CBC · California Building Code

What are installation and fastening requirements for common wall coverings?

For homeowners: California’s Building Code requires exterior wall coverings to be thick enough (see Table 1404.2), to be fastened with corrosion‑resistant fasteners, and to follow manufacturer or code‑specified fastener sizes and spacing — special rules apply when attaching through foam sheathing. I relied on § 1404 and § 1404.2 (and related fastening rules in § 1404.5 and product subsections like § 1404.18) from the CBC; § 1404.11 was not present in the retrieved files, so I could not summarize it.

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires

Exterior wall coverings must provide weather protection and be installed to the minimum material thicknesses listed in Table 1404.2. Fasteners must be corrosion‑resistant and installed in accordance with this chapter or the cladding manufacturer’s approved instructions; special rules apply where cladding or furring are attached through foam plastic insulating sheathing. These requirements are stated in § 1404 (general), § 1404.2 (weather protection / minimum thickness) and the fastening rules in § 1404.5 and the cladding‑over‑foam subsections. § 1404 and § 1404.2 set the basic obligations and Table 1404.2 lists minimum nominal thicknesses for many covering types.

Note: the text of § 1404.11 was not present in the file excerpts retrieved for this task, so I cannot quote or summarize § 1404.11 directly from the provided files. If you want that specific subsection cited verbatim or relied on, please upload or point me to the text for § 1404.11.

Requirements in detail

A — Weather protection and minimum material thickness

The exterior wall assembly must provide weather protection; the code lists minimum nominal thicknesses for many coverings in Table 1404.2. Use the Table to verify whether a chosen covering meets the minimum thickness for “approved weather coverings.” (§ 1404.2)

Covering type (common)	Minimum thickness (in.) — decision value	Code reference
Adhered masonry veneer	0.25	§ 1404.2
Fiber cement lap or panel siding	0.25	§ 1404.2, Table 1404.2
Polypropylene siding (see special limits)	See § 1404.18 (installation limits)	§ 1404.2; § 1404.18.1
Steel (corrosion‑resistant)	0.0149	§ 1404.2, Table 1404.2
Fiber‑mat reinforced cementitious backer units	0.5	§ 1404.2, Table 1404.2; § 1404.19.1 (installation)

(Use Table 1404.2 to look up other covering types.)

B — Fasteners: corrosion resistance, manufacturer instructions, and general rule

Exterior wall coverings must be securely fastened with corrosion‑resistant fasteners in accordance with the code or the approved manufacturer’s instructions. Where manufacturer instructions exist for an approved product, those instructions govern installation details. (§ 1404.5)

C — Attachments through foam plastic insulating sheathing

When cladding or furring are installed over foam plastic insulating sheathing, special rules apply: cladding/furring attachments through foam to masonry/concrete, cold‑formed steel framing, or wood framing must comply with § 1404.5.1, § 1404.5.2 or § 1404.5.3 respectively. These subsections (and their tables) establish minimum fastener types, sizes, spacing and required penetration or design‑required (DR) solutions. (§ 1404.5.1–.3 and Tables 1404.5.2.1 / 1404.5.3.1)
The cladding fastener tables indicate, by substrate and cladding weight, minimum fastener diameter/type, vertical spacing and maximum permitted foam thickness for direct attachment. Where the table gives “DR” (Design Required) the installer or design professional must supply calculations or an approved design. (§ 1404.5.2.1 and related tables)

D — Product‑specific fastener requirements (examples in the code)

Polypropylene siding: unless manufacturer instructions say otherwise, nails must be corrosion‑resistant, min 0.120‑inch shank, min 0.313‑inch head dia., and not less than 1 1/4 in. long (or long enough to penetrate sheathing or nailable substrate at least 3/4 in.). Where a nail fully penetrates sheathing, the fastener end must extend at least 1/4 in. beyond the opposite face. Spacing: follow manufacturer instructions. (§ 1404.18.1–.2)
Fiber‑mat reinforced cementitious backer units (as exterior substrate): panels must be installed using corrosion‑resistant fasteners; finish materials must then be installed per approved finish manufacturer instructions. (§ 1404.19.1)

E — Flashing and drainage interfaces

Flashing must be installed to prevent water entry or to direct water to the exterior or to an approved water‑resistive barrier; flashing is required at fenestration per § 1404.4.1, at terminations and at intersections where water intrusion could occur. Follow the applicable flashing instructions (fenestration, WRB, flashing manufacturer, or RDP design). (§ 1404.4 and § 1404.4.1)

Exceptions & special cases

Manufacturer’s approved installation instructions take precedence where provided for a specific product or for application over foam sheathing — see the exceptions in § 1404.5 subsections. If a cladding manufacturer provides approved instructions for installation over foam sheathing those instructions apply. (§ 1404.5, exceptions)
EIFS and some anchored/stone veneers have separate sections and limitations. For EIFS see § 1407; anchored masonry/stone veneer has specific requirements elsewhere in Chapter 14 (referenced from § 1404.5). (§ 1404.5 exceptions; § 1407)
Where tables or subsections mark a condition “DR” (Design Required) the installer cannot rely solely on tabulated minimums; an engineered design or tested assembly is required. (§ 1404.5.2 tables)
For metal veneers the code includes backup and grounding notes (e.g., § 1404.12.3 and § 1404.12.4) — consult those subsections when installing metal veneer.
Important: The code excerpts provided did not include § 1404.11. Because that subsection was not retrieved I cannot summarize or rely on § 1404.11 text here. If § 1404.11 addresses a particular covering type you must provide that text or I can fetch it to include its requirements.

Common mistakes

Using non‑corrosion‑resistant fasteners on exterior coverings — violates § 1404.5. Always use corrosion‑resistant fasteners per the code or manufacturer instructions.
Ignoring the minimum nominal thickness requirements in Table 1404.2 (e.g., installing undersized siding or veneer) — check § 1404.2 / Table 1404.2.
Installing cladding over foam sheathing without following the specific attachment rules (penetration, fastener type, spacing and furring design) in § 1404.5.1–.3 and its tables.
Relying on generalized fastening schedules for special products (polypropylene, fiber‑mat backer, metal veneers) instead of the product‑specific subsections (e.g., § 1404.18, § 1404.19, § 1404.12).
Failing to install flashing or WRB in accordance with § 1404.4 and § 1403.2 (water‑resistive barrier) so that the wall cannot drain or dry properly.

Worked example — Polypropylene siding (concrete numbers from the code)

Scenario: New house sheathed with wood structural panel sheathing (7/16" OSB). You are installing polypropylene lap siding that the manufacturer certifies under the code.

