Joining top plates on a small addition
Irwin
| Posted in Construction Techniques on
I have enjoyed reading everyones posts on this board for a few months now and I finally have a question for anyone willing to chime in.
I am getting close to the framing portion of a small master bedroom addition to our one story ranch style home in California and I have been wondering how to handle the overlap of the top plates. One side of the addition t’s in to the middle of the existing structure and the other side is an extension of an outside wall. Instead of a 4 ft. overlap between top plate joints is it ok to use a metal strap or some sort of Simpson hardware where the new top plates connect to the existing structure or will I have to run the top plate 4 feet into the existing framing?
Thanks for any input.
Irwin
Replies
Phone your local inspector and ask how they want it done. In addition to finding out how to make it pass, it starts your inspector relationship by letting them know that you intend to give them no problems and do things right.
-- J.S.
I agree with John. For those of us who live far from California and earthquake country, the proper connections for our area might not be correct for yours.
I agree, call the inspector in your area. We (also in CA) have used straps for various tie-ins, but generally as more of a last resort. And we used a long length of strap.
Young, poor, and eager to learn
Thanks for the input. I have my foundation inspection today so I will ask them.
Michigan code allows for a 5" by 7" metal plate, with for nails into each wall. These are allowed substitutes for lapped plates on all bearing walls.
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