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NOTICE OF INCORPORATION
United States Legal Document
J^" All citizens and residents are hereby advised that
this is a legally binding document duly incorporated by
reference and that failure to comply with such
requirements as hereby detailed within may subject you
to criminal or civil penalties under the law. Ignorance of
the law shall not excuse noncompliance and it is the
responsibility of the citizens to inform themselves as to
the laws that are enacted in the United States of America
and in the states and cities contained therein. "^&
* *
ICC IRC (2012), the International Residential
Code, as mandated by and incorporated by the
States and Municipalities, including the
City of San Antonio (Texas) in Ordinance
2011-12-01-0984 and by the State of Maryland in
the Code of Maryland Administrative Regulations
(COMAR) , Section 05.02.01.02.
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INTERNATIONAL
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FOR ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLIN
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2012 International Residential Code
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Introduction
Developmsnt
Internationally, code officials recognize the need for a modern, up-to-date residential code address-
ing the design and construction of one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses. The Interna-
tional Residential Code®, in this 2012 edition, is designed to meet these needs through model code
regulations that safeguard the public health and safety in all communities, large and small.
This comprehensive, stand-alone residential code establishes minimum regulations for one- and
two-family dwellings and townhouses using prescriptive provisions. It is founded on broad-based
principles that make possible the use of new materials and new building designs. This 2012 edition
is fully compatible with all of the International Codes® (l-Codes®) published by the International
Code Council® (ICC)®, including the International Building Code®, International Energy Conservation
Code®, International Existing Building Code®, International Fire Code®, International Fuel Gas Code®,
International Green Construction Code™ (to be available March 2012), International Mechanical
Code®, ICC Performance Code®, International Plumbing Code®, International Private Sewage Dis-
posal Code®, International Property Maintenance Code®, International Swimming Pool and Spa
Code™ (to be available March 2012), International Wildland-Urban Interface Code® and Interna-
tional Zoning Code®.
The International Residential Code provisions provide many benefits, among which is the model
code development process that offers an international forum for residential construction profes-
sionals to discuss prescriptive code requirements. This forum provides an excellent arena to debate
proposed revisions. This model code also encourages international consistency in the application of
provisions.
The first edition of the International Residential Code (2000) was the culmination of an effort initi-
ated in 1996 by ICC and consisting of representatives from the three statutory members of the
International Code Council at the time, including: Building Officials and Code Administrators Inter-
national, Inc. (BOCA), International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO) and Southern Building
Code Congress International (SBCCI), and representatives from the National Association of Home
Builders (NAHB). The intent was to draft a stand-alone residential code consistent with and inclusive
of the scope of the existing model codes. Technical content of the 1998 International One- and Two-
Family Dwelling Code and the latest model codes promulgated by BOCA, ICBO, SBCCI and ICC was
used as the basis for the development, followed by public hearings in 1998 and 1999 to consider
proposed changes. This 2012 edition represents the code as originally issued, with changes
reflected in the 2009 edition, and further changes developed through the ICC Code Development
Process through 2010. Residential electrical provisions are based on the 2011 National Electrical
Code' (NFPA 70). A new edition such as this is promulgated every three years.
Energy provisions in Chapter 11 are duplicated from the International Energy Conservation
Code®— Residential Provisions applicable to residential buildings which fall under the scope of this
code.
Fuel gas provisions have been included through an agreement with the American Gas Associa-
tion (AGA). Electrical provisions have been included through an agreement with the National Fire
Protection Association (NFPA).
This code is founded on principles intended to establish provisions consistent with the scope of a
residential code that adequately protects public health, safety and welfare; provisions that do not
unnecessarily increase construction costs; provisions that do not restrict the use of new materials,
products or methods of construction; and provisions that do not give preferential treatment to par-
ticular types or classes of materials, products or methods of construction.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
Adoption
The International Residential Code is available for adoption and use by jurisdictions internationally.
Its use within a governmental jurisdiction is intended to be accomplished through adoption by ref-
erence in accordance with proceedings establishing the jurisdiction's laws. At the time of adoption,
jurisdictions should insert the appropriate information in provisions requiring specific local informa-
tion, such as the name of the adopting jurisdiction. These locations are shown in bracketed words in
small capital letters in the code and in the sample ordinance. The sample adoption ordinance on
page xvii addresses several key elements of a code adoption ordinance, including the information
required for insertion into the code text.
Maintenance
The International Residential Code is kept up-to-date through the review of proposed changes sub-
mitted by code enforcing officials, industry representatives, design professionals and other inter-
ested parties. Proposed changes are carefully considered through an open code development
process in which all interested and affected parties may participate.
The contents of this work are subject to change both through the Code Development Cycles and
the governmental body that enacts the code into law. For more information regarding the code
development process, contact the Codes and Standards Development Department of the Interna-
tional Code Council.
The maintenance process for the fuel gas provisions is based upon the process used to maintain
the International Fuel Gas Code, in conjunction with the American Gas Association. The mainte-
nance process for the electrical provisions is undertaken by the National Fire Protection Association.
While the development procedure of the International Residential Code assures the highest
degree of care, ICC, the founding members of ICC, its members and those participating in the devel-
opment of this code do not accept any liability resulting from compliance or noncompliance with
the provisions because ICC and its founding members do not have the power or authority to police
or enforce compliance with the contents of this code. Only the governmental body that enacts the
code into law has such authority.
Code Development Committee Responsibilities
In each code development cycle, proposed changes to the code are considered at the Code
Development Hearings by the applicable International Code Development Committee as follows:
[RB] = IRC— Building Code Development Committee
[RE] = Residential Energy Code Development Committee
[RMP] = IRC— Mechanical/Plumbing Code Development Committee
The [RE] committee is also responsible for the IECC— Residential Provisions.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
Note that, for the development of the 2015 edition of the l-Codes, there will be two groups of
code development committees and they will meet in separate years. The groupings are as follows:
Group A Codes
(Heard in 2012, Code Change Proposals
Deadline: January 3, 2012)
Group B Codes
(Heard in 2013, Code Change Proposals
Deadline: January 3, 2013)
International Building Code
Administrative Provisions (Chapter 1 all codes except
the IECC, IRC and ICCPC, administrative updates to cur-
rently referenced standards, and designated definitions)
International Fuel Gas Code
International Energy Conservation Code
International Mechanical Code
International Existing Building Code
International Plumbing Code
International Fire Code
International Private Sewage
Disposal Code
International Green Construction Code
ICC Performance Code
International Property Maintenance Code
International Residential Code
International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
International Wildland-Urban Interface Code
International Zoning Code
The International Residential Code is included in the Group B Codes. Therefore, any code change
proposals to the IRC will be heard in the 2013 code cycle. The deadline for proposed changes to the
IRC is January 3, 2013.
Marginal Markings
Solid vertical lines in the margins within the body of the code indicate a technical change from the
requirements of the 2009 edition. Deletion indicators in the form of an arrow (■»■) are provided in
the margin where an entire section, paragraph, exception or table has been deleted or an item in a
list of items or a table has been deleted.
A single asterisk [*] placed in the margin indicates that text or a table has been relocated within
the code. A double asterisk [**] placed in the margin indicates that the text or table immediately
following it has been relocated there from elsewhere in the code. The following table indicates such
relocations in the 2012 Edition of the International Residential Code.
2012 LOCATION
2009 LOCATION
R312.2
R612.2
R507
R502.2.2
R602.3.5
R602.10.1.2.1
R602. 10.6.5
R602.12
R702.7
R601.3
Italicized Terms
Selected terms set forth in Chapter 2, Definitions, are italicized where they appear in code text.
Such terms are not italicized where the definition set forth in Chapter 2 does not impart the
intended meaning in the use of the term. The terms selected have definitions which the user should
read carefully to facilitate better understanding of the code.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
vi 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
Effective Use ©f the International Residential Code
Effective Use of the International Residential Code
The International Residential Code® (IRC®) was created to serve as a complete, comprehensive code
regulating the construction of single-family houses, two-family houses (duplexes) and buildings con-
sisting of three or more townhouse units. All buildings within the scope of the IRC are limited to
three stories above grade plane. For example, a four-story single-family house would fall within the
scope of the International Building Code® (IBC®), not the IRC. The benefits of devoting a separate
code to residential construction include the fact that the user need not navigate through a multi-
tude of code provisions that do not apply to residential construction in order to locate that which is
applicable. A separate code also allows for residential and nonresidential code provisions to be dis-
tinct and tailored to the structures that fall within the appropriate code's scopes.
The IRC contains coverage for all components of a house or townhouse, including structural com-
ponents, fireplaces and chimneys, thermal insulation, mechanical systems, fuel gas systems, plumb-
ing systems and electrical systems.
The IRC is a prescriptive-oriented (specification) code with some examples of performance code
language. It has been said that the IRC is the complete cookbook for residential construction. Sec-
tion R301.1, for example, is written in performance language, but states that the prescriptive
requirements of the code will achieve such performance.
It is important to understand that the IRC contains coverage for what is conventional and com-
mon in residential construction practice. While the IRC will provide all of the needed coverage for
most residential construction, it might not address construction practices and systems that are
atypical or rarely encountered in the industry. Sections such as R301.1.3, R301.2.1, R301.2.2,
R320.1, R322.1, M1301.1, G2401.1 and P2601.1 refer to other codes either as an alternative to the
provisions of the IRC or where the IRC lacks coverage for a particular type of structure, design, sys-
tem appliance or method of construction. In other words, the IRC is meant to be all inclusive for
typical residential construction and it relies on other codes only where alternatives are desired or
where the code lacks coverage for the uncommon aspect of residential construction. Of course, the
IRC constantly evolves to address new technologies and construction practices that were once
uncommon, but now common.
The IRC is unique in that much of it, including Chapters 3 through 9 and Chapters 34 through 43,
is presented in an ordered format that is consistent with the normal progression of construction,
starting with the design phase and continuing through the final trim-out phase. This is consistent
with the "cookbook" philosophy of the IRC.
The IRC is divided into eight main parts, specifically, Part l-Administration, Part II — Definitions,
Part Ill-Building Planning and Construction, Part IV-Energy Conservation, Part V-Mechamcal,
Part VI— Fuel Gas, Part Vll-Plumbing and Part VIII— Electrical.
The following provides a brief description of the content of each chapter and appendix of the
IRC:
Chapter 1 Scope and Administration. This chapter contains provisions for the application,
enforcement and administration of subsequent requirements of the code. In addition to establish-
ing the scope of the code, Chapter 1 identifies which buildings and structures come under its pur-
view Chapter 1 is largely concerned with maintaining "due process of law" in enforcing the building
criteria contained in the body of the code. Only through careful observation of the administrative
provisions can the building official reasonably expect to demonstrate that "equal protection under
the law" has been provided.
Chapter 2 Definitions. Terms defined in the code are listed alphabetically in Chapter 2 It is
important to note that two chapters have their own definitions sections: Chapter 24 for the defined
terms that are unique to fuel gas and Chapter 35 containing terms that are applicable to electrical
Chapters 34 through 43. In the case where Chapter 2 and another chapter both define the same
term differently, the definition found in Chapter 24 and/or 35 is intended to prevail where the term
is used in Chapter 24 and/or 35 and the definition contained in Chapter 2 is intended to prevail
201 2 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
where the term is used in all other locations in the code. Except where Chapter 24 or 35 has a defi-
nition that will prevail therein, the definitions in Chapter 2 are applicable throughout the code.
Additional definitions regarding skylights that are not listed in Chapter 2 are found in Section
R308.6.1.
Where understanding a term's definition is key to or necessary for understanding a particular
code provision, the term is shown in italics where it appears in the code. This is true only for those
terms that have a meaning that is unique to the code. In other words, the generally understood
meaning of a term or phrase might not be sufficient or consistent with the meaning prescribed by
the code; therefore, it is essential that the code-defined meaning be known.
Guidance regarding not only tense, gender and plurality of defined terms, but also terms not
defined in this code, is provided.
Chapter 3 Building Planning. Chapter 3 provides guidelines for a minimum level of structural
integrity, life safety, fire safety and liability for inhabitants of dwelling units regulated by this code.
Chapter 3 is a compilation of the code requirements specific to the building planning sector of the
design and construction process. This chapter sets forth code requirements dealing with light, venti-
lation, sanitation, minimum room size, ceiling height and environmental comfort. Chapter 3estab-
hshes life-safety provisions including limitations on glazing used in hazardous areas, specifications
on stairways, use of guards at elevated surfaces, window and fall protection, and rules for means of
egress. Snow, wind and seismic design and flood-resistant construction, as well as live and dead
loads, are addressed in this chapter.
Chapter 4 Foundations. Chapter 4 provides the requirements for the design and construction of
foundation systems for buildings regulated by this code. Provisions for seismic load, flood load and
frost protection are contained in this chapter. A foundation system consists of two interdependent
components: the foundation structure itself and the supporting soil.
The prescriptive provisions of this chapter provide requirements for constructing footings and
walls for foundations of wood, masonry, concrete and precast concrete. In addition to a founda-
tion's ability to support the required design loads, this chapter addresses several other factors that
can affect foundation performance. These include controlling surface water and subsurface drain-
age, requiring soil tests where conditions warrant and evaluating proximity to slopes and minimum
depth requirements. The chapter also provides requirements to minimize adverse effects of mois-
ture, decay and pests in basements and crawl spaces.
Chapter 5 Floors. Chapter 5 provides the requirements for the design and construction of floor
systems that will be capable of supporting minimum required design loads. This chapter covers four
different types: wood floor framing, wood floors on the ground, cold-formed steel floor framing and
concrete slabs on the ground. Allowable span tables are provided that greatly simplify the determi-
nation of joist, girder and sheathing sizes for raised floor systems of wood framing and cold-formed
steel framing. This chapter also contains prescriptive requirements for attaching a deck to the main
building.
Chapter 6 Wall Construction. Chapter 6 contains provisions that regulate the design and con-
struction of walls. The wall construction covered in Chapter 6 consists of five different types- wood
framed, cold-formed steel framed, masonry, concrete and structural insulated panel (SIP) The pri-
mary concern of this chapter is the structural integrity of wall construction and transfer of all
imposed loads to the supporting structure. This chapter provides the requirements for the design
and construction of wall systems that are capable of supporting the minimum design vertical loads
(dead, live and snow loads) and lateral loads (wind or seismic loads). This chapter contains the pre-
scriptive requirements for wall bracing and/or shear walls to resist the imposed lateral loads due to
wind and seismic.
Chapter 6 also regulates exterior windows and doors installed in walls. The chapter contains cri-
teria for the performance of exterior windows and doors and includes provisions for window sill
height, testing and labeling, vehicular access doors, wind-borne debris protection and anchorage
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
Chapter 7 Wall Covering. Chapter 7 contains provisions for the design and construction of inte-
rior and exterior wall coverings. This chapter establishes the various types of materials, materials
standards and methods of application permitted for use as interior coverings, including interior
plaster, gypsum board, ceramic tile, wood veneer paneling, hardboard paneling, wood shakes and
wood shingles. Chapter 7 also contains requirements for the use of vapor retarders for moisture
control in walls.
Exterior wall coverings provide the weather-resistant exterior envelope that protects the build-
ing's interior from the elements. Chapter 7 provides the requirements for wind resistance and
water-resistive barrier for exterior wall coverings. This chapter prescribes the exterior wall cover-
ings as well as the water-resistive barrier required beneath the exterior materials. Exterior wall cov-
erings regulated by this section include aluminum, stone and masonry veneer, wood, hardboard,
particleboard, wood structural panel siding, wood shakes and shingles, exterior plaster, steel, vinyl,
fiber cement and exterior insulation finish systems.
Chapter 8 Roof-ceiling Construction. Chapter 8 regulates the design and construction of roof-
ceiling systems. This chapter contains two roof-ceiling framing systems: wood framing and cold-
formed steel framing. Allowable span tables are provided to simplify the selection of rafter and ceil-
ing joist size for wood roof framing and cold-formed steel framing. Chapter 8 also provides require-
ments for the application of ceiling finishes, the proper ventilation of concealed spaces in roofs
(e.g., enclosed attics and rafter spaces), unvented attic assemblies and attic access.
Chapter 3 Roof Assemblies. Chapter 9 regulates the design and construction of roof assem-
blies. A roof assembly includes the roof deck, vapor retarder, substrate or thermal barrier, insula-
tion, vapor retarder and roof covering. This chapter provides the requirement for wind resistance of
roof coverings.
The types of roof covering materials and installation regulated by Chapter 9 are: asphalt shingles,
clay and concrete tile, metal roof shingles, mineral-surfaced roll roofing, slate and slate-type shin-
gles, wood shakes and shingles, built-up roofs, metal roof panels, modified bitumen roofing, ther-
moset and thermoplastic single-ply roofing, sprayed polyurethane foam roofing, liquid applied
coatings and photovoltaic modules/shingles. Chapter 9 also provides requirements for roof drain-
age, flashing, above deck thermal insulation and recovering or replacing an existing roof covering.
Chapter 10 Chimneys and Fireplaces. Chapter 10 contains requirements for the safe con-
struction of masonry chimneys and fireplaces and establishes the standards for the use and installa-
tion of factory-built chimneys, fireplaces and masonry heaters. Chimneys and fireplaces constructed
of masonry rely on prescriptive requirements for the details of their construction; the factory-built
type relies on the listing and labeling method of approval. Chapter 10 provides the requirements for
seismic reinforcing and anchorage of masonry fireplaces and chimneys.
Chapter 11 Energy Efficiency. The purpose of Chapter 11 is to provide minimum design require-
ments that will promote efficient utilization of energy in buildings. The requirements are directed
toward the design of building envelopes with adequate thermal resistance and low air leakage, and
toward the design and selection of mechanical, water heating, electrical and illumination systems
that promote effective use of depletable energy resources. The provisions of Chapter 11 are dupli-
cated from the International Energy Conservation Code— Residential Provisions, as applicable for
buildings which fall under the scope of the IRC.
For ease of use and coordination of provisions, the corresponding IECC— Residential Provisions
section number is indicated following the IRC section number [e.g. N1102.1 (R402.1)].
Chapter 12 Mechanical Administration. Chapter 12 establishes the limits of applicability of
the code and describes how the code is to be applied and enforced. A mechanical code, like any
other code, is intended to be adopted as a legally enforceable document and it cannot be effective
without adequate provisions for its administration and enforcement. The provisions of Chapter 12
establish the authority and duties of the code official appointed by the jurisdiction having authority
and also establish the rights and privileges of the design professional, contractor and property
owner. It also relates this chapter to the administrative provisions in Chapter 1.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
Chapter 23 General Mechanical System Requirements. Chapter 13 contains broadly appli-
cable requirements related to appliance listing and labeling, appliance location and installation,
appliance and systems access, protection of structural elements and clearances to combustibles,
among others.
Chapter 14 Heating and Cooling Equipment. Chapter 14 is a collection of requirements for
various heating and cooling appliances, dedicated to single topics by section. The common theme is
that all of these types of appliances use energy in one form or another, and the improper installa-
tion of such appliances would present a hazard to the occupants of the dwellings, due to either the
potential for fire or the accidental release of refrigerants. Both situations are undesirable in dwell-
ings that are covered by this code.
Chapter 15 Exhaust Systems. Chapter 15 is a compilation of code requirements related to resi-
dential exhaust systems, including kitchens and bathrooms, clothes dryers and range hoods. The
code regulates the materials used for constructing and installing such duct systems. Air brought into
the building for ventilation, combustion or makeup purposes is protected from contamination by
the provisions found in this chapter.
Chapter IS Duct Systems. Chapter 16 provides requirements for the installation of ducts for
supply, return and exhaust air systems. This chapter contains no information on the design of these
systems from the standpoint of air movement, but is concerned with the structural integrity of the
systems and the overall impact of the systems on the fire-safety performance of the building. This
chapter regulates the materials and methods of construction which affect the performance of the
entire air distribution system.
Chapter 17 Combustion Air. Complete combustion of solid and liquid fuel is essential for the
proper operation of appliances, control of harmful emissions and achieving maximum fuel effi-
ciency. If insufficient quantities of oxygen are supplied, the combustion process will be incomplete,
creating dangerous byproducts and wasting energy in the form of unburned fuel (hydrocarbons).
The byproducts of incomplete combustion are poisonous, corrosive and combustible, and can cause
serious appliance or equipment malfunctions that pose fire or explosion hazards.
The combustion air provisions in this code from previous editions have been deleted from Chap-
ter 17 in favor of a single section that directs the user to NFPA 31 for oil-fired appliance combustion
air requirements and the manufacturer's installation instructions for solid fuel-burning appliances. If
fuel gas appliances are used, the provisions of Chapter 24 must be followed.
Chapter 18 Chimneys and Vents. Chapter 18 regulates the design, construction, installation,
maintenance, repair and approval of chimneys, vents and their connections to fuel-burning appli-
ances. A properly designed chimney or vent system is needed to conduct the flue gases produced by
a fuel-burning appliance to the outdoors. The provisions of this chapter are intended to minimize
the hazards associated with high temperatures and potentially toxic and corrosive combustion
gases. This chapter addresses factory-built and masonry chimneys, vents and venting systems used
to vent oil-fired and solid fuel-burning appliances.
Chapter 19 Special Fuel-burning Equipment. Chapter 19 regulates the installation of fuel-
burning appliances that are not covered in other chapters, such as ranges and ovens, sauna heaters,
fuel cell power plants and hydrogen systems. Because the subjects in this chapter do not contain
the volume of text necessary to warrant individual chapters, they have been combined into a single
chapter. The only commonality is that the subjects use energy to perform some task or function.
The intent is to provide a reasonable level of protection for the occupants of the dwelling.
Chapter 20 Boilers and Water Heaters. Chapter 20 regulates the installation of boilers and
water heaters. Its purpose is to protect the occupants of the dwelling from the potential hazards
associated with such appliances. A water heater is any appliance that heats potable water and sup-
plies it to the plumbing hot water distribution system. A boiler either heats water or generates
steam for space heating and is generally a closed system.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
Chapter 21 Hydronic Piping. Hydremic piping includes piping, fittings and valves used in building
space conditioning systems. Applications include hot water, chilled water, steam, steam conden-
sate, brines and water/antifreeze mixtures. Chapter 21 regulates installation, alteration and repair
of all hydronic piping systems to insure the reliability, serviceability, energy efficiency and safety of
such systems.
Chapter 22 Special Piping and Storage Systems. Chapter 22 regulates the design and instal-
lation of fuel oil storage and piping systems. The regulations include reference to construction stan-
dards for above-ground and underground storage tanks, material standards for piping systems
(both above-ground and underground) and extensive requirements for the proper assembly of sys-
tem piping and components. The purpose of this chapter is to prevent fires, leaks and spills involv-
ing fuel oil storage and piping systems, whether inside or outside structures and above or
underground.
Chapter 23 Solar Systems. Chapter 23 contains requirements for the construction, alteration
and repair of all systems and components of solar energy systems used for space heating or cooling,
and domestic hot water heating or processing. The provisions of this chapter are limited to those
necessary to achieve installations that are relatively hazard free.
A solar energy system can be designed to handle 100 percent of the energy load of a building,
although this is rarely accomplished. Because solar energy is a low-intensity energy source and
dependent on the weather, it is usually necessary to supplement a solar energy system with tradi-
tional energy sources.
As our world strives to find alternate means of producing power for the future, the requirements
of this chapter will become more and more important over time.
Chapter 24 Fuel Gas. Chapter 24 regulates the design and installation of fuel gas distribution
piping and systems, appliances, appliance venting systems and combustion air provisions. The defi-
nition of "Fuel gas" includes natural, liquefied petroleum and manufactured gases and mixtures of
these gases.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish the minimum acceptable level of safety and to protect
life and property from the potential dangers associated with the storage, distribution and use of
fuel gases and the byproducts of combustion of such fuels. This code also protects the personnel
who install, maintain, service and replace the systems and appliances addressed herein.
Chapter 24 is composed entirely of text extracted from the IFGC; therefore, whether using the
IFGC or the IRC, the fuel gas provisions will be identical. Note that to avoid the potential for confu-
sion and conflicting definitions, Chapter 24 has its own definition section.
Chapter 25 Plumbing Administration. The requirements of Chapter 25 do not supersede the
administrative provisions of Chapter 1. Rather, the administrative guidelines of Chapter 25 pertain
to plumbing installations that are best referenced and located within the plumbing chapters. This
chapter addresses how to apply the plumbing provisions of this code to specific types or phases of
construction. This chapter also outlines the responsibilities of the applicant, installer and inspector
with regard to testing plumbing installations.
Chapter 26 General Plumbing Requirements. The content of Chapter 26 is often referred to
as "miscellaneous," rather than general plumbing requirements. This is the only chapter of the
plumbing chapters of the code whose requirements do not interrelate. If a requirement cannot be
located in another plumbing chapter, it should be located in this chapter. Chapter 26 contains safety
requirements for the installation of plumbing systems and includes requirements for the identifica-
tion of pipe, pipe fittings, traps, fixtures, materials and devices used in plumbing systems. If specific
provisions do not demand that a requirement be located in another chapter, the requirement is
located in this chapter.
Chapter 27 Plumbing Fixtures. Chapter 27 requires fixtures to be of the proper type, approved
for the purpose intended and installed properly to promote usability and safe, sanitary conditions.
This chapter regulates the quality of fixtures and faucets by requiring those items to comply with
nationally recognized standards. Because fixtures must be properly installed so that they are usable
by the occupants of the building, this chapter contains the requirements for the installation of fix-
tures.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
Chapter 28 Water Heaters. Chapter 28 regulates the design, approval and installation of water
heaters and related safety devices. The intent is to minimize the hazards associated with the instal-
lation and operation of water heaters. Although this chapter does not regulate the size of a water
heater, it does regulate all other aspects of the water heater installation such as temperature and
pressure relief valves, safety drip pans and connections. Where a water heater also supplies water
for space heating, this chapter regulates the maximum water temperature supplied to the water
distribution system.
Chapter 29 Water Supply and Distribution. This chapter regulates the supply of potable
water from both public and individual sources to every fixture and outlet so that it remains potable
and uncontaminated by cross connections. Chapter 29 also regulates the design of the water distri-
bution system, which will allow fixtures to function properly. Because it is critical that the potable
water supply system remain free of actual or potential sanitary hazards, this chapter has the
requirements for providing backflow protection devices.
Chapter 30 Sanitary Drainage. The purpose of Chapter 30 is to regulate the materials, design
and installation of sanitary drainage piping systems as well as the connections made to the system.
The intent is to design and install sanitary drainage systems that will function reliably, are neither
undersized nor oversized and are constructed from materials, fittings and connections whose qual-
ity is regulated by this section. This chapter addresses the proper use of fittings for directing the
flow into and within the sanitary drain piping system. Materials and provisions necessary for servic-
ing the drainage system are also included in this chapter.
Chapter 31 Vents. Venting protects the trap seal of each trap. The vents are designed to limit dif-
ferential pressures at each trap to 1 inch of water column (249 Pa). Because waste flow in the drain-
age system creates pressure fluctuations that can negatively affect traps, the sanitary drainage
system must have a properly designed venting system. Chapter 31 covers the requirements for
vents and venting. All of the provisions set forth in this chapter are intended to limit the pressure
differentials in the drainage system to a maximum of 1 inch of water column (249 Pa) above or
below atmospheric pressure (i.e., positive or negative pressures).
Chapter 32 Traps. Traps prevent sewer gas from escaping from the drainage piping into the
building. Water seal traps are the simplest and most reliable means of preventing sewer gas from
entering the interior environment. This chapter lists prohibited trap types as well as specifies the
minimum trap size for each type of fixture.
Chapter 33 Storm Drainage. Rainwater infiltration into the ground adjacent to a building can
cause the interior of foundation walls to become wet. The installation of a subsoil drainage system
prevents the build-up of rainwater on the exterior of the foundation walls. This chapter provides the
specifications for subsoil drain piping. Where the discharge of the subsoil drain system is to a sump,
this chapter also provides coverage for sump construction, pumps and discharge piping.
Chapter 34 General Requirements. This chapter contains broadly applicable, general and mis-
cellaneous requirements including scope, listing and labeling, equipment locations and clearances
for conductor materials and connections and conductor identification.
Chapter 35 Electrical Definitions. Chapter 35 is the repository of the definitions of terms used
in the body of Part VIII of the code. To avoid the potential for confusion and conflicting definitions,
Part VIII, Electrical, has its own definition chapter.
Codes are technical documents and every word, term and punctuation mark can impact the
meaning of the code text and the intended results. The code often uses terms that have a unique
meaning in the code, which can differ substantially from the ordinarily understood meaning of the
term as used outside of the code.
The terms defined in Chapter 35 are deemed to be of prime importance in establishing the
meaning and intent of the electrical code text that uses the terms. The user of the code should be
familiar with and consult this chapter because the definitions are essential to the correct interpreta-
tion of the code and because the user may not be aware that a term is defined.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
Chapter 36 Services. This chapter covers the design, sizing and installation of the building's elec-
trical service equipment and grounding electrode system. It includes an easy-to-use load calculation
method and service conductor sizing table. The electrical service is generally the first part of the
electrical system to be designed and installed.
Chapter 37 Branch Circuit and Feeder Requirements. Chapter 37 addresses the require-
ments for designing the power distribution system which consists of feeders and branch circuits
emanating from the service equipment. This chapter dictates the ratings of circuits and the allow-
able loads, the number and types of branch circuits required, the wire sizing for such branch circuits
and feeders and the requirements for protection from overcurrent for conductors. A load calcula-
tion method specific to feeders is also included. This chapter is used to design the electrical system
on the load side of the service.
Chapter 38 Wiring Methods. Chapter 38 specifies the allowable wiring methods, such as cable,
conduit and raceway systems, and provides the installation requirements for the wiring methods.
This chapter is primarily applicable to the "rough-in" phase of construction.
Chapter 39 Power and Lighting Distribution. This chapter mostly contains installation
requirements for the wiring that serves the lighting outlets, receptacle outlets, appliances and
switches located throughout the building. The required distribution and spacing of receptacle out-
lets and lighting outlets is prescribed in this chapter, as well as the requirements for ground-fault
and arc-fault circuit interrupter protection.
Chapter 40 Devices and Luminaires. This chapter focuses on the devices, including switches
and receptacles, and lighting fixtures that are typically installed during the final phase of construc-
tion.
Chapter 41 Appliance Installation. Chapter 41 addresses the installation of appliances includ-
ing HVAC appliances, water heaters, fixed space-heating equipment, dishwashers, garbage dispos-
als, range hoods and suspended paddle fans.
Chapter 42 Swimming Pools. This chapter covers the electrical installation requirements for
swimming pools, storable swimming pools, wading pools, decorative pools, fountains, hot tubs,
spas and hydromassage bathtubs. The allowable wiring methods are specified along with the
required clearances between electrical system components and pools, spas and tubs. This chapter
includes the special grounding requirements related to pools, spas and tubs, and also prescribes the
equipotential bonding requirements that are unique to pools, spas and tubs.
Chapter 43 Class 2 Remote-control, Signaling and Power-limited Circuits. This chapter
covers the power supplies, wiring methods and installation requirements for the Class 2 circuits
found in dwellings. Such circuits include thermostat wiring, alarm systems, security systems, auto-
mated control systems and doorbell systems.
Chapter 44 Referenced Standards. The code contains numerous references to standards that
are used to regulate materials and methods of construction. Chapter 44 contains a comprehensive
list of all standards that are referenced in the code. The standards are part of the code to the extent
of the reference to the standard. Compliance with the referenced standard is necessary for compli-
ance with this code. By providing specifically adopted standards, the construction and installation
requirements necessary for compliance with the code can be readily determined. The basis for code
compliance is, therefore, established and available on an equal basis to the code official, contractor,
designer and owner.
Chapter 44 is organized in a manner that makes it easy to locate specific standards. It lists all of
the referenced standards, alphabetically, by acronym of the promulgating agency of the standard.
Each agency's standards are then listed in either alphabetical or numeric order based upon the stan-
dard identification. The list also contains the title of the standard; the edition (date) of the standard
referenced; any addenda included as part of the ICC adoption; and the section or sections of this
code that reference the standard.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
Appendix A Sizing and Capacities of Gas Piping. This appendix is informative and not part of
the code. It provides design guidance, useful facts and data and multiple examples of how to apply
the sizing tables and sizing methodologies of Chapter 24.
Appendix B Sizing of Venting Systems Serving Appliances Equipped with Draft
Hoods, Category I Appliances and Appliances Listed for Use with Type B Vents. This
appendix is informative and not part of the code. It contains multiple examples of how to apply the
vent and chimney tables and methodologies of Chapter 24.
Appendix C Exit Terminals of Mechanical Draft and Direct-vent Venting Systems. This
appendix is informative and not part of the code. It consists of a figure and notes that visually depict
code requirements from Chapter 24 for vent terminals with respect to the openings found in build-
ing exterior walls.
Appendix D Recommended Procedure for Safety Inspection of an Existing Appliance
Installation. This appendix is informative and not part of the code. It provides recommended pro-
cedures for testing and inspecting an appliance installation to determine if the installation is operat-
ing safely and if the appliance is in a safe condition.
Appendix E Manufactured Housing Used as Dwellings. The criteria for the construction of
manufactured homes are governed by the National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety
Act. While this act may seem to cover the bulk of the construction of manufactured housing, it does
not cover those areas related to the placement of the housing on the property. The provisions of
Appendix E are not applicable to the design and construction of manufactured homes. Appendix E
provides a complete set of regulations in conjunction with federal law for the installation of manu-
factured housing. This appendix also contains provisions for existing manufactured home installa-
tions.
Appendix F Radon Control Methods. Radon comes from the natural (radioactive) decay of the
element radium in soil, rock and water and finds its way into the air. Appendix F contains require-
ments to mitigate the transfer of radon gases from the soil into the dwelling. The provisions of this
appendix regulate the design and construction of radon-resistant measures intended to reduce the
entry of radon gases into the living space of residential buildings.
Appendix G Swimming Pool, Spas and Hot Tubs. Appendix G provides the regulations for
swimming pools, hot tubs and spas installed in or on the lot of a one- or two-family dwelling. This
appendix contains provisions for an effective barrier surrounding the water area and entrapment
protection for suction outlets to reduce the potential for drowning of young children.
Appendix H Patio Covers. Appendix H sets forth the regulations and limitations for patio covers.
The provisions address those uses permitted in patio cover structures, the minimum design loads to
be assigned for structural purposes, and the effect of the patio cover on egress and emergency
escape or rescue from sleeping rooms. This appendix also contains the special provisions for alumi-
num screen enclosures in hurricane-prone regions.
Appendix I Private Sewage Disposal. Appendix I simply provides the opportunity to utilize the
International Private Sewage Disposal Code for the design and installation of private sewage dis-
posal in one- and two-family dwellings.
Appendix J Existing Buildings and Structures. Appendix J contains the provisions for the
repair, renovation, alteration and reconstruction of existing buildings and structures that are within
the scope of this code. To accomplish this objective and to make the rehabilitation process more
available, this appendix allows for a controlled departure from full code compliance without com-
promising minimum life safety, fire safety, structural and environmental features of the rehabili-
tated existing building or structure.
Appendix K Sound Transmission. Appendix K regulates the sound transmission of wall and
floor-ceiling assemblies separating dwelling units and townhouse units. Air-borne sound insulation
is required for walls. Air-borne sound insulation and impact sound insulation are required for floor-
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ceiling assemblies. The provisions in Appendix K set forth a minimum Sound Transmission Class
(STC) rating for common walls and floor-ceiling assemblies between dwelling units. In addition, a
minimum Impact Insulation Class (IIC) rating is also established to limit structure-borne sound
through common floor-ceiling assemblies separating dwelling units.
Appendix L Permit Fees. Appendix L provides guidance to jurisdictions for setting appropriate
permit fees. This appendix will aid many jurisdictions to assess permit fees that will assist to fairly
and properly administer the code. This appendix can be used for informational purposes only or
may be adopted when specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.
Appendix M Home Day Care-R-3 Occupancy. Appendix M provides means of egress and
smoke detection requirements for a Group R-3 Occupancy that is to be used as a home day care for
more than five children who receive custodial care for less than 24 hours. This appendix is strictly
for guidance and/or adoption by those jurisdictions that have Licensed Home Care Provider laws
and statutes that allow more than five children to be cared for in a person's home. When a jurisdic-
tion adopts this appendix, the provisions for day care and child care facilities in the IBC should be
considered also.
Appendix N Venting Methods. Because venting of sanitary drainage systems is perhaps the
most difficult concept to understand, and Chapter 31 uses only words to describe venting require-
ments, illustrations can offer greater insight into what the words mean. Appendix N has a number
of illustrations for commonly installed sanitary drainage systems in order for the reader to gain a
better understanding of this code's venting requirements.
Appendix O Automatic Vehicular Gates. Appendix O provides the requirements for the
design and construction of automatic vehicular gates. The provisions are for where automatic gates
are installed for use at a vehicular entrance or exit on the lot of a one- or two-family dwelling. The
requirements provide protection for individuals from potential entrapment between an automatic
gate and a stationary object or surface.
Appendix P Sizing of Water Piping System. Appendix P provides two recognized methods for
sizing the water service and water distribution piping for a building. The method under Section
AP103 provides friction loss diagrams that require the user to "plot" points and read values from
the diagrams in order to perform the required calculations and necessary checks. This method is the
most accurate of the two presented in this appendix. The method under Section AP201 is known to
be conservative; however, very few calculations are necessary in order to determine a pipe size that
satisfies the flow requirements of any application.
Appendix Q ICC International Residential Code Electrical Provisions/National Elec-
trical Code Cross Reference. This cross reference allows the code user to trace the code sec-
tions in Chapters 34 through 43 back to their source: the National Electrical Code. See the
introduction to Chapter 34 for more information on the relationship between Part VIII of this code
and the NEC, NFPA70.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
l_C\2ilOL>r\ i lUll
The International Codes are designed and promulgated to be adopted by reference by legislative action. Jurisdictions wishing to
adopt the 2012 International Residential Code as an enforceable regulation governing one- and two-family dwellings and town-
houses should ensure that certain factual information is included in the adopting legislation at the time adoption is being consid-
ered by the appropriate governmental body. The following sample adoption legislation addresses several key elements,
including the information required for insertion into the code text.
AMPLE LEGISLATION FOR ADOPTION Or
THE INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
RDIINAlMCE NO.
A[N] [ORDiNANCE/STATUTE/REGULATION] of the [JURISDICTION] adopting the 2012 edition of the International Residential
Code, regulating and governing the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, location,
removal and demolition of detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single family dwellings (townhouses) not more
than threes stories in height with separate means of egress in the [JURISDICTION]; providing for the issuance of permits and col-
lection of fees therefor; repealing [ORDINANCE/STATUTE/REGULATION] No. of the [JURISDICTION] and all other ordi-
nances or parts of laws in conflict therewith.
The [GOVERNING BODY] of the [JURISDICTION] does ordain as follows;
Section 1. That a certain document, three (3) copies of which are on file in the office of the [TITLE OF JURISDICTION'S KEEPER
OF RECORDS] of [NAME OF JURISDICTION], being marked and designated as the International Residential Code, 2012 edition,
including Appendix Chapters [FILL IN THE APPENDIX CHAPTERS BEING ADOPTED] (see International Residential Code Section
R102.5, 2012 edition), as published by the International Code Council, be and is hereby adopted as the Residential Code of the
[JURISDICTION], in the State of [STATE NAME] for regulating and governing the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement,
replacement, repair, equipment, location, removal and demolition of detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple sin-
gle-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than threes stories in height with separate means of egress as herein provided; pro-
viding for the issuance of permits and collection of fees therefor; and each and all of the regulations, provisions, penalties,
conditions and terms of said Residential Code on file in the office of the [JURISDICTION] are hereby referred to, adopted, and
made a part hereof, as if fully set out in this ordinance, with the additions, insertions, deletions and changes, if any, prescribed in
Section 2 of this ordinance.
Section 2. The following sections are hereby revised:
Section RIO 1.1. Insert: [NAME OF JURISDICTION]
Table R301.2 (1) Insert: [APPROPRIATE DESIGN CRITERIA]
Section P2603.6.1 Insert: [NUMBER OF INCHES IN TWO LOCATIONS]
Section 3. That [ORDINANCE/STATUTE/REGULATION] No. of [JURISDICTION] entitled [FILL IN HERE THE COMPLETE
TITLE OF THE LEGISLATION OR LAWS IN EFFECT AT THE PRESENT TIME SO THAT THEY WILL BE REPEALED BY DEFINITE MEN-
TION] and all other ordinances or parts of laws in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.
Section 4. That if any section, subsection, sentence, clause or phrase of this legislation is, for any reason, held to be unconstitu-
tional, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this ordinance. The [GOVERNING BODY] hereby
declares that it would have passed this law, and each section, subsection, clause or phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that
any one or more sections, subsections, sentences, clauses and phrases be declared unconstitutional.
Section 5. That nothing in this legislation or in the Residential Code hereby adopted shall be construed to affect any suit or pro-
ceeding impending in any court, or any rights acquired, or liability incurred, or any cause or causes of action acquired or exist-
ing, under any act or ordinance hereby repealed as cited in Section 3 of this law; nor shall any just or legal right or remedy of any
character be lost, impaired or affected by this legislation.
Section 6. That the [JURISDICTION'S KEEPER OF RECORDS] is hereby ordered and directed to cause this legislation to be pub-
lished. (An additional provision may be required to direct the number of times the legislation is to be published and to specify
that it is to be in a newspaper in general circulation. Posting may also be required.)
Section 7. That this law and the rules, regulations, provisions, requirements, orders and matters established and adopted hereby
shall take effect and be in full force and effect [TIME PERIOD] from and after the date of its final passage and adoption.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE® xvii
xviii 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
oLt Ur LfUN @ CM 1 O
Part I — Administrative 1
CHAPTER 1 SCOPE AND
ADMINISTRATION 1
PART 1— SCOPE AND APPLICATION 1
Section
R101 General 1
R102 Applicability 1
PART 2— ADMINISTRATION AND
ENFORCEMENT. 2
R103 Department of Building Safety 2
R104 Duties and Powers of the Building Official 2
R105 Permits 3
R106 Construction Documents 5
R107 Temporary Structures and Uses 6
R108 Fees 6
R109 Inspections 6
Rl 10 Certificate of Occupancy 7
Rl 1 1 Service Utilities 7
Rl 12 Board of Appeals 8
Rl 13 Violations 8
Rl 14 Stop Work Order 9
Part II — Definitions H
CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS. 11
Section
R201 General 11
R202 Definitions 11
Part III — Building Planning and Construction 25
CHAPTER 3 BUILDING PLANNING 25
Section
R301 Design Criteria 25
R302 Fire-resistant Construction 48
R303 Light, Ventilation and Heating 53
R304 Minimum Room Areas 54
R305 Ceiling Height 54
R306 Sanitation 54
R307 Toilet, Bath and Shower Spaces 54
R308 Glazing 55
R309 Garages and Carports 58
R310 Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings 58
R311 Means of Egress 59
R312 Guards and Window Fall Protection 62
R3 1 3 Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems 62
R314 Smoke Alarms 63
R315 Carbon Monoxide Alarms 63
R316 Foam Plastic 64
R3 17 Protection of Wood and Wood Based
Products Against Decay 65
R318 Protection Against Subterranean Termites 67
R319 Site Address 68
R320 Accessibility 68
R321 Elevators and Platform Lifts 68
R322 Flood-resistant Construction 68
R323 Storm Shelters 71
CHAPTER 4
Section
R401
FOUNDATIONS.
73
General 73
R402 Materials 73
R403 Footings 74
R404 Foundation and Retaining Walls 91
R405 Foundation Drainage 1 09
R406 Foundation Waterproofing and
Dampproofing 110
R407 Columns 1 1 1
R408 Under-floor Space HI
CHAPTER 5
Section
R501
FLOORS
113
General 1 1 3
R502 Wood Floor Framing 113
R503 Floor Sheathing 124
R504 Pressure Preservatively Treated-wood
Floors (On Ground) 125
R505 Steel Floor Framing 126
R506 Concrete Floors (On Ground) 144
R507 Decks 146
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
;®
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 6 WALL CONSTRUCTION 149
Section
R601 General 149
R602 Wood Wall Framing 149
R603 Steel Wall Framing 192
R604 Wood Structural Panels 264
R605 Particleboard 264
R606 General Masonry Construction 264
R607 Unit Masonry 272
R608 Multiple-wythe Masonry 273
R609 Grouted Masonry 274
R610 Glass Unit Masonry 276
R61 1 Exterior Concrete Wall Construction 277
R612 Exterior Windows and Doors 347
R613 Structural Insulated Panel Wall
Construction 350
CHAPTER 7 WALL COVERING 359
Section
R701 General 359
R702 Interior Covering 359
R703 Exterior Covering 363
CHAPTER 8 ROOF-CEILING
CONSTRUCTION 377
Section
R801 General 377
R802 Wood Roof Framing 377
R803 Roof Sheathing 403
R804 Steel Roof Framing 403
R805 Ceiling Finishes 436
R806 Roof Ventilation 436
R807 Attic Access 437
CHAPTER 9 ROOF ASSEMBLIES 439
Section
R901 General 439
R902 Roof Classification 439
R903 Weather Protection 439
R904 Materials 439
R905 Requirements for Roof Coverings 440
R906 Roof Insulation 450
R907 Reroofing 450
CHAPTER 10 CHIMNEYS AND FIREPLACES. . . 453
Section
R1001 Masonry Fireplaces 453
R1002 Masonry Heaters 456
R1003 Masonry Chimneys 457
R1004 Factory -built Fireplaces 461
R1005 Factory-built Chimneys 462
R1006 Exterior Air Supply 462
Part IV — Energy Conservation 463
CHAPTER 11 ENERGY EFFICIENCY .......... 463
Section
Nl 101 Genera] 463
Nl 102 Building Thermal Envelope 482
Nl 103 Systems 485
Nl 1 04 Electrical Power and Lighting
Systems (Mandatory) 487
N 1 105 Simulated Performance Alternative
(Performance) 487
Part V — Mechanical 493
CHAPTER 12 MECHANICAL
ADMINISTRATION 493
Section
M1201 General 493
Ml 202 Existing Mechanical Systems 493
CHAPTER 13 GENERAL MECHANICAL
SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS 495
Section
M1301 General 495
M1302 Approval 495
M1303 Labeling of Appliances 495
M1304 Type of Fuel 495
M1305 Appliance Access 495
Ml 306 Clearances from Combustible Construction . . . 496
M1307 Appliance Installation 497
Ml 308 Mechanical Systems Installation 500
xx
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 14 HEATING AND COOLING
EQUIPMENT AND
APPLIANCES 501
Section
M1401 Genera] 501
M1402 Central Furnaces 501
M1403 Heat Pump Equipment 501
Ml 404 Refrigeration Cooling Equipment 501
M1405 Baseboard Convectors 501
M1406 Radiant Heating Systems 501
M1407 Duct Heaters 502
M1408 Vented Floor Furnaces 502
M1409 Vented Wall Furnaces 502
M1410 Vented Room Heaters 503
M141 1 Heating and Cooling Equipment 503
M1412 Absorption Cooling Equipment 504
M1413 Evaporative Cooling Equipment 504
M1414 Fireplace Stoves 504
M1415 Masonry Heaters 505
CHAPTER 15 EXHAUST SYSTEMS 507
Section
M1501 General 507
M1502 Clothes Dryer Exhaust 507
M1503 Range Hoods 508
Ml 504 Installation of Microwave Ovens 508
M1505 Overhead Exhaust Hoods 508
Ml 506 Exhaust Ducts and Exhaust Openings 508
M1507 Mechanical Ventilation 508
CHAPTER 16 DUCT SYSTEMS 511
Section
M1601 Duct Construction 511
M1602 Return Air 513
CHAPTER 17 COMBUSTION AIM. 515
Section
M1701 General 515
CHAPTER 18 CHIMNEYS AND VENTS 517
Section
M1801 General 517
M1802 Vent Components 517
Ml 803 Chimney and Vent Connectors 518
M1804 Vents 519
Ml 805 Masonry and Factory-built Chimneys 519
CHAPTER 19 SPECIAL APPLIANCES,
EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS. .... 521
Section
M1901 Ranges and Ovens 521
M1902 Sauna Heaters 521
Ml 903 Stationary Fuel Cell Power Plants 521
M1904 Gaseous Hydrogen Systems 521
CHAPTER 20 BOILERS AND
WATER HEATERS 523
Section
M2001 Boilers 523
M2002 Operating and Safety Controls 523
M2003 Expansion Tanks 523
M2004 Water Heaters Used for Space Heating 524
M2005 Water Heaters 524
M2006 Pool Heaters 524
CHAPTER 21 HYDRONIC PIPING .525
Section
M2101 Hydronic Piping Systems Installation 525
M2102 Baseboard Convectors 525
M2103 Floor Heating Systems 525
M2104 Low Temperature Piping 527
M2105 Ground Source Heat Pump System
Loop Piping 527
CHAPTER 22 SPECIAL PIPING AND
STORAGE SYSTEMS 529
Section
M2201 Oil Tanks 529
M2202 Oil Piping, Fitting and Connections 529
M2203 Installation 529
M2204 Oil Pumps and Valves 530
CHAPTER 23 SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS ...... 531
Section
M2301 Thermal Solar Energy Systems 531
M2302 Photovoltaic Solar Energy Systems 531
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part VI— Fuel Gas 533
CHAPTER 24 FUEL GAS 533
Section
G2401 General 533
G2402 General 533
G2403 General Definitions 533
G2404 General 539
G2405 Structural Safety 540
G2406 Appliance Location 540
G2407 Combustion, Ventilation and Dilution Air 540
G2408 Installation 544
G2409 Clearance Reduction 545
G2410 Electrical 548
G2411 Electrical Bonding 548
G2412 General 548
G2413 Pipe Sizing 549
G2414 Piping Materials 550
G2415 Piping System Installation 573
G2416 Piping Bends and Changes in Direction 575
G2417 Inspection, Testing and Purging 575
G2418 Piping Support 578
G2419 Drips and Sloped Piping 578
G2420 Gas Shutoff Valves 578
G2421 Flow Controls 579
G2422 Appliance Connections 580
G2423 CNG Gas-dispensing Systems 581
G2424 Piping Support Intervals 581
G2425 General 581
G2426 Vents 582
G2427 Venting of Appliances 583
G2428 Sizing of Category I Appliance
Venting Systems 592
G2429 Direct-vent, Integral Vent, Mechanical Vent
and Ventilation/Exhaust Hood Venting 596
G2430 Factory-built Chimneys 596
G2431 General 596
G2432 Decorative Appliances for Installation
in Fireplaces 596
G2433 Log Lighters 596
G2434 Vented Gas Fireplaces
(Decorative Appliances) 605
G2435 Vented Gas Fireplace Heaters 605
G2436 Vented Wall Furnaces 605
G2437 Floor Furnaces 605
G2438 Clothes Dryers 606
G2439 Clothes Dryer Exhaust 606
G2440 Sauna Heaters 607
G2441 Pool and Spa Heaters 607
G2442 Forced-air Warm-air Furnaces 607
G2443 Conversion Burners 608
G2444 Unit Heaters 608
G2445 Unvented Room Heaters 608
G2446 Vented Room Heaters 609
G2447 Cooking Appliances 609
G2448 Water Heaters 609
G2449 Air Conditioning Appliances 609
G2450 Illuminating Appliances 610
G2451 Infrared Radiant Heaters 610
G2452 Boilers 610
G2453 Chimney Damper Opening Area 610
G2454 Outdoor Decorative Appliances 610
Part VII— Plumbing 613
CHAPTER 25 PLUMBING
ADMINISTRATION 613
Section
P2501 General 613
P2502 Existing Plumbing Systems 613
P2503 Inspection and Tests 613
CHAPTER 26 GENERAL PLUMBING
REQUIREMENTS 615
Section
P2601 General 615
P2602 Individual Water Supply and
Sewage Disposal 615
P2603 Structural and Piping Protection 615
P2604 Trenching and Backfilling 616
P2605 Support 616
P2606 Penetrations 616
P2607 Waterproofing of Openings 616
P2608 Workmanship 616
P2609 Materials Evaluation and Listing 617
CHAPTER 27 PLUMBING FIXTURES 619
Section
P2701 Fixtures, Faucets and Fixture Fittings 619
P2702 Fixture Accessories 619
P2703 Tail Pieces 619
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE*
TABLE OF CONTENTS
P2704 Access to Connections 619
P2705 Installation 619
P2706 Waste Receptors 619
P2707 Directional Fittings 621
P2708 Showers 621
P2709 Shower Receptors 621
P2710 Shower Walls 622
P271 1 Lavatories 622
P2712 Water Closets 622
P2713 Bathtubs 623
P2714 Sinks 623
P2715 Laundry Tubs 623
P2716 Food Waste Grinder 623
P2717 Dishwashing Machines 623
P271 8 Clothes Washing Machine 623
P2719 Floor Drains 623
P2720 Whirlpool Bathtubs 623
P2721 Bidet Installations 624
P2722 Fixture Fitting 624
P2723 Macerating Toilet Systems 624
P2724 Speciality Temperature Control Devices
and Valves 624
CHAPTER 28 WATER HEATERS 625
Section
P2801 General 625
P2802 Water Heaters Used for Space Heating 625
P2803 Relief Valves 625
CHAPTER 29 WATER SUPPLY AND
DISTRIBUTION 627
Section
P2901 General 627
P2902 Protection of Potable Water Supply 627
P2903 Water-supply System 629
P2904 Dwelling Unit Fire Sprinkler Systems 632
P2905 Materials, loints and Connections 645
P2906 Changes in Direction 649
P2907 Support 649
P2908 Drinking Water Treatment Units 649
CHAPTER 30 SANITARY DRAINAGE 651
Section
P3001 General 651
P3002 Materials 651
P3003 Joints and Connections 653
P3004 Determining Drainage Fixture Units 656
P3005 Drainage System 656
P3006 Sizing of Drain Pipe Offsets 659
P3007 Sumps and Ejectors 659
P3008 Backwater Valves 660
P3009 Gray Water Recycling Systems 660
CHAPTER 31 VENTS 665
Section
P3101 Vent Systems 665
P3102 Vent Stacks and Stack Vents 665
P3103 Vent Terminals 665
P3104 Vent Connections and Grades 665
P3105 Fixture Vents 666
P3106 Individual Vent 666
P3107 Common Vent 666
P3108 Wet Venting 666
P3109 Waste Stack Vent 667
P3110 Circuit Venting 667
P3 1 1 1 Combination Waste and Vent System 667
P3112 Island Fixture Venting 668
P31 13 Vent Pipe Sizing 668
P31 14 Air Admittance Valves 668
CHAPTER 32 TRAPS 671
Section
P320I Fixture Traps 671
CHAPTER 33 STORM DRAINAGE 673
Section
P3301 General 673
P3302 Subsoil Drains 673
P3303 Sumps and Pumping Systems 673
Part VIII— Electrical. 675
CHAPTER 34 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 675
Section
E3401 General 675
E3402 Building Structure Protection 676
E3403 Inspection and Approval 676
E3404 General Equipment Requirements 676
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
TABLE OF CONTENTS
E3405 Equipment Location and Clearances 677
E3406 Electrical Conductors and Connections 678
E3407 Conductor and Terminal Identification 680
CHAPTER 35 ELECTRICAL DEFINITIONS 683
Section
E3501 General 683
CHAPTER 36 SERVICES 687
Section
E3601 General Services 687
E3602 Service Size and Rating 687
E3603 Service, Feeder and Grounding
Electrode Conductor Sizing 688
E3604 Overhead Service and Service-entrance
Conductor Installation 689
E3605 Service-entrance Conductors 691
E3606 Service Equipment — General 691
E3607 System Grounding 692
E3608 Grounding Electrode System 692
E3609 Bonding 694
E3610 Grounding Electrode Conductors 695
E3611 Grounding Electrode Conductor
Connection to the Grounding Electrodes .... 695
CHAPTER 37 BRANCH CIRCUIT AND
FEEDER REQUIREMENTS 697
Section
E3701 General 697
E3702 Branch Circuit Ratings 697
E3703 Required Branch Circuits 698
E3704 Feeder Requirements 699
E3705 Conductor Sizing and Overcurrent
Protection 700
E3706 Panelboards 703
CHAPTER 38 WIRING METHODS 705
Section
E3801 General Requirements 705
E3802 Above-ground Installation Requirements 705
E3803 Underground Installation Requirements 706
CHAPTER 39 POWER AND LIGHTING
DISTRIBUTION 711
Section
E3901 Receptacle Outlets 711
E3902 Ground-fault and Arc-fault
Circuit-interrupter Protection 713
E3903 Lighting Outlets 714
E3904 General Installation Requirements 715
E3905 Boxes, Conduit Bodies and Fittings 715
E3906 Installation of Boxes, Conduit
Bodies and Fittings 729
E3907 Cabinets and Panelboards 731
E3908 Grounding 732
E3909 Flexible Cords 735
CHAPTER 40 DEVICES AND LUMINAIRES .... 737
Section
E4001 Switches 737
E4002 Receptacles 738
E4003 Fixtures 739
E4004 Luminaire Installation 741
E4005 Track Lighting 741
CHAPTER 41 APPLIANCE INSTALLATION .... 743
Section
E4101 General 743
CHAPTER 42 SWIMMING POOLS 747
Section
E4201 General 747
E4202 Wiring Methods for Pools, Spas, Hot Tubs and
Hydromassage Bathtubs 747
E4203 Equipment Location and Clearances 749
E4204 Bonding 750
E4205 Grounding 753
E4206 Equipment Installation 754
E4207 Storable Swimming Pools 756
E4208 Spas and Hot Tubs 757
E4209 Hydromassage Bathtubs 757
CHAPTER 43 CLASS 2 REMOTE-CONTROL,
SIGNALING AND POWER-
LIMITED CIRCUITS 759
Section
E4301 General 759
E4302 Power Sources 759
E4303 Wiring Methods 759
E4304 Installation Requirements 759
XXIV
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Part IX — Referenced Standards 761
CHAPTER 44 REFERENCED STANDARDS 761
APPENDIX A SIZING AND CAPACITIES
OF GAS PIPING 785
APPENDIX B SIZING OF VENTING SYSTEMS
SERVING APPLIANCES EQUIPPED
WITH DRAFT HOODS, CATEGORY I
APPLIANCES, AND APPLIANCES
LISTED FOR USE WITH TYPE B
VENTS 797
APPENDIX C EXIT TERMINALS OF
MECHANICAL DRAFT AND
DIRECT-VENT VENTING
SYSTEMS .807
APPENDIX D RECOMMENDED PROCEDURE
FOR SAFETY INSPECTION OF
AN EXISTING APPLIANCE
INSTALLATION ................ 809
APPENDIX E MANUFACTURED HOUSING
USED AS DWELLINGS .811
Section
AE10I Scope 811
AE102 Application to Existing Manufactured Homes
and Building Service Equipment 811
AE201 Definitions 812
AE301 Permits 812
AE302 Application for Permit 812
AE303 Permits Issuance 813
AE304 Fees 814
AE305 Inspections 814
AE306 Special Inspections 815
AE307 Utility Service 815
AE401 Occupancy Classification 815
AE402 Location on Property 815
AE501 Design 815
AE502 Foundation Systems 816
AE503 Skirting and Perimeter Enclosures 816
AE504 Structural Additions 816
AE505 Building Service Equipment 817
AE506 Exits 817
AE507 Occupancy, Fire Safety and Energy
Conservation Standards 817
AE600 Special Requirements for
Foundation Systems 817
AE601 Footings and Foundations 817
AE602 Pier Construction 817
AE603 Height of Piers 817
AE604 Anchorage Installations 818
AE605 Ties, Materials and Installation 818
AE606 Referenced Standards 819
APPENDIX F RADON CONTROL METHODS ... 821
Section
AF101 Scope 821
AF102 Definitions 821
AF103 Requirements 821
APPENDIX G SWIMMING POOLS,
SPAS AND HOT TUBS 829
Section
AG101 General 829
AG102 Definitions 829
AG103 Swimming Pools 829
AG104 Spas and Hot Tubs 829
AG 105 Barrier Requirements 829
AG 106 Entrapment Protection for Swimming
Pool and Spa Suction Outlets 830
AG107 Abbreviations 831
AG108 Referenced Standards 831
APPENDIX H PATIO COVERS 833
Section
AH101 General 833
AH102 Definition 833
AH103 Exterior Walls and Openings 833
AH104 Height 833
AH105 Structural Provisions 833
AH 106 Special Provisions for Aluminum Screen
Enclosures in Hurricane-prone Regions .... 833
APPENDIX I PRIVATE SEWAGE DISPOSAL ... 835
Section
AI101 General 835
APPENDIX J EXISTING BUILDINGS
AND STRUCTURES 837
Section
AJ101 Purpose and Intent 837
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 18
TABLE OF CONTENTS
AJ102 Compliance 837
AJ103 Preliminary Meeting 837
AJ104 Evaluation of an Existing Building 838
AJ105 Permit 838
AJ201 Definitions 838
AJ301 Repairs 838
AJ401 Renovations 839
AJ501 Alterations 839
AJ601 Reconstruction 840
APPENDIX Q ICC INTERNATIONAL
RESIDENTIAL CODE ELECTRICAL
PROVISIONS/NATIONAL
ELECTRICAL CODE CROSS
REFERENCE 875
INDEX...
891
APPENDIX K SOUND TRANSMISSION ......... 841
Section
AK101 General 841
AK102 Air-borne Sound 841
AK103 Structural-borne Sound 841
AK104 Referenced Standards 841
APPENDIX L PERMIT FEES .843
APPENDIX M HOME DAY CARE— R-3
OCCUPANCY 845
Section
AM101 General 845
AM102 Definition 845
AM 103 Means of Egress 845
AM104 Smoke Detection 846
APPENDIX N VENTING METHODS 847
APPENDIX O AUTOMATIC VEHICULAR
GATES 853
Section
AO101 General 853
AO102 Definitions 853
AO103 Automatic Vehicular Gates 853
APPENDIX P SIZING OF WATER
PIPING SYSTEM 855
Section
AP101 Genera] 855
AP102 Information Required 855
AP103 Selection of Pipe Size 855
AP201 Selection of Pipe Size 872
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 5
Part I— Administrative
CHAPTER 1
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
PART 1— SCOPE AND APPLICATION
SECTION R1 01
GENERAL
R101.1 Title. These provisions shall be known as the Resi-
dential Code for One- and Two-family Dwellings of [NAME
OF JURISDICTION], and shall be cited as such and will be
referred to herein as "this code."
R101.2 Scope. The provisions of the International Residen-
tial Code for One- and Two-family Dwellings shall apply to
the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement,
replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location,
removal and demolition of detached one- and two-family
dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories above
grade plane in height with a separate means of egress and
their accessory structures.
Exceptions:
1. Live/work units complying with the requirements of
Section 41 9 of the International Building Code shall
be permitted to be built as one- and two-family
dwellings or townhouses. Fire suppression required
by Section 419.5 of the International Building Code
when constructed under the International Residen-
tial Code for One- and Two-family Dwellings shall
conform to Section P2904.
