CBC · California Building Code
Cladding Materials & Installation
This hub summarizes the CBC Chapter 14 requirements for cladding materials, their performance and the installation rules (flashing, fastening, special systems and combustible limits).
Last reviewed: July 5, 2026
Overview
This hub covers California Building Code requirements for exterior cladding — what materials are permitted, performance (weather‑ and fire‑resistance), and how cladding assemblies must be constructed and fastened. These requirements are found in Chapter 14 (Exterior Walls), including the performance rules in §1402, material standards in §1403, and the installation rules in §1404 . Chapter 14 sets the baseline for water‑resistive barriers, flashing and drainage that an exterior wall assembly must provide to prevent moisture intrusion (§1402 and §1404) .
Installation details cover fastening, flashing and special conditions such as attachment over foam sheathing (see §1404.5 and the cladding‑fastener tables for direct attachment over foam), and require compliance with manufacturer instructions or an approved design where provided . The code also limits combustible exterior coverings and sets tests and area/height limits under §1405, and contains dedicated sections for common systems — Metal Composite Material (MCM) §1406, EIFS §1407, HPL §1408 and Insulated Metal Panels §1409 — each with material, weathering, structural and fire clauses .
In this section
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CBC § 0.125 High relevance — show source text
The wall assembly used as the test specimen shall include the structural support elements and any sheathing, weather barrier and cladding attached to the exterior surface of the structural support elements. 5. Layered materials. For wall assemblies composed of layered materials, such as sheathing, siding (cladding) and underlayment, the installation of such layered materials shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, or in the absence of such instructions, applicable building code requirements. In the absence of manufacturer’s specifications, the wall assembly shall include the following minimum components: nominal 2 x 4 studs spaced 16 inches (410 mm) on center, and the desired exterior siding material. If sheathing is used, tests shall be run on typical [7] / 16 -inch (11 mm) oriented strandboard (OSB) of Exposure 1 rating. Where specified by the manufacturer, sheathing material and installation shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. The sheathing shall have one vertical seam on a selected stud with a 0.125 inch (3 mm) gap. 6. Edge protection. Protect the vertical and horizontal edges of the test specimen with 12-mm-thick ceramic wool blanket (or equivalent) to eliminate the gap between the holder and the test specimen and prevent unwanted edge effects caused by heat transfer to the edges of the test specimen through the sample holder. 7. Replicates. Three matched test specimen assemblies shall be tested. 8. Pre-test conditioning of test specimens. The completed test specimens are to be stored indoors at temperatures not lower than 60°F (16°C) nor higher than 90°F (32°C) for the period of time necessary to cure or condition the assembly components. Test specimens are to be stored so that each will be surrounded by freely circulating air. Pieces of any hygroscopic materials from the same stock from which the test specimen was constructed shall be tacked to the specimen during construction in such a manner that they are easily removed. These pieces shall be conditioned with the completed specimens. Prior to testing, the pieces of hygroscopic materials shall be tested for moisture content. 8.1. Make the moisture determination on two samples from each piece and report the average. For lumber and other wood-based materials, use Test Methods D 4442. Use of an appropriately calibrated moisture meter, as described in Test Methods D 4444, to determine the moisture content of wood or wood products is also permitted. For other hygroscopic materials, use test methods appropriate for those materials. 8.2. For lumber used in the construction of the supporting wall structure, the moisture content shall not be more than 12 percent. For wood sheathing, the moisture content shall not exceed 8 percent. For other hygroscopic materials, the moisture shall be within ranges specified by the manufacturer before the assembly is constructed. These specified ranges shall be typical for exposure at 77 ± 9°F [25 ± 5°C] and 55 ± 10% relative humidity.
12-7A-1.8 Weathering. Weathering of materials shall be in accordance with California Building Code Section 703A Standards of Quality.
12-7A-1.9 Conduct of tests.
- Test room environment. The ambient temperature in the test room shall be above 60°F (15°C) and the relative humidity shall be less than 75 percent. The test room shall be draft-protected and equipped with an exhaust hood system for removal of products of combustion during testing.
- **Airflow.
CBC § 1404.4.3 High relevance — show source text
1404.4.3 Masonry. Flashing and weep holes in anchored veneer designed in accordance with Section 1404.7 shall be located not more than 10 inches (245 mm) above finished ground level above the foundation wall or slab. At other points of support including structural floors, shelf angles and lintels, flashing and weep holes shall be located in the first course of masonry above the support.
