Expert: Dave Johnson - 11/7/2009

Question
Hi,
Our house is 5 years old, and the entire house frame stud spacing is 24" OC.  The exterior walls and any interior load walls are 2x6 while all others are 2x4.  But all walls are 24" OC.  Is this at all norma"  It's a two story home with a full basement.  Isn't the standard 16" OC? I'm a little concerned.  I need some sound advice.  I know that it could depend on building codes but it just seems like they should be 16" OC.  Any help or advice would be appreciated.  Thanks, Gary

Answer
Hi Gary,
Yes, standard practice on homes is 16" o.c. However many builders use 24" o.c. to save a buck.(you'd be surprised how little it actually saves)
Having said that, You needn't worry, MANY homes are done this way, and many older homes 2-4 floors high are built like this. So, structurally you're okay, its just a pain when renovating to have to go so far for a stud.

Best of luck,

Dave