Section 2306 — ALLOWABLE STRESS DESIGN
2025 California Building Code (Title 24, Part 2) · 2025 edition · updated 2026-07-29 · California
Italicized text is a California amendment to the model code, as printed in the official publication.
2306.1 Allowable stress design. ¶
The design and construction of wood elements in structures using allowable stress design shall be in accordance with the applicable standards listed in Table 2306.1.
TABLE 2306.1—STANDARDS FOR DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF
WOOD ELEMENTS IN STRUCTURES USING ALLOWABLE STRESS DESIGN
| STANDARDS PROMULGATOR |
STANDARD | TITLE |
|---|---|---|
| American Wood Council | American Wood Council | American Wood Council |
| ANSI/AWC NDS | National Design Specification for Wood Construction | |
| SDPWS | Special Design Provisions for Wind and Seismic | |
| American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers | ||
| ASABE EP 484.3 | Diaphragm Design of Metal-clad, Wood-Frame Rectangular Buildings | |
| ASABE EP 486.3 | Shallow Post and Pier Foundation Design | |
| ASABE EP 559.1 | Design Requirements and Bending Properties for Mechanically Laminated Wood Assemblies | |
| APA—The Engineered Wood Association | APA—The Engineered Wood Association | APA—The Engineered Wood Association |
| ANSI 117 | Standard Specifications for Structural Glued Laminated Timber of Softwood Species | |
| ANSI A190.1 | Structural Glued Laminated Timber | |
| Panel Design Specification | ||
| Plywood Design Specification Supplement 1—Design & Fabrication of Plywood Curved Panel | ||
| Plywood Design Specification Supplement 2—Design & Fabrication of Glued Plywood-lumber Beams | ||
| Plywood Design Specification Supplement 3—Design & Fabrication of Plywood Stressed-skin Panels | ||
| Plywood Design Specification Supplement 4—Design & Fabrication of Plywood Sandwich Panels | ||
| Plywood Design Specification Supplement 5—Design & Fabrication of All-plywood Beams | ||
| APA T300 | Glulam Connection Details | |
| APA S560 | Field Notching and Drilling of Glued Laminated Timber Beams | |
| APA S475 | Glued Laminated Beam Design Tables | |
| APA X450 | Glulam in Residential Construction | |
| APA X440 | Product and Application Guide: Glulam | |
| APA R540 | Builders Tips: Proper Storage and Handling of Glulam Beams | |
| Truss Plate Institute, Inc. | Truss Plate Institute, Inc. | Truss Plate Institute, Inc. |
| TPI 1 | National Design Standard for Metal Plate Connected Wood Truss Construction |
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
WOOD
TABLE 2306.1—STANDARDS FOR DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF
WOOD ELEMENTS IN STRUCTURES USING ALLOWABLE STRESS DESIGN—continued
| STANDARDS PROMULGATOR |
STANDARD | TITLE |
|---|---|---|
| West Coast Lumber Inspection Bureau | West Coast Lumber Inspection Bureau | West Coast Lumber Inspection Bureau |
| AITC 104 | Typical Construction Details | |
| AITC 110 | Standard Appearance Grades for Structural Glued Laminated Timber | |
| AITC 113 | Standard for Dimensions of Structural Glued Laminated Timber | |
| AITC 119 | Standard Specifications for Structural Glued Laminated Timber of Hardwood Species | |
| AITC 200 | Inspection Manual |
2306.1.1 Joists and rafters. The design of rafter spans is permitted to be in accordance with the AWC STJR.
2306.1.2 Plank and beam flooring. The design of plank and beam flooring is permitted to be in accordance with the AWC Wood Construction Data No. 4.
2306.1.3 Preservative-treated wood allowable stresses. The allowable unit stresses for preservative-treated wood conforming to AWPA U1 need not be adjusted for treatment, but are subject to other adjustments. Load duration factors greater than 1.6 shall not be used in the structural design of preservative-treated wood members.
2306.1.4 Fire-retardant-treated wood allowable stresses. The allowable unit stresses for fire-retardant-treated wood, including connection design values, shall be developed in accordance with the provisions of Section 2303.2.6. Load duration factors greater than 1.6 shall not be used in the structural design of fire-retardant-treated wood members.
2306.1.5 Lumber decking. The capacity of lumber decking arranged according to the patterns described in Section 2304.9.2 shall be the lesser of the capacities determined for moment and deflection according to the formulas in Table 2306.1.5.