2. Owner-occupied lodging houses with five or fewer
guestrooms shall be permitted to be constructed in
accordance with the International Residential Code
for One- and Two-family Dwellings when equipped
with a fire sprinkler system in accordance with Sec-
tion P2904.
R101.3 Intent. The purpose of this code is to establish mini-
mum requirements to safeguard the public safety, health and
general welfare through affordability, structural strength,
means of egress facilities, stability, sanitation, light and venti-
lation, energy conservation and safety to life and property
from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environ-
ment and to provide safety to fire fighters and emergency
responders during emergency operations.
SECTION R102
APPLICABILITY
R102.1 General. Where there is a conflict between a general
requirement and a specific requirement, the specific require-
ment shall be applicable. Where, in any specific case, differ-
ent sections of this code specify different materials, methods
of construction or other requirements, the most restrictive
shall govern.
R102.2 Other laws. The provisions of this code shall not be
deemed to nullify any provisions of local, state or federal law.
R102.3 Application of references. References to chapter or
section numbers, or to provisions not specifically identified
by number, shall be construed to refer to such chapter, section
or provision of this code.
R102.4 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and
standards referenced in this code shall be considered part of
the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each
such reference and as further regulated in Sections Rl 02.4.1
andR102.4.2.
Exception: Where enforcement of a code provision would
violate the conditions of the listing of the equipment or
appliance, the conditions of the listing and manufacturer's
instructions shall apply.
R 102.4.1 Differences. Where differences occur between
provisions of this code and referenced codes and stan-
dards, the provisions of this code shall apply.
R102.4.2 Provisions in referenced codes and standards.
Where the extent of the reference to a referenced code or
standard includes subject matter that is within the scope of
this code, the provisions of this code, as applicable, shall
take precedence over the provisions in the referenced code
or standard.
R102.5 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not
apply unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordi-
nance.
R102.6 Partial invalidity. In the event any part or provision
of this code is held to be illegal or void, this shall not have the
effect of making void or illegal any of the other parts or pro-
visions.
R102.7 Existing structures. The legal occupancy of any
structure existing on the date of adoption of this code shall be
permitted to continue without change, except as is specifi-
cally covered in this code, the International Property Mainte-
nance Code or the International Fire Code, or as is deemed
necessary by the building official for the general safety and
welfare of the occupants and the public.
R102.7.1 Additions, alterations or repairs. Additions,
alterations or repairs to any structure shall conform to the
requirements for a new structure without requiring the
existing structure to comply with all of the requirements of
this code, unless otherwise stated. Additions, alterations or
repairs shall not cause an existing structure to become
unsafe or adversely affect the performance of the building.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
PART 2— ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
SECTION R1 03
DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING SAFETY
R103.1 Creation of enforcement agency. The department of
building safety is hereby created and the official in charge
thereof shall be known as the building official.
R103.2 Appointment. The building official shall be
appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdic-
tion.
R103.3 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed proce-
dures of this jurisdiction and with the concurrence of the
appointing authority, the building official shall have the
authority to appoint a deputy building official, the related
technical officers, inspectors, plan examiners and other
employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated
by the building official.
SECTION R104
DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE BUILDING OFFICIAL
R104.1 General. The building official is hereby authorized
and directed to enforce the provisions of this code. The build-
ing official shall have the authority to render interpretations
of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to
clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations,
policies and procedures shall be in conformance with the
intent and purpose of this code. Such policies and procedures
shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically
provided for in this code.
R104.2 Applications and permits. The building official
shall receive applications, review construction documents
and issue permits for the erection and alteration of buildings
and structures, inspect the premises for which such permits
have been issued and enforce compliance with the provisions
of this code.
R104.3 Notices and orders. The building official shall issue
all necessary notices or orders to ensure compliance with this
code.
R104.4 Inspections. The building official is authorized to
make all of the required inspections, or the building official
shall have the authority to accept reports of inspection by
approved agencies or individuals. Reports of such inspec-
tions shall be in writing and be certified by a responsible offi-
cer of such approved agency or by the responsible individual.
The building official is authorized to engage such expert
opinion as deemed necessary to report upon unusual technical
issues that arise, subject to the approval of the appointing
authority.
R104.5 Identification. The building official shall carry
proper identification when inspecting structures or premises
in the performance of duties under this code.
R104.6 Right of entry. Where it is necessary to make an
inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or where the
building official has reasonable cause to believe that there
exists in a structure or upon a premises a condition which is
contrary to or in violation of this code which makes the struc-
ture or premises unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the building
official or designee is authorized to enter the structure or
premises at reasonable times to inspect or to perform the
duties imposed by this code, provided that if such structure or
premises be occupied that credentials be presented to the
occupant and entry requested. If such structure or premises be
unoccupied, the building official shall first make a reasonable
effort to locate the owner or other person having charge or
control of the structure or premises and request entry. If entry
is refused, the building official shall have recourse to the rem-
edies provided by law to secure entry.
R104.7 Department records. The building official shall
keep official records of applications received, permits and
certificates issued, fees collected, reports of inspections, and
notices and orders issued. Such records shall be retained in
the official records for the period required for the retention of
public records.
R104.8 Liability. The building official, member of the board
of appeals or employee charged with the enforcement of this
code, while acting for the jurisdiction in good faith and with-
out malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code
or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be ren-
dered liable personally and is hereby relieved from personal
liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a
result of any act or by reason of an act or omission in the dis-
charge of official duties. Any suit instituted against an officer
or employee because of an act performed by that officer or
employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the pro-
visions of this code shall be defended by legal representative
of the jurisdiction until the final termination of the proceed-
ings. The building official or any subordinate shall not be lia-
ble for cost in any action, suit or proceeding that is instituted
in pursuance of the provisions of this code.
R1D4.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials,
equipment and devices approved by the building official shall
be constructed and installed in accordance with such
approval.
R104.9.1 Used materials and equipment. Used materi-
als, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless
approved by the building official.
R104.10 Modifications. Wherever there are practical diffi-
culties involved in carrying out the provisions of this code,
the building official shall have the authority to grant modifi-
cations for individual cases, provided the building official
shall first find that special individual reason makes the strict
letter of this code impractical and the modification is in com-
pliance with the intent and purpose of this code and that such
modification does not lessen health, life and fire safety or
structural requirements. The details of action granting modifi-
cations shall be recorded and entered in the files of the
department of building safety.
R104.10.1 Flood hazard areas. The building official shall
not grant modifications to any provision related to flood
hazard areas as established by Table R30 1.2(1) without
the granting of a variance to such provisions by the board
of appeals.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
R104.ll Alternative materials, design and methods of
construction and equipment. The provisions of this code
are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or
to prohibit any design or method of construction not specifi-
cally prescribed by this code, provided that any such alterna-
tive has been approved. An alternative material, design or
method of construction shall be approved where the building
official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and
complies with the intent of the provisions of this code, and
that the material, method or work offered is, for the purpose
intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this
code. Compliance with the specific performance-based provi-
sions of the International Codes in lieu of specific require-
ments of this code shall also be permitted as an alternate.
R104.ll. 1 Tests. Whenever there is insufficient evidence
of compliance with the provisions of this code, or evi-
dence that a material or method does not conform to the
requirements of this code, or in order to substantiate
claims for alternative materials or methods, the building
official shall have the authority to require tests as evidence
of compliance to be made at no expense to the jurisdiction.
Test methods shall be as specified in this code or by other
recognized test standards. In the absence of recognized
and accepted test methods, the building official shall
approve the testing procedures. Tests shall be performed
by an approved agency. Reports of such tests shall be
retained by the building official for the period required for
retention of public records.
SECTION R105
PERMITS
R105.1 Required. Any owner or authorized agent who
intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or
change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect,
install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any
electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installa-
tion of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such
work to be done, shall first make application to the building
official and obtain the required permit.
R105.2 Work exempt from permit. Permits shall not be
required for the following. Exemption from permit require-
ments of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization
for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the pro-
visions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this
jurisdiction.
Building:
1. One-story detached accessory structures used as
tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar
uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 200
square feet (18.58 m 2 ).
2. Fences not over 7 feet (2134 mm) high.
3. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet (1219 mm)
in height measured from the bottom of the footing
to the top of the wall, unless supporting a sur-
charge.
4. Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the
capacity does not exceed 5,000 gallons (18 927 L)
and the ratio of height to diameter or width does
not exceed 2 to 1 .
5. Sidewalks and driveways.
6. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets,
counter tops and similar finish work.
7. Prefabricated swimming pools that are less than 24
inches (610 mm) deep.
8. Swings and other playground equipment.
9. Window awnings supported by an exterior wall
which do not project more than 54 inches (1372
mm) from the exterior wall and do not require
additional support.
10. Decks not exceeding 200 square feet (18.58 m 2 ) in
area, that are not more than 30 inches (762 mm)
above grade at any point, are not attached to a
dwelling and do not serve the exit door required by
Section R3 11.4.
Electrical:
1. Listed cord-and-plug connected temporary decora-
tive lighting.
2. Reinstallation of attachment plug receptacles but not
the outlets therefor.
3. Replacement of branch circuit overcurrent devices
of the required capacity in the same location.
4. Electrical wiring, devices, appliances, apparatus or
equipment operating at less than 25 volts and not
capable of supplying more than 50 watts of energy.
5. Minor repair work, including the replacement of
lamps or the connection of approved portable elec-
trical equipment to approved permanently installed
receptacles.
Gas:
1. Portable heating, cooking or clothes drying appli-
ances.
2. Replacement of any minor part that does not alter
approval of equipment or make such equipment
unsafe.
3. Portable-fuel-cell appliances that are not connected
to a fixed piping system and are not interconnected
to a power grid.
Mechanical:
1 . Portable heating appliances.
2. Portable ventilation appliances.
3. Portable cooling units.
4. Steam, hot- or chilled-water piping within any heat-
ing or cooling equipment regulated by this code.
5. Replacement of any minor part that does not alter
approval of equipment or make such equipment
unsafe.
6. Portable evaporative coolers.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
7. Self-contained refrigeration systems containing 10
pounds (4.54 kg) or less of refrigerant or that are
actuated by motors of 1 horsepower (746 W) or less.
8. Portable-fuel-cell appliances that are not connected
to a fixed piping system and are not interconnected
to a power grid.
The stopping of leaks in drains, water, soil, waste or vent
pipe; provided, however, that if any concealed trap, drain-
pipe, water, soil, waste or vent pipe becomes defective and it
becomes necessary to remove and replace the same with new
material, such work shall be considered as new work and a
permit shall be obtained and inspection made as provided in
this code.
The clearing of stoppages or the repairing of leaks in pipes,
valves or fixtures, and the removal and reinstallation of water
closets, provided such repairs do not involve or require the
replacement or rearrangement of valves, pipes or fixtures.
R105.2.1 Emergency repairs. Where equipment replace-
ments and repairs must be performed in an emergency sit-
uation, the permit application shall be submitted within the
next working business day to the building official.
R105.2.2 Repairs. Application or notice to the building
official is not required for ordinary repairs to structures,
replacement of lamps or the connection of approved porta-
ble electrical equipment to approved permanently installed
receptacles. Such repairs shall not include the cutting
away of any wall, partition or portion thereof, the removal
or cutting of any structural beam or load-bearing support,
or the removal or change of any required means of egress,
or rearrangement of parts of a structure affecting the
egress requirements; nor shall ordinary repairs include
addition to, alteration of, replacement or relocation of any
water supply, sewer, drainage, drain leader, gas, soil,
waste, vent or similar piping, electric wiring or mechanical
or other work affecting public health or general safety.
R105.2.3 Public, service agencies. A permit shall not be
required for the installation, alteration or repair of genera-
tion, transmission, distribution, metering or other related
equipment that is under the ownership and control of pub-
lic service agencies by established right.
R105.3 Application for permit. To obtain a permit, the
applicant shall first file an application therefor in writing on a
form furnished by the department of building safety for that
purpose. Such application shall:
1. Identify and describe the work to be covered by the
permit for which application is made.
2. Describe the land on which the proposed work is to be
done by legal description, street address or similar
description that will readily identify and definitely
locate the proposed building or work.
3. Indicate the use and occupancy for which the proposed
work is intended.
4. Be accompanied by construction documents and other
information as required in Section R 106.1 .
5. State the valuation of the proposed work.
6. Be signed by the applicant or the applicant's authorized
agent.
7. Give such other data and information as required by the
building official.
R105.3.1 Action on application. The building official
shall examine or cause to be examined applications for
permits and amendments thereto within a reasonable time
after filing. If the application or the construction docu-
ments do not conform to the requirements of pertinent
laws, the building official shall reject such application in
writing stating the reasons therefor. If the building official
is satisfied that the proposed work conforms to the require-
ments of this code and laws and ordinances applicable
thereto, the building official shall issue a permit therefor as
soon as practicable.
R105.3.1.1 Determination of substantially improved
or substantially damaged existing buildings in flood
hazard areas. For applications for reconstruction,
rehabilitation, addition or other improvement of exist-
ing buildings or structures located in a flood hazard
area as established by Table R301.2(l), the building
official shall examine or cause to be examined the con-
struction documents and shall prepare a finding with
regard to the value of the proposed work. For buildings
that have sustained damage of any origin, the value of
the proposed work shall include the cost to repair the
building or structure to its predamaged condition. If the
building official finds that the value of proposed work
equals or exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the
building or structure before the damage has occurred or
the improvement is started, the finding shall be pro-
vided to the board of appeals for a determination of
substantial improvement or substantial damage. Appli-
cations determined by the board of appeals to constitute
substantial improvement or substantial damage shall
require all existing portions of the entire building or
structure to meet the requirements of Section R322.
R105.3.2 Time limitation of application. An application
for a permit for any proposed work shall be deemed to
have been abandoned 180 days after the date of filing
unless such application has been pursued in good faith or a
permit has been issued; except that the building official is
authorized to grant one or more extensions of time for
additional periods not exceeding 180 days each. The
extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable
cause demonstrated.
R105.4 Validity of permit. The issuance or granting of a
permit shall not be construed to be a permit for, or an
approval of, any violation of any of the provisions of this
code or of any other ordinance of the jurisdiction. Permits
presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provi-
sions of this code or other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall
not be valid. The issuance of a permit based on construction
documents and other data shall not prevent the building offi-
cial from requiring the correction of errors in the construction
documents and other data. The building official is also autho-
rized to prevent occupancy or use of a structure where in vio-
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
lation of this code or of any other ordinances of this
jurisdiction.
R105.5 Expiration. Every permit issued shall become
invalid unless the work authorized by such permit is com-
menced within 1 80 days after its issuance, or if the work
authorized by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a
period of 1 80 days after the time the work is commenced. The
building official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or
more extensions of time, for periods not more than 180 days
each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifi-
able cause demonstrated.
R105.6 Suspension or revocation. The building official is
authorized to suspend or revoke a permit issued under the
provisions of this code wherever the permit is issued in error
or on the basis of incorrect, inaccurate or incomplete informa-
tion, or in violation of any ordinance or regulation or any of
the provisions of this code.
R 105.7 Placement of permit. The building permit or copy
thereof shall be kept on the site of the work until the comple-
tion of the project.
R105.8 Responsibility. It shall be the duty of every person
who performs work for the installation or repair of building,
structure, electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing systems,
for which this code is applicable, to comply with this code.
R105.9 Preliminary inspection. Before issuing & permit, the
building official is authorized to examine or cause to be
examined buildings, structures and sites for which an applica-
tion has been filed.
SECTION R1 06
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
R106.1 Submittal documents. Submittal documents consist-
ing of construction documents, and other data shall be sub-
mitted in two or more sets with each application for a permit.
The construction documents shall be prepared by a registered
design professional where required by the statutes of the
jurisdiction in which the project is to be constructed. Where
special conditions exist, the building official is authorized to
require additional construction documents to be prepared by a
registered design professional.
Exception: The building official is authorized to waive the
submission of construction documents and other data not
required to be prepared by a registered design professional
if it is found that the nature of the work applied for is such
that reviewing of construction documents is not necessary
to obtain compliance with this code.
R106.1.1 Information on construction documents. Con-
struction documents shall be drawn upon suitable material.
Electronic media documents are permitted to be submitted
when approved by the building official. Construction doc-
uments shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the loca-
tion, nature and extent of the work proposed and show in
detail that it will conform to the provisions of this code
and relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations, as
determined by the building official. Where required by the
building official, all braced wall lines, shall be identified
on the construction documents and all pertinent informa-
tion including, but not limited to, bracing methods, loca-
tion and length of braced wall panels, foundation
requirements of braced wall panels at top and bottom shall
be provided.
R106.1.2 Manufacturer's installation instructions.
Manufacturer's installation instructions, as required by
this code, shall be available on the job site at the time of
inspection.
R106.1.3 Information for construction in flood hazard
areas. For buildings and structures located in whole or in
part in flood hazard areas as established by Table
R301.2(l), construction documents shall include:
1. Delineation of flood hazard areas, floodway bound-
aries and flood zones and the design flood elevation,
as appropriate;
2. The elevation of the proposed lowest floor, includ-
ing basement; in areas of shallow flooding (AO
Zones), the height of the proposed lowest floor,
including basement, above the highest adjacent
grade;
3. The elevation of the bottom of the lowest horizontal
structural member in coastal high hazard areas (V
Zone); and
4. If design flood elevations are not included on the
community's Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM),
the building official and the applicant shall obtain
and reasonably utilize any design flood elevation
and floodway data available from other sources.
R106.2 Site plan or plot plan. The construction documents
submitted with the application for permit shall be accompa-
nied by a site plan showing the size and location of new con-
struction and existing structures on the site and distances
from lot lines. In the case of demolition, the site plan shall
show construction to be demolished and the location and size
of existing structures and construction that are to remain on
the site or plot. The building official is authorized to waive or
modify the requirement for a site plan when the application
for permit is for alteration or repair or when otherwise war-
ranted.
R106.3 Examination of documents. The building official
shall examine or cause to be examined construction docu-
ments for code compliance.
R106.3.1 Approval of construction documents. When
the building official issues a permit, the construction docu-
ments shall be approved in writing or by a stamp which
states "REVIEWED FOR CODE COMPLIANCE." One
set of construction documents so reviewed shall be
retained by the building official. The other set shall be
returned to the applicant, shall be kept at the site of work
and shall be open to inspection by the building official or
his or her authorized representative.
R106.3.2 Previous approvals. This code shall not require
changes in the construction documents, construction or
designated occupancy of a structure for which a lawful
permit has been heretofore issued or otherwise lawfully
authorized, and the construction of which has been pur-
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sued in good faith within 180 days after the effective date
of this code and has not been abandoned.
R106.3.3 Phased approval. The building official is autho-
rized to issue a permit for the construction of foundations
or any other part of a building or structure before the con-
struction documents for the whole building or structure
have been submitted, provided that adequate information
and detailed statements have been filed complying with
pertinent requirements of this code. The holder of such
permit for the foundation or other parts of a building or
structure shall proceed at the holder's own risk with the
building operation and without assurance that a permit for
the entire structure will be granted.
R106.4 Amended construction documents. Work shall be
installed in accordance with the approved construction docu-
ments, and any changes made during construction that are not
in compliance with the approved construction documents
shall be resubmitted for approval as an amended set of con-
struction documents.
R106.5 Retention of construction documents. One set of
approved construction documents shall be retained by the
building official for a period of not less than 180 days from
date of completion of the permitted work, or as required by
state or local laws.
R108.2 Schedule of permit fees. On buildings, structures,
electrical, gas, mechanical and plumbing systems or altera-
tions requiring a permit, a fee for each permit shall be paid as
required, in accordance with the schedule as established by
the applicable governing authority.
R108.3 Building permit valuations. Building permit valua-
tion shall include total value of the work for which a permit is
being issued, such as electrical, gas, mechanical, plumbing
equipment and other permanent systems, including materials
and labor.
R108.4 Related fees. The payment of the fee for the con-
struction, alteration, removal or demolition for work done in
connection with or concurrently with the work authorized by
a building permit shall not relieve the applicant or holder of
the permit from the payment of other fees that are prescribed
by law.
R108.5 Refunds. The building official is authorized to estab-
lish a refund policy.
R108.6 Work commencing before permit issuance. Any
person who commences work requiring a permit on a build-
ing, structure, electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system
before obtaining the necessary permits shall be subject to a
fee established by the applicable governing authority that
shall be in addition to the required permit fees.
SECTION R107
TEMPORARY STRUCTURES AND USES
R107.1 General. The building official is authorized to issue a
permit for temporary structures and temporary uses. Such
permits shall be limited as to time of service, but shall not be
permitted for more than 180 days. The building official is
authorized to grant extensions for demonstrated cause.
R107.2 Conformance. Temporary structures and uses shall
conform to the structural strength, fire safety, means of
egress, light, ventilation and sanitary requirements of this
code as necessary to ensure the public health, safety and gen-
eral welfare.
R107.3 Temporary power. The building official is autho-
rized to give permission to temporarily supply and use power
in part of an electric installation before such installation has
been fully completed and the final certificate of completion
has been issued. The part covered by the temporary certificate
shall comply with the requirements specified for temporary
lighting, heat or power in NFPA 70.
R107.4 Termination of approval. The building official is
authorized to terminate such permit for a temporary structure
or use and to order the temporary structure or use to be dis-
continued.
SECTION R1 08
FEES
R108.1 Payment of fees. A permit shall not be valid until the
fees prescribed by law have been paid. Nor shall an amend-
ment to a permit be released until the additional fee, if any,
has been paid.
SECTION R1 09
INSPECTIONS
R 109.1 Types of inspections. For onsite construction, from
time to time the building official, upon notification from the
permit holder or his agent, shall make or cause to be made
any necessary inspections and shall either approve that por-
tion of the construction as completed or shall notify the per-
mit holder or his or her agent wherein the same fails to
comply with this code.
R109.1.1 Foundation inspection. Inspection of the foun-
dation shall be made after poles or piers are set or trenches
or basement areas are excavated and any required forms
erected and any required reinforcing steel is in place and
supported prior to the placing of concrete. The foundation
inspection shall include excavations for thickened slabs
intended for the support of bearing walls, partitions, struc-
tural supports, or equipment and special requirements for
wood foundations.
R109.1.2 Plumbing, mechanical, gas and electrical sys-
tems inspection. Rough inspection of plumbing, mechani-
cal, gas and electrical systems shall be made prior to
covering or concealment, before fixtures or appliances are
set or installed, and prior to framing inspection.
Exception: Backfilling of ground-source heat pump
loop systems tested in accordance with Section
M2105.1 prior to inspection shall be permitted.
R109.1.3 Floodplain inspections. For construction in
flood hazard areas as established by Table R301.2(l),
upon placement of the lowest floor, including basement,
and prior to further vertical construction, the building offi-
cial shall require submission of documentation, prepared
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and sealed by a registered design professional, of the ele-
vation of the lowest floor, including basement, required in
Section R322.
R109.1.4 Frame and masonry inspection. Inspection of
framing and masonry construction shall be made after the
roof, masonry, all framing, firestopping, draftstopping and
bracing are in place and after the plumbing, mechanical
and electrical rough inspections are approved.
R 109.1 .5 Other inspections. In addition to the called
inspections above, the building official may make or
require any other inspections to ascertain compliance with
this code and other laws enforced by the building official.
R109.1.5.1 Fire-resistance-rated construction
inspection. Where fire-resistance-rated construction is
required between dwelling units or due to location on
property, the building official shall require an inspec-
tion of such construction after all lathing and/or wall-
board is in place, but before any plaster is applied, or
before wallboard joints and fasteners are taped and fin-
ished.
R109.1.6 Final inspection. Final inspection shall be made
after the permitted work is complete and prior to occu-
pancy.
R109. 1.6.1 Elevation documentation. If located in a
flood hazard area, the documentation of elevations
required in Section R322.1.10 shall be submitted to the
building official prior to the final inspection.
R109.2 Inspection agencies. The building official is autho-
rized to accept reports of approved agencies, provided such
agencies satisfy the requirements as to qualifications and reli-
ability.
R109.3 Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the permit
holder or their agent to notify the building official that such
work is ready for inspection. It shall be the duty of the person
requesting any inspections required by this code to provide
access to and means for inspection of such work.
R109.4 Approval required. Work shall not be done beyond
the point indicated in each successive inspection without first
obtaining the approval of the building official. The building
official upon notification, shall make the requested inspec-
tions and shall either indicate the portion of the construction
that is satisfactory as completed, or shall notify the permit
holder or an agent of the permit holder wherein the same fails
to comply with this code. Any portions that do not comply
shall be corrected and such portion shall not be covered or
concealed until authorized by the building official.
SECTION R1 10
CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY
R110.1 Use and occupancy. No building or structure shall
be used or occupied, and no change in the existing occupancy
classification of a building or structure or portion thereof
shall be made until the building official has issued a certifi-
cate of occupancy therefor as provided herein. Issuance of a
certificate of occupancy shall not be construed as an approval
of a violation of the provisions of this code or of other ordi-
nances of the jurisdiction. Certificates presuming to give
authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or
other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid.
Exceptions:
1 . Certificates of occupancy are not required for work
exempt from permits under Section R105.2.
2. Accessory buildings or structures.
Rl 10.2 Change in use. Changes in the character or use of an
existing structure shall not be made except as specified in
Sections 3408 and 3409 of the International Building Code.
R110.3 Certificate issued. After the building official
inspects the building or structure and finds no violations of
the provisions of this code or other laws that are enforced by
the department of building safety, the building official shall
issue a certificate of occupancy which shall contain the fol-
lowing:
1. The building permit number.
2. The address of the structure.
3. The name and address of the owner.
4. A description of that portion of the structure for which
the certificate is issued.
5. A statement that the described portion of the structure
has been inspected for compliance with the require-
ments of this code.
6. The name of the building official.
7. The edition of the code under which the permit was
issued.
8. If an automatic sprinkler system is provided and
whether the sprinkler system is required.
9. Any special stipulations and conditions of the building
permit.
R110.4 Temporary occupancy. The building official is
authorized to issue a temporary certificate of occupancy
before the completion of the entire work covered by the per-
mit, provided that such portion or portions shall be occupied
safely. The building official shall set a time period during
which the temporary certificate of occupancy is valid.
R110.5 Revocation. The building official shall, in writing,
suspend or revoke a certificate of occupancy issued under the
provisions of this code wherever the certificate is issued in
error, or on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or
where it is determined that the building or structure or portion
thereof is in violation of any ordinance or regulation or any of
the provisions of this code.
SECTION R1 11
SERVICE UTILITIES
Rlll.l Connection of service utilities. No person shall
make connections from a utility, source of energy, fuel or
power to any building or system that is regulated by this code
for which & permit is required, until approved by the building
official.
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R111.2 Temporary connection. The building official shall
have the authority to authorize and approve the temporary
connection of the building or system to the utility, source of
energy, fuel or power.
R111.3 Authority to disconnect service utilities. The build-
ing official shall have the authority to authorize disconnection
of utility service to the building, structure or system regulated
by this code and the referenced codes and standards set forth
in Section R 102.4 in case of emergency where necessary to
eliminate an immediate hazard to life or property or when
such utility connection has been made without the approval
required by Section Rlll.l or Rill. 2. The building official
shall notify the serving utility and whenever possible the
owner and occupant of the building, structure or service sys-
tem of the decision to disconnect prior to taking such action if
not notified prior to disconnection. The owner or occupant of
the building, structure or service system shall be notified in
writing as soon as practical thereafter.
SECTION R1 12
BOARD OF APPEALS
R112.1 General. In order to hear and decide appeals of
orders, decisions or determinations made by the building offi-
cial relative to the application and interpretation of this code,
there shall be and is hereby created a board of appeals. The
building official shall be an ex officio member of said board
but shall have no vote on any matter before the board. The
board of appeals shall be appointed by the governing body
and shall hold office at its pleasure. The board shall adopt
rules of procedure for conducting its business, and shall ren-
der all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant with
a duplicate copy to the building official.
R 112.2 Limitations on authority. An application for appeal
shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this code or
the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly
interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply, or
an equally good or better form of construction is proposed.
The board shall have no authority to waive requirements of
this code.
R112.2.1 Determination of substantial improvement in
flood hazard areas. When the building official provides a
finding required in Section R105.3.1.1, the board of
appeals shall determine whether the value of the proposed
work constitutes a substantial improvement. A substantial
improvement means any repair, reconstruction, rehabilita-
tion, addition or improvement of a building or structure,
the cost of which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the mar-
ket value of the building or structure before the improve-
ment or repair is started. If the building or structure has
sustained substantial damage, all repairs are considered
substantial improvement regardless of the actual repair
work performed. The term does not include:
1 . Improvements of a building or structure required to
correct existing health, sanitary or safety code viola-
tions identified by the building official and which
are the minimum necessary to assure safe living
conditions; or
2. Any alteration of an historic building or structure,
provided that the alteration will not preclude the
continued designation as an historic building or
structure. For the purpose of this exclusion, an his-
toric building is:
2.1. Listed or preliminarily determined to be eli-
gible for listing in the National Register of
Historic Places; or
2.2. Determined by the Secretary of the U.S.
Department of Interior as contributing to the
historical significance of a registered historic
district or a district preliminarily determined
to qualify as an historic district; or
2.3. Designated as historic under a state or local
historic preservation program that is
approved by the Department of Interior.
Rl 12.2.2 Criteria for issuance of a variance for flood
hazard areas. A variance shall be issued only upon:
1. A showing of good and sufficient cause that the
unique characteristics of the size, configuration or
topography of the site render the elevation standards
in Section R322 inappropriate.
2. A determination that failure to grant the variance
would result in exceptional hardship by rendering
the lot undevelopable.
3. A determination that the granting of a variance will
not result in increased flood heights, additional
threats to public safety, extraordinary public
expense, cause fraud on or victimization of the pub-
lic, or conflict with existing local laws or ordi-
nances.
4. A determination that the variance is the minimum
necessary to afford relief, considering the flood haz-
ard.
5. Submission to the applicant of written notice speci-
fying the difference between the design flood eleva-
tion and the elevation to which the building is to be
built, stating that the cost of flood insurance will be
commensurate with the increased risk resulting from
the reduced floor elevation, and stating that con-
struction below the design flood elevation increases
risks to life and property.
R112.3 Qualifications. The board of appeals shall consist of
members who are qualified by experience and training to pass
on matters pertaining to building construction and are not
employees of the jurisdiction.
R112.4 Administration. The building official shall take
immediate action in accordance with the decision of the
board.
SECTION R1 13
VIOLATIONS
R113.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person,
firm or corporation to erect, construct, alter, extend, repair,
move, remove, demolish or occupy any building, structure or
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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equipment regulated by this code, or cause same to be done,
in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this
code.
R113.2 Notice of violation. The building official is autho-
rized to serve a notice of violation or order on the person
responsible for the erection, construction, alteration, exten-
sion, repair, moving, removal, demolition or occupancy of a
building or structure in violation of the provisions of this
code, or in violation of a detail statement or a plan approved
thereunder, or in violation of a permit or certificate issued
under the provisions of this code. Such order shall direct the
discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the
abatement of the violation.
R113.3 Prosecution of violation. If the notice of violation is
not complied with in the time prescribed by such notice, the
building official is authorized to request the legal counsel of
the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate proceeding at law
or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation, or to
require the removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy
of the building or structure in violation of the provisions of
this code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto.
R113.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a pro-
vision of this code or fails to comply with any of the require-
ments thereof or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a
building or structure in violation of the approved construc-
tion documents or directive of the building official, or of a
permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code,
shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.
SECTION R114
STOP WORK ORDER
R114.1 Notice to owner. Upon notice from the building offi-
cial that work on any building or structure is being prose-
cuted contrary to the provisions of this code or in an unsafe
and dangerous manner, such work shall be immediately
stopped. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be
given to the owner of the property involved, or to the owner's
agent or to the person doing the work and shall state the con-
ditions under which work will be permitted to resume.
R 114.2 Unlawful continuance. Any person who shall con-
tinue any work in or about the structure after having been
served with a stop work order, except such work as that per-
son is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe
condition, shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
10 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
Part II — Definitions
CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS
SECTION R201
GENERAL
R201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the follow-
ing words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have
the meanings indicated in this chapter.
R201.2 Intel-changeability. Words used in the present tense
include the future; words in the masculine gender include the
feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural
and the plural, the singular.
R201J Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not
defined in this code such terms shall have meanings ascribed
to them as in other code publications of the International
Code Council.
R201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined
through the methods authorized by this section, such terms
shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context
implies.
SECTION R202
DEFINITIONS
ACCESSIBLE. Signifies access that requires the removal of
an access panel or similar removable obstruction.
ACCESSIBLE, READILY. Signifies access without the
necessity for removing a panel or similar obstruction.
ACCESSORY STRUCTURE. A structure not greater than
3,000 square feet (279 m 2 ) in floor area, and not over two sto-
ries in height, the use of which is customarily accessory to
and incidental to that of the dwelling(s) and which is located
on the same lot.
ADDITION. An extension or increase in floor area or height
of a building or structure.
ADHERED STONE OR MASONRY VENEER. Stone or
masonry veneer secured and supported through the adhesion
of an approved bonding material applied to an approved
backing.
AIR ADMITTANCE VALVE. A one-way valve designed
to allow air into the plumbing drainage system when a nega-
tive pressure develops in the piping. This device shall close
by gravity and seal the terminal under conditions of zero dif-
ferential pressure (no flow conditions) and under positive
internal pressure.
AIR BARRIER. See Section Nl 101.9 for definition applica-
ble in Chapter 1 1 .
AIR BREAK (DRAINAGE SYSTEM). An arrangement in
which a discharge pipe from a fixture, appliance or device
drains indirectly into a receptor below the flood-level rim of
the receptor, and above the trap seal.
AIR CIRCULATION, FORCED. A means of providing
space conditioning utilizing movement of air through ducts or
plenums by mechanical means.
AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEM. A system that consists
of heat exchangers, blowers, filters, supply, exhaust and
return-air systems, and shall include any apparatus installed
in connection therewith.
AIR GAP, DRAINAGE SYSTEM. The unobstructed verti-
cal distance through free atmosphere between the outlet of a
waste pipe and the flood-level rim of the fixture or receptor
into which it is discharging.
AIR GAP, WATER-DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM. The
unobstructed vertical distance through free atmosphere
between the lowest opening from a water supply discharge to
the flood-level rim of a plumbing fixture.
AIR-IMPERMEABLE INSULATION. An insulation hav-
ing an air permanence equal to or less than 0.02 L/s-m 2 at 75
Pa pressure differential tested according to ASTM E 2178 or
E283.
ALTERATION. Any construction or renovation to an exist-
ing structure other than repair or addition that requires a per-
mit. Also, a change in a mechanical system that involves an
extension, addition or change to the arrangement, type or pur-
pose of the original installation that requires a permit.
ANCHORED STONE OR MASONRY VENEER. Stone
or masonry veneer secured with approved mechanical fasten-
ers to an approved backing.
ANCHORS. See "Supports."
ANT1S1PHON. A term applied to valves or mechanical
devices that eliminate siphonage.
APPLIANCE. A device or apparatus that is manufactured
and designed to utilize energy and for which this code pro-
vides specific requirements.
APPROVED. Acceptable to the building official.
APPROVED AGENCY. An established and recognized
agency regularly engaged in conducting tests or furnishing
inspection services, when such agency has been approved by
the building official.
ASPECT RATIO. The ratio of longest to shortest perpendic-
ular dimensions, or for wall sections, the ratio of height to
length.
ATTIC. The unfinished space between the ceiling assembly
of the top story and the roof assembly.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
11
DEFINITIONS
ATTIC, HABITABLE. A finished or unfinished area, not
considered a story, complying with all of the following
requirements:
1. The occupiable floor area is at least 70 square feet (17
m 2 ), in accordance with Section R304,
2. The occupiable floor area has a ceiling height in accor-
dance with Section R305, and
3. The occupiable space is enclosed by the roof assembly
above, knee walls (if applicable) on the sides and the
floor-ceiling assembly below.
BACKFLOW, DRAINAGE. A reversal of flow in the
drainage system.
BACKFLOW PREVENTER. A device or means to prevent
backflow.
BACKFLOW PREVENTER, REDUCED-PRESSURE-
ZONE TYPE. A backflow-prevention device consisting of
two independently acting check valves, internally force
loaded to a normally closed position and separated by an
intermediate chamber (or zone) in which there is an auto-
matic relief means of venting to atmosphere internally loaded
to a normally open position between two tightly closing shut-
off valves and with means for testing for tightness of the
checks and opening of relief means.
BACKFLOW, WATER DISTRIBUTION. The flow of
water or other liquids into the potable water-supply piping
from any sources other than its intended source. Backsiphon-
age is one type of backflow.
BACKPRESSURE. Pressure created by any means in the
water distribution system, which by being in excess of the
pressure in the water supply mains causes a potential back-
flow condition.
BACKPRESSURE, LOW HEAD. A pressure less than or
equal to 4.33 psi (29.88 kPa) or the pressure exerted by a 10-
foot (3048 mm) column of water.
BACKSIPHONAGE. The flowing back of used or contami-
nated water from piping into a potable water-supply pipe due
to a negative pressure in such pipe.
BACKWATER VALVE. A device installed in a drain or
pipe to prevent backflow of sewage.
■ BASEMENT. A story that is not a story above grade plane.
(see "Story above grade plane").
BASEMENT WALL. The opaque portion of a wall that
encloses one side of a basement and has an average below
grade wall area that is 50 percent or more of the total opaque
and non-opaque area of that enclosing side.
I BASIC WIND SPEED. Three-second gust speed at 33 feet
(10 058 mm) above the ground in Exposure C (see Section
R301.2.1) as given in Figure R301.2(4)A.
BATHROOM GROUP. A group of fixtures, including or
excluding a bidet, consisting of a water closet, lavatory, and
bathtub or shower. Such fixtures are located together on the
same floor level.
BEND. A drainage fitting, designed to provide a change in
direction of a drain pipe of less than the angle specified by the
amount necessary to establish the desired slope of the line
(see "Elbow" and "Sweep").
BOILER. A self-contained appliance from which hot water
is circulated for heating purposes and then returned to the
boiler, and which operates at water pressures not exceeding
160 pounds per square inch gage (psig) (1 102 kPa gauge) and
at water temperatures not exceeding 250°F (121°C).
BOND BEAM. A horizontal grouted element within
masonry in which reinforcement is embedded.
BRACED WALL LINE. A straight line through the build-
ing plan that represents the location of the lateral resistance
provided by the wall bracing.
BRACED WALL LINE, CONTINUOUSLY
SHEATHED. A braced wall line with structural sheathing
applied to all sheathable surfaces including the areas above
and below openings.
BRACED WALL PANEL. A full-height section of wall
constructed to resist in-plane shear loads through interaction
of framing members, sheathing material and anchors. The
panel's length meets the requirements of its particular bracing
method, and contributes toward the total amount of bracing
required along its braced wall line in accordance with Section
R602.10.1.
BRANCH. Any part of the piping system other than a riser,
main or stack.
BRANCH, FIXTURE. See "Fixture branch, drainage."
BRANCH, HORIZONTAL. See "Horizontal branch, drain-
age."
BRANCH INTERVAL. A vertical measurement of dis-
tance, 8 feet (2438 mm) or more in developed length,
between the connections of horizontal branches to a drainage
stack. Measurements are taken down the stack from the high-
est horizontal branch connection.
BRANCH, MAIN. A water-distribution pipe that extends
horizontally off a main or riser to convey water to branches or
fixture groups.
BRANCH, VENT. A vent connecting two or more individ-
ual vents with a vent stack or stack vent.
BTU/H. The listed maximum capacity of an appliance,
absorption unit or burner expressed in British thermal units
input per hour.
BUILDING. Building shall mean any one- and two-family
dwelling or portion thereof, including townhouses, that is
used, or designed or intended to be used for human habita-
tion, for living, sleeping, cooking or eating purposes, or any
combination thereof, and shall include accessory structures
thereto.
BUILDING DRAIN. The lowest piping that collects the dis-
charge from all other drainage piping inside the house and
extends 30 inches (762 mm) in developed length of pipe,
beyond the exterior walls and conveys the drainage to the
building sewer.
BUILDING, EXISTING. Existing building is a building
erected prior to the adoption of this code, or one for which a
legal building permit has been issued.
12
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
DEFINITIONS
BUILDING LINE. The line established by law, beyond
which a building shall not extend, except as specifically pro-
vided by law.
BUILDING OFFICIAL. The officer or other designated
authority charged with the administration and enforcement of
this code.
BUILDING SEWER. That part of the drainage system that
extends from the end of the building drain and conveys its
discharge to a public sewer, private sewer, individual sew-
age-disposal system or other point of disposal.
BUILDING THERMAL ENVELOPE. The basement
walls, exterior walls, floor, roof and any other building ele-
ment that enclose conditioned spaces.
BUILT-UP ROOF COVERING. Two or more layers of felt
cemented together and surfaced with a cap sheet, mineral
aggregate, smooth coating or similar surfacing material.
CAP PLATE. The top plate of the double top plates used in
structural insulated panel (SIP) construction. The cap plate is
cut to match the panel thickness such that it overlaps the
wood structural panel facing on both sides.
CEILING HEIGHT. The clear vertical distance from the
finished floor to the finished ceiling.
CEMENT PLASTER. A mixture of portland or blended
cement, portland cement or blended cement and hydrated
lime, masonry cement or plastic cement and aggregate and
other approved materials as specified in this code.
CHIMNEY. A primary vertical structure containing one or
more flues, for the purpose of carrying gaseous products of
combustion and air from a fuel-burning appliance to the out-
side atmosphere.
CHIMNEY CONNECTOR. A pipe that connects a fuel-
burning appliance to a chimney.
CHIMNEY TYPES.
Residential-type appliance. An approved chimney for
removing the products of combustion from fuel-burning,
residential-type appliances producing combustion gases
not in excess of 1,000°F (538°C) under normal operating
conditions, but capable of producing combustion gases of
1 ,400°F (760°C) during intermittent forces firing for peri-
ods up to 1 hour. All temperatures shall be measured at the
appliance flue outlet. Residential-type appliance chim-
neys include masonry and factory-built types.
CIRCUIT VENT. A vent that connects to a horizontal drain-
age branch and vents two traps to a maximum of eight traps
or trapped fixtures connected into a battery.
CLADDING. The exterior materials that cover the surface of
the building envelope that is directly loaded by the wind.
CLEANOUT. An accessible opening in the drainage system
used for the removal of possible obstruction.
CLOSET. A small room or chamber used for storage.
COMBINATION WASTE AND VENT SYSTEM. A spe-
cially designed system of waste piping embodying the hori-
| zontal wet venting of one or more sinks, lavatories or floor
drains by means of a common waste and vent pipe adequately
sized to provide free movement of air above the flow line of
the drain.
COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL. Any material not defined
as noncombustible.
COMBUSTION AIR. The air provided to fuel-burning
equipment including air for fuel combustion, draft hood dilu-
tion and ventilation of the equipment enclosure.
[CE] COMMERCIAL, BUILDING. See Section Nl 101.9.
COMMON VENT. A single pipe venting two trap arms
within the same branch interval, either back-to-back or one
above the other.
CONDENSATE. The liquid that separates from a gas due to
a reduction in temperature, e.g., water that condenses from
flue gases and water that condenses from air circulating
through the cooling coil in air conditioning equipment.
CONDENSING APPLIANCE. An appliance that con-
denses water generated by the burning of fuels.
CONDITIONED AIR. Air treated to control its temperature,
relative humidity or quality.
CONDITIONED AREA. That area within a building pro-
vided with heating and/or cooling systems or appliances
capable of maintaining, through design or heat loss/gain,
68°F (20°C) during the heating season and/or 80°F (27°C)
during the cooling season, or has a fixed opening directly
adjacent to a conditioned area.
CONDITIONED FLOOR AREA. The horizontal projec-
tion of the floors associated with the conditioned space.
CONDITIONED SPACE. For energy purposes, space
within a building that is provided with heating and/or cooling
equipment or systems capable of maintaining, through design
or heat loss/gain, 50°F (10°C) during the heating season and
85°F (29°C) during the cooling season, or communicates
directly with a conditioned space. For mechanical purposes,
an area, room or space being heated or cooled by any equip-
ment or appliance.
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS. Written, graphic and
pictorial documents prepared or assembled for describing the
design, location and physical characteristics of the elements
of a project necessary for obtaining a building permit. Con-
struction drawings shall be drawn to an appropriate scale.
CONTAMINATION. An impairment of the quality of the
potable water that creates an actual hazard to the public
health through poisoning or through the spread of disease by
sewage, industrial fluids or waste.
CONTINUOUS WASTE. A drain from two or more similar
adjacent fixtures connected to a single trap.
CONTROL, LIMIT. An automatic control responsive to
changes in liquid flow or level, pressure, or temperature for
limiting the operation of an appliance.
CONTROL, PRIMARY SAFETY. A safety control
responsive directly to flame properties that senses the pres-
ence or absence of flame and, in event of ignition failure or
unintentional flame extinguishment, automatically causes
shutdown of mechanical equipment.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
13
DEFINITIONS
CONVECTOR. A system-incorporating heating element in
an enclosure in which air enters an opening below the heating
element, is heated and leaves the enclosure through an open-
ing located above the heating element.
CORE. The light-weight middle section of the structural
insulated panel composed of foam plastic insulation, which
provides the link between the two facing shells.
CORROSION RESISTANCE. The ability of a material to
withstand deterioration of its surface or its properties when
exposed to its environment.
COURT. A space, open and unobstructed to the sky, located
at or above grade level on a lot and bounded on three or more
sides by walls or a building.
CRIPPLE WALL. A framed wall extending from the top of
the foundation to the underside of the floor framing of the
first story above grade plane.
CROSS CONNECTION. Any connection between two oth-
erwise separate piping systems whereby there may be a flow
from one system to the other.
CURTAIN WALL. See Section N1101.9 for definition
applicable in Chapter 1 1 .
DALLE GLASS. A decorative composite glazing material
made of individual pieces of glass that are embedded in a cast
matrix of concrete or epoxy.
DAMPER, VOLUME. A device that will restrict, retard or
direct the flow of air in any duct, or the products of combus-
tion of heat-producing equipment, vent connector, vent or
chimney.
DEAD END. A branch leading from a DWV system termi-
nating at a developed length of 2 feet (610 mm) or more.
Dead ends shall be prohibited except as an approved part of a
rough-in for future connection.
DEAD LOADS. The weight of all materials of construction
incorporated into the building, including but not limited to
walls, floors, roofs, ceilings, stairways, built-in partitions,
finishes, cladding, and other similarly incorporated architec-
tural and structural items, and fixed service equipment.
DECORATIVE GLASS. A carved, leaded or Dalle glass or
glazing materia] whose purpose is decorative or artistic, not
functional; whose coloring, texture or other design qualities
or components cannot be removed without destroying the
glazing material; and whose surface, or assembly into which
it is incorporated, is divided into segments.
DEMAND RECIRCULATION WATER SYSTEM. See
Section Nil 01. 9 for definition applicable in Chapter 11.
DESIGN PROFESSIONAL. See "Registered design profes-
sional."
DEVELOPED LENGTH. The length of a pipeline mea-
sured along the center line of the pipe and fittings.
DIAMETER. Unless specifically stated, the term "diameter"
is the nominal diameter as designated by the approved mate-
rial standard.
DIAPHRAGM. A horizontal or nearly horizontal system
acting to transmit lateral forces to the vertical resisting ele-
ments. When the term "diaphragm" is used, it includes hori-
zontal bracing systems.
DILUTION AIR. Air that enters a draft hood or draft regula-
tor and mixes with flue gases.
DIRECT- VENT APPLIANCE. A fuel-burning appliance
with a sealed combustion system that draws all air for com-
bustion from the outside atmosphere and discharges all flue
gases to the outside atmosphere.
DRAFT. The pressure difference existing between the appli-
ance or any component part and the atmosphere, that causes a
continuous flow of air and products of combustion through
the gas passages of the appliance to the atmosphere.
Induced draft. The pressure difference created by the
action of a fan, blower or ejector, that is located between
the appliance and the chimney or vent termination.
Natural draft. The pressure difference created by a vent
or chimney because of its height, and the temperature dif-
ference between the flue gases and the atmosphere.
DRAFT HOOD. A device built into an appliance, or a part
of the vent connector from an appliance, which is designed to
provide for the ready escape of the flue gases from the appli-
ance in the event of no draft, backdraft or stoppage beyond
the draft hood; prevent a backdraft from entering the appli-
ance; and neutralize the effect of stack action of the chimney
or gas vent on the operation of the appliance.
DRAFT REGULATOR. A device that functions to maintain
a desired draft in the appliance by automatically reducing the
draft to the desired value.
DRAFT STOP. A material, device or construction installed
to restrict the movement of air within open spaces of con-
cealed areas of building components such as crawl spaces,
floor-ceiling assemblies, roof-ceiling assemblies and attics.
DRAIN. Any pipe that carries soil and water-borne wastes in
a building drainage system.
DRAINAGE FITTING. A pipe fitting designed to provide
connections in the drainage system that have provisions for
establishing the desired slope in the system. These fittings are
made from a variety of both metals and plastics. The methods
of coupling provide for required slope in the system (see
"Durham fitting").
DUCT SYSTEM. A continuous passageway for the trans-
mission of air which, in addition to ducts, includes duct fit-
tings, dampers, plenums, fans and accessory air-handling
equipment and appliances. For definition applicable in Chap-
ter 11, see Section Nl 101.9.
DURHAM FITTING. A special type of drainage fitting for
use in the Durham systems installations in which the joints
are made with recessed and tapered threaded fittings, as
opposed to bell and spigot lead/oakum or solvent/cemented
or soldered joints. The tapping is at an angle (not 90 degrees)
to provide for proper slope in otherwise rigid connections.
DURHAM SYSTEM. A term used to describe soil or waste
systems where all piping is of threaded pipe, tube or other
such rigid construction using recessed drainage fittings to
correspond to the types of piping.
14
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
DEFINITIONS
DWELLING. Any building that contains one or two dwell-
ing units used, intended, or designed to be built, used, rented,
leased, let or hired out to be occupied, or that are occupied for
living purposes.
DWELLING UNIT. A single unit providing complete inde-
pendent living facilities for one or more persons, including
permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking
and sanitation.
DWV. Abbreviated term for drain, waste and vent piping as
used in common plumbing practice.
EFFECTIVE OPENING. The minimum cross-sectional
area at the point of water-supply discharge, measured or
expressed in terms of diameter of a circle and if the opening
is not circular, the diameter of a circle of equivalent cross-
sectional area. (This is applicable to air gap.)
ELBOW. A pressure pipe fitting designed to provide an
exact change in direction of a pipe run. An elbow provides a
sharp turn in the flow path (see "Bend" and "Sweep").
EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE OPENING. An
operable exterior window, door or similar device that pro-
vides for a means of escape and access for rescue in the event
of an emergency.
EQUIPMENT. All piping, ducts, vents, control devices and
other components of systems other than appliances that are
permanently installed and integrated to provide control of
environmental conditions for buildings. This definition shall
also include other systems specifically regulated in this code.
EQUIVALENT LENGTH. For determining friction losses
in a piping system, the effect of a particular fitting equal to
the friction loss through a straight piping length of the same
nominal diameter.
ESCARPMENT. With respect to topographic wind effects, a
cliff or steep slope generally separating two levels or gently
sloping areas.
ESSENTIALLY NONTOXIC TRANSFER FLUIDS. Flu-
ids having a Gosselin rating of 1 , including propylene glycol;
mineral oil; polydimethy oil oxane; hydrochlorofluorocarbon,
chlorofluorocarbon and hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants; and
FDA-approved boiler water additives for steam boilers.
ESSENTIALLY TOXIC TRANSFER FLUIDS. Soil,
water or gray water and fluids having a Gosselin rating of 2
or more including ethylene glycol, hydrocarbon oils, ammo-
nia refrigerants and hydrazine.
EVAPORATIVE COOLER. A device used for reducing air
temperature by the process of evaporating water into an air-
stream.
EXCESS AIR. Air that passes through the combustion
chamber and the appliance flue in excess of that which is the-
oretically required for complete combustion.
EXHAUST HOOD, FULL OPENING. An exhaust hood
with an opening at least equal to the diameter of the connect-
ing vent.
EXISTING INSTALLATIONS. Any plumbing system reg-
ulated by this code that was legally installed prior to the
effective date of this code, or for which a permit to install has
been issued.
EXTERIOR INSULATION AND FINISH SYSTEMS
(EIFS). EIFS are nonstructural, nonload-bearing exterior
wall cladding systems that consist of an insulation board
attached either adhesively or mechanically, or both, to the
substrate; an integrally reinforced base coat; and a textured
protective finish coat.
EXTERIOR INSULATION AND FINISH SYSTEMS
(EIFS) WITH DRAINAGE. An EIFS that incorporates a
means of drainage applied over a water-resistive barrier.
EXTERIOR WALL. An above-grade wall that defines the
exterior boundaries of a building. Includes between-floor
spandrels, peripheral edges of floors, roof and basement knee
walls, dormer walls, gable end walls, walls enclosing a man-
sard roof and basement walls with an average below-gracfe
wall area that is less than 50 percent of the total opaque and
nonopaque area of that enclosing side.
EXTERIOR WALL COVERING. A material or assembly
of materials applied on the exterior side of exterior walls for
the purpose of providing a weather-resistive barrier, insula-
tion or for aesthetics, including but not limited to, veneers,
siding, exterior insulation and finish systems, architectural
trim and embellishments such as cornices, soffits, and fas-
cias.
FACING. The wood structural panel facings that form the
two outmost rigid layers of the structural insulated panel.
FACTORY-BUILT CHIMNEY. A listed and labeled chim-
ney composed of factory-made components assembled in the
field in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and
the conditions of the listing.
FENESTRATION. Skylights, roof windows, vertical win-
dows (whether fixed or moveable); opaque doors; glazed
doors; glass block; and combination opaque/glazed doors.
For definition applicable in Chapter 1 1, see Section Nl 101.9
FIBER-CEMENT SIDING. A manufactured, fiber-rein-
forcing product made with an inorganic hydraulic or calcium
silicate binder formed by chemical reaction and reinforced
with discrete organic or inorganic nonasbestos fibers, or both.
Additives which enhance manufacturing or product perfor-
mance are permitted. Fiber-cement siding products have
either smooth or textured faces and are intended for exterior
wall and related applications.
FIREBLOCKING. Building materials or materials
approved for use as fireblocking, installed to resist the free
passage of flame to other areas of the building through con-
cealed spaces.
FIREPLACE. An assembly consisting of a hearth and fire
chamber of noncombustible material and provided with a
chimney, for use with solid fuels.
Factory-built fireplace. A listed and labeled fireplace
and chimney system composed of factory-made compo-
nents, and assembled in the field in accordance with man-
ufacturer's instructions and the conditions of the listing.
Masonry chimney. A field-constructed chimney com-
posed of solid masonry units, bricks, stones or concrete.
Masonry fireplace. A field-constructed fireplace com-
posed of solid masonry units, bricks, stones or concrete.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
15
DEFINITIONS
FIREPLACE STOVE. A free-standing, chimney-con-
nected solid-fuel-burning heater designed to be operated with
the fire chamber doors in either the open or closed position.
FIREPLACE THROAT. The opening between the top of
the firebox and the smoke chamber.
FIRE-RETARDANT-TREATED WOOD. Pressure-
treated lumber and plywood that exhibit reduced surface
burning characteristics and resist propagation of fire.
Other means during manufacture. A process where the
wood raw material is treated with a fire-retardant formula-
tion while undergoing creation as a finished product.
Pressure process. A process for treating wood using an
initial vacuum followed by the introduction of pressure
above atmospheric.
FIRE SEPARATION DISTANCE. The distance measured
from the building face to one of the following:
1. To the closest interior lot line; or
2. To the centerline of a street, an alley or public way; or
3. To an imaginary line between two buildings on the lot.
The distance shall be measured at a right angle from the
face of the wall.
FIXTURE. See "Plumbing fixture."
FIXTURE BRANCH, DRAINAGE. A drain serving two or
more fixtures that discharges into another portion of the
drainage system.
FIXTURE BRANCH, WATER-SUPPLY. A water-supply
pipe between the fixture supply and a main water-distribution
pipe or fixture group main.
FIXTURE DRAIN. The drain from the trap of a fixture to
the junction of that drain with any other drain pipe.
FIXTURE FITTING,
Supply fitting. A fitting that controls the volume and/or
directional flow of water and is either attached to or acces-
sible from a fixture or is used with an open or atmospheric
discharge.
Waste fitting. A combination of components that conveys
the sanitary waste from the outlet of a fixture to the con-
nection of the sanitary drainage system.
FIXTURE GROUP, MAIN. The main water-distribution
pipe (or secondary branch) serving a plumbing fixture group-
ing such as a bath, kitchen or laundry area to which two or
more individual fixture branch pipes are connected.
FIXTURE SUPPLY. The water-supply pipe connecting a
fixture or fixture fitting to a fixture branch.
FIXTURE UNIT, DRAINAGE (d.f.u.). A measure of prob-
able discharge into the drainage system by various types of
plumbing fixtures, used to size DWV piping systems. The
drainage fixture-unit value for a particular fixture depends on
its volume rate of drainage discharge, on the time duration of
a single drainage operation and on the average time between
successive operations.
FIXTURE UNIT, WATER-SUPPLY (w.s.f.u.). A measure
of the probable hydraulic demand on the water supply by var-
ious types of plumbing fixtures used to size water-piping sys-
tems. The water-supply fixture-unit value for a particular
fixture depends on its volume rate of supply, on the time
duration of a single supply operation and on the average time
between successive operations.
FLAME SPREAD. The propagation of flame over a surface.
FLAME SPREAD INDEX. A comparative measure,
expressed as a dimensionless number, derived from visual
measurements of the spread of flame versus time for a mate-
rial tested in accordance with ASTM E 84 or UL 723.
FLIGHT. A continuous run of rectangular treads or winders
or combination thereof from one landing to another.
FLOOD-LEVEL RIM. The edge of the receptor or fixture
from which water overflows.
FLOOR DRAIN. A plumbing fixture for recess in the floor
having a floor-level strainer intended for the purpose of the
collection and disposal of waste water used in cleaning the
floor and for the collection and disposal of accidental spillage
to the floor.
FLOOR FURNACE. A self-contained furnace suspended
from the floor of the space being heated, taking air for com-
bustion from outside such space, and with means for lighting
the appliance from such space.
FLOW PRESSURE. The static pressure reading in the
water-supply pipe near the faucet or water outlet while the
faucet or water outlet is open and flowing at capacity.
FLUE. See "Vent."
FLUE, APPLIANCE. The passages within an appliance
through which combustion products pass from the combus-
tion chamber to the flue collar.
FLUE COLLAR. The portion of a fuel-burning appliance
designed for the attachment of a draft hood, vent connector or
venting system.
FLUE GASES. Products of combustion plus excess air in
appliance flues or heat exchangers.
FLUSH VALVE. A device located at the bottom of a flush
tank that is operated to flush water closets.
FLUSHOMETER TANK. A device integrated within an air
accumulator vessel that is designed to discharge a predeter-
mined quantity of water to fixtures for flushing purposes.
FLUSHOMETER VALVE. A flushometer valve is a device
that discharges a predetermined quantity of water to fixtures
for flushing purposes and is actuated by direct water pressure.
FOAM BACKER BOARD. Foam plastic used in siding
applications where the foam plastic is a component of the sid-
ing.
FOAM PLASTIC INSULATION. A plastic that is inten-
tionally expanded by the use of a foaming agent to produce a
reduced-density plastic containing voids consisting of open
or closed cells distributed throughout the plastic for thermal
insulating or acoustic purposes and that has a density less
than 20 pounds per cubic foot (320 kg/m 3 ) unless it is used as
interior trim.
FOAM PLASTIC INTERIOR TRIM. Exposed foam plas-
tic used as picture molds, chair rails, crown moldings, base-
boards, handrails, ceiling beams, door trim and window trim
16
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
DEFINITIONS
and similar decorative or protective materials used in fixed
applications.
FUEL-PIPING SYSTEM. All piping, tubing, valves and fit-
tings used to connect fuel utilization equipment to the point of
fuel delivery.
FULLWAY VALVE. A valve that in the full open position
has an opening cross-sectional area equal to a minimum of 85
percent of the cross-sectional area of the connecting pipe.
FURNACE. A vented heating appliance designed or
arranged to discharge heated air into a conditioned space or
through a duct or ducts.
GLAZING AREA. The interior surface area of all glazed
fenestration, including the area of sash, curbing or other
framing elements, that enclose conditioned space. Includes
the area of glazed fenestration assemblies in walls bounding
conditioned basements.
GRADE. The finished ground level adjoining the building at
all exterior walls.
GRADE FLOOR OPENING. A window or other opening
located such that the sill height of the opening is not more
than 44 inches (1118 mm) above or below the finished
ground level adjacent to the opening.
GRADE, PIPING. See "Slope."
GRADE PLANE. A reference plane representing the aver-
age of the finished ground level adjoining the building at all
exterior walls. Where the finished ground level slopes away
from the exterior walls, the reference plane shall be estab-
lished by the lowest points within the area between the build-
ing and the lot line or, where the lot line is more than 6 feet
(1829 mm) from the building between the structure and a
point 6 feet (1829 mm) from the building.
■ GRAY WATER. Waste discharged from lavatories, bathtubs,
showers, clothes washers and laundry trays.
GRIDDED WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM. A water
distribution system where every water distribution pipe is
interconnected so as to provide two or more paths to each fix-
ture supply pipe.
GROSS AREA OF EXTERIOR WALLS. The normal pro-
jection of all exterior walls, including the area of all windows
and doors installed therein.
GROUND-SOURCE HEAT PUMP LOOP SYSTEM.
Piping buried in horizontal or vertical excavations or placed
in a body of water for the purpose of transporting heat trans-
fer liquid to and from a heat pump. Included in this definition
are closed loop systems in which the liquid is recirculated and
open loop systems in which the liquid is drawn from a well or
other source.
GUARD. A building component or a system of building
components located near the open sides of elevated walking
surfaces that minimizes the possibility of a fall from the
walking surface to the lower level.
■ GUESTROOM. Any room or rooms used or intended to be
used by one or more guests for living or sleeping purposes.
HABITABLE SPACE. A space in a building for living,
sleeping, eating or cooking. Bathrooms, toilet rooms, closets,
halls, storage or utility spaces and similar areas are not con-
sidered habitable spaces.
HANDRAIL. A horizontal or sloping rail intended for grasp-
ing by the hand for guidance or support.
HANGERS. See "Supports."
HAZARDOUS LOCATION. Any location considered to be
a fire hazard for flammable vapors, dust, combustible fibers
or other highly combustible substances.
HEAT PUMP. An appliance having heating or heating/cool-
ing capability and that uses refrigerants to extract heat from
air, liquid or other sources.
HEATING DEGREE DAYS (HDD). The sum, on an
annual basis, of the difference between 65°F (18°C) and the
mean temperature for each day as determined from "NOAA
Annual Degree Days to Selected Bases Derived from the
1960-1990 Normals" or other weather data sources accept-
able to the code official.