14-8 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
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EXTERIOR WALLS
[BS] 1404.5 Fastening. Exterior wall coverings shall be securely fastened with corrosion-resistant fasteners in accordance with this code or the approved manufacturer’s instructions. Fastening of claddings or furring through foam plastic insulating sheathing shall comply with Section 1404.5.1, 1404.5.2 or 1404.5.3, as applicable.
[BS] 1404.5.1 Cladding attachment over foam sheathing to masonry or concrete wall construction. Cladding shall be specified and installed in accordance with this chapter and the cladding manufacturer’s installation instructions or an approved design. Foam sheathing shall be attached to masonry or concrete construction in accordance with the insulation manufacturer’s installation instructions or an approved design. Furring and furring attachments through foam sheathing shall be designed to resist design loads determined in accordance with Chapter 16, including support of cladding weight as applicable. Fasteners used to attach cladding or furring through foam sheathing to masonry or concrete substrates shall be approved for application into masonry or concrete material and shall be installed in accordance with the fastener manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Exceptions:
- Where the cladding manufacturer has provided approved installation instructions for application over foam sheathing and connection to a masonry or concrete substrate, those requirements shall apply.
- For exterior insulation and finish systems, refer to Section 1407.
- For anchored masonry or stone veneer installed over foam sheathing, refer to Section 1404.
[BS] 1404.5.2 Cladding attachment over foam sheathing to cold-formed steel framing. Cladding shall be specified and installed in accordance with this chapter and the cladding manufacturer’s approved installation instructions, including any limitations for use over foam plastic sheathing, or an approved design. Where used, furring and furring attachments shall be designed to resist design loads determined in accordance with Chapter 16. In addition, the cladding or furring attachments through foam sheathing to cold-formed steel framing shall meet or exceed the minimum fastening requirements of Sections 1404.5.2.1 and 1404.5.2.2, or an approved design for support of cladding weight.
Exceptions:
- Where the cladding manufacturer has provided approved installation instructions for application over foam sheathing, those requirements shall apply.
- For exterior insulation and finish systems, refer to Section 1407.
- For anchored masonry or stone veneer installed over foam sheathing, refer to Section 1404.
[BS] 1404.5.2.1 Direct attachment. Where cladding is installed directly over foam sheathing without the use of furring, cladding minimum fastening requirements to support the cladding weight shall be as specified in Table 1404.5.2.1.
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|[BS] TABLE 1404.5.2.1—CLADDING MINIMUM FASTENING REQUIREMENTS FOR
DIRECT ATTACHMENT OVER FOAMCBC § 2.5 High relevance — show source text
b**| |4|Vented cladding over wood structural panels
Vented cladding over fiberboard
Vented cladding over gypsum
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ R-2.5 over 2 × 4 wall
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ R-3.75 over 2 × 6 wall| |5|Vented cladding over wood structural panels
Vented cladding over fiberboard
Vented cladding over gypsum
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ R-5 over 2 × 4 wall
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ R-7.5 over 2 × 6 wall| |6|Vented cladding over fiberboard
Vented cladding over gypsum
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ R-7.5 over 2 × 4 wall
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ R-11.25 over 2 × 6 wall| |7|Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ R-10 over 2 × 4 wall
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ R-15 over 2 × 6 wall| |8|Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ R-12.5 over 2 × 4 wall
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ R-20 over 2 × 6 wall| |a. Vented cladding shall include vinyl lap siding, polypropylene, horizontal aluminum siding, brick veneer with airspace as specified in this code, rainscreen systems and other
approved vented claddings.
b. The requirements in this table apply only to insulation used to control moisture in order to permit the use of Class III vapor retarders. The insulation materials used to satisfy
this option also contribute to but do not supersede the building thermal envelope requirements of the_California Energy Code_.|a. Vented cladding shall include vinyl lap siding, polypropylene, horizontal aluminum siding, brick veneer with airspace as specified in this code, rainscreen systems and other
approved vented claddings.
