CBC · California Building Code

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

For homeowners: CBC Chapter 14 requires specific minimum veneer thicknesses and maximum heights for exterior wood veneer (see § 1404.6). For public school, community college or hospital projects regulated by DSA or OSHPD, Section 1413 adds extra rules — for example, adhered veneer must prove a bond shear strength of at least 50 psi through field tests, adhered units must weigh no more than 15 psf, and veneer cannot substitute for structural backing. Always confirm which sections apply to your project and keep the required test reports and details for plan review.

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

Under the California Building Code (CBC) exterior wood veneer minimum thickness and height/attachment limits are set in § 1404.6. For anchored and adhered veneers used on projects governed by the Division of the State Architect (DSA) or OSHPD, Chapter 14 adds mandatory, project‑type specific requirements in Section 1413 (marked “[DSA‑SS & DSA‑SS/CC, OSHPD …]”), including that veneer is not part of the backing, adhered veneer bond strength and testing, weight limits, and restrictions on overhead use.

Requirements in detail

A. Wood veneers (CBC § 1404.6)

  • Minimum acceptable veneers on exterior walls of Types I–IV construction: nominal 1 in. wood, 0.438‑in. exterior hardboard siding, or 0.375‑in. exterior‑type wood structural panels/particleboard. § 1404.6.
  • Height limits: veneer shall not exceed 40 ft above grade; where fire‑retardant‑treated (FRT) wood is used the height limit increases to 60 ft. § 1404.6.
  • Open or spaced wood veneers (no concealed space) are limited to a projection of not more than 24 in. from the building wall. § 1404.6.
  • Veneer attachment must be to, or furred from, noncombustible backing where a fire‑resistance rating of the backing is required by other code provisions. § 1404.6.

B. Anchored and adhered veneer — additional DSA/OSHPD requirements (Section 1413)

  • Veneer never counts toward the required strength or thickness of the structural backing (veneer is non‑structural). § 1413.1.
  • Veneer must be anchored so it cannot move relative to the wall; anchored or adhered veneers are prohibited on overhead horizontal surfaces. § 1413.1.
  • Adhered veneer: where units exceed 5/8 in. thickness and are used over exit ways or >20 ft in height above adjacent grade, they must be installed as anchored veneer (i.e., not as adhered). § 1413.2.

C. Bond strength, testing, and weight limits for adhered veneer (Section 1413.2 and related)

  • Minimum bond (shear) strength requirement for adhered masonry veneer to the backing: 50 psi (gross unit bonded area). Tests must follow ASTM C1823 on a field‑constructed mock‑up using the specified unit, mortar and substrate. § 1413.2.1.
  • Testing frequency: not less than two shear tests shall be performed for the adhered veneer; and at least one shear test is required at each building for each 5,000 sq ft (465 m2) of wall area or fraction thereof. § 1413.2.1.
  • Weight limit (replacement to TMS language): the weight of adhered masonry veneer units shall not exceed 15 psf. § 1413.2.2.

D. Adhered masonry veneer installation detail (related CBC provisions)

  • CBC gives detailed installation and size/weight limits for specific adhered veneers (porcelain tile, interior adhered veneers, setting bed/scratch coat requirements) in Section 1404.11 (adhered veneer and related requirements). For example: exterior porcelain tile adhered units have face dimension and weight limits; interior adhered masonry veneers have a maximum weight of 20 psf and require supporting‑member deflection control when supported by wood construction. § 1404.11 and subsections.

Decision‑relevant dimensions / values (quick reference table)

Parameter Value / Limit Code Reference
Wood veneer minimum thickness (nominal) 1.0 in.; or 0.438 in. hardboard; or 0.375 in. wood structural panel/particleboard § 1404.6
Maximum veneer height (standard) 40 ft above grade § 1404.6
Maximum veneer height (FRT wood) 60 ft above grade § 1404.6
Open / spaced veneer projection 24 in. max projection from wall § 1404.6
Adhered veneer maximum unit weight 15 psf (adhered masonry veneer units) § 1413.2.2
Adhered veneer bond strength (required) ≥ 50 psi shear (ASTM C1823 field mock‑up tests) § 1413.2.1
Shear test frequency ≥ 2 tests total; ≥ 1 test per 5,000 sq ft wall area (or fraction) § 1413.2.1
Interior adhered veneer max weight 20 psf (interior adhered veneers) § 1404.11.3
Porcelain tile (exterior) size/weight limits Units > 3.5 lb/ft2: ≤48 in dimension & ≤9 ft2 & ≤6 lb/ft2; Units ≤3.5 lb/ft2: ≤72 in & ≤17.5 ft2 § 1404.11.2

(Use the specific section language for design/installation details; the table lists the primary numeric thresholds.)

