Wood braces and diagonal shores must be at least _______.

Wood braces and diagonal shores need to be sufficiently robust to ensure they can effectively support loads without bending or breaking. A dimension of at least 4" x 4" provides the necessary strength and stability required in construction applications where structural integrity is critical. This size helps distribute loads evenly and withstand tension or compression forces that may occur during construction or while the structure is in use.

While other dimensions, such as 2" x 2" or 4" x 2", may be adequate for light-duty tasks or temporary supports, they do not provide the same level of reliability and strength as the 4" x 4" braces, particularly in scenarios where safety and durability are paramount. Thus, the choice of 4" x 4" ensures that the materials meet minimum safety standards when employed in potential load-bearing situations.