HEIGHT, BUILDING. The vertical distance from grade
plane to the average height of the highest roof surface.
HEIGHT, STORY. The vertical distance from top to top of
two successive tiers of beams or finished floor surfaces; and,
for the topmost story, from the top of the floor finish to the
top of the ceiling joists or, where there is not a ceiling, to the
top of the roof rafters.
HIGH-EFFICACY LAMPS. See Section N1101.9 for defi-
nition applicable in Chapter 1 1 .
HIGH-TEMPERATURE (H.T.) CHIMNEY. A high tem-
perature chimney complying with the requirements of UL
103. A Type H.T. chimney is identifiable by the markings
"Type H.T." on each chimney pipe section.
HILL. With respect to topographic wind effects, a land sur-
face characterized by strong relief in any horizontal direction.
HORIZONTAL BRANCH, DRAINAGE. A drain pipe
extending laterally from a soil or waste stack or building
drain, that receives the discharge from one or more fixture
drains.
HORIZONTAL PIPE. Any pipe or fitting that makes an
angle of less than 45 degrees (0.79 rad) with the horizontal.
HOT WATER. Water at a temperature greater than or equal
tollO°F(43°C).
HURRICANE-PRONE REGIONS. Areas vulnerable to
hurricanes, defined as the U.S. Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of
Mexico coasts where the basic wind speed is greater than 90
miles per hour (40 m/s), and Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam, Vir-
gin Islands, and America Samoa.
HYDROGEN GENERATING APPLIANCE. A self-con-
tained package or factory-matched packages of integrated
systems for generating gaseous hydrogen. Hydrogen generat-
ing appliances utilize electrolysis, reformation, chemical, or
other processes to generate hydrogen.
IGNITION SOURCE. A flame, spark or hot surface capable
of igniting flammable vapors or fumes. Such sources include
appliance burners, burner ignitions and electrical switching
devices.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
17
DEFINITIONS
INDIRECT WASTE PIPE. A waste pipe that discharges
into the drainage system through an air gap into a trap, fixture
or receptor.
INDIVIDUAL SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEM. A system
for disposal of sewage by means of a septic tank or mechani-
cal treatment, designed for use apart from a public sewer to
serve a single establishment or building.
INDIVIDUAL VENT. A pipe installed to vent a single-fu-
ture drain that connects with the vent system above or termi-
nates independently outside the building.
INDIVIDUAL WATER SUPPLY. A supply other than an
approved public water supply that serves one or more fami-
lies.
INSULATING CONCRETE EORM (ICF). A concrete
forming system using stay-in-place forms of rigid foam plas-
tic insulation, a hybrid of cement and foam insulation, a
hybrid of cement and wood chips, or other insulating material
for constructing cast-in-place concrete walls.
INSULATING SHEATHING. An insulating board having a
minimum thermal resistance of R-2 of the core material. For
definition applicable in Chapter 1 1 , see Section Nl 1 01 .9.
JURISDICTION. The governmental unit that has adopted
this code under due legislative authority.
KITCHEN. Kitchen shall mean an area used, or designated
to be used, for the preparation of food.
LABEL. An identification applied on a product by the manu-
facturer which contains the name of the manufacturer, the
function and performance characteristics of the product or
material, and the name and identification of an approved
agency and that indicates that the representative sample of the
product or material has been tested and evaluated by an
approved agency. (See also "Manufacturer's designation"
and "Mark.")
LABELED. Equipment, materials or products to which have
been affixed a label, seal, symbol or other identifying mark of
a nationally recognized testing laboratory, inspection agency
or other organization concerned with product evaluation that
maintains periodic inspection of the production of the above-
labeled items and whose labeling indicates either that the
equipment, material or product meets identified standards or
has been tested and found suitable for a specified purpose.
LIGHT-FRAME CONSTRUCTION. A type of construc-
tion whose vertical and horizontal structural elements are pri-
marily formed by a system of repetitive wood or cold-formed
steel framing members.
LISTED. Equipment, materials, products or services
included in a list published by an organization acceptable to
the code official and concerned with evaluation of products
or services that maintains periodic inspection of production
of listed equipment or materials or periodic evaluation of ser-
vices and whose listing states either that the equipment, mate-
rial, product or service meets identified standards or has been
tested and found suitable for a specified purpose.
LIVE LOADS. Those loads produced by the use and occu-
pancy of the building or other structure and do not include
construction or environmental loads such as wind load, snow
load, rain load, earthquake load, flood load or dead load.
LIVING SPACE. Space within a dwelling unit utilized for
living, sleeping, eating, cooking, bathing, washing and sanita-
tion purposes.
LOCAL EXHAUST. An exhaust system that uses one or
more fans to exhaust air from a specific room or rooms within
a dwelling.
LODGING HOUSE. A one-family dwelling where one or
more occupants are primarily permanent in nature, and rent is
paid for guestrooms.
LOT. A portion or parcel of land considered as a unit.
LOT LINE. A line dividing one lot from another, or from a
street or any public place.
MACERATING TOILET SYSTEMS. A system comprised
of a sump with macerating pump and with connections for a
water closet and other plumbing fixtures, that is designed to
accept, grind and pump wastes to an approved point of dis-
charge.
MAIN. The principal pipe artery to which branches may be
connected.
MAIN SEWER. See "Public sewer."
MANIFOLD WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS. A
fabricated piping arrangement in which a large supply main is
fitted with multiple branches in close proximity in which
water is distributed separately to fixtures from each branch.
MANUFACTURED HOME. Manufactured home means a
structure, transportable in one or more sections, which in the
traveling mode is 8 body feet (2438 body mm) or more in
width or 40 body feet (12 192 body mm) or more in length,
or, when erected on site, is 320 square feet (30 m 2 ) or more,
and which is built on a permanent chassis and designed to be
used as a dwelling with or without a permanent foundation
when connected to the required utilities, and includes the
plumbing, heating, air-conditioning and electrical systems
contained therein; except that such term shall include any
structure that meets all the requirements of this paragraph
except the size requirements and with respect to which the
manufacturer voluntarily files a certification required by the
secretary (HUD) and complies with the standards established
under this title. For mobile homes built prior to June 15,
1976, a label certifying compliance to the Standard for
Mobile Homes, NFPA 501, in effect at the time of manufac-
ture is required. For the purpose of these provisions, a mobile
home shall be considered a manufactured home.
MANUFACTURER'S DESIGNATION. An identification
applied on a product by the manufacturer indicating that a
product or material complies with a specified standard or set
of rules. (See also '"Mark" and "■Label")
MANUFACTURER'S INSTALLATION INSTRUC-
TIONS. Printed instructions included with equipment as part
of the conditions of listing and labeling.
MARK. An identification applied on a product by the manu-
facturer indicating the name of the manufacturer and the
function of a product or material. (See also "Manufacturer's
designation" and "Label.'")
18
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
DEFINITIONS
MASONRY CHIMNEY. A field-constructed chimney com-
posed of solid masonry units, bricks, stones or concrete.
MASONRY HEATER. A masonry heater is a solid fuel
burning heating appliance constructed predominantly of con-
crete or solid masonry having a mass of at least 1,100 pounds
(500 kg), excluding the chimney and foundation. It is
designed to absorb and store a substantial portion of heat
from a fire built in the firebox by routing exhaust gases
through internal heat exchange channels in which the flow
path downstream of the firebox includes at least one 180-
degree (3.14-rad) change in flow direction before entering the
chimney and which deliver heat by radiation through the
masonry surface of the heater.
MASONRY, SOLID. Masonry consisting of solid masonry
units laid contiguously with the joints between the units filled
with mortar.
MASONRY UNIT. Brick, tile, stone, glass block or concrete
block conforming to the requirements specified in Section
2103 of the International Building Code.
Clay. A building unit larger in size than a brick, composed
of burned clay, shale, fire clay or mixtures thereof.
Concrete. A building unit or block larger in size than 12
inches by 4 inches by 4 inches (305 mm by 102 mm by
102 mm) made of cement and suitable aggregates.
Glass. Nonload-bearing masonry composed of glass units
bonded by mortar.
Hollow. A masonry unit whose net cross-sectional area in
any plane parallel to the loadbearing surface is less than 75
percent of its gross cross-sectional area measured in the
same plane.
Solid. A masonry unit whose net cross-sectional area in
every plane parallel to the loadbearing surface is 75 per-
cent or more of its cross- sectional area measured in the
same plane.
MASS WALL. Masonry or concrete walls having a mass
greater than or equal to 30 pounds per square foot (146 kg/m 2 ),
solid wood walls having a mass greater than or equal to 20
pounds per square foot (98 kg/m 2 ), and any other walls having
a heat capacity greater than or equal to 6 Btu/ft 2 • °F [266 J/(m 2
•K)].
MEAN ROOF HEIGHT. The average of the roof eave
height and the height to the highest point on the roof surface,
except that eave height shall be used for roof angle of less
than or equal to 10 degrees (0.18 rad).
MECHANICAL DRAFT SYSTEM. A venting system
designed to remove flue or vent gases by mechanical means,
that consists of an induced draft portion under nonpositive
static pressure or a forced draft portion under positive static
pressure.
Forced-draft venting system. A portion of a venting sys-
tem using a fan or other mechanical means to cause the
removal of flue or vent gases under positive static pres-
sure.
Induced draft venting system. A portion of a venting
system using a fan or other mechanical means to cause the
removal of flue or vent gases under nonpositive static vent
pressure.
Power venting system. A portion of a venting system
using a fan or other mechanical means to cause the
removal of flue or vent gases under positive static vent
pressure.
MECHANICAL EXHAUST SYSTEM. A system for
removing air from a room or space by mechanical means.
MECHANICAL SYSTEM. A system specifically addressed
and regulated in this code and composed of components,
devices, appliances and equipment.
METAL ROOF PANEL. An interlocking metal sheet hav-
ing a minimum installed weather exposure of at least 3 square
feet (0.28 m 2 ) per sheet.
METAL ROOF SHINGLE. An interlocking metal sheet
having an installed weather exposure less than 3 square feet
(0.28 m 2 ) per sheet.
MEZZANINE, LOFT. An intermediate level or levels
between the floor and ceiling of any story with an aggregate
floor area of not more than one-third of the area of the room
or space in which the level or levels are located.
MODIFIED BITUMEN ROOF COVERING. One or more
layers of polymer modified asphalt sheets. The sheet materi-
als shall be fully adhered or mechanically attached to the sub-
strate or held in place with an approved ballast layer.
MULTIPLE STATION SMOKE ALARM. Two or more
single station alarm devices that are capable of interconnec-
tion such that actuation of one causes all integral or separate
audible alarms to operate.
NATURAL DRAFT SYSTEM. A venting system designed
to remove flue or vent gases under nonpositive static vent
pressure entirely by natural draft.
NATURALLY DURABLE WOOD. The heartwood of the
following species with the exception that an occasional piece
with corner sapwood is permitted if 90 percent or more of the
width of each side on which it occurs is heartwood.
Decay resistant. Redwood, cedar, black locust and black
walnut.
Termite resistant. Alaska yellow cedar, redwood, Eastern
red cedar and Western red cedar including all sapwood of
Western red cedar.
NONCOMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL. Materials that pass
the test procedure for defining noncombustibility of elemen-
tary materials set forth in ASTM E 1 36.
NONCONDITIONED SPACE. A space that is not a condi-
tioned space by insulated walls, floors or ceilings.
NOSING. The leading edge of treads of stairs and of land-
ings at the top of stairway flights.
OCCUPIED SPACE. The total area of all buildings or struc-
tures on any lot or parcel of ground projected on a horizontal
plane, excluding permitted projections as allowed by this
code.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 18
19
DEFINITIONS
OFFSET. A combination of fittings that makes two changes
in direction bringing one section of the pipe out of line but
into a line parallel with the other section.
OWNER. Any person, agent, firm or corporation having a
legal or equitable interest in the property.
PAN FLASHING. Corrosion-resistant flashing at the base of
an opening that is integrated into the building exterior wall to
direct water to the exterior and is premanufactured, fabri-
cated, formed or applied at the job site.
PANEL THICKNESS. Thickness of core plus two layers of
structural wood panel facings.
PELLET FUEL-BURNING APPLIANCE. A closed com-
bustion, vented appliance equipped with a fuel feed mecha-
nism for burning processed pellets of solid fuel of a specified
size and composition.
PELLET VENT. A vent listed and labeled for use with a
listed pellet fuel-burning appliance.
PERFORMANCE CATEGORY. A designation of wood
structural panels as related to the panel performance used in
Chapters 4, 5, 6 and 8.
PERMIT. An official document or certificate issued by the
authority having jurisdiction that authorizes performance of a
specified activity.
PERSON. An individual, heirs, executors, administrators or
assigns, and also includes a firm, partnership or corporation,
its or their successors or assigns, or the agent of any of the
aforesaid.
PHOTOVOLTAIC MODULES/SHINGLES. A roof cov-
ering composed of flat-plate photovoltaic modules fabricated
into shingles.
PITCH. See "Slope."
PLATFORM CONSTRUCTION. A method of construc-
tion by which floor framing bears on load bearing walls that
are not continuous through the story levels or floor framing.
PLENUM. A chamber that forms part of an air-circulation
system other than the occupied space being conditioned.
PLUMBING. For the purpose of this code, plumbing refers
to those installations, repairs, maintenance and alterations
regulated by Chapters 25 through 33.
PLUMBING APPLIANCE. An energized household appli-
ance with plumbing connections, such as a dishwasher, food-
waste grinder, clothes washer or water heater.
PLUMBING APPURTENANCE. A device or assembly
that is an adjunct to the basic plumbing system and demands
no additional water supply nor adds any discharge load to the
system. It is presumed that it performs some useful function
in the operation, maintenance, servicing, economy or safety
of the plumbing system. Examples include filters, relief
valves and aerators.
PLUMBING FIXTURE. A receptacle or device that is con-
nected to a water supply system or discharges to a drainage
system or both. Such receptacles or devices require a supply
of water; or discharge liquid waste or liquid-borne solid
waste; or require a supply of water and discharge waste to a
drainage system.
PLUMBING SYSTEM. Includes the water supply and dis-
tribution pipes, plumbing fixtures, supports and appurte-
nances; soil, waste and vent pipes; sanitary drains and
building sewers to an approved point of disposal.
POLLUTION. An impairment of the quality of the potable
water to a degree that does not create a hazard to the public
health but that does adversely and unreasonably affect the
aesthetic qualities of such potable water for domestic use.
PORTABLE-FUEL-CELL APPLIANCE. A fuel cell gen-
erator of electricity, which is not fixed in place. A portable-
fuel-cell appliance utilizes a cord and plug connection to a
grid-isolated load and has an integral fuel supply.
POSITIVE ROOF DRAINAGE. The drainage condition in
which consideration has been made for all loading deflections
of the roof deck, and additional slope has been provided to
ensure drainage of the roof within 48 hours of precipitation.
POTABLE WATER. Water free from impurities present in
amounts sufficient to cause disease or harmful physiological
effects and conforming in bacteriological and chemical qual-
ity to the requirements of the public health authority having
jurisdiction.
PRECAST CONCRETE. A structural concrete element cast
elsewhere than its final position in the structure.
PRECAST CONCRETE FOUNDATION WALLS. Preen-
gineered, precast concrete wall panels that are designed to
withstand specified stresses and used to build below-grade
foundations.
PRESSURE-RELIEF VALVE. A pressure-actuated valve
held closed by a spring or other means and designed to auto-
matically relieve pressure at the pressure at which it is set.
PUBLIC SEWER. A common sewer directly controlled by
public authority.
PUBLIC WATER MAIN. A water-supply pipe for public
use controlled by public authority.
PUBLIC WAY. Any street, alley or other parcel of land
open to the outside air leading to a public street, which has
been deeded, dedicated or otherwise permanently appropri-
ated to the public for public use and that has a clear width and
height of not less than 10 feet (3048 mm).
PURGE. To clear of air, gas or other foreign substances.
QUICK-CLOSING VALVE. A valve or faucet that closes
automatically when released manually or controlled by
mechanical means for fast-action closing.
i?-VALUE, THERMAL RESISTANCE. The inverse of the
time rate of heat flow through a building thermal envelope
element from one of its bounding surfaces to the other for a
unit temperature difference between the two surfaces, under
steady state conditions, per unit area (h • ft 2 - °F/Btu).
RAMP. A walking surface that has a running slope steeper
than 1 unit vertical in 20 units horizontal (5-percent slope).
RECEPTOR. A fixture or device that receives the discharge
from indirect waste pipes.
20
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 9
DEFINITIONS
REFRIGERANT. A substance used to produce refrigeration
by its expansion or evaporation.
REFRIGERANT COMPRESSOR. A specific machine,
with or without accessories, for compressing a given refriger-
ant vapor.
REFRIGERATING SYSTEM. A combination of intercon-
nected parts forming a closed circuit in which refrigerant is
circulated for the purpose of extracting, then rejecting, heat.
A direct refrigerating system is one in which the evaporator
or condenser of the refrigerating system is in direct contact
with the air or other substances to be cooled or heated. An
indirect refrigerating system is one in which a secondary
coolant cooled or heated by the refrigerating system is circu-
lated to the air or other substance to be cooled or heated.
REGISTERED DESIGN PROFESSIONAL. An individual
who is registered or licensed to practice their respective
design profession as defined by the statutory requirements of
the professional registration laws of the state or jurisdiction
in which the project is to be constructed.
RELIEF VALVE, VACUUM. A device to prevent exces-
sive buildup of vacuum in a pressure vessel.
REPAIR. The reconstruction or renewal of any part of an
existing building for the purpose of its maintenance. For defi-
nition applicable in Chapter 11, see Section Nl 101.9
REROOFING. The process of recovering or replacing an
existing roof covering. See "Roof recover."
RETURN AIR. Air removed from an approved conditioned
space or location and recirculated or exhausted.
RIDGE. With respect to topographic wind effects, an elon-
gated crest of a hill characterized by strong relief in two
directions.
RISER.
1 . The vertical component of a step or stair.
2, A water pipe that extends vertically one full story or
more to convey water to branches or to a group of fix-
tures.
ROOF ASSEMBLY. A system designed to provide weather
protection and resistance to design loads. The system consists
of a roof covering and roof deck or a single component serv-
ing as both the roof covering and the roof deck. A roof assem-
bly includes the roof deck, vapor retarder, substrate or
thermal barrier, insulation, vapor retarder, and roof covering.
ROOF COVERING. The covering applied to the roof deck
for weather resistance, fire classification or appearance.
ROOF COVERING SYSTEM. See "Roof assembly."
ROOF DECK. The flat or sloped surface not including its
supporting members or vertical supports.
ROOF RECOVER. The process of installing an additional
roof covering over a prepared existing roof covering without
removing the existing roof covering.
ROOF REPAIR. Reconstruction or renewal of any part of
an existing roof for the purposes of its maintenance.
ROOFTOP STRUCTURE. An enclosed structure on or
above the roof of any part of a building.
ROOM HEATER. A freestanding heating appliance
installed in the space being heated and not connected to ducts.
ROUGH-IN. The installation of all parts of the plumbing
system that must be completed prior to the installation of fix-
tures. This includes DWV, water supply and built-in fixture
supports.
RUNNING BOND. The placement of masonry units such
that head joints in successive courses are horizontally offset
at least one-quarter the unit length.
SANITARY SEWER. A sewer that carries sewage and
excludes storm, surface and groundwater.
SCUPPER. An opening in a wall or parapet that allows water
to drain from a roof.
SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY (SDC). A classification
assigned to a structure based on its occupancy category and
the severity of the design earthquake ground motion at the
site.
SEPTIC TANK. A water-tight receptor that receives the dis-
charge of a building sanitary drainage system and is con-
structed so as to separate solids from the liquid, digest
organic matter through a period of detention, and allow the
liquids to discharge into the soil outside of the tank through a
system of open joint or perforated piping or a seepage pit.
SEWAGE. Any liquid waste containing animal matter, vege-
table matter or other impurity in suspension or solution.
SEWAGE PUMP. A permanently installed mechanical
device for removing sewage or liquid waste from a sump.
SHALL. The term, when used in the code, is construed as
mandatory.
SHEAR WALL. A general term for walls that are designed
and constructed to resist racking from seismic and wind by
use of masonry, concrete, cold-formed steel or wood framing
in accordance with Chapter 6 of this code and the associated
limitations in Section R301.2 of this code.
SIDE VENT. A vent connecting to the drain pipe through a
fitting at an angle less than 45 degrees (0.79 rad) to the hori-
zontal.
SINGLE PLY MEMBRANE. A roofing membrane that is
field applied using one layer of membrane material (either
homogeneous or composite) rather than multiple layers.
SINGLE STATION SMOKE ALARM. An assembly
incorporating the detector, control equipment and alarm
sounding device in one unit that is operated from a power
supply either in the unit or obtained at the point of installa-
tion.
SKYLIGHT. See Section Nl 101.9 for definition applicable
in Chapter 11.
SKYLIGHT AND SLOPED GLAZING. See Section
R308.6.1.
SKYLIGHT, UNIT. See Section R308.6.1.
SLEEPING UNIT. See Section Nl 101.9 for definition
applicable in Chapter 1 1 .
SLIP JOINT. A mechanical-type joint used primarily on fix-
ture traps. The joint tightness is obtained by compressing a
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
21
DEFINITIONS
friction-type washer such as rubber, nylon, neoprene, lead or
special packing material against the pipe by the tightening of
a (slip) nut.
SLOPE. The fall (pitch) of a line of pipe in reference to a
horizontal plane. In drainage, the slope is expressed as the fall
in units vertical per units horizontal (percent) for a length of
pipe.
SMOKE-DEVELOPED INDEX. A comparative measure,
expressed as a dimensionless number, derived from measure-
ments of smoke obscuration versus time for a material tested
in accordance with ASTM E 84 or UL 723.
SOIL STACK OR PIPE. A pipe that conveys sewage con-
taining fecal material.
SOLAR HEAT GAIN COEFFICIENT (SHGC). The solar
heat gain through a fenestration or glazing assembly relative
to the incident solar radiation (Btu/h • ft 2 • °F).
SOLID MASONRY. Load-bearing or nonload-bearing con-
struction using masonry units where the net cross-sectional
area of each unit in any plane parallel to the bearing surface is
not less than 75 percent of its gross cross-sectional area. Solid
masonry units shall conform to ASTM C 55, C 62, C 73, C
145 or C 216.
SPLINE. A strip of wood structural panel cut from the same
material used for the panel facings, used to connect two struc-
tural insulated panels. The strip (spline) fits into a groove cut
into the vertical edges of the two structural insulated panels to
be joined. Splines are used behind each facing of the struc-
tural insulated panels being connected as shown in Figure
R613.8.
STACK. Any main vertical DWV line, including offsets, that
extends one or more stories as directly as possible to its vent
terminal.
STACK BOND. The placement of masonry units in a bond
pattern is such that head joints in successive courses are verti-
cally aligned. For the purpose of this code, requirements for
stack bond shall apply to all masonry laid in other than run-
ning bond.
STACK VENT. The extension of soil or waste stack above
the highest horizontal drain connected.
STACK VENTING. A method of venting a fixture or fix-
tures through the soil or waste stack without individual fix-
ture vents.
STAIR. A change in elevation, consisting of one or more ris-
ers.
STAIRWAY. One or more flights of stairs, either interior or
exterior, with the necessary landings and platforms connect-
ing them to form a continuous and uninterrupted passage
from one level to another within or attached to a building,
porch or deck.
STANDARD TRUSS. Any construction that does not permit
the roof/ceiling insulation to achieve the required fl-value
over the exterior walls.
STATIONARY FUEL CELL POWER PLANT. A self-
contained package or factory-matched packages which con-
stitute an automatically-operated assembly of integrated sys-
tems for generating useful electrical energy and recoverable
thermal energy that is permanently connected and fixed in
place.
STORM SEWER, DRAIN. A pipe used for conveying rain-
water, surface water, subsurface water and similar liquid
waste.
STORY. That portion of a building included between the
upper surface of a floor and the upper surface of the floor or
roof next above.
STORY ABOVE GRADE PLANE. Any story having its
finished floor surface entirely above grade plane, or in which
the finished surface of the floor next above is:
1 . More than 6 feet (1 829 mm) above grade plane; or
2. More than 12 feet (3658 mm) above the finished
ground level at any point.
STRUCTURAL COMPOSITE LUMBER. Structural
members manufactured using wood elements bonded
together with exterior adhesives.
Examples of structural composite lumber are:
Laminated veneer lumber (LVL). A composite of wood
veneer elements with wood fibers primarily oriented along
the length of the member, where the veneer element thick-
nesses are 0.25 inches (6.4 mm) or less.
Parallel strand lumber (PSL). A composite of wood
strand elements with wood fibers primarily oriented along
the length of the member, where the least dimension of the
wood strand elements is 0.25 inch (6.4 mm) or less and
their average lengths are a minimum of 300 times the least
dimension of the wood strand elements.
Laminated strand lumber (LSL). A composite of wood
strand elements with wood fibers primarily oriented along
the length of the member, where the least dimension of the
wood strand elements is 0.10 inch (2.54 mm) or less and
their average lengths are a minimum of 150 times the least
dimension of the wood strand elements.
Oriented strand lumber (OSL). A composite of wood
strand elements with wood fibers primarily oriented along
the length of the member, where the least dimension of the
wood strand elements is 0.10 inch (2.54 mm) or less and
their average lengths are a minimum of 75 times and less
than 150 times the least dimension of the wood strand ele-
ments.
STRUCTURAL INSULATED PANEL (SIP). A structural
sandwich panel that consists of a light-weight foam plastic
core securely laminated between two thin, rigid wood struc-
tural panel facings.
STRUCTURE. That which is built or constructed.
SUBSOIL DRAIN. A drain that collects subsurface water or
seepage water and conveys such water to a place of disposal.
SUMP. A tank or pit that receives sewage or waste, located
below the normal grade of the gravity system and that must
be emptied by mechanical means.
SUMP PUMP. A pump installed to empty a sump. These
pumps are used for removing storm water only. The pump is
22
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
DEFINITIONS
selected for the specific head and volume of the load and is
usually operated by level controllers.
SUNROOM. A one-story structure attached to a dwelling
with a glazing area in excess of 40 percent of the gross area
of the structure's exterior walls and roof. For definition appli-
cable in Chapter 1 1, see Section Nl 101 .9.
SUPPLY AIR. Air delivered to a conditioned space through
ducts or plenums from the heat exchanger of a heating, cool-
ing or ventilating system.
SUPPORTS. Devices for supporting, hanging and securing
pipes, fixtures and equipment.
SWEEP. A drainage fitting designed to provide a change in
direction of a drain pipe of less than the angle specified by the
amount necessary to establish the desired slope of the line.
Sweeps provide a longer turning radius than bends and a less
turbulent flow pattern (see "Bend" and "Elbow").
TEMPERATURE- AND PRESSURE-RELIEF (T AND
P) VALVE. A combination relief valve designed to function
as both a temperature-relief and pressure-relief valve.
TEMPERATURE-RELIEF VALVE. A temperature-actu-
ated valve designed to discharge automatically at the temper-
ature at which it is set.
TERMITE-RESISTANT MATERIAL. Pressure-preserva-
tive treated wood in accordance with the AWPA standards in
Section R318.1, naturally durable termite-resistant wood,
steel, concrete, masonry or other approved material.
THERMAL ISOLATION. Physical and space conditioning
separation from conditioned space(s) consisting of existing or
new walls, doors and/or windows. The conditioned space(s)
shall be controlled as separate zones for heating and cooling
or conditioned by separate equipment. For definition applica-
ble in Chapter 11, see Section Nl 101.9.
THERMAL RESISTANCE, ff-VALUE. The inverse of the
time rate of heat flow through a body from one of its bound-
ing surfaces to the other for a unit temperature difference
between the two surfaces, under steady state conditions, per
unit area (h • ft 2 • °F/Btu) (m 2 • K)/W.
THERMAL TRANSMITTANCE, fZ-FACTOR. The coef-
ficient of heat transmission (air to air) through a building
envelope component or assembly, equal to the time rate of
heat flow per unit area and unit temperature difference
between the warm side and cold side air films (Btu/h • ft 2 • °F)
W/(m 2 • K).
THIRD-PARTY CERTIFICATION AGENCY. An
approved agency operating a product or material certification
system that incorporates initial product testing, assessment
and surveillance of a manufacturer's quality control system.
THIRD PARTY CERTIFIED. Certification obtained by the
manufacturer indicating that the function and performance
characteristics of a product or material have been determined
by testing and ongoing surveillance by an approved third-
party certification agency. Assertion of certification is in the
form of identification in accordance with the requirements of
the third-party certification agency.
THIRD-PARTY TESTED. Procedure by which an
approved testing laboratory provides documentation that a
product material or system conforms to specified require- I
ments. 1
TOWNHOUSE. A single-family dwelling unit constructed
in a group of three or more attached units in which each unit
extends from foundation to roof and with a yard or public
way on at least two sides.
TRAP. A fitting, either separate or built into a fixture, that
provides a liquid seal to prevent the emission of sewer gases
without materially affecting the flow of sewage or waste
water through it.
TRAP ARM. That portion of a fixture drain between a trap
weir and the vent fitting.
TRAP PRIMER. A device or system of piping to maintain a
water seal in a trap, typically installed where infrequent use
of the trap would result in evaporation of the trap seal, such as
floor drains.
TRAP SEAL. The trap seal is the maximum vertical depth of
liquid that a trap will retain, measured between the crown
weir and the top of the dip of the trap.
TRIM. Picture molds, chair rails, baseboards, handrails, door
and window frames, and similar decorative or protective
materials used in fixed applications.
TRUSS DESIGN DRAWING. The graphic depiction of an
individual truss, which describes the design and physical
characteristics of the truss.
TYPE L VENT. A listed and labeled vent conforming to UL
641 for venting oil-burning appliances listed for use with
Type L vents or with gas appliances listed for use with Type
B vents.
Z/-FACTOR, THERMAL TRANSMITTANCE. See Sec-
tion Nl 101.9 for definition applicable in Chapter 11.
UNDERLAYMENT. One or more layers of felt, sheathing
paper, nonbituminous saturated felt, or other approved mate-
rial over which a roof covering, with a slope of 2 to 12 (17-
percent slope) or greater, is applied.
VACUUM BREAKERS. A device which prevents back-
siphonage of water by admitting atmospheric pressure
through ports to the discharge side of the device.
VAPOR PERMEABLE. The property of having a moisture
vapor permeance rating of 5 perms (2.9 x 10" 10 kg/Pa • s • m 2 )
or greater, when tested in accordance with the desiccant
method using Procedure A of ASTM E 96. A vapor perme-
able material permits the passage of moisture vapor.
VAPOR RETARDER CLASS. A measure of the ability of a
material or assembly to limit the amount of moisture that
passes through that material or assembly. Vapor retarder class
shall be defined using the desiccant method with Procedure A
of ASTM E 96 as follows:
Class I: 0.1 perm or less
Class II: 0. 1 < perm < 1 .0 perm
Class III: 1 .0 < perm < 10 perm
VENT. A passageway for conveying flue gases from fuel-
fired appliances, or their vent connectors, to the outside
atmosphere.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
23
DEFINITIONS
VENT COLLAR. See "Flue collar."
VENT CONNECTOR. That portion of a venting system
which connects the flue collar or draft hood of an appliance
to a vent.
VENT DAMPER DEVICE, AUTOMATIC. A device
intended for installation in the venting system, in the outlet of
an individual, automatically operated fuel burning appliance
and that is designed to open the venting system automatically
when the appliance is in operation and to close off the vent-
ing system automatically when the appliance is in a standby
or shutdown condition.
VENT GASES. Products of combustion from fuel-burning
appliances, plus excess air and dilution air, in the venting
system above the draft hood or draft regulator.
VENT STACK. A vertical vent pipe installed to provide cir-
culation of air to and from the drainage system and which
extends through one or more stories.
VENT SYSTEM. Piping installed to equalize pneumatic
pressure in a drainage system to prevent trap seal loss or
blow-back due to siphonage or back pressure.
VENTILATION. The natural or mechanical process of sup-
plying conditioned or unconditioned air to, or removing such
air from, any space. For definition applicable in Chapter 11,
see Section Nil 01.9.
VENTING. Removal of combustion products to the out-
doors.
VENTING SYSTEM. A continuous open passageway from
the flue collar of an appliance to the outside atmosphere for
the purpose of removing flue or vent gases. A venting system
is usually composed of a vent or a chimney and vent connec-
tor, if used, assembled to form the open passageway.
VERTICAL PIPE. Any pipe or fitting that makes an angle
of 45 degrees (0.79 rad) or more with the horizontal.
VINYL SIDING. A shaped material, made principally from
rigid polyvinyl chloride (PVC), that is used to cover exterior
walls of buildings.
WALL, RETAINING. A wall not laterally supported at the
top, that resists lateral soil load and other imposed loads.
WALLS. Walls shall be defined as follows:
Load-bearing wall. A wall supporting any vertical load in
addition to its own weight.
Nonhealing wall. A wall which does not support vertical
loads other than its own weight.
WASTE. Liquid-borne waste that is free of fecal matter.
WASTE PIPE OR STACK. Piping that conveys only liquid
sewage not containing fecal material.
WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM. Piping which con-
veys water from the service to the plumbing fixtures, appli-
ances, appurtenances, equipment, devices or other systems
served, including fittings and control valves.
WATER HEATER. Any heating appliance or equipment
that heats potable water and supplies such water to the pota-
ble hot water distribution system.
WATER MAIN. A water supply pipe for public use.
WATER OUTLET. A valved discharge opening, including
a hose bibb, through which water is removed from the potable
water system supplying water to a plumbing fixture or
plumbing appliance that requires either an air gap or back-
flow prevention device for protection of the supply system.
WATER-RESISTIVE BARRIER. A material behind an
exterior wall covering that is intended to resist liquid water
that has penetrated behind the exterior covering from further
intruding into the exterior wall assembly.
WATER SERVICE PIPE. The outside pipe from the water
main or other source of potable water supply to the water dis-
tribution system inside the building, terminating at the service
valve.
WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM. The water service pipe, the
water-distributing pipes and the necessary connecting pipes,
fittings, control valves and all appurtenances in or adjacent to
the building or premises.
WET VENT. A vent that also receives the discharge of
wastes from other fixtures.
WHOLE-HOUSE MECHANICAL VENTILATION
SYSTEM. An exhaust system, supply system, or combina-
tion thereof that is designed to mechanically exchange indoor
air for outdoor air when operating continuously or through a
programmed intermittent schedule to satisfy the whole-house
ventilation rate. For definition applicable in Chapter 11, see
Section Nl 101.9.
WIND-BORNE DEBRIS REGION. Areas within hurri-
cane-prone regions as designated in accordance with Figure
R302.1(4)C.
WINDER. A tread with nonparallel edges.
WOOD/PLASTIC COMPOSITE. A composite material
made primarily from wood or cellulose-based materials and
plastic.
WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL. A panel manufactured
from veneers; or wood strands or wafers; bonded together
with waterproof synthetic resins or other suitable bonding
systems. Examples of wood structural panels are plywood,
OSB or composite panels.
YARD. An open space, other than a court, unobstructed from
the ground to the sky, except where specifically provided by
this code, on the lot on which a building is situated.
24
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
Part III— Building Planning and Construction
CHAPTER 3
SECTION R301
DESIGN CRITERIA
R301.1 Application. Buildings and structures, and all parts
thereof, shall be constructed to safely support all loads,
including dead loads, live loads, roof loads, flood loads, snow
loads, wind loads and seismic loads as prescribed by this
code. The construction of buildings and structures in accor-
dance with the provisions of this code shall result in a system
that provides a complete load path that meets all requirements
for the transfer of all loads from their point of origin through
the load-resisting elements to the foundation. Buildings and
structures constructed as prescribed by this code are deemed
to comply with the requirements of this section.
R301.1.1 Alternative provisions. As an alternative to the
requirements in Section R301.1 the following standards
are permitted subject to the limitations of this code and the
limitations therein. Where engineered design is used in
conjunction with these standards, the design shall comply
with the International Building Code.
1. AF&PA Wood Frame Construction Manual
(WFCM).
2. AISI Standard for Cold-Formed Steel Framing-
Prescriptive Method for One- and Two-Family
Dwellings (AISI S230).
3. ICC Standard on the Design and Construction of
Log Structures (ICC 400).
R301.1.2 Construction systems. The requirements of this
code are based on platform and balloon-frame construc-
tion for light-frame buildings. The requirements for con-
crete and masonry buildings are based on a balloon
framing system. Other framing systems must have equiva-
lent detailing to ensure force transfer, continuity and com-
patible deformations.
R301.1.3 Engineered design. When a building of other-
wise conventional construction contains structural ele-
ments exceeding the limits of Section R301 or otherwise
not conforming to this code, these elements shall be
designed in accordance with accepted engineering prac-
tice. The extent of such design need only demonstrate
compliance of nonconventional elements with other appli-
cable provisions and shall be compatible with the perfor-
mance of the conventional framed system. Engineered
design in accordance with the International Building Code
is permitted for all buildings and structures, and parts
thereof, included in the scope of this code.
R301.2 Climatic and geographic design criteria. Buildings
shall be constructed in accordance with the provisions of this
code as limited by the provisions of this section. Additional
criteria shall be established by the local jurisdiction and set
forth in Table R301 .2(1).
R301.2.1 Wind design criteria. Buildings and portions
thereof shall be constructed in accordance with the wind
provisions of this code using the basic wind speed in Table
R301.2(l) as determined from Figure R301.2(4)A. The
structural provisions of this code for wind loads are not
permitted where wind design is required as specified in
Section R301.2.1.1. Where different construction meth-
ods and structural materials are used for various portions
of a building, the applicable requirements of this section
for each portion shall apply. Where not otherwise speci-
fied, the wind loads listed in Table R301.2(2) adjusted for
height and exposure using Table R301.2(3) shall be used
to determine design load performance requirements for
wall coverings, curtain walls, roof coverings, exterior win-
dows, skylights, garage doors and exterior doors. Asphalt
shingles shall be designed for wind speeds in accordance
with Section R905.2.4. A continuous load path shall be
provided to transmit the applicable uplift forces in Section
R802.1 1.1 from the roof assembly to the foundation.
R301.2.1.1 Wind limitations and wind design
required. The wind provisions of this code shall not
apply to the design of buildings where wind design is
required in accordance with Figure R301.2(4)B or
where the basic wind speed from Figure R301.2(4)A
equals or exceeds 1 10 miles per hour (49 rah).
Exceptions:
1. For concrete construction, the wind provisions
of this code shall apply in accordance with the
limitations of Sections R404 and R61 1.
2. For structural insulated panels, the wind provi-
sions of this code shall apply in accordance
with the limitations of Section R613.
In regions where wind design is required in accor-
dance with Figure R301 .2(4)B or where the basic wind
speed shown on Figure R301.2(4)A equals or exceeds
1 1 miles per hour (49 m/s), the design of buildings for
wind loads shall be in accordance with one or more of
the following methods:
1. AF&PA Wood Frame Construction Manual
(WFCM); or
2. ICC Standard for Residential Construction in
High-Wind Regions (ICC 600); or
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
25
BUILDING PLANNING
3. ASCE Minimum. Design Loads for Buildings and
Other Structures (ASCE 7); or
4. AISI Standard for Cold-Formed Steel Framing —
Prescriptive Method For One- and Two-Family
Dwellings (AISI S230); or
5. International Building Code.
The elements of design not addressed by the meth-
ods in Items 1 through 5 shall be in accordance with the
provisions of this code. When ASCE 7 or the Interna-
tional Building Code is used for the design of the build-
ing, the wind speed map and exposure category
requirements as specified in ASCE 7 and the Interna-
tional Building Code shall be used.
R301.2.1.2 Protection of openings. Exterior glazing in
buildings located in windborne debris regions shall be
protected from windborne debris. Glazed opening pro-
tection for windborne debris shall meet the require-
ments of the Large Missile Test of ASTM E 1996 and
ASTM E 1886 referenced therein. The applicable wind
zones for establishing misile types in ASTM E 1 996 are
shown on Figure R301.2(4)C. Garage door glazed
opening protection for windborne debris shall meet the
requirements of an approved impact-resisting standard
orANSI/DASMA115.
Exception: Wood structural panels with a minimum
thickness of 7 / l6 inch (1 1 mm) and a maximum span
of 8 feet (2438 mm) shall be permitted for opening
protection in one- and two-story buildings. Panels
shall be precut and attached to the framing surround-
ing the opening containing the product with the
glazed opening. Panels shall be predrilled as
required for the anchorage method and shall be
secured with the attachment hardware provided.
Attachments shall be designed to resist the compo-
nent and cladding loads determined in accordance
with either Table R301.2(2) or ASCE 7, with the
permanent corrosion-resistant attachment hardware
provided and anchors permanently installed on the
building. Attachment in accordance with Table
R301.2.1.2 is permitted for buildings with a mean
roof height of 33 feet (10 058 mm) or less where
located in Wind Zones 1 and 2 in accordance with
Figure R301.2(4)C.
TABLE R301. 2(1)
CLIMATIC AND GEOGRAPHIC DESIGN CRITERIA
GROUND
SNOW
LOAD
WIND DESIGN
SEISMIC
DESIGN
CATEGORY'
SUBJECT TO DAMAGE FROM
WINTER
DESIGN
TEMP"
ICE BARRIER
UNDERLAYMENT
REQUIRED"
FLOOD
HAZARDS 3
AIR
FREEZING
INDEX 1
MEAN
ANNUAL
TEMP 1
Speed"
(mph)
Topographic
effects"
Weathering"
Frost line
depth"
Termite
For SI: 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, I mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. Weathering may require a higher strength concrete or grade of masonry than necessary to satisfy the structural requirements of this code. The weathering
column shall be filled in with the weathering index (i.e., "negligible," "moderate" or "severe") for concrete as determined from the Weathering Probability
Map [Figure R30 1 .2(3)]. The grade of masonry units shall be determined from ASTM C 34, C 55, C 62, C 73, C 90, C 1 29, C 145, C 21 6 or C 652.
b. The frost line depth may require deeper footings than indicated in Figure R403. 1 ( I ). The jurisdiction shall fill in the frost line depth column with the minimum
depth of footing below finish grade.
c. The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table to indicate the need for protection depending on whether there has been a history of local subterranean termite
damage.
d. The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with the wind speed from the basic wind speed map [Figure R301.2(4)A]. Wind exposure category shall be
determined on a site-specific basis in accordance with Section R301 .2. 1 .4.
e. The outdoor design dry-bulb temperature shall be selected from the columns of 97 7,-percent values for winter from Appendix D of the International Plumbing
Code. Deviations from the Appendix D temperatures shall be permitted to reflect local climates or local weather experience as determined by the building
official.
f. The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with the seismic design category determined from Section R301.2.2.1.
g. The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with (a) the date of the jurisdiction's entry into the National Flood Insurance Program (date of adoption of the
first code or ordinance for management of flood hazard areas), (b) the date(s) of the Flood Insurance Study and (c) the panel numbers and dates of all currently
effective FIRMs and FBFMs or other flood hazard map adopted by the authority having jurisdiction, as amended.
h. In accordance with Sections R905.2.7.1 , R905.4.3.1, R905.5.3.1 , R905.6.3. 1 , R905.7.3. 1 and R905.8.3. 1 , where there has been a history of local damage from
the effects of ice damming, the jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with "YES." Otherwise, the jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with "NO."
i. The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with the 100-year return period air freezing index (BF-days) from Figure R403.3(2) or from the 1 00-year (99
percent) value on the National Climatic Data Center data table "Air Freezing Index-USA Method (Base 32°F)" at www.ncdc.noaa.gov/fpsf.html.
j. The jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with the mean annual temperature from the National Climatic Data Center data table "Air Freezing Index-
USA Method (Base 32°F)" at www.ncdcnoaa.gov/fpsf.html.
k. In accordance with Section R301. 2.1.5, where there is local historical data documenting structural damage to buildings due to topographic wind speed-up
effects, the jurisdiction shall fill in this part of the table with "YES." Otherwise, the jurisdiction shall indicate "NO" in this part of the table.
26
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE*
BUILDING PLANNING
TABLE R301. 2(2)
COMPONENT AND CLADDING LOADS FOR A BUILDING WITH A MEAN
ROOF HEIGHT OF 30 FEET LOCATED IN EXPOSURE B (psf) ab cd s
ZONE
EFFECTIVE
WIND
AREA
(feet 2 )
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph-3-second gust)
85
90
100
105
110
120
125
130
140
145
150
170
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10.8
-13.0
12.1
-14.6
14,9
-18.0
16.5
-19.8
18.1
-21.8
21.5
-25.9
23.3
-28.1
25.2
-30.4
29.3
-35.3
31.4
-37.8
33.6
-40.5
43.2
-52.0
3
10
11.9
-15.2
13.3
-17.0
16.5
-2 1 .0
18.2
-23.2
19.9
-25.5
23.7
-30.3
25.7
-32.9
27.8
-35.6
32.3
-41.2
34.6
-44.2
37.0
-47.3
47.6
-60.8
3
20
11.6
-14.5
13.0
-16.3
16.0
-20.1
17.6
-22.2
19.4
-24.3
23.0
-29.0
25.0
-31.4
27.0
-34.0
31.4
-39.4
33.7
-42.3
36.0
-45.3
46.3
-58.1
3
50
II. 1
-13.7
12.5
-15.3
15.4
-18.9
17.0
-20.8
18.6
-22.9
22.2
-27.2
24.1
-29.5
26.0
-32.0
30.2
-37.1
32.4
-39.8
34.6
-42.5
44.5
-54.5
3
100
10.8
-13.0
12.1
-14.6
14.9
-18.0
16.5
-19.8
18.1
-21.8
21.5
-25.9
23.3
-28.1
25.2
-30.4
29.3
-35.3
31.4
-37.8
33.6
-40.5
43.2
-52.0
4
10
13.0
-14.1
14.6
-15.8
18.0
-19.5
19.8
-21.5
21.8
-23.6
25.9
-28.1
28.1
-30.5
30.4
-33.0
35.3
-38.2
37.8
-41.0
40.5
-43.9
52.0
-56.4
4
20
12.4
-13.5
13.9
-15.1
17.2
-18.7
18.9
-20.6
20.8
-22.6
24.7
-26.9
26.8
-29.2
29.0
-31.6
33.7
-36.7
36.1
-39.3
38.7
-42.1
49.6
-54.1
4
50
11.6
-12.7
13.0
-14.3
16.1
-17.6
17.8
-19.4
19.5
-21.3
23.2
-25.4
25.2
-27.5
27.2
-29.8
31.6
-34.6
33.9
-37.1
36.2
-39.7
46.6
-51.0
4
100
11.1
-12.2
12.4
-13.6
15.3
-16,8
16.9
-18.5
18.5
-20.4
22.0
-24.2
23.9
-26.3
25.9
-28.4
30.0
-33.0
32.2
-35.4
34.4
-37.8
44.2
-48.6
5
10
13.0
-17.4
14.6
-19.5
18.0
-24.1
19.8
-26.6
21.8
-29.1
25.9
-34.7
28.1
-37.6
30.4
-40.7
35.3
-47.2
37.8
-50.6
40.5
-54.2
52.0
-69.6
5
20
12.4
-16.2
13.9
-18.2
17.2
-22.5
18.9
-24.8
20.8
-27.2
24.7
-32.4
26.8
-35.1
29.0
-38.0
33.7
-44.0
36.1
-47.2
38.7
-50.5
49.6
-64.9
5
50
11.6
-14.7
13.0
-16.5
16.1
-20.3
17.8
-22.4
19.5
-24.6
23.2
-29.3
25.2
-31.8
27.2
-34.3
31.6
-39.8
33.9
-42.7
36.2
-45.7
46.6
-58.7
5
100
11.1
-13.5
12.4
-15.1
15.3
-18.7
16.9
-20.6
18.5
-22.6
22.0
-26.9
23.9
-29.2
25.9 1 -3 1.6
30.0
-36.7
32.2
-39.3
34.4
-42.1
44.2
-54.1
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m 2 , 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s. 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. The effective wind area shall be equal to the span length multiplied by an effective width. This width shall be permitted to be not be less than one-third the
span length. For cladding fasteners, the effective wind area shall not be greater than the area that is tributary to an individual fastener.
b. For effective areas between those given above, the load may be interpolated: otherwise, use the load associated with the lower effective area.
c. Table values shall be adjusted for height and exposure by multiplying by the adjustment coefficient in Table R30I .2(3).
d. See Figure R301 .2(7) for location of zones.
e. Plus and minus signs signify pressures acting toward and away from the building surfaces.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
27
BUILDING PLANNING
TABLE R301 .2(3)
HEIGHT AND EXPOSURE ADJUSTMENT COEFFICIENTS FOR TABLE R301.2(2)
MEAN ROOF HEIGHT
EXPOSURE
B
c
D
15
1.00
1.21
1.47
20
1.00
1.29
1.55
25
1.00
1.35
1.61
30
1.00
1.40
1.66
35
1.05
1.45
1.70
40
1.09
1.49
1.74
45
1.12
1.53
1.78
50
1.16
1.56
1.81
55
1.19
1.59
1.84
60
1.22
1.62
1.87
20 10
DESIGN TEMPERATURES IN THIS AREA MUST BE BASED ON
ANALYSIS OF LOCAL CLIMATE AND TOPOGRAPHY
For SI: °C = [(°F)-32]/1.8.
FIGURE R301.2(1)
ISOLINES OF THE 977 2 PERCENT WINTER (DECEMBER, JANUARY AND FEBRUARY) DESIGN TEMPERATURES (°F)
28
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REFERENCES
Buikimg Seismic SaFety Council. 2009. NEHRPRe-cemrrciiikd iiiu fegulaliiins for
Ncv/ Buikiui«s and Oriii.-rSlnn.iurm: ITMA P7.W2009 frliiinn, feici:!? Emergenc)' Managsnienl
Agency, Washington, DC.
Huan^ Yin-Nan, Whittaker, AS., and Luco, Nicolas, 200S, Maximum spectraJ demands in rhe near-fault
re#on,Eartlxju^SprctraVolmne24, bsus], pp. 319-341.
Lucy, Nicolas, EiJingwood, B.R., Hamburg RO,, Hooper, J.D., Kimball, J.K., and Kiicher, C A, 3)07,
Risk-Targeted versus CunenlSewraic l^gnAlar« for to Conterminous Uailed Slats, Structural
Engineers Association of California 2007 Convention Proceedings, pp. 1 63-1 75.
Petersen, MB, Feinted, AD., Harmsen, S.C, Mueller, CS., Mailer, K.M., Wheeler, R.L., Wesson. R.L,
Zeng, Yuehua, Boyd, O.S.. Pteridns, D.M., l.uca Nicolas, Field, EH., Wills, C.J., and
Riikstales. K.S., 2008. IXvunKntatai forthe 2003 Upfeis of (he S 'nited Stales National Seismic
Ha73iicfM.apK U.lGet)iogiral Survey Oj-»n-FilcRcportaM8-l 128, 61 p,
Map prepared by U.S. Geological Survey in collaboration with the Federal Emergency Management
Ags^ (I^MAKure^ Building Sii™^^
CommilEee(CR3C).
.
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105°
FIGURE R301. 2(2)— continued
SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORIES— SITE CLASS D
32
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 63
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SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORIES— SITE CLASS D
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE"
33
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE*
37
BUILDING PLANNING
FIGURE R301.2(5)
GROUND SNOW LOADS, P g , FOR THE UNITED STATES (lb/ft 2 )
(continued)
38
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
BUILDING PLANNING
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
FIGURE R301. 2(5)— continued
GROUND SNOW LOADS, P g , FOR THE UNITED STATES (lb/ft 2 )
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
39
BUILDING PLANNING
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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WALLS
®L®-|— ®-^.
*
®> ®
GABLE ROOFS
0< 10°
0< 10°
GABLE ROOFS
10°<0<45°
HIP ROOFS
10° < < 30°
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 degree
Note: a = 4 feet in all cases.
= 0.0175 rad.
FIGURE R301 .2(7)
COMPONENT AND CLADDING PRESSURE ZONES
TABLE R301 .2.1.2
WINDBORNE DEBRIS PROTECTION FASTENING
SCHEDULE FOR WOOD STRUCTURAL PANELS"' bcd
FASTENER SPACING (inches) 8 b
FASTENER TYPE
Panel
span <
4 feet
4 feet <
panel span
< 6 feet
6 feet <
panel span
< 8 feet
No. 8 wood screw based
anchor with 2-inch embedment
length
16
10
8
No. 10 wood screw based
anchor with 2-inch embedment
length
16
12
9
7 4 -inch lag screw based anchor
with 2-inch embedment length
16
16
16
= 4.448 N,
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound :
1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. This table is based on 130 mph wind speeds and a 33-foot mean roof
height.
b. Fasteners shall be installed at opposing ends of the wood structural panel.
Fasteners shall be located a minimum of 1 inch from die edge of the panel.
c. Anchors shall penetrate through the exterior wall covering with an
embedment length of 2 inches minimum into the building frame.
Fasteners shall be located a minimum of 2'/ 2 inches from the edge of
concrete block or concrete.
d. Where panels are attached to masonry or masonry/stucco, they shall be
attached using vibration-resistant anchors having a minimum ultimate
withdrawal capacity of 1500 pounds.
R301.2.1.3 Wind speed conversion. When referenced
documents are based on fastest mile wind speeds, the
three-second gust basic wind speeds, V 3s , of Figure
R301.2(4) shall be converted to fastest mile wind
speeds, V fm , using Table R301.2.1.3.
R301.2.1.4 Exposure category. For each wind direc-
tion considered, an exposure category that adequately
reflects the characteristics of ground surface irregulari-
ties shall be determined for the site at which the build-
ing or structure is to be constructed. For a site located
in the transition zone between categories, the category
resulting in the largest wind forces shall apply. Account
shall be taken of variations in ground surface roughness
that arise from natural topography and vegetation as
well as from constructed features. For a site where mul-
tiple detached one- and two-family dwellings, town-
houses or other structures are to be constructed as part
of a subdivision, master-planned community, or other-
wise designated as a developed area by the authority
having jurisdiction, the exposure category for an indi-
vidual structure shall be based upon the site conditions
that will exist at the time when all adjacent structures
on the site have been constructed, provided their con-
struction is expected to begin within one year of the
start of construction for the structure for which the
TABLE R301.2.1.3
EQUIVALENT BASIC WIND SPEEDS
3-second gust, V,,
85
90
100
105
110
120
125
130
140
145
150
160
170
Fastest mile, V fm
71
76
85
90
95
104
109
114
123
128
133
142
152
For SI: 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. Linear interpolation is permitted.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE"
41
BUILDING PLANNING
exposure category is determined. For any given wind
direction, the exposure in which a specific building or
other structure is sited shall be assessed as being one of
the following categories:
1. Exposure A. Large city centers with at least 50
percent of the buildings having a height in excess
of 70 feet (21 336 mm). Use of this exposure cat-
egory shall be limited to those areas for which
terrain representative of Exposure A prevails in
the upwind direction for a distance of at least 0.5
mile (0.8 km) or 10 times the height of the build-
ing or other structure, whichever is greater. Possi-
ble channeling effects or increased velocity
pressures due to the building or structure being
located in the wake of adjacent buildings shall be
taken into account.
2. Exposure B. Urban and suburban areas, wooded
areas, or other terrain with numerous closely
spaced obstructions having the size of single-
family dwellings or larger. Exposure B shall be
assumed unless the site meets the definition of
another type exposure.
3. Exposure C. Open terrain with scattered obstruc-
tions, including surface undulations or other
irregularities, having heights generally less than
30 feet (9144 mm) extending more than 1,500
feet (457 m) from the building site in any quad-
rant. This exposure shall also apply to any build-
ing located within Exposure B type terrain where
the building is directly adjacent to open areas of
Exposure C type terrain in any quadrant for a dis-
tance of more than 600 feet (183 m). This cate-
gory includes flat, open country and grasslands.
4. Exposure D. Flat, unobstructed areas exposed to
wind flowing over open water for a distance of at
least 1 mile (1.61 km). Shorelines in Exposure D
include inland waterways, the Great Lakes, and
coastal areas of California, Oregon, Washington
and Alaska. This exposure shall apply only to
those buildings and other structures exposed to
the wind coming from over the water. Exposure
D extends inland from the shoreline a distance of
1500 feet (457 m) or 10 times the height of the
building or structure, whichever is greater.
BASIC WIND SPEED
FROM FIGURE
B301.2(4)(mph)
85
90
100
(10
120
130
TABLE R301. 2.1. 5.1
BASIC WIND [MODIFICATION FOR TOPOGRAPHIC WIND EFFECT
R301.2.1.5 Topographic wind effects. In areas desig-
nated in Table R30 1.2(1) as having local historical data
documenting structural damage to buildings caused by
wind speed-up at isolated hills, ridges and escarpments
that are abrupt changes from the general topography of
the area, topographic wind effects shall be considered
in the design of the building in accordance with Section
R301.2.1.5.1 or in accordance with the provisions of
ASCE 7. See Figure R301. 2.1.5.1(1) for topographic
features for wind speed-up effect.
In these designated areas, topographic wind effects
shall apply only to buildings sited on the top half of an
isolated hill, ridge or escarpment where all of the fol-
lowing conditions exist:
1 . The average slope of the top half of the hill, ridge
or escarpment is 10 percent or greater.
2. The hill, ridge or escarpment is 60 feet (18 288
mm) or greater in height for Exposure B, 30 feet
(9144 mm) or greater in height for Exposure C,
and 15 feet (4572 mm) or greater in height for
Exposure D.
3. The hill, ridge or escarpment is isolated or unob-
structed by other topographic features of similar
height in the upwind direction for a distance mea-
sured from its high point of 100 times its height
or 2 miles, whichever is less. See Figure
R301.2.1.5.1(3) for upwind obstruction.
4. The hill, ridge or escarpment protrudes by a fac-
tor of two or more above the height of other
upwind topographic features located in any quad-
rant within a radius of 2 miles measured from its
high point.
R301.2.1.5.1 Simplified topographic wind speed-
up method. As an alternative to the ASCE 7 topo-
graphic wind provisions, the provisions of Section
R301. 2.1.5.1 shall be permitted to be used to design
for wind speed-up effects, where required by Sec-
tion R301.2.1. 5.
Structures located on the top half of isolated
hills, ridges or escarpments meeting the conditions
of Section R301.2.1.5 shall be designed for an
increased basic wind speed as determined by Table
R30 1.2. 1.5.1. On the high side of an escarpment, the
increased basic wind speed shall extend horizontally
downwind from the edge of the escarpment 1.5
0.10
AVERAGE SLOPE OF THE TOP HALF OF HILL, RIDGE OR ESCARPMENT (percent)
0.125
0.15
0.175
0.20
0.23
100
100
110
120
140
150
For SI: 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
Required basic wind speed-up, modified for topographic wind speed up (mph)
0.25 or greater
100
100
120
130
140
N/A
100
110
120
130
150
N/A
110
110
130
140
150
N/A
110
120
130
140
N/A
N/A
110
120
130
150
N/A
N/A
120
120
140
150
N/A
N/A
42
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
BUILDING PLANNING
times the horizontal length of the upwind slope
(1.5L) or 6 times the height of the escarpment (6H),
whichever is greater. See Figure R30 1.2. 1.5. 1(2) for
where wind speed increase is applied.
R301.2.2 Seismic provisions. The seismic provisions of
this code shall apply as follows:
1. Townhouses in Seismic Design Categories C, D , D,
and D 2 .
2. Detached one- and two-family dwellings in Seismic
Design Categories, D , D, and D 2 .
R301.2.2.1 Determination of seismic design cate-
gory. Buildings shall be assigned a seismic design cate-
gory in accordance with Figure R301.2(2).
R301.2.2.1.1 Alternate determination of seismic
design category. The seismic design categories and
corresponding short period design spectral response
ESCARPMENT
RIDGE OR HILL
Note: H/2 determines the measurement point for Lh. L is twice Lh.
FIGURE R301. 2.1. 5.1(1)
TOPOGRAPHIC FEATURES FOR WIND SPEED-UP EFFECT
APPLY INCREASED
WIND SPEED TO
TOP HALF OF HILL OR
RIDGE
-§Sj
GREATER OF 1.5L OR 6H
v %
HILL OR RIDGE
ESCARPEMNT
FIGURE R301. 2.1. 5.1(2)
ILLUSTRATION OF WHERE ON A TOPOGRAPHIC FEATURE, WIND SPEED INCREASE IS APPLIED
«-
CHECK FOR OBSTRUCTION PER R301 .2.1 .5
IF DISTANCE IS LESS THAN 100 H, OR 2
MILES
UPWIND TOPOGRAPHIC
FEATURE
ESCARPMENT
RIDGE OR HILL
FIGURE R301 .2.1.5.1(3)
UPWIND OBSTRUCTION
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
43
BUILDING PLANNING
accelerations, S DS shown in Figure R30 1.2(2) are
based on soil Site Class D, as defined in Section
1613.5.2 of the International Building Code. If soil
conditions are other than Site Class D, the short
period design spectral response accelerations, S DS ,
for a site can be determined according to Section
1613.5 of the International Building Code. The
value of S DS determined according to Section 1613.5
of the International Building Code is permitted to be
used to set the seismic design category according to
Table R301.2.2. 1.1, and to interpolate between val-
ues in Tables R602.10.1.2(2), R603.9.2(l) and other
seismic design requirements of this code.
TABLE R301 .2.2.1.1
SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY DETERMINATION
CALCULATED S DS
SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY
S M <0.17g
A
0.17g<5 ns <0.33g
B
0.33g < S DS < 0.50g
C
0.50g<S DJ .<0.67g
D„
0.67g<S as <0.83g
D,
0.83g<S m <l.l7g
D 2
1.17g<S 0S
E
R301.2.2.1.2 Alternative determination of Seis-
mic Design Category E. Buildings located in Seis-
mic Design Category E in accordance with Figure
R301.2(2) are permitted to be reclassified as being
in Seismic Design Category D, provided one of the
following is done:
1. A more detailed evaluation of the seismic
design category is made in accordance with
the provisions and maps of the International
Building Code. Buildings located in Seismic
Design Category E per Table R301.2.2.1.1,
but located in Seismic Design Category D per
the International Building Code, may be
designed using the Seismic Design Category
D 2 requirements of this code.
2. Buildings located in Seismic Design Category
E that conform to the following additional
restrictions are permitted to be constructed in
accordance with the provisions for Seismic
Design Category D, of this code:
2. 1 . All exterior shear wall lines or braced
wall panels are in one plane vertically
from the foundation to the uppermost
story.
2.2. Floors shall not cantilever past the
exterior walls.
2.3. The building is within all of the
requirements of Section R301. 2.2.2.5
for being considered as regular.
R301.2.2.2 Seismic Design Category C. Structures
assigned to Seismic Design Category C shall conform
to the requirements of this section.
R301.2.2.2.1 Weights of materials. Average dead
loads shall not exceed 15 pounds per square foot
(720 Pa) for the combined roof and ceiling assem-
blies (on a horizontal projection) or 10 pounds per
square foot (480 Pa) for floor assemblies, except as
further limited by Section R301.2.2. Dead loads for
walls above grade shall not exceed:
1. Fifteen pounds per square foot (720 Pa) for
exterior light-frame wood walls.
