The problem with wood is not only the size of the known hole. The problem is what other deflects are near this hole. A 2x12 (per the WWPA Western Lumber Grading Rules 2011) is allowed the following
Grade / Knots at edge / Knots at centerline / Holes any clause / Per lin ft.
#3 / 5.5” / 6.5” / 3.5” / 1'
#2 / 3.75” / 4.75” / 3” / 2'
#1 / 3” / 3.75” / 1.5” / 3'
SS / 2.25” / 3” / 1.25” / 4'
With a 4” dia. hole you have a piece of lumber that can not be regraded as a structural grade.
Per the attached NOTCHING & BORING GUIDE FOR FLOOR JOISTS & STUD WALLS IN CONVENTIONAL LIGHT-FRAME CONSTRUCTION (older guide that was not up dated to the IBC/IRC) from the WWPA at
My attached copy was a free download, now they want $2 to download a NOTCHING AND BORING GUIDE (A-11). So maybe it has been updated to the IBC/IRC.
A 2x12 is allowed a maximum 3.75” hole (minimum of 2” from edge of member) if the joist meet the conventional light-frame construction requirements. Personally I have never agreed with this and have always added a note that no other holes or knots shall be within the above “Per lin. ft.” of the hole.
As your hole is greater than the 3.75” for the conventional light-frame construction requirements or the grading rules sizes. I would replace the 2x12 or add another to it and have them drill an allowable size hole in it if needed. If you decide to “own” the hole. You will need to decide how to calculate it, what CYA notes to use and what personal safety factor to apply.
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.