Understanding Wall Bracing | Construction and DIY projects

Understanding Wall Bracing

icanreachit

Farm Hand

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18 Dec ’15 - 6:53 pm

Found this back when I was designing the wall bracing diagrams for my addition. Great intro for anyone who's going to try and tackle it themselves.

http://www.apawood.o.....ll-bracing

Covers the different types of wall bracing and their advantages. I will be using intermittent bracing with a combination of let in bracing (Simpson Strong Ties) and Wood Structural Panels (7/16" or greater OSB) in strategic locations. Using the let in bracing where possible and eliminating the need to completely wrap the structure in plywood allows me to use rigid foam where the plywood normally would have been (for a thermal break between siding and the interior cavity, and a cost savings activity), without compromising the structural integrity of the home.

Not sure if this is an issue for you guys in the northeast so much as it is here in Texas, it will just depend on your locally required wind load.

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Gravel Road

Rancher

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18 Dec ’15 - 7:02 pm

I believe Code up here in the North allows for 7/16 OSB 24 o.c. I think it is a little weak given the wind and snow loads. In previous builds I have used 1/2 inch 5 ply on walls and 5/8 ths 5 ply on roofs without any issues. The biggest reason for any sheet good failure that I have seen...people don't put in enough nails or the right kind of nails. Good to do your research.

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