Exceptions & special cases

  • The entire Section 1413 is prefaced for projects regulated by DSA and OSHPD—those agencies’ projects are subject to these additional requirements; review the 1413 header to confirm applicability to your project type. § 1413 (header).
  • Adhered units thicker than 5/8 in. used above exits or over 20 ft above adjacent grade must be treated/installed as anchored veneer (not simply adhered). § 1413.2.
  • Anchored masonry veneer is governed by other parts of Chapter 14 and by the referenced masonry standard (TMS 402/TMS 602) where noted; see the anchored masonry headings (e.g., § 1404.7 and related). § 1404.7.
  • Projects with seismic or special‑inspection triggers (Seismic Design Categories D/E/F, DSA/OSHPD scopes) may have additional special inspection, testing and quality assurance requirements (see Chapter 17/17A and the special inspection notes). § 1705A references.

If a required CBC provision or a DSA/OSHPD amendment is not present in the files you have, do not assume alternate requirements — consult the enforcing agency for that project.

Common mistakes

  • Treating veneer as part of the structural backup or using veneer to satisfy required backing thickness (prohibited by § 1413.1).
  • Installing adhered veneer units that exceed the 15 psf limit without redesigning as anchored veneer or validating with appropriate testing and approvals. § 1413.2.2.
  • Omitting the required ASTM C1823 field mock‑up shear tests or doing fewer than the minimum number/frequency required by § 1413.2.1.
  • Assuming residential veneer rules (e.g., portions of the California Residential Code) apply to non‑residential CBC projects without checking applicable Chapter 14 or DSA/OSHPD amendments. See the CBC Chapter 14 vs. CRC differences.

Worked example

Project: A DSA‑governed school building will receive exterior adhered masonry veneer covering 6,000 sq ft of wall area. The veneer units specified weigh 12 psf (within the 15 psf adhered limit).

  • Weight check: 12 psf ≤ 15 psf — acceptable per § 1413.2.2.
  • Bond strength testing: vendor/installer must provide field mock‑up tests per ASTM C1823 and show the adhered veneer develops ≥ 50 psi shear capacity per § 1413.2.1.
  • Number of shear tests required: § 1413.2.1 requires not less than two shear tests overall, and at least one test for each 5,000 sq ft (or fraction) of wall area. For 6,000 sq ft that yields the greater of: (a) two tests minimum; (b) ceil(6,000 / 5,000) = 2 tests. So you must perform at least two shear tests (and the code also requires not less than two tests in total). § 1413.2.1.
  • If any test fails to meet ≥ 50 psi, do not accept the installation; adjust materials/method and retest per § 1413.2.1.

Related provisions

  • § 1404.1.2 — additional requirement: installations of anchored or adhered veneer must comply with Section 1413 when DSA/OSHPD applicability exists.
  • § 1404.11 — adhered masonry veneer installation details, interior/exterior weight and dimensional limits (porcelain tile rules, interior adhered veneer weight).
  • § 1404.7 — anchored masonry veneer provisions (references TMS 402 and related sections).
  • § 1404.12 — metal veneer fabrication, attachment, and corrosion protection requirements.
  • § 1705A / Chapter 17A — special inspection and testing requirements that can apply to veneer work on DSA/OSHPD projects (periodic special inspection for exterior and interior veneer in certain seismic categories).
  • Chapter 21 / § 2101 — masonry chapter application and DSA/OSHPD adoption notes (masonry design methods and agency amendments).