2. Fourteen pounds per square foot (670 Pa) for
exterior light-frame cold-formed steel walls.
3. Ten pounds per square foot (480 Pa) for inte-
rior light-frame wood walls.
4. Five pounds per square foot (240 Pa) for inte-
rior light-frame cold-formed steel walls.
5. Eighty pounds per square foot (3830 Pa) for 8-
inch-thick (203 mm) masonry walls.
6. Eighty-five pounds per square foot (4070 Pa)
for 6-inch-thick (152 mm) concrete walls.
7. Ten pounds per square foot (480 Pa) for SIP
walls.
Exceptions:
1. Roof and ceiling dead loads not exceeding
25 pounds per square foot (1 190 Pa) shall
be permitted provided the wall bracing
amounts in Chapter 6 are increased in
accordance with Table R301.2.2.2.1.
2. Light-frame walls with stone or masonry
veneer shall be permitted in accordance
with the provisions of Sections R702.1 and
R703.
3. Fireplaces and chimneys shall be permitted
in accordance with Chapter 10.
TABLE R301 .2.2.2.1
WALL BRACING ADJUSTMENT FACTORS BY
ROOF COVERING DEAD LOAD a
WALL SUPPORTING
ROOF/CEILING DEAD LOAD
15 psf or less
25 psf
Roof only
1.0
1.2
Roof plus one or two stories
1.0
1.1
For SI: 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Linear interpolation shall be permitted.
44
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
BUILDING PLANNING
R30 1.2.2.2. 2 Stone and masonry veneer.
Anchored stone and masonry veneer shall comply
with the requirements of Sections R702.1 and R703.
R30 1.2.2.2.3 Masonry construction. Masonry con-
struction shall comply with the requirements of Sec-
tion R606. 12.
R301.2.2.2.4 Concrete construction. Detached
one- and two-family dwellings with exterior above-
grade concrete walls shall comply with the require-
ments of Section R611, PCA 100 or shall be
designed in accordance with ACI 318. Townhouses
with above-grade exterior concrete walls shall com-
ply with the requirements of PCA 100 or shall be
designed in accordance with ACI 318.
R301.2.2.2.5 Irregular buildings. The seismic pro-
visions of this code shall not be used for irregular
structures located in Seismic Design Categories C,
D , D, and D 2 . Irregular portions of structures shall
be designed in accordance with accepted engineer-
ing practice to the extent the irregular features affect
the performance of the remaining structural system.
When the forces associated with the irregularity are
resisted by a structural system designed in accor-
dance with accepted engineering practice, design of
the remainder of the building shall be permitted
using the provisions of this code. A building or por-
tion of a building shall be considered to be irregular
when one or more of the following conditions
occur:
1. When exterior shear wall lines or braced wall
panels are not in one plane vertically from the
foundation to the uppermost story in which
they are required.
Exception: For wood light-frame construc-
tion, floors with cantilevers or setbacks not
exceeding four times the nominal depth of
the wood floor joists are permitted to sup-
port braced wall panels that are out of
plane with braced wall panels below pro-
vided that:
1. Floor joists are nominal 2 inches by
10 inches (51 mm by 254 mm) or
larger and spaced not more than 16
inches (406 mm) on center.
2. The ratio of the back span to
cantilever is at least 2 to 1 .
the
3. Floor joists at ends of braced wall
panels are doubled.
4. For wood-frame construction, a
continuous rim joist is connected to
ends of all cantilever joists. When
spliced, the rim joists shall be spliced
using a galvanized metal tie not less
than 0.058 inch (1.5 mm) (16 gage)
and 1 7 2 inches (38 mm) wide
fastened with six 16d nails on each
side of the splice or a block of the
same size as the rim joist of sufficient
length to fit securely between the
joist space at which the splice occurs
fastened with eight 16d nails on each
side of the splice; and
5. Gravity loads carried at the end of
cantilevered joists are limited to
uniform wall and roof loads and the
reactions from headers having a span
of 8 feet (2438 mm) or less.
When a section of floor or roof is not laterally
supported by shear walls or braced wall lines
on all edges.
Exception: Portions of floors that do not
support shear walls or braced wall panels
above, or roofs, shall be permitted to
extend no more than 6 feet (1829 mm)
beyond a shear wall or braced wall line.
When the end of a braced wall panel occurs
over an opening in the wall below and ends at
a horizontal distance greater than 1 foot (305
mm) from the edge of the opening. This provi-
sion is applicable to shear walls and braced
wall panels offset in plane and to braced wall
panels offset out of plane as permitted by the
exception to Item 1 above.
Exception: For wood light-frame wall con-
struction, one end of a braced wall panel
shall be permitted to extend more than 1
foot (305 mm) over an opening not more
than 8 feet (2438 mm) wide in the wall
below provided that the opening includes a
header in accordance with the following:
1. The building width, loading condition
and framing member species
limitations of Table R502.5(l) shall
apply; and
2. Not less than one 2 x 12 or two 2 x
10 for an opening not more than 4
feet (1219 mm) wide; or
3. Not less than two 2 x 12 or three 2 x
10 for an opening not more than 6
feet (1829 mm) wide; or
4. Not less than three 2 x 12 or four 2 x
10 for an opening not more than 8
feet (2438 mm) wide; and
5. The entire length of the braced wall
panel does not occur over an opening
in the wall below.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
45
BUILDING PLANNING
4. When an opening in a floor or roof exceeds
the lesser of 12 feet (3658 mm) or 50 percent
of the least floor or roof dimension.
5. When portions of a floor level are vertically
offset.
Exceptions:
1. Framing
supported directly by
continuous foundations at the
perimeter of the building.
2. For wood light-frame construction,
floors shall be permitted to be
vertically offset when the floor
framing is lapped or tied together as
required by Section R502.6.1.
6. When shear walls and braced wall lines do not
occur in two perpendicular directions.
7. When stories above grade plane partially or
completely braced by wood wall framing in
accordance with Section R602 or steel wall
framing in accordance with Section R603
include masonry or concrete construction.
Exception: Fireplaces, chimneys and
masonry veneer as permitted by this code.
When this irregularity applies, the entire
story shall be designed in accordance with
accepted engineering practice.
R301.2.2.3 Seismic Design Categories D , D t and D 2 .
Structures assigned to Seismic Design Categories D ,
D, and D 2 shall conform to the requirements for Seis-
mic Design Category C and the additional requirements
of this section.
R301.2.2.3.1 Height limitations. Wood-framed
buildings shall be limited to three stories above
grade plane or the limits given in Table
R602. 10.3(3). Cold-formed, steel-framed buildings
shall be limited to less than or equal to three stories
above grade plane in accordance with AISI S230.
Mezzanines as defined in Section R202 shall not be
considered as stories. Structural insulated panel
buildings shall be limited to two stories above grade
plane.
R301.2.2.3.2 Stone and masonry veneer.
Anchored stone and masonry veneer shall comply
with the requirements of Sections R702.1 and R703.
R301.2.2.3.3 Masonry construction. Masonry con-
struction in Seismic Design Categories D and D,
shall comply with the requirements of Section
R606.12.1. Masonry construction in Seismic Design
Category D 2 shall comply with the requirements of
Section R606. 12.4.
R301.2.2.3.4 Concrete construction. Buildings
with exterior above-grade concrete walls shall com-
ply with PC A 100 or shall be designed in accor-
dance with ACI 318.
R301.2.2.3.5 Cold-formed steel framing in Seis-
mic Design Categories D , D, and D 2 . In Seismic
Design Categories D , D, and D 2 in addition to the
requirements of this code, cold-formed steel framing
shall comply with the requirements of AISI S230.
R301.2.2.3.6 Masonry chimneys. Masonry chim-
neys shall be reinforced and anchored to the build-
ing in accordance with Sections R 1003. 3 and
R1003.4.
R301.2.2.3.7 Anchorage of water heaters. Water
heaters shall be anchored against movement and
overturning in accordance with Section Ml 307.2.
R301.2.2.4 Seismic Design Category E. Buildings in
Seismic Design Category E shall be designed to resist
seismic loads in accordance with the International
Building Code, except when the seismic design cate-
gory is reclassified to a lower seismic design category
in accordance with Section R301. 2.2.1. Components of
buildings not required to be designed to resist seismic
loads shall be constructed in accordance with the provi-
sions of this code.
R301.2.3 Snow loads. Wood-framed construction, cold-
formed, steel-framed construction and masonry and con-
crete construction, and structural insulated panel construc-
tion in regions with ground snow loads 70 pounds per
square foot (3.35 kPa) or less, shall be in accordance with
Chapters 5, 6 and 8. Buildings in regions with ground
snow loads greater than 70 pounds per square foot (3.35
kPa) shall be designed in accordance with accepted engi-
neering practice.
R301.2.4 Floodplain construction. Buildings and struc-
tures constructed in whole or in part in flood hazard areas
(including A or V Zones) as established in Table
R301.2(l) shall be designed and constructed in accordance
with Section R322. Buildings and structures located in
whole or in part in identified floodways shall be designed
and constructed in accordance with ASCE 24.
R301.2.4.1 Alternative provisions. As an alternative
to the requirements in Section R322.3 for buildings and
structures located in whole or in part in coastal high-
hazard areas (V Zones) and coastal A Zones, if delin-
eated, ASCE 24 is permitted subject to the limitations
of this code and the limitations therein.
R301.3 Story height. The wind and seismic provisions of
this code shall apply to buildings with story heights not
exceeding the following:
1. For wood wall framing, the laterally unsupported bear-
ing wall stud height permitted by Table R602.3(5) plus
a height of floor framing not to exceed 16 inches (406
mm).
Exception: For wood-framed wall buildings with
bracing in accordance with Tables R602. 10.3(1) and
R602. 10.3(3), the wall stud clear height used to
determine the maximum permitted story height may
be increased to 12 feet (3658 mm) without requiring
an engineered design for the building wind and seis-
mic force-resisting systems provided that the length
46
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
BUILDING PLANNING
of bracing required by Table R602. 10.3(1) is
increased by multiplying by a factor of 1.10 and the
length of bracing required by Table R602. 10.3(3) is
increased by multiplying by a factor of 1.20. Wall
studs are still subject to the requirements of this sec-
tion.
2. For steel wall framing, a stud height of 10 feet (3048
mm), plus a height of floor framing not to exceed 16
inches (406 mm).
3. For masonry walls, a maximum bearing wall clear
height of 1 2 feet (3658 mm) plus a height of floor fram-
ing not to exceed 16 inches (406 mm).
Exception: An additional 8 feet (2438 mm) is per-
mitted for gable end walls.
4. For insulating concrete form walls, the maximum bear-
ing wall height per story as permitted by Section R611
tables plus a height of floor framing not to exceed 16
inches (406 mm).
5. For structural insulated panel (SIP) walls, the maxi-
mum bearing wall height per story as permitted by Sec-
tion R613 tables shall not exceed 10 feet (3048 mm)
plus a height of floor framing not to exceed 16 inches
(406 mm).
Individual walls or walls studs shall be permitted to
exceed these limits as permitted by Chapter 6 provisions, pro-
vided story heights are not exceeded. Floor framing height
shall be permitted to exceed these limits provided the story
height does not exceed 1 1 feet 7 inches (3531 mm). An engi-
neered design shall be provided for the wall or wall framing
members when they exceed the limits of Chapter 6. Where
the story height limits of this section are exceeded, the design
of the building, or the noncompliant portions thereof, to resist
wind and seismic loads shall be in accordance with the Inter-
national Building Code.
R301.4 Dead load. The actual weights of materials and con-
struction shall be used for determining dead load with consid-
eration for the dead load of fixed service equipment.
R301.5 Live load. The minimum uniformly distributed live
load shall be as provided in Table R301.5.
R301.6 Moof load. The roof shall be designed for the live
load indicated in Table R301.6 or the snow load indicated in
Table R301.2(l), whichever is greater.
TABLER301.6
MINIMUM ROOF LIVE LOADS IN POUNDS-FORCE PER SQUARE
FOOT OF HORIZONTAL PROJECTION
TABLER301.5
MINIMUM UNIFORMLY DISTRIBUTED LIVE LOADS
(in pounds per square foot)
ROOF SLOPE
TRIBUTARY LOADED AREA IN
SQUARE FEET FOR ANY
STRUCTURAL MEMBER
to 200
201 to 600
Over 600
Flat or rise less than 4 inches per
foot (1:3)
20
16
12
Rise 4 inches per foot (1:3) to
less than 12 inches per foot (1:1)
16
14
12
Rise 12 inches per foot (1:1)
and greater
12
12
12
USE
LIVE LOAD
Uninhabitable attics without storage b
10
Uninhabitable attics with limited storage bl 8
20
Habitable attics and attics served with fixed stairs
30
Balconies (exterior) and decks 6
40
Fire escapes
40
Guardrails and handrails' 1
200 h
Guardrail in-fill components'
50 h
Passenger vehicle garages"
50 a
Rooms other than sleeping room
40
Sleeping rooms
30
Stairs
40'
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m 2 , 1 pound per square foot
1 inch per foot = 83.3 mm/m.
= 0.0479 kPa,
For SI: 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 square inch = 645 mm 2 ,
1 pound = 4.45 N.
a. Elevated garage floors shall be capable of supporting a 2,000-pound load
applied over a 20-square-inch area.
b. Uninhabitable attics without storage are those where the maximum clear
height between joists and rafters is less than 42 inches, or where there are
not two or more adjacent trusses with web configurations capable of
accommodating an assumed rectangle 42 inches high by 24 inches in
width, or greater, within the plane of the trusses. This live load need not be
assumed to act concurrently with any other live load requirements.
c. Individual stair treads shall be designed for the uniformly distributed live
load or a 300-pound concentrated load acting over an area of 4 square
inches, whichever produces the greater stresses.
d. A single concentrated load applied in any direction at any point along the
top.
e. See Section R502.2.2 for decks attached to exterior walls.
f. Guard in-fill components (all those except the handrail), balusters and
panel fillers shall be designed to withstand a horizontally applied normal
load of 50 pounds on an area equal to 1 square foot. This load need not be
assumed to act concurrently with any other live load requirement.
g. Uninhabitable attics with limited storage are those where the maximum
clear height between joists and rafters is 42 inches or greater, or where
there are two or more adjacent trusses with web configurations capable of
accommodating an assumed rectangle 42 inches in height by 24 inches in
width, or greater, within the plane of the trusses.
The live load need only be applied to those portions of the joists or trass
bottom chords where all of the following conditions are met:
1 . The attic area is accessible from an opening not less than 20 inches in
width by 30 inches in length that is located where the clear height in
the attic is a minimum of 30 inches.
2. The slopes of the joists or truss bottom chords are no greater than 2
inches vertical to 12 units horizontal.
3. Required insulation depth is less than the joist or truss bottom chord
member depth.
The remaining portions of the joists or truss bottom chords shall be
designed for a uniformly distributed concurrent live load of not less than
10 lb/ft 2 ,
h. Glazing used in handrail assemblies and guards shall be designed with a
safety factor of 4. The safety factor shall be applied to each of the
concentrated loads applied to the top of the rail, and to the load on the in-
fill components. These loads shall be determined independent of one
another, and loads are assumed not to occur with any other live load.
R301.7 Deflection. The allowable deflection of any struc-
tural member under the live load listed in Sections R301.5
and R301.6 or wind loads determined by Section R301.2.1
shall not exceed the values in Table R301.7.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
47
BUILDING PLANNING
TABLER301.7
ALLOWABLE DEFLECTION OF STRUCTURAL MEMBERS" c
Section P2904 shall comply
STRUCTURAL MEMBER
ALLOWABLE
DEFLECTION
Rafters having slopes greater than 3:12 with no
finished ceiling attached to rafters
27180
Interior walls and partitions
77/180
Floors/ceilings with plaster or stucco finish
27360
All other structural members
L/240
Exterior walls — wind loads 3 with plaster or
stucco finish
22/360
Exterior walls with other brittle finishes
22/240
Exterior walls with flexible finishes
22/120"
Lintels supporting masonry veneer walls'
27600
Note: L = span length, H = span height.
a. The wind load shall be permitted to be taken as 0.7 times the Component
and Cladding loads for the purpose of the determining deflection limits
herein.
b For cantilever members, L shall be taken as twice the length of the
cantilever.
c. For aluminum structural members or panels used in roofs or walls of
sunroom additions or patio covers, not supporting edge of glass or
sandwich panels, the total load deflection shall not exceed 2760. For
continuous aluminum structural members supporting edge of glass, the
total load deflection shall not exceed A/175 for each glass lite or 1/60 for
the entire length of the member, whichever is more stringent. For
sandwich panels used in roofs or walls of sunroom additions or patio
covers, the total load deflection shall not exceed LI 120.
d. Deflection for exterior walls with interior gypsum board finish shall be
limited to an allowable deflection of /A/180.
e. Refer to Section R703.7.2.
R301.8 Nominal sizes. For the purposes of this code, where
dimensions of lumber are specified, they shall be deemed to
be nominal dimensions unless specifically designated as
actual dimensions.
SECTION R302
FSRE-RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION
R302.1 Exterior walls. Construction, projections, openings
and penetrations of exterior walls of dwellings and accessory
buildings shall comply with Table R302.1(l); or dwellings
equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system
installed in accordance with
with Table R302. 1(2).
Exceptions:
1. Walls, projections, openings or penetrations in walls
perpendicular to the line used to determine the fire
separation distance.
2. Walls of dwellings and accessory structures located
on the same lot.
3. Detached tool sheds and storage sheds, playhouses
and similar structures exempted from permits are
not required to provide wall protection based on
location on the lot. Projections beyond the exterior
wall shall not extend over the lot line.
4. Detached garages accessory to a dwelling located
within 2 feet (610 mm) of a lot line are permitted to
have roof eave projections not exceeding 4 inches
(102 mm).
5. Foundation vents installed in compliance with this
code are permitted.
R302.2 Townhouses. Each townhouse shall be considered a
separate building and shall be separated by fire-resistance-
rated wall assemblies meeting the requirements of Section
R302.1 for exterior walls.
Exception: A common 1-hour fire-resistance-rated wall
assembly tested in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL
263 is permitted for townhouses if such walls do not con-
tain plumbing or mechanical equipment, ducts or vents in
the cavity of the common wall. The wall shall be rated for
fire exposure from both sides and shall extend to and be
tight against exterior walls and the underside of the roof
sheathing. Electrical installations shall be installed in
accordance with Chapters 34 through 43. Penetrations of
electrical outlet boxes shall be in accordance with Section
R302.4.
R302.2.1 Continuity. The fire-resistance-rated wall or
assembly separating townhouses shall be continuous from
the foundation to the underside of the roof sheathing, deck
or slab. The fire-resistance rating shall extend the full
length of the wall or assembly, including wall extensions
TABLE R302.1(1)
EXTERIOR WALLS
EXTERIOR WALL ELEMENT
MINIMUM
FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING
MINIMUM FIRE
SEPARATION DISTANCE
Walls
Fire-resistance rated
1 hour— tested in accordance with ASTM E 1 19
or UL 263 with exposure from both sides
< 5 feet
Not fire-resistance rated
hours
> 5 feet
Projections
Fire-resistance rated
1 hour on the underside
> 2 feet to < 5 feet
Not fire-resistance rated
hours
> 5 feet
Openings in walls
Not allowed
N/A
< 3 feet
25% maximum of wall area
hours
3 feet
Unlimited
hours
5 feet
Penetrations
All
Comply with Section R302.4
< 5 feet
None required
5 feet
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
N/A = Not Applicable
48
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE" 1
BUILDiNG PLANNING
through and separating attached enclosed accessory struc-
tures.
R302.2.2 Parapets. Parapets constructed in accordance
with Section R302.2.3 shall be constructed for townhouses
as an extension of exterior walls or common walls in
accordance with the following:
1 . Where roof surfaces adjacent to the wall or walls are
at the same elevation, the parapet shall extend not
less than 30 inches (762 mm) above the roof sur-
faces.
2. Where roof surfaces adjacent to the wall or walls are
at different elevations and the higher roof is not
more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the lower roof,
the parapet shall extend not less than 30 inches (762
mm) above the lower roof surface.
Exception: A parapet is not required in the two
cases above when the roof is covered with a min-
imum class C roof covering, and the roof decking
or sheathing is of noncombustible materials or
approved fire-retardant-treated wood for a dis-
tance of 4 feet (1219 mm) on each side of the
wall or walls, or one layer of 5 / 8 -inch (15.9 mm)
Type X gypsum board is installed directly
beneath the roof decking or sheathing, supported
by a minimum of nominal 2-inch (51 mm) led-
gers attached to the sides of the roof framing
members, for a minimum distance of 4 feet (1219
mm) on each side of the wall or walls and there
are no openings or penetrations in the roof within
4 feet (1219 mm) of the common walls.
3. A parapet is not required where roof surfaces adja-
cent to the wall or walls are at different elevations
and the higher roof is more than 30 inches (762 mm)
above the lower roof. The common wall construc-
tion from the lower roof to the underside of the
higher roof deck shall have not less than a 1-hour
fire-resistance rating. The wall shall be rated for
exposure from both sides.
R302.2.3 Parapet construction. Parapets shall have the
same fire-resistance rating as that required for the support-
ing wall or walls. On any side adjacent to a roof surface,
the parapet shall have noncombustible faces for the upper-
most 18 inches (457 mm), to include counterflashing and
coping materials. Where the roof slopes toward a parapet
at slopes greater than 2 units vertical in 12 units horizontal
(16.7-percent slope), the parapet shall extend to the same
height as any portion of the roof within a distance of 3 feet
(914 mm), but in no case shall the height be less than 30
inches (762 mm).
R302.2.4 Structural independence. Each individual
townhouse shall be structurally independent.
Exceptions:
1. Foundations supporting exterior walls or com-
mon walls.
2. Structural roof and wall sheathing from each unit
may fasten to the common wall framing.
3. Nonstructural wall and roof coverings.
4. Flashing at termination of roof covering over
common wall.
5. Townhouses separated by a common 1-hour fire-
resistance-rated wall as provided in Section
R302.2.
R302.3 Two-family dwellings. Dwelling units in two-family
dwellings shall be separated from each other by wall and/or
floor assemblies having not less than a 1-hour fire-resistance
rating when tested in accordance with ASTM E 1 19 or UL
263. Fire-resistance-rated floor/ceiling and wall assemblies
shall extend to and be tight against the exterior wall, and wall
assemblies shall extend from the foundation to the underside
of the roof sheathing.
Exceptions:
1 . A fire-resistance rating of 7 2 hour shall be permitted
in buildings equipped throughout with an automatic
sprinkler system installed in accordance with NFPA
13.
TABLE R302. 1(2)
EXTERIOR WALLS— DWELLINGS WITH FIRE SPRINKLERS
EXTERIOR WALL ELEMENT
MINIMUM
FIRE-RESISTANCE RATING
MINIMUM FIRE
SEPARATION DISTANCE
Walls
Fire-resistance rated
1 hour — tested in accordance with ASTM E
1 19 or UL 263 with exposure from the outside
Ofeet
Not fire-resistance rated
hours
3 feet"
Projections
Fire- resistance rated
1 hour on the underside
2 feet"
Not fire-resistance rated
hours
3 feet
Openings in walls
Not allowed
N/A
< 3 feet
Unlimited
hours
3 feet"
Penetrations
All
Comply with Section R302.4
< 3 feet
None required
3 feet"
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
N/A = Not Applicable
a For residential subdivisions where all dwellings are equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with Section P2904, the
fire separation distance for nonrated exterior walls and rated projections shall be permitted to be reduced to feet, and unlimited unprotected openings and
penetrations shall be permitted, where the adjoining lot provides an open setback yard that is 6 feet or more in width on the opposite side of the property line.
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BUILDING PLANNING
2. Wall assemblies need not extend through attic
spaces when the ceiling is protected by not less than
5 / 8 -inch (15.9 mm) Type X gypsum board and an
attic draft stop constructed as specified in Section
R302.12.1 is provided above and along the wall
assembly separating the dwellings. The structural
framing supporting the ceiling shall also be pro-
tected by not less than ' A, -inch (12.7 mm) gypsum
board or equivalent.
R302.3.1 Supporting construction. When floor
assemblies are required to be fire-resistance rated by
Section R302.3, the supporting construction of such
assemblies shall have an equal or greater fire-resistance
rating.
R302.4 Dwelling unit rated penetrations. Penetrations of
wall or floor/ceiling assemblies required to be fire-resistance
rated in accordance with Section R302.2 or R302.3 shall be
protected in accordance with this section.
R302.4.1 Through penetrations. Through penetrations of
fire-resistance-rated wall or floor assemblies shall comply
with Section R302.4. 1.1 or R302.4.1.2.
Exception: Where the penetrating items are steel, fer-
rous or copper pipes, tubes or conduits, the annular
space shall be protected as follows:
1 . In concrete or masonry wall or floor assemblies,
concrete, grout or mortar shall be permitted
where installed to the full thickness of the wall or
floor assembly or the thickness required to main-
tain the fire-resistance rating, provided:
1.1. The nominal diameter of the penetrating
item is a maximum of 6 inches (152 mm);
and
1 .2. The area of the opening through the wall
does not exceed 144 square inches (92
900 mm 2 ).
2. The material used to fill the annular space shall
prevent the passage of flame and hot gases suffi-
cient to ignite cotton waste where subjected to
ASTM E 119 or UL 263 time temperature fire
conditions under a minimum positive pressure
differential of 0.01 inch of water (3 Pa) at the
location of the penetration for the time period
equivalent to the fire-resistance rating of the con-
struction penetrated.
R302.4.1.1 Fire-resistance-rated assembly. Penetra-
tions shall be installed as tested in the approved fire-
resistance-rated assembly.
R302.4.1.2 Penetration firestop system. Penetrations
shall be protected by an approved penetration firestop
system installed as tested in accordance with ASTM E
814 or UL 1479, with a minimum positive pressure dif-
ferential of 0.01 inch of water (3 Pa) and shall have an
F rating of not less than the required fire-resistance rat-
ing of the wall or floor/ceiling assembly penetrated.
R302.4.2 Membrane penetrations. Membrane penetra-
tions shall comply with Section R302.4.1. Where walls are
required to have a fire-resistance rating, recessed fixtures
shall be installed so that the required fire-resistance rating
will not be reduced.
Exceptions:
1. Membrane penetrations of maximum 2-hour fire-
resistance-rated walls and partitions by steel elec-
trical boxes that do not exceed 16 square inches
(0.0103 m 2 ) in area provided the aggregate area
of the openings through the membrane does not
exceed 100 square inches (0.0645 m 2 ) in any 100
square feet (9.29 m) 2 of wall area. The annular
space between the wall membrane and the box
shall not exceed V 8 inch (3.1 mm). Such boxes
on opposite sides of the wall shall be separated by
one of the following:
1.1. By a horizontal distance of not less than
24 inches (610 mm) where the wall or
partition is constructed with individual
noncommunicating stud cavities;
1 .2. By a horizontal distance of not less than
the depth of the wall cavity when the wall
cavity is filled with cellulose loose-fill,
rockwool or slag mineral wool insulation;
1.3. By solid fire blocking in accordance with
Section R302.U;
1 .4. By protecting both boxes with listed putty
pads; or
1.5. By other listed materials and methods.
2. Membrane penetrations by listed electrical boxes
of any materials provided the boxes have been
tested for use in fire-resistance-rated assemblies
and are installed in accordance with the instruc-
tions included in the listing. The annular space
between the wall membrane and the box shall not
exceed 7 8 inch (3.1 mm) unless listed otherwise.
Such boxes on opposite sides of the wall shall be
separated by one of the following:
2.1. By the horizontal distance specified in the
listing of the electrical boxes;
2.2. By solid fireblocking in accordance with
Section R302.ll;
2.3. By protecting both boxes with listed putty
pads; or
2.4. By other listed materials and methods.
3. The annular space created by the penetration of a
fire sprinkler provided it is covered by a metal
escutcheon plate.
R302.5 Dwelling/garage opening/penetration protection.
Openings and penetrations through the walls or ceilings sepa-
rating the dwelling from the garage shall be in accordance
with Sections R302.5.1 through R302.5.3.
R302.5.1 Opening protection. Openings from a private
garage directly into a room used for sleeping purposes
shall not be permitted. Other openings between the garage
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and residence shall be equipped with solid wood doors not
less than l'V 8 inches (35 mm) in thickness, solid or honey-
comb-core steel doors not less than l 3 / 8 inches (35 mm)
thick, or 20-minute fire-rated doors, equipped with a self-
closing device.
R302.5.2 Duct penetration. Ducts in the garage and ducts
penetrating the walls or ceilings separating the dwelling
from the garage shall be constructed of a minimum No. 26
gage (0.48 mm) sheet steel or other approved material and
shall have no openings into the garage.
R302.5.3 Other penetrations. Penetrations through the
separation required in Section R302.6 shall be protected as
required by Section R302. 1 1 , Item 4.
R302.6 Dwelling/garage tire separation. The garage shall
be separated as required by Table R302.6. Openings in
garage walls shall comply with Section R302.5. This provi-
sion does not apply to garage walls that are perpendicular to
the adjacent dwelling unit wall.
R302.7 Under-stair protection. Enclosed accessible space
under stairs shall have walls, under-stair surface and any sof-
fits protected on the enclosed side with V 2 -inch (12.7 mm)
gypsum board.
R302.8 Foam plastics. For requirements for foam plastics
see Section R3 16.
R302.9 Flame spread index and smoke-developed index
for wall and ceiling finishes. Flame spread and smoke index
for wall and ceiling finishes shall be in accordance with Sec-
tions R302.9.1 through R302.9.4.
R302.9.1 Flame spread index. Wall and ceiling finishes
shall have a flame spread index of not greater than 200.
Exception: Flame spread index requirements for fin-
ishes shall not apply to trim defined as picture molds,
chair rails, baseboards and handrails; to doors and win-
dows or their frames; or to materials that are less than 7 2g
inch (0.91 mm) in thickness cemented to the surface of
walls or ceilings if these materials exhibit flame spread
index values no greater than those of paper of this thick-
ness cemented to a noncombustible backing.
R302.9.2 Smoke-developed index. Wall and ceiling fin-
ishes shall have a smoke-developed index of not greater
than 450.
R302.9.3 Testing. Tests shall be made in accordance with
ASTME84orUL723.
R302.9.4 Alternative test method. As an alternative to
having a flame spread index of not greater than 200 and a
smoke-developed index of not greater than 450 when
tested in accordance with ASTM E 84 or UL 723, wall and
ceiling finishes shall be permitted to be tested in accor-
dance with NFPA 286. Materials tested in accordance with
NFPA 286 shall meet the following criteria:
The interior finish shall comply with the following:
1. During the 40 kW exposure, flames shall not
spread to the ceiling.
2. The flame shall not spread to the outer extremity
of the sample on any wall or ceiling.
3. Flashover, as defined in NFPA 286, shall not
occur.
4. The peak heat release rate throughout the test
shall not exceed 800 kW.
5. The total smoke released throughout the test shall
not exceed 1 ,000 m 2 .
R302.10 Flame spread index and smoke-developed index
for insulation. Flame spread and smoke-developed index for
insulation shall be in accordance with Sections R302.10.1
through R302. 10.5.
R302.10.1 Insulation. Insulation materials, including fac-
ings, such as vapor retarders and vapor-permeable mem-
branes installed within floor/ceiling assemblies, roof/
ceiling assemblies, wall assemblies, crawl spaces and
attics shall have a flame spread index not to exceed 25
with an accompanying smoke-developed index not to
exceed 450 when tested in accordance with ASTM E 84 or
UL 723.
Exceptions:
1 . When such materials are installed in concealed
spaces, the flame spread index and smoke-devel-
oped index limitations do not apply to the fac-
ings, provided that the facing is installed in
substantial contact with the unexposed surface of
the ceiling, floor or wall finish.
2. Cellulose loose-fill insulation, which is not spray
applied, complying with the requirements of Sec-
tion R302.10.3, shall only be required to meet the
smoke-developed index of not more than 450.
3. Foam plastic insulation shall comply with Sec-
tion R3 16.
TABLE R302.6
DWELLING/GARAGE SEPARATION
SEPARATION
MATERIAL
From the residence and attics
Not less than 7 2 -inch gypsum board or equivalent applied to the
garage side
From all habitable rooms above the garage
Not less than 5 / s -inch Type X gypsum board or equivalent
Structure(s) supporting floor/ceiling assemblies used for separation
required by this section
Not less than V 2 -inch gypsum board or equivalent
Garages located less than 3 feet from a dwelling unit on the same lot
Not less than 7,-inch gypsum board or equivalent applied to the inte-
rior side of exterior walls that are within this area
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
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R302.10.2 Loose-till insulation. Loose-fill insulation
materials that cannot be mounted in the ASTM E 84 or UL
723 apparatus without a screen or artificial supports shall
comply with the flame spread and smoke-developed limits
of Section R302.10.1 when tested in accordance with
CAN/ULCS102.2.
Exception: Cellulose loose-fill insulation shall not be
required to be tested in accordance with CAN/ULC
S 102.2, provided such insulation complies with the
requirements of Section R302.10.1 and Section
R302.10.3.
R302.10.3 Cellulose loose-fill insulation. Cellulose
loose-fill insulation shall comply with CPSC 16 CFR,
Parts 1209 and 1404. Each package of such insulating
material shall be clearly labeled in accordance with CPSC
16 CFR. Parts 1209 and 1404.
R302.10.4 Exposed attic insulation. All exposed insula-
tion materials installed on attic floors shall have a critical
radiant flux not less than 0.12 watt per square centimeter.
R302.10.5 Testing. Tests for critical radiant flux shall be
made in accordance with ASTM E 970.
R302.ll Fireblocking. In combustible construction, fire-
blocking shall be provided to cut off all concealed draft open-
ings (both vertical and horizontal) and to form an effective
fire barrier between stories, and between a top story and the
roof space.
Fireblocking shall be provided in wood-frame construc-
tion in the following locations:
1. In concealed spaces of stud walls and partitions, includ-
ing furred spaces and parallel rows of studs or stag-
gered studs, as follows:
1.1 . Vertically at the ceiling and floor levels.
1.2. Horizontally at intervals not exceeding 10 feet
(3048 mm).
2. At all interconnections between concealed vertical and
horizontal spaces such as occur at soffits, drop ceilings
and cove ceilings.
3. In concealed spaces between stair stringers at the top
and bottom of the run. Enclosed spaces under stairs
shall comply with Section R302.7.
4. At openings around vents, pipes, ducts, cables and
wires at ceiling and floor level, with an approved mate-
rial to resist the free passage of flame and products of
combustion. The material filling this annular space
shall not be required to meet the ASTM E 136 require-
ments.
5. For the fireblocking of chimneys and fireplaces, see
Section R1003. 19.
6. Fireblocking of cornices of a two-family dwelling is
required at the line of dwelling unit separation.
R302.ll. 1 Fireblocking materials. Except as provided in
Section R302. 1 1 , Item 4, fireblocking shall consist of the
following materials.
1 . Two-inch (51 mm) nominal lumber.
2. Two thicknesses of 1-inch (25.4 mm) nominal lum-
ber with broken lap joints.
3. One thickness of 23 / 32 -inch (18.3 mm) wood struc-
tural panels with joints backed by 23 / 3 ,-inch (18.3
mm) wood structural panels.
4. One thickness of 3 / 4 -inch (19.1 mm) particleboard
with joints backed by 3 / 4 -inch (19.1 mm) particle-
board.
5. One-half-inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board.
6. One-quarter-inch (6.4 mm) cement-based millboard.
7. Batts or blankets of mineral wool or glass fiber or
other approved materials installed in such a manner
as to be securely retained in place.
8. Cellulose insulation installed as tested for the spe-
cific application.
R302.ll. 1.1 Batts or blankets of mineral or glass
fiber. Batts or blankets of mineral or glass fiber or
other approved nonrigid materials shall be permitted
for compliance with the 10-foot (3048 mm) horizontal
fireblocking in walls constructed using parallel rows of
studs or staggered studs.
R302.11.1.2 Unfaced fiberglass. Unfaced fiberglass
batt insulation used as fireblocking shall fill the entire
cross section of the wall cavity to a minimum height of
16 inches (406 mm) measured vertically. When piping,
conduit or similar obstructions are encountered, the
insulation shall be packed tightly around the obstruc-
tion.
R302.11.1.3 Loose-fill insulation material. Loose-fill
insulation material shall not be used as a fireblock
unless specifically tested in the form and manner
intended for use to demonstrate its ability to remain in
place and to retard the spread of fire and hot gases.
R302.11.2 Fireblocking integrity. The integrity of all
fireblocks shall be maintained.
R302.12 Draftstopping. In combustible construction where
there is usable space both above and below the concealed
space of a floor/ceiling assembly, draftstops shall be installed
so that the area of the concealed space does not exceed 1 ,000
square feet (92.9 m 2 ). Draftstopping shall divide the con-
cealed space into approximately equal areas. Where the
assembly is enclosed by a floor membrane above and a ceil-
ing membrane below, draftstopping shall be provided in
floor/ceiling assemblies under the following circumstances:
1 . Ceiling is suspended under the floor framing.
2. Floor framing is constructed of truss-type open-web or
perforated members.
R302.12.1 Materials. Draftstopping materials shall not be
less than '/ 2 -inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board, 3 / 8 -mch (9.5
mm) wood structural panels or other approved materials
adequately supported. Draftopping shall be installed paral-
lel to the floor framing members unless otherwise
approved by the building official. The integrity of the
draftstops shall be maintained.
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R302.13 Combustible insulation clearance. Combustible
insulation shall be separated a minimum of 3 inches (76 mm)
from recessed luminaires, fan motors and other heat-produc-
ing devices.
Exception: Where heat-producing devices are listed for
lesser clearances, combustible insulation complying with
the listing requirements shall be separated in accordance
with the conditions stipulated in the listing.
Recessed luminaires installed in the building thermal
envelope shall meet the requirements of Section Nl 102.4.4 of
this code.
SECTION R303
LIGHT, VENTILATION AND HEATING
R303.1 Habitable rooms. All habitable rooms shall have an
aggregate glazing area of not less than 8 percent of the floor
area of such rooms. Natural ventilation shall be through win-
dows, doors, louvers or other approved openings to the out-
door air. Such openings shall be provided with ready access
or shall otherwise be readily controllable by the building
occupants. The minimum openable area to the outdoors shall
be 4 percent of the floor area being ventilated.
Exceptions:
1. The glazed areas need not be openable where the
opening is not required by Section R310 and a
whole-house mechanical ventilation system is
installed in accordance with Section Ml 507.
2. The glazed areas need not be installed in rooms
where Exception 1 above is satisfied and artificial
light is provided capable of producing an average
illumination of 6 footcandles (65 lux) over the area
of the room at a height of 30 inches (762 mm) above
the floor level.
3. Use of sunroom and patio covers, as defined in Sec-
tion R202, shall be permitted for natural ventilation
if in excess of 40 percent of the exterior sunroom
walls are open, or are enclosed only by insect
screening.
R303.2 Adjoining rooms. For the purpose of determining
light and ventilation requirements, any room shall be consid-
ered as a portion of an adjoining room when at least one-half
of the area of the common wall is open and unobstructed and
provides an opening of not less than one-tenth of the floor
area of the interior room but not less than 25 square feet (2.3
m 2 ).
Exception: Openings required for light and/or ventilation
shall be permitted to open into a sunroom with thermal
isolation or a patio cover, provided that there is an open-
able area between the adjoining room and the sunroom or
patio cover of not less than one-tenth of the floor area of
the interior room but not less than 20 square feet (2 m 2 ).
The minimum openable area to the outdoors shall be based
upon the total floor area being ventilated.
R303.3 Bathrooms. Bathrooms, water closet compartments
and other similar rooms shall be provided with aggregate
glazing area in windows of not less than 3 square feet (0.3
m 2 ), one-half of which must be openable.
Exception: The glazed areas shall not be required where
artificial light and a local exhaust system are provided.
The minimum local exhaust rates shall be determined in
accordance with Section Ml 507. Exhaust air from the
space shall be exhausted directly to the outdoors.
R303.4 Mechanical ventilation. Where the air infiltration
rate of a dwelling unit is less than 5 air changes per hour
when tested with a blower door at a pressure of 0.2 inch w.c
(50 Pa) in accordance with Section Nl 102.4.1.2, the dwelling
unit shall be provided with whole-house mechanical ventila-
tion in accordance with Section Ml 507.3.
R303.5 Opening location. Outdoor intake and exhaust open-
ings shall be located in accordance with Sections R303.5.1
and R303.5.2.
R303.5.1 intake openings. Mechanical and gravity out-
door air intake openings shall be located a minimum of 10
feet (3048 mm) from any hazardous or noxious contami-
nant, such as vents, chimneys, plumbing vents, streets,
alleys, parking lots and loading docks, except as otherwise
specified in this code. Where a source of contaminant is
located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of an intake opening,
such opening shall be located a minimum of 3 feet (914
mm) below the contaminant source.
For the purpose of this section, the exhaust from dwell-
ing unit toilet rooms, bathrooms and kitchens shall not be
considered as hazardous or noxious.
R303.5.2 Exhaust openings. Exhaust air shall not be
directed onto walkways.
R303.6 Outside opening protection. Air exhaust and intake
openings that terminate outdoors shall be protected with cor-
rosion-resistant screens, louvers or grilles having a minimum
opening size of 7 4 inch (6 mm) and a maximum opening size
of V 2 inch (13 mm), in any dimension. Openings shall be pro-
tected against local weather conditions. Outdoor air exhaust
and intake openings shall meet the provisions for exterior
wall opening protectives in accordance with this code.
R303.7 Stairway illumination. All interior and exterior
stairways shall be provided with a means to illuminate the
stairs, including the landings and treads. Interior stairways
shall be provided with an artificial light source located in the
immediate vicinity of each landing of the stairway. For inte-
rior stairs the artificial light sources shall be capable of illu-
minating treads and landings to levels not less than 1 foot-
candle (11 lux) measured at the center of treads and landings.
Exterior stairways shall be provided with an artificial light
source located in the immediate vicinity of the top landing of
the stairway. Exterior stairways providing access to a base-
ment from the outside grade level shall be provided with an
artificial light source located in the immediate vicinity of the
bottom landing of the stairway.
Exception: An artificial light source is not required at the
top and bottom landing, provided an artificial light source
is located directly over each stairway section.
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BUILDING PLANNING
R303.7.1 Light activation. Where lighting outlets are
installed in interior stairways, there shall be a wall switch
at each floor level to control the lighting outlet where the
stairway has six or more risers. The illumination of exte-
rior stairways shall be controlled from inside the dwelling
unit.
Exception: Lights that are continuously illuminated or
automatically controlled.
R303.8 Required glazed openings. Required glazed open-
ings shall open directly onto a street or public alley, or a yard
or court located on the same lot as the building.
Exceptions:
1. Required glazed openings may face into a roofed
porch where the porch abuts a street, yard or court
and the longer side of the porch is at least 65 percent
unobstructed and the ceiling height is not less than 7
feet (21 34 mm).
2. Eave projections shall not be considered as obstruct-
ing the clear open space of a yard or court.
3. Required glazed openings may face into the area
under a deck, balcony, bay or floor cantilever pro-
vided a clear vertical space at least 36 inches (914
mm) in height is provided.
R303.8.1 Sunroom additions. Required glazed openings
shall be permitted to open into sunroom additions or patio
covers that abut a street, yard or court if in excess of 40
percent of the exterior sunroom walls are open, or are
enclosed only by insect screening, and the ceiling height
of the sunroom is not less than 7 feet (2134 mm).
R303.9 Required heating. When the winter design tempera-
ture in Table R301 .2(1) is below 60°F (16°C), every dwelling
unit shall be provided with heating facilities capable of main-
taining a minimum room temperature of 68°F (20°C) at a
point 3 feet (914 mm) above the floor and 2 feet (610 mm)
from exterior walls in all habitable rooms at the design tem-
perature. The installation of one or more portable space heat-
ers shall not be used to achieve compliance with this section.
SECTION R304
MINIMUM ROOM AREAS
R304.1 Minimum area. Every dwelling unit shall have at
least one habitable room that shall have not less than 120
square feet (11m 2 ) of gross floor area.
R304.2 Other rooms. Other habitable rooms shall have a
floor area of not less than 70 square feet (6.5 m 2 ).
Exception: Kitchens.
R304.3 Minimum dimensions. Habitable rooms shall not be
less than 7 feet (2134 mm) in any horizontal dimension.
Exception: Kitchens.
R304.4 Height effect on room area. Portions of a room with
a sloping ceiling measuring less than 5 feet (1524 mm) or a
furred ceiling measuring less than 7 feet (2134 mm) from the
finished floor to the finished ceiling shall not be considered
as contributing to the minimum required habitable area for
that room.
SECTION R305
CEILING HEIGHT
R305.1 Minimum height. Habitable space, hallways, bath-
rooms, toilet rooms, laundry rooms and portions of base-
ments containing these spaces shall have a ceiling height of
not less than 7 feet (2134 mm).
Exceptions:
1 . For rooms with sloped ceilings, at least 50 percent of
the required floor area of the room must have a ceil-
ing height of at least 7 feet (2134 mm) and no por-
tion of the required floor area may have a ceiling
height of less than 5 feet ( 1 524 mm).
2. Bathrooms shall have a minimum ceiling height of 6
feet 8 inches (2032 mm) at the center of the front
clearance area for fixtures as shown in Figure
R307.1. The ceiling height above fixtures shall be
such that the fixture is capable of being used for its
intended purpose. A shower or tub equipped with a
showerhead shall have a minimum ceiling height of
6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm) above a minimum area 30
inches (762 mm) by 30 inches (762 mm) at the
showerhead.
R305.1.1 Basements. Portions of basements that do not
contain habitable space, hallways, bathrooms, toilet
rooms and laundry rooms shall have a ceiling height of not
less than 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm).
Exception: Beams, girders, ducts or other obstructions
may project to within 6 feet 4 inches (1931 mm) of the
finished floor.
SECTION R306
SANITATION
R306.1 Toilet facilities. Every dwelling unit shall be pro-
vided with a water closet, lavatory, and a bathtub or shower.
R306.2 Kitchen. Each dwelling unit shall be provided with a
kitchen area and every kitchen area shall be provided with a
sink.
R306.3 Sewage disposal. All plumbing fixtures shall be con-
nected to a sanitary sewer or to an approved private sewage
disposal system.
R306.4 Water supply to fixtures. All plumbing fixtures
shall be connected to an approved water supply. Kitchen
sinks, lavatories, bathtubs, showers, bidets, laundry tubs and
washing machine outlets shall be provided with hot and cold
water.
SECTION R307
TOILET, BATH AND SHOWER SPACES
R307.1 Space required. Fixtures shall be spaced in accor-
dance with Figure R307.1, and in accordance with the
requirements of Section P2705.1.
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BUILDING PLANNING
R307.2 Bathtub and shower spaces. Bathtub and shower
floors and walls above bathtubs with installed shower heads
and in shower compartments shall be finished with a nonab-
sorbent surface. Such wall surfaces shall extend to a height of
not less than 6 feet (1829 mm) above the floor.
SECTION R308
GLAZING
R308.1 Identification. Except as indicated in Section
R308.1.1 each pane of glazing installed in hazardous loca-
tions as defined in Section R308.4 shall be provided with a
manufacturer's designation specifying who applied the desig-
nation, designating the type of glass and the safety glazing
standard with which it complies, which is visible in the final
installation. The designation shall be acid etched, sand-
blasted, ceramic-fired, laser etched, embossed, or be of a type
which once applied cannot be removed without being
destroyed. A label shall be permitted in lieu of the manufac-
turer's designation.
Exceptions:
1. For other than tempered glass, manufacturer's desig-
nations are not required provided the building offi-
cial approves the use of a certificate, affidavit or
other evidence confirming compliance with this
code.
2. Tempered spandrel glass is permitted to be identi-
fied by the manufacturer with a removable paper
designation
WALL\
WALL
15" IN
WALL
-^-
I
21" IN
CLEARANCE
_J
24 IN. CLEARANCE IN
FRONT OF OPENING
SHOWER
15 IN
M—~ m
/WALL
WATER CLOSET
OR BIDET
15 IN
WALL
}
21 IN.
CLEARANCE
21 IN
CLEARANCE
1
WALL
WATER CLOSETS
WALL
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R307.1
MINIMUM FIXTURE CLEARANCES
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
55
BUILDING PLANNING
R308.1.1 Identification of multiple assemblies. Multi-
pane assemblies having individual panes not exceeding
1 square foot (0.09 m 2 ) in exposed area shall have at
least one pane in the assembly identified in accordance
with Section R308.1. All other panes in the assembly
shall be labeled "CPSC 16 CFR 1201" or "ANSI Z97.1"
as appropriate.
R308.2 Loovered windows or jalousies. Regular, float,
wired or patterned glass in jalousies and louvered windows
shall be no thinner than nominal 3 / 16 inch (5 mm) and no lon-
ger than 48 inches (1219 mm). Exposed glass edges shall be
smooth.
R308.2.1 Wired glass prohibited. Wired glass with wire
exposed on longitudinal edges shall not be used in jalou-
sies or louvered windows.
R308.3 Human impact loads. Individual glazed areas,
including glass mirrors in hazardous locations such as those
indicated as defined in Section R308.4, shall pass the test
requirements of Section R308.3.1.
Exceptions:
1. Louvered windows and jalousies shall comply with
Section R308.2.
2. Mirrors and other glass panels mounted or hung on a
surface that provides a continuous backing support.
3. Glass unit masonry complying with Section R610.
R308.3.1 Impact test. Where required by other sections
of the code, glazing shall be tested in accordance with
CPSC 16 CFR 1201. Glazing shall comply with the test
criteria for Category II unless otherwise indicated in Table
R308.3.1(l).
Exception: Glazing not in doors or enclosures for hot
tubs, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, bathtubs and
showers shall be permitted to be tested in accordance
with ANSI Z97.1. Glazing shall comply with the test
criteria for Class A unless indicated in Table R308.3.1
(2).
R308.4 Hazardous locations. The locations specified in Sec-
tions R308.4.1 through R308.4.7 shall be considered specific
hazardous locations for the purposes of glazing.
R308.4.1 Glazing in doors. Glazing in all fixed and oper-
able panels of swinging, sliding and bifold doors shall be
considered a hazardous location.
Exceptions:
1. Glazed openings of a size through which a 3-
inch-diameter (76 mm) sphere is unable to pass.
2. Decorative glazing.
R308.4.2 Glazing adjacent doors. Glazing in an individ-
ual fixed or operable panel adjacent to a door where the
nearest vertical edge of the glazing is within a 24-inch
(610 mm) arc of either vertical edge of the door in a closed
position and where the bottom exposed edge of the glazing
is less than 60 inches (1524 mm) above the floor or walk-
ing surface shall be considered a hazardous location.
Exceptions:
1 . Decorative glazing.
2. When there is an intervening wall or other perma-
nent barrier between the door and the glazing.
3. Glazing in walls on the latch side of and perpen-
dicular to the plane of the door in a closed posi-
tion.
4. Where access through the door is to a closet or
storage area 3 feet (914 mm) or less in depth.
Glazing in this application shall comply with sec-
tion R308.4.3.
5. Glazing that is adjacent to the fixed panel of patio
doors.
R308.4.3 Glazing in windows. Glazing in an individual
fixed or operable panel that meets all of the following con-
ditions shall be considered a hazardous location:
1 . The exposed area of an individual pane is larger than
9 square feet (0.836 m 2 );
TABLE R308.3.1(1)
MINIMUM CATEGORY CLASSIFICATION OF GLAZING USING CPSC 16 CFR 1201
EXPOSED SURFACE
AREA OF ONE SIDE
OF ONE LITE
GLAZING IN
STORM OR
COMBINATION
DOORS
(Category Class)
GLAZING IN
DOORS
(Category Class)
GLAZED PANELS
REGULATED BY
SECTION R308.4.3
(Category Class)
GLAZED PANELS
REGULATED BY
SECTION R308.4.2
(Category Class)
GLAZING IN
DOORS AND
ENCLOSURES
REGULATED BY
SECTION 308.4.5
(Category Class)
SLIDING GLASS
DOORS PATIO TYPE
(Category Class)
9 square feet or less
I
I
NR
I
II
II
More than 9 square feet
II
11
II
II
II
II
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m 2 .
NR means "No Requirement."
TABLE R308.3.1(2)
MINIMUM CATEGORY CLASSIFICATION OF GLAZING USING ANSI Z97.1
EXPOSED SURFACE AREA
OF ONE SIDE OF ONE LITE
GLAZED PANELS REGULATED BY
SECTION R308.4.3
(Category Class)
GLAZED PANELS REGULATED BY
SECTION R308.4.2
(Category Class)
DOORS AND ENCLOSURES REGULATED
BY SECTION R308.4.5"
(Category Class)
9 square feet or less
No requirement
B
A
More than 9 square feet
A
A
A
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m 2 .
a. Use is permitted only by the exception to Section R308.3. 1.
56
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
BUILDING PLANNING
2. The bottom edge of the glazing is less than 1 8 inches
(457 mm) above the floor;
3. The top edge of the glazing is more than 36 inches
(914 mm) above the floor; and
4. One or more walking surfaces are within 36 inches
(914 mm), measured horizontally and in a straight
line, of the glazing.
Exceptions:
1. Decorative glazing.
2. When a horizontal rail is installed on the
accessible side(s) of the glazing 34 to 38
inches (864 to 965 mm) above the walking
surface. The rail shall be capable of with-
standing a horizontal load of 50 pounds per
linear foot (730 N/m) without contacting
the glass and be a minimum of 1 7 2 inches
(38 mm) in cross sectional height.
3. Outboard panes in insulating glass units
and other multiple glazed panels when the
bottom edge of the glass is 25 feet (7620
mm) or more above grade, a roof, walking
surfaces or other horizontal [within 45
degrees (0.79 rad) of horizontal] surface
adjacent to the glass exterior.
R308.4.4 Glazing In guards and railings. Glazing in
guards and railings, including structural baluster panels
and nonstructural in-fill panels, regardless of area or
height above a walking surface shall be considered a haz-
ardous location.
R308.4.5 Glazing and wet surfaces. Glazing in walls,
enclosures or fences containing or facing hot tubs, spas,
whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, bathtubs, showers and
indoor or outdoor swimming pools where the bottom
exposed edge of the glazing is less than 60 inches (1524
mm) measured vertically above any standing or walking
surface shall be considered a hazardous location. This
shall apply to single glazing and all panes in multiple glaz-
ing.
Exception: Glazing that is more than 60 inches (1524
mm), measured horizontally and in a straight line, from
the water's edge of a bathtub, hot tub, spa, whirlpool, or
swimming pool.
R308.4.6 Glazing adjacent stairs and ramps. Glazing
where the bottom exposed edge of the glazing is less than
36 inches (914 mm) above the plane of the adjacent walk-
ing surface of stairways, landings between flights of stairs
and ramps shall be considered a hazardous location.
Exceptions:
1 . When a rail is installed on the accessible side(s)
of the glazing 34 to 38 inches (864 to 965 mm)
above the walking surface. The rail shall be capa-
ble of withstanding a horizontal load of 50
pounds per linear foot (730 N/m) without con-
tacting the glass and be a minimum of lV, inches
(38 mm) in cross sectional height.
2. Glazing 36 inches (914 mm) or more measured
horizontally from the walking surface.
R308.4.7 Glazing adjacent to the bottom stair landing.
Glazing adjacent to the landing at the bottom of a stairway
where the glazing is less than 36 inches (914 mm) above
the landing and within 60 inches (1524 mm) horizontally
of the bottom tread shall be considered a hazardous loca-
tion.
Exception: The glazing is protected by a guard com-
plying with Section R312 and the plane of the glass is
more than 1 8 inches (457 mm) from the guard.
R308.5 Site built windows. Site built windows shall comply
with Section 2404 of the International Building Code.
R308.6 Skylights and sloped glazing. Skylights and sloped
glazing shall comply with the following sections.
R308.6.1 Definitions.
SKYLIGHT, UNIT. A factory assembled, glazed fen-
estration unit, containing one panel of glazing material,
that allows for natural daylighting through an opening
in the roof assembly while preserving the weather-
resistant barrier of the roof.
SKYLIGHTS AND SLOPED GLAZING. Glass or
other transparent or translucent glazing material
installed at a slope of 15 degrees (0.26 rad) or more
from vertical. Glazing materials in skylights, including
unit skylights, tubular daylighting devices, solariums,
sunrooms, roofs and sloped walls are included in this
definition.
TUBULAR DAYLIGHTING DEVICE (TDD). A
nonoperable fenestration unit primarily designed to
transmit daylight from a roof surface to an interior ceil-
ing via a tubular conduit. The basic unit consists of an
exterior glazed weathering surface, a light-transmitting
tube with a reflective interior surface, and an interior-
sealing device such as a translucent ceiling panel. The
unit may be factory assembled, or field assembled from
a manufactured kit.
R308.6.2 Permitted materials. The following types of
glazing may be used:
1. Laminated glass with a minimum 0.015-inch (0.38
mm) polyvinyl butyral interlayer for glass panes 1 6
square feet (1.5 m 2 ) or less in area located such that
the highest point of the glass is not more than 1 2 feet
(3658 mm) above a walking surface or other acces-
sible area; for higher or larger sizes, the minimum
interlayer thickness shall be 0.030 inch (0.76 mm).
2. Fully tempered glass.
3. Heat- strengthened glass.
4. Wired glass.
5. Approved rigid plastics.
R308.6.3 Screens, general. For fully tempered or heat-
strengthened glass, a retaining screen meeting the require-
ments of Section R308.6.7 shall be installed below the
glass, except for fully tempered glass that meets either
condition listed in Section R308.6.5.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
57
BUILDING PLANNING
R308.6.4 Screens with multiple glazing. When the
inboard pane is fully tempered, heat-strengthened or wired
glass, a retaining screen meeting the requirements of Sec-
tion R308.6.7 shall be installed below the glass, except for
either condition listed in Section R308.6.5. All other panes
in the multiple glazing may be of any type listed in Section
R308.6.2.
R308.6.5 Screens not required. Screens shall not be
required when fully tempered glass is used as single glaz-
ing or the inboard pane in multiple glazing and either of
the following conditions are met:
1. Glass area 16 square feet (1.49 m 2 ) or less. Highest
point of glass not more than 12 feet (3658 mm)
above a walking surface or other accessible area,
nominal glass thickness not more than 3 / Kl inch (4.8
mm), and (for multiple glazing only) the other pane
or panes fully tempered, laminated or wired glass.
2. Glass area greater than 16 square feet (1.49 m 2 ).
Glass sloped 30 degrees (0.52 rad) or less from ver-
tical, and highest point of glass not more than 10 feet
(3048 mm) above a walking surface or other acces-
sible area.
R308.6.6 Glass in greenhouses. Any glazing material is
permitted to be installed without screening in the sloped
areas of greenhouses, provided the greenhouse height at
the ridge does not exceed 20 feet (6096 mm) above grade.
R308.6.7 Screen characteristics. The screen and its fas-
tenings shall be capable of supporting twice the weight of
the glazing, be firmly and substantially fastened to the
framing members, and have a mesh opening of no more
than 1 inch by 1 inch (25 mm by 25 mm).
R308.6.8 Curbs for skylights. All unit skylights installed
in a roof with a pitch flatter than three units vertical in 12
units horizontal (25 -percent slope) shall be mounted on a
curb extending at least 4 inches (102 mm) above the plane
of the roof unless otherwise specified in the manufac-
turer's installation instructions.
R308.6.9 Testing and labeling. Unit skylights and tubular
daylighting devices shall be tested by an approved inde-
pendent laboratory, and bear a label identifying manufac-
turer, performance grade rating and approved inspection
agency to indicate compliance with the requirements of
AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440.
SECTION R309
GARAGES AND CARPORTS
R309.1 Floor surface. Garage floor surfaces shall be of
approved noncombustible material.
The area of floor used for parking of automobiles or other
vehicles shall be sloped to facilitate the movement of liquids
to a drain or toward the main vehicle entry doorway.
R309.2 Carports. Carports shall be open on at least two
sides. Carport floor surfaces shall be of approved noncom-
bustible material. Carports not open on at least two sides shall
be considered a garage and shall comply with the provisions
of this section for garages.
Exception: Asphalt surfaces shall be permitted at ground
level in carports.
The area of floor used for parking of automobiles or other
vehicles shall be sloped to facilitate the movement of liquids
to a drain or toward the main vehicle entry doorway.
R309.3 Flood hazard areas. For buildings located in flood
hazard areas as established by Table R301.2(l), garage floors
shall be:
1. Elevated to or above the design flood elevation as
determined in Section R322; or
2. Located below the design flood elevation provided they
are at or above grade on at least one side, are used
solely for parking, building access or storage, meet the
requirements of Section R322 and are otherwise con-
structed in accordance with this code.
R309.4 Automatic garage door openers. Automatic garage
door openers, if provided, shall be listed and labeled in accor-
dance with UL 325.
R309.5 Fire sprinklers. Private garages shall be protected by
fire sprinklers where the garage wall has been designed based
on Table R302.1(2), Footnote a. Sprinklers in garages shall
be connected to an automatic sprinkler system that complies
with Section P2904. Garage sprinklers shall be residential
sprinklers or quick-response sprinklers, designed to provide a
density of 0.05 gpm/ft 2 . Garage doors shall not be considered
obstructions with respect to sprinkler placement.
SECTION R310
EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE OPENINGS
R310.1 Emergency escape and rescue required. Base-
ments, habitable attics and every sleeping room shall have at
least one operable emergency escape and rescue opening.
Where basements contain one or more sleeping rooms, emer-
gency egress and rescue openings shall be required in each
sleeping room. Where emergency escape and rescue openings
are provided they shall have a sill height of not more than 44
inches (1118 mm) measured from the finished floor to the
bottom of the clear opening. Where a door opening having a
threshold below the adjacent ground elevation serves as an
emergency escape and rescue opening and is provided with a
bulkhead enclosure, the bulkhead enclosure shall comply
with Section R310.3. The net clear opening dimensions
required by this section shall be obtained by the normal oper-
ation of the emergency escape and rescue opening from the
inside. Emergency escape and rescue openings with a fin-
ished sill height below the adjacent ground elevation shall be
provided with a window well in accordance with Section
R310.2. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall open
directly into a public way, or to a yard or court that opens to a
public way.
Exception: Basements used only to house mechanical
equipment and not exceeding total floor area of 200 square
feet (18.58 m 2 ).
58
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
BUILDING PLANNING
R31 0.1.1 Minimum opening area. All emergency escape
and rescue openings shall have a minimum net clear open-
ing of 5.7 square feet (0.530 m 2 ).
Exception: Grade floor openings shall have a mini-
mum net clear opening of 5 square feet (0.465 m 2 ).
R310.1.2 Minimum opening height. The minimum net
clear opening height shall be 24 inches (610 mm).
R310.1.3 Minimum opening width. The minimum net
clear opening width shall be 20 inches (508 mm).
