In reading the 2000 IRC (current code in NC) wall bracing section (R602), I had a question on Table 602.10.1. Actually I am looking at the APA Intro to Wall Bracing document for the Table, as the copy that the ICC sent me doesn’t have Table 602.10.1 in it! They are mailing a copy to me.
Anyway, in the column for “Maximum Spacing Between Braced Wall Lines”, it shows 35′ for seismic zones A,B,C or wind speeds < 110mph. The interpretation question: If I have a house that is less than 35′ wide, I need only one of those two walls to be a braced wall line. Correct?
Replies
JD,
The best thing would be to ask your local Building Dept. official, but I know that wouldn't pass here. The max spacing "between" the two panels assumes you have two panels, obviously you have to have two points to be able to measure the distance between.
Attached is a copy of the APA document you're looking for.
Jon Blakemore
RappahannockINC.com Fredericksburg, VA
I would have to agree with Jon. Coming from the engineering standpoint, having only one braced line is pretty much equivalent to having a car with only wheels on one side. The same principle at least. You don't want to have the wall on the other end moving around and creating cracks in the drywall.