TABLE 2306.1.5—ALLOWABLE LOADS FOR LUMBER DECKING
| PATTERN | ALLOWABLE AREA LOADa | ALLOWABLE AREA LOADa |
|---|---|---|
| PATTERN | Moment | Deflection |
| Simple span | w_b_ 8_Fb_ ′_d_2 _l_26 -------------- = |
wΔ 384Δ_E_′ 5_l_4 ----------------- _d_3 12 ----- = |
| Two-span continuous | w_b_ 8_Fb_ ′_d_2 _l_26 ------------- = |
wΔ 185Δ_E_′ _l_4 ----------------- _d_3 12 ----- = |
| Combination simple- and two-span continuous | w_b_ 8_Fb_ ′_d_2 _l_26 ------------- = |
wΔ 131Δ_E_′ _l_4 ----------------- _d_3 12 ----- = |
| Cantilevered pieces intermixed | w_b_ 20_Fb_ ′_d_2 3_l_26 ---------------- = |
wΔ 105Δ_E_′ _l_4 ----------------- _d_3 12 ----- = |
| Controlled random layup | Controlled random layup | Controlled random layup |
| Mechanically laminated decking | w_b_ 20_Fb_ ′_d_2 3_l_26 ----------------- = |
wΔ 100Δ_E_′ _l_4 ----------------- _d_3 12 ----- = |
| 2-inch decking | w_b_ 20_Fb_ ′_d_2 3_l_26 ----------------- = |
wΔ 100Δ_E_′ _l_4 ----------------- _d_3 12 ----- = |
| 3-inch and 4-inch decking | w_b_ 8_Fb_ ′_d_2 _l_26 -------------- = |
wΔ 116Δ_E_′ _l_4 ----------------- _d_3 12 ----- = |
| For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm. a._ wb_ = Allowable total uniform load limited by moment. _ w_Δ = Allowable total uniform load limited by deflection. _ d_ = Actual decking thickness. _ l_ = Span of decking. _ Fb′_ = Allowable bending stress adjusted by applicable factors. _ E′_ = Modulus of elasticity adjusted by applicable factors. |
23-28 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
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2306.2 Wood-frame diaphragms. ¶
Wood-frame diaphragms shall be designed and constructed in accordance with AWC SDPWS. Where panels are fastened to framing members with staples, requirements and limitations of AWC SDPWS shall be met and the allowable shear values set forth in Table 2306.2(1) or 2306.2(2) shall be permitted. The allowable shear values in Tables 2306.2(1) and 2306.2(2) are permitted to be increased 40 percent for wind design.
diaphragms shall be designed and constructed in accordance with AWC SDPWS. Where panels are fastened to framing members with staples, requirements and limitations of AWC SDPWS shall be met and the allowable shear values set forth in Table 2306.2(1) or 2306.2(2) shall be permitted. The allowable shear values in Tables 2306.2(1) and 2306.2(2) are permitted to be increased 40 percent for wind design.
TABLE 2306.2(1)—ALLOWABLE SHEAR VALUES (POUNDS PER FOOT) FOR WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL DIAPHRAGMS
UTILIZING STAPLES WITH FRAMING OF DOUGLAS FIR-LARCH, OR SOUTHERN PINEa FOR WIND OR SEISMIC LOADINGf
| PANEL GRADE |
STAPLE LENGTH AND GAGEd |
MINIMUM FASTENER PENETRATION IN FRAMING (inches) |
MINIMUM NOMINAL PANEL THICKNESS (inch) |
MINIMUM NOMINAL WIDTH OF FRAMING MEMBERS AT ADJOINING PANEL EDGES AND BOUNDARIESe (inches) |
BLOCKED DIAPHRAGMS | BLOCKED DIAPHRAGMS | BLOCKED DIAPHRAGMS | BLOCKED DIAPHRAGMS | UNBLOCKED DIAPHRAGMS | UNBLOCKED DIAPHRAGMS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PANEL GRADE |
STAPLE LENGTH AND GAGEd |
MINIMUM FASTENER PENETRATION IN FRAMING (inches) |
MINIMUM NOMINAL PANEL THICKNESS (inch) |
MINIMUM NOMINAL WIDTH OF FRAMING MEMBERS AT ADJOINING PANEL EDGES AND BOUNDARIESe (inches) |
Fastener spacing (inches) at diaphragm boundaries (all cases) at continuous panel edges parallel to load (Cases 3, 4), and at all panel edges (Cases 5, 6)b |
Fastener spacing (inches) at diaphragm boundaries (all cases) at continuous panel edges parallel to load (Cases 3, 4), and at all panel edges (Cases 5, 6)b |
Fastener spacing (inches) at diaphragm boundaries (all cases) at continuous panel edges parallel to load (Cases 3, 4), and at all panel edges (Cases 5, 6)b |
Fastener spacing (inches) at diaphragm boundaries (all cases) at continuous panel edges parallel to load (Cases 3, 4), and at all panel edges (Cases 5, 6)b |
Fasteners spaced 6 inches max. at supported edgesb |
