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How much weight will a typical 8' 2x4 wall support?

76K views 25 replies 16 participants last post by  Builder Butch  
#1 ·
Does anyone know where I could find these calculations?
16" oc, plywood ext sheathing, drywall interior
 
#7 ·
Builder Butch said:
I think it is around 3000 lbs per linear foot of equally distributed down load. Lots of factors involved like point loads and keeping joist within
5" of stud, nailing patter of sheathing and drywall.
That sounds like alot.
 
#8 ·
I will take a stab at this

Do you mean 8' tall or 8' long?

Either way I think it might surprise you. One way or the other . I used a 2x4 block with my floor jack the other day to lift a whole front end of a 68 chevelle, and it was only about 2' long!
 
#10 ·
knucklehead said:
I will take a stab at this

Do you mean 8' tall or 8' long?

Either way I think it might surprise you. One way or the other . I used a 2x4 block with my floor jack the other day to lift a whole front end of a 68 chevelle, and it was only about 2' long!
Thats a good point. I have used 2xs to jack up very heavy walls and floor systems before.
 
#18 ·
sunkist said:
Nesse is alive and well, Living in LOCH NESS, But i think the man wants to know the compression factor on a unbraced 2x4, We still need to know the brand of wood?.
You need to know much more than that, like for starters what is he actually looking for? :confused:

Also what about circuses and freed wild pet elephants?
 
#19 ·
Ok did some quick calcs:thumbsup: Useing the national design specification for wood constuction, (nds) The compresssion factor a 2x4 stud made of the same wood used in the caber toss, Is 2 mature scotish elephants, Both elephants need to be on top of the caber 2x4 stud to prove me correct, :eek: The stud remains unbraced. :laughing:
 
#23 ·
Using Woodworks Sizer software... ONE 8' tall 2x4 SPF(S)#2 stud can safely carry a live load of 1100# with 1" eccentricity, continuously braced in the weak axis direction.

No stamp, no guarantee. Hire an engineer.
 
#24 ·
plumb and level would be a factor as well as quality of lumber and fastners.

Then therss always how many and how big of holes the turd herders and sparkys put into the wall......some of the walls I have seen might as well be made with 1x2s