CRC · California Residential Code
What does Chapter 7 (Wall Covering) regulate and how does it apply?
Chapter 7 of the California Residential Code governs what wall coverings you may use and how they must be installed; importantly **§ R701.2** requires that weather‑sensitive materials are not installed until there is **adequate weather protection** and that **exterior sheathing must be dry** before applying exterior cover — the section sets the rule but does not give a numeric moisture limit, so follow manufacturer guidance and local inspector standards .
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
Chapter 7 controls the design and construction of interior and exterior wall covering for buildings — in short, which coverings are permitted and how they are applied (§ R701.1) . The chapter also requires that products sensitive to adverse weather are not installed until adequate weather protection is in place and that exterior sheathing shall be dry before exterior cover is applied (§ R701.2) .
The single most important rule: Chapter 7 governs what wall coverings you may use and requires that weather-sensitive products are installed only when the site and sheathing are sufficiently protected and dry (see § R701.1 and § R701.2) .
Requirements in detail
Scope and effect (what Chapter 7 covers)
- Chapter 7 governs both interior wall coverings and exterior wall coverings — it establishes permitted materials, standards and methods of application (this is the high‑level scope in § R701.1) .
- Examples of exterior coverings regulated elsewhere in Chapter 7 include wood, fiber cement, vinyl, masonry veneer, exterior plaster and others (see Chapter 7 content and tables for the specific materials; Chapter 7 organizes those detailed provisions) .
Installation condition requirements (what you must do on site)
- Do not install weather‑sensitive products until adequate weather protection for the installation is provided (§ R701.2) .
- Exterior sheathing shall be dry before applying exterior cover (§ R701.2) .
Note: the text of § R701.2 states the performance requirements but does not define numeric moisture thresholds or a prescriptive test method; where numeric limits, test methods or “adequate” are needed, rely on the product manufacturer, accepted practice, or your local jurisdiction’s inspection guidance (the code language itself is the rule; the code does not specify a percent moisture content in these sections) .
Decision‑relevant dimensions (quick reference table)
| Decision factor | Key value / action | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Which wall coverings are governed by Chapter 7 | Interior and exterior wall coverings (materials, standards, methods) | § R701.1 |
| Weather‑sensitive products — timing of installation | Do not install until adequate weather protection is provided | § R701.2 |
| Exterior sheathing moisture condition | Sheathing must be dry before cover is applied (no numeric moisture % in § R701.2) | § R701.2 |
| Source for numeric moisture limits or test methods | Not specified in § R701.1–R701.2 — use manufacturer instructions, local inspection policy, or referenced standards elsewhere in Chapter 7 | § R701.1–R701.2 (no numeric detail) |
Exceptions & special cases
- The text of § R701.1 and § R701.2 do not list exceptions or numeric thresholds; they set the chapter’s scope and a performance requirement (i.e., “adequate weather protection” and “dry”) rather than a prescriptive exception list .
- Specific materials, installation methods, ventilated claddings, vapor‑retarder options and other special conditions are handled in later sections/tables of Chapter 7 (for example, interior covering rules in R702 and exterior cladding details in R703). For those material‑specific exceptions and methods, see the corresponding sections of Chapter 7 (e.g., § R702, § R703) .
- For renovations or partial replacements, other codes (such as the Existing Building Code) may impose additional requirements — Chapter 7’s application remains to the product and its proper installation as stated in § R701.1–R701.2; consult the applicable compliance path for retrofit work (not specified in these two sections) .
Common mistakes
- Treating “adequate weather protection” as optional. The code requires it explicitly for weather‑sensitive products (§ R701.2) . Do not rely solely on temporary tarps that do not fully protect the work area.
- Assuming “dry” has a code‑specified moisture percentage. § R701.2 requires sheathing be dry but does not provide a numeric moisture threshold; installing because “it looks dry” can lead to failures — use moisture meters, manufacturer limits, or inspector guidance rather than a guess .