Fasteners spaced 6 inches max. at supported edgesb |
| PANEL GRADE |
STAPLE LENGTH AND GAGEd |
MINIMUM FASTENER PENETRATION IN FRAMING (inches) |
MINIMUM NOMINAL PANEL THICKNESS (inch) |
MINIMUM NOMINAL WIDTH OF FRAMING MEMBERS AT ADJOINING PANEL EDGES AND BOUNDARIESe (inches) |
6 | 4 | 21/2 c |
2c | Case 1 (No unblocked edges or continuous joints parallel to load) |
All other configura- tions (Cases 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6)g |
| PANEL GRADE |
STAPLE LENGTH AND GAGEd |
MINIMUM FASTENER PENETRATION IN FRAMING (inches) |
MINIMUM NOMINAL PANEL THICKNESS (inch) |
MINIMUM NOMINAL WIDTH OF FRAMING MEMBERS AT ADJOINING PANEL EDGES AND BOUNDARIESe (inches) |
Fastener spacing (inches) at other panel edges (Cases 1, 2, 3 and 4)b |
Fastener spacing (inches) at other panel edges (Cases 1, 2, 3 and 4)b |
Fastener spacing (inches) at other panel edges (Cases 1, 2, 3 and 4)b |
Fastener spacing (inches) at other panel edges (Cases 1, 2, 3 and 4)b |
Fastener spacing (inches) at other panel edges (Cases 1, 2, 3 and 4)b |
Fastener spacing (inches) at other panel edges (Cases 1, 2, 3 and 4)b |
| PANEL GRADE |
STAPLE LENGTH AND GAGEd |
MINIMUM FASTENER PENETRATION IN FRAMING (inches) |
MINIMUM NOMINAL PANEL THICKNESS (inch) |
MINIMUM NOMINAL WIDTH OF FRAMING MEMBERS AT ADJOINING PANEL EDGES AND BOUNDARIESe (inches) |
6 | 6 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Structural I grades |
11/2 16 gage |
1 | 3/8 | 2 | 175 | 235 | 350 | 400 | 155 | 115 |
| Structural I grades |
11/2 16 gage |
1 | 3/8 | 3 | 200 | 265 | 395 | 450 | 175 | 130 |
| Structural I grades |
11/2 16 gage |
1 | 15/32 | 2 | 175 | 235 | 350 | 400 | 155 | 120 |
| Structural I grades |
11/2 16 gage |
1 | 15/32 | 3 | 200 | 265 | 395 | 450 | 175 | 130 |
| Sheathing, single floor and other grades covered in DOC PS 1 and PS 2 |
11/2 16 gage |
1 | 3/8 | 2 | 160 | 210 | 315 | 360 | 140 | 105 |
| Sheathing, single floor and other grades covered in DOC PS 1 and PS 2 |
11/2 16 gage |
1 | 3/8 | 3 | 180 | 235 | 355 | 400 | 160 | 120 |
| Sheathing, single floor and other grades covered in DOC PS 1 and PS 2 |
11/2 16 gage |
1 | 7/16 | 2 | 165 | 225 | 335 | 380 | 150 | 110 |
| Sheathing, single floor and other grades covered in DOC PS 1 and PS 2 |
11/2 16 gage |
1 | 7/16 | 3 | 190 | 250 | 375 | 425 | 165 | 125 |
| Sheathing, single floor and other grades covered in DOC PS 1 and PS 2 |
11/2 16 gage |
1 | 15/32 | 2 | 160 | 210 | 315 | 360 | 140 | 105 |
| Sheathing, single floor and other grades covered in DOC PS 1 and PS 2 |
11/2 16 gage |
1 | 15/32 | 3 | 180 | 235 | 355 | 405 | 160 | 120 |
| Sheathing, single floor and other grades covered in DOC PS 1 and PS 2 |
11/2 16 gage |
1 | 19/32 | 2 | 175 | 235 | 350 | 400 | 155 | 115 |
| Sheathing, single floor and other grades covered in DOC PS 1 and PS 2 |
11/2 16 gage |
1 | 19/32 | 3 | 200 | 265 | 395 | 450 | 175 | 130 |
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per foot = 14.5939 N/m.
a. For framing of other species: (1) Find specific gravity for species of lumber in ANSI/AWC NDS. (2) For staples find shear value from table for Structural I panels (regardless of
actual grade) and multiply value by 0.82 for species with specific gravity of 0.42 or greater, or 0.65 for all other species.
b. Space fasteners maximum 12 inches on center along intermediate framing members (6 inches on center where supports are spaced 48 inches on center).
c. Framing at adjoining panel edges shall be 3 inches nominal or wider.
d. Staples shall have a minimum crown width of7/16 inch and shall be installed with their crowns parallel to the long dimension of the framing members.
e. The minimum nominal width of framing members not located at boundaries or adjoining panel edges shall be 2 inches.
f. For shear loads of normal or permanent load duration as defined by the ANSI/AWC NDS, the values in the table shall be multiplied by 0.63 or 0.56, respectively.
g. For Case 1 through 6 descriptions see Figure 2306.2(1).