Code references

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

  • CBC § 25.4 High relevance — show source text

    Maximum weight is installed weight and includes weight of mortar, grout and lath, and other materials used for installation.
    c. The veneer shall not exceed 20 feet in height above a noncombustible foundation, with an additional 8 feet permitted for gable end walls, or 30 feet in height with an addi-
    tional 8 feet for gable end walls where the lower 10 feet have a backing of concrete or masonry wall. See story height limitations of Section R301.3.
    d. The veneer shall not exceed 30 feet in height above a noncombustible foundation, with an additional 8 feet permitted for gable end walls. See story height limitations of
    Section R301.3.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.479 kPa, 1 pound-force = 4.448 N.
    a. Cripple walls are not permitted in Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2.
    b. Maximum weight is installed weight and includes weight of mortar, grout and lath, and other materials used for installation.
    c. The veneer shall not exceed 20 feet in height above a noncombustible foundation, with an additional 8 feet permitted for gable end walls, or 30 feet in height with an addi-
    tional 8 feet for gable end walls where the lower 10 feet have a backing of concrete or masonry wall. See story height limitations of Section R301.3.
    d. The veneer shall not exceed 30 feet in height above a noncombustible foundation, with an additional 8 feet permitted for gable end walls. See story height limitations of
    Section R301.3.|

    R703.8.1 Interior veneer support. Veneers used as interior wall finishes shall be permitted to be supported on wood or coldformed steel floors that are designed to support the loads imposed.

    R703.8.2 Exterior veneer support. Except in Seismic Design Categories D 0, D 1 and D 2, exterior masonry veneers having an installed weight of 40 pounds per square foot (195 kg/m [2] ) or less shall be permitted to be supported on wood or cold-formed steel construction. Where masonry veneer supported by wood or cold-formed steel construction adjoins masonry veneer supported by the foundation, there shall be a movement joint between the veneer supported by the wood or cold-formed steel construction and the veneer supported by the foundation. The wood or cold-formed steel construction supporting the masonry veneer shall be designed to limit the deflection to [1] / 600 of the span for the supporting members. The design of the wood or cold-formed steel construction shall consider the weight of the veneer and any other loads. R703.8.2.1 Support by steel angle. A minimum 6-inch by 4-inch by [5] / 16 -inch (152 mm by 102 mm by 8 mm) steel angle, with the long leg placed vertically, shall be anchored to double 2-inch by 4-inch (51 mm by 102 mm) wood studs or double 350S162 cold-formed steel studs at a maximum on-center spacing of 16 inches (406 mm).

  • 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 framing and furring shall be spruce-pine-fir or any wood species with a specific gravity of 0.42 or greater in accordance with ANSI/AWC NDS.
    b. Nail fasteners shall comply with ASTM F1667, except nail length shall be permitted to exceed ASTM F1667 standard lengths.
    c. The thickness of wood structural panels complying with the specific gravity requirements of Note a shall be permitted to be included in satisfying the minimum required
    penetration into framing.
    d. 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.
    e. Foam sheathing shall have a minimum compressive strength of 15 psi in accordance with ASTM C578 or ASTM C1289.
    f. Furring shall be spaced not greater 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.|

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    1404.6 Wood veneers. Wood veneers on exterior walls of buildings of Types I, II, III and IV construction shall be not less than 1 inch (25 mm) nominal thickness, 0.438-inch (11.1 mm) exterior hardboard siding or 0.375-inch (9.5 mm) exterior-type wood structural panels or particleboard and shall conform to the following:

    1. The veneer shall not exceed 40 feet (12 190 mm) in height above grade. Where fire-retardant-treated wood is used, the height shall not exceed 60 feet (18 290 mm) in height above grade.

    2. The veneer is attached to or furred from a noncombustible backing that is fire-resistance rated as required by other provisions of this code.

    3. Where open or spaced wood veneers (without concealed spaces) are used, they shall not project more than 24 inches (610 mm) from the building wall.

    [BS] 1404.7 Anchored masonry veneer. Anchored masonry veneer shall comply with the provisions of Sections 1404.7 through 1404.10 and Sections 13.1 and 13.2 of TMS 402.

