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What is the minimum thickness for a masonry bearing wall that is more than one story high?

  1. 8 inches

  2. 12 inches

  3. 16 inches

  4. 18 inches

The correct answer is: 12 inches

For a masonry bearing wall that is more than one story high, the minimum thickness is specified to be 12 inches. This thickness ensures adequate structural stability and load-bearing capacity as the wall height increases. Thicker walls can better handle the additional weight and stress exerted by the upper stories, as well as environmental factors like wind and seismic activity. Additionally, a minimum thickness of 12 inches aids in preventing issues such as cracking and excessive deflection over time, which are critical for maintaining the integrity of the building. The building codes set this standard to promote safety and longevity in construction practices, particularly for structures that must support significant weight from multiple levels.