Is that a clear vertical span, or does the wall receive intermediate support from the second floor?
If there is no vertical support, I would design the lateral deflection of all members to L/600 (hjigher than the code of L/360) considering the windows and the fact that it would be considered a window wall. Depending on things here, you may be looking at a 2X8 or 2X10 wall.
If there is support from the second floor, there is really no difficult issue to address.
If you used 2X6's for the wall, you have a problem.
Can you post a diagram of the wall framing configuration? I just hope that you do not have an intermediate double plate at the second floor line. PLEASE tell me you don't!
has a tall wall guide for designing single storey tall walls up to 11.9 m (39 ft.) in height. Several of the engineered wood product manufacturers also have guides related to their products.
Have used 11-7/8" LVL's @ 12"o.c. up to about 25' before - spacing and/or final depth would depend upon lateral and gravity loads. I wouldn't think the actual analysis and design methods would be different from a 2x6 or 2x4 wall as long as you complied with bending, lateral deflection requirements and axial load requirements based upon l/d ratios. If you use a 12" deep framing member and are sheathed with 3/8" plywood, your lateral l/d would only be in the range of 23 or 24. Could also consider light gage metal studs.
Exterior wall near staircase? Do you mean the walls enclosing the staircase?
Or do you mean the walls of the Porte Coche? Is that the same as Port Cochere? But that ceiling is ten feet high. I can't see on plan where you have a tall wall.
I can't see a tall wall either, but if the length of the wall is shorter than it is tall it is often best to divide up using horizontal beams (wind beams).
