IRC R602 — Wood Wall Framing

Section R602.3: Design and construction — studs bearing on plates, min double top plate (single permitted with plate ties). Studs: 2x4 at 16 in o.c. for bearing walls up to 10 ft, 2x6 at 24 in o.c. permitted. Section R602.3.1: Stud size — Table R602.3(5) max stud height by size: 2x4 = 10 ft, 2x6 = 20 ft (laterally supported). Section R602.6: Drilling and notching — studs: max bore 40% of width for bearing, 60% for nonbearing. Max notch 25% bearing, 40% nonbearing. Section R602.7: Headers — per Table R602.7(1), 2-2x6 through 2-2x12 depending on span and load. Jack studs support headers. Section R602.10: Wall bracing — braced wall panels per Table R602.10.4. Methods include let-in bracing, structural sheathing (7/16 OSB or 1/2 plywood), gypsum board (limited). Braced wall line spacing max 35 ft. Section R602.8: Fireblocking — at ceiling/floor levels, at 10 ft vertical intervals, at connections between horizontal and vertical spaces.