Category: 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. These eight tables are based on 16″ o.c. applications according to the 2018 International Residential Code. The focus is 20 PSF live load. For all other… Continue reading Rafter Span Tables 2018 IRC

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. These span tables are for 16″ o.c. applications using southern pine. Plain ceilings are sized at 10 lb loads, while the ceilings with storage are sized for 20 lb… Continue reading Regulations for Ceiling Joist Spans 2018 Code

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. These six tables cover the most common situations for 16″ o.c. applications. Bedroom areas are sized for 30 lb live load… Continue reading Floor Joist Span Tables 2018 IRC

Insulated Ceilings Insulated ceilings within the thermal envelope of a building and located in an area governed by the 2018 International Residential Code must satisfy certain requirements. For complete details, which may vary from location to location, click here for the reference in the code book. Ceilings without Attics There is no attic for a… Continue reading Insulation Codes for Ceilings 2018 IRC

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. Any door. Anything within 2′ of a door on the hinge side. Anywhere within 5′ of a hot tub, swimming pool, spa, sauna, shower, or bathtub. Any walkway around… Continue reading Tempered Glass | Building Codes (when to use it)

The minimum size for habitable rooms, including bedrooms, is 70 square feet. The room must be no less than 7′ in any direction. Data is based on page 54 of the International Residential Code book. Remember, everything relies on finished measurements. Every dwelling must have at least one room with 120 square feet or more.… Continue reading Minimum Room Size | Bedrooms and other Finished Spaces

The minimum ceiling height according to the 2012 International Residential Code is 7′. There are exceptions such as basements and sloped ceilings. The information below is based on page 54 of the IRC. All dimensions are based on finished measurements. Habitable spaces, including hallways and laundry rooms, must have a ceiling height of less than 7′.… Continue reading Minimum Ceiling Height 2012 IRC Building Codes

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. Although 2 x 4’s are included in the official table, they are not listed because it is never advised to use them. 2… Continue reading Ceiling Joist Span | What size do I need?

Stair Railing Height The required railing height on stairs for decks, ramps, and interiors are the same. It depends on whether its handrails or guardrails that is in question concerning how tall they must be. Both are measured vertically from the end of the tread on the steps according to the 2012 International Residential Code… Continue reading Stair railing height for decks, ramps, and interiors