b. The requirements in this table apply only to insulation used to control moisture in order to permit the use of Class III vapor retarders. The insulation materials used to satisfy
this option also contribute to but do not supersede the building thermal envelope requirements of the_California Energy Code_.|2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 14-7
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TABLE 1404.3(4)—CONTINUOUS INSULATION WITH A CLASS I OR II RESPONSIVE VAPOR RETARDER Col2 CLIMATE ZONE PERMITTED CONDITIONSa 3 Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ R-2 4, 5, 6 Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ R-3 over 2 × 4 wall
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ R-5 over 2 × 6 wall7 Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ R-5 over 2 × 4 wall
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ R-7.5 over 2 × 6 wall8 Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ R-7.5 over 2 × 4 wall
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ R-10 over 2 × 6 walla. The requirements in this table apply only to insulation used to control moisture in order to permit the use of Class I or II vapor retarders. CBC § 1404.19 High relevance — show source text
[BS] 1404.19 Fiber-mat reinforced cementitious backer units. Fiber-mat reinforced cementitious backer units shall be permitted on exterior walls and shall meet the requirements of Section 1404.19.1.
[BS] 1404.19.1 Installation. Installation of fiber-mat reinforced cementitious backer units used as an exterior substrate for the application of exterior finish materials shall be in accordance with backer unit manufacturer’s installation instructions. Panels shall be installed using corrosion-resistant fasteners. Finish materials shall be installed in accordance with approved finish material manufacturer’s instructions.
SECTION 1405—COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS ON THE EXTERIOR SIDE OF EXTERIOR WALLS
1405.1 Combustible exterior wall coverings. Combustible exterior wall coverings shall comply with this section.
Exception: Plastics complying with Chapter 26.
1405.1.1 Types I, II, III and IV-HT construction. On buildings of Types I, II, III and IV-HT construction, exterior wall coverings shall be permitted to be constructed of combustible materials, complying with the following limitations:
- Combustible exterior wall coverings shall not exceed 10 percent of an exterior wall surface area where the fire separation distance is 5 feet (1524 mm) or less.
- Combustible exterior wall coverings shall be limited to 40 feet (12 192 mm) in height above grade plane. Exceptions:
- Metal composite material (MCM) systems complying with Section 1406.
- Exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) complying with Section 1407.
- High-pressure decorative exterior-grade compact laminate (HPL) systems complying with Section 1408.
- Exterior wall coverings containing foam plastic insulation complying with Section 2603.
- Combustible exterior wall coverings constructed of fire-retardant-treated wood complying with Section 2303.2 for exterior installation shall not be limited in wall surface area where the fire separation distance is 5 feet (1524 mm) or less and shall be permitted up to 60 feet (18 288 mm) in height above grade plane regardless of the fire separation distance.
- Wood veneers shall comply with Section 1404.6.
1405.1.1.1 Ignition resistance. Where permitted by Section 1405.1.1, combustible exterior wall coverings shall be tested in accordance with NFPA 268.
Exceptions:
- Wood or wood-based products.
- Other combustible materials covered with an exterior weather covering, other than vinyl sidings, included in and complying with the thickness requirements of Table 1404.2.
- Aluminum having a minimum thickness of 0.019 inch (0.48 mm).
1405.1.1.1.1 Fire separation 5 feet or less. Where installed on exterior walls having a fire separation distance of 5 feet (1524 mm) or less, combustible exterior wall coverings shall not exhibit sustained flaming as defined in NFPA 268.
CBC § 1406.4 High relevance — show source text
[BS] 1406.4 Structural design. MCM systems shall be designed and constructed to resist wind loads as required by Chapter 16 for components and cladding.
1406.5 Approval. Results of approved tests or an engineering analysis shall be submitted to the building official to verify compliance with the requirements of Chapter 16 for wind loads.
1406.6 Weather resistance. MCM systems shall comply with Section 1402 and shall be designed and constructed to resist wind and rain in accordance with this section and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
1406.7 Durability. MCM systems shall be constructed of approved materials that maintain the performance characteristics required in Section 1406 for the duration of use.
1406.8 Fire-resistance rating. Where MCM systems are used on exterior walls required to have a fire-resistance rating in accordance with Section 705, evidence shall be submitted to the building official that the required fire-resistance rating is maintained.
Exception: MCM systems that are part of an exterior wall assembly not containing foam plastic insulation and are installed on the outer surface of a fire-resistance-rated exterior wall in a manner such that the attachments do not penetrate through the entire exterior wall assembly, shall not be required to comply with this section.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 14-17
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EXTERIOR WALLS
1406.9 Surface-burning characteristics. Unless otherwise specified, MCM shall have a flame spread index of 75 or less and a smokedeveloped index of 450 or less when tested in the maximum thickness intended for use in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.