FIGURE 2306.2(1)—CASES 1 THROUGH 6 FOR USE WITH TABLE 2306.2(1)
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
WOOD
TABLE 2306.2(2)—ALLOWABLE SHEAR VALUES (POUNDS PER FOOT) FOR WOOD STRUCTURAL
PANEL BLOCKED DIAPHRAGMS UTILIZING MULTIPLE ROWS OF STAPLES (HIGH-LOAD DIAPHRAGMS)
WITH FRAMING OF DOUGLAS FIR-LARCH OR SOUTHERN PINEa FOR WIND OR SEISMIC LOADINGb, g, h
| PANEL GRADEc |
STAPLE GAGEf |
MINIMUM FASTENER PENETRATION IN FRAMING (inches) |
MINIMUM NOMINAL PANEL THICKNESS (inch) |
MINIMUM NOMI- NAL WIDTH OF FRAMING MEMBER AT ADJOINING PANEL EDGES AND BOUNDARIESe |
LINES OF FASTENERS |
BLOCKED DIAPHRAGMS | BLOCKED DIAPHRAGMS | BLOCKED DIAPHRAGMS | BLOCKED DIAPHRAGMS | BLOCKED DIAPHRAGMS | BLOCKED DIAPHRAGMS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PANEL GRADEc |
STAPLE GAGEf |
MINIMUM FASTENER PENETRATION IN FRAMING (inches) |
MINIMUM NOMINAL PANEL THICKNESS (inch) |
MINIMUM NOMI- NAL WIDTH OF FRAMING MEMBER AT ADJOINING PANEL EDGES AND BOUNDARIESe |
LINES OF FASTENERS |
Cases 1 and 2d | Cases 1 and 2d | Cases 1 and 2d | Cases 1 and 2d | Cases 1 and 2d | Cases 1 and 2d |
| PANEL GRADEc |
STAPLE GAGEf |
MINIMUM FASTENER PENETRATION IN FRAMING (inches) |
MINIMUM NOMINAL PANEL THICKNESS (inch) |
MINIMUM NOMI- NAL WIDTH OF FRAMING MEMBER AT ADJOINING PANEL EDGES AND BOUNDARIESe |
LINES OF FASTENERS |
Fastener Spacing Per Line at Boundaries (inches)i | Fastener Spacing Per Line at Boundaries (inches)i | Fastener Spacing Per Line at Boundaries (inches)i | Fastener Spacing Per Line at Boundaries (inches)i | Fastener Spacing Per Line at Boundaries (inches)i | Fastener Spacing Per Line at Boundaries (inches)i |
| PANEL GRADEc |
STAPLE GAGEf |
MINIMUM FASTENER PENETRATION IN FRAMING (inches) |
MINIMUM NOMINAL PANEL THICKNESS (inch) |
MINIMUM NOMI- NAL WIDTH OF FRAMING MEMBER AT ADJOINING PANEL EDGES AND BOUNDARIESe |
LINES OF FASTENERS |
4 | 4 | 21/2 | 21/2 | 2 | 2 |
| PANEL GRADEc |
STAPLE GAGEf |
MINIMUM FASTENER PENETRATION IN FRAMING (inches) |
MINIMUM NOMINAL PANEL THICKNESS (inch) |
MINIMUM NOMI- NAL WIDTH OF FRAMING MEMBER AT ADJOINING PANEL EDGES AND BOUNDARIESe |
LINES OF FASTENERS |
Fastener Spacing Per Line at Other Panel Edges (inches)i |
Fastener Spacing Per Line at Other Panel Edges (inches)i |
Fastener Spacing Per Line at Other Panel Edges (inches)i |
Fastener Spacing Per Line at Other Panel Edges (inches)i |
Fastener Spacing Per Line at Other Panel Edges (inches)i |
Fastener Spacing Per Line at Other Panel Edges (inches)i |
| PANEL GRADEc |
STAPLE GAGEf |
MINIMUM FASTENER PENETRATION IN FRAMING (inches) |
MINIMUM NOMINAL PANEL THICKNESS (inch) |
MINIMUM NOMI- NAL WIDTH OF FRAMING MEMBER AT ADJOINING PANEL EDGES AND BOUNDARIESe |
LINES OF FASTENERS |
6 | 4 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 2 |
| Structural I grades |
14 gage staples |
2 | 15/32 | 3 | 2 | 600 | 600 | 860 | 960 | 1,060 | 1,200 |
| Structural I grades |
14 gage staples |
2 | 15/32 | 4 | 3 | 860 | 900 | 1,160 | 1,295 | 1,295 | 1,400 |
| Structural I grades |
14 gage staples |
2 | 19/32 | 3 | 2 | 600 | 600 | 875 | 960 | 1,075 | 1,200 |
| Structural I grades |
14 gage staples |
2 | 19/32 | 4 | 3 | 875 | 900 | 1,175 | 1,440 | 1,475 | 1,795 |
| Sheathing single floor and other grades covered in DOC PS 1 and PS 2 |
14 gage staples |
2 | 15/32 | 3 | 2 | 540 | 540 | 735 | 865 | 915 | 1,080 |
| Sheathing single floor and other grades covered in DOC PS 1 and PS 2 |
14 gage staples |
2 | 15/32 | 4 | 3 | 735 | 810 | 1,005 | 1,105 | 1,105 | 1,195 |
| Sheathing single floor and other grades covered in DOC PS 1 and PS 2 |
14 gage staples |
2 | 19/32 | 3 | 2 | 600 | 600 | 865 | 960 | 1,065 | 1,200 |
| Sheathing single floor and other grades covered in DOC PS 1 and PS 2 |
14 gage staples |
2 | 19/32 | 4 | 3 | 865 | 900 | 1,130 | 1,430 | 1,370 | 1,485 |
| Sheathing single floor and other grades covered in DOC PS 1 and PS 2 |
14 gage staples |
2 | 23/32 | 4 | 3 | 865 | 900 | 1,130 | 1,490 | 1,430 | 1,545 |
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per foot = 14.5939 N/m.
a.
For framing of other species: (1) Find specific gravity for species of framing lumber in ANSI/AWC NDS. (2) For staples, find shear value from table for Structural I panels (regard-
less of actual grade) and multiply value by 0.82 for species with specific gravity of 0.42 or greater, or 0.65 for all other species.
b. Fastening along intermediate framing members: Space fasteners not greater than 12 inches on center, except 6 inches on center for spans greater than 32 inches.
c.
Panels conforming to DOC PS 1 or PS 2.
d. This table gives shear values for Cases 1 and 2 as shown in Table 2306.2(1). The values shown are applicable to Cases 3, 4, 5 and 6 as shown in Table 2306.2(1), providing fasten-
ers at all continuous panel edges are spaced in accordance with the boundary fastener spacing.
e.