- Ignoring manufacturer instructions or Chapter 7 material‑specific sections. The chapter sets scope and these site‑condition rules but the proper attachment, flashing, WRB and other details are in later sections (R702–R705 and R703 for exterior claddings) — failing to follow those leads to noncompliance even if sheathing was dry and weather protection was provided .
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: A contractor is installing fiber‑cement siding on a new wood‑framed house. The weather forecast predicts a week of light rain; the water‑resistive barrier (WRB) is installed but exterior sheathing currently reads 18% moisture content.
Steps applying the code:
- Recognize the controlling requirements: § R701.1 establishes Chapter 7 covers exterior cladding; § R701.2 requires adequate weather protection and that exterior sheathing shall be dry before applying exterior cover .
- Because § R701.2 applies, do not proceed with installing the fiber‑cement siding until you provide adequate weather protection for the installation (for example, suspend installation during the rainy period and provide temporary enclosure or work under cover) and until the sheathing has returned to an acceptable dry condition per manufacturer/inspector guidance .
- Determine acceptable dry condition: § R701.2 does not state a numeric limit. The contractor should follow the siding manufacturer’s allowable sheathing moisture content (commonly provided in product data) or the local inspector’s accepted threshold (e.g., many jurisdictions accept ≤16% but that number is not in § R701.2). If no local numeric standard exists, document manufacturer guidance and re‑measure before installation. If the sheathing drops to the agreed dry condition and weather is controlled, proceed. If not, delay until conditions comply.
Takeaway: The code requires delay or protective measures until weather protection exists and sheathing is dry — specific moisture limits are not provided in § R701.2, so rely on manufacturer/local guidance while complying with the code’s performance requirement .
Related provisions
- § R702 — Interior covering and finish requirements (installation, thickness tables, flammability limits) .
- § R703 — Exterior wall covering specifics (WRB, flashing, cladding types, masonry veneer limits) .
- § R704 — Exterior soffits and fascias (where exterior covering details affect soffit areas) .
- § R705 — BIPV systems for exterior wall coverings and fenestration (where building‑integrated PV is used as wall covering) .
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Residential Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CRC § 2025 High relevance — show source text
The prescriptive provisions of this chapter provide requirements for constructing footings and walls for foundations of wood, masonry, concrete and precast concrete. In addition to a foundation’s ability to support the required design loads, this chapter addresses several other factors that can affect foundation performance. These include controlling surface water and subsurface drainage, requiring soil tests where conditions warrant and evaluating proximity to slopes and minimum depth requirements. The chapter also provides requirements to minimize adverse effects of moisture, decay and pests in basements and crawl spaces.
Chapter 5 Floors.
Chapter 5 provides the requirements for the design and construction of floor systems that will be capable of supporting minimum required design loads. This chapter covers four different types: wood floor framing, wood floors on the ground, cold-formed steel floor framing and concrete slabs on the ground. Allowable span tables are provided that greatly simplify the determination of joist, girder and sheathing sizes for raised floor systems of wood framing and cold-formed steel framing. This chapter also contains prescriptive requirements for wood-framed exterior decks and their attachment to the main building.
Chapter 6 Wall Construction.
Chapter 6 contains provisions that regulate the design and construction of walls. The wall construction covered in Chapter 6 consists of five different types: wood framed, cold-formed steel framed, masonry, concrete and structural insulated panel (SIP). The primary concern of this chapter is the structural integrity of wall construction and transfer of all imposed loads to the supporting structure. This chapter provides the requirements for the design and construction of wall systems that are capable of supporting the minimum design vertical loads (dead, live and snow loads) and lateral loads (wind or seismic loads). This chapter contains the prescriptive requirements for wall bracing and/or shear walls to resist the imposed lateral loads due to wind and seismic activity.
Chapter 6 also regulates exterior windows and doors installed in walls. This chapter contains criteria for the performance of exterior windows and doors and includes provisions for testing and labeling, garage doors, windborne debris protection and anchorage details.
Chapter 7 Wall Covering.
Chapter 7 contains provisions for the design and construction of interior and exterior wall coverings. This chapter establishes the various types of materials, materials standards and methods of application permitted for use as interior coverings, including interior plaster, gypsum board, ceramic tile, wood veneer paneling, hardboard paneling, wood shakes and wood shingles. Chapter 7 also contains requirements for the use of vapor retarders for moisture control in walls.