1406.10 Types I, II, III and IV construction. Where installed on buildings of Types I, II, III and IV construction, metal composite material (MCM) shall comply with Sections 1406.10.1 and 1406.10.2 for installations up to 40 feet (12 192 mm) above grade plane. Where installed on buildings of Type I, II, III and IV construction, MCMs and MCM systems shall comply with Sections 1406.10.1 through 1406.10.3, for installations greater than 40 feet (12 192 mm) above grade plane.
1406.10.1 Surface-burning characteristics. MCM shall have a flame spread index of not more than 25 and a smoke-developed index of not more than 450 when tested in the maximum thickness intended for use in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.
1406.10.2 Thermal barriers. MCM shall be separated from the interior of a building by an approved thermal barrier consisting of 1 / 2 -inch (12.7 mm) gypsum wallboard or material that is tested in accordance with and meets the acceptance criteria of both the Temperature Transmission Fire Test and the Integrity Fire Test of NFPA 275.
Exceptions:
The MCM system is specifically approved based on tests conducted in accordance with NFPA 286 and with the acceptance criteria of Section 803.1.1.1, UL 1040 or UL 1715. Such testing shall be performed with the MCM in the maximum thickness intended for use. The MCM system shall include seams, joints and other typical details used in the installation and shall be tested in the manner intended for use.
The MCM is used as elements of balconies and similar projections, architectural trim or embellishments.
CBC § 1404.5.2 High relevance — show source text
Exceptions:
- Where the cladding manufacturer has provided approved installation instructions for application over foam sheathing and connection to a masonry or concrete substrate, those requirements shall apply.
- For exterior insulation and finish systems, refer to Section 1407.
- For anchored masonry or stone veneer installed over foam sheathing, refer to Section 1404.
[BS] 1404.5.2 Cladding attachment over foam sheathing to cold-formed steel framing. Cladding shall be specified and installed in accordance with this chapter and the cladding manufacturer’s approved installation instructions, including any limitations for use over foam plastic sheathing, or an approved design. Where used, furring and furring attachments shall be designed to resist design loads determined in accordance with Chapter 16. In addition, the cladding or furring attachments through foam sheathing to cold-formed steel framing shall meet or exceed the minimum fastening requirements of Sections 1404.5.2.1 and 1404.5.2.2, or an approved design for support of cladding weight.
Exceptions:
- Where the cladding manufacturer has provided approved installation instructions for application over foam sheathing, those requirements shall apply.
- For exterior insulation and finish systems, refer to Section 1407.
- For anchored masonry or stone veneer installed over foam sheathing, refer to Section 1404.
[BS] 1404.5.2.1 Direct attachment. Where cladding is installed directly over foam sheathing without the use of furring, cladding minimum fastening requirements to support the cladding weight shall be as specified in Table 1404.5.2.1.
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[BS] TABLE 1404.5.2.1—CLADDING MINIMUM FASTENING REQUIREMENTS FOR
DIRECT ATTACHMENT OVER FOAM PLASTIC SHEATHING TO SUPPORT CLADDING WEIGHTaCol2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6 Col7 Col8 Col9 Col10 Col11 CLADDING FASTENER THROUGH
FOAM SHEATHING INTO:CLADDING FASTENER TYPE
AND MINIMUM SIZEbCLADDING
FASTENER
VERTICAL
SPACING
(inches)MAXIMUM THICKNESS OF FOAM SHEATHINGc (inches) MAXIMUM THICKNESS OF FOAM SHEATHINGc (inches) MAXIMUM THICKNESS OF FOAM SHEATHINGc (inches) MAXIMUM THICKNESS OF FOAM SHEATHINGc (inches) MAXIMUM THICKNESS OF FOAM SHEATHINGc (inches) MAXIMUM THICKNESS OF FOAM SHEATHINGc (inches) MAXIMUM THICKNESS OF FOAM SHEATHINGc (inches) MAXIMUM THICKNESS OF FOAM SHEATHINGc (inches) CLADDING FASTENER THROUGH
FOAM SHEATHING INTO:CLADDING FASTENER TYPE
AND MINIMUM SIZEbCLADDING
FASTENER
VERTICAL
SPACING
(inches)16″ o.c. fastener
horizontal spacing16″ o.c. fastener
horizontal spacing**16″ o.c. CBC § 14-3 High relevance — show source text
1402 Performance Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-3
1403 Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-4
1404 Installation of Wall Coverings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-5
1405 Combustible Materials on the Exterior Side of
