California Residential Inspector Practice Exam

What is the maximum allowable span for a 2-2 x 10 header in an interior bearing wall supporting two floors with a building width of 12 feet?

1. 5' - 5"

2. 5' - 9"

3. 5' - 11"

4. 6' - 1"

The correct answer is: 5' - 11"

In residential construction, headers play a crucial role in supporting loads from above, including the weight of floors and roofs. The maximum allowable span for a header is determined by various factors, including the material specifications, load conditions, and spacing of supporting elements. In this case, a 2x10 header is required to support the loads from two floors. The span referred to in the question is important because it is the distance that the header must bridge without additional support. For a 2x10 header in a wall that supports two floors and given the specified conditions, a span of 5 feet 11 inches is within the allowable limits for this type of header in typical residential construction. Using span charts, which are derived from building codes and engineering standards, we can determine that a 2x10 header can effectively support the specified loads up to this span, making it functional and compliant with safety standards. This span provides adequate structural strength, ensuring that the header can carry the necessary loads while accounting for factors like material strength and safety margins. Understanding these principles helps in making informed decisions about header sizing and placement in residential framing, avoiding potential structural issues.