NASCLA Commercial Building Practice Exam

The requirement of at least two bolts per sill plate is established primarily to ensure structural integrity and safety in construction. Sill plates, which are the horizontal members that rest on the foundation or slab and serve as the base for vertical framing members, must be securely anchored to resist uplift forces due to wind or seismic activity.

Having a minimum of two bolts provides sufficient redundancy, reducing the risk of failure if one bolt were to loosen or fail. Additionally, using two bolts helps evenly distribute the load and provides better resistance to lateral forces, which is important for the stability of the entire building structure.

Local building codes may have specific requirements that mandate this minimum, emphasizing the importance of following code regulations during construction. Adhering to these guidelines ensures that the framing is securely attached to the foundation, which is crucial for the overall resilience and durability of the building.