    [BS] 1404.7.1 Tolerances. Anchored masonry veneers in accordance with Chapter 14 are not required to meet the tolerances in Article 3.3 G.1 of TMS 602.

    **[BS] 1404.8 Stone veneer.

  • CBC § 1412.7.2 High relevance — show source text

    1412.7.2 Fascia installation where the design wind pressure exceeds 30 psf (1.44 kN/m [2] ). Where the design wind pressure is greater than 30 pounds per square foot (1.44 kN/m [2] ), aluminum fascia shall be attached with one finish nail (1 [1] / 4 inches × 0.057 inch × 0.177 inch head diameter) (32 mm × 1.4 mm × 4.5 mm) in the return leg spaced a maximum of 16 inches (406 mm) on center and one finish nail located not greater than 1 inch (25 mm) below the drip edge spaced a maximum of 16 inches (406 mm) on center. As an alternative, the top edge of the fascia is permitted to be secured using utility trim installed beneath the drip edge with snap locks punched into the fascia spaced not greater than 6 inches (152 mm) on center.

    SECTION 1413—[DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC, OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ANCHORED AND ADHERED VENEER

    1413.1 General. In no case shall veneer be considered as part of the backing in computing strength or deflection, nor shall it be consid- ered a part of the required thickness of the backing.

    Veneer shall be anchored in a manner which will not allow relative movement between the veneer and the wall.

    Anchored or adhered veneer shall not be used on overhead horizontal surfaces.

    1413.2 Adhered veneer. Units of tile, masonry, stone or terra cotta which exceed [5] / 8 inch (15.9 mm) in thickness shall be applied as for anchored veneer where used over exit ways or more than 20 feet (6.1 m) in height above adjacent ground elevation.

    1413.2.1 Bond strength and tests. Irrespective of the mortar type, veneer type or design methodology used, adhered masonry veneer shall develop a bond shear strength to the backing of at least 50 psi (345 kPa) based on gross unit bonded area. The bond between adhered veneer units and backing shall be shear tested, in accordance with ASTM C1823, on a field-constructed mock-up using the specified unit, mortar and substrate.

    Not less than two shear tests shall be performed for the adhered veneer between the units and the supporting element. At least one shear test shall be performed at each building for each 5,000 square feet (465 m [2] ) of wall area or fraction thereof.

    1413.2.2 TMS 402, Section 13.3.2.2. Replace TMS 402, Section 13.3.2.2 (c) with the following: (c) The weight of adhered masonry veneer units shall not exceed 15 psf (73 kg/m [2] ).

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    CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

  • CBC § 2101.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.

    SECTION 2101—GENERAL

    2101.1 Scope. This chapter shall govern the materials, design, construction and quality of masonry.

    2101.1.1 Application. [DSA-SS/CC, OSHPD] The scope of application of Chapter 21 is as follows: 1. Structures regulated by the Division of the State Architect—Structural Safety/Community Colleges (DSA-SS/CC) which include those applications listed in Section 1.9.2.2. 2. Structures regulated by the Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital planning and development (OSHPD), which include hospital buildings removed from general acute care service, skilled nursing facility buildings, intermediate care facility buildings and acute psychiatric hospital buildings listed in Sections 1.10.1, 1.10.2 and 1.10.5.

    2101.1.2 Amendments in this chapter. [DSA-SS/CC, OSHPD] DSA-SS/CC, OSHPD adopt this chapter as amended.

    2101.1.3 Identification of amendments. [DSA-SS/CC, OSHPD] 1. [DSA-SS/CC] Division of the State Architect - Structural Safety/Community Colleges amendments appear in this chapter preceded by the appropriate acronym, as follows:

    [DSA-SS/CC] – For applications listed in Section 1.9.2.2. 2. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (OSHPD) amendments appear in this chapter preceded by the appropriate acronym, as follows:

    [OSHPD 1R ] - For applications listed in Section 1.10.1.

    [OSHPD 2] - For applications listed in Section 1.10.2.

    [OSHPD 5] - For applications listed in Section 1.10.5.

    2101.1.4 Reference to other chapters. [DSA-SS/CC] Where reference within this chapter is made to sections in Chapters 17 and 18, the provisions in Chapters 17A and 18A respectively shall apply instead.

