Which code reference is associated with the 36-inch spacing requirement for metal ties in masonry cavity walls?

Which code reference is associated with the 36-inch spacing requirement for metal ties in masonry cavity walls?

• A. OSHA: 1926.1202
• B. IRC: R606.13.2.1
• C. IBC: 1809.5
• D. Modern masonry pg 222

Answer: (B)

The concept being tested is where the specific spacing rule for masonry cavity-wall ties is found in the codes. In masonry cavity walls, metal ties connect the veneer to the backing wythe and must be spaced adequately to transfer loads and keep the veneer from bowing or separating. The best reference is the International Residential Code, which includes a dedicated provision for masonry veneer ties. In that code, the clause R606.13.2.1 sets the spacing for veneer ties at 36 inches on center. That direct citation is why this code reference is associated with the 36-inch spacing requirement. The other options aren’t about the veneer-tie spacing requirement: one is a safety regulation for construction practices, and the others are different building code provisions or unrelated sources.

The concept being tested is where the specific spacing rule for masonry cavity-wall ties is found in the codes. In masonry cavity walls, metal ties connect the veneer to the backing wythe and must be spaced adequately to transfer loads and keep the veneer from bowing or separating.

The best reference is the International Residential Code, which includes a dedicated provision for masonry veneer ties. In that code, the clause R606.13.2.1 sets the spacing for veneer ties at 36 inches on center. That direct citation is why this code reference is associated with the 36-inch spacing requirement.

The other options aren’t about the veneer-tie spacing requirement: one is a safety regulation for construction practices, and the others are different building code provisions or unrelated sources.