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Exterior wall coverings provide the weather-resistant exterior envelope that protects the building’s interior from the elements. Chapter 7 provides the requirements for wind resistance and water-resistive barrier for exterior wall coverings. This chapter prescribes the exterior wall coverings as well as the water-resistive barrier required beneath the exterior materials. 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.
Chapter 8 Roof-Ceiling Construction.
CRC § 2025 High relevance — show source text
Chapter 6 also regulates exterior windows and doors installed in walls. This chapter contains criteria for the performance of exterior windows and doors and includes provisions for testing and labeling, garage doors, windborne debris protection and anchorage details.
Chapter 7 Wall Covering.
Chapter 7 contains provisions for the design and construction of interior and exterior wall coverings. This chapter establishes the various types of materials, materials standards and methods of application permitted for use as interior coverings, including interior plaster, gypsum board, ceramic tile, wood veneer paneling, hardboard paneling, wood shakes and wood shingles. Chapter 7 also contains requirements for the use of vapor retarders for moisture control in walls.
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Exterior wall coverings provide the weather-resistant exterior envelope that protects the building’s interior from the elements. Chapter 7 provides the requirements for wind resistance and water-resistive barrier for exterior wall coverings. This chapter prescribes the exterior wall coverings as well as the water-resistive barrier required beneath the exterior materials. 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.
Chapter 8 Roof-Ceiling Construction.
Chapter 8 regulates the design and construction of roof-ceiling systems. This chapter contains two roof-ceiling framing systems: wood framing and cold-formed steel framing. Allowable span tables are provided to simplify the selection of rafter and ceiling joist size for wood roof framing and cold-formed steel framing. Chapter 8 also provides requirements for the application of ceiling finishes, the proper ventilation of concealed spaces in roofs (e.g., enclosed attics and rafter spaces), unvented attic assemblies and attic access.
Chapter 9 Roof Assemblies.
Chapter 9 regulates the design and construction of roof assemblies. A roof assembly includes the roof deck, vapor retarder, substrate or thermal barrier, insulation, vapor retarder and roof covering. This chapter provides the requirement for wind resistance of roof coverings.
The types of roof covering materials and installation regulated by Chapter 9 are: asphalt shingles, clay and concrete tile, metal roof shingles, mineral-surfaced roll roofing, slate and slate-type shingles, wood shakes and shingles, built-up roofs, metal roof panels, modified bitumen roofing, thermoset and thermoplastic single-ply roofing, sprayed polyurethane foam roofing, liquid applied coatings and photovoltaic shingles. Chapter 9 also provides requirements for roof drainage, flashing, above deck thermal insulation, rooftop-mounted photovoltaic systems and recovering or replacing an existing roof covering.
Chapter 10 Chimneys and Fireplaces.
Chapter 10 contains requirements for the safe construction of masonry chimneys and fireplaces and establishes the standards for the use and installation of factory-built chimneys, fireplaces and masonry heaters. Chimneys and fireplaces constructed of masonry rely on prescriptive requirements for the details of their construction; the factory-built type relies on the listing and labeling method of approval. Chapter 10 provides the requirements for seismic reinforcing and anchorage of masonry fireplaces and chimneys.
Chapter 11 [RE] Energy Efficiency.
Chapter 11 is not adopted in California. See California Energy Code, Title 24, Part 6.
Chapter 12 Mechanical Administration.
CRC § 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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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, CRC § 1.11. High relevance — show source text
CHAPTER 7 – FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM Col5 HCD Col7 Col8 DSA Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGT-24 T-19* 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 Adopt Entire Chapter Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended sections
listed below)X Adopt only those sections that
are listed below[California Code of Regulations,
Title 19, Division 1]Chapter / Section 709 X - The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Fire Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
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User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 7 provides requirements to maintain the fire-resistance ratings of building elements and to limit fire spread. Section 701 addresses the maintenance of and owner’s responsibility for construction elements such as fire barriers and smoke barriers. The rest of the chapter deals with various aspects that also must be maintained to achieve overall fire resistance of the main fire- and smoke-resistive features. These include penetrations, joint protection, door and window openings, and duct and air transfer opening protection.
