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What is the maximum depth a stud in an exterior wall can be notched?

  1. 15 percent of width

  2. 20 percent of width

  3. 25 percent of width

  4. 30 percent of width

The correct answer is: 20 percent of width

Notching a stud is a common practice in construction, especially when dealing with wiring, plumbing, or other installations within walls. In the context of an exterior wall, it’s crucial to adhere to safety and structural integrity standards. The maximum depth a stud can be notched is established to maintain the strength of the stud while allowing for necessary modifications. Notching more than the specified depth can compromise the stud's capacity to support loads, which could lead to structural failures over time. When the standard is set at 20 percent of the stud's width, it ensures that there remains a sufficient amount of material to support structural loads. This balances the necessity of making room for utilities with the need for maintaining the wall’s structural integrity. In contrast, smaller or larger notch depths would either undermine the strength more than acceptable or be more conservative than typically required. Understanding these thresholds is essential for anyone involved in construction as it directly impacts building safety and compliance with building codes.