R602.3

Section R602.3 is titled 'Design and construction' and covers requirements for exterior wood walls. A cross-reference to 2 figures in this code which depict wall construction details, another standard which may be used as an alternative to this code, and 4 tables in this code which cover fastening requirements; sheathing attachment details, the requirement for studs to be continuous from bottom plate to top plate, and requirements for the support of exterior walls is established. The purpose of this section is to prevent structural failure. This section has an exception which allows for specific types of studs to not be continuous. The purpose of this exception is to clarify that practical framing methods are allowed.

The model shows a section of an exterior wall which has the studs continuous from bottom plate to top plate, excepting for jack and cripple studs around the window opening, and a sheet of plywood attached directly to the wall framing. The wind symbol represents that the sheathing has been designed and constructed to resist wind pressures as required by this section. (Foamboard insulation cannot be installed between the plywood and the framing - not shown in this model.)