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Simpson “Strong Brace Wall”

| Posted in Construction Techniques on September 23, 2004 07:20am

I just got a set of plans kicked back because a short section of wall at the front of the garage wasn’t anchored properly. They’re recommending calling out Simpson Strong Brace wall or Hardy Frame system in the plans (3′ wall sections on either side of the 16′ garage opening). New 2004 IRC is just taking effect here…must be part of that. Anyone in high wind areas or CA shed some light on using Strong brace wall sections?  Original design called for 1/2″ sheathing, sill anchor bolts, and hurricane clips at roof but i guess that’s not enough?  Thanks!

Jim

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  1. User avater
    oak | Sep 23, 2004 07:42pm | #1

    im not a contractor, so i can't tell you about code...

    but i live on the S.F. peninsula, and every house that i have seen being built/remodeled (where the garage is being torn down) in the past few years, i have always seen the simpson strong walls on each side of the garage door.  i also recall seeing them around different parts of the house, but i can't think of a specific example.  again, this is just driving around and what i have observed...

    thats all i can offer you... i have never even seen one up close to see how they are constructed, but i see them being used all the time around here.... 

    so either its a really popular trend, or code.

    oak

  2. kuffelcreek | Sep 23, 2004 08:26pm | #2

    The Simpson Strongwall system is used where you do not have enough shear wall to resist side-to-side loads.  They are common here in California in walls with lots of openings or on each side of the garage.

    They come in sizes ranging from 24" to 32" wide, and will set you back about $350 each.  They include two huge 7/8" bolts that have to be imbedded in a concrete block 2' square (1' of concrete all around it), as well as two 5/8" anchor bolts.  You can order a template for setting the bolts in the footings as they are poured.  They are attached to the top and bottom plates of the wall with long screws (included) and need at least 1-1/2" on either side to the edge of the footing (metal bedding plates protrude that far). They have pre-drilled holes for electrical, and weigh about 140 lbs.  The simpson web site has info on them, and they're no big deal if you read up on them first.

    1. FastEddie1 | Sep 23, 2004 09:33pm | #3

      See if you can find JLC April 2004.  Pg 75 has a nice article "Building Strng Garage Door Walls" that seems to be exactly what you are talking about.

      Whenever you are asked if you can do a job, tell'em "Certainly, I can!"  Then get busy and find out how to do it.  T. Roosevelt

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