CSLB General Building (B)Framing and CarpentryHard
A framer notches a top plate 2-1/2 inches deep to run a 2-inch water pipe through a wall where the plate is 3-1/2 inches wide. Since the notch removes more than 50% of the plate's width, what does code require to maintain the wall's structural continuity?
- AThe entire top plate must be replaced with a laminated veneer lumber (LVL) member
- BThe stud spacing must be reduced to 12 inches on center near the notch
- CNothing additional is required if the wall is non-load-bearing
- DA minimum 16-gauge, 1-1/2-inch-wide galvanized metal tie must be fastened across the notch
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. A minimum 16-gauge, 1-1/2-inch-wide galvanized metal tie must be fastened across the notch
When a top plate is notched or bored such that more than 50% of its width is removed, code requires a minimum 16-gauge, 1-1/2-inch-wide galvanized metal tie be securely fastened across and beyond the notch on each side to restore load path continuity for both bearing and non-bearing walls.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Replacing the entire plate with LVL is unnecessary; a tie plate is the code remedy.
- B. Reducing stud spacing does not address the discontinuity in the plate itself.
- C. The tie requirement applies even to non-bearing walls when the notch exceeds 50% of plate width.
Top Plate Notch Metal Tie
When a top plate is notched more than 50% of its width for utilities, a minimum 16-gauge x 1-1/2-inch metal tie must be nailed across the notch to maintain structural continuity.
- Trigger: notch removes >50% of plate width
- Remedy: 16-gauge, 1.5-inch galvanized tie plate
- Applies to both bearing and non-bearing walls per code
Memory trick: Cut past half, bridge with metal.