Which ProSTUD™ limiting heights table should I use?

ProSTUD, like any interior drywall stud, may be used in a variety of applications including walls, ceilings, and soffits. While some conditions may require the expertise of a design professional, many assemblies can be selected based on tabulated data. Using the tabs above, locate the required assembly and follow the instructions for selecting the proper ProSTUD member.

Not all Limiting Heights tables are created equally. In fact, as building codes have continued to evolve, the criteria and test procedures that are used to create limiting height data have changed dramatically. These changes have a very significant impact on the limiting height capacity of any specific stud.

For example, ICC Evaluation Service Acceptance Criteria AC86-95 (released in 1995) allowed for a 0.75 load reduction in the formula used to calculate the capacity of a stud. The 2008 version of the same standard, AC86-08, no longer allows the load reduction. Because of this change, the limiting height capacity of a stud varies dramatically depending on the version of the standard used. In some cases these variances can be in the magnitude of several feet!

ProSTUD Independent Product Testing & Certification Reports

Additional ProSTUD limiting height charts are available meeting AC86-95. Contact ClarkWestern Technical Support at 888-437-3244 for questions about these or other requirements.

 

 

 

composite assemblies

Composite limiting height data can be applied to walls where gypsum board is installed on both flanges of the stud for the full height of the wall. ProSTUD composite data is based on the 2003, 2006, and 2009 International Building Code and was tested and analyzed in accordance with the most recent version of AC86 (2010). ProSTUD was tested with both 1/2” and 5/8” generic gypsum board that applies to all brands and types of wallboard. In addition, ProSTUD was tested with 5/8” Type X Gypsum board to provide data for a higher level of performance where applicable.

Composite Limiting Heights (AC86-08) (updated 02-23-09)
(1 layer) 1/2" or 5/8" GENERIC Gypsum Board (All Brands & Types)
(1 layer) 5/8" Type X Gypsum Board

 

Non-Composite Assemblies

Non-composite conditions are common in all structures. When the gypsum board stops at the ceiling level, but the stud continues to the deck, it is a
non-composite condition. While there may be advantages to contacting Technical Services or a Design Professional, many conditions can be covered by
limiting heights tables shown below. When in doubt, call our complimentary Technical Services Hotline at 888-437-3244.

Distance of unbraced length (Lu)
can be found in ProSTUD's physical and structural properties.

Non-Composite Limiting Heights (updated 04-21-10)
ProSTUD Non-Composite Limiting Heights - FULLY BRACED
ProSTUD Non-Composite Limiting Heights - BRACED AT 48" O.C.

Interior ceilings

Interior ceilings are often supported by ProSTUD framing. The design criteria varies greatly based on the weight of the ceiling, bracing, and support points.

ProSTUD Ceiling Span Tables (updated 04-21-10)
ProSTUD Ceiling Span Tables

Chase Walls or Furred Walls

Chase & furred walls are common, but the conditions vary greatly depending on the building requirements. While non-composite tables may be used conservatively, when in doubt, contact our Technical Services Hotline at 888-437-3244 for chase wall designs.