What percentage of their depth may load bearing studs be notched?

Load-bearing studs are critical structural components in walls, providing support for the weight above them, such as roofs and upper floors. Notching load-bearing studs can weaken them, which is why building codes specify limits on how much of their depth may be removed or altered.

In most building codes, including those followed in North Carolina, the maximum allowable notch on a load-bearing stud is typically 25% of its depth. This percentage is determined based on engineering principles that assess how notching affects the structural integrity of the studs. Reducing more than this amount significantly increases the risk of structural failure under load, compromising the wall's ability to support weight and ensuring safety.

Notching up to 25% allows for the necessary electrical and plumbing installations that may need to pass within the walls without undermining the wall's stability. Therefore, understanding these percentages is crucial for compliance with safe building practices and maintaining the structural integrity of residential construction.