WB / WBT Wall Bracing — Code-Approved Galvanized Steel Temporary Wall Bracing
The WB and WBT Series wall bracing products are galvanized steel diagonal braces designed for use as temporary bracing to prevent wall racking before structural sheathing is applied. The WB Series is manufactured from 16-gauge galvanized steel in a flat strap profile, while the WBT Series uses 22-gauge galvanized steel in a wider T-profile for added rigidity. These products are intended for framing contractors and builders who require code-compliant temporary lateral support during the construction phase. Both series carry FL Approval #8283 and ICC ESR-1347.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| WB Material | 16ga. galvanized steel |
| WBT Material | 22ga. galvanized steel |
| FL Approval | #8283 |
| ICC Code | ESR-1347 |
Available Sizes — WB Series
| Model | Length | Steel Gauge | Width | Angle / Wall Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WB10 | 9'3" | 16 | 1-1/4" | 60° / 8 feet |
| WB12 | 11'5" | 16 | 1-1/4" | 45° / 8 feet |
| WB14 | 13'6" | 16 | 1-1/4" | 45° / 10 feet |
| WB16 | 15'6" | 16 | 1-1/4" | 45° / 12 feet |
Available Sizes — WBT Series
| Model | Length | Steel Gauge | Width | Angle / Wall Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WBT10 | 9'6" | 22 | 2" | 60° / 8 feet |
| WBT12 | 11'4" | 22 | 2" | 45° / 8 feet |
Unlike flat strap bracing, the WBT Series T-profile resists bending during handling and installation, eliminating the need for an X-pattern installation. Both series are code-listed under ICC ESR-1347 and FL Approval #8283, providing documented compliance for permitted projects.
Key Features & Benefits
Code-Listed Compliance
Both the WB and WBT Series carry FL Approval #8283 and ICC ESR-1347, giving contractors documented code compliance for permitted residential and commercial framing projects. This simplifies the inspection process and reduces the risk of job-site delays.
WBT T-Profile Rigidity
The WBT Series uses a T-shaped profile that is extra-rigid, meaning lengths won't bend as easily as flat strap bracing during handling and installation. This makes positioning and fastening faster and less frustrating on the job site.
No X-Pattern Required (WBT)
The WBT Series T-profile provides sufficient rigidity that no X-pattern installation is needed, reducing material usage and installation time compared to conventional flat strap approaches.
Galvanized Steel Construction
Both series are manufactured from galvanized steel — 16-gauge for the WB and 22-gauge for the WBT — providing corrosion resistance suitable for exterior framing environments during the construction phase.
Multiple Lengths for Common Wall Heights
The WB Series covers 8-foot, 10-foot, and 12-foot wall heights, while the WBT Series covers 8-foot wall heights, with brace angles of 45° or 60° depending on the model selected. This allows contractors to match the correct brace to the wall height without field cutting or improvising.
Common Applications
Temporary Racking Prevention During Framing
The WB and WBT Series are designed specifically to serve as temporary bracing to prevent wall racking before structural sheathing is applied. They stabilize framed walls during the construction phase until permanent lateral resistance is established.
Residential Wood-Frame Construction
These braces are suited for use on standard 8-foot, 10-foot, and 12-foot wall heights commonly found in residential framing, with models sized and angled to match each wall height.
Commercial Framing Projects Requiring Code Documentation
With ICC ESR-1347 and FL Approval #8283, these braces are appropriate for permitted commercial framing projects where inspectors require documented code compliance for temporary bracing.
Product Documents
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are the WB and WBT Series intended as permanent shear wall bracing?
A: No. The source material explicitly states that metal bracing should only be used as temporary bracing to prevent racking before structural sheathing is applied, and should never be used as a substitute for shear wall sheathing. It offers only about one-tenth the resistance to racking as 3/8" plywood.
Q: What is the difference between the WB and WBT Series?
A: The WB Series is a flat strap brace made from 16-gauge galvanized steel with a 1-1/4" width. The WBT Series uses a T-profile made from 22-gauge galvanized steel with a 2" width. The T-profile of the WBT is extra-rigid, making it less prone to bending during installation, and no X-pattern installation is required.
Q: Which WB model should I use for a 10-foot wall?
A: The WB14 is sized for a 10-foot wall height, with a length of 13'6" and a 45° installation angle.
Q: Which WB model should I use for a 12-foot wall?
A: The WB16 is sized for a 12-foot wall height, with a length of 15'6" and a 45° installation angle.
Q: Are these products code-listed?
A: Yes. Both the WB and WBT Series carry FL Approval #8283 and ICC ESR-1347.
Q: Does the WBT Series require an X-pattern installation?
A: No. The WBT Series T-profile is extra-rigid and does not require X-pattern installation, unlike standard flat strap bracing.