R310.1.4 Operational constraints. Emergency escape
and rescue openings shall be operational from the inside of
the room without the use of keys, tools or special knowl-
edge.
R310.2 Window wells. The minimum horizontal area of the
window well shall be 9 square feet (0.9 m 2 ), with a minimum
horizontal projection and width of 36 inches (914 mm). The
area of the window well shall allow the emergency escape
and rescue opening to be fully opened.
Exception: The ladder or steps required by Section
R3 10.2.1 shall be permitted to encroach a maximum of 6
inches (152 mm) into the required dimensions of the win-
dow well.
R310.2.1 Ladder and steps. Window wells with a verti-
cal depth greater than 44 inches (1118 mm) shall be
equipped with a permanently affixed ladder or steps usable
with the window in the fully open position. Ladders or
steps required by this section shall not be required to com-
ply with Sections R311.7 and R311.8. Ladders or rungs
shall have an inside width of at least 12 inches (305 mm),
shall project at least 3 inches (76 mm) from the wall and
shall be spaced not more than 18 inches (457 mm) on cen-
ter vertically for the full height of the window well.
R310.2.2 Drainage. Window wells shall be designed for
proper drainage by connecting to the building's foundation
drainage system required by Section R405.1 or by an
approved alternative method.
Exception: A drainage system for window wells is not
required when the foundation is on well-drained soil or
sand-gravel mixture soils according to the United Soil
Classification System, Group I Soils, as detailed in
Table R405.1.
R310.3 Bulkhead enclosures. Bulkhead enclosures shall
provide direct access to the basement. The bulkhead enclo-
sure with the door panels in the fully open position shall pro-
vide the minimum net clear opening required by Section
R3 10.1.1. Bulkhead enclosures shall also comply with Sec-
tion R31 1.7.8.2.
R310.4 Bars, grilles, covers and screens. Bars, grilles, cov-
ers, screens or similar devices are permitted to be placed over
emergency escape and rescue openings, bulkhead enclosures,
or window wells that serve such openings, provided the mini-
mum net clear opening size complies with Sections R310.1.1
to R310.1.3, and such devices shall be releasable or remov-
able from the inside without the use of a key, tool, special
knowledge or force greater than that which is required for
normal operation of the escape and rescue opening.
R310.5 Emergency escape windows under decks and
porches. Emergency escape windows are allowed to be
installed under decks and porches provided the location of the
deck allows the emergency escape window to be fully opened
and provides a path not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in
height to a yard or court.
SECTION R311
MEANS OF EGRESS
R311.1 Means of egress. All dwellings shall be provided
with a means of egress as provided in this section. The means
of egress shall provide a continuous and unobstructed path of
vertical and horizontal egress travel from all portions of the
dwelling to the exterior of the dwelling at the required egress
door without requiring travel through a garage.
R311.2 Egress door. At least one egress door shall be pro-
vided for each dwelling unit. The egress door shall be side-
hinged, and shall provide a minimum clear width of 32 inches
(813 mm) when measured between the face of the door and
the stop, with the door open 90 degrees (1.57 rad). The mini-
mum clear height of the door opening shall not be less than
78 inches (1981 mm) in height measured from the top of the
threshold to the bottom of the stop. Other doors shall not be
required to comply with these minimum dimensions. Egress
doors shall be readily openable from inside the dwelling with-
out the use of a key or special knowledge or effort.
R311.3 Floors and landings at exterior doors. There shall
be a landing or floor on each side of each exterior door. The
width of each landing shall not be less than the door served.
Every landing shall have a minimum dimension of 36 inches
(914 mm) measured in the direction of travel. Exterior land-
ings shall be permitted to have a slope not to exceed 7 4 unit
vertical in 12 units horizontal (2-percent).
Exception: Exterior balconies less than 60 square feet (5.6
m 2 ) and only accessible from a door are permitted to have
a landing less than 36 inches (914 mm) measured in the
direction of travel.
R311.3.1 Floor elevations at the required egress doors.
Landings or finished floors at the required egress door
shall not be more than l'/ 2 inches (38 mm) lower than the
top of the threshold.
Exception: The landing or floor on the exterior side
shall not be more than 7 3 / 4 inches (196 mm) below the
top of the threshold provided the door does not swing
over the landing or floor.
Where exterior landings or floors serving the required
egress door are not at grade, they shall be provided with
access to grade by means of a ramp in accordance with
Section R311.8 or a stairway in accordance with Section
R311.7.
R31 1.3.2 Floor elevations for other exterior doors.
Doors other than the required egress door shall be pro-
vided with landings or floors not more than 7 3 / 4 inches
(196 mm) below the top of the threshold.
Exception: A landing is not required where a stairway
of two or fewer risers is located on the exterior side of
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
59
BUILDING PLANNING
the door, provided the door does not swing over the
stairway.
R311.3.3 Storm and screen doors. Storm and screen
doors shall be permitted to swing over all exterior stairs
and landings.
R311.4 Vertical egress. Egress from habitable levels includ-
ing habitable attics and basements not provided with an
egress door in accordance with Section R3 1 1 .2 shall be by a
ramp in accordance with Section R311.8 or a stairway in
accordance with Section R31 1.7.
R311.5 Construction.
R311.5.1 Attachment. Exterior landings, decks, balco-
nies, stairs and similar facilities shall be positively
anchored to the primary structure to resist both vertical
and lateral forces or shall be designed to be self-support-
ing. Attachment shall not be accomplished by use of toe-
nails or nails subject to withdrawal.
R311.6 Hallways. The minimum width of a hallway shall be
not less than 3 feet (914 mm).
R311.7 Stairways.
R311.7.1 Width. Stairways shall not be less than 36
inches (914 mm) in clear width at all points above the per-
mitted handrail height and below the required headroom
height. Handrails shall not project more than 4.5 inches
(1 14 mm) on either side of the stairway and the minimum
clear width of the stairway at and below the handrail
height, including treads and landings, shall not be less than
31'/ 2 inches (787 mm) where a handrail is installed on one
side and 27 inches (698 mm) where handrails are provided
on both sides.
Exception: The width of spiral stairways shall be in
accordance with Section R3 11. 7.9.1.
R311.7.2 Headroom. The minimum headroom in all parts
of the stairway shall not be less than 6 feet 8 inches (2032
mm) measured vertically from the sloped line adjoining
the tread nosing or from the floor surface of the landing or
platform on that portion of the stairway.
Exception: Where the nosings of treads at the side of a
flight extend under the edge of a floor opening through
which the stair passes, the floor opening shall be
allowed to project horizontally into the required head-
room a maximum of 4 3 / 4 inches (121 mm).
R311.7.3 Vertical rise. A flight of stairs shall not have a
vertical rise larger than 12 feet (3658 mm) between floor
levels or landings.
R311.7.4 Walkline. The walkline across winder treads
shall be concentric to the curved direction of travel
through the turn and located 12 inches (305 mm) from the
side where the winders are narrower. The 12-inch (305
mm) dimension shall be measured from the widest point
of the clear stair width at the walking surface of the
winder. If winders are adjacent within the flight, the point
of the widest clear stair width of the adjacent winders shall
be used.
R31 1.7.5 Stair treads and risers. Stair treads and risers
shall meet the requirements of this section. For the pur-
poses of this section all dimensions and dimensioned sur-
faces shall be exclusive of carpets, rugs or runners.
R311.7.5.1 Risers. The maximum riser height shall be
7 3 / 4 inches (196 mm). The riser shall be measured verti-
cally between leading edges of the adjacent treads. The
greatest riser height within any flight of stairs shall not
exceed the smallest by more than 3 / 8 inch (9.5 mm).
Risers shall be vertical or sloped from the underside of
the nosing of the tread above at an angle not more than
30 degrees (0.51 rad) from the vertical. Open risers are
permitted provided that the opening between treads
does not permit the passage of a 4- inch-diameter (102
mm) sphere.
Exception: The opening between adjacent treads is
not limited on stairs with a total rise of 30 inches
(762 mm) or less.
R311.7.5.2 Treads. The minimum tread depth shall be
10 inches (254 mm). The tread depth shall be measured
horizontally between the vertical planes of the foremost
projection of adjacent treads and at a right angle to the
tread's leading edge. The greatest tread depth within
any flight of stairs shall not exceed the smallest by
more than 3 / 8 inch (9.5 mm).
R311.7.5.2.1 Winder treads. Winder treads shall
have a minimum tread depth of 10 inches (254 mm)
measured between the vertical planes of the fore-
most projection of adjacent treads at the intersec-
tions with the walkline. Winder treads shall have a
minimum tread depth of 6 inches (152 mm) at any
point within the clear width of the stair. Within any
flight of stairs, the largest winder tread depth at the
walkline shall not exceed the smallest winder tread
by more than 3 / 8 inch (9.5 mm). Consistently shaped
winders at the walkline shall be allowed within the
same flight of stairs as rectangular treads and do not
have to be within 3 / g inch (9.5 mm) of the rectangu-
lar tread depth.
R31 1.7.5.3 Nosings. The radius of curvature at the nos-
ing shall be no greater than 9 / l6 inch (14 mm). A nosing
not less than 3 / 4 inch (19 mm) but not more than l'/ 4
inches (32 mm) shall be provided on stairways with
solid risers. The greatest nosing projection shall not
exceed the smallest nosing projection by more than 3 / 8
inch (9.5 mm) between two stories, including the nos-
ing at the level of floors and landings. Beveling of nos-
ings shall not exceed 7 2 inch (12.7 mm).
Exception: A nosing is not required where the tread
depth is a minimum of 1 1 inches (279 mm).
R311.7.5.4 Exterior wood/plastic composite stair
treads. Wood/plastic composite stair treads shall com-
ply with the provisions of Section R507.3.
R311.7.6 Landings for stairways. There shall be a floor |
or landing at the top and bottom of each stairway. The
minimum width perpendicular to the direction of travel
shall be no less than the width of the flight served. Land-
ings of shapes other than square or rectangular shall be
permitted provided the depth at the walk line and the total
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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area is not less than that of a quarter circle with a radius
equal to the required landing width. Where the stairway
has a straight run, the minimum depth in the direction of
travel shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm).
Exception: A floor or landing is not required at the top
of an interior flight of stairs, including stairs in an
enclosed garage, provided a door does not swing over
the stairs.
R31 1.7.7 Stairway walking surface. The walking surface
of treads and landings of stairways shall be sloped no
steeper than one unit vertical in 48 inches horizontal (2-
percent slope).
R311.7.8 Handrails. Handrails shall be provided on at
least one side of each continuous run of treads or flight
with four or more risers.
R31 1.7.8.1 Height. Handrail height, measured verti-
cally from the sloped plane adjoining the tread nosing,
or finish surface of ramp slope, shall be not less than 34
inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches (965
mm).
Exceptions:
1 . The use of a volute, turnout or starting easing
shall be allowed over the lowest tread.
2. When handrail fittings or bendings are used to
provide continuous transition between flights,
transitions at winder treads, the transition from
handrail to guardrail, or used at the start of a
flight, the handrail height at the fittings or
bendings shall be permitted to exceed the
maximum height.
R3 11.7.8.2 Continuity. Handrails for stairways shall
be continuous for the full length of the flight, from a
point directly above the top riser of the flight to a point
directly above the lowest riser of the flight. Handrail
ends shall be returned or shall terminate in newel posts
or safety terminals. Handrails adjacent to a wall shall
have a space of not less than 1 V 2 inch (38 mm) between
the wall and the handrails.
Exceptions:
1. Handrails shall be permitted to be interrupted
by a newel post at the turn.
2. The use of a volute, turnout, starting easing or
starting newel shall be allowed over the lowest
tread.
R31 1.7.8.3 Grip-size. All required handrails shall be of
one of the following types or provide equivalent grasp-
ability.
1. Type 1. Handrails with a circular cross section
shall have an outside diameter of at least 1 V 4
inches (32 mm) and not greater than 2 inches (51
mm). If the handrail is not circular, it shall have a
perimeter dimension of at least 4 inches (102
mm) and not greater than 6'/ 4 inches (160 mm)
with a maximum cross section of dimension of
2'/ 4 inches (57 mm). Edges shall have a minimum
radius of 0.01 inch (0.25 mm).
2. Type II. Handrails with a perimeter greater than
6'/ 4 inches (160 mm) shall have a graspable fin-
ger recess area on both sides of the profile. The
finger recess shall begin within a distance of 3 / 4
inch (19 mm) measured vertically from the tallest
portion of the profile and achieve a depth of at
least 5 / 16 inch (8 mm) within 7 / 8 inch (22 mm)
below the widest portion of the profile. This
required depth shall continue for at least 3 / 8 inch
(10 mm) to a level that is not less than l 3 / 4 inches
(45 mm) below the tallest portion of the profile.
The minimum width of the handrail above the
recess shall be 1 7 4 inches (32 mm) to a maximum
of 2 3 / 4 inches (70 mm). Edges shall have a mini-
mum radius of 0.01 inch (0.25 mm).
R31 1.7.8.4 Exterior wood/plastic composite hand-
rails. Wood/plastic composite handrails shall comply
with the provisions of Section R507.3.
R31 1.7.9 Illumination. All stairs shall be provided with
illumination in accordance with Section R303.6.
R311.7.10 Special stairways. Spiral stairways and bulk-
head enclosure stairways shall comply with all require-
ments of Section R3 1 1 .7 except as specified below.
R311.7.10.1 Spiral stairways. Spiral stairways are
permitted, provided the minimum clear width at and
below the handrail shall be 26 inches (660 mm) with
each tread having a 7'/ 2 -inch (190 mm) minimum tread
depth at 12 inches (914 mm) from the narrower edge.
All treads shall be identical, and the rise shall be no
more than 9'/ 2 inches (241 mm). A minimum headroom
of 6 feet 6 inches (1982 mm) shall be provided.
R311.7.10.2 Bulkhead enclosure stairways. Stair-
ways serving bulkhead enclosures, not part of the
required building egress, providing access from the out-
side grade level to the basement shall be exempt from
the requirements of Sections R311.3 and R311.7 where
the maximum height from the basement finished floor
level to grade adjacent to the stairway does not exceed
8 feet (2438 mm) and the grade level opening to the
stairway is covered by a bulkhead enclosure with
hinged doors or other approved means.
R311.8 Ramps.
R31 1.8.1 Maximum slope. Ramps shall have a maximum
slope of 1 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8.3-percent
slope).
Exception: Where it is technically infeasible to comply
because of site constraints, ramps may have a maxi-
mum slope of one unit vertical in eight horizontal
(12.5-percent slope).
R311.8.2 Landings required. A minimum 3-foot-by-3-
foot (914 mm by 914 mm) landing shall be provided:
1 . At the top and bottom of ramps.
2. Where doors open onto ramps.
3. Where ramps change direction.
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R311.8.3 Handrails required. Handrails shall be pro-
vided on at least one side of all ramps exceeding a slope of
one unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8.33-percent
slope).
R31 1.8.3.1 Height. Handrail height, measured above
the finished surface of the ramp slope, shall be not less
than 34 inches (864 mm) and not more than 38 inches
(965 mm).
R31 1.8.3.2 Grip size. Handrails on ramps shall comply
with Section R31 1.7.8.3.
R3 11.8.3.3 Continuity. Handrails where required on
ramps shall be continuous for the full length of the
ramp. Handrail ends shall be returned or shall terminate
in newel posts or safety terminals. Handrails adjacent
to a wall shall have a space of not less than 1 V 2 inches
(38 mm) between the wall and the handrails.
SECTION R31 2
GUARDS AND WINDOW FALL PROTECTION
R312.1 Guards. Guards shall be provided in accordance with
Sections R312.1.1 through R312.1.4.
R312.1.1 Where required. Guards shall be located along
open-sided walking surfaces, including stairs, ramps and
landings, that are located more than 30 inches (762 mm)
measured vertically to the floor or grade below at any
point within 36 inches (914 mm) horizontally to the edge
of the open side. Insect screening shall not be considered
as a guard.
R312.1.2 Height. Required guards at open-sided walking
surfaces, including stairs, porches, balconies or landings,
shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) high measured
vertically above the adjacent walking surface, adjacent
fixed seating or the line connecting the leading edges of
the treads.
Exceptions:
1. Guards on the open sides of stairs shall have a
height not less than 34 inches (864 mm) mea-
sured vertically from a line connecting the lead-
ing edges of the treads.
2. Where the top of the guard also serves as a hand-
rail on the open sides of stairs, the top of the
guard shall not be less than 34 inches (864 mm)
and not more than 38 inches (965 mm) measured
vertically from a line connecting the leading
edges of the treads.
R312.1.3 Opening limitations. Required guards shall not
have openings from the walking surface to the required
guard height which allow passage of a sphere 4 inches
(102 mm) in diameter.
Exceptions:
1 . The triangular openings at the open side of stair,
formed by the riser, tread and bottom rail of a
guard, shall not allow passage of a sphere 6
inches (153 mm) in diameter.
2. Guards on the open side of stairs shall not have
openings which allow passage of a sphere 4 3 / 8
inches (111 mm) in diameter.
R312.1.4 Exterior woodplastic composite guards.
Woodplastic composite guards shall comply with the pro-
visions of Section R317.4.
R312.2 Window fall protection. Window fall protection
shall be provided in accordance with Sections R312.2.1 and
R312.2.2.
R312.2.1 Window sills. In dwelling units, where the
opening of an operable window is located more than 72
inches (1829 mm) above the finished grade or surface
below, the lowest part of the clear opening of the window
shall be a minimum of 24 inches (610 mm) above the
fininshed floor of the room in which the window is
located. Operable sections of windows shall not permit
openings that allow passage of a 4-inch-diameter (102
mm) sphere where such openings are located within 24
inches (610 mm) of the finished floor.
Exceptions:
1. Windows whose openings will not allow a 4-
inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere to pass through
the opening when the opening is in its largest
opened position.
2. Openings that are provided with window fall pre-
vention devices that comply with ASTM F 2090.
3. Windows that are provided with window opening
control devices that comply with Section
R312.2.2.
R312.2.2 Window opening control devices. Window
opening control devices shall comply with ASTM F 2090.
The window opening control device, after operation to
release the control device allowing the window to fully
open, shall not reduce the minimum net clear opening area
of the window unit to less than the area required by Sec-
tion R31 0.1.1.
SECTION R313
AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
R313.1 Townhouse automatic fire sprinkler systems. An
automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall be installed
in townhouses.
Exception: An automatic residential fire sprinkler system
shall not be required when additions or alterations are
made to existing townhouses that do not have an automatic
residential fire sprinkler system installed.
R313.1.1 Design and installation. Automatic residential
fire sprinkler systems for townhouses shall be designed
and installed in accordance with Section P2904.
R313.2 One- and two-family dwellings automatic fire sys-
tems. An automatic residential fire sprinkler system shall be
installed in one- and two-family dwellings.
Exception: An automatic residential fire sprinkler system
shall not be required for additions or alterations to exist-
**
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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ing buildings that are not already provided with an auto-
matic residential sprinkler system.
R313.2.1 Design and installation. Automatic residential
fire sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in
accordance with Section P2904 or NFPA 13D.
SECTION R314
SMOKE ALARMS
R314.1 Smoke detection and notification. All smoke
alarms shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 217
and installed in accordance with the provisions of this code
and the household fire warning equipment provisions of
NFPA 72.
R314.2 Smoke detection systems. Household fire alarm sys-
tems installed in accordance with NFPA 72 that include
smoke alarms, or a combination of smoke detector and audi-
ble notification device installed as required by this section for
smoke alarms, shall be permitted. The household fire alarm
system shall provide the same level of smoke detection and
alarm as required by this section for smoke alarms. Where a
household fire warning system is installed using a combina-
tion of smoke detector and audible notification device(s), it
shall become a permanent fixture of the occupancy and
owned by the homeowner. The system shall be monitored by
an approved supervising station and be maintained in accor-
dance with NFPA 72.
Exception: Where smoke alarms are provided meeting the
requirements of Section R314.4.
R314.3 Location. Smoke alarms shall be installed in the fol-
lowing locations:
1 . In each sleeping room.
2. Outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate
vicinity of the bedrooms.
3. On each additional story of the dwelling, including
basements and habitable attics but not including crawl
spaces and uninhabitable attics. In dwellings or dwell-
ing units with split levels and without an intervening
door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm
installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent
lower level provided that the lower level is less than
one full story below the upper level.
R314.3.1 Alterations, repairs and additions. When
alterations, repairs or additions requiring a permit occur,
or when one or more sleeping rooms are added or created
in existing dwellings, the individual dwelling unit shall be
equipped with smoke alarms located as required for new
dwellings.
Exceptions:
1. Work involving the exterior surfaces of dwell-
ings, such as the replacement of roofing or siding,
or the addition or replacement of windows or
doors, or the addition of a porch or deck, are
exempt from the requirements of this section.
2. Installation, alteration or repairs of plumbing or
mechanical systems are exempt from the require-
ments of this section.
R314.4 Power source. Smoke alarms shall receive their pri-
mary power from the building wiring when such wiring is
served from a commercial source, and when primary power is
interrupted, shall receive power from a battery. Wiring shall
be permanent and without a disconnecting switch other than
those required for overcurrent protection.
Exceptions:
1 . Smoke alarms shall be permitted to be battery oper-
ated when installed in buildings without commercial
power.
2. Hard wiring of smoke alarms in existing areas shall
not be required where the alterations or repairs do
not result in the removal of interior wall or ceiling
finishes exposing the structure, unless there is an
attic, crawl space or basement available which could
provide access for hard wiring without the removal
of interior finishes.
R314.5 Interconnection. Where more than one smoke alarm
is required to be installed within an individual dwelling unit
in accordance with Section R314.3, the alarm devices shall be
interconnected in such a manner that the actuation of one
alarm will activate all of the alarms in the individual unit.
Physical interconnection of smoke alarms shall not be
required where listed wireless alarms are installed and all
alarms sound upon activation of one alarm.
Exception: Interconnection of smoke alarms in existing
areas shall not be required where alterations or repairs do
not result in removal of interior wall or ceiling finishes
exposing the structure, unless there is an attic, crawl space
or basement available which could provide access for
interconnection without the removal of interior finishes.
SECTION R315
CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS
R3I5.1 Carbon monoxide alarms. For new construction, an
approved carbon monoxide alarm shall be installed outside of
each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the
bedrooms in dwelling units within which fuel-fired appli-
ances are installed and in dwelling units that have attached
garages.
R315.2 Carbon monoxide detection systems. Carbon mon-
oxide detection systems that include carbon monoxide detec-
tors and audible notification appliances, installed and
maintained in accordance with this section for carbon monox-
ide alarms and NFPA 720, shall be permitted. The carbon
monoxide detectors shall be listed as complying with UL
2075. Where a household carbon monoxide detection system
is installed, it shall become a permanent fixture of the occu-
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
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BUILDING PLANNING
pancy, owned by the homeowner and shall be monitored by
an approved supervising station.
Exception: Where carbon monoxide alarms are installed
meeting the requirements of Section R315.1, compliance
with Section 3 15.2 is not required.
R315.3 Where required in existing dwellings. Where work
requiring a permit occurs in existing dwellings that have
attached garages or in existing dwellings within which fuel-
fired appliances exist, carbon monoxide alarms shall be pro-
vided in accordance with Section R315.1.
| R315.4 Alarm requirements. Single-station carbon monox-
ide alarms shall be listed as complying with UL 2034 and
shall be installed in accordance with this code and the manu-
facturer's installation instructions.
SECTION R316
FOAM PLASTIC
R316.1 General. The provisions of this section shall govern
the materials, design, application, construction and installa-
tion of foam plastic materials.
R316.2 Labeling and identification. Packages and contain-
ers of foam plastic insulation and foam plastic insulation
components delivered to the job site shall bear the label of an
approved agency showing the manufacturer's name, the
product listing, product identification and information suffi-
cient to determine that the end use will comply with the
requirements.
R316.3 Surface burning characteristics. Unless otherwise
allowed in Section R316.5 or R316.6, all foam plastic or
foam plastic cores used as a component in manufactured
assemblies used in building construction shall have a flame
spread index of not more than 75 and shall have a smoke-
developed index of not more than 450 when tested in the
maximum thickness intended for use in accordance with
ASTM E 84 or UL 723. Loose-fill-type foam plastic insula-
tion shall be tested as board stock for the flame spread index
and smoke-developed index.
Exception: Foam plastic insulation more than 4 inches
(102 mm) thick shall have a maximum flame spread index
of 75 and a smoke-developed index of 450 where tested at
a minimum thickness of 4 inches (102 mm), provided the
end use is approved in accordance with Section R316.6
using the thickness and density intended for use.
R316.4 Thermal barrier. Unless otherwise allowed in Sec-
tion R316.5 or Section R316.6, foam plastic shall be sepa-
rated from the interior of a building by an approved thermal
barrier of minimum 7 2 inch (12.7 mm) gypsum wallboard or
a material that is tested in accordance with and meets the
acceptance criteria of both the Temperature Transmission
Fire Test and the Integrity Fire Test of NFPA 275.
R316.5 Specific requirements. The following requirements
shall apply to these uses of foam plastic unless specifically
approved in accordance with Section R316.6 or by other sec-
tions of the code or the requirements of Sections R316.2
through R316.4 have been met.
R316.5.1 Masonry or concrete construction. The ther-
mal barrier specified in Section R316.4 is not required in a
masonry or concrete wall, floor or roof when the foam
plastic insulation is separated from the interior of the
building by a minimum 1-inch (25 mm) thickness of
masonry or concrete.
R316.5.2 Roofing. The thermal barrier specified in Sec-
tion R316.4 is not required when the foam plastic in a roof
assembly or under a roof covering is installed in accor-
dance with the code and the manufacturer's installation
instructions and is separated from the interior of the build-
ing by tongue-and-groove wood planks or wood structural
panel sheathing in accordance with Section R803, not less
than 15 / 32 inch (11.9 mm) thick bonded with exterior glue
and identified as Exposure 1, with edges supported by
blocking or tongue-and-groove joints or an equivalent
material. The smoke-developed index for roof applications
shall not be limited.
R3 16.5.3 Attics. The thermal barrier specified in Section
R316.4 is not required where all of the following apply:
1. Attic access is required by Section R807. 1 .
2. The space is entered only for purposes of repairs or
maintenance.
3. The foam plastic insulation is protected against igni-
tion using one of the following ignition barrier mate-
rials:
3.1. lV 2 -inch-thick (38 mm) mineral fiber insula-
tion;
3.2. V 4 -inch-thick (6.4 mm) wood structural pan-
els;
3.3. 3 / 8 -inch (9.5 mm) particleboard;
3.4. 7 4 -inch (6.4 mm) hardboard;
3.5. 3 / 8 -inch (9.5 mm) gypsum board; or
3.6. Corrosion-resistant steel having a base metal
thickness of 0.016 inch (0.406 mm);
3.7. 1 7,-inch-thick (38 mm) cellulose insulation.
The above ignition barrier is not required where the
foam plastic insulation has been tested in accordance with
Section R3 16.6.
R316.5.4 Crawl spaces. The thermal barrier specified in
Section R316.4 is not required where all of the following
apply:
1. Crawlspace access is required by Section R408.4
2. Entry is made only for purposes of repairs or main-
tenance.
3. The foam plastic insulation is protected against igni-
tion using one of the following ignition barrier mate-
rials:
3.1. 1 '/-.-inch-thick (38 mm) mineral fiber insula-
tion;
3.2. 7 4 -inch-thick (6.4 mm) wood structural pan-
els;
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
BUILDING PLANNING
3.3. 3 / 8 -inch (9.5 mm) particleboard;
3.4. 7 4 -inch (6.4 mm) hardboard;
3.5. V 8 -inch (9.5 mm) gypsum board; or
3.6. Corrosion-resistant steel having a base metal
thickness of 0.016 inch (0.406 mm).
The above ignition barrier is not required where the
foam plastic insulation has been tested in accordance with
Section R3 16. 6.
R316.5.5 Foam-filled exterior doors. Foam-filled exte-
rior doors are exempt from the requirements of Sections
R3 16.3 and R3 16.4.
R316.5.6 Foam-filled garage doors. Foam-filled garage
doors in attached or detached garages are exempt from the
requirements of Sections R316.3 and R316.4.
R316.5.7 Foam backer board. The thermal barrier speci-
fied in Section R316.4 is not required where siding backer
board foam plastic insulation has a maximum thickness of
0.5 inch (12.7 mm) and a potential heat of not more than
2000 Btu per square foot (22 720 kJ/m 2 ) when tested in
accordance with NFPA 259 provided that:
1. The foam plastic insulation is separated from the
interior of the building by not less than 2 inches (51
mm) of mineral fiber insulation;
2. The foam plastic insulation is installed over existing
exterior wall finish in conjunction with re-siding; or
3. The foam plastic insulation has been tested in accor-
dance with Section R316.6.
R316.5.8 Re-siding. The thermal barrier specified in Sec-
tion R316.4 is not required where the foam plastic insula-
tion is installed over existing exterior wall finish in
conjunction with re-siding provided the foam plastic has a
maximum thickness of 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) and a potential
heat of not more than 2000 Btu per square foot (22 720 Id/
m 2 ) when tested in accordance with NFPA 259.
R316.5.9 Interior trim. The thermal barrier specified in
Section R316.4 is not required for exposed foam plastic
interior trim, provided all of the following are met:
1. The minimum density is 20 pounds per cubic foot
(320 kg/m 3 ).
2. The maximum thickness of the trim is 0.5 inch (12.7
mm) and the maximum width is 8 inches (204 mm).
3. The interior trim shall not constitute more than 10
percent of the aggregate wall and ceiling area of any
room or space.
4. The flame spread index does not exceed 75 when
tested per ASTM E 84 or UL 723. The smoke-devel-
oped index is not limited.
R316.5.10 Interior finish. Foam plastics shall be permit-
ted as interior finish where approved in accordance with
Section R316.6 Foam plastics that are used as interior fin-
ish shall also meet the flame spread index and smoke-
developed index requirements of Sections R302.9.1 and
R302.9.2.
R316.5.11 Sill plates and headers. Foam plastic shall be
permitted to be spray applied to a sill plate and header
without the thermal barrier specified in Section R316.4
subject to all of the following:
1 . The maximum thickness of the foam plastic shall be
3'/ 4 inches (83 mm).
2. The density of the foam plastic shall be in the range
of 0.5 to 2.0 pounds per cubic foot (8 to 32 kg/m 3 ).
3. The foam plastic shall have a flame spread index of
25 or less and an accompanying smoke-developed
index of 450 or less when tested in accordance with
ASTM E 84 or UL 723.
R316.5.12 Sheathing. Foam plastic insulation used as
sheathing shall comply with Section R316.3 and Section
R316.4. Where the foam plastic sheathing is exposed to
the attic space at a gable or kneewall, the provisions of
Section R31 6.5.3 shall apply.
R316.5.13 Floors. The thermal barrier specified in Sec-
tion R316.4 is not required to be installed on the walking
surface of a structural floor system that contains foam
plastic insulation when the foam plastic is covered by a
minimum nominal 7 2 -inch-thick (12.7 mm) wood struc-
tural panel or equivalent. The thermal barrier specified in
Section R3 1 6.4 is required on the underside of the struc-
tural floor system that contains foam plastic insulation
when the underside of the structural floor system is
exposed to the interior of the building.
R316.6 Specific approval. Foam plastic not meeting the
requirements of Sections R316.3 through R316.5 shall be
specifically approved on the basis of one of the following
approved tests: NFPA 286 with the acceptance criteria of
Section R302.9.4, FM4880, UL 1040, or UL 1715, or fire
tests related to actual end-use configurations. Approval shall
be based on the actual end use configuration and shall be per-
formed on the finished foam plastic assembly in the maxi-
mum thickness intended for use. Assemblies tested shall
include seams, joints and other typical details used in the
installation of the assembly and shall be tested in the manner
intended for use.
R316.7 Termite damage. The use of foam plastics in areas
of "very heavy" termite infestation probability shall be in
accordance with Section R318.4.
SECTION R317
PROTECTION OF WOOD AND WOOD BASED
PRODUCTS AGAINST DECAY
R317.1 Location required. Protection of wood and wood
based products from decay shall be provided in the following
locations by the use of naturally durable wood or wood that is
preservative-treated in accordance with AWPA Ul for the
species, product, preservative and end use. Preservatives shall
be listed in Section 4 of AWPA U 1 .
1. Wood joists or the bottom of a wood structural floor
when closer than 18 inches (457 mm) or wood girders
when closer than 12 inches (305 mm) to the exposed
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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BUILDING PLANNING
ground in crawl spaces or unexcavated area located
within the periphery of the building foundation.
2. All wood framing members that rest on concrete or
masonry exterior foundation walls and are less than 8
inches (203 mm) from the exposed ground.
3. Sills and sleepers on a concrete or masonry slab that is
in direct contact with the ground unless separated from
such slab by an impervious moisture barrier.
4. The ends of wood girders entering exterior masonry or
concrete walls having clearances of less than V 2 inch
(12.7 mm) on tops, sides and ends.
5. Wood siding, sheathing and wall framing on the exte-
rior of a building having a clearance of less than 6
inches (152 mm) from the ground or less than 2 inches
(51 mm) measured vertically from concrete steps,
porch slabs, patio slabs, and similar horizontal surfaces
exposed to the weather.
6. Wood structural members supporting moisture-perme-
able floors or roofs that are exposed to the weather,
such as concrete or masonry slabs, unless separated
from such floors or roofs by an impervious moisture
barrier.
7. Wood furring strips or other wood framing members
attached directly to the interior of exterior masonry
walls or concrete walls below grade except where an
approved vapor retarder is applied between the wall
and the furring strips or framing members.
R317.1.1 Field treatment. Field-cut ends, notches and
drilled holes of preservative-treated wood shall be treated
in the field in accordance with AWPA M4.
R317.1.2 Ground contact. All wood in contact with the
ground, embedded in concrete in direct contact with the
ground or embedded in concrete exposed to the weather
that supports permanent structures intended for human
occupancy shall be approved pressure-preservative-treated
wood suitable for ground contact use, except untreated
wood may be used where entirely below groundwater
level or continuously submerged in fresh water.
R317.1.3 Geographical areas. In geographical areas
where experience has demonstrated a specific need,
approved naturally durable or pressure-preservative-
treated wood shall be used for those portions of wood
members that form the structural supports of buildings,
balconies, porches or similar permanent building appurte-
nances when those members are exposed to the weather
without adequate protection from a roof, eave, overhang or
other covering that would prevent moisture or water accu-
mulation on the surface or at joints between members.
Depending on local experience, such members may
include:
1 . Horizontal members such as girders, joists and deck-
ing.
2. Vertical members such as posts, poles and columns.
3. Both horizontal and vertical members.
R317.1.4 Wood columns. Wood columns shall be
approved wood of natural decay resistance or approved
pressure-preservative-treated wood.
Exceptions:
1 . Columns exposed to the weather or in basements
when supported by concrete piers or metal pedes-
tals projecting 1 inch (25.4 mm) above a concrete
floor or 6 inches (152 mm) above exposed earth
and the earth is covered by an approved impervi-
ous moisture barrier.
2. Columns in enclosed crawl spaces or unexca-
vated areas located within the periphery of the
building when supported by a concrete pier or
metal pedestal at a height more than 8 inches
(203 mm) from exposed earth and the earth is
covered by an impervious moisture barrier.
R317.1.5 Exposed glued-laminated timbers. The por-
tions of glued-laminated timbers that form the structural
supports of a building or other structure and are exposed to
weather and not properly protected by a roof, eave or sim-
ilar covering shall be pressure treated with preservative, or
be manufactured from naturally durable or preservative-
treated wood.
R317.2 Quality mark. Lumber and plywood required to be
pressure-preservative-treated in accordance with Section
R318.1 shall bear the quality mark of an approved inspection
agency that maintains continuing supervision, testing and
inspection over the quality of the product and that has been
approved by an accreditation body that complies with the
requirements of the American Lumber Standard Committee
treated wood program.
R31 7.2.1 Required information. The required quality
mark on each piece of pressure-preservative-treated lum-
ber or plywood shall contain the following information:
1. Identification of the treating plant.
2. Type of preservative.
3. The minimum preservative retention.
4. End use for which the product was treated.
5. Standard to which the product was treated.
6. Identity of the approved inspection agency.
7. The designation "Dry," if applicable.
Exception: Quality marks on lumber less than 1 inch
(25.4 mm) nominal thickness, or lumber less than nom-
inal 1 inch by 5 inches (25.4 mm by 127 mm) or 2
inches by 4 inches (51 mm by 102 mm) or lumber 36
inches (914 mm) or less in length shall be applied by
stamping the faces of exterior pieces or by end labeling
not less than 25 percent of the pieces of a bundled unit.
R317.3 Fasteners and connectors in contact with preser-
vative-treated and fire-retardant-treated wood. Fasteners,
including nuts and washers, and connectors in contact with
preservative-treated wood and fire-retardant-treated wood
shall be in accordance with this section. The coating weights
for zinc-coated fasteners shall be in accordance with ASTM
A 153.
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R3 17.3.1 Fasteners for preservative-treated wood. Fas-
teners, including nuts and washers, for preservative-
treated wood shall be of hot-dipped, zinc-coated galva-
nized steel, stainless steel, silicon bronze or copper. Coat-
ing types and weights for connectors in contact with
preservative-treated wood shall be in accordance with the
connector manufacturer's recommendations. In the
absence of manufacturer's recommendations, a minimum
of ASTM A 653 type G185 zinc -coated galvanized steel,
or equivalent, shall be used.
Exceptions:
1. One-half-inch-diameter (12.7 mm) or greater
steel bolts.
2. Fasteners other than nails and timber rivets shall
be permitted to be of mechanically deposited
zinc-coated steel with coating weights in accor-
dance with ASTM B 695, Class 55 minimum.
3. Plain carbon steel fasteners in SBX/DOT and
zinc borate preservative-treated wood in an inte-
rior, dry environment shall be permitted.
R317.3.2 Fastenings for wood foundations. Fastenings,
including nuts and washers, for wood foundations shall be
as required in AF&PA PWF.
R317.3.3 Fasteners for fire-retardant-treated wood
used in exterior applications or wet or damp locations.
Fasteners, including nuts and washers, for fire-retardant-
treated wood used in exterior applications or wet or damp
locations shall be of hot-dipped, zinc-coated galvanized
steel, stainless steel, silicon bronze or copper. Fasteners
other than nails and timber rivets shall be permitted to be
of mechanically deposited zinc-coated steel with coating
weights in accordance with ASTM B 695, Class 55 mini-
mum.
R317.3.4 Fasteners for fire-retardant-treated wood
used in interior applications. Fasteners, including nuts
and washers, for fire-retardant-treated wood used in inte-
rior locations shall be in accordance with the manufac-
turer's recommendations. In the absence of the
manufacturer's recommendations, Section R3 17.3.3 shall
apply.
R317.4 Wood/plastic composites. Wood/plastic composites
used in exterior deck boards, stair treads, handrails and
guardrail systems shall bear a label indicating the required
performance levels and demonstrating compliance with the
provisions of ASTM D 7032.
R317.4.1 Labeling. Deck boards and stair treads shall
bear a label that indicates compliance to ASTM D 7032
and includes the allowable load and maximum allowable
span. Handrails and guardrail systems or their packaging
shall bear a label that indicates compliance to ASTM D
7032 and includes the maximum allowable span.
R317.4.2 Installation. Wood/plastic composites shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
SECTION R318
PROTECTION AGAINST SUBTERRANEAN
TERMITES
R318.1 Subterranean termite control methods. In areas
subject to damage from termites as indicated by Table
R30 1.2(1), methods of protection shall be one of the follow-
ing methods or a combination of these methods:
1. Chemical termiticide treatment, as provided in Section
R318.2.
2. Termite baiting system installed and maintained
according to the label.
3. Pressure-preservative-treated wood in accordance with
the provisions of Section R317.1 .
4. Naturally durable termite-resistant wood.
5. Physical barriers as provided in Section R318.3 and
used in locations as specified in Section R317.1.
6. Cold-formed steel framing in accordance with Sections
R505.2.1andR603.2.1.
R318.1.1 Quality mark. Lumber and plywood required to
be pressure-preservative-treated in accordance with Sec-
tion R318.1 shall bear the quality mark of an approved
inspection agency which maintains continuing supervi-
sion, testing and inspection over the quality of the product
and which has been approved by an accreditation body
which complies with the requirements of the American
Lumber Standard Committee treated wood program.
R318.1.2 Field treatment. Field-cut ends, notches, and
drilled holes of pressure-preservative-treated wood shall
be retreated in the field in accordance with AWPA M4.
R318.2 Chemical termiticide treatment. Chemical termiti-
cide treatment shall include soil treatment and/or field
applied wood treatment. The concentration, rate of applica-
tion and method of treatment of the chemical termiticide shall
be in strict accordance with the termiticide label.
R318.3 Barriers. Approved physical barriers, such as metal
or plastic sheeting or collars specifically designed for termite
prevention, shall be installed in a manner to prevent termites
from entering the structure. Shields placed on top of an exte-
rior foundation wall are permitted to be used only if in combi-
nation with another method of protection.
R318.4 Foam plastic protection. In areas where the proba-
bility of termite infestation is "very heavy" as indicated in
Figure R301.2(6), extruded and expanded polystyrene, poly-
isocyanurate and other foam plastics shall not be installed on
the exterior face or under interior or exterior foundation walls
or slab foundations located below grade. The clearance
between foam plastics installed above grade and exposed
earth shall be at least 6 inches (152 mm).
Exceptions:
1. Buildings where the structural members of walls,
floors, ceilings and roofs are entirely of noncombus-
tible materials or pressure-preservative-treated
wood.
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2. When in addition to the requirements of Section
R318.1, an approved method of protecting the foam
plastic and structure from subterranean termite dam-
age is used.
3. On the interior side of basement walls.
SECTION R319
SITE ADDRESS
R319.1 Address numbers. Buildings shall have approved
address numbers, building numbers or approved building
identification placed in a position that is plainly legible and
visible from the street or road fronting the property. These
numbers shall contrast with their background. Address num-
bers shall be Arabic numbers or alphabetical letters. Numbers
shall be a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) high with a mini-
mum stroke width of 7 2 inch (12.7 mm). Where access is by
means of a private road and the building address cannot be
viewed from the public way, a monument, pole or other sign
or means shall be used to identify the structure.
SECTION R320
ACCESSIBILITY
R320.1 Scope. Where there are four or more dwelling units
or sleeping units in a single structure, the provisions of Chap-
ter 1 1 of the International Building Code for Group R-3 shall
apply.
SECTION R321
ELEVATORS AND PLATFORM LIFTS
R321.1 Elevators. Where provided, passenger elevators, lim-
ited-use/limited-application elevators or private residence
elevators shall comply with ASME A17.1.
R321.2 Platform lifts. Where provided, platform lifts shall
comply with ASME A18.1 .
R321.3 Accessibility. Elevators or platform lifts that are part
of an accessible route required by Chapter 1 1 of the Interna-
tional Building Code, shall comply with ICC Al 17.1.
SECTION R322
FLOOD-RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION
R322.1 General. Buildings and structures constructed in
whole or in part in flood hazard areas (including A or V
Zones) as established in Table R301.2(l) shall be designed
and constructed in accordance with the provisions contained
in this section. Buildings and structures located in whole or in
part in identified floodways shall be designed and constructed
in accordance with ASCE 24.
R322.1.1 Alternative provisions. As an alternative to the
requirements in Section R322.3 for buildings and struc-
tures located in whole or in part in coastal high-hazard
areas (V Zones) and Coastal A Zones, if delineated, ASCE
24 is permitted subject to the limitations of this code and
the limitations therein.
R322.1.2 Structural systems. All structural systems of all
buildings and structures shall be designed, connected and
anchored to resist flotation, collapse or permanent lateral
movement due to structural loads and stresses from flood-
ing equal to the design flood elevation.
R322.1.3 Flood-resistant construction. All buildings and
structures erected in areas prone to flooding shall be con-
structed by methods and practices that minimize flood
damage.
R322.1.4 Establishing the design flood elevation. The
design flood elevation shall be used to define flood hazard
areas. At a minimum, the design flood elevation is the
higher of:
1. The base flood elevation at the depth of peak eleva-
tion of flooding (including wave height) which has a
1 percent (100-year flood) or greater chance of
being equaled or exceeded in any given year; or
2. The elevation of the design flood associated with the
area designated on a flood hazard map adopted by
the community, or otherwise legally designated.
R322. 1.4.1 Determination of design flood elevations.
If design flood elevations are not specified, the building
official is authorized to require the applicant to:
1 . Obtain and reasonably use data available from a
federal, state or other source; or
2. Determine the design flood elevation in accor-
dance with accepted hydrologic and hydraulic
engineering practices used to define special flood
hazard areas. Determinations shall be undertaken
by a registered design professional who shall
document that the technical methods used reflect
currently accepted engineering practice. Studies,
analyses and computations shall be submitted in
sufficient detail to allow thorough review and
approval.
R322.1.4.2 Determination of impacts. In riverine
flood hazard areas where design flood elevations are
specified but floodways have not been designated, the
applicant shall demonstrate that the effect of the pro-
posed buildings and structures on design flood eleva-
tions, including fill, when combined with all other
existing and anticipated flood hazard area encroach-
ments, will not increase the design flood elevation
more than 1 foot (305 mm) at any point within the juris-
diction.
R322.1.5 Lowest floor. The lowest floor shall be the floor
of the lowest enclosed area, including basement, but
excluding any unfinished flood-resistant enclosure that is
useable solely for vehicle parking, building access or lim-
ited storage provided that such enclosure is not built so as
to render the building or structure in violation of this sec-
tion.
R322.1.6 Protection of mechanical and electrical sys-
tems. Electrical systems, equipment and components;
heating, ventilating, air conditioning; plumbing appliances
and plumbing fixtures; duct systems; and other service
equipment shall be located at or above the elevation
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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required in Section R322.2 (flood hazard areas including
A Zones) or R322.3 (coastal high-hazard areas including
V Zones). If replaced as part of a substantia] improvement,
electrical systems, equipment and components; heating,
ventilating, air conditioning and plumbing appliances and
plumbing fixtures; duct systems; and other service equip-
ment shall meet the requirements of this section. Systems,
fixtures, and equipment and components shall not be
mounted on or penetrate through walls intended to break
away under flood loads.
Exception: Locating electrical systems, equipment and
components; heating, ventilating, air conditioning;
plumbing appliances and plumbing fixtures; duct sys-
tems; and other service equipment is permitted below
the elevation required in Section R322.2 (flood hazard
areas including A Zones) or R322.3 (coastal high-haz-
ard areas including V Zones) provided that they are
designed and installed to prevent water from entering
or accumulating within the components and to resist
hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and stresses,
including the effects of buoyancy, during the occur-
rence of flooding to the design flood elevation in accor-
dance with ASCE 24. Electrical wiring systems are
permitted to be located below the required elevation
provided they conform to the provisions of the electri-
cal part of this code for wet locations.
R322.1.7 Protection of water supply and sanitary sew-
age systems. New and replacement water supply systems
shall be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of
flood waters into the systems in accordance with the
plumbing provisions of this code. New and replacement
sanitary sewage systems shall be designed to minimize or
eliminate infiltration of floodwaters into systems and dis-
charges from systems into floodwaters in accordance with
the plumbing provisions of this code and Chapter 3 of the
International Private Sewage Disposal Code.
R322.1.8 Flood-resistant materials. Building materials
used below the elevation required in Section R322.2
(flood hazard areas including A Zones) or R322.3 (coastal
high-hazard areas including V Zones) shall comply with
the following:
1. All wood, including floor sheathing, shall be pres-
sure-preservative- treated in accordance with AWPA
Ul for the species, product, preservative and end use
or be the decay-resistant heartwood of redwood,
black locust or cedars. Preservatives shall be listed
in Section 4 of AWPA Ul.
2. Materials and installation methods used for flooring
and interior and exterior walls and wall coverings
shall conform to the provisions of FEMA/FIA-TB-2.
R322.1.9 Manufactured homes. New or replacement
manufactured homes shall be elevated in accordance with
Section R322.2 (flood hazard areas including A Zones) or
Section R322.3 in coastal high-hazard areas (V Zones).
The anchor and tie-down requirements of Sections AE604
and AE605 of Appendix E shall apply. The foundation and
anchorage of manufactured homes to be located in identi-
fied floodways shall be designed and constructed in accor-
dance with ASCE 24.
R322.1.10 As-built elevation documentation. A regis-
tered design professional shall prepare and seal documen-
tation of the elevations specified in Section R322.2 or
R322.3.
R322.2 Flood hazard areas (including A Zones). All areas
that have been determined to be prone to flooding but not
subject to high-velocity wave action shall be designated as
flood hazard areas. Flood hazard areas that have been delin-
eated as subject to wave heights between lV 2 feet (457 mm)
and 3 feet (914 mm) shall be designated as Coastal A Zones.
All building and structures constructed in whole or in part in
flood hazard areas shall be designed and constructed in accor-
dance with Sections R322.2.1 through R322.2.3.
R322.2.1 Elevation requirements.
1. Buildings and structures in flood hazard areas not
designated as Coastal A Zones shall have the lowest
floors elevated to or above the design flood eleva-
tion.
2. Buildings and structures in flood hazard areas desig-
nated as Coastal A Zones shall have the lowest
floors elevated to or above the base flood elevation
plus 1 foot (305 mm), or to the design flood eleva-
tion, whichever is higher.
3. In areas of shallow flooding (AO Zones), buildings
and structures shall have the lowest floor (including
basement) elevated at least as high above the highest
adjacent grade as the depth number specified in feet
on the FIRM, or at least 2 feet (610 mm) if a depth
number is not specified.
4. Basement floors that are below grade on all sides
shall be elevated to or above the design flood eleva-
tion.
Exception: Enclosed areas below the design flood ele-
vation, including basements whose floors are not below
grade on all sides, shall meet the requirements of Sec-
tion R322.2.2.
R322.2.2 Enclosed area below design flood elevation.
Enclosed areas, including crawl spaces, that are below the
design flood elevation shall:
1. Be used solely for parking of vehicles, building
access or storage.
2. Be provided with flood openings that meet the fol-
lowing criteria:
2. 1 . There shall be a minimum of two openings
on different sides of each enclosed area; if a
building has more than one enclosed area
below the design flood elevation, each area
shall have openings on exterior walls.
2.2. The total net area of all openings shall be at
least 1 square inch (645 mm 2 ) for each
square foot (0.093 m 2 ) of enclosed area, or
the openings shall be designed and the con-
struction documents shall include a state-
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ment by a registered design professional that
the design of the openings will provide for
equalization of hydrostatic flood forces on
exterior walls by allowing for the automatic
entry and exit of floodwaters as specified in
Section 2.6.2.2 of ASCE 24.
2.3. The bottom of each opening shall be 1 foot
(305 mm) or less above the adjacent ground
level.
2.4. Openings shall be not less than 3 inches (76
mm) in any direction in the plane of the wall.
2.5. Any louvers, screens or other opening covers
shall allow the automatic flow of floodwa-
ters into and out of the enclosed area.
2.6. Openings installed in doors and windows,
that meet requirements 2.1 through 2.5, are
acceptable; however, doors and windows
without installed openings do not meet the
requirements of this section.
R322.2.3 Foundation design and construction. Founda-
tion walls for all buildings and structures erected in flood
hazard areas shall meet the requirements of Chapter 4.
Exception: Unless designed in accordance with Sec-
tion R404:
1. The unsupported height of 6-inch (152 mm) plain
masonry walls shall be no more than 3 feet (914
mm).
2. The unsupported height of 8-inch (203 mm) plain
masonry walls shall be no more than 4 feet (1219
mm).
3. The unsupported height of 8-inch (203 mm) rein-
forced masonry walls shall be no more than 8 feet
(2438 mm).
For the purpose of this exception, unsup-
ported height is the distance from the finished
grade of the under-floor space to the top of the
wall.
R322.3 Coastal high-hazard areas (including V Zones).
Areas that have been determined to be subject to wave
heights in excess of 3 feet (914 mm) or subject to high- veloc-
ity wave action or wave-induced erosion shall be designated
as coastal high-hazard areas. Buildings and structures con-
structed in whole or in part in coastal high-hazard areas shall
be designed and constructed in accordance with Sections
R322.3.1 through R322.3.6.
R322.3.1 Location and site preparation.
1 . New buildings and buildings that are determined to
be substantially improved pursuant to Section
R 105. 3. 1.1, shall be located landward of the reach of
mean high tide.
2. For any alteration of sand dunes and mangrove
stands the building official shall require submission
of an engineering analysis which demonstrates that
the proposed alteration will not increase the poten-
tial for flood damage.
R322.3.2 Elevation requirements.
1. All buildings and structures erected within coastal
high-hazard areas shall be elevated so that the low-
est portion of all structural members supporting the
lowest floor, with the exception of piling, pile caps,
columns, grade beams and bracing, is:
1.1. Located at or above the design flood eleva-
tion, if the lowest horizontal structural mem-
ber is oriented parallel to the direction of
wave approach, where parallel shall mean
less than or equal to 20 degrees (0.35 rad)
from the direction of approach, or
1 .2. Located at the base flood elevation plus 1
foot (305 mm), or the design flood elevation,
whichever is higher, if the lowest horizontal
structural member is oriented perpendicular
to the direction of wave approach, where
perpendicular shall mean greater than 20
degrees (0.35 rad) from the direction of
approach.
2. Basement floors that are below grade on all sides
are prohibited.
3. The use of fill for structural support is prohibited.
4. Minor grading, and the placement of minor quanti-
ties of fill, shall be permitted for landscaping and for
drainage purposes under and around buildings and
for support of parking slabs, pool decks, patios and
walkways.
Exception: Walls and partitions enclosing areas
below the design flood elevation shall meet the
requirements of Sections R322.3.4 and R322.3.5.
R322.3.3 Foundations. Buildings and structures erected
in coastal high-hazard areas shall be supported on pilings
or columns and shall be adequately anchored to such pil-
ings or columns. The space below the elevated building
shall be either free of obstruction or, if enclosed with
walls, the walls shall meet the requirements of Section
R322.3.4. Pilings shall have adequate soil penetrations to
resist the combined wave and wind loads (lateral and
uplift). Water-loading values used shall be those associ-
ated with the design flood. Wind-loading values shall be
those required by this code. Pile embedment shall include
consideration of decreased resistance capacity caused by
scour of soil strata surrounding the piling. Pile systems
design and installation shall be certified in accordance
with Section R322.3.6. Spread footing, mat, raft or other
foundations that support columns shall not be permitted
where soil investigations that are required in accordance
with Section R401.4 indicate that soil material under the
spread footing, mat, raft or other foundation is subject to
scour or erosion from wave-velocity flow conditions. If
permitted, spread footing, mat, raft or other foundations
that support columns shall be designed in accordance with
ASCE 24. Slabs, pools, pool decks and walkways shall be
located and constructed to be structurally independent of
buildings and structures and their foundations to prevent
transfer of flood loads to the buildings and structures dur-
ing conditions of flooding, scour or erosion from wave-
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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I velocity flow conditions, unless the buildings and struc- to other applicable requirements in this code, storm shelters
tures and their foundation are designed to resist the addi- shall be constructed in accordance with ICC/NSSA-500.
tional flood load.
R322.3.4 Walls below design flood elevation. Walls and
partitions are permitted below the elevated floor, provided
that such walls and partitions are not part of the structural
support of the building or structure and:
1. Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing system com-
ponents are not to be mounted on or penetrate
through walls that are designed to break away under
flood loads; and
2. Are constructed with insect screening or open lat-
tice; or
3. Are designed to break away or collapse without
causing collapse, displacement or other structural
damage to the elevated portion of the building or
supporting foundation system. Such walls, framing
and connections shall have a design safe loading
resistance of not less than 10 (479 Pa) and no more
than 20 pounds per square foot (958 Pa); or
4. Where wind loading values of this code exceed 20
pounds per square foot (958 Pa), the construction
documents shall include documentation prepared
and sealed by a registered design professional that:
4.1. The walls and partitions below the design
flood elevation have been designed to col-
lapse from a water load less than that which
would occur during the design flood.
4.2. The elevated portion of the building and sup-
porting foundation system have been
designed to withstand the effects of wind and
flood loads acting simultaneously on all
building components (structural and non-
structural). Water-loading values used shall
be those associated with the design flood.
Wind-loading values shall be those required
by this code.
R322.3.5 Enclosed areas below design flood elevation.
Enclosed areas below the design flood elevation shall be
used solely for parking of vehicles, building access or stor-
age.
R322.3.6 Construction documents. The construction
documents shall include documentation that is prepared
and sealed by a registered design professional that the
design and methods of construction to be used meet the
applicable criteria of this section.
SECTION R323
STORM SHELTERS
R323.1 General. This section applies to the construction of
storm shelters when constructed as separate detached build-
ings or when constructed as safe rooms within buildings for
the purpose of providing safe refuge from storms that pro-
duce high winds, such as tornados and hurricanes. In addition
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE® 71
72 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 4
FOUNDATIONS
SECTION R401
GENERAL
R401.1 Application. The provisions of this chapter shall
control the design and construction of the foundation and
foundation spaces for all buildings. In addition to the provi-
sions of this chapter, the design and construction of founda-
tions in flood hazard areas as established by Table R301.2(l)
shall meet the provisions of Section R322. Wood foundations
shall be designed and installed in accordance with AF&PA
PWF.
Exception: The provisions of this chapter shall be permit-
ted to be used for wood foundations only in the following
situations:
1 . In buildings that have no more than two floors and a
roof.
2. When interior basement and foundation walls are
constructed at intervals not exceeding 50 feet (15
240 mm).
Wood foundations in Seismic Design Category D , D, or
D 2 shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering
practice.
R401.2 Requirements. Foundation construction shall be
capable of accommodating all loads according to Section
R301 and of transmitting the resulting loads to the supporting
soil. Fill soils that support footings and foundations shall be
designed, installed and tested in accordance with accepted
engineering practice. Gravel fill used as footings for wood
and precast concrete foundations shall comply with Section
R403.
R401.3 Drainage. Surface drainage shall be diverted to a
storm sewer conveyance or other approved point of collec-
tion that does not create a hazard. Lots shall be graded to
drain surface water away from foundation walls. The grade
shall fall a minimum of 6 inches (152 mm) within the first 10
feet (3048 mm).
Exception: Where lot lines, walls, slopes or other physical
barriers prohibit 6 inches (152 mm) of fall within 10 feet
(3048 mm), drains or swales shall be constructed to ensure
drainage away from the structure. Impervious surfaces
within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the building foundation shall
be sloped a minimum of 2 percent away from the building.
R401.4 Soil tests. Where quantifiable data created by
accepted soil science methodologies indicate expansive, com-
pressible, shifting or other questionable soil characteristics
are likely to be present, the building official shall determine
whether to require a soil test to determine the soil's character-
istics at a particular location. This test shall be done by an
approved agency using an approved method.
R401.4.1 Geotechnical evaluation. In lieu of a complete
geotechnical evaluation, the load-bearing values in Table
R401.4.1 shall be assumed.
TABLE R401. 4.1
PRESUMPTIVE LOAD-BEARING VALUES OF
FOUNDATION MATERIALS 9
CLASS OF MATERIAL
LOAD-BEARING
PRESSURE
(pounds per square foot)
Crystalline bedrock
12,000
Sedimentary and foliated rock
4,000
Sandy gravel and/or gravel (GW and GP)
3,000
Sand, silty sand, clayey sand, silty gravel
and clayey gravel (S W, SP, SM, SC, GM
and GC)
2,000
Clay, sandy clay, silty clay, clayey silt, silt
and sandy silt (CL, ML, MH and CH)
1,500"
For SI: 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. When soil tests are required by Section R401..4, the allowable bearing
capacities of the soil shall be part of the recommendations.
b. Where the building official determines that in-place soils with an
allowable bearing capacity of less than 1 ,500 psf are likely to be present at
the site, the allowable bearing capacity shall be determined by a soils
investigation.
R401.4.2 Compressible or shifting soil. Instead of a
complete geotechnical evaluation, when top or subsoils
are compressible or shifting, they shall be removed to a
depth and width sufficient to assure stable moisture con-
tent in each active zone and shall not be used as fill or sta-
bilized within each active zone by chemical, dewatering or
presaturation.
SECTION R402
MATERIALS
R402.1 Wood foundations. Wood foundation systems shall
be designed and installed in accordance with the provisions
of this code.
R402.1.1 Fasteners. Fasteners used below grade to attach
plywood to the exterior side of exterior basement or crawl-
space wall studs, or fasteners used in knee wall construc-
tion, shall be of Type 304 or 316 stainless steel. Fasteners
used above grade to attach plywood and all lumber-to-
lumber fasteners except those used in knee wall construc-
tion shall be of Type 304 or 3 1 6 stainless steel, silicon
bronze, copper, hot-dipped galvanized (zinc coated) steel
nails, or hot-tumbled galvanized (zinc coated) steel nails.
Electro-galvanized steel nails and galvanized (zinc coated)
steel staples shall not be permitted.
R402.1.2 Wood treatment. All lumber and plywood shall
be pressure-preservative treated and dried after treatment
in accordance with AWPA Ul (Commodity Specification
A, Use Category 4B and Section 5.2), and shall bear the
label of an accredited agency. Where lumber and/or ply-
wood is cut or drilled after treatment, the treated surface
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73
FOUNDATIONS
shall be field treated with copper naphthenate, the concen-
tration of which shall contain a minimum of 2 percent cop-
per metal, by repeated brushing, dipping or soaking until
the wood absorbs no more preservative.
R402.2 Concrete. Concrete shall have a minimum specified
compressive strength of/' c , as shown in Table R402.2. Con-
crete subject to moderate or severe weathering as indicated in
Table R301.2(l) shall be air entrained as specified in Table
R402.2. The maximum weight of fly ash, other pozzolans,
silica fume, slag or blended cements that is included in con-
crete mixtures for garage floor slabs and for exterior porches,
carport slabs and steps that will be exposed to deicing chemi-
cals shall not exceed the percentages of the total weight of
cementitious materials specified in Section 4.2.3 of ACI 318.
Materials used to produce concrete and testing thereof shall
comply with the applicable standards listed in Chapter 3 of
ACI 318 or ACI 332.
R402.3 Precast concrete. Precast concrete foundations shall
be designed in accordance with Section R404.5 and shall be
installed in accordance with the provisions of this code and
the manufacturer's installation instructions.
R402.3.1 Precast concrete foundation materials. Mate-
rials used to produce precast concrete foundations shall
meet the following requirements.
1 . All concrete used in the manufacture of precast con-
crete foundations shall have a minimum compres-
sive strength of 5,000 psi (34 470 kPa) at 28 days.
Concrete exposed to a freezing and thawing envi-
ronment shall be air entrained with a minimum total
air content of 5 percent.
2. Structural reinforcing steel shall meet the require-
ments of ASTM A 615, A 706 or A 996. The mini-
mum yield strength of reinforcing steel shall be
40,000 psi (Grade 40) (276 MPa). Steel reinforce-
ment for precast concrete foundation walls shall
have a minimum concrete cover of 3 / 4 inch (19.1
mm).
3. Panel-to-panel connections shall be made with
Grade II steel fasteners.
