certainly important in construction, typically do not require special inspections in the same manner as the structural materials mentioned. Therefore, the focus on concrete, steel, masonry, and wood reflects the priority placed on maintaining safety, structural