Commercial Building Inspector B2Wall Construction and Wall CoveringsEasy
A commercial building inspector is reviewing plans for a new three-story office building. The plans indicate that the exterior walls are constructed of wood structural panels. What is the minimum nominal thickness required for wood structural panel sheathing used as a wall covering, when fasteners are spaced at 6 inches on center, on studs spaced at 24 inches on center?
- A3/8 inch
- B1/2 inch
- C7/16 inch
- D5/8 inch
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 7/16 inch
According to IBC Table 2304.6.1(2), for wood structural panel sheathing on exterior walls with studs spaced at 24 inches on center and fasteners at 6 inches on center, the minimum nominal panel thickness is 7/16 inch.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 3/8 inch is typically too thin for this stud spacing and fastener schedule according to IBC Table 2304.6.1(2).
- B. 1/2 inch would be acceptable but is not the minimum required thickness.
- D. 5/8 inch is thicker than required and would be an overdesign for these conditions.
Wood Structural Panel Sheathing Thickness
The minimum thickness of wood structural panels used as wall sheathing is dictated by stud spacing and fastener schedule to ensure adequate structural integrity.
- Thickness varies with stud spacing (e.g., 16" o.c., 24" o.c.).
- Fastener spacing also influences required thickness.
- Refer to IBC Table 2304.6.1(2) for specific requirements.
Memory trick: Sheathing Standards: Studs, Spacing, Strength.