The minimum nominal depth of framing members shall be 3 inches nominal. The minimum nominal width of framing members not located at boundaries or adjoining panel
edges shall be 2 inches.
f.
Staples shall have a minimum crown width of7/16 inch, and shall be installed with their crowns parallel to the long dimension of the framing members.
g.
High-load diaphragms shall be subject to special inspection in accordance with Section 1705.5.1.
h.
For shear loads of normal or permanent load duration as defined by the ANSI/AWC NDS, the values in the table shall be multiplied by 0.63 or 0.56, respectively.
i.
For fastener spacing diagrams see Figure 2306.2(2).
FIGURE 2306.2(2)—FASTENER SPACING DIAGRAMS FOR USE WITH TABLE 2306.2(2)
PANEL JOINT
3/8″
1 1/4″1/2″
2 1/2″ 3 3/ /8 8″ ″
1 1/4″1/2″
3/8″
TABLE
| 2 1/2~~″~~ | 1 1/4″ |
3/8″ 1/2″ |
3/8″ 1/2″ |
3/8″ 1/2″ |
3/8″ 1/2″ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 1/2~~″~~ | 1 1/4″ |
3/8″ |
3/8″ |
3/8″ |
3/8″ |
| 2 1/2~~″~~ | 1 1/4″ |
3/8″ | 3/8″ | 3/8″ | 3/8″ |
| 2 1/2~~″~~ | 1 1/4″ |
1/2″ | 1/2″ | 1/2″ | 1/2″ |
| 2 1/2~~″~~ | 1 1/4″ |
3/8″ |
3/8″ |
3/8″ |
3/8″ |
| TABLE |
SPACING
3/8″
| 3 1/2 | 1 3/4″ ″ |
1/2″ |
|||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 1/2 | 1 3/4″ ″ |
1/2″ | |||
| 3 1/2 | 1 3/4″ ″ |
3/8″ |
|||
| 3 1/2 | 1 3/4″ |
3/8″ |
|||
| 3 1/2 | 1 3/4″ |
1/2″ | |||
| 3 1/2 | 1 3/4″ |
1/2″ | |||
| 3 1/2 | 1 3/4″ |
3/8″ | |||
SPACING
PANEL JOINT
PANEL EDGE
3 ″ NOMINAL — TWO LINES
4 ″ NOMINAL — TWO LINES
PANEL JOINT
| 2 1/2″ -3 1/2″ | 5-7 EQUAL SPACES | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 1/2″ -3 1/2″ | 5-7 EQUAL SPACES |
|||
| 2 1/2″ -3 1/2″ | 5-7 EQUAL SPACES |
|||
| 2 1/2″ -3 1/2″ | 5-7 EQUAL SPACES |
|||
| TABLE |
1/2″
1 3/4″3/4″
1/2″
3 1/2″
1/2″
1 3/4″3/4″
1/2″
TABLE
| 3 1/2~~″~~ | 1 3/4″ |
1/2″ | 1/2″ | 1/2″ | 1/2″ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 1/2~~″~~ | 1 3/4″ |
3/4″ | |||
| 3 1/2~~″~~ | 1 3/4″ |
1/2″ | |||
| 3 1/2~~″~~ | 1 3/4″ |
1 3/4″ |
|||
| 3 1/2~~″~~ | 1 3/4″ |
3/4″ | |||
| 3 1/2~~″~~ | 1 3/4″ |
1/2″ | |||
SPACING
SPACING
TYPICAL BOUNDARY FASTENING 4 ″ NOMINAL —TWO LINES (Shown is two lines staggered.)
NOTE: SPACE PANEL END AND EDGE JOINT 1/8-INCH. REDUCE SPACING BETWEEN LINES OF NAILS AS NECESSARY TO MAINTAIN MINIMUM 3/8-INCH FASTENER EDGE MARGINS, MINIMUM SPACING BETWEEN LINES IS 3/8 INCH
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
23-30 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
WOOD
2306.2.1 Gypsum board diaphragm ceilings. Gypsum board diaphragm ceilings shall be in accordance with Section 2508.6.
2306.3 Wood-frame shear walls. ¶
Wood-frame shear walls shall be designed and constructed in accordance with AWC SDPWS. Where panels are fastened to framing members with staples, requirements and limitations of AWC SDPWS shall be met and the allowable shear values set forth in Table 2306.3(1), 2306.3(2) or 2306.3(3) shall be permitted. The allowable shear values in Tables 2306.3(1) and 2306.3(2) are permitted to be increased 40 percent for wind design. Panels complying with ANSI/APA PRP-210 shall be permitted to use design values for Plywood Siding in the AWC SDPWS.
aples, requirements and limitations of AWC SDPWS shall be met and the allowable shear values set forth in Table 2306.3(1), 2306.3(2) or 2306.3(3) shall be permitted. The allowable shear values in Tables 2306.3(1) and 2306.3(2) are permitted to be increased 40 percent for wind design. Panels complying with ANSI/APA PRP-210 shall be permitted to use design values for Plywood Siding in the AWC SDPWS.