Code requirements (from the CBC): polypropylene siding must be installed over and attached to wood structural panel sheathing with nailable substrate not less than 7/16 in. (§ 1404.18.1) and, unless manufacturer instructions say otherwise, nails shall be corrosion‑resistant, minimum 0.120‑inch shank, minimum head diameter 0.313 in., and not less than 1 1/4 in. long (or long enough to penetrate the sheathing or nailable substrate not less than 3/4 in.). (§ 1404.18.1–.2)

Application of the numbers:

You select corrosion‑resistant nails 0.120" shank, 1‑1/4" long with at least 0.313" head (meets § 1404.18.2 minimums). § 1404.18.2 requires at least those dimensions.
Confirm penetration: with 1‑1/4" nail through polypropylene profile into 7/16" OSB, the nail will pass the thin siding face and enter the OSB and into the framing — in normal cases that provides solid anchorage; if you were required to achieve 3/4" penetration into a nailable substrate per the product instructions, verify on site (measure substrate and adjust fastener length if required). § 1404.18.2 states the 1 1/4" minimum or as necessary to achieve 3/4" penetration.
Spacing: install fasteners per the manufacturer’s spacing instructions; the code directs that spacing follow manufacturer instructions unless the code or an approved design prescribes otherwise. (§ 1404.5 and § 1404.18.2)

If the siding is to be installed over foam sheathing instead of direct to nailable substrate, you must follow the applicable § 1404.5.x attachment rules (the table may require larger fasteners, screws, different spacing or an engineered design).

Related provisions (quick reference)

§ 1404 (Installation of wall coverings — general)
§ 1404.2 (Weather protection; Table 1404.2 minimum thicknesses)
§ 1404.4 / § 1404.4.1 (Flashing and fenestration flashing)
§ 1404.5 (Fastening — corrosion‑resistant fasteners; cladding over foam rules, with subsections 1404.5.1–.3)
§ 1404.5.2 & Tables 1404.5.2.1 / 1404.5.3.1 (cladding minimum fastening requirements for direct attachment over foam)
§ 1404.12 (metal veneer notes: backup, grounding)
§ 1404.18 (Polypropylene siding — installation and fastener requirements)
§ 1404.19 / 1404.19.1 (Fiber‑mat reinforced cementitious backer units — corrosion‑resistant fasteners and installation)
§ 1407 (EIFS — separate rules for exterior insulation and finish systems; referenced in exceptions)

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

CBC § 1403.2 High relevance — show source text
** Flashing shall be installed in such a manner so as to prevent moisture from entering the exterior wall or to redirect that moisture to the surface of the exterior wall covering or to a water-resistive barrier complying with Section 1403.2 and that is part of a means of drainage complying with Section 1402.2. Flashing shall be installed at the perimeters of exterior door and window assemblies in accordance with Section 1404.4.1, penetrations and terminations of exterior wall assemblies, exterior wall intersections with roofs, chimneys, porches, decks, balconies and similar projections and at built-in gutters and similar locations where moisture could enter the wall. Flashing with projecting flanges shall be installed on both sides and the ends of copings, under sills and continuously above projecting trim. Where self-adhered membranes are used as flashings of fenestration in exterior wall assemblies, those self-adhered flashings shall comply with AAMA 711. Where fluid applied membranes are used as flashing for exterior wall openings, those fluid applied membrane flashings shall comply with AAMA 714. 1404.4.1 Fenestration flashing. Flashing of the fenestration to the wall assembly shall comply with the fenestration manufacturer’s instructions or, for conditions not addressed by the fenestration manufacturer’s instructions, shall comply with one of the following:
1. The water-resistive barrier manufacturer’s flashing instructions.
2. The flashing manufacturer’s flashing instructions.
3. A flashing design or method of a registered design professional.
4. Other approved methods. 1404.4.2 Exterior wall pockets. In exterior walls of buildings or structures, wall pockets or crevices in which moisture can accumulate shall be avoided or protected with caps or drips, or other approved means shall be provided to prevent water damage.
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.

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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.
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.

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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:
1. 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.
2. For exterior insulation and finish systems, refer to Section 1407.
3. 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:
1. Where the cladding manufacturer has provided approved installation instructions for application over foam sheathing, those requirements shall apply.
2. For exterior insulation and finish systems, refer to Section 1407.
3. 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.

**

**

|[BS] TABLE 1404.5.2.1—CLADDING MINIMUM FASTENING REQUIREMENTS FOR
DIRECT ATTACHMENT OVER FOAM
CBC § 14-15 High relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 14-15

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EXTERIOR WALLS

[BS] 1404.18 Polypropylene siding. Polypropylene siding conforming to the requirements of this section and complying with Section 1403.11 shall be limited to exterior walls located in areas where the basic wind speed, V, specified in Chapter 16 does not exceed 100 miles per hour (45 m/s) and the building height is less than or equal to 40 feet (12 192 mm) in Exposure C. Where construction is located in areas where the basic wind speed, V, exceeds 100 miles per hour (45 m/s), or building heights are in excess of 40 feet (12 192 mm), tests or calculations indicating compliance with Chapter 16 shall be submitted.

[BS] 1404.18.1 Installation. Polypropylene siding and accessories shall be installed over and attached to wood structural panel sheathing with nailable substrate not less than [7] / 16 inch (11.1 mm) in thickness or other substrate suitable for mechanical fasteners in accordance with the approved manufacturer’s instructions.

[BS] 1404.18.2 Fastener requirements. Unless otherwise specified in the approved manufacturer’s instructions, nails shall be corrosion resistant, with a minimum 0.120-inch (3 mm) shank and a minimum 0.313-inch (8 mm) head diameter. Nails shall be not less than 1 [1] / 4 inches (32 mm) long or as necessary to penetrate sheathing or nailable substrate not less than [3] / 4 inch (19.1 mm). Where the nail fully penetrates the sheathing or nailable substrate, the end of the fastener shall extend not less than [1] / 4 inch (6.4 mm) beyond the opposite face of the sheathing or nailable substrate. Spacing of fasteners shall be installed in accordance with the approved manufacturer’s instructions.

