AskCodeMan

Jerry,
are there any acceptable size holes allowed in sheer paneling?

Hi Marc,

The general, basic, answer is 'no, no openings in shear walls', the more expanded and specific answer would be 'depends on the engineering'.

From the IBC:
- 2305.1.3 Openings in shear panels. Openings in shear panels that materially affect their strength shall be fully detailed on the plans, and shall have their edges adequately reinforced to transfer all shearing stresses.

The key becomes "Openings in shear panels that materially affect their strength" - and that is where the engineer comes in.

I would place it in the same category as openings through I-Joist - only allowed as allowed for on the engineering. A recent I-Joist installation I inspected was allowed to have holes, but the holes had to be spaced at least 2 times the diameter of the larger hole from any other hole (among other limitations on size and location).

I thought I saw before but didnt remember where. Thank you so much.