TABLE 2306.3(1)—ALLOWABLE SHEAR VALUES (POUNDS PER FOOT)
FOR WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL SHEAR WALLS UTILIZING STAPLES WITH FRAMING
OF DOUGLAS FIR-LARCH OR SOUTHERN PINEa FOR WIND OR SEISMIC LOADINGb, f, g, i
| PANEL GRADE |
MINIMUM NOMINAL PANEL THICKNESS (inch) |
MINIMUM FASTENER PENETRATION IN FRAMING (inches) |
PANELS APPLIED DIRECT TO FRAMING | PANELS APPLIED DIRECT TO FRAMING | PANELS APPLIED DIRECT TO FRAMING | PANELS APPLIED DIRECT TO FRAMING | PANELS APPLIED DIRECT TO FRAMING | PANELS APPLIED OVER1/2" OR 5/8" GYPSUM SHEATHING |
PANELS APPLIED OVER1/2" OR 5/8" GYPSUM SHEATHING |
PANELS APPLIED OVER1/2" OR 5/8" GYPSUM SHEATHING |
PANELS APPLIED OVER1/2" OR 5/8" GYPSUM SHEATHING |
PANELS APPLIED OVER1/2" OR 5/8" GYPSUM SHEATHING |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PANEL GRADE |
MINIMUM NOMINAL PANEL THICKNESS (inch) |
MINIMUM FASTENER PENETRATION IN FRAMING (inches) |
Staple length and gageh (inches) |
Fastener spacing at panel edges (inches) |
Fastener spacing at panel edges (inches) |
Fastener spacing at panel edges (inches) |
Fastener spacing at panel edges (inches) |
Staple length and gageh (inches) |
Fastener spacing at panel edges (inches) |
Fastener spacing at panel edges (inches) |
Fastener spacing at panel edges (inches) |
Fastener spacing at panel edges (inches) |
| PANEL GRADE |
MINIMUM NOMINAL PANEL THICKNESS (inch) |
MINIMUM FASTENER PENETRATION IN FRAMING (inches) |
Staple length and gageh (inches) |
6 | 4 | 3 | 2d | 2d | 6 | 4 | 3 | 2d |
| Structural I sheathing |
3/8 | 1 | 11/2 16 Gage |
155 | 235 | 315 | 400 | 2 16 Gage |
155 | 235 | 310 | 400 |
| Structural I sheathing |
7/16 | 7/16 | 7/16 | 170 | 260 | 345 | 440 | 440 | 155 | 235 | 310 | 400 |
| Structural I sheathing |
15/32 | 15/32 | 15/32 | 185 | 280 | 375 | 475 | 475 | 155 | 235 | 300 | 400 |
| Sheathing, plywood sidinge except Group 5 Species, ANSI/APA PRP 210 sidinge |
5/16 c or1/4 c |
1 | 11/2 16 Gage |
145 | 220 | 295 | 375 | 2 16 Gage |
110 | 165 | 220 | 285 |
| Sheathing, plywood sidinge except Group 5 Species, ANSI/APA PRP 210 sidinge |
3/8 | 3/8 | 3/8 | 140 | 210 | 280 | 360 | 360 | 140 | 210 | 280 | 360 |
| Sheathing, plywood sidinge except Group 5 Species, ANSI/APA PRP 210 sidinge |
7/16 | 7/16 | 7/16 | 155 | 230 | 310 | 395 | 395 | 140 | 210 | 280 | 360 |
| Sheathing, plywood sidinge except Group 5 Species, ANSI/APA PRP 210 sidinge |
15/32 | 15/32 | 15/32 | 170 | 255 | 335 | 430 | 430 | 140 | 210 | 280 | 360 |
| Sheathing, plywood sidinge except Group 5 Species, ANSI/APA PRP 210 sidinge |
19/32 | 19/32 | 13/4 16 Gage |
185 | 280 | 375 | 475 | — | — | — | — | — |
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per foot = 14.5939 N/m.
a. For framing of other species: (1) Find specific gravity for species of lumber in ANSI/AWC NDS. (2) For staples find shear value from table for Structural I panels (regardless of
actual grade) and multiply value by 0.82 for species with specific gravity of 0.42 or greater, or 0.65 for all other species.
b. Panel edges backed with 2-inch nominal or wider framing. Install panels either horizontally or vertically. Space fasteners maximum 6 inches on center along intermediate
framing members for3/8-inch and7/16-inch panels installed on studs spaced 24 inches on center. For other conditions and panel thickness, space fasteners maximum 12 inches
on center on intermediate supports.
c. 3/8-inch panel thickness or siding with a span rating of 16 inches on center is the minimum recommended where applied directly to framing as exterior siding. For grooved
panel siding, the nominal panel thickness is the thickness of the panel measured at the point of fastening.
d. Framing at adjoining panel edges shall be 3 inches nominal or wider.
e. Values apply to all-veneer plywood. Thickness at point of fastening on panel edges governs shear values.
f. Where panels are applied on both faces of a wall and fastener spacing is less than 6 inches on center on either side, panel joints shall be offset to fall on different framing
members, or framing shall be 3 inches nominal or thicker at adjoining panel edges.
g. In Seismic Design Category D, E or F, where shear design values exceed 350 pounds per linear foot, all framing members receiving edge fastening from abutting panels shall be
not less than a single 3-inch nominal member, or two 2-inch nominal members fastened together in accordance with Section 2306.1 to transfer the design shear value
between framing members. Wood structural panel joint and sill plate nailing shall be staggered at all panel edges. See AWC SDPWS for sill plate size and anchorage
requirements.
h. Staples shall have a minimum crown width of7/16 inch and shall be installed with their crowns parallel to the long dimension of the framing members.
i. For shear loads of normal or permanent load duration as defined by the ANSI/AWC NDS, the values in the table shall be multiplied by 0.63 or 0.56, respectively.
