Framing & StructuralQuestion 340 of 700
On braced/shear walls, code requires a plate washer at each anchor bolt between the sill plate and nut. A common minimum size is:
a.1 inch by 1 inch by 1/16 inch
b.3 inch by 3 inch by 0.229 inch
c.2 inch round by 1/8 inch
d.No washer is needed if a nut is used
Explanation
For braced-wall sill anchorage in seismic areas, the code commonly requires a plate washer at least 3 inch by 3 inch by 0.229 inch thick under the nut, so seismic uplift cannot pull the sill over the bolt head. A tiny 1x1 or thin round washer is inadequate, and a nut alone does not spread the load.
Law Reference: 2025 CA Residential Code §R602.11.1Practice all 700 questions free — no signup required.
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