California Residential Inspector Practice Exam

What is the maximum spacing allowed for a 2 x 4 wood stud bearing wall that is 10 feet high and supports two floors plus a roof-ceiling assembly?

1. 16 inches

2. 24 inches

3. 12 inches

4. Not allowed

The correct answer is: Not allowed

The maximum spacing for studs in a load-bearing wall is determined by the structural requirements needed to ensure the wall can adequately support the weight of the floors and roof above. In the case of a 2x4 wood stud bearing wall that is 10 feet high and must support two floors plus a roof-ceiling assembly, building codes and engineering standards indicate that proper spacing must be adhered to in order to maintain structural integrity. Typically, a 2x4 wood stud should be spaced no more than 16 inches apart on center to ensure it can carry the load effectively. This spacing is critical in ensuring that the wall can adequately distribute the loads exerted on it and maintain stability, especially in multi-story applications. If a spacing of 24 inches were allowed for such a heavy load, it could compromise the wall's ability to handle the structural demands. Additionally, the spacing of 12 inches may be overly conservative and is not commonly required for standard residential construction unless specified for particular loading conditions or design requirements. Given these structural considerations, the option stating "Not allowed" is the most appropriate choice for the scenario provided, as it highlights that a 2x4 wood stud bearing wall with the specified height and load must adhere to tighter spacing requirements than those