why do wood stud walls have double top plates?
why do wood stud walls have double top plates?
(OP)
they seem to always have single bottom plates and double top plates...why not single top plates? is this related to ease of construction or is it a structural concept?
i've always wondered this...
Thanks.
i've always wondered this...
Thanks.






RE: why do wood stud walls have double top plates?
RE: why do wood stud walls have double top plates?
Wood frame construction is redundant in nature, so the double top plate really does a number of things. One, floor joists, rafters, and trusses don't always line up with the studs, especially when the studs are at 16 and the others are at 19.2 or 24 inches, so load has to be transferred to the stud through the dbl. plate. Also, it can be the only portion of the lateral resisting system that acts as a chord, but usally it has help. If you have ever framed any, you will find it helps straighten out the top of you wall too.
Just a few listed, there are more reasons.
RE: why do wood stud walls have double top plates?
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RE: why do wood stud walls have double top plates?
and what about doubled-up studs?
are those installed just for extra strength and stiffness around doors and windows where some big localized point loads may occur?
RE: why do wood stud walls have double top plates?
RE: why do wood stud walls have double top plates?
The number and size of king studs depends on the vertical point load and on wind loading (exterior walls). It is a column (just like studs are) and needs to be designed for vertical and lateral loads. Note interior walls shouldn't require as many king studs, because no wind load.
RE: why do wood stud walls have double top plates?
RE: why do wood stud walls have double top plates?
RE: why do wood stud walls have double top plates?
Dik
RE: why do wood stud walls have double top plates?
RE: why do wood stud walls have double top plates?
do you use a metal strap splice to get continuity?
Dik
RE: why do wood stud walls have double top plates?
I don't think it will be too common in the US. Beyond structural reasons, I think there are too many practical reasons, like having to change pre-cut stud lenghts and having to install blocking for crown molding attachment to name a few.
RE: why do wood stud walls have double top plates?
Single plates top and bottom typically. I'm not aware of any continuity strap splice but it's a while since I've done residential.
In which direction are you looking for continuity; vertical, horizontal or both?
Our AS1684.2 does have standard details for joining and stiffening plates. As I understand it the joining details are to transfer mainly axial loads. The stiffening is used for concentrated loads, although I would expect a stud or 2 directly under the load.
RE: why do wood stud walls have double top plates?
In these environs, bot plates are generally single elements...
Ever heard of an Australian Kiss... like a French one, only down under... <G>
Dik