SECTION 701—GENERAL
CRC § 5.1 High relevance — show source text
5.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |705.2.3.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |705.5|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |Table 705.5|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |705.13|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |Table 706.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |Table 707.3.10|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |707.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |708.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |708.3|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |709.3|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |709.5|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |709.5.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |710.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |710.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |710.8|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |716.2.2.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |716.2.6.6|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |716.2.9.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |717.5.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |717.5.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |717.5.4.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |717.5.5|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |721.2||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |7_21.2.1_||||X|X||||||||||||||||||||
The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
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User notes:
About this chapter: Chapter 7 provides detailed requirements for fire-resistance-rated construction, including structural members, walls, partitions and horizontal assemblies. Other portions of the code describe where certain fire-resistance-rated elements are required. This chapter specifies how these elements are constructed, how openings in walls and partitions are protected and how penetrations of such elements are protected.
SECTION 701—GENERAL
701.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the materials, systems and assemblies used for structural fire resistance and fire-resistance-rated construction separation of adjacent spaces to safeguard against the spread of fire and smoke within a building and the spread of fire to or from buildings.
SECTION 702—MULTIPLE-USE FIRE ASSEMBLIES
702.1 Multiple-use fire assemblies. Fire assemblies that serve multiple purposes in a building shall comply with all of the requirements that are applicable for each of the individual fire assemblies.
SECTION 703—FIRE-RESISTANCE RATINGS AND FIRE TESTS
703.1 Scope. Materials prescribed herein for fire resistance shall conform to the requirements of this chapter.
CRC § 1.5. High relevance — show source text
For openings less than or equal to 6 feet in
height that have both a head track and a sill track, the spans are permitted to be multiplied by a factor of 1.5.
d. Minimum Grade 33 ksi steel shall be used for 33 mil and 43 mil thicknesses. Minimum Grade 50 ksi steel shall be used for 54 and 68 mil thicknesses.|For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection limit:L/240.
b. Head and sill track spans are based on components and cladding wind pressures and 48-inch tributary span.
c. For openings less than 4 feet in height that have both a head track and sill track, the spans are permitted to be multiplied by 1.75. For openings less than or equal to 6 feet in
height that have both a head track and a sill track, the spans are permitted to be multiplied by a factor of 1.5.
d. Minimum Grade 33 ksi steel shall be used for 33 mil and 43 mil thicknesses. Minimum Grade 50 ksi steel shall be used for 54 and 68 mil thicknesses.|For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection limit:L/240.
b. Head and sill track spans are based on components and cladding wind pressures and 48-inch tributary span.
c. For openings less than 4 feet in height that have both a head track and sill track, the spans are permitted to be multiplied by 1.75. For openings less than or equal to 6 feet in
height that have both a head track and a sill track, the spans are permitted to be multiplied by a factor of 1.5.
d. Minimum Grade 33 ksi steel shall be used for 33 mil and 43 mil thicknesses. Minimum Grade 50 ksi steel shall be used for 54 and 68 mil thicknesses.|For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection limit:L/240.
b. Head and sill track spans are based on components and cladding wind pressures and 48-inch tributary span.
c. For openings less than 4 feet in height that have both a head track and sill track, the spans are permitted to be multiplied by 1.75. For openings less than or equal to 6 feet in
height that have both a head track and a sill track, the spans are permitted to be multiplied by a factor of 1.5.
