Keep in mind that the NAHB guidelines were written by the builders in order to limit their liability on call-backs. I consider the source biased and use it only when I have nothing else to go on.
Whenever I can, I use RS Means "Residential & Light Commercial Construction Standards" as my primary source. From Means chapter on Wood Framing -- Allowable Tolerances:
"...Plumbness tolerance is important because out-of-plumb walls and partitions can be noticable and can affect the successful application of many finish materials. The 'Quality Standards for the Professional Remodeler' and the Insurance/Warranty Documents require that walls be plumb to within 1/4 inch in any 32 inches vertical measurement."
The NAHB would allow up to 1 1/8 inches in a typical 8 foot high wall.
RS Means says a max of 3/4 inches in an 8 foot wall is ok.
Originally Posted by
John Arnold
Bruce - I found this by searching the archives where there is a wealth of info:
"From the National Association of Home Builders Performance Guidelines:
Basement Walls - Concrete block or poured concrete
Walls shall not be out of plumb greater than 1 1/2 inches in 8 feet when measured from the base to the top of the wall.
Structural - Wood frame wall is out of plumb
Wood framed walls shall not be more than 3/8 inch out of plumb for every 32 inches in any vertical measurement.
Structural - The wall is bowed
All interior and exterior walls have slight variances in their finished surfaces. Walls shall not bow more than 1/2 inch out of line within 32 inch horizontal measurement or 1/2 inch within any 8 foot vertical measurement.
Hope this helps..
Jeff Euriech
Peoria, Arizona"