Framing & StructuralQuestion 300 of 700
When nailing wall sheathing, what is the BEST reason to follow the specified closer edge-nail spacing (for example 6 inches) rather than a wider spacing?
a.It reduces the number of studs required
b.It transfers shear and prevents panel edges from buckling or pulling loose under lateral load
c.It eliminates the need for a water-resistive barrier
d.It allows thinner sheathing everywhere
Explanation
Edge nailing develops a wall's shear capacity; closer edge spacing keeps panel edges tight to the framing and transfers lateral (wind/seismic) load without buckling or nail pull-through. It does not change stud count, replace the WRB, or by itself permit thinner sheathing.
Law Reference: 2025 CA Residential Code §R602.3Practice all 700 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- When wood structural panel subfloor or sheathing is installed, what approximate gap is customarily left at panel edges and ends for expansion?
- For maximum stiffness, how should the long dimension (face grain) of wood structural floor panels normally be oriented relative to the supports?
- On a roof deck of wood structural panels installed without tongue-and-groove edges or solid blocking, what device is commonly used along unsupported panel edges to keep adjacent panels flush?
- For wood structural panel sheathing, how far should nails typically penetrate into the framing member to be effective?
- A glued-and-nailed subfloor squeaks after installation. Which construction detail MOST directly reduces the squeaks?
- Which panel-joint practice BEST avoids a continuous weak line across a subfloor or roof deck?
Last reviewed: · editorial process
PrepPass Editorial Team · Verified against California CSLB General Building (B) Trade Examination · How we review