d. Minimum Grade 33 ksi steel shall be used for 33 mil and 43 mil thicknesses.CRC § 5-14 High relevance — show source text
Floors (On Ground) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14
R505 Cold-Formed Steel Floor Framing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14
R506 Concrete Floors (On Ground) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-26
R507 Exterior Decks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-26
CHAPTER 6 WALL CONSTRUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
R601 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
R602 Wood Wall Framing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
R603 Cold-Formed Steel Wall Framing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-53
R604 Wood Structural Panels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-93
R605 Particleboard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-93
R606 General Masonry Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-93
R607 Glass Unit Masonry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-106
R608 Exterior Concrete Wall Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . 6-107
R609 Exterior Windows and Doors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-172
R610 Structural Insulated Panel Wall Construction . . . 6-175
CHAPTER 7 WALL COVERING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
R701 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
R702 Interior Covering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
R703 Exterior Wall Covering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10
R704 Exterior Soffits and Fascias. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-32
R705 BIPV Systems for Exterior Wall Coverings and Fenestration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-35
CHAPTER 8 ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
CRC § 7-8 High relevance — show source text
The insulation materials used to satisfy
this option also contribute to but do not supersede the thermal envelope requirements of Chapter 11.|7-8 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE
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WALL COVERING
TABLE R702.7(4)—CONTINUOUS INSULATION WITH CLASS I OR II RESPONSIVE VAPOR RETARDER Col2 CLIMATE ZONE PERMITTED CONDITIONSa 3 Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 2. 4, 5 and 6 Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 3 over 2 × 4 wall.
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 5 over 2 × 6 wall.7 Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 5 over 2 × 4 wall.
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 7.5 over 2 × 6 wall.8 Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 7.5 over 2 × 4 wall.
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 10 over 2 × 6 wall.a. The requirements in this table apply only to insulation used to control moisture in order to permit the use of Class II vapor retarders. The insulation materials used to satisfy
this option also contribute to but do not supersede the thermal envelope requirements of Chapter 11.a. The requirements in this table apply only to insulation used to control moisture in order to permit the use of Class II vapor retarders. The insulation materials used to satisfy
this option also contribute to but do not supersede the thermal envelope requirements of Chapter 11.TABLE R702.7(5)—CONTINUOUS INSULATION ON WALLS WITHOUT A CLASS I, II OR III INTERIOR VAPOR RETARDERa Col2 CLIMATE ZONE PERMITTED CONDITIONSb, c 4 Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 4.5 5 Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 6.5 6 Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 8.5 7 Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 11.5 8 Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 14 a. The total insulating value of materials to the interior side of the exterior continuous insulation, including any cavity insulation, shall not exceed R-5. Where the R-value of
materials to the interior side of the exterior continuous insulation exceeds R-5, an approved design shall be required.
b. A water vapor control material layer having a permeance not greater than 1 perm in accordance with ASTM E96 Procedure A (dry cup) shall be placed on the exterior side of
the wall and to the interior side of the exterior continuous insulation. The exterior continuous insulation shall be permitted to serve as the vapor control layer where, at its
installed thickness or with a facer on its interior face, the exterior continuous insulation is a Class I or II vapor retarder.
c. The requirements in this table apply only to insulation used to control moisture in order to allow walls without a Class I, II or III interior vapor retarder. The insulation materi-
als used to satisfy this option also contribute to but do not supersede the thermal envelope requirements of the_California Energy Code_.a. The total insulating value of materials to the interior side of the exterior continuous insulation, including any cavity insulation, shall not exceed R-5. CRC § 6-106 High relevance — show source text
R607 Glass Unit Masonry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-106
R608 Exterior Concrete Wall Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . 6-107
R609 Exterior Windows and Doors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-172
R610 Structural Insulated Panel Wall Construction . . . 6-175
CHAPTER 7 WALL COVERING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
R701 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
R702 Interior Covering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3
R703 Exterior Wall Covering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-10
R704 Exterior Soffits and Fascias. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-32
R705 BIPV Systems for Exterior Wall Coverings and Fenestration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-35
CHAPTER 8 ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION. . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
R801 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
R802 Wood Roof Framing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
R803 Roof Sheathing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-30
R804 Cold-Formed Steel Roof Framing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-31
R805 Ceiling Finishes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-44
R806 Roof Ventilation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-44
R807 Attic Access. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-46
CHAPTER 9 ROOF ASSEMBLIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-3
R901 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
R902 Fire Classification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
CRC § 11.25 High relevance — show source text
5 over 2 × 4 wall.| |6|Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 11.25 over 2 × 6 wall.| |7|Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 10 over 2 × 4 wall.| |7|Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 15 over 2 × 6 wall.| |8|Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 12.5 over 2 × 4 wall.
