What is let-in diagonal bracing?
Let-in diagonal bracing is used with nonstructural sheathing to provide lateral resistance to a light wood frame. Prescriptive codes still allow: 1″x4″ diagonal bracing, diagonal board sheathing and plywood sheathing as wall-bracing options.
What is let-in bracing?
A let-in brace is a way of bracing studs around a window, or other places where cut off studs are used. The let-in brace is comprised of four boards placed in a large diamond pattern around a window. “Let-in” means that the studs are cut to make way for the braces.
What does let-in Mean in framing?
A let-in brace is a structural member inlaid on a diagonal angle in wall framing. The let-in brace provides lateral strength for the wall.
Can I cut diagonal bracing?
It’s best if the head of the nail is flush with the wood. Years ago carpenters would put in the diagonal brace you saw by mortising it into the wall studs. If you ever see one of these braces in a wall, never ever cut into it. Pay attention to the way the exterior OSB sheathing is applied to your home.
What kind of bracing is used for wood?
Let-in diagonal bracing is used with nonstructural sheathing to provide lateral resistance to a light wood frame. Prescriptive codes still allow: 1″x4″ diagonal bracing, diagonal board sheathing and plywood sheathing as wall-bracing options.
Which is the best material for diagonal bracing?
Plywood or oriented strand board (OSB) properly nailed will also provide excellent diagonal bracing. You typically only have to put one full sheet of plywood at each corner of a wall to provide the needed stability. Old carpenters sometimes put in let-in bracing where they mortise in a 1×4 into the wall studs.
Where do you put a diagonal brace on a wall?
Old carpenters sometimes put in let-in bracing where they mortise in a 1×4 into the wall studs. This brace travel diagonally across the wall studs from the top to the bottom plate. It’s time consuming to install.
Is there a building code for diagonal bracing?
Be aware there are very strict building code guidelines with respect to diagonal bracing. The code almost always dictates the type of nail, length, shape of the head, special coatings, etc. The reason is simple: Diagonal bracing is mission critical to the structural stability of a building.