What are the IRC requirments for bracing/blocking in a load-bearing 2×6 stud wall that is 12′ high

code-complianceframing

When building an exterior load bearing wall 12' high, using 2×6's, is there horizontal blocking/bracing required between the studs? If so, what are the requirements for that? ie. how many per cavity, do they stand on end or go flat, etc? IRC 2012.

Best Answer

If I remember right, any stud section that is over 10' tall needs blocking. Any place I have seen, has been in the center of the height, placed flat so it completely blocks the cavity. It is for fire stopping I believe, perhaps structural as well.