    2101.1.5 Additional amendments. [DSA-SS/CC] See Section 2115 for additional requirements.

    2101.2 Design methods. Masonry shall comply with the provisions of TMS 402, TMS 403 or TMS 404 as well as applicable requirements of this chapter. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] TMS 403 Not permitted by OSHPD.

    2101.2.1 Masonry veneer. Masonry veneer shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 14.

    2101.2.2 Prohibition. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] The following design methods, systems and materials in TMS402/602 are not permitted by OSHPD:

    1. Unreinforced masonry. 2. Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) Masonry. 3. Empirical design of masonry.

    4. Adobe construction.

  • CBC § 14-3 Medium 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 § 1404.12 Medium relevance — show source text

    [BS] 1404.12 Metal veneers. Veneers of metal shall be fabricated from approved corrosion-resistant materials or shall be protected front and back with porcelain enamel, or otherwise be treated to render the metal resistant to corrosion. Such veneers shall be not less than 0.0149-inch (0.378 mm) nominal thickness sheet steel mounted on wood or metal furring strips or approved sheathing on light-frame construction.

    [BS] 1404.12.1 Attachment. Exterior metal veneer shall be securely attached to the supporting masonry or framing members with corrosion-resistant fastenings, metal ties or by other approved devices or methods. The spacing of the fastenings or ties shall not exceed 24 inches (610 mm) either vertically or horizontally, but where units exceed 4 square feet (0.4 m [2] ) in area there shall be not less than four attachments per unit. The metal attachments shall have a cross-sectional area not less than provided by W 1.7 wire. Such attachments and their supports shall be designed and constructed to resist the wind loads as specified in Section 1609 for components and cladding.

    1404.12.2 Weather protection. Metal supports for exterior metal veneer shall be protected by painting, galvanizing or by other equivalent coating or treatment. Wood studs, furring strips or other wood supports for exterior metal veneer shall be approved pressure-treated wood or protected as required in Section 1402.2. Joints and edges exposed to the weather shall be caulked with approved durable waterproofing material or by other approved means to prevent penetration of moisture.

    1404.12.3 Backup. Masonry backup shall not be required for metal veneer unless required by the fire-resistance requirements of this code.

    1404.12.4 Grounding. Grounding of metal veneers on buildings shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 27 of this code.

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    [BS] 1404.13 Glass veneer. The area of a single section of thin exterior structural glass veneer shall not exceed 10 square feet (0.93 m [2] ) where that section is not more than 15 feet (4572 mm) above the level of the sidewalk or grade level directly below, and shall not exceed 6 square feet (0.56 m [2] ) where it is more than 15 feet (4572 mm) above that level.

    [BS] 1404.13.1 Length and height. The length or height of any section of thin exterior structural glass veneer shall not exceed 48 inches (1219 mm).

    [BS] 1404.13.2 Thickness. The thickness of thin exterior structural glass veneer shall be not less than 0.344 inch (8.7 mm).

  • CBC § 8.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    The veneer shall not exceed 30 feet in height above a noncombustible foundation, with an additional 8 feet permitted for gable end walls. See story height limitations of
    Section R301.3.|

    R703.8.1 Interior veneer support. Veneers used as interior wall finishes shall be permitted to be supported on wood or coldformed steel floors that are designed to support the loads imposed.

    R703.8.2 Exterior veneer support. Except in Seismic Design Categories D 0, D 1 and D 2, exterior masonry veneers having an installed weight of 40 pounds per square foot (195 kg/m [2] ) or less shall be permitted to be supported on wood or cold-formed steel construction. Where masonry veneer supported by wood or cold-formed steel construction adjoins masonry veneer supported by the foundation, there shall be a movement joint between the veneer supported by the wood or cold-formed steel construction and the veneer supported by the foundation. The wood or cold-formed steel construction supporting the masonry veneer shall be designed to limit the deflection to [1] / 600 of the span for the supporting members. The design of the wood or cold-formed steel construction shall consider the weight of the veneer and any other loads. R703.8.2.1 Support by steel angle. A minimum 6-inch by 4-inch by [5] / 16 -inch (152 mm by 102 mm by 8 mm) steel angle, with the long leg placed vertically, shall be anchored to double 2-inch by 4-inch (51 mm by 102 mm) wood studs or double 350S162 cold-formed steel studs at a maximum on-center spacing of 16 inches (406 mm). Anchorage of the steel angle at every double stud spacing shall be not less than two [7] / 16 -inch-diameter (11 mm) by 4-inch (102 mm) lag screws for wood construction or two 7 / 16 -inch (11.1 mm) bolts with washers for cold-formed steel construction. The steel angle shall have a minimum clearance to