[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:
1. 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.
2. Combustible exterior wall coverings shall be limited to 40 feet (12 192 mm) in height above grade plane. Exceptions:
CBC § 12.7 High relevance — show source text
** Braced wall panels shall have gypsum wall board installed on the side of the wall opposite the bracing material. Gypsum wall board shall be not less than [1] / 2 inch (12.7 mm) in thickness and be fastened with nails or screws in accordance with Table R602.3(1) for exterior sheathing or Table R702.3.5 for interior gypsum wall board. Spacing of fasteners at panel edges for gypsum wall board opposite Method LIB bracing shall not exceed 8 inches (203 mm). Interior finish material shall not be glued in Seismic Design Categories D 0, D 1 and D 2 . Exceptions:
1. Interior finish material is not required opposite wall panels that are braced in accordance with Methods GB, BVWSP, ABW, PFH, PFG and CS-PF, unless otherwise required by Section R302.6.
2. An approved interior finish material with an in-plane shear resistance equivalent to gypsum board shall be permitted to be substituted, unless otherwise required by Section R302.6.
3. Except for Method LIB, gypsum wall board is permitted to be omitted provided that the required length of bracing in Tables R602.10.3(1) and R602.10.3(3) is multiplied by the appropriate adjustment factor in Tables R602.10.3(2) and R602.10.3(4), respectively, unless otherwise required by Section R302.6. R602.10.4.4 Panel joints. Vertical joints of panel sheathing shall occur over and be fastened to common studs. Horizontal joints of panel sheathing in braced wall panels shall occur over and be fastened to common blocking of a thickness of 1 [1] / 2 inches (38 mm) or greater.
Exceptions:
1. For methods WSP and CS-WSP, blocking of horizontal joints is permitted to be omitted when adjustment factor No. 8 of Table R602.10.3(2) or No. 10 of Table R602.10.3(4) is applied.
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WALL CONSTRUCTION
1. Vertical joints of panel sheathing shall be permitted to occur over double studs, where adjoining panel edges are attached to separate studs with the required panel edge fastening schedule, and the adjacent studs are attached together with two rows of 10d box nails [3 inches by 0.128 inch (76.2 mm by 3.25 mm)] at 10 inches o.c. (254 mm).
2. Blocking at horizontal joints shall not be required in wall segments that are not counted as braced wall panels.
3. Where Method GB panels are installed horizontally, blocking of horizontal joints is not required.
R602.10.5 Minimum length of a braced wall panel. The minimum length of a braced wall panel shall comply with Table R602.10.5. For Methods CS-WSP and CS-SFB, the minimum panel length shall be based on the adjacent clear opening height in accordance with Table R602.10.5 and Figure R602.10.5. Where a panel has an opening on either side of differing heights, the taller opening height shall be used to determine the panel length.

|TABLE R602.10.

CBC § 2-16 High relevance — show source text

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WALL CONSTRUCTION

TABLE R602.3(1)—FASTENING SCHEDULE—continued	Col2	Col3	Col4
ITEM	DESCRIPTION OF BUILDING ELEMENTS	NUMBER AND TYPE OF FASTENERa, b, c	SPACING AND LOCATION
13	Top plate to top plate	16d common (31/2″ × 0.162″)	16″ o.c. face nail
13	Top plate to top plate	10d box (3″ × 0.128″); or 3″ × 0.131″ nails	12″ o.c.

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.

[BS] TABLE 1404.5.2.1—CLADDING MINIMUM FASTENING REQUIREMENTS FOR DIRECT ATTACHMENT OVER FOAM PLASTIC SHEATHING TO SUPPORT CLADDING WEIGHTa	Col2	Col3	Col4	Col5	Col6	Col7	Col8	Col9	Col10	Col11
CLADDING FASTENER THROUGH FOAM SHEATHING INTO:	CLADDING FASTENER TYPE AND MINIMUM SIZEb	CLADDING 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 SIZEb	CLADDING FASTENER VERTICAL SPACING (inches)	16″ o.c. fastener horizontal spacing	16″ o.c. fastener horizontal spacing	**16″ o.c.

CBC § 25.4 High relevance — show source text

In a horizontal orientation, the indicated 8-inch and 12-inch fastener spacing in furring shall be achieved by use of two fasteners into studs
at 16 inches and 24 inches on center, respectively.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot (psf) = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 0.00689 MPa.
DR = Design Required, o.c. = on center.
a. Wood furring shall be spruce-pine-fir or any softwood species with a specific gravity of 0.42 or greater. Steel furring shall be minimum 33 ksi steel. Cold-formed steel studs
shall be minimum 33 ksi steel for 33 mil and 43 mil thickness and 50 ksi steel for 54 mil steel or thicker.
b. Screws shall comply with the requirements of AISI S240.
c. Where the required cladding fastener penetration into wood material exceeds3/4 inch and is not more than 11/2 inches, a minimum 2-inch nominal wood furring or an
approved design shall be used.
d. Foam sheathing shall have a minimum compressive strength of 15 pounds per square inch in accordance with ASTM C578 or ASTM C1289.
e. Furring shall be spaced not more than 24 inches on center, in a vertical or horizontal orientation. In a vertical orientation, furring shall be located over wall studs and attached
with the required fastener spacing. In a horizontal orientation, the indicated 8-inch and 12-inch fastener spacing in furring shall be achieved by use of two fasteners into studs
at 16 inches and 24 inches on center, respectively.|

[BS] 1404.5.3 Cladding attachment over foam sheathing to wood framing. Cladding shall be specified and installed in accordance with this chapter and the cladding manufacturer’s installation instructions. 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 framing shall meet or exceed the minimum fastening requirements of Section 1404.5.3.1 or 1404.5.3.2, 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] 1404.5.3.1 Direct attachment. Where cladding is installed directly over foam sheathing without the use of furring, minimum fastening requirements to support the cladding weight shall be as specified in Table 1404.5.3.1.

[BS] TABLE 1404.5.3.1—CLADDING MINIMUM FASTENING REQUIREMENTS FOR DIRECT ATTACHMENT OVER FOAM PLASTIC SHEATHING TO SUPPORT CLADDING WEIGHTa	Col2	Col3	Col4	Col5	Col6	Col7	Col8	Col9	Col10	Col11
CLADDING FASTENER THROUGH FOAM SHEATHING INTO:	CLADDING FASTENER TYPE AND MINIMUM SIZEc	**CLADDING

