Stud Wall Bridging Requirements
Stud Wall Bridging Requirements
(OP)
Somewhere, in some document or code, I recall seeing a requirement that any stud wall framing over 8 feet in height would require the addition of intermediate lines of bridging to keep the unsupported stud length < 8'.
I cannot find this provision, tied to the 8' length in any code. (looking at U.S. codes)
In the IBC 2000, section 2308.9.9 seems to require an h/t limit, but I can't recall where the 8' criteria came from.
Anybody know where this is?
We had it on a set of older plans and now that its getting built, we can't justify it off of the current code.
I cannot find this provision, tied to the 8' length in any code. (looking at U.S. codes)
In the IBC 2000, section 2308.9.9 seems to require an h/t limit, but I can't recall where the 8' criteria came from.
Anybody know where this is?
We had it on a set of older plans and now that its getting built, we can't justify it off of the current code.





RE: Stud Wall Bridging Requirements
"Wood-Frame House Construction"
US Department of Agriculture Handbook No 73, By L. O. Anderson, first issued in 1955.
A quote, taking about balloon construction: "In most areas, building codes require firestops be used in balloon framing to prevent the spread of fire through the open wall passages. These firestops are ordinarily of 2 by 4-inch blocking placed between the studs (fig 35) or as required by local regulations."
Figure 35 shows the firestops at the "2nd-floor joist" elevation - probably the 8 ft. dimension you referenced. There is no reference to keeping the unbraced length to 8 ft or less, but the "appearance" of the firestops is exactly what you have described.
Maybe a review of pre-1955 "big city" building codes would turn up something. I don't have access to any myself.
RE: Stud Wall Bridging Requirements
I do seem to remember that it was in a code....like the UBC or something, where I saw it...more of a recent code, and I put the requirement in our "standard" notes to use in the future. Now I'm trying to validate the requirement.
I've been in the business for some years....but not since the 50's. I was riding a tricycle then.
I'll keep looking but I distinctly remember it as a code requirement in an obscure paragraph somewhere.
RE: Stud Wall Bridging Requirements
RE: Stud Wall Bridging Requirements
RE: Stud Wall Bridging Requirements
RE: Stud Wall Bridging Requirements
RE: Stud Wall Bridging Requirements
The depth of knolodge some of u guys have, makes me realise my own lacking.
RE: Stud Wall Bridging Requirements
RE: Stud Wall Bridging Requirements
RE: Stud Wall Bridging Requirements
RE: Stud Wall Bridging Requirements