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 20 over 2 × 6 wall.| |a. Vented cladding shall include vinyl, polypropylene, or horizontal aluminum siding, brick veneer with a clear airspace as specified in Table R703.8.4(1), rainscreen systems
and other approved vented claddings.
b. The requirements in this table apply only to insulation used to control moisture in order to permit the use of Class III vapor retarders. The insulation materials used to satisfy
this option also contribute to but do not supersede the thermal envelope requirements of Chapter 11.|a. Vented cladding shall include vinyl, polypropylene, or horizontal aluminum siding, brick veneer with a clear airspace as specified in Table R703.8.4(1), rainscreen systems
and other approved vented claddings.
b. The requirements in this table apply only to insulation used to control moisture in order to permit the use of Class III vapor retarders. The insulation materials used to satisfy
this option also contribute to but do not supersede the thermal envelope requirements of Chapter 11.|7-8 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE
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WALL COVERING
TABLE R702.7(4)—CONTINUOUS INSULATION WITH CLASS I OR II RESPONSIVE VAPOR RETARDER Col2 CLIMATE ZONE PERMITTED CONDITIONSa 3 Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 2. 4, 5 and 6 Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 3 over 2 × 4 wall.
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 5 over 2 × 6 wall.7 Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 5 over 2 × 4 wall.
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 7.5 over 2 × 6 wall.8 Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 7.5 over 2 × 4 wall.
Continuous insulation with_R_-value ≥ 10 over 2 × 6 wall.a. The requirements in this table apply only to insulation used to control moisture in order to permit the use of Class II vapor retarders. The insulation materials used to satisfy
this option also contribute to but do not supersede the thermal envelope requirements of Chapter 11.a. The requirements in this table apply only to insulation used to control moisture in order to permit the use of Class II vapor retarders. The insulation materials used to satisfy
this option also contribute to but do not supersede the thermal envelope requirements of Chapter 11.CRC § 307.1 High relevance — show source text
[HCD 1-AC] Accessibility requirements for covered multifamily dwellings, as defined in Chapter 2 of the California Building Code, are promulgated under HCD authority and are located in Chapter 11A of the California Building Code.
SECTION 307—SMOKE ALARMS
307.1 Smoke alarms. Where an alteration, addition, change of occupancy or relocation of a building is made to an existing building or structure of a Group R and I-1 occupancy, the existing building shall be provided with smoke alarms in accordance with the California Fire Code or Section R310 of the California Residential Code .
Exception: Work classified as Level 1 Alterations in accordance with Chapter 7.
SECTION 308—CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTION
308.1 Carbon monoxide detection. Where an addition, alteration, change of occupancy or relocation of a building is made to an existing building, the existing building shall be provided with carbon monoxide detection in accordance with the California Fire Code or Section R311 of the California Residential Code .
3-6 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE
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PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS
308.2 Carbon monoxide alarms in existing portions of a building. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 17926, carbon monoxide detection shall be provided in all existing Group R buildings, as required in Section 915 of the California Building Code or Section R315 of the California Residential Code, as applicable.
308.2.1 Carbon monoxide detection in existing Group E occupancy buildings. Where the new addition includes any of the conditions identified in the California Fire Code Sections 915.1.2 through 915.1.6, carbon monoxide detection shall be installed in accordance with Section 915 of the California Fire Code. No person shall install, market, distribute, offer for sale, or sell any carbon monoxide device in the State of California unless the device and instructions have been approved and listed by the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
SECTION 309—ADDITIONS AND REPLACEMENTS OF EXTERIOR WALL COVERINGS AND EXTERIOR WALL ENVELOPES
309.1 General. The provisions of Section 309 apply to all alterations, repairs, additions, relocations of structures and changes of occupancy regardless of compliance method.
