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small checks or splits in 2x lumber

small checks or splits in 2x lumber

small checks or splits in 2x lumber

(OP)
Greetings,

Are there reference standards governing allowable checks or splits in 2x construction lumber?

The reason I ask is: very often, I'll be walking through a house under construction, and the Owner, perhaps looking to find fault with a Contractor, will question small checks or splits at the end of a 2x4.    Experience tells me it's ok, lumber is a natural material and I don't expect machine tolerances.  If there was a major crack I'd have no reservations about having writing up a report rejecting the work!  I also know the code tolerances for cutting, notching and drilling of joists.   But for these small checks or splits I need some support material to pacify concerned Owners.   
 

RE: small checks or splits in 2x lumber

The lumber grading rules allows for certain size checks, splits and shakes for each grade. The WWPA Western Lumber Grading Rules is the one I use for the west coast. The last one I got costed $8. They may have some free information on-line go to www.wwpa.org for it.

Garth Dreger PE - AZ Phoenix area
As EOR's we should take the responsibility to design our structures to support the components we allow in our design per that industry standards.

RE: small checks or splits in 2x lumber

Mine is from 1984 and cost $2 at the time.  Got it for free at a  used book store.

If you are not on the west coast, you might contact the AITC to get the specs for your area, but I would expect no significant difference in the imperfection definitions or restrictions.    

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering

 

RE: small checks or splits in 2x lumber

SPIB for southern pine

RE: small checks or splits in 2x lumber


NELMA for the Northeastern US:
Northeast Lumber Manufacturers Association
PO Box 87A
Cumberland Center, ME 04021

NLGA in Canada.
National Lumber Grades Authority
960 Quayside Drive
New Westminster BC Canada V3M 6G2

If the checks/splits existed BEFORE the members were used as framing, they are probably acceptable.  However, if the splits are a result of an over-enthusiastic framing carpenter, then I'd be concerned about workmanship issues.
 

Ralph
Structures Consulting
Northeast USA

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