TABLE 2306.3(2)—ALLOWABLE SHEAR VALUES (plf) FOR WIND OR SEISMIC LOADING ON SHEAR WALLS OF
FIBERBOARD SHEATHING BOARD CONSTRUCTION UTILIZING STAPLES FOR TYPE V CONSTRUCTION ONLYa, b, c, d, e
| THICKNESS AND GRADE (inches) |
STAPLE GAGE AND DIMENSIONS | ALLOWABLE SHEAR VALUE (pounds per linear foot) STAPLE SPACING AT PANEL EDGES (inches)a |
ALLOWABLE SHEAR VALUE (pounds per linear foot) STAPLE SPACING AT PANEL EDGES (inches)a |
ALLOWABLE SHEAR VALUE (pounds per linear foot) STAPLE SPACING AT PANEL EDGES (inches)a |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| THICKNESS AND GRADE (inches) |
STAPLE GAGE AND DIMENSIONS | 4 | 3 | 2 |
| 1/2 or25/32 Structural | No. 16 gage galvanized staple, 7/16″ crown 13/4 inches long |
150 | 200 | 225 |
| 1/2 or25/32 Structural | No. 16 gage galvanized staple, 1″ crown 13/4 inches long |
220 | 290 | 325 |
| For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per foot = 14.5939 N/m. a. Fiberboard sheathing shall not be used to brace concrete or masonry walls. b. Panel edges shall be backed with 2-inch or wider framing of Douglas Fir-larch or Southern pine. For framing of other species: (1) Find specific gravity for species of framing lumber in ANSI/AWC NDS. (2) For staples, multiply the shear value from the table by 0.82 for species with specific gravity of 0.42 or greater, or 0.65 for all other species. c. Values shown are for fiberboard sheathing on one side only with long panel dimension either parallel or perpendicular to studs. d. Fastener shall be spaced 6 inches on center along intermediate framing members. e. Values are not permitted in_Seismic Design Category_ D, E or F. |
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
WOOD
TABLE 2306.3(3)—ALLOWABLE SHEAR VALUES FOR WIND OR SEISMIC FORCES FOR SHEAR WALLS OF LATH
AND PLASTER OR GYPSUM BOARD WOOD FRAMED WALL ASSEMBLIES UTILIZING STAPLES
| TYPE OF MATERIAL | THICKNESS OF MATERIAL |
WALL CONSTRUCTION |
**STAPLE SPACINGb ** MAXIMUM (inches) |
SHEAR VALUEa, c (plf) |
MINIMUM STAPLE SIZEf, g |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Expanded metal or woven wire lath and Portland cement plaster |
7/8″ | Unblocked | 6 | 180 | No. 16 gage galv. staple,7/8″ legs |
| 2. Gypsum lath, plain or perforated |
3/8″ lath and 1/2″ plaster |
Unblocked | 5 | 100 | No. 16 gage galv. staple, 11/8″ long |
| 3. Gypsum sheathing | 1/2″ × 2′ × 8′ | Unblocked | 4 | 75 | No. 16 gage galv. staple, 13/4″ long |
| 3. Gypsum sheathing | 1/2″ ×4′ | Blockedd Unblocked |
4 7 |
175 100 |
175 100 |
| 4. Gypsum board, gypsum veneer base or water-resistant gypsum backing board |
1/2″ | Unblockedd | 7 | 75 | No. 16 gage galv. staple, 11/2″ long |
| 4. Gypsum board, gypsum veneer base or water-resistant gypsum backing board |
1/2″ | Unblockedd | 4 | 110 | 110 |
| 4. Gypsum board, gypsum veneer base or water-resistant gypsum backing board |
1/2″ | Unblocked | 7 | 100 | 100 |
| 4. Gypsum board, gypsum veneer base or water-resistant gypsum backing board |
1/2″ | Unblocked | 4 | 125 | 125 |
| 4. Gypsum board, gypsum veneer base or water-resistant gypsum backing board |
1/2″ | Blockede | 7 | 125 | 125 |
| 4. Gypsum board, gypsum veneer base or water-resistant gypsum backing board |
1/2″ | Blockede | 4 | 150 | 150 |
| 4. Gypsum board, gypsum veneer base or water-resistant gypsum backing board |
5/8″ | Unblockedd | 7 | 115 | No. 16 gage galv. staple, 15/8″ long |
| 4. Gypsum board, gypsum veneer base or water-resistant gypsum backing board |
5/8″ | Unblockedd | 4 | 145 | 145 |
| 4. Gypsum board, gypsum veneer base or water-resistant gypsum backing board |
5/8″ | Blockede | 7 | 145 | 145 |
| 4. Gypsum board, gypsum veneer base or water-resistant gypsum backing board |
5/8″ | Blockede | 4 | 175 | 175 |
| 4. Gypsum board, gypsum veneer base or water-resistant gypsum backing board |
5/8″ | Blockede Two-ply |
Base ply: 9 Face ply: 7 |
250 | No. 16 gage galv. staple 15/8″ long No. 15 gage galv. staple, 21/4″ long |
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per foot = 14.5939 N/m.