309.2 Additions and replacements. Where an exterior wall covering or exterior wall envelope is added or replaced, the materials and methods used shall comply with the requirements for new construction in Chapter 14 and Chapter 26 of the California Building Code if the added or replaced exterior wall covering or exterior wall envelope involves two or more contiguous stories and comprises more than 15 percent of the total wall area on any side of the building.
309.2.1 Automatic sprinkler systems. Combustible exterior wall covering or combustible exterior wall envelopes shall not be added to an existing high-rise building that is not protected throughout with an automatic sprinkler system.
Exceptions:
- Where such material is located on a single story and is less than 15 percent of the wall area on any side of the building.
- Water-resistive barriers installed in accordance with Section 1402.6 of the California Building Code .
CRC § 10-8 Medium relevance — show source text
000|10-8|12-6|9-8|10-0|9-0|8-2|7-7|6-4|6-2| |24|2-#4
1-#6|60,000|12-11|15-2|11-9|12-2|11-0|9-11|9-3|7-8|7-6| |24|2-#5|40,000|15-2|17-9|13-9|14-3|12-10|11-7|10-10|9-0|8-9| |24|2-#5|60,000|18-4|21-6|16-7|17-3|15-6|14-0|13-1|10-4|10-0| |24|2-#6|40,000|18-0|21-1|16-4|16-11|14-10|12-9|11-8|9-2|8-11| |24|2-#6|60,000|21-7|25-4|19-2|20-4|17-2|14-9|13-4|10-4|10-0| |24|Center distance_A_k, l|Center distance_A_k, l|4-6|6-2|3-8|4-0|3-3|2-8|2-3|1-7|1-6| |For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, Grade 40 = 280 MPa, Grade 60 = 420 MPa.
a. See Table R608.3 for tolerances permitted from nominal thickness.
b. Table values are based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi. See Note j.
c. Table values are based on uniform loading. See Section R608.8.2 for lintels supporting concentrated loads.
d. Deflection criterion is_L_/240, where_L_ is the clear span of the lintel in inches, or1/2 inch, whichever is less.
e. Linear interpolation is permitted between ground snow loads and between lintel depths.
f. DR indicates design required.
g. Lintel depth,D, is permitted to include the available height of wall located directly above the lintel, provided that the increased lintel depth spans the entire length of the
lintel.
h. Stirrups shall be fabricated from reinforcing bars with the same yield strength as that used for the main longitudinal reinforcement.
i. Allowable clear span without stirrups applicable to all lintels of the same depth,D. Top and bottom reinforcement for lintels without stirrups shall be not less than the least
amount of reinforcement required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups. All other spans require stirrups spaced at not more than_d_/2.
j. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, clear spans for lintels without stirrups shall be permitted to be multiplied by 1.05.
Frequently asked questions
What does “adequate weather protection” mean in § R701.2?
The code requires adequate weather protection but does not define it numerically in § R701.2; it means providing a level of protection that prevents damage to weather‑sensitive products during installation (temporary enclosures, covered work, or scheduling to avoid wet conditions). Use manufacturer instructions and local inspector guidance for specifics .
Does § R701.2 specify a maximum moisture content for sheathing?
No. § R701.2 requires that exterior sheathing shall be dry before cover is applied but does not include a numeric moisture percentage or test method. Use manufacturer limits or local jurisdiction/inspection policy for numeric thresholds .
If my sheathing is wet but I install a WRB, am I compliant with § R701.2?
No. Installing the water‑resistive barrier alone does not satisfy § R701.2 if sheathing is not dry; the section requires sheathing be dry before exterior cover is applied. You must either dry the sheathing or delay/cover the installation per the code requirement .
Where are the specific fastening, flashing and attachment rules for a given cladding?
Those material‑specific rules live in the subsequent sections of Chapter 7 (for example § R702 for interior finishes and § R703 for exterior wall coverings) — consult those sections and the manufacturer’s installation instructions for the detailed prescriptive requirements .
Who decides when “adequate weather protection” is met?
Enforcement/inspection is by the local building department. Inspectors will verify that weather‑sensitive products were not installed in violation of § R701.2; where the code leaves details open, inspectors commonly rely on manufacturer guidance and accepted construction practice .
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