4. The use of nonstructural fibers shall conform to
ASTM C 1116.
5. Grout used for bedding precast foundations placed
upon concrete footings shall meet ASTM C 1 107.
SECTION R403
FOOTINGS
R403.1 General. All exterior walls shall be supported on
continuous solid or fully grouted masonry or concrete foot-
ings, crushed stone footings, wood foundations, or other
approved structural systems which shall be of sufficient
design to accommodate all loads according to Section R301
and to transmit the resulting loads to the soil within the limi-
tations as determined from the character of the soil. Footings
shall be supported on undisturbed natural soils or engineered
fill. Concrete footing shall be designed and constructed in
accordance with the provisions of Section R403 or in accor-
dance with ACI 332.
R403.1.1 Minimum size. Minimum sizes for concrete and
masonry footings shall be as set forth in Table R403.1 and
Figure R403. 1(1). The footing width, W, shall be based on
the load-bearing value of the soil in accordance with Table
R401.4.1. Spread footings shall be at least 6 inches (152
mm) in thickness, T. Footing projections, P, shall be at
least 2 inches (5 1 mm) and shall not exceed the thickness
of the footing. The size of footings supporting piers and
columns shall be based on the tributary load and allowable
soil pressure in accordance with Table R401.4.1. Footings
for wood foundations shall be in accordance with the
details set forth in Section R403.2, and Figures R403.1(2)
andR403.1(3).
TABLE R402.2
MINIMUM SPECIFIED COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF CONCRETE
TYPE OR LOCATION OF CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION
MINIMUM SPECIFIED COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH" (f'j
Weathering Potential"
Negligible
Moderate
Severe
Basement walls, foundations and other concrete not exposed to the weather
2,500
2,500
2,500 c
Basement slabs and interior slabs on grade, except garage floor slabs
2,500
2,500
2,500 c
Basement walls, foundation walls, exterior walls and other vertical concrete
work exposed to the weather
2,500
3,000 d
3,000"
Porches, carport slabs and steps exposed to the weather, and garage floor
slabs
2,500
3,000 dcr
3,500 def
For SI: 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
a. Strength at 28 days psi.
b. See Table R30l.2(l) for weathering potential.
c. Concrete in these locations that may be subject to freezing and thawing during construction shall be air-entrained concrete in accordance with Footnote d.
d. Concrete shall be air-entrained. Total air content (percent by volume of concrete) shall be not less than 5 percent or more than 7 percent.
e. See Section R402.2 for maximum cementitious materials content.
f. For garage floors with a steel-troweled finish, reduction of the total air content (percent by volume of concrete) to not less than 3 percent is permitted if the
specified compressive strength of the concrete is increased to not less than 4,000 psi
74
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FOUNDATIONS
BEARING WALL
3.5 IN. MIN.
\4 — W — 1\
MONOLITHIC SLAB WITH
INTEGRAL FOOTING
INTERIOR
3.5 IN. MIN.
GROUND SUPPORT SLAB
WITH MASONRY WALL
AND SPREAD FOOTING
INTERIOR
^ W ^
BASEMENT OR CRAWL SPACE
WITH MASONRY WALL AND
SPREAD FOOTING
&.
INTERIOR
-W-
BASEMENT OR CRAWL SPACE
WITH CONCRETE WALL AND
SPREAD FOOTING
J^L
INTERIOR
W
BASEMENT OR CRAWL SPACE
WITH FOUNDATION WALL
BEARING DIRECTLY ON SOIL
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R403.1(1)
CONCRETE AND MASONRY FOUNDATION DETAILS
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
75
FOUNDATIONS
m PRESSURE-PRESERVATIVE TREATED
FIELD-APPLIED 2 x 6 IN. TOP PLAT
2 x 6 IN. TOP PLATi
2 x 6 IN. STUD WALL INSULATED
AS APPROPRIATE AND WARM SIDE
VAPOR BARRIER
1 IN. THICK PRESSURE-PRESERVATIVE
TREATED LUMBER OR PLYWOOD STRIP
PROTECTING TOP OF POLYETHYLENE FILM
MIN. 3.5 IN. CONCRETE SLAB WITH
VAPOR BARRIER AND OPTIONAL
1 IN. SCREED BOARD
IN.
4 IN. GRAVEL OR CRUSHED
STONE FILL UNDER FLOOR
(SEE SECTION R403.2)
4 FT (MAX. BACKFILL)
PRESSURE-PRESERVATIVE
TREATED PLYWOOD
(SEE TABLE R404.2.3)
6 MIL POLYETHYLENE FILM
6 MIL POLYETHYLENE FILM
ON CRUSHED STONE OR
GRAVEL BACKFILL
FINISH GRADE SLOPE V z IN.
PER FOOT, MIN. 6 FT FROM
WALL
PRESSURE-PRESERVATIVE
TREATED 2 x 6 IN. BOTTOM PLATE
PRESSURE-PRESERVATIVE
TREATED 2 x 8 IN. FOOTING PLATE
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254.
FIGURE R403.1 (2)
PERMANENT WOOD FOUNDATION BASEMENT WALL SECTION
76
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FOUNDATIONS
E3 PRESSURE-PRESERVATIVE TREATED
6 MIL POLYETHYLENE FILM
6 IN.
FLOOR JOIST
FIELD-APPLIED 2 x 6 IN. TOP PLATE
FLASHING
2 x 6 IN. TOP PLATE
6 IN. GRAVEL OR CRUSHED STONE
(SEE SECTION R403.2)
. V/7-T-- ^ FINISH GRADE SLOPE V 2 IN.
\\V ////\\V //// v^C PER F00T ' MIN - 6 FT FR0M
///AW '///AW //// y^v WALL
W.V ////WV ////Y\\V///V\
PRESSURE-PRESERVATIVE
TREATED 2 x 6 IN. STUD WALL
PRESSURE-PRESERVATIVE
TREATED PLYWOOD
(SEE TABLE R404.2.3)
PRESSURE-PRESERVATIVE
TREATED 2 x 6 IN. BOTTOM PLATE
PRESSURE-PRESERVATIVE
TREATED 2 x 8 IN. FOOTING PLATE
BELOW FROST LINE
.(NOMINAL
DIMENSIONS)
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
FIGURE R403.1(3)
PERMANENT WOOD FOUNDATION CRAWL SPACE SECTION
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
77
FOUNDATIONS
R403.1.2 Continuous footing in Seismic Design Catego-
ries D , D, and D 2 . The braced wall panels at exterior
walls of buildings located in Seismic Design Categories
D , Dj and D 2 shall be supported by continuous footings.
All required interior braced wall panels in buildings with
plan dimensions greater than 50 feet (15 240 mm) shall
also be supported by continuous footings.
TABLE R403.1
MINIMUM WIDTH OF CONCRETE,
PRECAST OR MASONRY FOOTINGS (inches) 3
LOAD-BEARING VALUE OF SOIL (psf)
1,500
2,000
3,000
> 4,000
Conventional light-frame construction
1- story
12
12
12
12
2-story
15
12
12
12
3-story
23
17
12
12
4-inch brick
veneer over light frame or 8-inch hollow cone
rete masonry
1- story
12
12
12
12
2-story
21
16
12
12
3-story
32
24
16
12
8-inch solid or fully grouted masonry
1- story
16
12
12
12
2-story
29
21
14
12
3-story
42
32
21
16
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Where minimum footing width is 1 2 inches, use of a single wythe of solid
or fully grouted 12-inch nominal concrete masonry units is permitted.
R403.1.3 Seismic reinforcing. Concrete footings located
in Seismic Design Categories D , D, and D 2 , as established
in Table R301.2(l), shall have minimum reinforcement.
Bottom reinforcement shall be located a minimum of 3
inches (76 mm) clear from the bottom of the footing.
In Seismic Design Categories D , D, and D 2 where a
construction joint is created between a concrete footing
and a stem wall, a minimum of one No. 4 bar shall be
installed at not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) on center. The
vertical bar shall extend to 3 inches (76 mm) clear of the
bottom of the footing, have a standard hook and extend a
minimum of 14 inches (357 mm) into the stem wall.
In Seismic Design Categories D , Dj and D 2 where a
grouted masonry stem wall is supported on a concrete
footing and stem wall, a minimum of one No. 4 bar shall
be installed at not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) on center.
The vertical bar shall extend to 3 inches (76 mm) clear of
the bottom of the footing and have a standard hook.
In Seismic Design Categories D , D, and D 2 masonry
stem walls without solid grout and vertical reinforcing are
not permitted.
Exception: In detached one- and two-family dwellings
which are three stories or less in height and constructed
with stud bearing walls, isolated plain concrete foot-
ings, supporting columns or pedestals are permitted.
R403.1.3.1 Foundations with stemwalls. Foundations
with stem walls shall have installed a minimum of one
No. 4 bar within 12 inches (305 mm) of the top of the
wall and one No. 4 bar located 3 inches (76 mm) to 4
inches (102 mm) from the bottom of the footing.
R403. 1.3.2 Slabs-on-ground with turned-down foot-
ings. Slabs on ground with turned down footings shall
have a minimum of one No. 4 bar at the top and the bot-
tom of the footing.
Exception: For slabs-on-ground cast monolithi-
cally with the footing, locating one No. 5 bar or two
No. 4 bars in the middle third of the footing depth
shall be permitted as an alternative to placement at
the footing top and bottom.
Where the slab is not cast monolithically with the
footing, No. 3 or larger vertical dowels with standard
hooks on each end shall be provided in accordance with
Figure R403. 1.3.2. Standard hooks shall comply with
Section R61 1.5.4.5.
NO. 4 MINIMUM
HORIZONTAL BAR
TOP AND BOTTOM
CONSTRUCTION JOINT
3'/ 2 IN. MINIMUM
SLAB THICKNESS
NO. 3 MINIMUM @ 48 IN. ON
CENTER VERTICAL DOWELS
FOOTING
3 IN. COVER BOTTOM
AND SIDES
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R403.1 .3.2
DOWELS FOR SLABS-ON-GROUND WITH TURNED-DOWN FOOTINGS
78
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FOUNDATIONS
R403.1.4 Minimum depth. All exterior footings shall be
placed at least 12 inches (305 mm) below the undisturbed
ground surface. Where applicable, the depth of footings
shall also conform to Sections R403. 1.4.1 through
R403. 1.4.2.
R403.1.4.1 Frost protection. Except where otherwise
protected from frost, foundation walls, piers and other
permanent supports of buildings and structures shall be
protected from frost by one or more of the following
methods:
1. Extended below the frost line specified in Table
R301.2.(l);
2. Constructing in accordance with Section R403.3;
3. Constructing in accordance with ASCE 32; or
4. Erected on solid rock.
Exceptions:
1. Protection of freestanding accessory struc-
tures with an area of 600 square feet (56 m 2 )
or less, of light-frame construction, with an
eave height of 10 feet (3048 mm) or less shall
not be required.
2. Protection of freestanding accessory struc-
tures with an area of 400 square feet (37 m 2 )
or less, of other than light-frame construction,
with an eave height of 10 feet (3048 mm) or
less shall not be required.
3. Decks not supported by a dwelling need not be
provided with footings that extend below the
frost line.
Footings shall not bear on frozen soil unless the fro-
zen condition is permanent.
R403.1.4.2 Seismic conditions. In Seismic Design
Categories D,„ D, and D 2 , interior footings supporting
bearing or bracing walls and cast monolithically with a
slab on grade shall extend to a depth of not less than 1 2
inches (305 mm) below the top of the slab.
R403.1.5 Slope. The top surface of footings shall be level.
The bottom surface of footings shall not have a slope
exceeding one unit vertical in 10 units horizontal (10-per-
cent slope). Footings shall be stepped where it is necessary
to change the elevation of the top surface of the footings or
where the slope of the bottom surface of the footings will
exceed one unit vertical in ten units horizontal (10-percent
slope).
R403.1.6 Foundation anchorage. Sill plates and walls
supported directly on continuous foundations shall be
anchored to the foundation in accordance with this section.
Wood sole plates at all exterior walls on monolithic
slabs, wood sole plates of braced wall panels at building
interiors on monolithic slabs and all wood sill plates shall
be anchored to the foundation with anchor bolts spaced a
maximum of 6 feet (1829 mm) on center. Bolts shall be at
least V 2 inch (12.7 mm) in diameter and shall extend a
minimum of 7 inches (178 mm) into concrete or grouted
cells of concrete masonry units. A nut and washer shall be
tightened on each anchor bolt. There shall be a minimum
of two bolts per plate section with one bolt located not
more than 12 inches (305 mm) or less than seven bolt
diameters from each end of the plate section. Interior bear-
ing wall sole plates on monolithic slab foundation that are
not part of a braced wall panel shall be positively
anchored with approved fasteners. Sill plates and sole
plates shall be protected against decay and termites where
required by Sections R317 and R318. Cold-formed steel
framing systems shall be fastened to wood sill plates or
anchored directly to the foundation as required in Section
R505.3.1orR603.3.1.
Exceptions:
1. Foundation anchorage, spaced as required to pro-
vide equivalent anchorage to 7 2 -inch-diameter
(12.7 mm) anchor bolts.
2. Walls 24 inches (610 mm) total length or shorter
connecting offset braced wall panels shall be
anchored to the foundation with a minimum of
one anchor bolt located in the center third of the
plate section and shall be attached to adjacent
braced wall panels at corners as shown in item 8
of Table R602.3Q).
3. Connection of walls 12 inches (305 mm) total
length or shorter connecting offset braced wall
panels to the foundation without anchor bolts
shall be permitted. The wall shall be attached to
adjacent braced wall panels at corners as shown
initem8ofTableR602.3(l).
R403.1.6.1 Foundation anchorage in Seismic Design
Categories C, D , D, and D 2 . In addition to the
requirements of Section R403.1.6, the following
requirements shall apply to wood light-frame structures
in Seismic Design Categories D , D, and D 2 and wood
light-frame townhouses in Seismic Design Category C.
1. Plate washers conforming to Section R602.11.1
shall be provided for all anchor bolts over the full
length of required braced wall lines except where
approved anchor straps are used. Properly sized
cut washers shall be permitted for anchor bolts in
wall lines not containing braced wall panels.
2. Interior braced wall plates shall have anchor bolts
spaced at not more than 6 feet (1829 mm) on cen-
ter and located within 1 2 inches (305 mm) of the
ends of each plate section when supported on a
continuous foundation.
3. Interior bearing wall sole plates shall have anchor
bolts spaced at not more than 6 feet (1829 mm)
on center and located within 12 inches (305 mm)
of the ends of each plate section when supported
on a continuous foundation.
4. The maximum anchor bolt spacing shall be 4 feet
(1219 mm) for buildings over two stories in
height.
5. Stepped cripple walls shall conform to Section
R602.11.2.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
79
FOUNDATIONS
6. Where continuous wood foundations in accor-
dance with Section R404.2 are used, the force
transfer shall have a capacity equal to or greater
than the connections required by Section
R602. 11.1 or the braced wall panel shall be con-
nected to the wood foundations in accordance
with the braced wall panel-lo-Hoo\: fastening
requirements of Table R602.3(l ).
R403.1.7 Footings on or adjacent to slopes. The place-
ment of buildings and structures on or adjacent to slopes
steeper than one unit vertical in three units horizontal
(33.3-percent slope) shall conform to Sections R403.1 .7.1
through R403. 1.7.4.
R403.1.7.1 Building clearances from ascending
slopes. In general, buildings below slopes shall be set a
sufficient distance from the slope to provide protection
from slope drainage, erosion and shallow failures.
Except as provided in Section R403. 1.7.4 and Figure
R403. 1.7.1, the following criteria will be assumed to
provide this protection. Where the existing slope is
steeper than one unit vertical in one unit horizontal
(100-percent slope), the toe of the slope shall be
assumed to be at the intersection of a horizontal plane
drawn from the top of the foundation and a plane drawn
tangent to the slope at an angle of 45 degrees (0.79 rad)
to the horizontal. Where a retaining wall is constructed
at the toe of the slope, the height of the slope shall be
measured from the top of the wall to the top of the
slope.
R403.1.7.2 Footing setback from descending slope
surfaces. Footings on or adjacent to slope surfaces
shall be founded in material with an embedment and
setback from the slope surface sufficient to provide ver-
tical and lateral support for the footing without detri-
mental settlement. Except as provided for in Section
R403. 1.7.4 and Figure R403. 1.7.1, the following set-
back is deemed adequate to meet the criteria. Where the
slope is steeper than one unit vertical in one unit hori-
zontal (100-percent slope), the required setback shall be
measured from an imaginary plane 45 degrees (0.79
rad) to the horizontal, projected upward from the toe of
the slope.
R403.1.7.3 Foundation elevation. On graded sites, the
top of any exterior foundation shall extend above the
elevation of the street gutter at point of discharge or the
inlet of an approved drainage device a minimum of 12
inches (305 mm) plus 2 percent. Alternate elevations
are permitted subject to the approval of the building
official, provided it can be demonstrated that required
drainage to the point of discharge and away from the
structure is provided at all locations on the site.
R403.1.7.4 Alternate setback and clearances. Alter-
nate setbacks and clearances are permitted, subject to
the approval of the building official. The building offi-
cial is permitted to require an investigation and recom-
mendation of a qualified engineer to demonstrate that
the intent of this section has been satisfied. Such an
investigation shall include consideration of material,
height of slope, slope gradient, load intensity and ero-
sion characteristics of slope material.
R403.1.8 Foundations on expansive soils. Foundation
and floor slabs for buildings located on expansive soils
shall be designed in accordance with Section 1808.6 of the
International Building Code.
Exception: Slab-on-ground and other foundation sys-
tems which have performed adequately in soil condi-
tions similar to those encountered at the building site
are permitted subject to the approval of the building
official.
R403. 1.8.1 Expansive soils classifications. Soils
meeting all four of the following provisions shall be
considered expansive, except that tests to show compli-
ance with Items 1, 2 and 3 shall not be required if the
test prescribed in Item 4 is conducted:
1. Plasticity Index (PI) of 15 or greater, determined
in accordance with ASTM D 4318.
/ FACE OF
* FOOTING
H/2 BUT NEED NOT EXCEED 15 FT.
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 ram.
FIGURE R403.1.7.1
FOUNDATION CLEARANCE FROM SLOPES
80
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FOUNDATIONS
2. More than 10 percent of the soil particles pass a
No. 200 sieve (75 urn), determined in accordance
with ASTM D 422.
3. More than 10 percent of the soil particles are less
than 5 micrometers in size, determined in accor-
dance with ASTM D 422.
4. Expansion Index greater than 20, determined in
accordance with ASTM D 4829.
R403.2 Footings for wood foundations. Footings for wood
foundations shall be in accordance with Figures R403.1(2)
and R403.1(3). Gravel shall be washed and well graded. The
maximum size stone shall not exceed 3 / 4 inch (19.1 mm).
Gravel shall be free from organic, clayey or silty soils. Sand
shall be coarse, not smaller than '/ l6 -inch (1.6 mm) grains and
shall be free from organic, clayey or silty soils. Crushed stone
shall have a maximum size of 7 2 inch (12.7 mm).
R403.3 Frost-protected shallow foundations. For buildings
where the monthly mean temperature of the building is main-
tained at a minimum of 64°F (18°C), footings are not
required to extend below the frost line when protected from
frost by insulation in accordance with Figure R403.3(l) and
Table R403.3(l). Foundations protected from frost in accor-
dance with Figure R403.3(l) and Table R403.3(l) shall not
be used for unheated spaces such as porches, utility rooms,
garages and carports, and shall not be attached to basements
or crawl spaces that are not maintained at a minimum
monthly mean temperature of 64°F (18°C).
Materials used below grade for the purpose of insulating
footings against frost shall be labeled as complying with
ASTM C 578.
R403.3.1 Foundations adjoining frost-protected shal-
low foundations. Foundations that adjoin frost- protected
shallow foundations shall be protected from frost in accor-
dance with Section R403.1.4.
R403.3.1.1 Attachment to unheated slab-on-ground
structure. Vertical wall insulation and horizontal insula-
tion of frost protected shallow foundations that adjoin a
slab-on-ground foundation that does not have a monthly
mean temperature maintained at a minimum of 64°F
(18°C) shall be in accordance with Figure R403.3(3) and
Table R403.3(l). Vertical wall insulation shall extend
between the frost protected shallow foundation and the
adjoining slab foundation. Required horizontal insula-
tion shall be continuous under the adjoining slab founda-
tion and through any foundation walls adjoining the frost
protected shallow foundation. Where insulation passes
through a foundation wall, it shall either be of a type
complying with this section and having bearing capacity
equal to or greater than the structural loads imposed by
the building, or the building shall be designed and con-
structed using beams, lintels, cantilevers or other means
of transferring building loads such that the structural
loads of the building do not bear on the insulation.
R403.3.1.2 Attachment to heated structure. Where a
frost-protected shallow foundation abuts a structure
that has a monthly mean temperature maintained at a
minimum of 64°F (18°C), horizontal insulation and
vertical wall insulation shall not be required between
the frost-protected shallow foundation and the adjoin-
ing structure. Where the frost-protected shallow foun-
dation abuts the heated structure, the horizontal
insulation and vertical wall insulation shall extend
along the adjoining foundation in accordance with Fig-
ure R403.3(4) a distance of not less than Dimension A
in Table R403.3(l).
Exception: Where the frost-protected shallow foun-
dation abuts the heated structure to form an inside
corner, vertical insulation extending along the
adjoining foundation is not required.
R403.3.2 Protection of horizontal insulation below
ground. Horizontal insulation placed less than 12 inches
(305 mm) below the ground surface or that portion of hor-
izontal insulation extending outward more than 24 inches
(610 mm) from the foundation edge shall be protected
against damage by use of a concrete slab or asphalt paving
on the ground surface directly above the insulation or by
cementitious board, plywood rated for below-ground use,
or other approved materials placed below ground, directly
above the top surface of the insulation.
R403.3.3 Drainage. Final grade shall be sloped in accor-
dance with Section R401.3. In other than Group I Soils, as
detailed in Table R405.1, gravel or crushed stone beneath
horizontal insulation below ground shall drain to daylight
or into an approved sewer system.
R403.3.4 Termite damage. The use of foam plastic in
areas of "very heavy" termite infestation probability shall
be in accordance with Section R318.4.
R403.4 Footings for precast concrete foundations. Foot-
ings for precast concrete foundations shall comply with Sec-
tion R403.4.
R403.4.1 Crushed stone footings. Clean crushed stone
shall be free from organic, clayey or silty soils. Crushed
stone shall be angular in nature and meet ASTM C 33,
with the maximum size stone not to exceed V 2 inch (12.7
mm) and the minimum stone size not to be smaller than
V l6 -inch (1.6 mm). Crushed stone footings for precast
foundations shall be installed in accordance with Figure
R403.4(l) and Table R403.4. Crushed stone footings shall
be consolidated using a vibratory plate in a maximum of
8-inch lifts. Crushed stone footings shall be limited to
Seismic Design Categories A, B and C.
R403.4.2 Concrete footings. Concrete footings shall be
installed in accordance with Section R403.1 and Figure
R403.4(2).
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
81
FOUNDATIONS
INSULATION DETAIL
FLASHING PER SECTION R703 8
INSULATION PROTECTION PER SECTION R403.3.1
SLOPE FINAL GRADE PER SECTION R403 3 2
|4' J ,>4 v <,* u .>+ L '.>+ u ^
SLAB-ON-GROUND FOUNDATION FLOOR
PER SECTIONS R403.1 AND R506
/777<
/TO////
/to //A
/TO////
L////NW
-,\\\V///
NOMINAL 4 IN. SCREENED AND
WASHED GRAVEL OR CRUSHED
STONE DRAINED PER SECTION
R403.3.2
,TOT/AW77/% </7Ts% '//I %TO7// TO
•,\\v////
>/'
VERTICAL WALL INSUALTION'
' HORIZONTAL INSULATION'
HORIZONTAL INSULATION PLAN
FOUNATION -— __
PERIMETER
I i
4
1
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. See Table R403.3(l) for required dimensions and /{-values for vertical and horizontal insulation and minimum footing depth.
FIGURE R403.3(1)
INSULATION PLACEMENT FOR FROST PROTECTED FOOTINGS IN HEATED BUILDINGS
TABLE R403.3(1)
MINIMUM FOOTING DEPTH AND INSULATION REQUIREMENTS FOR FROST-PROTECTED FOOTINGS IN HEATED BUILDINGS 3
AIR FREEZING
INDEX
(°F-days) b
MINIMUM FOOTING
DEPTH, D
(inches)
VERTICAL
INSULATION
R-VALUE "
HORIZONTAL INSULATION
R-VALUE ee
HORIZONTAL INSULATION DIMENSIONS
PER FIGURE R403.3(1) (inches)
Along walls
At corners
A
B
C
1,500 or less
12
4.5
Not required
Not required
Not required
Not required
Not required
2,000
14
5.6
Not required
Not required
Not required
Not required
Not required
2,500
16
6.7
1.7
4.9
12
24
40
3,000
16
7.8
6.5
8.6
12
24
40
3,500
16
9.0
8.0
11.2
24
30
60
4,000
16
10.1
10.5
13.1
24
36
60
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, °C = [(°F) - 32]/1.8.
a. Insulation requirements are for protection against frost damage in heated buildings. Greater values may be required to meet energy conservation standards.
b. See Figure R403.3(2) or Table R403.3(2) for Air Freezing Index values.
c. Insulation materials shall provide the stated minimum fl-values under long-term exposure to moist, below-ground conditions in freezing climates. The
following ff-values shall be used to determine insulation thicknesses required for this application: Type II expanded polystyrene-2.4/J per inch; Type IV
extruded polystyrene-4.5K per inch; Type VI extruded polystyrene-4.5# per inch; Type IX expanded polystyrene-3.2ft per inch; Type X extruded polystyrene-
4.57? per inch.
d. Vertical insulation shall be expanded polystyrene insulation or extruded polystyrene insulation.
e. Horizontal insulation shall be extruded polystyrene insulation.
82
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
FOUNDATIONS
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
83
FOUNDATIONS
TABLE R403.3(2)
AIR-FREEZING INDEX FOR U.S. LOCATIONS BY COUNTY
AIR-FREEZING INDEX
STATE
1 500 or less
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
Alabama
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
Alaska
Ketchikan
Gateway,
Prince of Wales-
Outer Ketchikan
(CA), Sitka,
Wrangell-
Petersburg (CA)
—
Aleutians West (CA),
Haines, Juneau,
Skagway-Hoonah-
Angoon (CA), Yakutat
—
—
All counties
not listed
Arizona
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
Arkansas
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
California
All counties
not listed
Nevada, Sierra
—
—
—
—
Colorado
All counties
not listed
Archuleta, Custer,
Fremont, Huerfano,
Las Animas, Ouray,
Pitkin, San Miguel
Clear Creek, Conejos,
Costilla, Dolores, Eagle,
La Plata, Park, Routt,
San Juan, Summit
Alamosa, Grand,
Jackson, Larimer,
Moffat,
Rio Blanco,
Rio Grande
Chaffee, Gunnison,
Lake, Saguache
Hinsdale,
Mineral
Connecticut
All counties
not listed
Hartford,
Litchfield
—
—
—
—
Delaware
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
District of
Columbia
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
Florida
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
Georgia
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
Hawaii
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
Idaho
All counties
not listed
Adams, Bannock, Blaine,
Clearwater, Idaho,
Lincoln, Oneida, Power,
Valley, Washington
Bingham,
Bonneville, Camas,
Caribou, Elmore,
Franklin, Jefferson,
Madison, Teton
Bear Lake, Butte,
Custer, Fremont,
Lemhi
Clark
—
Illinois
All counties
not listed
Boone, Bureau, Cook,
Dekalb, DuPage, Fulton,
Grundy, Henderson,
Henry, Iroquois,
Jo Daviess, Kane,
Kankakee, Kendall,
Knox, La Salle, Lake,
Lee, Livingston,
Marshall, Mason,
McHenry, McLean,
Mercer, Peoria, Putnam,
Rock Island,
Stark, Tazewell, Warren,
Whiteside, Will,
Woodford
Carroll, Ogle,
Stephenson,
Winnebago
—
—
—
Indiana
All counties
not listed
Allen, Benton, Cass,
Fountain, Fulton,
Howard, Jasper,
Kosciusko, La Porte,
Lake, Marshall, Miami,
Newton, Porter, Pulaski,
Starke, Steuben, Tippeca-
noe, Tipton, Wabash,
Wan-en, White
—
—
—
—
{continued)
84
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FOUNDATIONS
TABLE R403.3(2)— continued
AIR-FREEZING INDEX FOR U.S. LOCATIONS BY COUNTY
STATE
AIR-FREEZING INDEX
1500 or less
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
Iowa
Appanoose,
Davis,
Fremont, Lee,
Van Buren
All counties
not listed
Allamakee, Black
Hawk, Boone, Bremer,
Buchanan, Buena Vista,
Butler, Calhoun,
Cerro Gordo, Cherokee,
Chickasaw, Clay,
Clayton, Delaware,
Dubuque, Fayette,
Floyd, Franklin,
Grundy, Hamilton,
Hancock, Hardin,
Humboldt, Ida,
Jackson, Jasper, Jones,
Linn, Marshall,
Palo Alto, Plymouth,
Pocahontas, Poweshiek,
Sac, Sioux, Story,
Tama. Webster,
Winnebago, Woodbury,
Worth, Wright
Dickinson,
Emmet, Howard,
Kossuth, Lyon,
Mitchell,
O'Brien,
Osceola,
Winneshiek
—
—
Kansas
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
Kentucky
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
Louisiana
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
Maine
York
Knox, Lincoln,
Sagadahoc
Androscoggin,
Cumberland, Hancock,
Kennebec, Waldo,
Washington
Aroostook,
Franklin, Oxford,
Penobscot,
Piscataquis,
Somerset
—
—
Maryland
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
Massachusetts
All counties
not listed
Berkshire, Franklin,
Hampden,
Worcester
—
—
—
—
Michigan
Berrien,
Branch, Cass,
Kalamazoo,
Macomb, Ottawa,
St. Clair,
St. Joseph
All counties
not listed
Alger, Charlevoix,
Cheboygan, Chippewa,
Crawford, Delta,
Emmet, Iosco,
Kalkaska, Lake, Luce,
Mackinac, Menominee,
Missaukee,
Montmorency,
Ogemaw, Osceola,
Otsego, Roscommon,
Schoolcraft, Wexford
Baraga,
Dickinson, Iron,
Keweenaw,
Marquette
Gogebic,
Houghton,
Ontonagon
—
Minnesota
—
—
Houston, Winona
All counties
not listed
Aitkin,
Big Stone,
Carlton,
Crow Wing,
Douglas, Itasca,
Kanabec, Lake,
Morrison, Pine,
Pope, Stearns,
Stevens, Swift,
Todd, Wadena
Becker,
Beltrami, Cass,
Clay, Clearwater,
Grant, Hubbard,
Kittson,
Koochiching,
Lake of the Woods,
Mahnomen,
Marshall, Norman,
Otter Tail,
Pennington, Polk,
Red Lake, Roseau,
St. Louis, Traverse,
Wilkin
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
85
FOUNDATIONS
TABLE R403.3{2)— continued
AIR-FREEZING INDEX FOR U.S. LOCATIONS BY COUNTY
STATE
AIR-FREEZING INDEX
1500 or less
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
Mississippi
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
Missouri
All counties
not listed
Atchison, Mercer,
Nodaway, Putnam
—
—
—
—
Montana
Mineral
Broadwater,
Golden Valley,
Granite, Lake,
Lincoln,
Missoula,
Ravalli, Sanders,
Sweet Grass
Big Horn, Carbon,
Jefferson,
Judith Basin,
Lewis and Clark,
Meagher,
Musselshell,
Powder River,
Powell, Silver Bow,
Stillwater,
Wesfland
Carter, Cascade,
Deer Lodge,
Falcon, Fergus,
Flathead, Gallanting,
Glacier, Madison,
Park, Petroleum,
Ponder, Rosebud,
Teton, Treasure,
Yellowstone
Beaverhead,
Blaine,
Chouteau, Custer,
Dawson, Garfield,
Liberty, McCone,
Prairie, Toole,
Wibaux
Daniels, Hill,
Phillips, Richland,
Roosevelt,
Sheridan, Valley
Nebraska
Adams, Banner,
Chase, Cheyenne,
Clay, Deuel, Dundy,
Fillmore, Franklin,
Frontier, Furnas,
Gage, Garden,
Gosper, Harlan,
Hayes, Hitchcock,
Jefferson, Kimball,
Morrill, Nemaha,
Nuckolls, Pawnee,
Perkins, Phelps,
Red Willow,
Richardson, Saline,
Scotts Bluff, Seward,
Thayer, Webster
All counties
not listed
Boyd, Burt, Cedar,
Cuming, Dakota,
Dixon, Dodge,
Knox, Thurston
—
—
—
Nevada
All counties
not listed
Elko, Eureka,
Nye, Washoe,
White Pine
—
—
—
—
New
Hampshire
—
All counties
not listed
—
—
—
Carroll, Coos,
Grafton
New Jersey
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
New Mexico
All counties
not listed
Rio Arriba
Colfax, Mora, Taos
—
—
—
New York
Albany, Bronx,
Cayuga, Columbia,
Cortland, Dutchess,
Genessee, Kings,
Livingston, Monroe,
Nassau, New York,
Niagara, Onondaga,
Ontario, Orange,
Orleans, Putnam,
Queens, Richmond,
Rockland, Seneca,
Suffolk, Wayne,
Westchester, Yates
All counties
not listed
Clinton, Essex,
Franklin, Hamilton,
Herkimer,
Jefferson, Lewis,
St. Lawrence,
Warren
—
—
—
North
Carolina
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
(continued)
86
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FOUNDATIONS
TABLE R403.3(2)— continued
AIR-FREEZING INDEX FOR U.S. LOCATIONS BY COUNTY
STATE
AIR-FREEZING INDEX
1500 or less
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
North
Dakota
—
—
—
Billings,
Bowman
Adams, Dickey,
Golden Valley, Het-
tinger, LaMoure,
Oliver, Ransom,
Sargent, Sioux,
Slope, Stark
All counties
not listed
Ohio
All counties not
listed
Ashland, Crawford,
Defiance, Holmes,
Huron, Knox,
Licking, Morrow,
Paulding, Putnam,
Richland, Seneca,
Williams
—
—
—
—
Oklahoma
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
Oregon
All counties
not listed
Baker, Crook, Grant,
Harney
—
—
—
—
Pennsylvania
All counties
not listed
Berks, Blair,
Bradford, Cambria,
Cameron, Centre,
Clarion, Clearfield,
Clinton, Crawford,
Elk, Forest,
Huntingdon,
Indiana, Jefferson,
Lackawanna, Lycom-
ing, McKean, Pike,
Potter,
Susquehanna, Tioga,
Venango, Warren,
Wayne, Wyoming
—
—
—
—
Rhode Island
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
South
Carolina
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
South Dakota
—
Bennett, Custer,
Fall River,
Lawrence, Mellette,
Shannon, Todd,
Tripp
Bon Homme,
Charles Mix,
Davison, Douglas,
Gregory, Jackson,
Jones, Lyman
All counties
not listed
Beadle, Brookings,
Brown, Campbell,
Codington, Corson,
Day, Deuel,
Edmunds, Faulk,
Grant, Hamlin,
Kingsbury,
Marshall,
McPherson,
Perkins, Roberts,
Spink, Walworth
—
Tennessee
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
Texas
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
Utah
All counties
not listed
Box Elder,
Morgan, Weber
Garfield, Salt Lake,
Summit
Carbon, Daggett,
Duchesne, Rich,
Sanpete, Uintah,
Wasatch
—
—
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
87
FOUNDATIONS
TABLE R403.3(2)— continued
AIR-FREEZING INDEX FOR U.S. LOCATIONS BY COUNTY
STATE
AIR-FREEZING INDEX
1500 or less
2000
2500
3000
3500
4000
Vermont
—
Bennington,
Grand Isle, Rutland,
Windham
Addison,
Chittenden,
Franklin, Orange,
Washington,
Windsor
Caledonia, Essex,
Lamoille, Orleans
—
—
Virginia
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
Utah
All counties
not listed
Box Elder,
Morgan, Weber
Garfield, Salt Lake,
Summit
Carbon, Daggett,
Duchesne, Rich,
Sanpete, Uintah,
Wasatch
—
—
West
Virginia
All counties
—
—
—
—
—
Wisconsin
—
Kenosha,
Kewaunee, Racine,
Sheboygan,
Walworth
All counties
not listed
Ashland, Barron,
Burnett, Chippewa,
Clark, Dunn,
Eau Claire,
Florence, Forest,
Iron, Jackson,
La Crosse,
Langlade,
Marathon, Monroe,
Pepin, Polk,
Portage, Price,
Rust, St. Croix,
Taylor,
Trempealeau,
Vilas, Wood
Bayfield, Douglas,
Lincoln, Oneida,
Sawyer, Washburn
—
Wyoming
Goshen, Platte
Converse, Crook,
Laramie, Niobrara
Campbell, Carbon,
Hot Springs,
Johnson, Natrona,
Sheridan, Uinta,
Weston
Albany, Big Horn,
Park, Washakie
Fremont, Teton
Lincoln,
Sublette,
Sweetwater
88
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
FOUNDATIONS
INSULATION DETAIL
FLASHING PER SECTION R703.8
INSULATION PROTECTION PER SECTION R403.3.2
FINISH GRADE OR CONCRETE '
SLAB OF ADJACENT UNHEATED
SLAB-ON-GROUND STRUCTURE
BEAM LINTEL OR CANTILEVER
TO CARRY LOAD OVER
NONLOAD-BEARING
INSULATION
CONCRETE MASONRY OR
PERMANENT WOOD
FOUNDATION GRADE BEAM
OR WALL OF ADJACENT
UNHEATED STRUCTURE
FOOTING AS REQUIRED
FROST-PROTECTED SHALLOW
FOUNDATION SLAB-ON-GRADE
FLOOR PER SECTION 403.3
NOMINAL 4 IN. SCREEN AND
WASHED GRAVEL OR CRUSHED STONE
DRAINED PER SECTION R403.3.3
VERTICAL WALL INSULATION*
HORIZONTAL INSULATION*
HORIZONTAL INSULATION PLAN
ATTACHED SLAB
FOUNDATION OF UNHEATED
SLAB-ON-GROUND
STRUCTURE PER
SECTION R403.1
AND R403.2
^FOUNDATION PERIMETER
HEATED BUILDING AREA
L A
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. See Table R403.3( 1 ) for required dimensions and R- values for vertical and horizontal insulation.
FIGURE R403.3(3)
INSULATION PLACEMENT FOR FROST-PROTECTED FOOTINGS ADJACENT TO UNHEATED SLAB-ON-GROUND STRUCTURE
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
89
FOUNDATIONS
FOUNDATION OF HEATED
STRUCTURE PER
SECTIONS R403.1,
R403.2, AND R403.3.2
L FROST-PROTECTION —
SHALLOW FOUNDATION
A
- INSIDE CORNER
FIGURE R403.3(4)
INSULATION PLACEMENT FOR FROST-PROTECTED FOOTINGS ADJACENT TO HEATED STRUCTURE
MINIMUM DEPTH OF
TABLE R403.4
CRUSHED STONE FOOTINGS (D), (inches)
LOAD-BEARING VALUE OF SOIL (psf)
1500
2000
3000
4000
MH, CH,
CL, ML
SC, GC, SM, GM, SP, SW
GP, GW
Wall width (inches)
Wall width (inches)
Wall width (Inches
)
Wall width
i (inches
)
6
8
10
12
6
8
10
12
6
8
10
12
6
8
10
12
Conventional light-frame construction
1 -story
HOOplf
6
4
4
4
6
4
4
4
6
4
4
4
6
4
4
4
2-story
1 800 plf
8
6
4
4
6
4
4
4
6
4
4
4
6
4
4
4
3-story
2900 plf
16
14
12
10
10
8
6
6
6
4
4
4
6
4
4
4
4-inch
brick veneer over light-frame or 8-inch hollow concrete masonry
1-story
1500 plf
6
4
4
4
6
4
4
4
6
4
4
4
6
4
4
4
2 -story
2700 plf
14
12
10
8
10
8
6
4
6
4
4
4
6
4
4
4
3-story
4000 plf
22
22
20
18
16
14
12
10
10
8
6
4
6
4
4
4
8-inch solid or fully grouted masonry
1- story
2000 plf
10
8
6
4
6
4
4
4
6
4
4
4
6
4
4
4
2-story
3600 plf
20
18
16
16
14
12
10
8
8
6
4
4
6
4
4
4
3 -story
5300 plf
32
30
28
26
22
22
20
18
14
12
10
8
10
8
6
4
/IT Q N
/ m -
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.89 pounds per linear foot, 1 plf = 2.44 N/m, 1 pounds per square foot = 47.9 N/m
90
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE @
FOUNDATIONS
£1
u
PRECAST
CONCRETE
WALL
CRASHED STONE ■
FOOTING
\
INTERIOR
W
FIGURE R403.4(1)
BASEMENT OR CRAWL SPACE WITH PRECAST
FOUNDATION WALL BEARING ON CRUSHED STONE
FIGURE R403.4(2)
BASEMENT OR CRAWL SPACE WITH PRECAST
FOUNDATION WALL ON SPREAD FOOTING
SECTION R404
FOUNDATION AND RETAINING WALLS
R404.1 Concrete and masonry foundation walis. Concrete
foundation walls shall be selected and constructed in accor-
dance with the provisions of Section R404.1.2. Masonry
foundation walls shall be selected and constructed in accor-
dance with the provisions of Section R404.1.1.
R404.1.1 Design of masonry foundation walls. Masonry
foundation walls shall be designed and constructed in
accordance with the provisions of this section or in accor-
dance with the provisions of TMS 402/ACI 530/ASCE 5
or NCMA TR68-A. When TMS 402/ACI 530/ASCE 5,
NCMA TR68-A or the provisions of this section are used
to design masonry foundation walls, project drawings, typ-
ical details and specifications are not required to bear the
seal of the architect or engineer responsible for design,
unless otherwise required by the state law of the jurisdic-
tion having authority.
R404. 1.1.1 Masonry foundation walls. Concrete
masonry and clay masonry foundation walls shall be
constructed as set forth in Table R404. 1.1(1),
R404. 1.1(2), R4G4.1.1(3) or R404. 1.1(4) and shall also
comply with applicable provisions of Sections R606,
R607 and R608. In buildings assigned to Seismic
Design Categories D , D, and D 2 , concrete masonry and
clay masonry foundation walls shall also comply with
Section R404. 1.4.1. Rubble stone masonry foundation
walls shall be constructed in accordance with Sections
R404.1.8 and R607.2.2. Rubble stone masonry walls
shall not be used in Seismic Design Categories D , D[
and D 2 .
R404.1.2 Concrete foundation walls. Concrete founda-
tion walls that support light-frame walls shall be designed
and constructed in accordance with the provisions of this
section, ACI 318, ACI 332 or PCA 100. Concrete founda-
tion walls that support above-grade concrete walls that are
within the applicability limits of Section R611.2 shall be
designed and constructed in accordance with the provi-
sions of this section, ACI 318, ACI 332 or PCA 100. Con-
crete foundation walls that support above-grade concrete
walls that are not within the applicability limits of Section
R611.2 shall be designed and constructed in accordance
with the provisions of ACI 318, ACI 332 or PCA 100.
When ACI 318, ACI 332, PCA 100 or the provisions of
this section are used to design concrete foundation walls,
project drawings, typical details and specifications are not
required to bear the seal of the architect or engineer
responsible for design, unless otherwise required by the
state law of the jurisdiction having authority.
R404.1.2.1 Concrete cross-section. Concrete walls
constructed in accordance with this code shall comply
with the shapes and minimum concrete cross-sectional
dimensions required by Table R61 1.3. Other types of
forming systems resulting in concrete walls not in com-
pliance with this section and Table R611.3 shall be
designed in accordance with ACI 318.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE" 3
91
FOUNDATIONS
TABLE R404.1.1(1)
PLAIN MASONRY FOUNDATION WALLS
MAXIMUM WALL HEIGHT
(feet)
MAXIMUM
UNBALANCED
BACKFILL HEIGHT
(feet)
PLAIN MASONRY 8 MINIMUM NOMINAL WALL THICKNESS (inches)
Soil classes"
GW, GP, SW
and SP
GM, GC, SM,
SM-SC and ML
SC, MH, ML-CL
and inorganic CL
5
4
5
6 solid" or 8
6 solid" or 8
6 solid" or 8
8
6 solid" or 8
10
6
4
5
6
6 solid" or 8
6 solid" or 8
8
6 solid" or 8
8
10
6 solid" or 8
10
12
7
4
5
6
7
6 solid" or 8
6 solid" or 8
10
12
8
10
12
10 solid"
8
10
10 solid"
12 solid"
8
4
5
6
7
8
6 solid" or 8
6 solid" or 8
10
12
10 solid"
6 solid" or 8
10
12
12 solid"
12 solid"
8
12
12 solid"
Footnote e
Footnote e
9
4
5
6
7
8
9
6 solid" or 8
8
10
12
12 solid"
Footnote e
6 solid" or 8
10
12
12 solid"
Footnote e
Footnote e
8
12
12 solid"
Footnote e
Footnote e
Footnote e
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 Pa.
a. Mortar shall be Type M or S and masonry shall be laid in running bond. Ungrouted hollow masonry units are permitted except where otherwise indicated.
b. Soil classes are in accordance with the Unified Soil Classification System. Refer to Table R 405.1 .
c. Unbalanced backfill height is the difference in height between the exterior finish ground level and the lower of the top of the concrete footing that supports the
foundation wall or the interior finish ground level. Where an interior concrete slab-on-grade is provided and is in contact with the interior surface of the
foundation wall, measurement of the unbalanced backfill height from the exterior finish ground level to the top of the interior concrete slab is permitted.
d. Solid grouted hollow units or solid masonry units.
e. Wall construction shall be in accordance with either Table R404. 1.1(2), Table R404.1.1(3), Table R404.1.1(4), or a design shall be provided.
92
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 81
FOUNDATIONS
TABLE R404.1. 1(2)
8-INCH MASONRY FOUNDATION WALLS WITH REINFORCING WHERE d :
5 INCHES 3 '
WALL HEIGHT
HEIGHT OF
UNBALANCED
BACKFILL"
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT AND SPACING (INCHES)"'
Soil classes and lateral soli !oad d (psf per foot below grade)
GW, GP, SW and SP soils
30
GM, GC, SM, SM-SC and ML soils
45
SC, ML-CL and inorganic CL soils
60
6 feet 8 inches
4 feet (or less)
5 feet
6 feet 8 inches
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#5 at 48
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#6 at 48
7 feet 4 inches
4 feet (or less)
5 feet
6 feet
7 feet 4 inches
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#5 at 48
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#5 at 48
#6 at 48
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#5 at 48
#6 at 40
8 feet
4 feet (or less)
5 feet
6 feet
7 feet
8 feet
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#5 at 48
#5 at 48
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#5 at 48
#6 at 48
#6 at 48
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#5 at 48
#6 at 40
#6 at 32
8 feet 8 inches
4 feet (or less)
5 feet
6 feet
7 feet
8 feet 8 inches
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#5 at 48
#6 at 48
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#5 at 48
#6 at 48
#6 at 32
#4 at 48
#5 at 48
#6 at 48
#6 at 40
#6 at 24
9 feet 4 inches
4 feet (or less)
5 feet
6 feet
7 feet
8 feet
9 feet 4 inches
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#5 at 48
#6 at 48
#6 at 40
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#5 at 48
#6 at 48
#6 at 40
#6 at 24
#4 at 48
#5 at 48
#6 at 48
#6 at 40
#6 at 24
#6 at 16
10 feet
4 feet (or less)
5 feet
6 feet
7 feet
8 feet
9 feet
10 feet
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#5 at 48
#6 at 48
#6 at 40
#6 at 32
#4 at 48
#4 at 48
#5 at 48
#6 at 48
#6 at 32
#6 at 24
#6 at 16
#4 at 48
#5 at 48
#6 at 48
#6 at 32
#6 at 24
#6 at 16
#6 at 16
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot per foot = 0.157 kPa/mm.
a. Mortar shall be Type M or S and masonry shall be laid in running bond.
b. Alternative reinforcing bar sizes and spacings having an equivalent cross-sectional area of reinforcement per lineal foot of wall shall be permitted provided
the spacing of the reinforcement does not exceed 72 inches.
c. Vertical reinforcement shall be Grade 60 minimum. The distance, d, from the face of the soil side of the wall to the center of vertical reinforcement shall be at
least 5 inches.
d. Soil classes are in accordance with the Unified Soil Classification System and design lateral soil loads are for moist conditions without hydrostatic pressure.
Refer to Table R405.1.
e. Unbalanced backfill height is the difference in height between the exterior finish ground level and the lower of the top of the concrete footing that supports the
foundation wall or the interior finish ground level. Where an interior concrete slab-on-grade is provided and is in contact with the interior surface of the
foundation wall, measurement of the unbalanced backfill height from the exterior finish ground level to the top of the interior concrete slab is permitted.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
93
FOUNDATIONS
TABLE R404.1.1(3)
10-INCH MASONRY FOUNDATION WALLS WITH REINFORCING WHERE d > 6.75 INCHES 3 ''
WALL HEIGHT
HEIGHT OF
UNBALANCED
BACKFILL 8
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT AND SPACING (INCHES)" c
Soil classes and later soil load d (psf per foot below grade)
GW, GP, SW and SP soils
GM, GC, SM, SM-SC and ML soils
SC, ML-CL and inorganic CL
soils
30
45
60
4 feet (or less)
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
6 feet 8 inches
5 feet
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
6 feet 8 inches
#4 at 56
#5 at 56
#5 at 56
4 feet (or less)
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
5 feet
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
7 feet 4 inches
6 feet
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
#5 at 56
7 feet 4 inches
#4 at 56
#5 at 56
#6 at 56
4 feet (or less)
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
5 feet
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
8 feet
6 feet
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
#5 at 56
7 feet
#4 at 56
#5 at 56
#6 at 56
8 feet
#5 at 56
#6 at 56
#6 at 48
4 feet (or less)
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
5 feet
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
8 feet 8 inches
6 feet
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
#5 at 56
7 feet
#4 at 56
#5 at 56
#6 at 56
8 feet 8 inches
#5 at 56
#6 at 48
#6 at 32
4 feet (or less)
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
5 feet
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
9 feet 4 inches
6 feet
#4 at 56
#5 at 56
#5 at 56
7 feet
#4 at 56
#5 at 56
#6 at 56
8 feet
#5 at 56
#6 at 56
#6 at 40
9 feet 4 inches
#6 at 56
#6 at 40
#6 at 24
4 feet (or less)
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
5 feet
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
#4 at 56
6 feet
#4 at 56
#5 at 56
#5 at 56
10 feet
7 feet
#5 at 56
#6 at 56
#6 at 48
8 feet
#5 at 56
#6 at 48
#6 at 40
9 feet
#6 at 56
#6 at 40
#6 at 24
10 feet
#6 at 48
#6 at 32
#6 at 24
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot per foot = 0.157 kPa/mm.
a. Mortar shall be Type M or S and masonry shall be laid in running bond.
b. Alternative reinforcing bar sizes and spacings having an equivalent cross-sectional area of reinforcement per lineal foot of wall shall be permitted provided
the spacing of the reinforcement does not exceed 72 inches.
c. Vertical reinforcement shall be Grade 60 minimum. The distance, d, from the face of the soil side of the wall to the center of vertical reinforcement shall be at
least 6.75 inches.
d. Soil classes are in accordance with the Unified Soil Classification System and design lateral soil loads are for moist conditions without hydrostatic pressure.
Refer to Table R405. 1.
e. Unbalanced backfill height is the difference in height between the exterior finish ground level and the lower of the top of the concrete footing that supports the
foundation wall or the interior finish ground level. Where an interior concrete slab-on-grade is provided and is in contact with the interior surface of the
foundation wall, measurement of the unbalanced backfill height from the exterior finish ground level to the top of the interior concrete slab is permitted.
94
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FOUNDATIONS
TABLE R404.1. 1(4)
12-INCH MASONRY FOUNDATION WALLS WITH REINFORCING WHERE d > 8.75 INCHES"
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT AND SPACING (INCHES)" 5
WALL HEIGHT
UNBALANCED
BACKFILL 5
Soil classes and lateral soil load d (psf per foot below grade)
GW, GP, SW and SP soils
GM, GC, SM, SM-SC and ML soils
SC, ML-CL and inorganic CL soils
30
45
60
4 feet (or less)
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
6 feet 8 inches
5 feet
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
6 feet 8 inches
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
#5 at 72
4 feet (or less)
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
7 feet 4 inches
5 feet
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
6 feet
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
#5 at 72
7 feet 4 inches
#4 at 72
#5 at 72
#6 at 72
4 feet (or less)
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
5 feet
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
8 feet
6 feet
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
#5 at 72
7 feet
#4 at 72
#5 at 72
#6 at 72
8 feet
#5 at 72
#6 at 72
#6 at 64
4 feet (or less)
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
5 feet
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
8 feet 8 inches
6 feet
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
#5 at 72
7 feet
#4 at 72
#5 at 72
#6 at 72
8 feet 8 inches
#5 at 72
#7 at 72
#6 at 48
4 feet (or less)
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
5 feet
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
9 feet 4 inches
6 feet
#4 at 72
#5 at 72
#5 at 72
7 feet
#4 at 72
#5 at 72
#6 at 72
8 feet
#5 at 72
#6 at 72
#6 at 56
9 feet 4 inches
#6 at 72
#6 at 48
#6 at 40
4 feet (or less)
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
5 feet
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
#4 at 72
6 feet
#4 at 72
#5 at 72
#5 at 72
10 feet
7 feet
#4 at 72
#6 at 72
#6 at 72
8 feet
#5 at 72
#6 at 72
#6 at 48
9 feet
#6 at 72
#6 at 56
#6 at 40
10 feet
#6 at 64
#6 at 40
#6 at 32
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot per foot = 0.157 kPa/mm.
a. Mortar shall be Type M or S and masonry shall be laid in running bond.
b. Alternative reinforcing bar sizes and spacings having an equivalent cross-sectional area of reinforcement per lineal foot of wall shall be permitted provided
the spacing of the reinforcement does not exceed 72 inches.
c. Vertical reinforcement shall be Grade 60 minimum. The distance, d, from the face of the soil side of the wall to the center of vertical reinforcement shall be at
least 8.75 inches.
d. Soil classes are in accordance with the Unified Soil Classification System and design lateral soil loads are for moist conditions without hydrostatic pressure
Refer to Table R405.1.
e. Unbalanced backfill height is the difference in height between the exterior finish ground level and the lower of the top of the concrete footing that supports the
foundation wall or the interior finish ground levels. Where an interior concrete slab-on-grade is provided and in contact with the interior surface of the
foundation wall, measurement of the unbalanced backfill height is permitted to be measured from the exterior finish ground level to the top of the interior
concrete slab is permitted.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
95
FOUNDATIONS
R404. 1.2.2 Reinforcement for foundation walls.
Concrete foundation walls shall be laterally supported
at the top and bottom. Horizontal reinforcement shall
be provided in accordance with Table R404. 1.2(1).
Vertical reinforcement shall be provided in accordance
with Table R404. 1.2(2), R404. 1.2(3), R404. 1.2(4),
R404. 1.2(5), R404. 1.2(6), R404. 1.2(7) or R404. 1.2(8).
Vertical reinforcement for flat basement walls retaining
4 feet (1219 mm) or more of unbalanced backfill is per-
mitted to be determined in accordance with Table
R404. 1.2(9). For basement walls supporting above-
grade concrete walls, vertical reinforcement shall be the
greater of that required by Tables R404. 1.2(2) through
R404. 1.2(8) or by Section R611.6 for the above-grade
wall. In buildings assiged to Seismic Design Category
D () , D, or D 2 , concrete foundation walls shall also com-
ply with Section R404. 1.4.2.
R404.1.2.2.1 Concrete foundation stem walls sup-
porting above-grade concrete walls. Foundation
stem walls that support above-grade concrete walls
shall be designed and constructed in accordance
with this section.
1.
Stem walls not laterally supported at top.Con-
crete stem walls that are not monolithic with
slabs-on-ground or are not otherwise laterally
supported by slabs-on-ground shall comply
with this section. Where unbalanced backfill
retained by the stem wall is less than or equal
to 18 inches (457 mm), the stem wall and
above-grade wall it supports shall be provided
with vertical reinforcement in accordance with
Section R611.6 and Table R611.6(l),
R61 1.6(2) or R61 1.6(3) for above-grade walls.
Where unbalanced backfill retained by the
stem wall is greater than 18 inches (457 mm),
the stem wall and above-grade wall it supports
shall be provided with vertical reinforcement
in accordance with Section R61 1 .6 and Table
R6 11.6(4).
Stem walls laterally supported at top.Concrete
stem walls that are monolithic with slabs-on-
ground or are otherwise laterally supported by
slabs-on-ground shall be vertically reinforced
in accordance with Section R611.6 and Table
R61 1.6(1), R61 1.6(2) or R61 1.6(3) for above-
grade walls. Where the unbalanced backfill
retained by the stem wall is greater than 18
inches (457 mm), the connection between the
stem wall and the slab-on-ground, and the por-
tion of the slab-on-ground providing lateral
support for the wall shall be designed in accor-
dance with PC A 100 or in accordance with
accepted engineering practice. Where the
unbalanced backfill retained by the stem wall
is greater than 18 inches (457 mm), the mini-
mum nominal thickness of the wall shall be 6
inches (152 mm).
R404. 1.2.2.2 Concrete foundation stem walls sup-
porting light-frame above-grade walls. Concrete
foundation stem walls that support light-frame
above-grade walls shall be designed and constructed
in accordance with this section.
1 . Stem walls not laterally supported at top.Con-
crete stem walls that are not monolithic with
slabs-on-ground or are not otherwise laterally
supported by slabs-on-ground and retain 48
inches (1219 mm) or less of unbalanced fill,
measured from the top of the wall, shall be
constructed in accordance with Section
R404.1.2. Foundation stem walls that retain
more than 48 inches (1219 mm) of unbalanced
fill, measured from the top of the wall, shall be
designed in accordance with Sections
R404.1.3andR404.4.
2. Stem walls laterally supported at top.Concrete
stem walls that are monolithic with slabs-on-
ground or are otherwise laterally supported by
slabs-on-ground shall be constructed in accor-
dance with Section R404.1.2. Where the
unbalanced backfill retained by the stem wall
is greater than 48 inches (1219 mm), the con-
nection between the stem wall and the slab-
on-ground, and the portion of the slab-on-
ground providing lateral support for the wall
shall be designed in accordance with PC A 100
or in accordance with accepted engineering
practice.
R404.1.2.3 Concrete, materials for concrete, and
forms. Materials used in concrete, the concrete itself
and forms shall conform to requirements of this section
orACI318.
R404.L 2.3.1 Compressive strength. The minimum
specified compressive strength of concrete, f' c , shall
comply with Section R402.2 and shall be not less
TABLE R404.1. 2(1)
MINIMUM HORIZONTAL REINFORCEMENT FOR CONCRETE BASEMENT WALLS" '
MAXIMUM UNSUPPORTED
HEIGHT OF BASEMENT WALL
(feet)
<8
LOCATION OF HORIZONTAL REINFORCEMENT
One No. 4 bar within 12 inches of the top of the wall story and one No. 4 bar near mid-height of the wall story.
One No. 4 bar within 12 inches of the top of the wall story and one No. 4 bar near third points in the wall story.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
a. Horizontal reinforcement requirements are for reinforcing bars with a minimum yield strength of 40,000 psi and concrete with a minimum concrete
compressive strength 2,500 psi.
b. See Section R404.1.2.2 for minimum reinforcement required for foundation walls supporting above-grade concrete walls.
96
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FOUNDATIONS
than 2,500 psi (17.2 MPa) at 28 days in buildings
assigned to Seismic Design Category A, B or C and
3000 psi (20.5 MPa) in buildings assigned to Seis-
mic Design Category D , D, or D 2 .
R404.1.2.3.2 Concrete mixing and delivery. Mix-
ing and delivery of concrete shall comply with
ASTM C 94 or ASTM C 685.
R404.1.2.3.3 Maximum aggregate size. The nomi-
nal maximum size of coarse aggregate shall not
exceed one-fifth the narrowest distance between
sides of forms, or three-fourths the clear spacing
between reinforcing bars or between a bar and the
side of the form.
Exception: When approved, these limitations
shall not apply where removable forms are used
and workability and methods of consolidation
permit concrete to be placed without honeycombs
or voids.
R404. 1.2.3.4 Proportioning and slump of con-
crete. Proportions of materials for concrete shall be
established to provide workability and consistency
to permit concrete to be worked readily into forms
and around reinforcement under conditions of place-
ment to be employed, without segregation or exces-
sive bleeding. Slump of concrete placed in
removable forms shall not exceed 6 inches (152
mm).
Exception: When approved, the slump is permit-
ted to exceed 6 inches (152 mm) for concrete
mixtures that are resistant to segregation, and are
in accordance with the form manufacturer' s rec-
ommendations.
TABLE R404.1. 2(2)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT FOR 6-INCH NOMINAL FLAT CONCRETE BASEMENT WALLS" c ' de ' 9 ' hu
MAXIMUM UNSUPPORTED
WALL HEIGHT
(feet)
MAXIMUM UNBALANCED
BACKFILL HEIGHT'
(feet)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT-BAR SIZE AND SPACING (inches)
Soil classes* and design lateral soil (psf per foot of depth)
GW, GP, SW, SP
30
GM, GC, SM, SM-SC and ML
45
SC, ML-CL and inorganic CL
60
8
4
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
6@39
6@48
6
5 @39
6@48
6@35
7
6@48
6@34
6@25
8
6@39
6@25
6@ 18
9
4
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
5 @ 37
6@48
6
5 @ 36
6@44
6@32
7
6@47
6@30
6@22
8
6@34
6@22
6 @ 16
9
6@27
6@ 17
DR
10
4
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
5 @ 35
6@48
6
6@48
6 @ 41
6@30
7
6@43
6@28
6@20
8
6 @ 31
6@20
DR
9
6@24
6@ 15
DR
10
6@ 19
DR
DR
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm; 1 inch = 25.4 mm; 1 pound per square foot per foot = 0.1571 kPa 2 /m, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
NR = Not required.
a. Soil classes are in accordance with the Unified Soil Classification System. Refer to Table R405.1.
b. Table values are based on reinforcing bars with a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi
and vertical reinforcement being located at the centerline of the wall. See Section R404.1 .2.3.7.2.
c. Vertical reinforcement with a yield strength of less than 60,000 psi and/or bars of a different size than specified in the table are permitted in accordance with
Section R404.1.2.3.7.6 and Table R404. 1.2(9).
d. Deflection criterion is L/240, where L is the height of the basement wall in inches.
e. Interpolation is not permitted.
f. Where walls will retain 4 feet or more of unbalanced backfill, they shall be laterally supported at the top and bottom before backfilling.
g. NR indicates no vertical wall reinforcement is required, except for 6-inch-nominal walls formed with stay-in-place forming systems in which case vertical
reinforcement shall be No. 4@48 inches on center.
h. See Section R404. 1.2.2 for minimum reinforcement required for basement walls supporting above-grade concrete walls.
i. See Table R61 1 .3 for tolerance from nominal thickness permitted for flat walls.
j. DR means design is required in accordance with the applicable building code, or where there is no code, in accordance with ACI 318.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
97
FOUNDATIONS
Slump of concrete placed in stay-in-place forms
shall exceed 6 inches (152 mm). Slump of concrete
shall be determined in accordance with ASTM C
143.
