History of hold-downs in IRC

[Timo2025]

Hello all,
I would like to know when the use of hold-downs was introduced in the IRC. Also, are hold-downs only required for the BV-WSP bracing method? Finally, is Simpson Strong-Tie the only brand allowed for hold-downs or are there others?
Thank you,

Timo

 

[Darren Emery]

Hello all,
I would like to know when the use of hold-downs was introduced in the IRC. Also, are hold-downs only required for the BV-WSP bracing method? Finally, is Simpson Strong-Tie the only brand allowed for hold-downs or are there others?
Thank you,

Timo

Hello Tim,

There would need to be quite a bit of research to answer the first question, the second question can be answered by a quick look at your local codes, and the third is easy: the code does not recommend a product manufacturer. There are others.

I have a feeling there's some history behind your questions - perhaps we can help more if you let us know what you're looking for?

 

[Yankee Chronicler]

Even before there was an IRC, the CABO One- and Two-Family Dwelling Code required the use of anchor bolts. Those are the original "hold-downs." Perhaps you could be more specific as to what hold-downs you are asking about, and what section of the IRC you are looking at?

 

[Paul Sweet]

Anchor bolts don't qualify as "hold-downs" unless they are specially engineered to transfer the uplift from one end of a shear wall into the foundation or the walls below.

The first edition of the IRC in 2000 had lateral load requirements which made them necessary in many cases. I don't recall the old CABO code having similar requirements. The Southern Building Code had special requirements for high-wind areas, and I suspect the Uniform Building Code had special requirements for seismic areas.