Exterior Walls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-16
1406 Metal Composite Material (MCM). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-17
1407 Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS). . . . 14-18
1408 High-Pressure Decorative Exterior-Grade Compact Laminates (HPL). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-18
1409 Insulated Metal Panel (IMP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-19
1410 Plastic Composite Decking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-21 1411 Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) Systems for Exterior Wall Coverings and Fenestration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-21
1412 Soffits and Fascias at Roof Overhangs . . . . . . . . . . 14-21
1413 [DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC, OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] Additional Requirements for Anchored and Adhered Veneer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-23
CHAPTER 15 ROOF ASSEMBLIES AND ROOFTOP
STRUCTURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-1
1501 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-3
1502 Roof Drainage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-3
1503 Weather Protection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-3
1504 Performance Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-3
1505 Fire Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-5
1506 Materials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-6
1507 Requirements for Roof Coverings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15-7
CBC § 1405.1.3 High relevance — show source text
1405.1.3 Fireblocking. Where the combustible exterior wall covering is furred out from the exterior wall and forms a solid surface, the distance between the back of the exterior wall covering and the exterior wall shall not exceed 1 [5] / 8 inches (41 mm). The concealed space thereby created shall be fireblocked in accordance with Section 718. Exception: The distance between the back of the exterior wall covering and the exterior wall shall be permitted to exceed 1 [5] / 8 inches (41 mm) where the concealed space is not required to be fireblocked by Section 718.
SECTION 1406—METAL COMPOSITE MATERIAL (MCM)
1406.1 General. The provisions of this section shall govern the materials, construction and quality of metal composite material (MCM) for use as exterior wall coverings in addition to other applicable requirements of Chapters 14 and 16.
1406.2 Exterior wall covering. MCM used as exterior wall covering or as elements of balconies and similar projections and bay and oriel windows to provide cladding or weather resistance shall comply with Sections 1406.4 through 1406.13.
1406.3 Architectural trim and embellishments. MCM used as architectural trim or embellishments shall comply with Sections 1406.7 through 1406.13.
[BS] 1406.4 Structural design. MCM systems shall be designed and constructed to resist wind loads as required by Chapter 16 for components and cladding.
1406.5 Approval. Results of approved tests or an engineering analysis shall be submitted to the building official to verify compliance with the requirements of Chapter 16 for wind loads.
1406.6 Weather resistance. MCM systems shall comply with Section 1402 and shall be designed and constructed to resist wind and rain in accordance with this section and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
1406.7 Durability. MCM systems shall be constructed of approved materials that maintain the performance characteristics required in Section 1406 for the duration of use.
1406.8 Fire-resistance rating. Where MCM systems are used on exterior walls required to have a fire-resistance rating in accordance with Section 705, evidence shall be submitted to the building official that the required fire-resistance rating is maintained.
Exception: MCM systems that are part of an exterior wall assembly not containing foam plastic insulation and are installed on the outer surface of a fire-resistance-rated exterior wall in a manner such that the attachments do not penetrate through the entire exterior wall assembly, shall not be required to comply with this section.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 14-17
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EXTERIOR WALLS
1406.9 Surface-burning characteristics. Unless otherwise specified, MCM shall have a flame spread index of 75 or less and a smokedeveloped index of 450 or less when tested in the maximum thickness intended for use in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.
