Question: Hi Karl, Our City recently prohibited the use of 3 1/2 " curb or stem wall from being used on the exterior load bearing wall of the garage. We feel the code would require an 8" or possibly a 6" curb if that application is to be used to raise the exterior foundation and allow the slab to be sloped. Is this correct?
Answer: No. The 2012 IRC Section 404.1.5.2 states that the thickness is based on the wall supported. Also, it states that the minimum actual thickness of a load bearing masonry wall shall be not less than 4 inches nominal or 3 3/8 inches actual thickness.
