Residential Building Inspector B1Building Planning and Life SafetyHard
A residential building inspector is performing a framing inspection for a new dwelling. The plans specify a 2x6 wood stud wall. What is the maximum height permitted for a load-bearing exterior wall constructed with 2x6 studs, spaced 16 inches (406 mm) on center, with a single top plate, supporting a roof and ceiling only, with a maximum wind design speed of 100 mph (161 km/h)?
- A12 feet (3658 mm)
- B10 feet (3048 mm)
- C14 feet (4267 mm)
- D16 feet (4877 mm)
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 12 feet (3658 mm)
The maximum height of wood stud walls is governed by several factors, including stud size, spacing, number of stories supported, and wind design speed. For 2x6 studs at 16 inches on center, supporting a roof and ceiling only, with a 100 mph wind speed, the maximum height is 12 feet.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This height is permitted but not the maximum for these conditions.
- C. This height would exceed the limit for the specified conditions.
- D. This height would significantly exceed the limit for the specified conditions.
Wood Stud Wall Height Limits
Maximum allowable heights for wood stud walls are determined by stud size, spacing, load supported, and exposure to wind and seismic forces.
- Found in IRC Table R602.3(5) or similar.
- Accounts for axial and lateral loads.
- Critical for structural integrity and safety.
Memory trick: Studs stand tall, but the code's table holds them all.