CBC § 2.85 High relevance — show source text
8
Screw|Steel thickness
+ 3 threads|24|2.85|DR|DR|DR|DR|2.20|DR|DR|DR|DR| |Minimum
33-mil
steel
furring or
minimum
1× wood
furringc|43-mil or
thicker
steel stud|No. 10
screw|Steel thickness
+ 3 threads|12|4.00|3.85|3.25|2.80|1.80|4.00|3.05|2.15|1.50|DR| |Minimum
33-mil
steel
furring or
minimum
1× wood
furringc|43-mil or
thicker
steel stud|No. 10
screw|Steel thickness
+ 3 threads|16|4.00|3.30|2.55|1.95|0.60|4.00|2.25|1.05|DR|DR| |Minimum
33-mil
steel
furring or
minimum
1× wood
furringc|43-mil or
thicker
steel stud|No. 10
screw|Steel thickness
+ 3 threads|24|4.00|2.25|1.05|DR|DR|4.00|0.65|DR|DR|DR|2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE 7-31
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WALL COVERING
R703.17 Cladding attachment over foam sheathing to masonry or concrete wall construction. Cladding shall be specified and installed in accordance with Section R703.3 and the cladding manufacturer’s instructions or an approved design. Foam sheathing shall be attached to masonry or concrete construction in accordance with the insulation manufacturer’s installation instructions or an approved design. Furring and furring attachments through foam sheathing into concrete or masonry substrate shall be designed to resist design loads determined in accordance with Section R301, including support of cladding weight as applicable. Fasteners used to attach cladding or furring through foam sheathing to masonry or concrete substrates shall be approved for application into masonry or concrete material and shall be installed in accordance with the fastener manufacturer’s instructions.
Exceptions:
- Where the cladding manufacturer has provided approved installation instructions for application over foam sheathing and connection to a masonry or concrete substrate, those requirements shall apply.
- For exterior insulation and finish systems, refer to Section R703.9.
- For anchored masonry or stone veneer installed over foam sheathing, refer to Section R703.8.
R703.18 Fiber-mat reinforced cementitious backer units. Fiber-mat reinforced cementitious backer units used on exterior walls as a substrate for the application of exterior finish materials shall comply with ASTM C1325. Installation shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Backer units shall be installed using corrosion-resistant fasteners. Finish materials shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
SECTION R704 —EXTERIOR SOFFITS AND FASCIAS
CBC § 7.2 High relevance — show source text
7|||||||||||||||||||||||| |Table R702.7 (3)||||†|||||||||||||||||||| |R702.7.2||||||||||||||||||||X|||| |Table_R702.7.3_||||||||||||||||||||X||||
The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: †
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7-2 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE
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7 WALL COVERING
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 7 establishes the various types of materials, materials standards and methods of application permitted as interior and exterior wall coverings. Interior coverings include interior plaster, gypsum board, ceramic tile, wood veneer paneling, hardboard paneling, wood shakes and wood shingles. Exterior wall coverings regulated by this section include aluminum, stone and masonry veneer, wood, hardboard, particleboard, wood structural panel siding, wood shakes and shingles, exterior plaster, steel, vinyl, fiber cement and exterior insulation finish systems. This chapter also contains requirements for the use of vapor retarders for moisture control in walls; wind resistance and water-resistive barriers for exterior wall coverings; and the water-resistive barrier required beneath exterior materials.
SECTION R701—GENERAL
R701.1 Application. The provisions of this chapter shall control the design and construction of the interior and exterior wall covering for buildings.
R701.2 Installation. Products sensitive to adverse weather shall not be installed until adequate weather protection for the installation is provided. Exterior sheathing shall be dry before applying exterior cover.
SECTION R702—INTERIOR COVERING
R702.1 General. Interior coverings or wall finishes shall be installed in accordance with this chapter and Tables R702.1(1), R702.1(2), R702.1(3) and R702.3.5. Interior masonry veneer shall comply with the requirements of Section R703.7.1 for support and Section R703.7.4 for anchorage, except an airspace is not required. Interior finishes and materials shall conform to the flame spread and smoke-development requirements of Section R302.9.
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TABLE R702.1(1)—THICKNESS OF PLASTER Col2 Col3 ** PLASTER BASE** ** FINISHED THICKNESS OF PLASTER FROM FACE OF LATH, MASONRY, CONCRETE**
(inches)** FINISHED THICKNESS OF PLASTER FROM FACE OF LATH, MASONRY, CONCRETE**
(inches)** PLASTER BASE** ** Gypsum Plaster** ** Cement Plaster** Expanded metal lath 5/8, minimuma 5/8, minimuma Wire lath 5/8, minimuma 3/4, minimum (interior)b Wire lath 5/8, minimuma 7/8, minimum (exterior)b Gypsum lathg 1/2, minimum 3/4, minimum (interior)b Masonry wallsc 1/2, minimum 1/2, minimum Monolithic concrete wallsc, d 5/8, maximum 7/8, maximum Monolithic concrete ceilingsc, d 3/8, CBC § 1.2 High relevance — show source text
1_||X||||||||||||||||||||||| |1403|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1404|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1404.1.2||||||||X|X|X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |1404.3.3|||||||||||||||||||||X|||| |1405|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1406|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1407|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1408|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1411|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1412|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |1413||||||||X|X|X|X|X||X|X||||||||||
The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
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on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
14-2 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
14 EXTERIOR WALLS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 14 addresses requirements for exterior walls of buildings. Minimum standards for wall covering materials, such as material performance and fire resistance, installation of wall coverings and the ability of the wall to provide weather protection are provided. This chapter also contains limitations on the areas and heights of combustible wall coverings based on fire separation distances, radiant heat exposure and surface burning characteristics.