R404.1.2.3.5 Consolidation of concrete. Concrete
shall be consolidated by suitable means during
placement and shall be worked around embedded
items and reinforcement and into corners of forms.
Where stay-in-place forms are used, concrete shall
be consolidated by internal vibration.
Exception: When approved for concrete to be
placed in stay-in-place forms, self-consolidating
concrete mixtures with slumps equal to or greater
than 8 inches (203 mm) that are specifically
designed for placement without internal vibration
need not be internally vibrated.
R404.1.2.3.6 Form materials and form ties. Forms
shall be made of wood, steel, aluminum, plastic, a
composite of cement and foam insulation, a compos-
ite of cement and wood chips, or other approved
material suitable for supporting and containing con-
crete. Forms shall provide sufficient strength to con-
tain concrete during the concrete placement
operation.
Form ties shall be steel, solid plastic, foam plas-
tic, a composite of cement and wood chips, a com-
posite of cement and foam plastic, or other suitable
material capable of resisting the forces created by
fluid pressure of fresh concrete.
R404.1.2.3.6.1 Stay-in-place forms. Stay in
place concrete forms shall comply with this sec-
tion.
1 . Surface burning characteristics. The flame-
spread index and smoke-developed index
of forming material, other than foam plas-
tic, left exposed on the interior shall com-
ply with Section R302. The surface burning
characteristics of foam plastic used in insu-
TABLER404.1.2(3)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT FOR 8-INCH (203 mm) NOMINAL FLAT CONCRETE BASEMENT WALLS"''
MAXIMUM UNSUPPORTED
WALL HEIGHT
(feet)
MAXIMUM UNBALANCED
BACKFILL HEIGHT 9
(feet)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT-BAR SIZE AND SPACING (inches)
Soil classes" and design lateral soil (psf per foot of depth)
GW, GP, SW, SP
30
GM, GC, SM, SM-SC and ML
45
SC, ML-CL and inorganic CL
60
8
4
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
NR
NR
6
NR
NR
6@37
7
NR
6@36
6@35
8
6 @ 41
6@35
6@26
9
4
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
NR
NR
6
NR
NR
6 @ 35
7
NR
6@35
6@32
8
6@36
6@32
6@23
9
6@ 35
6@25
6@ 18
10
4
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
NR
NR
6
NR
NR
6@35
7
NR
6@ 35
6@29
8
6@35
6@29
6@21
9
6@34
6@22
6@ 16
10
6@27
6@ 17
6@ 13
psi
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm; 1 inch = 25.4 mm; 1 pound per square foot per foot = 0.1571 kPa 2 /m, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
NR = Not required.
a. Soil classes are in accordance with the Unified Soil Classification System. Refer to Table R405. 1 .
b. Table values are based on reinforcing bars with a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi, concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2 500 ps
and vertical reinforcement being located at the centerline of the wall. See Section R404.1 .2.3.7.2.
c. Vertical reinforcement with a yield strength of less than 60,000 psi and/or bars of a different size than specified in the table are permitted in accordance with
Section R404. 1 .2.3.7.6 and Table R404. 1 .2(9).
d. NR indicates no vertical reinforcement is required.
e. Deflection criterion is i/240, where L is the height of the basement wall in inches.
f. Interpolation is not permitted.
g. Where walls will retain 4 feet or more of unbalanced backfill, they shall be laterally supported at the top and bottom before backfilling,
h. See Section R404.1.2.2 for minimum reinforcement required for basement walls supporting above-grade concrete walls.
i. See Table R6 1 1 .3 for tolerance from nominal thickness permitted for flat walls.
98
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FOUNDATIONS
lating concrete forms shall comply with
Section R3 16.3.
2. Interior covering. Stay-in-place forms con-
structed of rigid foam plastic shall be pro-
tected on the interior of the building as
required by Section R316. Where gypsum
board is used to protect the foam plastic, it
shall be installed with a mechanical fasten-
ing system. Use of adhesives in addition to
mechanical fasteners is permitted.
3. Exterior wall covering. Stay-in-place forms
constructed of rigid foam plastics shall be
protected from sunlight and physical dam-
age by the application of an approved exte-
rior wall covering complying with this
code. Exterior surfaces of other stay-in-
place forming systems shall be protected in
accordance with this code.
Termite hazards. Tn areas where hazard of
termite damage is very heavy in accordance
with Figure R301.2(6), foam plastic insula-
tion shall be permitted below grade on
foundation walls in accordance with one of
the following conditions:
4.1. Where in addition to the
requirements in Section R318.1, an
approved method of protecting the
foam plastic and structure from
subterranean termite damage is
provided.
4.2. The structural members of walls,
floors, ceilings and roofs are entirely
of noncombustible materials or
pressure-preservative-treated wood.
4.3. On the interior side of basement
walls.
TABLE R404.1.2(4)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT FOR 10-INCH NOMINAL FLAT CONCRETE BASEMENT WALLS b ' cd ' e ' ,hJ
MAXIMUM UNSUPPORTED
WALL HEIGHT
(feet)
MAXIMUM UNBALANCED
BACKFILL HEIGHT 8
(feet)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT-BAR SIZE AND SPACING (inches)
Soil classes 9 and design lateral soil (psf per foot of depth)
GW, GP, SW, SP
30
GM, GC, SM, SM-SC and ML
45
SC, ML-CL and inorganic CL
60
8
4
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
NR
NR
6
NR
NR
NR
7
NR
NR
NR
8
6@48
6@35
6@28
9
4
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
NR
NR
6
NR
NR
NR
7
NR
NR
6 @ 31
8
NR
6@31
6@28
9
6@37
6@28
6@24
10
4
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
NR
NR
6
NR
NR
NR
7
NR
NR
6@28
8
NR
6@28
6 @28
9
6@ 33
6@28
6 @ 21
10
6@28
6@23
6@ 17
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm; 1 inch = 25.4 mm; 1 pound per square foot per foot = 0.1571 kPa 2 /m, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
NR = Not required.
a. Soil classes are in accordance with the Unified Soil Classification System. Refer to Table R405.1.
b. Table values are based on reinforcing bars with a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi
and vertical reinforcement being located at the centerline of the wall. See Section R404. 1.2.3.7.2.
c. Vertical reinforcement with a yield strength of less than 60,000 psi and/or bars of a different size than specified in the table are permitted in accordance with
Section R404. 1 .2.3.7.6 and Table R404. 1 .2(9).
d. NR indicates no vertical reinforcement is required.
e. Deflection criterion is L/240, where L is the height of the basement wall in inches.
f. Interpolation is not permitted.
g. Where walls will retain 4 feet or more of unbalanced backfill, they shall be laterally supported at the top and bottom before backfilling,
h. See Section R404.1 .2.2 for minimum reinforcement required for basement walls supporting above-grade concrete walls.
i. See Table R61 1.3 for tolerance from nominal thickness permitted for flat walls.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
99
FOUNDATIONS
5. Flat ICF wall system forms shall conform
to ASTM E 2634.
R404.1. 2.3.7 Reinforcement.
R404.1, 2.3.7.1 Steel reinforcement. Steel rein-
forcement shall comply with the requirements of
ASTM A 615, A 706, or A 996. ASTM A 996
bars produced from rail steel shall be Type R. In
buildings assigned to Seismic Design Category
A, B or C, the minimum yield strength of rein-
forcing steel shall be 40,000 psi (Grade 40) (276
MPa). In buildings assigned to Seismic Design
Category D , D, or D 2 , reinforcing steel shall
comply with the requirements of ASTM A 706
for low-alloy steel with a minimum yield strength
of 60,000 psi (Grade 60) (414 MPa).
R404.1.2.3.7.2 Location of reinforcement in
wall. The center of vertical reinforcement in
basement walls determined from Tables
R404. 1.2(2) through R404. 1.2(7) shall be located
at the centerline of the wall. Vertical reinforce-
ment in basement walls determined from Table
R404. 1.2(8) shall be located to provide a maxi-
mum cover of 1.25 inches (32 mm) measured
from the inside face of the wall. Regardless of the
table used to determine vertical wall reinforce-
ment, the center of the steel shall not vary from
the specified location by more than the greater of
10 percent of the wall thickness and V 8 -inch (10
mm). Horizontal and vertical reinforcement shall
be located in foundation walls to provide the min-
imum cover required by Section R404. 1.2.3.7.4.
R404. 1.2.3.7.3 Wall openings. Vertical wall
reinforcement required by Section R404. 1.2.2
that is interrupted by wall openings shall have
additional vertical reinforcement of the same size
placed within 12 inches (305 mm) of each side of
the opening.
R404.1.2.3.7.4 Support and cover. Reinforce-
ment shall be secured in the proper location in the
forms with tie wire or other bar support system to
prevent displacement during the concrete place-
ment operation. Steel reinforcement in concrete
TABLE R404.1. 2(5)
MINIMUM VERTICAL WALL REINFORCEMENT FOR 6-INCH WAFFLE-GRID BASEMENT WALLS"' ■=■<•■ e - a- h - '
MAXIMUM UNSUPPORTED
WALL HEIGHT
(feet)
MAXIMUM UNBALANCED
BACKFILL HEIGHT
(feet)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT-BAR SIZE AND SPACING (inches)
Soil classes" and design lateral soil (psf per foot of depth)
GW, GP, SW, SP
30
GM, GC, SM, SM-SC and ML
45
SC, ML-CL and inorganic CL
60
8
4
4@48
4@46
6@39
5
4@45
5 @46
6@47
6
5 @45
6@40
DR
7
6@44
DR
DR
8
6@32
DR
DR
9
4
4@48
4@46
4@37
5
4@42
5 @43
6@44
6
5 @ 41
6@37
DR
7
6@39
DR
DR
>8
DR'
DR
DR
10
4
4@48
4@46
4@35
5
4@40
5 @40
6 @ 41
6
5@38
6@34
DR
7
6@36
DR
DR
>8
DR
DR
DR
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm; 1 inch = 25.4 mm; 1 pound per square foot per foot = 0.1571 kPa 2 /m, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
a. Soil classes are in accordance with the Unified Soil Classification System. Refer to Table R405.1.
b. Table values are based on reinforcing bars with a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi
and vertical reinforcement being located at the centerline of the wall. See Section R404.1. 2.3.7.2.
c. Maximum spacings shown are the values calculated for the specified bar size. Where the bar used is Grade 60 and the size specified in the table the actual
spacing in the wall shall not exceed a whole-number multiple of 12 inches (i.e., 12, 24, 36 and 48) that is less than or equal to the tabulated spacing Vertical
reinforcement with a yield strength of less than 60,000 psi and/or bars of a different size than specified in the table are permitted in accordance with Section
R404.1 .2.3.7.6 and Table R404. 1.2(9).
d. Deflection criterion is L/240, where L is the height of the basement wall in inches.
e. Interpolation is not permitted.
f. Where walls will retain 4 feet or more of unbalanced backfill, they shall be laterally supported at the top and bottom before backfilling.
g. See Section R404.1.2.2 for minimum reinforcement required for basement walls supporting above-grade concrete walls,
h. See Table R61 1 .3 for thicknesses and dimensions of waffle-grid walls.
i. DR means design is required in accordance with the applicable building code, or where there is no code, in accordance with ACI 318.
100
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
cast against the earth shall have a minimum cover
of 3 inches (75 mm). Minimum cover for rein-
forcement in concrete cast in removable forms
that will be exposed to the earth or weather shall
be 1 V 2 inches (38 mm) for No. 5 bars and smaller,
and 2 inches (50 mm) for No. 6 bars and larger.
For concrete cast in removable forms that will not
be exposed to the earth or weather, and for con-
crete cast in stay-in-place forms, minimum cover
shall be 3 / 4 inch (19 mm). The minus tolerance for
cover shall not exceed the smaller of one-third
the required cover or 3 / g inch (10 mm).
R404.1.2.3.7.5 Lap splices. Vertical and hori-
zontal wall reinforcement shall be the longest
lengths practical. Where splices are necessary in
reinforcement, the length of lap splice shall be in
FOUNDATIONS
accordance with Table R61 1.5.4.(1) and Figure
R61 1.5.4(1). The maximum gap between non-
contact parallel bars at a lap splice shall not
exceed the smaller of one-fifth the required lap
length and 6 inches (152 mm). See Figure
R61 1.5.4(1).
R404. 1.2.3.7.6 Alternate grade of reinforce-
ment and spacing. Where tables in Section
R404.1.2.2 specify vertical wall reinforcement
based on minimum bar size and maximum spac-
ing, which are based on Grade 60 (414 MPa)
steel reinforcement, different size bars and/or
bars made from a different grade of steel are per-
mitted provided an equivalent area of steel per
linear foot of wall is provided. Use of Table
R404. 1.2(9) is permitted to determine the maxi-
mum bar spacing for different bar sizes than
TABLE R404.1 .2(6)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT FOR 8-INCH WAFFLE-GRID BASEMENT WALLS' 3
c, d, e, f, h, i, 1
MAXIMUM UNSUPPORTED
WALL HEIGHT
(feet)
MAXIMUM UNBALANCED
BACKFILL HEIGHT 9
(feel)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT-BAR SIZE AND SPACING (inches)
Soil classes" and design lateral soil (psf per foot of depth)
GW, GP, SW, SP
30
GM, GC, SM, SM-SC and ML
45
SC, ML-CL and inorganic CL
60
8
4
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
5 @48
5 @46
6
5 @48
5@43
6@45
7
5 @46
6@43
6 @ 31
8
6@48
6@32
6@23
9
4
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
5 @47
5 @46
6
5@46
5@39
6 @ 41
7
5@42
6 @ 38
6@28
8
6@44
6@28
6@20
9
6@34
6 @ 21
DR
10
4
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
5 @46
5 @44
6
5 @46
5@37
6@38
7
5 @38
6@35
6@25
8
6@39
6@25
DR
9
6@ 30
DR
DR
10
6@24
DR
DR
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm; 1 inch = 25.4 ram; 1 pound per square foot per foot = 0.1571 kPaVm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
NR = Not required.
a. Soil classes are in accordance with the Unified Soil Classification System. Refer to Table R405.1 .
b. Table values are based on reinforcing bars with a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi
and vertical reinforcement being located at the centerline of the wall. See Section R404. 1.2.3.7.2.
c. Maximum spacings shown are the values calculated for the specified bar size. Where the bar used is Grade 60 (420 MPa) and the size specified in the table, the
actual spacing in the wall shall not exceed a whole-number multiple of 12 inches (i.e., 12, 24, 36 and 48) that is less than or equal to the tabulated spacing.
Vertical reinforcement with a yield strength of less than 60,000 psi and/or bars of a different size than specified in the table are permitted in accordance with
Section R404.1. 2.3.7.6 and Table R404. 1.2(9).
d. NR indicates no vertical reinforcement is required.
e. Deflection criterion is 1/240, where I is the height of the basement wall in inches.
f. Interpolation shall not be permitted.
g. Where walls will retain 4 feet or more of unbalanced backfill, they shall be laterally supported at the top and bottom before backfilling.
h. See Section R404. 1 .2.2 for minimum reinforcement required for basement walls supporting above-grade concrete walls.
i. See Table R61 1 .3 for thicknesses and dimensions of waffle-grid walls.
j. DR means design is required in accordance with the applicable building code, or where there is no code, in accordance with ACI 318.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
101
FOUNDATIONS
specified in the tables and/or bars made from a
different grade of steel. Bars shall not be spaced
less than one-half the wall thickness, or more
than 48 inches (1219 mm) on center.
R404.1.2.3.7.7 Standard hooks. Where rein-
forcement is required by this code to terminate
with a standard hook, the hook shall comply with
Section R61 1 .5.4.5 and Figure R61 1 .5.4(3).
R404.1.2.3.7.8 Construction joint reinforce-
ment. Construction joints in foundation walls
shall be made and located to not impair the
strength of the wall. Construction joints in plain
concrete walls, including walls required to have
not less than No. 4 bars at 48 inches (1219 mm)
on center by Sections R404. 1.2.2 and R404. 1.4.2,
shall be located at points of lateral support, and a
minimum of one No. 4 bar shall extend across the
construction joint at a spacing not to exceed 24
inches (610 mm) on center. Construction joint
reinforcement shall have a minimum of 12 inches
(305 mm) embedment on both sides of the joint.
Construction joints in reinforced concrete walls
shall be located in the middle third of the span
between lateral supports, or located and con-
structed as required for joints in plain concrete
walls.
Exception: Use of vertical wall reinforcement
required by this code is permitted in lieu of
construction joint reinforcement provided the
spacing does not exceed 24 inches (610 mm),
or the combination of wall reinforcement and
No.4 bars described above does not exceed 24
inches (610 mm).
R404. 1.2.3.8 Exterior wall coverings. Require-
ments for installation of masonry veneer, stucco and
other wall coverings on the exterior of concrete
walls and other construction details not covered in
this section shall comply with the requirements of
this code.
TABLE R404.1. 2(7)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT FOR 6-INCH (152 mm) SCREEN-GRID BASEMENT WALLS bc ' d ' e ' 9 '"' '
MAXIMUM UNSUPPORTED
WALL HEIGHT
(feet)
MAXIMUM UNBALANCED
BACKFILL HEIGHT'
(feet)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT-BAR SIZE AND SPACING (inches)
Soil classes" and design lateral soil (psf per foot of depth)
GW, GP, SW, SP
30
GM, GC, SM, SM-SC and ML
45
SC, ML-CL and inorganic CL
60
8
4
4@48
4@48
5 @43
5
4@48
5 @48
5@37
6
5 @48
6@45
6@ 32
7
6@48
DR
DR
8
6@ 36
DR
DR
9
4
4@48
4@48
4@41
5
4@48
5 @48
6@48
6
5 @ 45
6@41
DR
7
6@43
DR
DR
>8
DR
DR
DR
10
4
4@48
4@48
4@ 39
5
4@44
5 @44
6@46
6
5 @42
6@38
DR
7
6@40
DR
DR
>8
DR
DR
DR
For SI: I. foot = 304.8 mm; 1 inch = 25.4 mm; 1 pound per square foot per foot = 0.1571 kPa 2 /m, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
a. Soil classes are in accordance with the Unified Soil Classification System. Refer to Table R405.1.
b. Table values are based on reinforcing bars with a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi, concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi
and vertical reinforcement being located at the centerline of the wall. See Section R404. 1 .2.3.7.2.
c. Maximum spacings shown are the values calculated for the specified bar size. Where the bar used is Grade 60 and the size specified in the table, the actual
spacing in the wall shall not exceed a whole-number multiple of 12 inches (i.e., 12, 24, 36 and 48) that is less than or equal to the tabulated spacing. Vertical
reinforcement with a yield strength of less than 60,000 psi and/or bars of a different size than specified in the table are permitted in accordance with Section
R404.1.2.3.7.6 and Table R404.1 .2(9).
d. Deflection criterion is L/240, where L is the height of the basement wall in inches.
e. Interpolation is not permitted.
f. Where walls will retain 4 feet or more of unbalanced backfill, they shall be laterally supported at the top and bottom before backfilling.
g. See Sections R404. 1 .2.2 for minimum reinforcement required for basement walls supporting above-grade concrete walls,
h. See Table R61 1 .3 for thicknesses and dimensions of screen-grid walls.
i. DR means design is required in accordance with the applicable building code, or where there is no code, in accordance with ACI 318.
102
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FOUNDATIONS
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT FOR 6-
TABLE R404.1. 2(8)
8-, 10-INCH AND 12-INCH NOMINAL FLAT BASEMENT WALLS"
,:. d, e, f, h, i, k
, 1
MAXIMUM
WALL
HEIGHT
(feet)
MAXIMUM
UNBALANCED
BACKFILL
HEIGHT 9
(feet)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT-BAR SIZE AND SPACING (inches)
Soil classes" and design lateral soil (psf per foot of depth)
GW, GP, SW, SP GM, GC, SM, SM-SC and ML
30 45
SC, ML-CL and inorganic CL
60
Minimum nominal wall thickness (inches)
6
8
10
12
6
8
10
12
6
8
10
12
5
4
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
6
4
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR 1
NR
NR
4 @ 35
NR'
NR
NR
6
NR
NR
NR
NR
5 @48
NR
NR
NR
5 @ 36
NR
NR
NR
7
4
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
5 @47
NR
NR
NR
6
NR
NR
NR
NR
5 @42
NR
NR
NR
6@43
5 @48
NR'
NR
7
5 @ 46
NR
NR
NR
6@42
5 @46
NR'
NR
6@34
6@48
NR
NR
8
4
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
NR
NR
NR
4@ 38
NR 1
NR
NR
5@43
NR
NR
NR
6
4@ 37
NR 1
NR
NR
5 @37
NR
NR
NR
6@ 37
5 @43
NR'
NR
7
5 @>40
NR
NR
NR
6 @ 37
5 @41
NR'
NR
6@ 34
6@43
NR
NR
8
6 @43
5 @47
NR'
NR
6@34
6 @43
NR
NR
6@27
6 @32
6@44
NR
9
4
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
NR
NR
NR
4@ 35
NR'
NR
NR
5 @40
NR
NR
NR
6
4@34
NR'
NR
NR
6@48
NR
NR
NR
6@36
6@39
NR'
NR
7
5 @ 36
NR
NR
NR
6@34
5 @ 37
NR
NR
6@ 33
6 @ 38
5 @ 37
NR'
8
6@ 38
5 @ 41
NR 1
NR
6 @ 33
6@ 38
5 @37
NR'
6@24
6@29
6@39
4 @ 48 m
9
6@34
6 @46
NR
NR
6@26
6@30
6@41
NR
6@ 19
6@23
6@30
6@39
10
4
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
5
NR
NR
NR
NR
4@ 33
NR 1
NR
NR
5 @ 38
NR
NR
NR
6
5 @48
NR 1
NR
NR
6@45
NR
NR
NR
6@ 34
5 @37
NR
NR
7
6@47
NR
NR
NR
6@ 34
6 @48
NR
NR
6@ 30
6 @ 35
6@48
NR'
8
6@ 34
5 @38
NR
NR | 6 @ 30
6@ 34
6 @47
NR'
6@22
6@26
6@35
6 @ 45 m
9
6@34
6 @ 41
4 @48
NR 1
6@23
6@27
6 @ 35
4 @ 48 m
DR
6 @22
6@27
6@34
10
6 @28
6@33
6@45
NR
DR j
6 @23
6@29
6@ 38
DR
6@22
6@ 22
6@ 28
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm; 1 inch = 25.4 mm; I pound per square foot per foot = 0.157 1 kPa 2 /m, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
NR = Not required.
a. Soil classes are in accordance with the Unified Soil Classification System. Refer to Table R405.1.
b. Table values are based on reinforcing bars with a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi.
c. Vertical reinforcement with a yield strength of less than 60,000 psi and/or bars of a different size than specified in the table are permitted in accordance with
Section R404. 1.2.3.7.6 and Table R404. 1.2(9).
d. NR indicates no vertical wall reinforcement is required, except for 6-inch nominal walls formed with stay-in-place forming systems in which case vertical
reinforcement shall be #4@48 inches on center.
e. Allowable deflection criterion is Z./240, where L is the unsupported height of the basement wall in inches.
f. Interpolation is not permitted.
g. Where walls will retain 4 feet or more of unbalanced backfill, they shall be laterally supported at the top and bottom before backfilling.
h. Vertical reinforcement shall be located to provide a cover of 1 .25 inches measured from the inside face of the wall. The center of the steel shall not vary from
the specified location by more than the greater of 10 percent of the wall thickness or 3 / 8 -inch.
i. Concrete cover for reinforcement measured from the inside face of the wall shall not be less than V 4 -inch. Concrete cover for reinforcement measured from
the outside face of the wall shall not be less than 1 7 2 inches for No. 5 bars and smaller, and not less than 2 inches for larger bars,
j. DR means design is required in accordance with the applicable building code, or where there is no code in accordance with AC1 318.
k. Concrete shall have a specified compressive strength,/,, of not less than 2,500 psi at 28 days, unless a higher strength is required by footnote 1 or m.
I. The minimum thickness is permitted to be reduced 2 inches, provided the minimum specified compressive strength of concrete,/',,, is 4,000 psi.
m. A plain concrete wall with a minimum nominal thickness of 12 inches is permitted, provided minimum specified compressive strength of concrete,/ ' r , is
3,500 psi.
n. See Table R61 1.3 for tolerance from nominal thickness permitted for flat walls.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
103
FOUNDATIONS
TABLE R404.1. 2(9)
MINIMUM SPACING FOR ALTERNATE BAR SIZE AND/OR ALTERNATE GRADE OF STEEL ab
c
BAR SPACING FROM
APPLICABLE TABLE IN
SECTION R404.1.2.2
(inches)
BAR SIZE FROM APPLICABLE TABLE IN SECTION R404.1.2.2
#4
#5
#6
Alternate bar size and/or alternate grade of steel desired
Grade 60
Grade 40
Grade 60
Grade 40
Grade 60
Grade 40
#5
#6
#4
#5
#6
#4
#6
#4
#5
#6
#4
#5
#4
#5
#6
Maximum spacing for alternate bar size and/or alternate grade of steel (inches)
8
12
18
5
8
12
5
11
3
5
8
4
6
2
4
5
9
14
20
6
9
13
6
13
4
6
9
4
6
3
4
6
10
16
22
7
10
15
6
14
4
7
9
5
7
3
5
7
11
17
24
7
11
16
7
16
5
7
10
5
8
3
5
7
12
19
26
8
12
18
8
17
5
8
11
5
8
4
6
8
13
20
29
9
13
19
8
18
6
9
12
6
9
4
6
9
14
22
31
9
14
21
9
20
6
9
13
6
10
4
7
9
15
23
33
10
16
22
10
21
6
10
14
7
11
5
7
10
16
25
35
11
17
23
10
23
7
11
15
7
11
5
8
11
17
26
37
11
18
25
u
24
7
11
16
8
12
5
8
11
18
28
40
12
19
26
12
26
8
12
17
8
13
5
8
12
19
29
42
13
20
28
12
27
8
13
18
9
13
6
9
13
20
31
44
13
21
29
13
28
9
13
19
9
14
6
9
13
21
33
46
14
22
31
14
30
9
14
20
10
15
6
10
14
22
34
48
15
23
32
14
31
9
15
21
10
16
7
10
15
23
36
48
15
24
34
15
33
10
15
22
10
16
7
11
15
24
37
48
16
25
35
15
34
10
16
23
11
17
7
11
16
25
39
48
17
26
37
16
35
11
17
24
11
18
8
12
17
26
40
48
17
27
38
17
37
11
17
25
12
18
8
12
17
27
42
48
18
28
40
17
38
12
18
26
12
19
8
13
18
28
43
48
19
29
41
18
40
12
19
26
13
20
8
13
19
29
45
48
19
30
43
19
41
12
19
27
13
20
9
14
19
30
47
48
20
31
44
19
43
13
20
28
14
21
9
14
20
31
48
48
21
32
45
20
44
13
21
29
14
22
9
15
21
32
48
48
21
33
47
21
45
14
21
30
15
23
10
15
21
33
48
48
22
34
48
21
47
14
22
31
15
23
10
16
22
34
48
48
23
35
48
22
48
15
23
32
15
24
10
16
23
35
48
48
23
36
48
23
48
15
23
33
16
25
11
16
23
36
48
48
24
37
48
23
48
15
24
34
16
25
11
17
24
37
48
48
25
38
48
24
48
16
25
35
17
26
11
17
25
38
48
48
25
39
48
25
48
16
25
36
17
27
12
18
25
39
48
48
26
40
48
25
48
17
26
37
18
27
12
18
26
40
48
48
27
41
48
26
48
17
27
38
18
28
12
19
27
41
48
48
27
42
48
26
48
18
27
39
19
29
12
19
27
42
48
48
28
43
48
27
48
18
28
40
19
30
13
20
28
43
48
48
29
44
48
28
48
18
29
41
20
30
13
20
29
44
48
48
29
45
48
28
48
19
29
42
20
31
13
21
29
45
48
48
30
47
48
29
48
19
30
43
20
32
14
21
30
46
48
48
31
48
48
30
48
20
31
44
21
32
14
22
31
47
48
48
31
48
48
30
48
20
31
44
21
33
14
22
31
48
48
48
32
48
48
31
48
21
32
45
22
34
15
23
32
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
a. This table is for use with tables in Section R404.1 .2.2 that specify the minimum bar size and maximum spacing of vertical wall reinforcement for foundation
walls and above-grade walls. Reinforcement specified in tables in Sections R404. 1.2.2 is based on Grade 60 steel reinforcement.
b. Bar spacing shall not exceed 48 inches on center and shall not be less than one-half the nominal wall thickness.
c. For Grade 50 steel bars (ASTM A 996, Type R), use spacing for Grade 40 bars or interpolate between Grades 40 and 60.
104
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FOUNDATIONS
R404.1.2.4 Requirements for Seismic Design Cate-
gory C. Concrete foundation walls supporting above-
grade concrete walls in townhouses assigned to Seismic
Design Category C shall comply with ACI 318, ACI
332 or PCA 100 (see Section R404.1.2).
R404.1.3 Design required. Concrete or masonry founda-
tion walls shall be designed in accordance with accepted
engineering practice when either of the following condi-
tions exists:
1. Walls are subject to hydrostatic pressure from
groundwater.
2. Walls supporting more than 48 inches (1219 mm) of
unbalanced backfill that do not have permanent lat-
eral support at the top or bottom.
R404.1.4 Seismic Design Category D , Dj or D,.
R404.1.4.1 Masonry foundation walls. In addition to
the requirements of Table R404.1.1(l) plain masonry
foundation walls in buildings assigned to Seismic
Design Category D , D, or D 2 , as established in Table
R301.2(l), shall comply with the following.
1. Wall height shall not exceed 8 feet (2438 mm).
2. Unbalanced backfill height shall not exceed 4
feet (1219 mm).
3. Minimum nominal thickness for plain masonry
foundation walls shall be 8 inches (203 mm).
4. Masonry stem walls shall have a minimum verti-
cal reinforcement of one No. 3 (No. 10) bar
located a maximum of 4 feet (1219 mm) on cen-
ter in grouted cells. Vertical reinforcement shall
be tied to the horizontal reinforcement in the
footings.
Foundation walls in buildings assigned to Seismic
Design Category D , D, or D 2 , as established in Table
R301.2(l), supporting more than 4 feet (1219 mm) of
unbalanced backfill or exceeding 8 feet (2438 mm) in
height shall be constructed in accordance with Table
R404.1.1(2), R404. 1.1(3) or R404.1.1(4). Masonry
foundation walls shall have two No. 4 (No. 13) hori-
zontal bars located in the upper 1 2 inches (305 mm) of
the wall.
R404.1.4.2 Concrete foundation walls. In buildings
assigned to Seismic Design Category D , D, or D 2 , as
established in Table R301.2(l), concrete foundation
walls that support light-frame walls shall comply with
this section, and concrete foundation walls that support
above- grade concrete walls shall comply with ACI 318,
ACI 332 or PCA 100 (see Section R404.1.2). In addi-
tion to the horizontal reinforcement required by Table
R404. 1.2(1), plain concrete walls supporting light-
frame walls shall comply with the following.
1 . Wall height shall not exceed 8 feet (2438 mm).
2. Unbalanced backfill height shall not exceed 4
feet (1219 mm).
3. Minimum thickness for plain concrete foundation
walls shall be 7.5 inches (191 mm) except that 6
inches (152 mm) is permitted where the maxi-
mum wall height is 4 feet, 6 inches (1 372 mm).
Foundation walls less than 7.5 inches (191 mm) in
thickness, supporting more than 4 feet (1219 mm) of
unbalanced backfill or exceeding 8 feet (2438 mm) in
height shall be provided with horizontal reinforcement
in accordance with Table R404. 1.2(1), and vertical
reinforcement in accordance with Table R404. 1.2(2),
R404. 1.2(3), R404. 1.2(4), R404. 1.2(5), R404. 1.2(6),
R404. 1.2(7) or R404.1.2(8). Where Tables R404. 1.2(2)
through R404. 1.2(8) permit plain concrete walls, not
less than No. 4 (No. 1 3) vertical bars at a spacing not
exceeding 48 inches (1219 mm) shall be provided.
R404.1.5 Foundation wall thickness based on walls
supported. The thickness of masonry or concrete founda-
tion walls shall not be less than that required by Section
R404. 1.5.1 orR404.1.5.2, respectively.
R404.1.5J Masonry wall thickness. Masonry founda-
tion walls shall not be less than the thickness of the wall
supported, except that masonry foundation walls of at
least 8-inch (203 mm) nominal thickness shall be per-
mitted under brick veneered frame walls and under 10-
inch- wide (254 mm) cavity walls where the total height
of the wall supported, including gables, is not more
than 20 feet (6096 mm), provided the requirements of
Section R404.1 .1 are met.
R404.1.5.2 Concrete wall thickness. The thickness of
concrete foundation walls shall be equal to or greater
than the thickness of the wall in the story above. Con-
crete foundation walls with corbels, brackets or other
projections built into the wall for support of masonry
veneer or other purposes are not within the scope of the
tables in this section.
Where a concrete foundation wall is reduced in
thickness to provide a shelf for the support of masonry
veneer, the reduced thickness shall be equal to or
greater than the thickness of the wall in the story above.
Vertical reinforcement for the foundation wall shall be
based on Table R404. 1.2(8) and located in the wall as
required by Section R404.1. 2.3.7.2 where that table is
used. Vertical reinforcement shall be based on the
thickness of the thinner portion of the wall.
Exception: Where the height of the reduced thick-
ness portion measured to the underside of the floor
assembly or sill plate above is less than or equal to
24 inches (610 mm) and the reduction in thickness
does not exceed 4 inches (102 mm), the vertical
reinforcement is permitted to be based on the thicker
portion of the wall.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
105
FOUNDATIONS
R404. 1.5.3 Pier and curtain wall foundations. Use of
pier and curtain wall foundations shall be permitted to
support light-frame construction not more than two sto-
ries in height, provided the following requirements are
met:
1. All load-bearing walls shall be placed on continu-
ous concrete footings placed integrally with the
exterior wall footings.
2. The minimum actual thickness of a load-bearing
masonry wall shall be not less than 4 inches (102
mm) nominal or 3 3 / 8 inches (92 mm) actual thick-
ness, and shall be bonded integrally with piers
spaced in accordance with Section R606.9.
3. Piers shall be constructed in accordance with
Section R606.6 and Section R606.6.1, and shall
be bonded into the load-bearing masonry wall in
accordance with Section R608.1.1 or R608.1.1.2.
4. The maximum height of a 4-inch (102 mm) load-
bearing masonry foundation wall supporting
r _. GALVANIZED OR STAINLESS STEEL STRAPS,
MIN. 2V, 5 IN. WIDE BY 12 GAGE THICK,
\ MIN, 2 IN. FROM EDGE OF PIER, TYP.
PIERS SPACED NOT
"MORE THAN 6 FT 0.C,
X TYP.
MIN. NINE 16D NAILS
" PER STRAP
MIN. 8 IN. X 16 IN
MASONRY PIER, TYP.
MIN. TWO 9 GAGE BOX TIES
OR TWO MASONRY HEADERS
AT 8 IN. O.C. EACH PIER
STRAPS ANCHORED WITH 90 DEGREE HOOK, MIN.
TWO STRAPS PER PIER. MIN. 4 IN EMBEDMENT INTO
FOOTING, MIN. 1.75 IN. HORZ. LEG EXTENSION
DOUBLE RIM JOISTS
MIN. 18 GAGE PLATE
CONNECTORS AT
MAX. 12 IN O.C (TYP.
MIN. 4 IN. MASONRY
CURTAIN WALL
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 degree = 0.0175 rad.
FIGURE R404.1.5(1)
FOUNDATION WALL CLAY MASONRY CURTAIN WALL WITH CONCRETE MASONRY PIERS
106
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FOUNDATIONS
wood-frame walls and floors shall not be more
than 4 feet (1219 mm).
5. Anchorage shall be in accordance with Section
R403.1.6, Figure R404. 1.5(1), or as specified by
engineered design accepted by the building offi-
cial.
6. The unbalanced fill for 4-inch (102 mm) founda-
tion walls shall not exceed 24 inches (610 mm)
for solid masonry or 12 inches (305 mm) for hol-
low masonry.
7. In Seismic Design Categories D , D, and D 2 , pre-
scriptive reinforcement shall be provided in the
horizontal and vertical direction. Provide mini-
mum horizontal joint reinforcement of two No. 9
gage wires spaced not less than 6 inches (152
mm) or one 7 4 inch (6.4 mm) diameter wire at 10
inches (254 mm) on center vertically. Provide
minimum vertical reinforcement of one No. 4 bar
at 48 inches (1220 mm) on center horizontally
grouted in place.
R404.1.6 Height above finished grade. Concrete and
masonry foundation walls shall extend above the finished
grade adjacent to the foundation at all points a minimum
of 4 inches (102 mm) where masonry veneer is used and a
minimum of 6 inches (152 mm) elsewhere.
R404.1.7 Backfill placement. Backfill shall not be placed
against the wall until the wall has sufficient strength and
has been anchored to the floor above, or has been suffi-
ciently braced to prevent damage by the backfill.
Exception: Bracing is not required for walls supporting
less than 4 feet (1219 mm) of unbalanced backfill.
R404.1.8 Rubble stone masonry. Rubble stone masonry
foundation walls shall have a minimum thickness of 16
inches (406 mm), shall not support an unbalanced backfill
exceeding 8 feet (2438 mm) in height, shall not support a
soil pressure greater than 30 pounds per square foot per
foot (4.71 kPa/m), and shall not be constructed in Seismic
Design Categories D , D„ D 2 or townhouses in Seismic
Design Category C, as established in Figure R301 .2(2).
R404.1.9 Isolated masonry piers. Isolated masonry piers
shall be constructed in accordance with this section and
the general masonry construction requirements of Section
R606. Hollow masonry piers shall have a minimum nomi-
nal thickness of 8 inches (203 mm), with a nominal height
not exceeding four times the nominal thickness and a nom-
inal length not exceeding three times the nominal thick-
ness. Where hollow masonry units are solidly filled with
concrete or grout, piers shall be permitted to have a nomi-
nal height not exceeding ten times the nominal thickness.
Footings for isolated masonry piers shall be sized in accor-
dance with Section R403.1.1.
R404.1.9.1 Pier cap. Hollow masonry piers shall be
capped with 4 inches (102 mm) of solid masonry or
concrete, a masonry cap block, or shall have cavities of
the top course filled with concrete or grout. Where
required, termite protection for the pier cap shall be
provided in accordance with Section R318.
R404. 1.9.2 Masonry piers supporting floor girders.
Masonry piers supporting wood girders sized in accor-
dance with Tables R502.5(l) and R502.5(2) shall be
permitted in accordance with this section. Piers sup-
porting girders for interior bearing walls shall have a
minimum nominal dimension of 12 inches (305 mm)
and a maximum height of 10 feet (3048 mm) from top
of footing to bottom of sill plate or girder. Piers sup-
porting girders for exterior bearing walls shall have a
minimum nominal dimension of 12 inches (305 mm)
and a maximum height of 4 feet (1220 mm) from top of
footing to bottom of sill plate or girder. Girders and sill
plates shall be anchored to the pier or footing in accor-
dance with Section R403.1.6 or Figure R404.1.5(l).
Floor girder bearing shall be in accordance with Sec-
tion R502.6.
R404.1.9.3 Masonry piers supporting braced wall
panels. Masonry piers supporting braced wall panels
shall be designed in accordance with accepted engi-
neering practice.
R404.1.9.4 Seismic design of masonry piers.
Masonry piers in all dwellings located in Seismic
Design Category D , D, or D 2 , and townhouses in Seis-
mic Design Category C, shall be designed in accor-
dance with accepted engineering practice.
R404. 1.9.5 Masonry piers in flood hazard areas.
Masonry piers for dwellings in flood hazard areas shall
be designed in accordance with Section R322.
R404.2 Wood foundation walls. Wood foundation walls
shall be constructed in accordance with the provisions of Sec-
tions R404.2.1 through R404.2.6 and with the details shown
in Figures R403.i(2) and R403.1(3).
R404.2.1 Identification. All load-bearing lumber shall be
identified by the grade mark of a lumber grading or
inspection agency which has been approved by an accredi-
tation body that complies with DOC PS 20. In lieu of a
grade mark, a certificate of inspection issued by a lumber
grading or inspection agency meeting the requirements of
this section shall be accepted. Wood structural panels shall
conform to DOC PS 1 or DOC PS 2 and shall be identified
by a grade mark or certificate of inspection issued by an
approved agency.
R404.2.2 Stud size. The studs used in foundation walls
shall be 2-inch by 6-inch (51 mm by 152 mm) members.
When spaced 16 inches (406 ram) on center, a wood spe-
cies with an F b value of not less than 1 ,250 pounds per
square inch (8619 kPa) as listed in AF&PA/NDS shall be
used. When spaced 12 inches (305 mm) on center, an F b of
not less than 875 psi (6033 kPa) shall be required.
R404.2.3 Height of backfill. For wood foundations that
are not designed and installed in accordance with AF&PA
PWF, the height of backfill against a foundation wall shall
not exceed 4 feet (1219 mm). When the height of fill is
more than 12 inches (305 mm) above the interior grade of
a crawl space or floor of a basement, the thickness of the
plywood sheathing shall meet the requirements of Table
R404.2.3.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE*
107
FOUNDATIONS
R404.2.4 Backfilling. Wood foundation walls shall not be
backfilled until the basement floor and first floor have
been constructed or the walls have been braced. For crawl
space construction, backfill or bracing shall be installed on
the interior of the walls prior to placing backfill on the
exterior.
R404.2.5 Drainage and dampproofing. Wood founda-
tion basements shall be drained and dampproofed in accor-
dance with Sections R405 and R406, respectively.
R404.2.6 Fastening. Wood structural panel foundation
wall sheathing shall be attached to framing in accordance
with Table R602.3(l) and Section R402.1.1.
R404.3 Wood sill plates. Wood sill plates shall be a mini-
mum of 2-inch by 4-inch (51 mm by 102 mm) nominal lum-
ber. Sill plate anchorage shall be in accordance with Sections
R403.1.6 and R602.ll.
R404.4 Retaining walls. Retaining walls that are not later-
ally supported at the top and that retain in excess of 24 inches
(610 mm) of unbalanced fill shall be designed to ensure sta-
bility against overturning, sliding, excessive foundation pres-
sure and water uplift. Retaining walls shall be designed for a
safety factor of 1 .5 against lateral sliding and overturning.
R404.5 Precast concrete foundation walls.
R404.5.1 Design. Precast concrete foundation walls shall
be designed in accordance with accepted engineering prac-
tice. The design and manufacture of precast concrete foun-
dation wall panels shall comply with the materials
requirements of Section R402.3 or ACI 318. The panel
design drawings shall be prepared by a registered design
professional where required by the statutes of the jurisdic-
tion in which the project is to be constructed in accordance
with Section R 106.1.
R404.5.2 Precast concrete foundation design drawings.
Precast concrete foundation wall design drawings shall be
submitted to the building official and approved prior to
installation. Drawings shall include, at a minimum, the
information specified below:
1 . Design loading as applicable;
2. Footing design and material;
TABLE R404.2.3
PLYWOOD GRADE AND THICKNESS FOR WOOD FOUNDATION CONSTRUCTION (30 pcf equivalent-fluid weight soil pressure)
HEIGHT OF FILL
(inches)
STUD SPACING
(inches)
FACE GRAIN ACROSS STUDS
FACE GRAIN PARALLEL TO STUDS
Grade 8
Minimum thickness
(inches)
Span rating
Grade"
Minimum thickness
(inches)"'
Span rating
24
12
B
L 7
'32
32/16
A
l5 /
'32
32/16
B
15/ c
'32
32/16
16
B
l5 /
'32
32/16
A
15, c
'32
32/16
B
'V(4,5ply)
40/20
36
12
B
'■V
'32
32/16
A
15,
'32
32/16
B
ls / H c (4,5ply)
32/16
B
% (4, 5 ply)
40/20
16
B
15/ c
32
32/16
A
19/
'32
40/20
B
%
48/24
48
12
B
%
32/16
A
L V
32/16
B
"V(4, 5 ply)
40/20
16
B
%
40/20
A
19/ c
32
40/20
A
23 /
32
48/24
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 ram, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per cubic foot = 0.1572 kN/m 3 .
a. Plywood shall be of the following minimum grades in accordance with DOC PS 1 or DOC PS 2:
1. DOC PS 1 Plywood grades marked:
1.1. Structural I C-D (Exposure 1 ).
1.2. C-D (Exposure 1).
2. DOC PS 2 Plywood grades marked:
2.1. Structural 1 Sheathing (Exposure 1).
2.2. Sheathing (Exposure 1).
3. Where a major portion of the wall is exposed above ground and a better appearance is desired, the following plywood grades marked exterior are suitable:
3.1. Structural I A-C, Structural I B-C or Structural I C-C (Plugged) in accordance with DOC PS 1.
3.2. A-C Group 1, B-C Group 1, C-C (Plugged) Group 1 or MDO Group 1 in accordance with DOC PS 1 .
3.3. Single Floor in accordance with DOC PS 1 or DOC PS 2.
b. Minimum thickness % inch, except crawl space sheathing may be 3 / 8 inch for face grain across studs 16 inches on center and maximum 2-foot depth of
unequal fill.
c. For this fill height, thickness and grade combination, panels that are continuous over less than three spans (across less than three stud spacings) require
blocking 16 inches above the bottom plate. Offset adjacent blocks and fasten through studs with two 16d corrosion-resistant nails at each end.
108
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FOUNDATIONS
3. Concentrated loads and their points of application;
4. Soil bearing capacity;
5. Maximum allowable total uniform load;
6. Seismic design category; and
7. Basic wind speed.
R404.5.3 Identification. Precast concrete foundation wall
panels shall be identified by a certificate of inspection
label issued by an approved third party inspection agency.
SECTION R405
FOUNDATION DRAINAGE
R405.1 Concrete or masonry foundations. Drains shall be
provided around all concrete or masonry foundations that
retain earth and enclose habitable or usable spaces located
below grade. Drainage tiles, gravel or crushed stone drains,
perforated pipe or other approved systems or materials shall
be installed at or below the area to be protected and shall dis-
charge by gravity or mechanical means into an approved
drainage system. Gravel or crushed stone drains shall extend
at least 1 foot (305 mm) beyond the outside edge of the foot-
ing and 6 inches (152 mm) above the top of the footing and
be covered with an approved filter membrane material. The
top of open joints of drain tiles shall be protected with strips
of building paper. Perforated drains shall be surrounded with
an approved filter membrane or the filter membrane shall
cover the washed gravel or crushed rock covering the drain.
Drainage tiles or perforated pipe shall be placed on a mini-
mum of 2 inches (5 1 mm) of washed gravel or crushed rock
at least one sieve size larger than the tile joint opening or per-
foration and covered with not less than 6 inches (152 mm) of
the same material.
Exception: A drainage system is not required when the
foundation is installed on well-drained ground or sand-
gravel mixture soils according to the Unified Soil Classifi-
cation System, Group 1 Soils, as detailed in Table R405.1.
R405.1.1 Precast concrete foundation. Precast concrete
walls that retain earth and enclose habitable or useable
space located below-grade that rest on crushed stone foot-
ings shall have a perforated drainage pipe installed below
the base of the wall on either the interior or exterior side of
the wall, at least one foot (305 mm) beyond the edge of the
wall. If the exterior drainage pipe is used, an approved fil-
ter membrane material shall cover the pipe. The drainage
system shall discharge into an approved sewer system or
to daylight.
R405.2 Wood foundations. Wood foundations enclosing
habitable or usable spaces located below grade shall be ade-
quately drained in accordance with Sections R405.2.1
through R405.2.3.
TABLE R405.1
PROPERTIES OF SOILS CLASSIFIED ACCORDING TO THE UNIFIED SOIL CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
SOIL
GROUP
UNIFIED SOIL
CLASSIFICATION
SYSTEM SYMBOL
SOIL DESCRIPTION
DRAINAGE
CHARACTERISTICS'
FROST HEAVE
POTENTIAL
VOLUME CHANGE
POTENTIAL
EXPANSION"
Group I
GW
Well-graded gravels, gravel sand mixtures, little or no
fines
Good
Low
Low
GP
Poorly graded gravels or gravel sand mixtures, little or
no fines
Good
Low
Low
sw
Well-graded sands, gravelly sands, little or no fines
Good
Low
Low
SP
Poorly graded sands or gravelly sands, little or no fines
Good
Low
Low
GM
Silty gravels, gravel-sand-silt mixtures
Good
Medium
Low
SM
Silty sand, sand-silt mixtures
Good
Medium
Low
Group II
GC
Clayey gravels, gravel-sand-clay mixtures
Medium
Medium
Low
SC
Clayey sands, sand-clay mixture
Medium
Medium
Low
ML
Inorganic silts and very fine sands, rock flour, silty or
clayey fine sands or clayey silts with slight plasticity
Medium
High
Low
CL
Inorganic clays of low to medium plasticity, gravelly
clays, sandy clays, silty clays, lean clays
Medium
Medium
Medium
to Low
Group III
CH
Inorganic clays of high plasticity, fat clays
Poor
Medium
High
MH
Inorganic silts, micaceous or diatomaceous fine sandy
or silty soils, elastic silts
Poor
High
High
Group IV
OL
Organic silts and organic silty clays of low plasticity
Poor
Medium
Medium
OH
Organic clays of medium to high plasticity, organic
silts
Unsatisfactory
Medium
High
Pt
Peat and other highly organic soils
Unsatisfactory
Medium
High
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. The percolation rate for good drainage is over 4 inches per hour, medium drainage is 2 inches to 4 inches per hour, and poor is less than 2 inches per hour.
b. Soils with a low potential expansion typically have a plasticity index (PI) of to 15, soils with a medium potential expansion have a PI of 10 to 35 and soils
with a high potential expansion have a PI greater than 20.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
109
FOUNDATIONS
R405.2.1 Base. A porous layer of gravel, crushed stone or
coarse sand shall be placed to a minimum thickness of 4
inches (102 mm) under the basement floor. Provision shall
be made for automatic draining of this layer and the gravel
or crushed stone wall footings.
R405.2.2 Vapor retarder. A 6-mil -thick (0.15 mm) poly-
ethylene vapor retarder shall be applied over the porous
layer with the basement floor constructed over the poly-
ethylene.
R405.2.3 Drainage system. In other than Group I soils, a
sump shall be provided to drain the porous layer and foot-
ings. The sump shall be at least 24 inches (610 mm) in
diameter or 20 inches square (0.0129 m 2 ), shall extend at
least 24 inches (610 mm) below the bottom of the base-
merit floor and shall be capable of positive gravity or
mechanical drainage to remove any accumulated water.
The drainage system shall discharge into an approved
sewer system or to daylight.
SECTION R406
FOUNDATION WATERPROOFING AND
DAMPPROOFING
R406.1 Concrete and masonry foundation dampproofing.
Except where required by Section R406.2 to be waterproofed,
foundation walls that retain earth and enclose interior spaces
and floors below grade shall be dampproofed from the top of
the footing to the finished grade. Masonry walls shall have
not less than V 8 inch (9.5 mm) portland cement parging
applied to the exterior of the wall. The parging shall be damp-
proofed in accordance with one of the following:
1 . Bituminous coating.
2. Three pounds per square yard (1.63 kg/m 2 ) of acrylic
modified cement.
3. One-eighth inch (3.2 mm) coat of surface-bonding
cement complying with ASTM C 887.
4. Any material permitted for waterproofing in Section
R406.2.
5. Other approved methods or materials.
Exception: Parging of unit masonry walls is not
required where a material is approved for direct appli-
cation to the masonry.
Concrete walls shall be dampproofed by applying any one
of the above listed dampproofing materials or any one of the
waterproofing materials listed in Section R406.2 to the exte-
rior of the wall.
R406.2 Concrete and masonry foundation waterproofing.
In areas where a high water table or other severe soil-water
conditions are known to exist, exterior foundation walls that
retain earth and enclose interior spaces and floors below
grade shall be waterproofed from the top of the footing to the
finished grade. Walls shall be waterproofed in accordance
with one of the following:
1. Two-ply hot-mopped felts.
2. Fifty-five-pound (25 kg) roll roofing.
3. Six-mil (0.15 mm) polyvinyl chloride.
4. Six-mil (0.15 mm) polyethylene.
5. Forty-mil (1 mm) polymer-modified asphalt.
6. Sixty-mil (1.5 mm) flexible polymer cement.
7. One-eighth-inch (3 mm) cement-based, fiber-rein-
forced, waterproof coating.
8. Sixty-mil (0.22 mm) solvent-free liquid-applied syn-
thetic rubber.
Exception: Organic-solvent-based products such as
hydrocarbons, chlorinated hydrocarbons, ketones and
esters shall not be used for ICF walls with expanded poly-
styrene form material. Use of plastic roofing cements,
acrylic coatings, latex coatings, mortars and pargings to
seal ICF walls is permitted. Cold- setting asphalt or hot
asphalt shall conform to type C of ASTM D 449. Hot
asphalt shall be applied at a temperature of less than 200°F
(93°C).
All joints in membrane waterproofing shall be lapped and
sealed with an adhesive compatible with the membrane.
R406.3 Dampproofing for wood foundations. Wood foun-
dations enclosing habitable or usable spaces located below
grade shall be dampproofed in accordance with Sections
R406.3.1 through R406.3.4.
R406.3.1 Panel joint sealed. Plywood panel joints in the
foundation walls shall be sealed full length with a caulking
compound capable of producing a moisture-proof seal
under the conditions of temperature and moisture content
at which it will be applied and used.
R406.3.2 Below-grade moisture barrier. A 6-mil-thick
(0.15 mm) polyethylene film shall be applied over the
below-grade portion of exterior foundation walls prior to
backfilling. Joints in the polyethylene film shall be lapped
6 inches (152 mm) and sealed with adhesive. The top edge
of the polyethylene film shall be bonded to the sheathing
to form a seal. Film areas at grade level shall be protected
from mechanical damage and exposure by a pressure pre-
servatively treated lumber or plywood strip attached to the
wall several inches above finish grade level and extending
approximately 9 inches (229 mm) below grade. The joint
between the strip and the wall shall be caulked full length
prior to fastening the strip to the wall. Other coverings
appropriate to the architectural treatment may also be
used. The polyethylene film shall extend down to the bot-
tom of the wood footing plate but shall not overlap or
extend into the gravel or crushed stone footing.
R406.3.3 Porous fill. The space between the excavation
and the foundation wall shall be backfilled with the same
material used for footings, up to a height of 1 foot (305
mm) above the footing for well-drained sites, or one-half
the total back-fill height for poorly drained sites. The
porous fill shall be covered with strips of 30-pound (13.6
kg) asphalt paper or 6-mil (0. 15 mm) polyethylene to per-
mit water seepage while avoiding infiltration of fine soils.
R406.3.4 Backfill. The remainder of the excavated area
shall be backfilled with the same type of soil as was
removed during the excavation.
110
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FOUNDATIONS
R406.4 Precast concrete foundation system dampproof-
ing. Except where required by Section R406.2 to be water-
proofed, precast concrete foundation walls enclosing
habitable or useable spaces located below grade shall be
dampproofed in accordance with Section R406.1.
R406.4.1 Panel joints sealed. Precast concrete foundation
panel joints shall be sealed full height with a sealant meet-
ing ASTM C 920, Type S or M, Grade NS, Class 25, Use
NT, M or A. Joint sealant shall be installed in accordance
with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
SECTION R407
COLUMNS
R407.1 Wood column protection. Wood columns shall be
protected against decay as set forth in Section R317.
R407.2 Steel column protection. All surfaces (inside and
outside) of steel columns shall be given a shop coat of rust-
inhibitive paint, except for corrosion-resistant steel and steel
treated with coatings to provide corrosion resistance.
R407.3 Structural requirements. The columns shall be
restrained to prevent lateral displacement at the bottom end.
Wood columns shall not be less in nominal size than 4 inches
by 4 inches (102 mm by 102 mm). Steel columns shall not be
less than 3-inch-diameter (76 mm) Schedule 40 pipe manu-
factured in accordance with ASTM A 53 Grade B or
approved equivalent.
Exception: In Seismic Design Categories A, B and C, col-
umns no more than 48 inches (1219 mm) in height on a
pier or footing are exempt from the bottom end lateral dis-
placement requirement within under-floor areas enclosed
by a continuous foundation.
SECTION R408
UNDER-FLOOR SPACE
R408.1 Ventilation. The under-floor space between the bot-
tom of the floor joists and the earth under any building
(except space occupied by a basement) shall have ventilation
openings through foundation walls or exterior walls. The
minimum net area of ventilation openings shall not be less
than 1 square foot (0.0929 m 2 ) for each 150 square feet (14
m 2 ) of under-floor space area, unless the ground surface is
covered by a Class 1 vapor retarder material. When a Class 1
vapor retarder material is used, the minimum net area of ven-
tilation openings shall not be less than 1 square foot (0.0929
m 2 ) for each 1,500 square feet (140 m 2 ) of under-floor space
area. One such ventilating opening shall be within 3 feet (914
mm) of each corner of the building.
R408.2 Openings for under-floor ventilation. The mini-
mum net area of ventilation openings shall not be less than 1
square foot (0.0929 m 2 ) for each 150 square feet (14 m 2 ) of
under-floor area. One ventilation opening shall be within 3
feet (915 mm) of each corner of the building. Ventilation
openings shall be covered for their height and width with any
of the following materials provided that the least dimension
of the covering shall not exceed 7 4 inch (6.4 mm):
1. Perforated sheet metal plates not less than 0.070 inch
(1.8 mm) thick.
2. Expanded sheet metal plates not less than 0.047 inch
(1.2 mm) thick.
3. Cast-iron grill or grating.
4. Extruded load-bearing brick vents.
5. Hardware cloth of 0.035 inch (0.89 mm) wire or
heavier.
6. Corrosion-resistant wire mesh, with the least dimension
being V 8 inch (3.2 mm) thick.
Exception: The total area of ventilation openings shall be
permitted to be reduced to '/ 1|300 of the under-floor area
where the ground surface is covered with an approved
Class I vapor retarder material and the required openings
are placed to provide cross ventilation of the space. The
installation of operable louvers shall not be prohibited.
R408.3 Unvented crawl space. Ventilation openings in
under-floor spaces specified in Sections R408.1 and R408.2
shall not be required where:
1. Exposed earth is covered with a continuous Class I
vapor retarder. Joints of the vapor retarder shall overlap
by 6 inches (152 mm) and shall be sealed or taped. The
edges of the vapor retarder shall extend at least 6 inches
(152 mm) up the stem wall and shall be attached and
sealed to the stem wall or insulation; and
2. One of the following is provided for the under-floor
space:
2.1. Continuously operated mechanical exhaust ven-
tilation at a rate equal to 1 cubic foot per minute
(0.47 L/s) for each 50 square feet (4.7m 2 ) of
crawlspace floor area, including an air pathway
to the common area (such as a duct or transfer
grille), and perimeter walls insulated in accor-
dance with Section N 1 103.2. 1 of this code;
2.2. Conditioned air supply sized to deliver at a rate
equal to 1 cubic foot per minute (0.47 L/s) for
each 50 square feet (4.7 m 2 ) of under-floor area,
including a return air pathway to the common
area (such as a duct or transfer grille), and
perimeter walls insulated in accordance with
Section Nl 102.2 of this code;
2.3. Plenum in existing structures complying with
Section M1601.5, if under-floor space is used as
a plenum.
R408.4 Access. Access shall be provided to all under-floor
spaces. Access openings through the floor shall be a mini-
mum of 18 inches by 24 inches (457 mm by 610 mm). Open-
ings through a perimeter wall shall be not less than 16 inches
by 24 inches (407 mm by 610 mm). When any portion of the
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
111
FOUNDATIONS
through-wall access is below grade, an areaway not less than
16 inches by 24 inches (407 mm by 610 mm) shall be pro-
vided. The bottom of the areaway shall be below the thresh-
old of the access opening. Through wall access openings shall
not be located under a door to the residence. See Section
M1305.1.4 for access requirements where mechanical equip-
ment is located under floors.
R408.5 Removal of debris. The under-floor grade shall be
cleaned of all vegetation and organic material. All wood
forms used for placing concrete shall be removed before a
building is occupied or used for any puipose. All construction
materials shall be removed before a building is occupied or
used for any purpose.
R408.6 Finished grade. The finished grade of under-floor
surface may be located at the bottom of the footings; how-
ever, where there is evidence that the groundwater table can
rise to within 6 inches (152 mm) of the finished floor at the
building perimeter or where there is evidence that the surface
water does not readily drain from the building site, the grade
in the under-floor space shall be as high as the outside fin-
ished grade, unless an approved drainage system is provided.
R408.7 Flood resistance. For buildings located in flood haz-
ard areas as established in Table R301.2(l):
1. Walls enclosing the under-floor space shall be provided
with flood openings in accordance with Section
R322.2.2.
2. The finished ground level of the under-floor space shall
be equal to or higher than the outside finished ground
level on at least one side.
Exception: Under-floor spaces that meet the require-
ments of FEMA/FIA TB 1 1 - 1 .
112 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 5
FLOORS
SECTION R501
GENERAL
R501.1 Application. The provisions of this chapter shall
control the design and construction of the floors for all build-
ings including the floors of attic spaces used to house
mechanical or plumbing fixtures and equipment.
R501.2 Requirements. Floor construction shall be capable
of accommodating all loads according to Section R301 and of
transmitting the resulting loads to the supporting structural
elements.
R501.3 Fire protection of floors. Floor assemblies, not
required elsewhere in this code to be fire -resistance rated,
shall be provided with a V 2 -inch (12.7 mm) gypsum wallboard
membrane, V s -inch (16 mm) wood structural panel membrane,
or equivalent on the underside of the floor framing member.
Exceptions:
1. Floor assemblies located directly over a space pro-
tected by an automatic sprinkler system in accor-
dance with Section P2904, NFPA13D, or other
approved equivalent sprinkler system.
2. Floor assemblies located directly over a crawl space
not intended for storage or fuel -fired appliances.
3. Portions of floor assemblies can be unprotected
when complying with the following:
3.1. The aggregate area of the unprotected por-
tions shall not exceed 80 square feet per
story
3.2. Fire blocking in accordance with Section
R302.11.1 shall be installed along the perim-
eter of the unprotected portion to separate
the unprotected portion from the remainder
of the floor assembly.
4. Wood floor assemblies using dimension lumber or
structural composite lumber equal to or greater than
2-inch by 10-inch (50.8 mm by 254 mm) nominal
dimension, or other approved floor assemblies dem-
onstrating equivalent fire performance.
