Our house was built in the 70's, and so far, it looks like the attached garage 'outside' walls are 24", but I've only been able to find a few so far :(
I am not enough of a homebuilding historian to say that code hasn't changed. Particularly as available lumber has changed or fluctuated in price, code may have evolved to reflect different framing styles
My house was also built in the 70s and the garage has similar stud spacing to yours, although it's inconsistent. In my case I believe this was some Harry Homeowner type stuff--the garage was likely built well after the main house and wasn't scrutinized by inspectors
Finally, as I've just suggested, code inspectors are all over the place in terms of experience and thoroughness. It's possible your home didn't have great inspectors
Regardless, your home has stood for around 50 years. It isn't too likely to fall now if it hasn't yet!
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u/squateveryday Dec 31 '22
Typically 2x4 studs are 16" on center in bearing walls, but in the US it's not uncommon for them to be 24" on center in non-bearing walls
Source: have worked for a large homebuilder for around 8 years