Building Codes

These rafter span tables provide the best reference to quickly and easily determine the maximum span for all grades of southern pine according to the 2018 International Residential Code.

Find the maximum spans for ceiling joists according to the 2018 International Residential Code using the most common types of lumber with these simplified span tables.

Find out how far a 2 x 10 made from No. 2 pine or other material can span as a floor joist according to 2018 International Residential Code for living, bedroom, and storage areas.

Find the building codes for insulating ceilings according to the 2018 International Residential Code for one and two family dwellings.

2012 International Residential Code –  Download a free PDF version of the entire text for the 2012 International Residential Code. Read with Acrobat or Phantom with searchable text.

Fire blocking in stud walls is required in wood framed buildings to stop drafts in the cavities between framing members. These spaces can create drafts that will allow fire to spread readily if not dealt with.

Floor joists support the weight of flooring, furniture, and people inside of rooms. They are typically heavy and hard to handle.

Rafter Span Table and 2012 IRC Requirements – This rafter span table is for #2 lumber, ground snow load of 30 psf, ceiling not attached to rafters, and a dead load of 10 psf.

This ceiling joist span table is based on the 2012 IRC for uninhabitable attics with limited storage. It covers #2 common lumber species and sizes at 20 pounds per square foot load.

How to Stud up a Gable – Learn how to stud up a gable wall safely, efficiently, and in accordance with the 2012 International Residential Code using this fail safe method.

Moisture Control for the Crawl Space 2012 Building Codes – Controlling moisture in the crawl space underneath a house is important to prevent structural damage caused by rot and the development of dangerous molds. Proper planning on new home construction or careful analysis on existing homes will prove invaluable.

Pressure Treated Mud Sills on New Homes – The pressure treated mud sill is the beginning of the framing process. This is where the wood meets the concrete. It is usually separated by a vapor barrier and bound tightly with anchor bolts.

Widow Sill Height – Explains the minimum height  that the clear opening of a window shall be if it is more than six feet above the ground.

When to Use Treated Lumber – Learn when to use pressure treated lumber according to the 2012 International Residential Code. Based on information found in section R317 beginning on page 65 of the 2012 IRC book.

These building codes for handrails on stairs and guardrails around walkways are based on information in sectionR311.7.8 on page 61 of The 2012 International Residential Code.

Building code requirements for toilets, sinks, and showers in bathrooms. Includes headroom, size, and clearance specifications.

Building a landing with steps, guardrails, and handrails on the side of a deck within the 2012 IRC requirements using pressure treated pine.

Span charts and 2012 IRC building codes for girders and headers. Includes span tables for all load bearing locations and the number of jack studs.

Tempered glass is made to reduce the chances of injury or death. According to the 2012 International Residential Code, it is required at these hazardous locations.