a. These shear walls shall not be used to resist loads imposed by masonry or concrete walls (see AWC SDPWS). Values shown are for short-term loading due to wind or seismic
loading. Walls resisting seismic loads shall be subject to the limitations in Section 12.2.1 of ASCE 7. Values shown shall be reduced 25 percent for normal loading.
b. Applies to fastening at studs, top and bottom plates and blocking.
c. Except as noted, shear values are based on a maximum framing spacing of 16 inches on center.
d. Maximum framing spacing of 24 inches on center.
e. All edges are blocked, and edge fastening is provided at all supports and all panel edges.
f. Staples shall have a minimum crown width of7/16 inch, measured outside the legs, and shall be installed with their crowns parallel to the long dimension of the framing
members.
g. Staples for the attachment of gypsum lath and woven-wire lath shall have a minimum crown width of3/4 inch, measured outside the legs.
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Ask AI about this code▸ Contents — 2025 California Building Code (Title 24, Part 2)
- Chapter 1 — ADMINISTRATION
- Chapter 2 — DEFINITIONS
- Chapter 3 — OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION AND USE
- Chapter 4 — SPECIAL DETAILED REQUIREMENTS BASED ON OCCUPANCY A…
- Chapter 5 — GENERAL BUILDING HEIGHTS AND AREAS
- Chapter 6 — TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION
- Chapter 7 — FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES
- Chapter 7A — MATERIALS AND CONSTRUCTION METHODS FOR EXTERIOR W…
- Chapter 8 — INTERIOR FINISHES
- Chapter 9 — FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS
- Chapter 10 — MEANS OF EGRESS
- Chapter 11 — RESERVED
- Chapter 11A — HOUSING ACCESSIBILITY
- Chapter 11B — ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMM…
- Chapter 12 — INTERIOR ENVIRONMENT
- Chapter 13 — ENERGY EFFICIENCY
- Chapter 14 — EXTERIOR WALLS
- Chapter 15 — ROOF ASSEMBLIES AND ROOFTOP STRUCTURES
- Chapter 16 — STRUCTURAL DESIGN
- Chapter 16A — STRUCTURAL DESIGN
- Chapter 17 — SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS
- Chapter 17A — SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS
- Chapter 18 — SOILS AND FOUNDATIONS
- Chapter 18A — SOILS AND FOUNDATIONS
- Chapter 19 — CONCRETE
- Chapter 19A — CONCRETE
- Chapter 20 — ALUMINUM
- Chapter 21 — MASONRY
- Chapter 21A — MASONRY
- Chapter 22 — STEEL
- Chapter 22A — STEEL
-
▸ Chapter 23 — WOOD
Overview- Section 2301 — GENERAL
- Section 2302 — DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
- Section 2303 — MINIMUM STANDARDS AND QUALITY
- Section 2304 — GENERAL CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS
- Section 2305 — GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS FOR LATERAL FORCE-R…
- Section 2306 — ALLOWABLE STRESS DESIGN
- Section 2307 — LOAD AND RESISTANCE FACTOR DESIGN
- Section 2308 — CONVENTIONAL LIGHT-FRAME CONSTRUCTION
- Section 2309 — WOOD FRAME CONSTRUCTION MANUAL
- Chapter 24 — GLASS AND GLAZING
- Chapter 25 — GYPSUM PANEL PRODUCTS AND PLASTER
- Chapter 26 — PLASTIC
- Chapter 27 — ELECTRICAL
- Chapter 28 — MECHANICAL SYSTEMS
- Chapter 29 — PLUMBING SYSTEMS
- Chapter 30 — ELEVATORS AND CONVEYING SYSTEMS
- Chapter 31 — SPECIAL CONSTRUCTION
- Chapter 31A — SYSTEMS FOR WINDOW CLEANING OR EXTERIOR BUILDING…
- Chapter 31B — PUBLIC POOLS
- Chapter 31C — RADIATION
- Chapter 31D — FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS
- Chapter 31F — MARINE OIL TERMINALS
- Chapter 32 — ENCROACHMENTS INTO THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY
- Chapter 33 — SAFEGUARDS DURING CONSTRUCTION
- Chapter 34 — RESERVED
- Chapter 35 — REFERENCED STANDARDS
- Appendix A — EMPLOYEE QUALIFICATIONS
- Appendix B — BOARD OF APPEALS
- Appendix C — GROUP U—AGRICULTURAL BUILDINGS
- Appendix D — FIRE DISTRICTS
- Appendix E — RESERVED
- Appendix F — RODENTPROOFING
- Appendix G — FLOOD-RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION
- Appendix H — SIGNS
- Appendix I — PATIO COVERS
- Appendix J — GRADING
- Appendix K — GROUP R-3 AND GROUP R-3.1 OCCUPANCIES PROTECTED B…
- Appendix L — EARTHQUAKE RECORDING INSTRUMENTATION
- Appendix M — TSUNAMI-GENERATED FLOOD HAZARDS
- Appendix N — REPLICABLE BUILDINGS
- Appendix O — PERFORMANCE-BASED APPLICATION
- Appendix P — SLEEPING LOFTS
- Appendix Q — EMERGENCY HOUSING