CBC § 104.2.3. High relevance — show source text
Connections using nails and staples of other materials, such as stainless steel, shall be designed
by acceptable engineering practice or approved under Section 104.2.3.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Nails spaced at 6 inches at intermediate supports where spans are 48 inches or more. For nailing of wood structural panel and particleboard diaphragms and shear walls, refer
to Section 2305. Nails for wall sheathing are permitted to be common, box or casing.
b. Spacing shall be 6 inches on center on the edges and 12 inches on center at intermediate supports for nonstructural applications. Panel supports at 16 inches (20 inches if
strength axis in the long direction of the panel, unless otherwise marked).
c. Where a rafter is fastened to an adjacent parallel ceiling joist in accordance with this schedule and the ceiling joist is fastened to the top plate in accordance with this schedule,
the number of toenails in the rafter shall be permitted to be reduced by one nail.
d. RSRS is a Roof Sheathing Ring Shank nail meeting the specifications in ASTM F1667.
e. Tabulated fastener requirements apply where the basic wind speed,V, is less than 140 mph. For wood structural panel roof sheathing attached to gable-end roof framing and
to intermediate supports within 48 inches of roof edges and ridges, nails shall be spaced at 4 inches on center where the basic wind speed,V, is greater than 130 mph in Expo-
sure B or greater than 110 mph in Exposure C. Spacing exceeding 6 inches on center at intermediate supports shall be permitted where the fastening is designed per the AWC
NDS. Where the specific gravity of the wood species used for roof framing is greater than or equal to 0.35 but less than 0.42 in accordance with AWC NDS, fastening of roof
sheathing shall be with RSRS-03 (21/2″ × 0.131″ × 0.281″ head) nails unless alternative fastening is designed in accordance with AWC NDS. Where the specific gravity of the wood
species used for roof framing is less than 0.35, fastening of the roof sheathing shall be designed in accordance with AWC NDS.
f. Fastening is only permitted where the basic wind speed,V, is less than or equal to 110 mph and where fastening is to wood framing of a species with specific gravity greater
than or equal to 0.42 in accordance with AWC NDS.
g. Nails and staples are carbon steel meeting the specifications of ASTM F1667. Connections using nails and staples of other materials, such as stainless steel, shall be designed
by acceptable engineering practice or approved under Section 104.2.3.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Nails spaced at 6 inches at intermediate supports where spans are 48 inches or more. For nailing of wood structural panel and particleboard diaphragms and shear walls, refer
to Section 2305. Nails for wall sheathing are permitted to be common, box or casing.
b. Spacing shall be 6 inches on center on the edges and 12 inches on center at intermediate supports for nonstructural applications. Panel supports at 16 inches (20 inches if
strength axis in the long direction of the panel, unless otherwise marked).
c.
CBC § 0.080 High relevance — show source text
1/4″|4d casing (11/2″ × 0.080″); or
4d finish (11/2″ × 0.072″)|6|12| |41.3/8″|6d casing (2″ × 0.099″); or
6d finish (2″ × 0.092″)
(Panel supports at 24 inches)|6|12| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Nails spaced at 6 inches at intermediate supports where spans are 48 inches or more. For nailing of wood structural panel and particleboard diaphragms and shear walls, refer
to Section 2305. Nails for wall sheathing are permitted to be common, box or casing.
b. Spacing shall be 6 inches on center on the edges and 12 inches on center at intermediate supports for nonstructural applications. Panel supports at 16 inches (20 inches if
strength axis in the long direction of the panel, unless otherwise marked).
c. Where a rafter is fastened to an adjacent parallel ceiling joist in accordance with this schedule and the ceiling joist is fastened to the top plate in accordance with this schedule,
the number of toenails in the rafter shall be permitted to be reduced by one nail.
d. RSRS is a Roof Sheathing Ring Shank nail meeting the specifications in ASTM F1667.
e. Tabulated fastener requirements apply where the basic wind speed,V, is less than 140 mph. For wood structural panel roof sheathing attached to gable-end roof framing and
to intermediate supports within 48 inches of roof edges and ridges, nails shall be spaced at 4 inches on center where the basic wind speed,V, is greater than 130 mph in Expo-
sure B or greater than 110 mph in Exposure C. Spacing exceeding 6 inches on center at intermediate supports shall be permitted where the fastening is designed per the AWC
NDS. Where the specific gravity of the wood species used for roof framing is greater than or equal to 0.35 but less than 0.42 in accordance with AWC NDS, fastening of roof
sheathing shall be with RSRS-03 (21/2″ × 0.131″ × 0.281″ head) nails unless alternative fastening is designed in accordance with AWC NDS. Where the specific gravity of the wood
species used for roof framing is less than 0.35, fastening of the roof sheathing shall be designed in accordance with AWC NDS.
f. Fastening is only permitted where the basic wind speed,V, is less than or equal to 110 mph and where fastening is to wood framing of a species with specific gravity greater
than or equal to 0.42 in accordance with AWC NDS.
g. Nails and staples are carbon steel meeting the specifications of ASTM F1667. Connections using nails and staples of other materials, such as stainless steel, shall be designed
by acceptable engineering practice or approved under Section 104.2.3.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Nails spaced at 6 inches at intermediate supports where spans are 48 inches or more. For nailing of wood structural panel and particleboard diaphragms and shear walls, refer
to Section 2305. Nails for wall sheathing are permitted to be common, box or casing.
b. Spacing shall be 6 inches on center on the edges and 12 inches on center at intermediate supports for nonstructural applications.
CBC § 0.63 High relevance — show source text
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.|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.|
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 § 12-113 High relevance — show source text
1248 Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-113

1249 Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-113

1250 [CA] Pharmacies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-113

1251 [CA] Veterinary Premises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-113

1252 [CA] Barber Colleges and Shops. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-114

1253 [CA] Schools of Cosmetology, Cosmetological Establishments and Satellite Classrooms . . . . . 12-114

1254 [CA] Acupuncture Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-115

CHAPTER 13 ENERGY EFFICIENCY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-1

CHAPTER 14 EXTERIOR WALLS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1

1401 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-3

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
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:
1. 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.
2. Combustible exterior wall coverings shall be limited to 40 feet (12 192 mm) in height above grade plane. Exceptions:
3. Metal composite material (MCM) systems complying with Section 1406.
4. Exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) complying with Section 1407.
5. High-pressure decorative exterior-grade compact laminate (HPL) systems complying with Section 1408.
6. Exterior wall coverings containing foam plastic insulation complying with Section 2603.
7. 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.
8. 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:
1. Wood or wood-based products.
2. 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.
3. 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 § 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 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.

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 § 1403.11.2 Medium relevance — show source text

1403.11.2 Fire separation distance. The fire separation distance between a building with polypropylene siding and the adjacent building shall be not less than 10 feet (3048 mm).

1403.12 Foam plastic insulation. Foam plastic insulation used in exterior wall assemblies shall comply with Chapter 26.

1403.13 Fiber-mat reinforced cementitious backer units. Fiber-mat reinforced cementitious backer units used as an exterior substrate for the application of exterior finish materials shall comply with ASTM C1325.

1403.14 Insulated vinyl siding. Insulated vinyl siding shall be certified and labeled as conforming to the requirements of ASTM D7793 by an approved agency.

SECTION 1404—INSTALLATION OF WALL COVERINGS

1404.1 General. Exterior wall coverings shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the applicable provisions of this section.

1404.1.1 Soffits and fascias. Soffits and fascias installed as part of roof overhangs shall comply with Section 1412.

1404.1.2 Additional requirements. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC, OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] In addition to the requirements of Section 1404, the installation of anchored or adhered veneer shall comply with applicable provisions of Section 1413.

1404.2 Weather protection. Exterior walls shall provide weather protection for the building. The materials of the minimum nominal thickness specified in Table 1404.2 shall be acceptable as approved weather coverings.

