Commercial Building Inspector B2Wall Construction and Wall CoveringsMedium
A commercial building inspector is reviewing the plans for a new building with interior walls constructed of masonry. The plans indicate that hollow masonry units are used. What is the minimum nominal thickness for a non-bearing hollow masonry interior wall in a commercial building, according to IBC Section 2109.2?
- A4 inches
- B8 inches
- C10 inches
- D6 inches
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. 4 inches
According to IBC Section 2109.2, the minimum nominal thickness for a non-bearing hollow masonry interior wall is 4 inches.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. 8 inches is typically a minimum for bearing masonry walls or for fire-rated walls of a certain rating.
- C. 10 inches is significantly thicker than the minimum required for a non-bearing interior wall.
- D. 6 inches is a common thickness but not the minimum required for non-bearing walls.
Non-Bearing Masonry Wall Thickness
The International Building Code specifies minimum thicknesses for non-bearing masonry walls to ensure stability, cover utility chases, and support finishes, even without carrying vertical loads.
- Minimum 4 inches nominal for hollow units (IBC 2109.2).
- Thicker walls may be needed for fire ratings or sound control.
- Applies to non-load-bearing partitions.
Memory trick: Masonry's Measure: Minimal for Non-bearing.