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You're reviewing plans for a wood-framed structure in seismic design category D. The project calls for a shear wall with 15/32-inch structural sheathing and 8d nails spaced 6 inches on center at panel edges. What is the allowable shear value per the CBC?

Correct Answer

D) 530 plf

Per CBC Table 2306.4.1, 15/32-inch structural sheathing with 8d nails at 6-inch spacing at panel edges provides 530 plf allowable shear capacity.

Answer Options
A
665 plf
B
460 plf
C
350 plf
D
530 plf

Why This Is the Correct Answer

According to CBC Table 2306.4.1, a shear wall with 15/32-inch structural sheathing and 8d nails spaced 6 inches on center at panel edges provides an allowable shear capacity of 530 plf. This specification is commonly used in seismic design category D construction where higher shear values are required for structural integrity and earthquake resistance.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

Option A: 665 plf

665 plf exceeds the allowable shear capacity for this nail spacing and sheathing thickness combination. This value would require either closer nail spacing (like 4 inches on center) or different fastener specifications to achieve such high shear resistance.

Option B: 460 plf

460 plf is too low for the specified configuration. This shear value would typically correspond to wider nail spacing or thinner sheathing material, not the 15/32-inch sheathing with 6-inch nail spacing described in the question.

Option C: 350 plf

350 plf significantly underestimates the shear capacity. This lower value would be associated with much wider nail spacing or different sheathing materials, not meeting the structural requirements for seismic design category D construction.

Memory Technique

Remember '530 for 6-inch spacing' - the shear value 530 plf pairs with 6-inch nail spacing for 15/32-inch sheathing in seismic applications.

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