CSLB General Building (B)Framing and CarpentryMedium
A roofing crew is installing 15/32-inch plywood roof sheathing over rafters spaced 24 inches on center. Per typical code nailing schedules for roof sheathing, what nail spacing is required at panel edges versus the field of the panel?
- A12 inches at edges, 6 inches in the field
- B4 inches at edges, 4 inches in the field
- C6 inches at edges, 12 inches in the field
- D8 inches at edges, 8 inches in the field
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 6 inches at edges, 12 inches in the field
Standard roof sheathing nailing requires 8d common nails spaced 6 inches on center at panel edges (supported edges) and 12 inches on center in the field (interior of the panel) for rafter spacing up to 24 inches on center, ensuring adequate diaphragm and wind/uplift resistance.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Reverses the pattern; edges need tighter spacing than the field.
- B. Overly tight spacing not typically required and wastes material/labor.
- D. Too loose at edges, which need closer nailing for panel edge support.
Roof Sheathing Nailing Schedule
Standard nailing for roof sheathing panels is 6 inches on center at supported edges and 12 inches on center in the field.
- 6 in o.c. at edges, 12 in o.c. field is typical minimum
- Tighter spacing (e.g., 6/6) may be required in high wind/seismic zones
- Uses 8d common nails typically for 15/32-in to 19/32-in sheathing
Memory trick: Six on the edge, twelve in the middle.