All openings in load-bearing bale walls shall be a minimum of one full bale length from any outside corner, unless exceptions are designed by an engineer or architect licensed by the state to practice as such, and approved by the building official.
(A) Openings. Openings in exterior bale walls shall not exceed 50% of the total wall area, based on interior dimensions, where the wall is providing resistance to lateral loads, unless the structure is designed by an engineer or architect licensed by the state to practice as such, and approved by the building official.
(B) Lintels. Wall and/or roof load present above any opening shall be carried or transferred to the bales below by one of the following:
(1) A structural frame; or
(2) A lintel (such as an angle-iron cradle, wooden beam, wooden box beam). Lintels shall be at least twice as long as the opening is wide and extend at least 24 inches beyond either side of the opening. Lintels shall be centered over openings and shall not exceed the load limitations of § 153.19 by more than 25%.
(Res. 96-17, passed 12-12-1996)