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Questions regarding building codes and standards in the Houston area? Check the opinion to many of your questions answered by repsected building codes and standards officials of the GHBA Codes & Standards Technical Research Committee. Below you will some of the questions and opinions along with a topic archive.
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Q: Where can I go to get interpretations of the code?
A: Most code questions are easily answered by going directly to the Code Book. The Code
Council also publishes a very good document called the commentary. It is organized using the
same paragraph and section numbering system as the code (Read more...)
Q: What are the framing requirements for installed brick veneer over a wood framed roof?
A: For details please refer to reference quotes IRC 2003 703.7.2 through 703.7.3 (Read more...)
Q: Are the brick wall tie requirements more stringent in high wind areas?
A: Yes, the spacing is increased to 16" on center (Read more...)
Q: What is the minimum depth into undisturbed soil for foundation footings?
A: Minimum 12 inches below undisturbed ground, or by engineered design foundation. (Read
more...)
Q: What is the minimum required sill height and net clear opening square footage for windows in
bedrooms?
A: 44 inches minimum sill height, as measured from the top of the wood trim board. 5.7 minimum
net clearance 2 stories, 5.0 grade floor. Net clear opening is a measurement of clear glass
only, not including window frame, etc. (Read more...)
Q: Exterior door landings are required to be 36-inches deep in the direction of travel. Is the
exterior door between habitable space and an attached garage (having a 2-foot carstop) in
conflict with this requirement?
A: No. The "landing" sections of the 2003 Code have been substantially rewritten to clarify where
a landing requirement applies. The ICC 2003 Commentary provides supplemental discussion to
emphasize the change. (Read more...)
Q: Can exterior door deadbolts installed by the builder be of the "double cylinder keyed 2-sides'
type (i.e., only openable by key from both sides of the door)?
A: No. The International Residential Code and all previous codes have been very firm on this
issue. To safeguard health, safety, property and public welfare-Section R311.4.4 states "the
side from which egress is to be made without the use of a key or special knowledge or effort."
(Read more...)
ARCHIVE TOPICS:
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