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Bracing

2-4. Bracing

Bracing is used to stiffen framed construction and make it rigid. Bracing is also used to resist winds, storms, twists, or strains. Good bracing keeps corners square and plumb. Bracing prevents warping, sagging, and shifting that could otherwise distort the frame and cause badly fitting doors and windows. The three methods commonly used to brace frame structures are let-in, cut-in, and diagonal-sheathing bracings. In some cases, temporary bracing may be used instead.

a. Let-In Bracing. Let-in bracing is set into the edges of studs, flush with the surface. The studs are always cut to let in the braces; the braces are never cut (see Figure 2-6 ).

Figure 2-6. Let-in bracing
Figure 2-6. Let-in bracing

b. Cut-In Bracing. Cut-in bracing is toenailed between studs. They are inserted in diagonal progression between studs running up and down from corner posts to the sole plate, top plate, or sills (see Figure 2-7 ).

Figure 2-7. Cut-in bracing
Figure 2-7. Cut-in bracing

c. Diagonal-Sheathing Bracing. The strongest type of bracing is diagonal sheathing (see Figure 2-8 ). Each board braces the wall. If plywood sheathing 5/8 inch thick or more is used, other methods of bracing may be omitted.

Figure 2-8. Sheathing used as diagonal bracing
Figure 2-8. Sheathing used as diagonal bracing

d. Temporary Bracing. Temporary bracing is placed at intervals small enough to hold the wall straight (see Figure 2-9 ). Bracing placed diagonally on the studs running from the sole plate to the top plate will increase the strength of the wall against horizontal stress (see Figure 2-10 ).

Figure 2-9. Temporary bracing
Figure 2-9. Temporary bracing

Figure 2-10. Temporary diagonal bracing
Figure 2-10. Temporary diagonal bracing

 
Curriculum design: David L. Heiserman
Publisher: SweetHaven Publishing Services

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