This method is only allowed to be used for structures built under the IRC. As described in Section R602.10.5, this method is the same as Method 3 of the conventional braced wall provisions, however it allows for walls to be built narrower than 4ft provided that wood structural panel sheathing (plywood or OSB) is installed on all sheathable areas of all braced wall lines. Wall segments meeting the length requirements are designated as braced wall panels and must be placed directly at the end of each braced wall line and spaced no more than 25 feet on center and not less than a certain percentage of that wall line. The length requirement of the panel is based on the size of the opening next to the panel.

Considerations

• Additional foundation details not required
• Braced wall panel must be located directly at each end of the wall line
• All other non-braced wall panel areas of the structure must be sheathed (and nailed) per code with wood structural panel sheathing
• Wall segments next to garage openings that support light frame roofs with roof covering dead loads 3 psf or less are permitted to have lengths one-quarter the height of the wall (4:1 aspect ratio)
• Gypsum wall board is required to be installed in accordance with IRC Chapter 7 on the interior side of the wall
• Corners shall be constructed per Figure R602.10.5
• Number of braced wall panels in a single wall line is dependent on the seismic design category or wind zone (per table R602.10.1 reduced as allowed by code)