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I would like some information on building with plywood box beams. Are they accepted by the building code?

Question:

I would like some information on building with plywood box beams. Are they accepted by the building code? What is the load-bearing capability of box beams?

Answer:

The 2003 International Residential Code (IRC) contains prescriptive methods for building wood panel box headers in section 602.7.1. Table 602.7.2 indicates that wood panel box headers that are 9-inches deep and sheathed on both faces can support a 28-foot roof truss and clear span a 5-foot opening. Several other depths, spans, and load conditions are laid out in the table. Another source for information on box plywood headers is the Plywood Design Specifications, Supplement #2 at www.apawood.org/level_c.cfm?content=pub_ply_libmain.