In California residential construction, when framing around a 6-foot wide window opening in a bearing wall, what is the minimum number of trimmer studs required on each side of the opening according to the CRC?
Correct Answer
A) Two trimmer studs on each side
CRC Table R602.7.2 requires two trimmer studs on each side of openings greater than 5 feet in width in bearing walls. For a 6-foot opening, this requirement ensures adequate support for the header load. Single trimmer studs are only permitted for openings 5 feet or less in bearing walls.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
CRC Table R602.7.2 requires two trimmer studs on each side of openings greater than 5 feet in width in bearing walls. A 6-foot opening exceeds the 5-foot threshold, triggering the double-trimmer requirement. The trimmers directly support the header ends; for wide openings the header carries more load, so two trimmers are necessary to distribute that load safely into the sole plate and foundation.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option B: The number varies based on header material used
While header material selection affects header size, it does not affect the number of trimmer studs required. CRC Table R602.7.2 determines trimmer count based on opening width, not on what type of header is used. This answer introduces an unrelated variable to distract.
Option C: Three trimmer studs on each side
Three trimmer studs per side would be excessive for a 6-foot opening under the CRC's prescriptive provisions. Three trimmers are not required by the table at this opening width; using them would waste material without a code basis.
Option D: One trimmer stud on each side
One trimmer stud per side is only permitted for openings 5 feet wide or less in bearing walls. A 6-foot opening exceeds that limit, requiring the upgrade to two trimmers per side. Using a single trimmer for a 6-foot opening in a bearing wall is a common framing error that can lead to header settlement.
Memory Technique
5 feet = 1 trimmer each side; more than 5 feet = 2 trimmers each side. Think of it as 'once you go past 5 feet, you need a partner for each side.' A 6-foot window is just over the line — two trimmers per side.
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