Video highlights the importance of code-required wall bracing as a component of resilient wall construction
The Engineered Wood Association (APA) has produced a new online video designed to educate builders and designers about the wall bracing requirements of the International Residential Code (IRC). In Wall Bracing: Satisfy the Code With Strong, Resilient, Fully Sheathed Walls, Senior Engineered Wood Specialist Bob Clark provides an overview of wall bracing methods required by the IRC that are designed to support a house against lateral loads such as high winds and earthquakes.
“Lateral resistance must be planned during design and built into the structure during construction,” reports Clark. “Experience has taught us how structures can be designed and built to resist wind and seismic events, and protect not only the inhabitants, but also the integrity of the structure.”
The video runs about five and one half minutes and provides a general introduction to wall bracing concepts. Also featured in the video is the APA online Wall Line Bracing Calculator. This tool is intended to simplify the design of residential structures that comply with 2009, 2012 and 2015 International Residential Code (IRC) wall bracing requirements. This free calculator is available at www.apawood.org/calculator.
The Wall Bracing video and extensive additional information on resilient wall bracing are available at www.apawood.org/walls. This site compiles APA’s extensive library of free wall-construction content—including design recommendations, how-to instructions, CAD details for wood-frame construction and more—into one convenient location.
