NASCLA Accredited Commercial General ContractorWoodEasy
A framing crew is installing wall sheathing on a commercial building. The structural drawings specify the sheathing to be installed with a particular nailing pattern for shear wall resistance. Which of the following nailing patterns provides the highest shear resistance for plywood or OSB sheathing?
- A6 inches on center (o.c.) at panel edges, 6 inches o.c. in the field.
- B12 inches on center (o.c.) at panel edges, 12 inches o.c. in the field.
- C4 inches on center (o.c.) at panel edges, 8 inches o.c. in the field.
- D6 inches on center (o.c.) at panel edges, 12 inches o.c. in the field.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 4 inches on center (o.c.) at panel edges, 8 inches o.c. in the field.
A tighter nailing pattern, especially at the panel edges, increases the shear resistance of wood structural panel sheathing by distributing forces more effectively and reducing fastener slip.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While 6 inches o.c. in the field is good, 4 inches o.c. at the edges is better for maximum shear.
- B. This loose pattern provides minimal shear resistance.
- D. This is a common nailing pattern, but not the highest for shear resistance.
Shear Wall Nailing
The spacing of fasteners used to attach wood structural panels to framing members, which directly impacts the shear resistance of a shear wall.
- Tighter nailing patterns increase shear resistance.
- Edge nailing is more critical for shear than field nailing.
- Specific patterns are detailed in building codes (e.g., IBC/IRC).
Memory trick: Shear strength is tight, like a well-nailed kite.