What is NOT required in exterior nonbearing walls?

• A. Load-bearing headers
• B. Sheathing
• C. Weather barriers
• D. Masonry veneer anchors

Answer: (A)

In exterior nonbearing walls, the load carried above the wall isn’t transferred through that wall, so you don’t need structural headers to carry gravity loads around openings. That’s why a load-bearing header isn’t required in this case.

However, the wall still needs elements that provide overall stability and protect against the elements. Sheathing is necessary to give the wall its rigidity and a surface to attach other layers to. A weather barrier is required to keep rain and moisture from seeping into the wall assembly, improving durability and energy performance. If you’re applying a masonry veneer, veneer anchors are needed to tie the veneer to the underlying wall so it stays in place against wind and other forces.