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    WALL COVERING

    underlying construction of [1] / 16 inch (1.6 mm). Not less than two-thirds the width of the masonry veneer thickness shall bear on the steel angle. Flashing and weep holes shall be located in the masonry veneer in accordance with Figure R703.8.2.1. The maximum height of masonry veneer above the steel angle support shall be 12 feet 8 inches (3861 mm). The airspace separating the masonry veneer from the wood backing shall be in accordance with Sections R703.8.4 and R703.8.4.2. The method of support for the masonry veneer on wood construction shall be constructed in accordance with Figure R703.8.2.1.

    The maximum slope of the roof construction without stops shall be 7:12. Roof construction with slopes greater than 7:12 but not more than 12:12 shall have stops of a minimum 3-inch by 3-inch by [1] / 4 -inch (76 mm by 76 mm by 6.4 mm) steel plate welded to the angle at 24 inches (610 mm) on center along the angle or as approved by the building official.

  • 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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    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 § 1404.11.1.4.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    [BS] 1404.11.1.4.1 Lathing. Lathing shall comply with the requirements of Section 2510.

    [BS] 1404.11.1.4.2 Scratch coat. A nominal [1] / 2 -inch-thick (12.7 mm) layer of mortar complying with the material requirements of Sections 2103 and 2512.2 shall be applied, encapsulating the lathing. The surface of this mortar shall be scored horizontally, resulting in a scratch coat.

    [BS] 1404.11.1.4.3 Adhering veneer. The masonry veneer units shall be adhered to the mortar scratch coat with a nominal 1 / 2 -inch-thick (12.7 mm) setting bed of mortar complying with Sections 2103 and 2512.2 applied to create a full setting bed for the back of the masonry veneer units. The masonry veneer units shall be worked into the setting bed resulting in a nominal [3] / 8 -inch (9.5 mm) setting bed after the masonry veneer units are applied.

    [BS] 1404.11.1.5 Adhered masonry veneer applied directly to masonry and concrete. Adhered masonry veneer applied directly to masonry or concrete shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 1404.11 and with the requirements of Section 1404.11.1.4 or 2510.7.

    [BS] 1404.11.1.6 Cold weather construction. Cold weather construction of adhered masonry veneer shall comply with the requirements of Sections 2104 and 2512.4.

    [BS] 1404.11.1.7 Hot weather construction. Hot weather construction of adhered masonry veneer shall comply with the requirements of Section 2104.

    [BS] 1404.11.2 Exterior adhered masonry veneers—porcelain tile. Adhered units weighing more than 3.5 pounds per square foot (0.17 kN/m [2] ) shall not exceed 48 inches (1219 mm) in any face dimension nor more than 9 square feet (0.8 m [2] ) in total face area and shall not weigh more than 6 pounds per square foot (0.29 kN/m [2] ). Adhered units weighing less than or equal to 3.5 pounds per square foot (0.17 kN/m [2] ) shall not exceed 72 inches (1829 mm) in any face dimension nor more than 17.5 square feet (1.6 m [2] ) in total face area. Porcelain tile shall be adhered to an approved backing system.

    [BS] 1404.11.3 Interior adhered masonry veneers. Interior adhered masonry veneers shall have a maximum weight of 20 psf (0.958 kg/m [2] ) and shall be installed in accordance with Section 1404.11. Where the interior adhered masonry veneer is supported by wood construction, the supporting members shall be designed to limit deflection to [1] / 600 of the span of the supporting members.

