Residential Building Inspector B1Wall Construction and Wall CoveringsMedium
A builder is constructing a two-story residence with a wall height of 9 feet for each story. What is the maximum spacing permitted for 2x6 wood studs in an exterior load-bearing wall supporting a roof and one floor?
- A24 inches on center
- B16 inches on center
- C48 inches on center
- D32 inches on center
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 24 inches on center
According to IRC Table R602.3(1) for wood stud walls, for a 2x6 exterior load-bearing wall supporting a roof and one floor, the maximum stud spacing is 24 inches on center, provided the wall height does not exceed 10 feet.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. 16 inches o.c. is permitted for 2x6 studs but is not the maximum allowed for this load condition, making it a more conservative but not required choice.
- C. 48 inches o.c. is far too wide for any standard wood stud load-bearing wall in residential construction.
- D. 32 inches o.c. is not permitted for 2x6 exterior load-bearing walls supporting a roof and one floor.
Wood Stud Spacing (Load-Bearing)
The maximum spacing for wood studs in load-bearing walls depends on the stud size, the number of stories supported, and the wall height.
- 2x4 studs: Max 16 inches o.c. for 1-story or 2-story with roof only.
- 2x6 studs: Max 24 inches o.c. for 2-story with roof and one floor.
- Wall height limitations apply to each spacing/size combination.
Memory trick: Studs are like legs holding up the house, more weight or height means closer legs.