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EXTERIOR WALLS

TABLE 1404.2—MINIMUM THICKNESS OF WEATHER COVERINGS	Col2
COVERING TYPE	MINIMUM THICKNESS (inches)
Adhered masonry veneer	0.25
Aluminum siding	0.019
Anchored masonry veneer
Stone (natural)	2.0
Architectural cast stone	2.5
Other	2.0
Asbestos-cement boards	0.125
Asbestos shingles	0.156
Cold-rolled copperd	0.0216 nominal
Copper shinglesd	0.0162 nominal
Exterior plywood (with sheathing)	0.313
Exterior plywood (without sheathing)	See Section 2304.6
Fiber cement lap siding	0.25c
Fiber cement panel siding	0.25c
Fiberboard siding	0.5
Fiber-mat reinforced cementitious backer units	0.5
Glass-fiber reinforced concrete panels	0.375
Hardboard sidingc	0.25
High-yield copperd	0.0162 nominal
Lead-coated copperd	0.0216 nominal
Lead-coated high-yield copper	0.0162 nominal
Marble slabs	1
Particleboard (with sheathing)	See Section 2304.6
Particleboard (without sheathing)	See Section 2304.6
Porcelain tile	0.125 nominal
Steel (approved corrosion resistant)	0.0149
Structural glass	0.344
Stucco or exterior cement plaster
Three-coat work over:
Metal plaster base	0.

CBC § 2.1 Medium relevance — show source text

agency	BSC	BSC- CG	SFM	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- CG	SFM	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 below		X	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

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14-2 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

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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.

CBC § 1403.5.3 Medium relevance — show source text
[BS] 1403.5.3 Lead-coated copper. Lead-coated copper shall conform to the requirements of ASTM B101.

[BS] 1403.6 Concrete. Exterior walls of concrete construction shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Chapter 19.

[BS] 1403.7 Glass-unit masonry Exterior walls of glass-unit masonry shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Chapter 21.

1403.8 Vinyl siding. Vinyl siding shall be certified and labeled as conforming to the requirements of ASTM D3679 by an approved

agency.

1403.9 Fiber-cement siding. Fiber-cement siding shall conform to the requirements of ASTM C1186, Type A (or ISO 8336, Category A), and shall be so identified on labeling listing an approved agency.

1403.10 Exterior insulation and finish systems. Exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) and exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) with drainage shall comply with Section 1407.

1403.11 Polypropylene siding. Polypropylene siding shall be certified and labeled as conforming to the requirements of ASTM D7254 and those of Section 1403.11.1 or 1403.11.2 by an approved agency. Polypropylene siding shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of Section 1404.18 and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Polypropylene siding shall be secured to the building so as to provide weather protection for the exterior walls of the building.

1403.11.1 Flame spread index. The certification of the flame spread index shall be accompanied by a test report stating that all portions of the test specimen ahead of the flame front remained in position during the test in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723.

1403.11.2 Fire separation distance. The fire separation distance between a building with polypropylene siding and the adjacent building shall be not less than 10 feet (3048 mm).

1403.12 Foam plastic insulation. Foam plastic insulation used in exterior wall assemblies shall comply with Chapter 26.

1403.13 Fiber-mat reinforced cementitious backer units. Fiber-mat reinforced cementitious backer units used as an exterior substrate for the application of exterior finish materials shall comply with ASTM C1325.

1403.14 Insulated vinyl siding. Insulated vinyl siding shall be certified and labeled as conforming to the requirements of ASTM D7793 by an approved agency.

SECTION 1404—INSTALLATION OF WALL COVERINGS

1404.1 General. Exterior wall coverings shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the applicable provisions of this section.

1404.1.1 Soffits and fascias. Soffits and fascias installed as part of roof overhangs shall comply with Section 1412.

1404.1.2 Additional requirements. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC, OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] In addition to the requirements of Section 1404, the installation of anchored or adhered veneer shall comply with applicable provisions of Section 1413.

1404.2 Weather protection. Exterior walls shall provide weather protection for the building. The materials of the minimum nominal thickness specified in Table 1404.2 shall be acceptable as approved weather coverings.

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CBC § 1.2 Medium 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.

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.

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:
1. A weather-resistant exterior wall assembly shall not be required over concrete or masonry walls designed in accordance with Chapters 19 and 21, respectively.
2. 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 § 12.3 Medium relevance — show source text
1705 A .12.3 Wind-resisting components. Periodic special inspection is required for fastening of the following systems and components:
1. Roof covering, roof deck and roof framing connections.
2. Exterior wall covering and wall connections to roof and floor diaphragms and framing.
1705 A .13 Special inspections for seismic resistance. Special inspections for seismic resistance shall be required as specified in Sections 1705 A .13.1 through 1705 A .13.9, unless exempted by the exceptions of Section 1704 A .2.

1705 A .13.1 Structural steel. Special inspections for seismic resistance shall be in accordance with Section 1705 A .13.1.1 or 1705 A .13.1.2, as applicable.

1705 A .13.1.1 Seismic force-resisting systems. Special inspections of structural steel in the seismic force-resisting systems in buildings and structures assigned to Seismic Design Category D, E or F shall be performed in accordance with the quality assurance requirements of AISC 341 and this code.

[DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] Quality assurance application is not permitted for the following AISC 341, Chapter J Sections: 1. J6 (Inspection Tasks).

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SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS

2. J7 (Welding Inspection and Nondestructive Testing). 3. J10 (Inspection of Composite Structures). 4. J11 (Inspection of H-Piles).

Additionally, the applicable portions in Table 1705A.2.1 of the California Building Code shall apply.

1705 A .13.1.2 Structural steel elements. Special inspections of structural steel elements in the seismic force-resisting systems of buildings and structures assigned to Seismic Design Category D, E or F other than those covered in Section 1705 A .13.1.1, including struts, collectors, chords and foundation elements, shall be performed in accordance with the quality assurance requirements of AISC 341 and this code .

[DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] Quality assurance application is not permitted for the following AISC 341, Chapter J Sections: 1. J6 (Inspection Tasks). 2. J7 (Welding Inspection and Nondestructive Testing). 3. J10 (Inspection of Composite Structures). 4. J11 (Inspection of H-Piles).

Additionally, the applicable portions in Table 1705A.2.1 of the California Building Code shall apply.

