Bolt Down LA

Common Mistakes

Six Retrofit Mistakes to Avoid

The following are common mistakes we see during retrofit construction. Also, a reminder that no construction should be started until the homeowner has received EBB's approval to begin.

#1 Incorrect Bolt/screw end distance in mudsill

#2 Nails overdriven or misplaced

#3 Bolts and nuts improperly installed

Bolts should be straight and all nuts should be tightened as per manufacturer specifications

Bolts should be flush with the top of the nut

#4 Use of non-approved angles, hold-downs, clips and foundation plates

No work is required at the interior of the crawlspace. Hold-downs are always located at the ends of shear walls

Vertical angles have no lateral capacity and are not required by Chapter A3 or the plan sets. Note: the requirements for foundation plates include a minimum plate thickness, 2-1/2” diameter anchors and 3-1/4” diameter lag screws

#5 Cripple walls >4’-0” must be designed by an engineer or using FEMA P-1100

Walls greater than 4’-0” require special attention as they may require hold-downs at each end.

Chapter A3, Plan Set A and the LA Standard Plan Set all require an engineered design for walls greater than 4’.

Check with the building department to see if they allow use of FEMA P-1100.

#6 Only Use Manufacturer Specified Concrete Anchors in Prescriptive Hardware

Mitek SRC Requires PowerStud® anchors

Prescriptive hardware such as the SRC or URFP must be installed per the manufacturer’s requirements unless a registered design professional specifies the anchor.

Simpson Strong-tie URFP requires SET-3G, AT-XP, or Titen HD

Check the manufacturer’s requirements for approved concrete/masonry anchors.

(Note: LA Standard Plan Set #1 requires all anchors have current LARR approval.)

✔ Cripple Wall Bracing
✔ Foundation Repair
✔ House Bolting
✔ Shear Walls
✔ Underpinning
✔ Crack Repair

✔ Foundation Replacement
✔ House Leveling
✔ Soft Story Retrofitting
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✔ Experienced