  • CBC § 1412.7 Medium relevance — show source text

    1412.7 Aluminum fascia. Aluminum fascia shall comply with Section 1412.2 and shall be not less than 0.019 inches (0.48 mm) in thickness and installed in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. Aluminum fascia shall be attached to wood frame construc tion in accordance with Section 1412.7.1 or 1412.7.2.

    1412.7.1 Fascia installation where the design wind pressure is 30 psf (1.44 kN/m [2] ) or less. Where the design wind pressure is 30 pounds per square foot (1.44 kN/m [2] ) or less, aluminum fascia shall be a attached with one finish nail (1 [1] / 4 inches × 0.057 inch × 0.177 inch head diameter) (32 mm × 1.4 mm × 4.5 mm) in the return leg spaced not greater than 24 inches (610 mm) on center, and the fascia shall be inserted under the drip edge with not less than 1 inch (25 mm) of fascia material covered by the drip edge. Where the fascia cannot be inserted under the drip edge, the top edge of the fascia shall be secured using one finish nail (1 [1] / 4 inches × 0.057 inch × 0.177 inch head diameter) (32 mm × 1.4 mm × 4.5 mm) located not more than 1 inch (25 mm) below the drip edge and spaced not greater than 24 inches (610 mm) on center. 1412.7.2 Fascia installation where the design wind pressure exceeds 30 psf (1.44 kN/m [2] ). Where the design wind pressure is greater than 30 pounds per square foot (1.44 kN/m [2] ), aluminum fascia shall be attached with one finish nail (1 [1] / 4 inches × 0.057 inch × 0.177 inch head diameter) (32 mm × 1.4 mm × 4.5 mm) in the return leg spaced a maximum of 16 inches (406 mm) on center and one finish nail located not greater than 1 inch (25 mm) below the drip edge spaced a maximum of 16 inches (406 mm) on center. As an alternative, the top edge of the fascia is permitted to be secured using utility trim installed beneath the drip edge with snap locks punched into the fascia spaced not greater than 6 inches (152 mm) on center.

    SECTION 1413—[DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC, OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ANCHORED AND ADHERED VENEER

    1413.1 General. In no case shall veneer be considered as part of the backing in computing strength or deflection, nor shall it be consid- ered a part of the required thickness of the backing.

    Veneer shall be anchored in a manner which will not allow relative movement between the veneer and the wall.

    Anchored or adhered veneer shall not be used on overhead horizontal surfaces.

  • 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.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 14-5

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

  • CBC § 14-23 Medium relevance — show source text

    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

    1508 Roof Insulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15-20

    1509 Roof Coatings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15-20

    1510 Radiant Barriers Installed Above Deck . . . . . . . . . .15-21

    1511 Rooftop Structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15-21

    1512 Reroofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15-24

    1513 [DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC, OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] Seismic Anchorage of Slate Shingle, Clay and Concrete Tile Roof Coverings. . . . . . . 15-25

    INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . INDEX-1

    HISTORY NOTE TO VOLUME 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .HIST-1

    VOLUME 2

    CHAPTER 16 STRUCTURAL DESIGN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16-1

Frequently asked questions

Do Section 1413 requirements apply to all projects?

No — Section 1413 is annotated for DSA‑SS, DSA‑SS/CC and OSHPD project types; check the 1413 header and your project’s enforcing agency to confirm applicability. § 1413 (header).

What is the single most important test for adhered veneer acceptance?

Adhered veneer must demonstrate a minimum bond shear strength of 50 psi based on ASTM C1823 field mock‑up shear tests; the tests and frequency are prescribed in § 1413.2.1.

Can veneer be counted as part of the wall backing or structural thickness?

No. Section 1413.1 explicitly states veneer shall not be considered part of the backing for computing strength or deflection. § 1413.1.

What if an adhered veneer unit weighs more than 15 psf?

If adhered units exceed 15 psf, they are not permitted as adhered veneer under § 1413.2.2 and must be designed/installed as anchored veneer or otherwise re‑designed per the applicable anchored veneer provisions. § 1413.2.2.

Are there different numeric limits for interior adhered veneers?

Yes — interior adhered masonry veneers have a different maximum weight limit (20 psf) and must meet installation rules in § 1404.11. § 1404.11.3.

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