1705 A .13.2 Structural wood. For the seismic force-resisting systems of structures assigned to Seismic Design Category D, E or F:
1. Continuous special inspection shall be required during field gluing operations of elements of the seismic force-resisting system.
2. Periodic special inspection shall be required for nailing, bolting, anchoring and other fastening of elements of the seismic force-resisting system, including wood shear walls, wood diaphragms, drag struts, braces, shear panels and hold-downs.
CBC § 0.120 Medium relevance — show source text
fastener**
horizontal spacing| |CLADDING FASTENER
THROUGH FOAM
SHEATHING INTO:|CLADDING FASTENER
TYPE AND MINIMUM SIZEc|CLADDING FASTENER
VERTICAL SPACING
(INCHES)|Cladding weight:|Cladding weight:|Cladding weight:|Cladding weight:|Cladding weight:|Cladding weight:|Cladding weight:|Cladding weight:| |CLADDING FASTENER
THROUGH FOAM
SHEATHING INTO:|CLADDING FASTENER
TYPE AND MINIMUM SIZEc|CLADDING FASTENER
VERTICAL SPACING
(INCHES)|**3 **
psf|11
psf|18
psf|25
psf|**3 **
psf|11
psf|18
psf|25
psf| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.120" diameter nail|6|3.00|1.70|0.90|0.55|3.00|1.05|0.50|DR| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.120" diameter nail|8|3.00|1.20|0.60|DR|3.00|0.70|DR|DR| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.120" diameter nail|12|3.00|0.70|DR|DR|2.15|DR|DR|DR| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.131" diameter nail|6|4.00|2.15|1.20|0.75|4.00|1.35|0.70|DR| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.131" diameter nail|8|4.00|1.55|0.80|DR|4.00|0.90|DR|DR| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.131" diameter nail|12|4.00|0.90|DR|DR|2.70|0.50|DR|DR| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.162" diameter nail|6|4.00|3.55|2.05|1.40|4.00|2.25|1.25|0.80| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.162" diameter nail|8|4.00|2.55|1.45|0.95|4.00|1.60|0.85|0.50| |Wood Framing
(minimum 11/4- inch
penetration)b|0.162" diameter nail|12|4.00|1.60|0.85|0.50|4.00|0.95|DR|DR| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.
CBC § 2.25 Medium relevance — show source text
00|2.25|0.70|DR|3.70|1.05|DR|DR| |Minimum 33
mil steel
furring or
minimum
1x wood
furringc|33 mil cold-
formed steel
stud|#10 screw|Steel thick-
ness plus 3
threads|16|3.85|1.45|DR|DR|3.40|DR|DR|DR| |Minimum 33
mil steel
furring or
minimum
1x wood
furringc|33 mil cold-
formed steel
stud|#10 screw|Steel thick-
ness plus 3
threads|24|3.40|DR|DR|DR|2.70|DR|DR|DR| |Minimum 33
mil steel
furring or
minimum
1x wood
furringc|43 mil or
thicker cold-
formed steel
stud|#8 Screw|Steel thick-
ness plus 3
threads|12|3.00|1.80|DR|DR|3.00|0.65|DR|DR| |Minimum 33
mil steel
furring or
minimum
1x wood
furringc|43 mil or
thicker cold-
formed steel
stud|#8 Screw|Steel thick-
ness plus 3
threads|16|3.00|1.00|DR|DR|2.85|DR|DR|DR| |Minimum 33
mil steel
furring or
minimum
1x wood
furringc|43 mil or
thicker cold-
formed steel
stud|#8 Screw|Steel thick-
ness plus 3
threads|24|2.85|DR|DR|DR|2.20|DR|DR|DR| |Minimum 33
mil steel
furring or
minimum
1x wood
furringc|43 mil or
thicker cold-
formed steel
stud|#10 screw|Steel thick-
ness plus 3
threads|12|4.00|3.85|2.80|1.80|4.00|3.05|1.50|DR| |Minimum 33
mil steel
furring or
minimum
1x wood
furringc|43 mil or
thicker cold-
formed steel
stud|#10 screw|Steel thick-
ness plus 3
threads|16|4.00|3.30|1.95|0.60|4.00|2.25|DR|DR| |Minimum 33
mil steel
furring or
minimum
1x wood
furringc|43 mil or
thicker cold-
formed steel
stud|#10 screw|Steel thick-
ness plus 3
threads|24|4.00|2.25|DR|DR|4.00|0.65|DR|DR| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot (psf) = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 0.00689 MPa.
DR = Design Required, o.c. = on center.
a. Wood furring shall be spruce-pine-fir or any softwood species with a specific gravity of 0.42 or greater.
CBC § 2-4 Medium relevance — show source text
1. The vertical elements of the lateral force-resisting system have suffered damage such that the lateral load-carrying capacity of any story in any horizontal direction has been reduced by more than 10 percent from its pre-earthquake condition.
[BE] EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE OPENING. An operable exterior window, door or other similar device that provides for a means of escape and access for rescue in the event of an emergency.

ENFORCEMENT AGENCY. [BSC, DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] The agency or organization charged with responsibility for agency or organization compliance with the requirements of this code, also known as the Authority Having Jurisdiction in ASCE 41.

EQUIPMENT OR FIXTURE. Any plumbing, heating, electrical, ventilating, air conditioning, refrigerating and fire protection equipment; and elevators, dumbwaiters, escalators, boilers, pressure vessels and other mechanical facilities; or installations that are related to building services. Equipment or fixture shall not include manufacturing, production or process equipment, but shall include connections from building service to process equipment.

[A] EXISTING BUILDING. A building erected prior to the date of adoption of the appropriate code, or one for which a legal building permit has been issued.

[A] EXISTING STRUCTURE. A structure erected prior to the date of adoption of the appropriate code, or one for which a legal building permit has been issued.

EXISTING STRUCTURE. [OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] A structure that has a valid certificate of occupancy issued by the building official.

EXTERIOR ELEVATED ELEMENT. See Government Code Section 17973(b)(2).

[BF] EXTERIOR WALL COVERING. A material or assembly of materials applied on the exterior side of exterior walls for the purpose of providing a weather-resisting barrier, insulation or for aesthetics, including but not limited to, veneers, siding, exterior insulation and finish systems, architectural trim and embellishments, such as cornices, soffits, facias, gutters and leaders.

2-4 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

DEFINITIONS

[BF] EXTERIOR WALL ENVELOPE. A system or assembly of exterior wall components, including exterior wall finish materials, that provides protection of the building structural members, including framing and sheathing materials, and conditioned interior space from the detrimental effects of the exterior environment.

[A] FACILITY. All or any portion of buildings, structures, site improvements, elements and pedestrian or vehicular routes located on a site.

[BS] FLOOD HAZARD AREA. The greater of the following two areas:
1. The area within a flood plain subject to a 1-percent or greater chance of flooding in any year.
2. The area designated as a flood hazard area on a community’s flood hazard map, or otherwise legally designated.
GENERAL ACUTE CARE HOSPITAL. [OSHPD 1] See California Building Code Section 1224.3.
CBC § 2.4. Medium relevance — show source text
2.4. Exterior wall envelope assemblies shall be subjected to the minimum test exposure for a minimum of 2 hours. The exterior wall envelope design shall be considered to resist wind-driven rain where the results of testing indicate that water did not penetrate control joints in the exterior wall envelope, joints at the perimeter of openings penetration or intersections of terminations with dissimilar materials.

