Slide 53 of 67
Notes:
Locate Panel on the Center of Framing Member & Blocking
- We have discussed framing and plywood sheathing quality.
- Now let us discuss how the sheathing must be attached to the framing.
- To perform the best, the panel edges should:
- Have a 1/8-inch spacing between panel edges and
- Be centered on all framing members
- If panels are not properly spaced:
- Expansion and contraction from moisture and temperature changes will cause buckling.
- Buckling reduces shear wall performance and can damage wall finishes.
- Fastener edge distance:
- The greater the fastener edge distances in the lumber and sheathing, the better the shear wall will perform.
- Fasteners installed too close to the edge of the sheathing, blocking or framing member have no value.
- Do I need to install the sheathing perpendicular to the framing members?
- Unlike unblocked floor and roof diaphragms, shear wall strength values in the UBC do not change with orientation of the panel.
- The figure shows that either vertical or horizontal placement of the individual panel is acceptable.
- Most panels are installed vertically to avoid the added expense of blocking. Straight up and down means less blocking will be required.
- Can I place the sheathing on the inside of the wall?
- Sheathing for shear walls may be placed on either the interior or exterior face of the wall framing.
- Wood structural panel sheathing is usually placed on the exterior for new construction and the interior for retrofit work.
- For new construction, work of other trades, like insulation and electrical is generally easier when the interior is accessible.
- For retrofit work, the interior wall surfaces are usually cheaper to replace.
- The shear wall will have the same strength with the sheathing on either side of the wall.
