9.23.11.3.(4)

Intent 1:

To supersede the requirement for top plates stated in Sentence (1) and permit lintels with splices to serve the function of the top plates.

These minimum dimensions for metal splices, and wood splices and their fasteners are to limit the probability of discontinuous support at the ends of lintels, which could lead to lintels being unable to resist expected lateral loads, which could lead to the excessive deflection or failure of walls.

Where wood-frame construction supports or is part of an environmental separator, this is to limit the probability of the displacement or failure of required environmental separation elements, which could lead to:

• condensation,
• precipitation ingress,
• excessive heat transfer,
• pollutant ingress, or
• compromised thermal performance of components intended to resist heat transfer.

This is to limit the probability of:

• inadequate control of temperatures of interior spaces, drafts, relative humidity or water accumulation,
• the generation of pollutants from biological growth or from materials that become unstable on wetting, or
• deterioration, which could lead to further compromised integrity of environmental separators.

This is to limit the probability of:

• negative effects on the air quality of indoor spaces,
• the inadequate thermal comfort of persons, and
• contact with moisture.

This is to limit the probability of harm to persons.