R703.1.2 Wind resistance. Wall coverings, backing materials and their attachments shall be capable of resisting wind loads in accordance with Tables R301.2.1(1) and R301.2.1(2). Wind-pressure resistance of the siding, exterior soffit and backing materials shall be determined by ASTM E330 or other applicable standard test methods. Where wind-pressure resistance is determined by design analysis, data from approved design standards and analysis conforming to generally accepted engineering practice shall be used to evaluate the siding, exterior soffit and backing material and its fastening. All applicable failure modes including bending rupture of siding, fastener withdrawal and fastener head pull-through shall be considered in the testing or design analysis. Where the wall covering, exterior soffit and backing material resist wind load as an assembly, use of the design capacity of the assembly shall be permitted. R703.2 Water-resistive barrier. Not fewer than one layer of water-resistive barrier shall be applied over studs or sheathing of all exterior walls with flashing as indicated in Section R703.4, in such a manner as to provide a continuous water-resistive barrier behind the exterior wall veneer and behind deck ledgers. The water-resistive barrier material shall be continuous to the top of walls and terminated at penetrations and building appendages in a manner to meet the requirements of the exterior wall envelope as described in Section R703.1. Where the water-resistive barrier also functions as a component of a continuous air barrier, the waterresistive barrier shall be installed as an air barrier in accordance with Section N1102.5.1.1. Water-resistive barrier materials shall comply with one of the following:
1. No. 15 felt complying with ASTM D226, Type 1.
2. ASTM E2556, Type 1 or 2.
3. Foam plastic insulating sheathing water-resistive barrier systems complying with Section R703.1.1 and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
4. ASTM E331 in accordance with Section R703.1.1.
5. Other approved materials in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. No.15 asphalt felt and water-resistive barriers complying with ASTM E2556 shall be applied horizontally, with the upper layer lapped over the lower layer not less than 2 inches (51 mm), and where joints occur, shall be lapped not less than 6 inches (152 mm). Exception: A water-resistive barrier shall not be required in unconditioned detached tool sheds, storage sheds, playhouses, and other similar accessory structures provided all of the following requirements are met:
6. Exterior wall covering is limited to siding that is attached direct to studs.
7. Exterior walls are uninsulated.
8. Interior side of exterior walls has no wall covering or wall finishes. R703.3 Wall covering nominal thickness and attachments. The nominal thickness and attachment of exterior wall coverings shall be in accordance with Table R703.3(1), the wall covering material requirements of this section, and the wall covering manufacturer’s installation instructions. Cladding attachment over foam sheathing shall comply with the additional requirements and limitations of Sections R703.15 through R703.17.
CBC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text
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.
California Building Code Medium relevance — show source text
; 2′ C.R.S. with 1″ cover on
both top and bottom flanges; 13′1″ span
restrained.|60 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-6-RC-34|61/4″|61/4″ thick; 43/4″ (5120 psi) concrete core;
1″ T&G board flooring;1/2″ plaster under-
coat; 4″ × 3″ × 10 lbs R.S.J.; 3′ C.R.S. flush
with top surface concrete; 12′ span simply
supported; 2″ × 1′3″ clinker concrete
insert.|100 psf|4 hrs|||7|1, 7|4| |F/C-6-RC-35|61/4″|43/4″ (3600 psi) concrete core; 1″ T&G
board flooring;1/2″ plaster undercoat; 4″ ×
3″ × 10 lbs R.S.J.; 3′ C.R.S. flush with top
surface concrete; 12′ span simply
supported; 2″ × 1′3″ clinker concrete
insert.|100 psf|2 hrs
30 min|||7|1, 5|21/2| |F/C-6-RC-36|61/4″|43/4″ (2800 psi) concrete core; 1″ T&G
board flooring;1/2″ plaster undercoat; 4″ ×
3″ × 10 lbs R.S.J.; 3′ C.R.S. flush with top
surface concrete; 12″ span simply
supported; 2″ × 1′3″ clinker concrete
insert.|80 psf|4 hrs|||7|1, 7|4| |F/C-7-RC-37|7″|(3640 psi) concrete deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 6″ pitch with 11/2″ cover;1/4″
reinforcement bars at 5″ pitch perpendic-
ular with 11/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|169 psf|6 hrs|||7|1, 14|6| |F/C-7-RC-38|7″|(4060 psi) concrete deck; 4″ × 3″ × 10 lbs
R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S. with 11/2″ cover on both
top and bottom flanges; 4″ × 6″ × 13 SWG
mesh reinforcement 11/2″ from bottom of
slab; 13′1″ span restrained.|175 psf|6 hrs|||7|1, 14|6| |F/C-7-RC-39|71/4″|53/4″ (4010 psi) concrete core; 1″ T&G
board flooring;1/2″ plaster undercoat;
4″ × 3″ × 10 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.
California Building Code Medium relevance — show source text
|100 psf|1 hr
23 min|||7|1, 2|11/3| |F/C-4-RC-9|4″|4″ deep (4370 psi);1/4″ reinforcement bars
at 6″ pitch with3/4″ cover;1/4″ main rein-
forcement bars at 4″ pitch perpendicular
with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span restrained.|150 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-10|4″|4″ thick (5140 psi) deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 33/4″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|140 psf|1 hr
16 min|||7|1, 5|11/4| |F/C-4-RC-11|4″|4″ thick (4000 psi) concrete deck;
3″ × 11/2″ × 4 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.; flush
with top surface; 4″ × 6″ x 13 SWG mesh
reinforcement 1″ from bottom of slab; 6′6″
span restrained.|150 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-12|4″|4″ deep (2380 psi) concrete deck;
3″ × 11/2″ × 4 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.; flush
with top surface; 4″ × 6″ x 13 SWG mesh
reinforcement 1″ from bottom surface;
6′6″ span restrained.|150 psf|1 hr
3 min|||7|1, 2|1| |F/C-4-RC-13|41/2″|41/2″ thick (5200 psi) deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/4″ pitch with7/8″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 33/4″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|140 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-14|41/2″|41/2″ deep (2525 psi) concrete deck;1/4″
reinforcement bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″
cover;3/8″ main reinforcement bars at
33/8″ pitch perpendicular with1/2″ cover;
13′1″ span restrained.|150 psf|42 min|||7|1, 5|2/3| |F/C-4-RC-15|41/2″|41/2″ deep (4830 psi) concrete deck;
11/2″ × No.
CBC § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text
Tabulated values are applicable to construction where gravity loads bear on top of wall, and conditions where gravity loads from floor construction are transferred to wall
from a wood ledger or cold-formed steel track bolted to side of wall. See Tables R608.6(1), R608.6(2) and R608.6(3).|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m2.
DR = Design Required.
a. Table is based on ASCE 7 components and cladding wind pressures for an enclosed building using a mean roof height of 35 feet, interior wall area 4, an effective wind area of
10 square feet, topographic factor,Kzt, equal to 1.0, and Risk Category II.
b. Table is based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi.
c. See Section R608.6.5 for location of reinforcement in wall.
d. Deflection criterion is_L_/240, where_L_ is the height of the wall in inches from the exterior finish ground level to the top of the above-grade wall.
e. Interpolation is not permitted. For intermediate values of basic wind speed, heights of stem wall and above-grade wall, and design lateral soil load, use next higher value.
f. Where No. 4 reinforcing bars at a spacing of 48 inches are specified in the table as indicated by shaded cells, use of bars with a minimum yield strength of 40,000 psi or 60,000
psi is permitted.
g. Other than for No. 4 bars spaced at 48 inches on center, table values are based on reinforcing bars with a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi. Maximum spacings shown are
the values calculated for the specified bar size. In waffle and screen-grid walls where the bar used is Grade 60 and the size specified in the table, the actual spacing in the wall
shall not exceed a whole-number multiple of 12 inches such as, 12, 24, 36 and 48, that is less than or equal to the tabulated spacing. Vertical reinforcement with a yield
strength of less than 60,000 psi and bars of a different size than specified in the table are permitted in accordance with Section R608.5.4.7 and Table R608.5.4(2).
h. Height of stem wall is the distance from the exterior finish ground level to the top of the slab-on-ground.
i. Where the distance from the exterior finish ground level to the top of the slab-on-ground is equal to or greater than 4 feet, the stem wall shall be laterally supported at the top
and bottom before backfilling. Where the wall is designed and constructed to be continuous with the above-grade wall, temporary supports bracing the top of the stem wall
shall remain in place until the above-grade wall is laterally supported at the top by floor or roof construction.
j. See Table R608.3 for tolerances on nominal thicknesses, and minimum core dimensions and maximum spacing of horizontal and vertical cores for waffle-and screen-grid
walls.
k. Tabulated values are applicable to construction where gravity loads bear on top of wall, and conditions where gravity loads from floor construction are transferred to wall
from a wood ledger or cold-formed steel track bolted to side of wall.
CBC § 0.35 Medium relevance — show source text
RSRS is a Roof Sheathing Ring Shank nail meeting the specifications in ASTM F1667.
e. Tabulated fastener requirements apply where the basic wind speed,V, is less than 140 mph. For wood structural panel roof sheathing attached to gable-end roof framing and
to intermediate supports within 48 inches of roof edges and ridges, nails shall be spaced at 4 inches on center where the basic wind speed,V, is greater than 130 mph in Expo-
sure B or greater than 110 mph in Exposure C. Spacing exceeding 6 inches on center at intermediate supports shall be permitted where the fastening is designed per the AWC
NDS. Where the specific gravity of the wood species used for roof framing is greater than or equal to 0.35 but less than 0.42 in accordance with AWC NDS, fastening of roof
sheathing shall be with RSRS-03 (21/2″ × 0.131″ × 0.281″ head) nails unless alternative fastening is designed in accordance with AWC NDS. Where the specific gravity of the wood
species used for roof framing is less than 0.35, fastening of the roof sheathing shall be designed in accordance with AWC NDS.
f. Fastening is only permitted where the basic wind speed,V, is less than or equal to 110 mph and where fastening is to wood framing of a species with specific gravity greater
than or equal to 0.42 in accordance with AWC NDS.
g. Nails and staples are carbon steel meeting the specifications of ASTM F1667. Connections using nails and staples of other materials, such as stainless steel, shall be designed
by acceptable engineering practice or approved under Section 104.2.3.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Nails spaced at 6 inches at intermediate supports where spans are 48 inches or more. For nailing of wood structural panel and particleboard diaphragms and shear walls, refer
to Section 2305. Nails for wall sheathing are permitted to be common, box or casing.
b. Spacing shall be 6 inches on center on the edges and 12 inches on center at intermediate supports for nonstructural applications. Panel supports at 16 inches (20 inches if
strength axis in the long direction of the panel, unless otherwise marked).
c. Where a rafter is fastened to an adjacent parallel ceiling joist in accordance with this schedule and the ceiling joist is fastened to the top plate in accordance with this schedule,
the number of toenails in the rafter shall be permitted to be reduced by one nail.
d. RSRS is a Roof Sheathing Ring Shank nail meeting the specifications in ASTM F1667.
e. Tabulated fastener requirements apply where the basic wind speed,V, is less than 140 mph. For wood structural panel roof sheathing attached to gable-end roof framing and
to intermediate supports within 48 inches of roof edges and ridges, nails shall be spaced at 4 inches on center where the basic wind speed,V, is greater than 130 mph in Expo-
sure B or greater than 110 mph in Exposure C. Spacing exceeding 6 inches on center at intermediate supports shall be permitted where the fastening is designed per the AWC
NDS.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions or the CBC tables?