ICC code development note: Code change proposals to sections preceded by the designation [BS] will be considered by the IBC—Structural Code Development
Committee during the 2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.
SECTION 1401—GENERAL
1401.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall establish the minimum requirements for exterior walls, exterior wall assemblies, exterior wall coverings, exterior wall openings, exterior windows and doors, exterior soffits and fascias, and architectural trim.
SECTION 1402—PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
1402.1 General. The provisions of this section shall apply to exterior walls, exterior wall coverings and components thereof.
1402.2 Weather protection. Buildings shall be provided with a weather-resistant exterior wall assembly. The exterior wall assembly shall include flashing, as described in Section 1404.4. The exterior wall assembly shall be designed and constructed in such a manner as to prevent the accumulation of water within the exterior wall assembly by providing a water-resistive barrier behind the exterior veneer, as described in Section 1403.2, and a means for draining water that enters the assembly to the exterior. Protection against condensation in the exterior wall assembly shall be provided in accordance with Section 1404.3.
Exceptions:
- A weather-resistant exterior wall assembly shall not be required over concrete or masonry walls designed in accordance with Chapters 19 and 21, respectively.
- Compliance with the requirements for a means of drainage, and the requirements of Sections 1403.2 and 1404.4, shall not be required for an exterior wall assembly that has been demonstrated through testing to resist wind-driven rain, including joints, penetrations and intersections with dissimilar materials, in accordance with ASTM E331 under the following conditions:
CBC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text
agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 Col17 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS SS/CC 1 1R 2 3 4 5 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 Adopt entire chapter X X X X X Adopt entire chapter as
amended (amended sections
listed below)X X X X X X X Adopt only those sections
that are listed belowX X X Chapter / Section 1401 X 1402 X 1402.2.1 X 1403 X 1404 X 1404.1.2 X X X X X X X 1404.3.3 X 1405 X 1406 X 1407 X 1408 X 1411 X 1412 X 1413 X X X X X X X The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 14-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
14-2 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
14 EXTERIOR WALLS
User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 14 addresses requirements for exterior walls of buildings. Minimum standards for wall covering materials, such as material performance and fire resistance, installation of wall coverings and the ability of the wall to provide weather protection are provided. This chapter also contains limitations on the areas and heights of combustible wall coverings based on fire separation distances, radiant heat exposure and surface burning characteristics.
Frequently asked questions
Which CBC sections set the core cladding performance and weather‑resistance rules?
Chapter 14 is the place to start: §1402 establishes weather‑resistant exterior wall assembly requirements, §1403 addresses materials and standards, and §1404 governs installation (flashing, drainage and fastening) .
Are combustible claddings limited by area or height?
Yes — §1405 limits combustible exterior wall coverings (including area and height restrictions and ignition testing requirements) and includes exceptions for specified systems like MCM, EIFS and HPL when they meet their respective sections .
Must I follow manufacturer installation instructions?
Generally yes: the code repeatedly requires cladding and system installation be in accordance with the chapter provisions and the cladding or insulation manufacturer’s approved installation instructions or an approved design; where manufacturer instructions exist they govern details such as attachment over foam sheathing and EIFS installation (§1404.5, §1407) .
More in California Building Code
- Administration & Permits
- Energy Efficiency
- Existing Buildings
- Occupancy Classification & Use
- Hazardous Materials & Occupancies
- Types of Construction
- Fire-Resistance & Fire Safety
- Interior Finishes
- Means of Egress
- Accessibility
- Exterior Walls
- Roofing & Roof Assemblies
- Structural Design
- Special Inspections & Tests
- Foundations & Soils
- Concrete
- Masonry
- Steel
- Wood
- Elevators & Conveying Systems
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