Question 23
Domain 1: Footings, Foundations, and CrawlspacesWhat is the minimum number of anchor bolts required at each corner of a sill plate?
Correct answer: B
Explanation
A sill plate must be anchored at each corner with "one bolt within 12 inches of each end of each plate section." This requirement ensures the plate is secured at the ends of each section, including corners, to resist movement and uplift.
Why each option is right or wrong
A. None specified for corners
B. One bolt within 12 inches of each end of each plate section
Under IRC R403.1.6, sill plates must be anchored to the foundation with anchor bolts or approved anchors, and each plate section must have a bolt located within 12 inches of each end. At a corner, that means the minimum is one anchor bolt near each end of the plate section meeting at the corner, so the corner condition is satisfied by the end-fastening requirement rather than a separate special count.
C. Two bolts within 6 inches of each corner
D. One bolt at each corner exactly