Follow both. The CBC requires corrosion‑resistant fasteners and permits manufacturer’s approved installation instructions to control specifics; where the code calls out a table or mandates Designer/engineered (DR) design, you must meet those code requirements in addition to the manufacturer's instructions. § 1404.5.

Are stainless steel fasteners always required?

The code requires “corrosion‑resistant” fasteners; stainless steel is one commonly used option but other coatings or metals that are corrosion‑resistant and compatible with the cladding are acceptable. § 1404.5.

What if I install cladding over foam board?

Special requirements apply: attachments through foam to the substrate must meet § 1404.5.1, .5.2 or .5.3 (and their tables). Often this means specific fastener types, minimum sizes, spacing and limits on foam thickness, or an engineered design where tables show “DR.”

Does Table 1404.2 apply to every product?

Table 1404.2 lists minimum nominal thicknesses the code recognizes as acceptable weather coverings. Always check Table 1404.2 and the product standard/subsection for the specific product; some products have their own subsections (e.g., polypropylene § 1404.18). § 1404.2.

I can’t find § 1404.11 in the files you used. Can you include it?

I could not retrieve § 1404.11 from the files provided. If you need § 1404.11 cited or interpreted, please supply that text (or permit me to fetch the complete CBC file that includes § 1404.11) and I will incorporate it exactly and show how it changes the requirements.

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Related in the CBC

Which materials are permitted for exterior walls and what WRB materials are acceptable?

What are the requirements for veneers and where are additional DSA/OSHPD veneer rules?

Cladding Materials & Installation

California Building Code

What are installation and fastening requirements for common wall coverings?

What the code requires

Requirements in detail

A — Weather protection and minimum material thickness

B — Fasteners: corrosion resistance, manufacturer instructions, and general rule

C — Attachments through foam plastic insulating sheathing

D — Product‑specific fastener requirements (examples in the code)

E — Flashing and drainage interfaces

Exceptions & special cases

Common mistakes

Worked example — Polypropylene siding (concrete numbers from the code)

Related provisions (quick reference)

Code references

7 WALL COVERING

14 EXTERIOR WALLS

14 EXTERIOR WALLS

Frequently asked questions

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