SECTION R502
WOOD FLOOR FRAMING
R502.1 Identification. Load-bearing dimension lumber for
joists, beams and girders shall be identified by a grade mark
of a lumber grading or inspection agency that has been
approved by an accreditation body that complies with DOC
PS 20. In lieu of a grade mark, a certificate of inspection
issued by a lumber grading or inspection agency meeting the
requirements of this section shall be accepted.
R502.1.1 Preservative-treated lumber. Preservative
treated dimension lumber shall also be identified as
required by Section R317.2.
R502.1.2 Blocking and subflooring. Blocking shall be a
minimum of utility grade lumber. Subflooring may be a
minimum of utility grade lumber or No. 4 common grade
boards.
R502.1.3 End-jointed lumber. Approved end-jointed
lumber identified by a grade mark conforming to Section
R502.1 may be used interchangeably with solid-sawn
members of the same species and grade. End-jointed lum-
ber used in an assembly required elsewhere in this code to
have a fire-resistance rating shall have the designation
"Heat Resistant Adhesive" or "HRA"
mark.
ncluded in its grade
R502.1.4 Prefabricated wood I-joists. Structural capaci-
ties and design provisions for prefabricated wood I-joists
shall be established and monitored in accordance with
ASTMD5055.
R502.1.5 Structural glued laminated timbers. Glued
laminated timbers shall be manufactured and identified as
required in ANSI/AITC A190.1 and ASTM D 3737.
R502.1.6 Structural log members. Stress grading of
structural log members of nonrectangular shape, as typi-
cally used in log buildings, shall be in accordance with
ASTM D 3957. Such structural log members shall be iden-
tified by the grade mark of an approved lumber grading or
inspection agency. In lieu of a grade mark on the material,
a certificate of inspection as to species and grade issued by
a lumber-grading or inspection agency meeting the
requirements of this section shall be permitted to be
accepted.
R502.1.7 Structural composite lumber. Structural I
capacities for structural composite lumber shall be estab- 1
lished and monitored in accordance with ASTM D 5456. j
R502.2 Design and construction. Floors shall be designed
and constructed in accordance with the provisions of this
chapter, Figure R502.2 and Sections R317 and R318 or in
accordance with AF&PA/NDS.
R502.2.1 Framing at braced wall lines. A load path for
lateral forces shall be provided between floor framing and
braced wall panels located above or below a floor, as
specified in Section R602.10.8. *
R502.3 Allowable joist spans. Spans for floor joists shall be
in accordance with Tables R502.3.1(l) and R502.3.1(2). For
other grades and species and for other loading conditions,
refer to the AF&PA Span Tables for Joists and Rafters.
R502.3.1 Sleeping areas and attic joists. Table
R502.3.1(l) shall be used to determine the maximum
allowable span of floor joists that support sleeping areas
and attics that are accessed by means of a fixed stairway in
accordance with Section R311.7 provided that the design
live load does not exceed 30 pounds per square foot (1.44
kPa) and the design dead load does not exceed 20 pounds
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
113
FLOORS
per square foot (0.96 kPa). The allowable span of ceiling
joists that support attics used for limited storage or no
storage shall be determined in accordance with Section
R802.4.
R502.3.2 Other floor joists. Table R502.3.1(2) shall be
used to determine the maximum allowable span of floor
joists that support all other areas of the building, other than
sleeping rooms and attics, provided that the design live
load does not exceed 40 pounds per square foot (1 .92 kPa)
and the design dead load does not exceed 20 pounds per
square foot (0.96 kPa).
R502.3.3 Floor cantilevers. Floor cantilever spans shall
not exceed the nominal depth of the wood floor joist. Floor
cantilevers constructed in accordance with Table
R502.3.3(l) shall be permitted when supporting a light-
frame bearing wall and roof only. Floor cantilevers sup-
porting an exterior balcony are permitted to be constructed
in accordance with Table R502.3.3(2)
bottom wall
PLATE
OPTIONAL FINISH -
FLOOR
STUDS
SUBFLOQR OR
FLOOR SHEATHING-
' SEE SECTION R503
JOISTS-SEE TABLES
RS02.3.1[1)ANDR502.31C2)
2 IN. CLEARANCE —
SEE SECTION
R1001.11
FIREPLACE
. HEADER-DOUBLE IF
/ MORE THAN 4 FT SPAN
SOLID
BLOCKING-SEE
SECTION R502.7
\
SILL PLATE,
FOUNDATION i
I
USE HANGER IF HEADER
SPANS MORE THAN
6 FT
^
"0
LAP JOIST 3 IN. MIN. OR
SPLICE-SEE SECTION
RSQ2.6.1
•£
\
BAND, RIM OR
^HEADER JOIST
' SILL PLATE
BRIDGING BETWEEN
JOISTS-SEE SECTION
R502.7.1
PROVISION FOR. PIPES
AND VENTS
DOUBLE JOISTS UNDER BEARING
PARTITIONS. IF JOISTS ARE
SEPARATED FOR PIPES, BLOCK
4 FT ON CENTER MAXIMUM
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R502.2
FLOOR CONSTRUCTION
114
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
FLOORS
TABLE R502.3.1(1)
FLOOR JOIST SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Residential sleeping areas, live load = 30 psf, L/A = 360) a
JOIST
SPACING
(inches)
DEAD LOAD = 10 psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
SPECIES AND GRADE
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x 12
Maximum floor joist spans
(ft -in.)
(ft -in.)
(ft -in.)
(ft - in.)
(ft -in.)
(ft -in.)
(ft -in.)
(ft -in.)
12
Douglas fir-larch
SS
12-6
16-6
21-0
25-7
12-6
16-6
21-0
25-7
Douglas fir-larch
#1
12-0
15-10
20-3
24-8
12-0
15-7
19-0
22-0
Douglas fir-larch
#2
11-10
15-7
19-10
23-0
11-6
14-7
17-9
20-7
Douglas fir-larch
#3
9-8
12-4
15-0
17-5
8-8
11-0
13-5
15-7
Hem-fir
SS
11-10
15-7
19-10
24-2
11-10
15-7
19-10
24-2
Hem-fir
#1
11-7
15-3
19-5
23-7
11-7
15-2
18-6
21-6
Hem-fir
#2
11-0
14-6
18-6
22-6
11-0
14-4
17-6
20-4
Hem-fir
#3
9-8
12-4
15-0
17-5
8-8
11-0
13-5
15-7
Southern pine
SS
12-3
16-2
20-8
25-1
12-3
16-2
20-8
25-1
Southern pine
#1
12-0
15-10
20-3
24-8
12-0
15-10
20-3
24-8
Southern pine
#2
11-10
15-7
19-10
24-2
11-10
15-7
18-7
21-9
Southern pine
#3
10-5
13-3
15-8
18-8
9-4
11-11
14-0
16-8
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
11-7
15-3
19-5
23-7
11-7
15-3
19-5
23-7
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
11-3
14-11
19-0
23-0
11-3
14-7
17-9
20-7
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
11-3
14-11
19-0
23-0
11-3
14-7
17-9
20-7
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
9-8
12-4
15-0
17-5
8-8
11-0
13-5
15-7
16
Douglas fir-larch
SS
11-4
15-0
19-1
23-3
11-4
15-0
19-1
23-0
Douglas fir-larch
#1
10-11
14-5
18-5
21-4
10-8
13-6
16-5
19-1
Douglas fir-larch
#2
10-9
14-1
17-2
19-11
9-11
12-7
15-5
17-10
Douglas fir-larch
#3
8-5
10-8
13-0
15-1
7-6
9-6
11-8
13-6
Hem-fir
SS
10-9
14-2
18-0
21-11
10-9
14-2
18-0
21-11
Hem-fir
#1
10-6
13-10
17-8
20-9
10-4
13-1
16-0
18-7
Hem-fir
#2
10-0
13-2
16-10
19-8
9-10
12-5
15-2
17-7
Hem-fir
#3
8-5
10-8
13-0
15-1
7-6
9-6
11-8
13-6
Southern pine
SS
11-2
14-8
18-9
22-10
11-2
14-8
18-9
22-10
Southern pine
#1
10-11
14-5
18-5
22-5
10-11
14-5
17-11
21-4
Southern pine
#2
10-9
14-2
18-0
21-1
10-5
13-6
16-1
18-10
Southern pine
#3
9-0
11-6
13-7
16-2
8-1
10-3
12-2
14-6
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
10-6
13-10
17-8
21-6
10-6
13-10
17-8
21-4
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
10-3
13-6
17-2
19-11
9-11
12-7
15-5
17-10
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
10-3
13-6
17-2
19-11
9-11
12-7
15-5
17-10
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
8-5
10-8
13-0
15-1
7-6
9-6
11-8
13-6
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
115
FLOORS
TABLE R502.3.1(1)— continued
FLOOR JOIST SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Residential sleeping areas, live load = 30 psf, L/A = 360) a
JOIST
SPACING
(inches)
DEAD LOAD = 10 psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
SPECIES AND GRADE
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
Maximum floor joist spans
(ft -in.)
(ft -in.)
(ft -in.)
(ft -in.)
(ft -in.)
(ft -in.)
(ft - in.)
(ft - in.)
19.2
Douglas fir-larch
SS
10-8
14-1
18-0
21-10
10-8
14-1
18-0
21-0
Douglas fir-larch
#1
10-4
13-7
16-9
19-6
9-8
12-4
15-0
17-5
Douglas fir-larch
#2
10-1
12-10
15-8
18-3
9-1
11-6
14-1
16-3
Douglas fir-larch
#3
7-8
9-9
11-10
13-9
6-10
8-8
10-7
12-4
Hem-fir
SS
10-1
13-4
17-0
20-8
10-1
13-4
17-0
20-7
Hem-fir
#1
9-10
13-0
16-4
19-0
9-6
12-0
14-8
17-0
Hem-fir
#2
9-5
12-5
15-6
17-1
8-11
11-4
13-10
16-1
Hem-fir
#3
7-8
9-9
11-10
13-9
6-10
8-8
10-7
12-4
Southern pine
SS
10-6
13-10
17-8
21-6
10-6
13-10
17-8
21-6
Southern pine
#1
10-4
13-7
17-4
21-1
10-4
13-7
16-4
19-6
Southern pine
#2
10-1
13-4
16-5
19-3
9-6
12-4
14-8
17-2
Southern pine
#3
8-3
10-6
12-5
14-9
7-4
9-5
11-1
13-2
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
9-10
13-0
16-7
20-2
9-10
13-0
16-7
19-6
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
9-8
12-9
15-8
18-3
9-1
11-6
14-1
16-3
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
9-8
12-9
15-8
18-3
9-1
11-6
14-1
16-3
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
7-8
9-9
11-10
13-9
6-10
8-8
10-7
12-4
24
Douglas fir-larch
SS
9-11
13-1
16-8
20-3
9-11
13-1
16-2
18-9
Douglas fir-larch
#1
9-7
12-4
15-0
17-5
8-8
11-0
13-5
15-7
Douglas fir-larch
#2
9-1
11-6
14-1
16-3
8-1
10-3
12-7
14-7
Douglas fir-larch
#3
6-10
8-8
10-7
12-4
6-2
7-9
9-6
11-0
Hem-fir
SS
9-4
12-4
15-9
19-2
9-4
12-4
15-9
18-5
Hem-fir
#1
9-2
12-0
14-8
17-0
8-6
10-9
13-1
15-2
Hem-fir
#2
8-9
11-4
13-10
16-1
8-0
10-2
12-5
14-4
Hem-fir
#3
6-10
8-8
10-7
12-4
6-2
7-9
9-6
11-0
Southern pine
SS
9-9
12-10
16-5
19-11
9-9
12-10
16-5
19-11
Southern pine
#1
9-7
12-7
16-1
19-6
9-7
12-4
14-7
17-5
Southern pine
#2
9-4
12-4
14-8
17-2
8-6
11-0
13-1
15-5
Southern pine
#3
7-4
9-5
11-1
13-2
6-7
8-5
9-11
11-10
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
9-2
12-1
15-5
18-9
9-2
12-1
15-0
17-5
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
8-11
11-6
14-1
16-3
8-1
10-3
12-7
14-7
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
8-11
11-6
14-1
16-3
8-1
10-3
12-7
14-7
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
6-10
8-8
10-7
12-4
6-2
7-9
9-6
11-0
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
Note: Check sources for availability of lumber in lengths greater than 20 feet,
a. Dead load limits for townhouses in Seismic Design Category C and all structures
accordance with Section R301 .2.2.2. 1 .
in Seismic Design Categories D,„ D, and D, shall be determined in
116
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FLOORS
TABLE R502.3.1(2)
FLOOR JOIST SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Residential living areas, live load = 40 psf, L/A = 360)"
JOIST
SPACING
(inches)
DEAD LOAD = 10 psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
SPECIES AND GRADE
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x6
2x8
2x 10
2x12
Maximum floor joist spans
(ft -in.)
(ft - in.)
(ft - in.) | (ft - in.)
(ft -in.)
(ft - in.)
(ft -in.)
(ft - in.)
12
Douglas fir-larch
SS
1 1-4
15-0
19-1
23-3
11-4
15-0
19-1
23-3
Douglas fir-larch
#1
10-11
14-5
18-5
22-0
10-11
14-2
17-4
20-1
Douglas fir-larch
#2
10-9
14-2
17-9
20-7
10-6
13-3
16-3
18-10
Douglas fir-larch
#3
8-8
11-0
13-5
15-7
7-11
10-0
12-3
14-3
Hem-fir
SS
10-9
14-2
18-0
21-11
10-9
14-2
18-0
21-11
Hem-fir
#1
10-6
13-10
17-8
21-6
10-6
13-10
16-11
19-7
Hem-fir
#2
10-0
13-2
16-10
20-4
10-0
13-1
16-0
18-6
Hem -fir
#3
8-8
11-0
13-5
15-7
7-11
10-0
12-3
14-3
Southern pine
SS
11-2
14-8
18-9
22-10
11-2
14-8
18-9
22-10
Southern pine
#1
10-11
14-5
18-5
22-5
10-11
14-5
18-5
22-5
Southern pine
#2
10-9
14-2
18-0
21-9
10-9
14-2
16-11
19-10
Southern pine
#3
9-4
11-11
14-0
16-8
8-6
10-10
12-10
15-3
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
10-6
13-10
17-8
21-6
10-6
13-10
17-8
21-6
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
10-3
13-6
17-3
20-7
10-3
13-3
16-3
18-10
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
10-3
13-6
17-3
20-7
10-3
13-3
16-3
18-10
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
8-8
11-0
13-5
15-7
7-11
10-0
12-3
14-3
16
Douglas fir-larch
SS
10-4
13-7
17-4
21-1
10-4
13-7
17-4
21-0
Douglas fir-larch
#1
9-11
13-1
16-5
19-1
9-8
12-4
15-0
17-5
Douglas fir-larch
#2
9-9
12-7
15-5
17-10
9-1
11-6
14-1
16-3
Douglas fir-larch
#3
7-6
9-6
11-8
13-6
6-10
8-8
10-7
12-4
16
Hem-fir
SS
9-9
12-10
16-5
19-11
9-9
12-10
16-5
19-11
Hem-fir
#1
9-6
12-7
16-0
18-7
9-6
12-0
14-8
17-0
Hem-fir
#2
9-1
12-0
15-2
17-7
8-11
11-4
13-10
16-1
Hem-fir
#3
7-6
9-6
11-8
13-6
6-10
8-8
10-7
12-4
Southern pine
SS
10-2
13-4
17-0
20-9
10-2
13-4
17-0
20-9
Southern pine
#1
9-11
13-1
16-9
20-4
9-11
13-1
16-4
19-6
Southern pine
#2
9-9
12-10
16-1
18-10
9-6
12-4
14-8
17-2
Southern pine
#3
8-1
10-3
12-2
14-6
7-4
9-5
11-1
13-2
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
9-6
12-7
16-0
19-6
9-6
12-7
16-0
19-6
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
9-4
12-3
15-5
17-10
9-1
11-6
14-1
16-3
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
9-4
12-3
15-5
17-10
9-1
11-6
14-1
16-3
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
7-6
9-6
11-8
13-6
6-10
8-8
10-7
12-4
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
117
FLOORS
TABLE R502.3.1 (2)— continued
FLOOR JOIST SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Residential living areas, live load = 40 psf, L/A = 360) b
JOIST
SPACING
(inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 10 psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
Maximum floor joist spans
(ft - in.)
(ft - in.)
(ft -in.)
(ft -in.)
(ft -in.)
(ft -in.)
(ft -in.)
(ft - in.)
19.2
Douglas fir-larch
SS
9-8
12-10
16-4
19-10
9-8
12-10
16-4
19-2
Douglas fir-larch
#1
9-4
12-4
15-0
17-5
8-10
11-3
13-8
15-11
Douglas fir-larch
#2
9-1
11-6
14-1
16-3
8-3
10-6
12-10
14-10
Douglas fir-larch
#3
6-10
8-8
10-7
12-4
6-3
7-11
9-8
11-3
Hem -fir
SS
9-2
12-1
15-5
18-9
9-2
12-1
15-5
18-9
Hem-fir
#1
9-0
11-10
14-8
17-0
8-8
10-11
13-4
15-6
Hem-fir
#2
8-7
11-3
13-10
16-1
8-2
10-4
12-8
14-8
Hem-fir
#3
6-10
8-8
10-7
12-4
6-3
7-11
9-8
11-3
Southern pine
SS
9-6
12-7
16-0
19-6
9-6
12-7
16-0
19-6
Southern pine
#1
9-4
12-4
15-9
19-2
9-4
12-4
14-11
17-9
Southern pine
#2
9-2
12-1
14-8
17-2
8-8
11-3
13-5
15-8
Southern pine
#3
7-4
9-5
11-1
13-2
6-9
8-7
10-1
12-1
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
9-0
11-10
15-1
18-4
9-0
11-10
15-1
17-9
Spmce-pine-fir
#
8-9
11-6
14-1
16-3
8-3
10-6
12-10
14-10
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
8-9
11-6
14-1
16-3
8-3
10-6
12-10
14-10
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
6-10
8-8
10-7
12-4
6-3
7-11
9-8
11-3
24
Douglas fir-larch
SS
9-0
11-11
15-2
18-5
9-0
11-11
14-9
17-1
Douglas fir-larch
#1
8-8
11-0
13-5
15-7
7-11
10-0
12-3
14-3
Douglas fir-larch
#2
8-1
10-3
12-7
14-7
7-5
9-5
11-6
13-4
Douglas fir-larch
#3
6-2
7-9
9-6
11-0
5-7
7-1
8-8
10-1
Hem-fir
SS
8-6
11-3
14-4
17-5
8-6
11-3
14-4
16-10"
Hem-fir
#1
8-4
10-9
13-1
15-2
7-9
9-9
11-11
13-10
Hem-fir
#2
7-11
10-2
12-5
14-4
7-4
9-3
11-4
13-1
Hem-fir
#3
6-2
7-9
9-6
11-0
5-7
7-1
8-8
10-1
Southern pine
SS
8-10
11-8
14-11
18-1
8-10
11-8
14-11
18-1
Southern pine
#1
8-8
11-5
14-7
17-5
8-8
11-3
13-4
15-11
Southern pine
#2
8-6
11-0
13-1
15-5
7-9
10-0
12-0
14-0
Southern pine
#3
6-7
8-5
9-11
11-10
6-0
7-8
9-1
10-9
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
8-4
11-0
14-0
17-0
8-4
11-0
13-8
15-11
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
8-1
10-3
12-7
14-7
7-5
9-5
11-6
13-4
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
8-1
10-3
12-7
14-7
7-5
9-5
11-6
13-4
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
6-2
7-9
9-6
11-0
5-7
7-1
8-8
10-1
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
Note: Check sources for availability of lumber in lengths greater than 20 feet.
a. End bearing length shall be increased to 2 inches.
b. Dead load limits for townhouses in Seismic Design Category C and all structures in Seismic Design Categories D , D„ and D, shall be determined in
accordance with Section R30 1.2. 2.2.1.
118
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FLOORS
TABLE R5Q2.3.3(1)
CANTILEVER SPANS FOR FLOOR JOISTS SUPPORTING LIGHT-FRAME EXTERIOR BEARING WALL AND ROOF ONLY abc ' , = |h
(Floor Live Load < 40 psf, Roof Live Load < 20 psf)
Member & Spacing
Maximum Cantilever Span (Uplift Force at Backspan Support in Lbs.) de
Ground Snow Load
< 20 psf
30 psf
50 psf
70 psf
Roof Width
Roof Width
Roof Width
Roof Width
24 ft
32 ft
40 ft
24 ft
32 ft
40 ft
24 ft
32 ft
40 ft
24 ft
32 ft
40 ft
2x8 @ 12"
20"
(177)
15"
(227)
—
18"
(209)
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2 x 10 @ 16"
29"
(228)
21"
(297)
16"
(364)
26"
(271)
18"
(354)
—
20"
(375)
—
—
—
—
—
2x 10 @ 12"
36"
(166)
26"
(219)
20"
(270)
34"
(198)
22"
(263)
16"
(324)
26"
(277)
—
—
19"
(356)
—
—
2x 12 @ 16"
—
32"
(287)
25"
(356)
36"
(263)
29"
(345)
21"
(428)
29"
(367)
20"
(484)
—
23"
(471)
—
—
2x 12 @ 12"
—
42"
(209)
31"
(263)
—
37"
(253)
27"
(317)
36"
(271)
27"
(358)
17"
(447)
31"
(348)
19"
(462)
—
2 x 12 @ 8"
—
48"
(136)
45"
(169)
—
48"
(164)
38"
(206)
—
40"
(233)
26"
(294)
36"
(230)
29"
(304)
18"
(379)
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Tabulated values are for clear-span roof supported solely by exterior bearing walls.
b. Spans are based on No. 2 Grade lumber of Douglas fir-larch, hem-fir, southern pine and spruce-pine-fir for repetitive (three or more) members.
c. Ratio of backspan to cantilever span shall be at least 3:1.
d. Connections capable of resisting the indicated uplift force shall be provided at the backspan support.
e. Uplift force is for a backspan to cantilever span ratio of 3: 1 . Tabulated uplift values are permitted to be reduced by multiplying by a factor equal to 3 divided
by the actual backspan ratio provided (3/backspan ratio).
f. See Section R301.2.2.2.5, Item 1, for additional limitations on cantilevered floor joists for detached one- and two-family dwellings in Seismic Design
Category D (( , D,, or D 2 and townhouses in Seismic Design Category C, D , D, or D 2 .
g. A full-depth rim joist shall be provided at the unsupported end of the cantilever joists. Solid blocking shall be provided at the supported end.
h. Linear interpolation shall be permitted for building widths and ground snow loads other than shown.
TABLE R502.3.3(2)
CANTILEVER SPANS FOR FLOOR JOISTS SUPPORTING EXTERIOR BALCONY' be
,f
Member Size
Spacing
Maximum Cantilever Span
(Uplift Force at Backspan Support in lb) cd
Ground Snow Load
< 30 psf
50 psf
70 psf
2x8
12"
42" (139)
39" (156)
34" (165)
2x8
16"
36" (151)
34" (171)
29" (180)
2x 10
12"
61" (164)
57" (189)
49" (201)
2x 10
16"
53" (180)
49" (208)
42" (220)
2x 10
24"
43" (212)
40" (241)
34" (255)
2x 12
16"
72" (228)
67" (260)
57" (268)
2x 12
24"
58" (279)
54" (319)
47" (330)
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Spans are based on No. 2 Grade lumber of Douglas fir-larch, hem-fir, southern pine and spruce-pine-fir for repetitive (three or more) members.
b. Ratio of backspan to cantilever span shall be at least 2:1.
c. Connections capable of resisting the indicated uplift force shall be provided at the backspan support.
d. Uplift force is for a backspan to cantilever span ratio of 2: 1 . Tabulated uplift values are permitted to be reduced by multiplying by a factor equal to 2 divided
by the actual backspan ratio provided (2/backspan ratio).
e. A full-depth rim joist shall be provided at the unsupported end of the cantilever joists. Solid blocking shall be provided at the supported end.
f. Linear interpolation shall be permitted for ground snow loads other than shown.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
119
FLOORS
R502.4 Joists under bearing partitions. Joists under paral-
lel bearing partitions shall be of adequate size to support the
load. Double joists, sized to adequately support the load, that
are separated to permit the installation of piping or vents shall
be full depth solid blocked with lumber not less than 2 inches
(51 mm) in nominal thickness spaced not more than 4 feet
(1219 mm) on center. Bearing partitions perpendicular to
joists shall not be offset from supporting girders, walls or par-
titions more than the joist depth unless such joists are of suffi-
cient size to carry the additional load.
R502.5 Allowable girder spans. The allowable spans of
girders fabricated of dimension lumber shall not exceed the
values set forth in Tables R502.5(1 ) and R502.5(2).
R502.6 Bearing. The ends of each joist, beam or girder shall
have not less than 1.5 inches (38 nun) of bearing on wood or
metal and not less than 3 inches (76 mm) on masonry or con-
crete except where supported on a 1-inch by 4-inch (25.4 mm
by 102 mm) ribbon strip and nailed to the adjacent stud or by
the use of approved joist hangers. The bearing on masonry or
concrete shall be direct, or a sill plate of 2-inch-minimum (51
mm) nominal thickness shall be provided under the joist,
beam or girder. The sill plate shall provide a minimum nomi-
nal bearing area of 48 square inches (30 865 square mm).
R502.6.1 Floor systems. Joists framing from opposite
sides over a bearing support shall lap a minimum of 3
inches (76 mm) and shall be nailed together with a mini-
mum three lOd face nails. A wood or metal splice with
strength equal to or greater than that provided by the
nailed lap is permitted.
R502.6.2 Joist framing. Joists framing into the side of a
wood girder shall be supported by approved framing
anchors or on ledger strips not less than nominal 2 inches
by 2 inches (51 mm by 51 mm).
R502.7 Lateral restraint at supports. Joists shall be sup-
ported laterally at the ends by full-depth solid blocking not
less than 2 inches (51 mm) nominal in thickness; or by attach-
ment to a full-depth header, band or rim joist, or to an adjoin-
ing stud or shall be otherwise provided with lateral support to
prevent rotation.
Exceptions:
1. Trusses, structural composite lumber, structural
glued-laminated members and I-joists shall be sup-
ported laterally as required by the manufacturer's
recommendations .
2. In Seismic Design Categories D , D, and D 2 , lateral
restraint shall also be provided at each intermediate
support.
R502.7.1 Bridging. Joists exceeding a nominal 2 inches
by 12 inches (51 mm by 305 mm) shall be supported later-
ally by solid blocking, diagonal bridging (wood or metal),
or a continuous 1 inch by 3 inch (25.4 mm by 76 mm) strip
nailed across the bottom of joists perpendicular to joists at
intervals not exceeding 8 feet (2438 mm).
Exception: Trusses, structural composite lumber,
structural glued-laminated members and I-joists shall
be supported laterally as required by the manufacturer's
recommendations.
R502.8 Cutting, drilling and notching. Structural floor
members shall not be cut, bored or notched in excess of the
limitations specified in this section. See Figure R502.8.
R502.8.1 Sawn lumber. Notches in solid lumber joists,
rafters and beams shall not exceed one-sixth of the depth
of the member, shall not be longer than one-third of the
depth of the member and shall not be located in the middle
one-third of the span. Notches at the ends of the member
shall not exceed one-fourth the depth of the member. The
tension side of members 4 inches (102 mm) or greater in
nominal thickness shall not be notched except at the ends
of the members. The diameter of holes bored or cut into
members shall not exceed one-third the depth of the mem-
ber. Holes shall not be closer than 2 inches (51 mm) to the
top or bottom of the member, or to any other hole located
in the member. Where the member is also notched, the
hole shall not be closer than 2 inches (51 mm) to the notch.
R502.8.2 Engineered wood products. Cuts, notches and
holes bored in trusses, structural composite lumber, struc-
tural glue-laminated members or I-joists are prohibited
except where permitted by the manufacturer's recommen-
dations or where the effects of such alterations are specifi-
cally considered in the design of the member by a
registered design professional.
R502.9 Fastening. Floor framing shall be nailed in accor-
dance with Table R602.3(l). Where posts and beam or girder
construction is used to support floor framing, positive con-
nections shall be provided to ensure against uplift and lateral
displacement.
R502.lt) Framing of openings. Openings in floor framing
shall be framed with a header and trimmer joists. When the
header joist span does not exceed 4 feet (1219 mm), the
header joist may be a single member the same size as the
floor joist. Single trimmer joists may be used to carry a single
header joist that is located within 3 feet (914 mm) of the trim-
mer joist bearing. When the header joist span exceeds 4 feet
(1219 mm), the trimmer joists and the header joist shall be
doubled and of sufficient cross section to support the floor
joists framing into the header. Approved hangers shall be
used for the header joist to trimmer joist connections when
the header joist span exceeds 6 feet (1829 mm). Tail joists
over 12 feet (3658 mm) long shall be supported at the header
by framing anchors or on ledger strips not less than 2 inches
by 2 inches (51 mm by 51 mm).
R502.ll Wood trusses.
R502.ll. 1 Design. Wood trusses shall be designed in
accordance with approved engineering practice. The
design and manufacture of metal plate connected wood
trusses shall comply with ANSI/TPI 1. The truss design
drawings shall be prepared by a registered professional
where required by the statutes of the jurisdiction in which
the project is to be constructed in accordance with Section
R106.1.
120
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FLOORS
TABLE R502.5(1)
GIRDER SPANS 3 AND HEADER SPANS 3 FOR EXTERIOR BEARING WALLS
(Maximum spans for Douglas fir-larch, hem-fir, southern pine and spruce-pine-fir b and required number of jack studs)
GIRDERS AND
HEADERS
SUPPORTING
SIZE
GROUND SNOW LOAD (psf) e
30
50
70
Building width (feet)
20
28
36
20
28
36
20
28
36
Span
NJ d
Span
NJ d
Span
NJ d
Span
NJ d
Span
NJ d
Span
NJ d
Span
NJ d
Span
NJ d
Span
NJ d
Roof and ceiling
2-2x4
3-6
1
3-2
I
2-10
1
3-2
1
2-9
1
2-6
1
2-10
1
2-6
1
2-3
1
2-2x6
5-5
1
4-8
1
4-2
1
4-8
1
4-1
1
3-8
2
4-2
1
3-8
2
3-3
2
2-2x8
6-10
1
5-1 1
2
5-4
2
5-11
2
5-2
2
4-7
2
5-4
2
4-7
2
4-1
2
2-2 x 10
8-5
2
7-3
2
6-6
2
7-3
2
6-3
2
5-7
2
6-6
2
5-7
2
5-0
2
2-2 x 12
9-9
2
8-5
2
7-6
2
8-5
2
7-3
2
6-6
2
7-6
2
6-6
2
5-10
3
3-2x8
8-4
1
7-5
1
6-8
1
7-5
1
6-5
2
5-9
2
6-8
1
5-9
2
5-2
2
3-2 x 10
10-6
I
9-1
2
8-2
2
9-1
2
7-10
2
7-0
2
8-2
2
7-0
2
6-4
2
3-2 x 12
12-2
2
10-7
2
9-5
2
10-7
2
9-2
2
8-2
2
9-5
2
8-2
2
7-4
2
4-2x8
9-2
1
8-4
1
7-8
1
8-4
1
7-5
1
6-8
1
7-8
1
6-8
1
5-11
2
4-2 X 10
1 1-8
1
10-6
1
9-5
2
10-6
1
9-1
2
8-2
2
9-5
2
8-2
2
7-3
2
4-2 x 12
14-1
1
12-2
2
10-11
2
12-2
2
10-7
2
9-5
2
10-11
2
9-5
2
8-5
2
Roof, ceiling
and one center-
bearing floor
2-2 x 4
3-1
1
2-9
1
2-5
1
2-9
1
2-5
1
2-2
1
2-7
1
2-3
1
2-0
1
2-2x6
4-6
1
4-0
1
3-7
2
4-1
1
3-7
2
3-3
2
3-9
2
3-3
2
2-11
2
2-2x8
5-9
2
5-0
2
4-6
2
5-2
2
4-6
2
4-1
2
4-9
2
4-2
2
3-9
2
2-2 x 10
7-0
2
6-2
2
5-6
2
6-4
2
5-6
2
5-0
2
5-9
2
5-1
2
4-7
3
2-2x12
8-1
2
7-1
2
6-5
2
7-4
2
6-5
2
5-9
3
6-8
2
5-10
3
5-3
3
3-2x8
7-2
1
6-3
2
5-8
2
6-5
2
5-8
2
5-1
2
5-11
2
5-2
2
4-8
2
3-2 x 10
8-9
2
7-8
2
6-11
2
7-11
2
6-11
2
6-3
2
7-3
2
6-4
2
5-8
2
3-2 x 12
10-2
2
8-11
2
8-0
2
9-2
2
8-0
2
7-3
2
8-5
2
7-4
2
6-7
2
4-2x8
8-1
1
7-3
1
6-7
1
7-5
1
6-6
1
5-11
2
6-10
1
6-0
2
5-5
2
4-2 x 10
10-1
1
8-10
2
8-0
2
9-1
2
8-0
2
7-2
2
8-4
2
7-4
2
6-7
2
4-2 x 12
11-9
2
10-3
2
9-3
2
10-7
2
9-3
2
8-4
2
9-8
2
8-6
2
7-7
2
Roof, ceiling
and one clear
span floor
2-2x4
2-8
1
2-4
1
2-1
1
2-7
1
2-3
1
2-0
1
2-5
1
2-1
1
1-10
1
2-2x6
3-11
1
3-5
2
3-0
2
3-10
2
3-4
2
3-0
2
3-6
2
3-1
2
2-9
2
2-2x8
5-0
2
4-4
2
3-10
2
4-10
2
4-2
2
3-9
2
4-6
2
3-11
2
3-6
2
2-2 x 10
6-1
2
5-3
2
4-8
-i
5-11
2
5-1
2
4-7
3
5-6
2
4-9
2
4-3
3
2-2x12
7-1
2
6-1
3
5-5
3
6-10
2
5-11
3
5-4
3
6-4
2
5-6
3
5-0
3
3-2x8
6-3
2
5-5
2
4-10
2
6-1
2
5-3
2
4-8
2
5-7
2
4-11
2
4-5
2
3-2 x 10
7-7
2
6-7
2
5-11
2
7-5
2
6-5
2
5-9
2
6-10
2
6-0
2
5-4
2
3-2 x 12
8-10
2
7-8
2
6-10
2
8-7
2
7-5
2
6-8
2
7-11
2
6-11
2
6-3
2
4-2x8
7-2
1
6-3
2
5-7
2
7-0
1
6-1
2
5-5
2
6-6
1
5-8
2
5-1
2
4-2 x 10
8-9
2
7-7
2
6-10
2
8-7
2
7-5
2
6-7
2
7-11
2
6-11
2
6-2
2
4-2 x 12
10-2
2
8-10
2
7-11
2
9-11
2
8-7
2
7-8
2
9-2
2
8-0
2
7-2
2
Roof, ceiling
and two center-
bearing floors
2-2x4
2-7
1
2-3
1
2-0
1
2-6
1
2-2
1
1-11
1
2-4
1
2-0
1
1-9
1
2-2x6
3-9
2
3-3
2
2-11
2
3-8
2
3-2
2
2-10
2
3-5
2
3-0
2
2-8
2
2-2x8
4-9
2
4-2
2
3-9
2
4-7
2
4-0
2
3-8
2
4-4
2
3-9
2
3-5
2
2-2 x 10
5-9
2
5-1
2
4-7
3
5-8
2
4-11
2
4-5
3
5-3
2
4-7
3
4-2
3
2-2 x 12
6-8
2
5-10
3
5-3
3
6-6
2
5-9
3
5-2
3
6-1
3
5-4
3
4-10
3
3-2x8
5-11
2
5-2
2
4-8
2
5-9
2
5-1
2
4-7
2
5-5
2
4-9
2
4-3
2
3-2 x 10
7-3
2
6-4
2
5-8
2
7-1
2
6-2
2
5-7
2
6-7
2
5-9
2
5-3
2
3-2 x 12
8-5
2
7-4
2
6-7
2
8-2
2
7-2
2
6-5
3
7-8
2
6-9
2
6-1
3
4-2x8
6-10
1
6-0
2
5-5
2
6-8
1
5-10
2
5-3
2
6-3
2
5-6
2
4-11
2
4-2 x 10
8-4
2
7-4
2
6-7
2
8-2
2
7-2
2
6-5
2
7-7
2
6-8
2
6-0
2
4-2 x 12
9-8
2
8-6
2
7-8
2
9-5
2
8-3
2
7-5
2
8-10
2
7-9
2
7-0
2
Roof, ceiling,
and two clear
span floors
2-2x4
2-1
1
1-8
1
1-6
2
2-0
1
1-8
1
1-5
2
2-0
1
1-8
1
1-5
2
2-2x6
3-1
2
2-8
2
2-4
2
3-0
2
2-7
2
2-3
2
2-11
2
2-7
2
2-3
2
2-2x8
3-10
2
3-4
2
3-0
3
3-10
2
3-4
2
2-11
3
3-9
2
3-3
2
2-11
3
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE' 8
121
FLOORS
TABLE R502.5(1)— continued
GIRDER SPANS 3 AND HEADER SPANS 3 FOR EXTERIOR BEARING WALLS
(Maximum spans for Douglas fir-larch, hem-fir, southern pine and spruce-pine-fir b and required number of jack studs)
GIRDERS AND
HEADERS
SUPPORTING
SIZE
GROUND SNOW LOAD (psf) e
30
50
70
Building width" (feet)
20
28
36
20
28
36
20
28
36
Span
NJ d
Span
NJ d
Span
NJ d
Span
NJ d
Span
NJ d
Span
NJ d
Span
NJ"
Span
NJ d
Span
NJ"
Roof, ceiling,
and two clear
span floors
2-2 x 10
4-9
2
4-1
3
3-8
3
4-8
2
4-0
3
3-7
3
4-7
3
4-0
3
3-6
3
2-2 x 12
5-6
3
4-9
3
4-3
3
5-5
3
4-8
3
4-2
3
5-4
3
4-7
3
4-1
4
3-2x8
4-10
2
4-2
2
3-9
2
4-9
2
4-1
2
3-8
2
4-8
2
4-1
2
3-8
2
3-2 x 10
5-11
2
5-1
2
4-7
3
5-10
2
5-0
2
4-6
3
5-9
9
4-11
2
4-5
3
3-2x12
6-10
2
5-11
3
5-4
3
6-9
2
5-10
3
5-3
3
6-8
2
5-9
3
5-2
3
4-2x8
5-7
2
4-10
2
4-4
2
5-6
2
4-9
2
4-3
2
5-5
2
4-8
2
4-2
2
4-2 x 10
6-10
2
5-11
2
5-3
2
6-9
2
5-10
2
5-2
2
6-7
2
5-9
2
5-1
2
4-2x12
7-11
2
6-10
2
6-2
3
7-9
2
6-9
2
6-0
3
7-8
2
6-8
2
5-11
3
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Spans are given in feet and inches.
b. Tabulated values assume #2 grade lumber.
c. Building width is measured perpendicular to the ridge. For widths between those shown, spans are permitted to be interpolated.
d. NI - Number of jack studs required to support each end. Where the number of required jack studs equals one, the header is permitted to be supported by an
approved framing anchor attached to the full-height wall stud and to the header.
e. Use 30 psf ground snow load for cases in which ground snow load is less than 30 psf and the roof live load is equal to or less than 20 psf.
TABLE R502.5(2)
GIRDER SPANS" AND HEADER SPANS" FOR INTERIOR BEARING WALLS
(Maximum spans for Douglas fir-larch, hem-fir, southern pine and spruce-pine-fir b and required number of jack studs)
HEADERS AND
GIRDERS
SUPPORTING
SIZE
BUILDING Width (feet)
20
28
36
Span
NJ d
Span
NJ"
Span
NJ d
One floor only
2-2x4
3-1
2-8
1
2-5
1
2-2x6
4-6
3-11
I
3-6
1
2-2x8
5-9
5-0
2
4-5
2
2-2x10
7-0
6-1
2
5-5
2
2-2 x 12
8-1
7-0
2
6-3
2
3-2 x 8
7-2
6-3
1
5-7
2
3-2 x 10
8-9
7-7
2
6-9
2
3-2 x 12
10-2
8-10
2
7-10
2
4-2x8
9-0
7-8
1
6-9
1
4-2 x 10
10-1
8-9
1
7-10
2
4-2 x 12
11-9
10-2
2
9-1
2
Two floors
2-2x4
2-2
1-10
1
1-7
1
2-2x6
3-2
2
2-9
2
2-5
2
2-2x8
4-1
2
3-6
2
3-2
2
2-2 x 10
4-11
2
4-3
2
3-10
3
2-2 x 12
5-9
2
5-0
3
4-5
3
3-2x8
5-1
2
4-5
2
3-11
2
r 3-2x10
6-2
2
5-4
2
4-10
2
3-2 x 12
7-2
2
6-3
2
5-7
3
4-2x8
6-1
1
5-3
2
4-8
2
4-2 x 1
7-2
2
6-2
2
5-6
2
4-2 x 12
8-4
2
7-2
2
6-5
2
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Spans are given in feet and inches.
b. Tabulated values assume #2 grade lumber.
c. Building width is measured perpendicular to the ridge. For widths between those shown, spans are permitted to be interpolated.
d. NJ - Number of jack studs required to support each end. Where the number of required jack studs equals one, the header is permitted to be supported by an
approved framing anchor attached to the full-height wall stud and to the header.
122
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FLOORS
R502.11.2 Bracing. Trusses shall be braced to prevent
rotation and provide lateral stability in accordance with the
requirements specified in the construction documents for
the building and on the individual truss design drawings.
In the absence of specific bracing requirements, trusses
shall be braced in accordance with accepted industry prac-
tices, such as, the SBCA Building Component Safety
Information (BCSI) Guide to Good Practice for Handling,
Installing & Bracing of Metal Plate Connected Wood
Trusses.
R502.11.3 Alterations to trusses. Truss members and
components shall not be cut, notched, spliced or otherwise
altered in any way without the approval of a registered
design professional. Alterations resulting in the addition
of load (e.g., HVAC equipment, water heater, etc.), that
exceed the design load for the truss, shall not be permitted
without verification that the truss is capable of supporting
the additional loading.
T
D/6 MAX.
NO NOTCHES J
PERMITTED 1
1-
D/3MAX.
1 D/6 MAX.
FOR MEMBERS
LESS THAN
4 IN. NOMINAL .
FLOOR JOIST— CENTER CUTS DIMENSION
I"
D/4 MAX.
1
IS — f
I
D/4 MAX.
FLOOR JOIST— END CUTS
D/3 MAX
2 IN. MIN. FROM TOP
AND BOTTOM OF JOIST
PIPE OR CONDUIT
D (ACTUAL DEPTH)
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R502.8
CUTTING, NOTCHING AND DRILLING
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE* 8
123
FLOORS
R502.11.4 Truss design drawings. Trass design draw-
ings, prepared in compliance with Section R502.11.1,
shall be submitted to the building official and approved
prior to installation. Truss design drawings shall be pro-
vided with the shipment of trusses delivered to the job site.
Truss design drawings shall include, at a minimum, the
information specified below:
1. Slope or depth, span and spacing.
2. Location of all joints.
3. Required bearing widths.
4. Design loads as applicable:
4.1. Top chord live load;
4.2. Top chord dead load;
4.3. Bottom chord live load;
4.4. Bottom chord dead load;
4.5. Concentrated loads and their points of appli-
cation; and
4.6. Controlling wind and earthquake loads.
5. Adjustments to lumber and joint connector design
values for conditions of use.
6. Each reaction force and direction.
7. Joint connector type and description, e.g., size,
thickness or gauge, and the dimensioned location of
each joint connector except where symmetrically
located relative to the joint interface.
8. Lumber size, species and grade for each member.
9. Connection requirements for:
9.1. Truss-to-girder-truss;
9.2. Truss ply-to-ply; and
9.3. Field splices.
10. Calculated deflection ratio and/or maximum
description for live and total load.
1 1 . Maximum axial compression forces in the truss
members to enable the building designer to design
the size, connections and anchorage of the perma-
nent continuous lateral bracing. Forces shall be
shown on the truss drawing or on supplemental doc-
uments.
12. Required permanent truss member bracing location.
R502.12 Draftstopping required. Draftstopping shall be
provided in accordance with Section R302.12.
R502.13 Fireblocking required. Fireblocking shall be pro-
vided in accordance with Section R302.ll.
SECTION R503
FLOOR SHEATHING
R503.1 Lumber sheathing. Maximum allowable spans for
lumber used as floor sheathing shall conform to Tables
R503.1, R503.2.1. 1(1) and R503 .2.1.1(2).
TABLE R503.1
MINIMUM THICKNESS OF LUMBER FLOOR SHEATHING
JOIST OR BEAM
SPACING (inches)
MINIMUM NET THICKNESS
Perpendicular to joist
Diagonal to joist
24
"/ l6
X
16
X
X
48 a
l'/,T&G
N/A
54"
60 c
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
N/A = Not applicable.
a. For this support spacing, lumber sheathing shall have a minimum F b of
675 and minimum E of 1 ,100,000 (see AF&PA/NDS).
b. For this support spacing, lumber sheathing shall have a minimum F,, of
765 and minimum E of 1 ,400,000 (see AF&PA/NDS) .
c. For this support spacing, lumber sheathing shall have a minimum F fc of
855 and minimum E of 1,700,000 (see AF&PA/NDS).
R503.1.1 End joints. End joints in lumber used as sub-
flooring shall occur over supports unless end-matched
lumber is used, in which case each piece shall bear on at
least two joists. Subflooring may be omitted when joist
spacing does not exceed 16 inches (406 mm) and a 1-inch
(25.4 mm) nominal tongue-and-groove wood strip floor-
ing is applied perpendicular to the joists.
R503.2 Wood structural panel sheathing.
R503.2.1 Identification and grade. Wood structural
panel sheathing used for structural purposes shall conform
to DOC PS 1, DOC PS 2 or, when manufactured in Can-
ada, CSA 0437 or CSA 0325. All panels shall be identi-
fied for grade, bond classification, and Performance
Category by a grade mark or certificate of inspection
issued by an approved agency. The Performance Cate-
gory value shall be used as the "nominal panel thickness"
or "panel thickness" whenever referenced in this code.
R503.2.1.1 Subfloor and combined subfloor under-
layment. Where used as subflooring or combination
subfloor underlayment, wood structural panels shall be
of one of the grades specified in Table R503.2.1.1(l).
When sanded plywood is used as combination subfloor
underlayment, the grade, bond classification, and Per-
formance Category shall be as specified in Table
R503.2. 1.1(2).
TABLE R503.2.1. 1(2)
ALLOWABLE SPANS FOR SANDED
PLYWOOD COMBINATION SUBFLOOR UNDERLAYMENT"
IDENTIFICATION
SPACING OF JOISTS (inches)
16
20
24
Species group b
—
—
—
1
%
X
X
2,3
X
X
X
4
%
X
1
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Plywood continuous over two or more spans and face grain perpendicular
to supports. Unsupported edges shall be tongue-and-groove or blocked
except where nominal V 4 -inch-thick underlayment or 3 A,-inch wood finish
floor is used. Allowable uniform live load at maximum span based on
deflection of '/, 60 of span is 100 psf.
b. Applicable to all grades of sanded exterior-type plywood.
124
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
R503.2.2 Allowable spans. The maximum allowable span
for wood structural panels used as subfloor or combination
subfloor underlayment shall be as set forth in Table
R503.2. 1.1(1), or APA E30. The maximum span for
sanded plywood combination subfloor underlayment shall
be as set forth in Table R503.2.1.1(2).
R503.2.3 Installation. Wood structural panels used as
subfloor or combination subfloor underlayment shall be
attached to wood framing in accordance with Table
R602.3(l) and shall be attached to cold-formed steel fram-
ing in accordance with Table R505.3.1(2).
R503.3 Particleboard.
R503.3.1 Identification and grade. Particleboard shall
conform to ANSI A208.1 and shall be so identified by a
grade mark or certificate of inspection issued by an
approved agency.
FLOORS
R503.3.2 Floor underlayment. Particleboard floor under-
layment shall conform to Type PBU and shall not be less
than V 4 inch (6.4 mm) in thickness.
R503.3.3 Installation. Particleboard underlayment shall
be installed in accordance with the recommendations of
the manufacturer and attached to framing in accordance
with Table R602.3(l).
SECTION R504
PRESSURE PRESERVATIVELY
TREATED-WOOD FLOORS (ON GROUND)
R504.1 General. Pressure preservatively treated-wood base-
ment floors and floors on ground shall be designed to with-
stand axial forces and bending moments resulting from lateral
soil pressures at the base of the exterior walls and floor live
TABLE R503.2.1. 1(1)
ALLOWABLE SPANS AND LOADS FOR WOOD STRUCTURAL PANELS FOR ROOF AND
SUBFLOOR SHEATHING AND COMBINATION SUBFLOOR UNDERLAYMENT" bc
SPAN RATING
MINIMUM NOMINAL
PANEL THICKNESS
(inch)
ALLOWABLE LIVE LOAD
(psf)"'
MAXIMUM SPAN
(inches)
LOAD (pounds per square
foot, at maximum span)
MAXIMUM SPAN
(inches)
SPAN
@ 16" o.c.
SPAN
@ 24" o.c.
With edge
support 11
Without edge
support
Total load
Live load
Sheathing 6
Roof
Subfloor'
1 6/0
\
30
—
16
16
40
30
20/0
%
50
—
20
20
40
30
24/0
\
100
30
24
20 s
40
30
24/16
7 / l(i
100
40
24
24
50
40
16
32/16
%> \
180
70
32
28
40
30
16 h
40/20
19/ 5,
'32' '8
305
130
40
32
40
30
20 ". i
48/24
%'%
—
175
48
36
45
35
24
60/32
7 / 8
—
305
60
48
45
35
32
Underlayment, C-C plugged, single floor"
Roof
Combination subfloor
underlayment 11
16 o.c.
19/ 5/
'32' '8
100
40
24
24
50
40
16 ;
20 o.c.
'7 V
'32' '8
150
60
32
32
40
30
20'- j
24 o.c.
%.%
240
100
48
36
35
25
24
32 o.c.
? / S
—
185
48
40
50
40
32
48 o.c.
\% v \\
—
290
60
48
50
40
48
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. The allowable total loads were determined using a dead load of 10 psf. If the dead load exceeds 10 psf, then the live load shall be reduced accordingly.
b. Panels continuous over two or more spans with long dimension (strength axis) perpendicular to supports. Spans shall be limited to values shown because of
possible effect of concentrated loads.
c. Applies to panels 24 inches or wider.
d. Lumber blocking, panel edge clips (one midway between each support, except two equally spaced between supports when span is 48 inches), tongue-and-
groove panel edges, or other approved type of edge support.
e. Includes Structural 1 panels in these grades.
f. Uniform load deflection limitation: '/ lg0 of span under live load plus dead load, 7 240 of span under live load only.
g. Maximum span 24 inches for ,5 / 32 -and 7,-inch panels.
h. Maximum span 24 inches where 3 / 4 -inch wood finish flooring is installed at right angles to joists.
i. Maximum span 24 inches where 1.5 inches of lightweight concrete or approved cellular concrete is placed over the subfloor.
j. Unsupported edges shall have tongue-and-groove joints or shall be supported with blocking unless minimum nominal 7 4 -inch thick underlayment with end
and edge joints offset at least 2 inches or 1 .5 inches of lightweight concrete or approved cellular concrete is placed over the subfloor, or %-inch wood finish
flooring is installed at right angles to the supports. Allowable uniform live load at maximum span, based on deflection of 7 M0 of span, is 100 psf.
k. Unsupported edges shall have tongue-and-groove joints or shall be supported by blocking unless nominal 7 4 -inch-lhick underlayment with end and edge
joints offset at least 2 inches or V 4 -inch wood finish flooring is installed at right angles to the supports. Allowable uniform live load at maximum span, based
on deflection of 7 3S) of span, is 100 psf, except panels with a span rating of 48 on center are limited to 65 psf total uniform load at maximum span.
1. Allowable live load values at spans of 16" o.c. and 24" o.c taken from reference standard APA E30, APA Engineered Wood Construction Guide. Refer to
reference standard for allowable spans not listed in the table.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE"
125
FLOORS
and dead loads. Floor framing shall be designed to meet joist
deflection requirements in accordance with Section R301.
R504.1.1 Unbalanced soil loads. Unless special provision
is made to resist sliding caused by unbalanced lateral soil
loads, wood basement floors shall be limited to applica-
tions where the differential depth of fill on opposite exte-
rior foundation walls is 2 feet (610 mm) or less.
R504.1.2 Construction. Joists in wood basement floors
shall bear tightly against the narrow face of studs in the
foundation wall or directly against a band joist that bears
on the studs. Plywood subfloor shall be continuous over
lapped joists or over butt joints between in-line joists. Suf-
ficient blocking shall be provided between joists to trans-
fer lateral forces at the base of the end walls into the floor
system.
R504.1.3 Uplift and buckling. Where required, resistance
to uplift or restraint against buckling shall be provided by
interior bearing walls or properly designed stub walls
anchored in the supporting soil below.
R504.2 Site preparation. The area within the foundation
walls shall have all vegetation, topsoil and foreign material
removed, and any fill material that is added shall be free of
vegetation and foreign material. The fill shall be compacted
to assure uniform support of the pressure preservatively
treated-wood floor sleepers.
R504.2.1 Base. A minimum 4-inch-thick (102 mm) granu-
lar base of gravel having a maximum size of % inch (19.1
mm) or crushed stone having a maximum size of '/, inch
(12.7 mm) shall be placed over the compacted earth.
R504.2.2 Moisture barrier. Polyethylene sheeting of
minimum 6-mil (0.15 mm) thickness shall be placed over
the granular base. Joints shall be lapped 6 inches (152
mm) and left unsealed. The polyethylene membrane shall
be placed over the pressure preservatively treated-wood
sleepers and shall not extend beneath the footing plates of
the exterior walls.
R504.3 Materials. All framing materials, including sleepers,
joists, blocking and plywood subflooring, shall be pressure-
preservative treated and dried after treatment in accordance
with AWPA Ul (Commodity Specification A, Use Category
4B and Section 5.2), and shall bear the label of an accredited
agency.
SECTION R505
STEEL FLOOR FRAMING
R505.1 Cold-formed steel floor framing. Elements shall be
straight and free of any defects that would significantly affect
structural performance. Cold-formed steel floor framing
members shall comply with the requirements of this section.
R50S.1.1 Applicability limits. The provisions of this sec-
tion shall control the construction of cold-formed steel
floor framing for buildings not greater than 60 feet (18 288
mm) in length perpendicular to the joist span, not greater
than 40 feet (12 192 mm) in width parallel to the joist
span, and less than or equal to three stories above grade
plane. Cold-formed steel floor framing constructed in
accordance with the provisions of this section shall be lim-
ited to sites subjected to a maximum design wind speed of
1 10 miles per hour (49 m/s), Exposure B or C, and a max-
imum ground snow load of 70 pounds per square foot
(3.35 kPa).
R505.1.2 In-line framing. When supported by cold-
formed steel framed walls in accordance with Section
R603, cold-formed steel floor framing shall be constructed
with floor joists located in-line with load-bearing studs
located below the joists in accordance with Figure
R505.1 .2 and the tolerances specified as follows:
1. The maximum tolerance shall be 3 / 4 inch (19.1 mm)
between the centerline of the horizontal framing
member and the centerline of the vertical framing
member.
2. Where the centerline of the horizontal framing
member and bearing stiffener are located to one side
of the centerline of the vertical framing member, the
maximum tolerance shall be V 8 inch (3 mm) between
the web of the horizontal framing member and the
edge of the vertical framing member.
R505.1.3 Floor trusses. Cold-formed steel trusses shall be
designed, braced and installed in accordance with AISI
SI 00, Section D4. In the absence of specific bracing
requirements, trusses shall be braced in accordance with
accepted industry practices, such as the SBCA Cold-
Formed Steel Building Component Safety Information
(CFSBCSI), Guide to Good Practice for Handling, Install-
ing & Bracing of Cold-Formed Steel Trusses. Truss mem-
bers shall not be notched, cut or altered in any manner
without an approved design.
TABLE R505.2(1)
COLD-FORMED STEEL JOIST SIZES
MEMBER DESIGNATION"
WEB DEPTH
(inches)
MINIMUM FLANGE WIDTH
(inches)
MAXIMUM FLANGE WIDTH
(inches)
MINIMUM LIP SIZE
(inches)
550S162-t
5.5
1.625
2
0.5
800S162-t
8
1.625
2
0.5
I000S162-1
10
1.625
0.5
1200S162-t
12
1.625
2
0.5
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
a. The member designation is defined by the first number representing the member depth in 0.01 inch, the letter "S" representing a stud or joist member, the
second number representing the flange width in 0.01 inch, and the letter "t" shall be a number representing the minimum base metal thickness in mils [See
Table R505.2(2)].
126
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 89
FLOORS
R505.2 Structural framing. Load-bearing cold-formed steel
floor framing members shall comply with Figure R505.2(l)
and with the dimensional and minimum thickness require-
ments specified in Tables R505.2(l) and R505.2(2). Tracks
shall comply with Figure R505.2(2) and shall have a mini-
mum flange width of 1 V 4 inches (32 mm).
TABLE R505.2(2)
MINIMUM THICKNESS OF COLD-FORMED STEEL MEMBERS
DESIGNATION THICKNESS
(mils)
MINIMUM BASE STEEL THICKNESS
(inches)
33
0.0329
43
0.0428
54
0.0538
68
0.0677
97
0.0966
For SI: inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
R505.2.1 Material. Load-bearing cold-formed steel fram-
ing members shall be cold formed to shape from structural
quality sheet steel complying with the requirements of one
of the following:
1. ASTM A 653: Grades 33 and 50 (Class 1 and 3).
2. ASTM A 792: Grades 33 and 50A.
3. ASTM A 1003: Structural Grades 33 Type H and 50
Type H.
FLANGE
WEB
DEPTH OF WEB
(OUTSIDE TO
OUTSIDE)
FIGURE R505.2(1)
C-SHAPED SECTION
HORIZONTAL
FRAMING
MEMBER
BEARING STIFFENER
TRACK
STUD
C_STUD
HORIZONTAL HORIZONTAL
£ FRAMING C FRAMING
MEMBER MEMBER
%" (19 mm) .
MAX.-W
M
h"^ —
3 A" (19 mm)
MAX.
VERTICAL
<t FRAMING
MEMBER
VERTICAL
<t FRAMING
MEMBER
HORIZONTAL
FRAMING
MEMBER
BEARING STIFFENER
TRACK
STUD
C BEARING
STIFFENER
HORIZONTAL
FRAMING
MEMBER
JJ
-7s" (3mm) MAX
FROM WEB OF
HORIZONTAL
FRAMING
MEMBER TO
EDGE OF
VERTICAL
FRAMING
MEMBER
- 3 / 4 " (19 mm)
MAX.
VERTICAL
FRAMING
MEMBER
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R505.1 .2
IN-LINE FRAMING
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
127
FLOORS
FLANGE
WEB.
SIZE OF TRACK
(INSIDE TO INSIDE)
FIGURE R505.2(2)
TRACK SECTION
R50S.2.2 Identification. Load-bearing cold-formed steel
framing members shall have a legible label, stencil, stamp
or embossment with the following information as a mini-
mum:
1. Manufacturer's identification.
2. Minimum base steel thickness in inches (mm).
3. Minimum coating designation.
4. Minimum yield strength, in kips per square inch
(ksi)(MPa).
R505.2.3 Corrosion protection. Load-bearing cold-
formed steel framing shall have a metallic coating comply-
ing with ASTM A 1003 and one of the following:
1 . A minimum of G 60 in accordance with ASTM A
653.
2. A minimum of AZ 50 in accordance with ASTM A
792.
R505.2.4 Fastening requirements. Screws for steel-to-
steel connections shall be installed with a minimum edge
distance and center-to-center spacing of V 2 inch (12.7
mm), shall be self-drilling tapping, and shall conform to
ASTM C 1513. Floor sheathing shall be attached to cold-
formed steel joists with minimum No. 8 self-drilling tap-
ping screws that conform to ASTM C 1513. Screws
attaching floor-sheathing to cold-formed steel joists shall
have a minimum head diameter of 0.292 inch (7.4 mm)
with countersunk heads and shall be installed with a mini-
mum edge distance of 3 / 8 inch (9.5 mm). Gypsum board
ceilings shall be attached to cold-formed steel joists with
minimum No. 6 screws conforming to ASTM C 954 or
ASTM C 1513 with a bugle head style and shall be
installed in accordance with Section R702. For all connec-
tions, screws shall extend through the steel a minimum of
three exposed threads. All fasteners shall have rust inhibi-
tive coating suitable for the installation in which they are
being used, or be manufactured from material not suscep-
tible to corrosion.
Where No. 8 screws are specified in a steel-to-steel
connection, the required number of screws in the connec-
tion is permitted to be reduced in accordance with the
reduction factors in Table R505.2.4 when larger screws
are used or when one of the sheets of steel being con-
nected is thicker than 33 mils (0.84 mm). When applying
the reduction factor, the resulting number of screws shall
be rounded up.
TABLE R505.2.4
SCREW SUBSTITUTION FACTOR
SCREW SIZE
THINNEST CONNECTED STEEL SHEET (mils)
33
43
#8
1.0
0.67
#10
0.93
0.62
#12
0.86
0.56
For SI: I mil = 0.0254 mm.
R505.2.5 Web holes, web hole reinforcing and web hole
patching. Web holes, web hole reinforcing, and web hole
patching shall be in accordance with this section.
R505.2.5.1 Web holes. Web holes in floor joists shall
comply with all of the following conditions:
1. Holes shall conform to Figure R505.2.5.1;
2. Holes shall be permitted only along the centerline
of the web of the framing member;
3. Holes shall have a center-to-center spacing of not
less than 24 inches (610 mm);
4. Holes shall have a web hole width not greater
than 0.5 times the member depth, or 2'/ 2 inches
(64.5 mm);
5. Holes shall have a web hole length not exceeding
4 1 /, inches (114 mm); and
6. Holes shall have a minimum distance between
the edge of the bearing surface and the edge of
the web hole of not less than 10 inches (254 mm).
Framing members with web holes not conforming
to the above requirements shall be reinforced in accor-
dance with Section R505.2.5.2, patched in accordance
with Section R505.2.5.3 or designed in accordance with
accepted engineering practices.
R505.2.5.2 Web hole reinforcing. Reinforcement of
web holes in floor joists not conforming to the require-
ments of Section R505.2.5.1 shall be permitted if the
hole is located fully within the center 40 percent of the
span and the depth and length of the hole does not
exceed 65 percent of the flat width of the web. The
reinforcing shall be a steel plate or C-shape section
with a hole that does not exceed the web hole size limi-
tations of Section R505.2.5.1 for the member being
reinforced. The steel reinforcing shall be the same
128
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
FLOORS
thickness as the receiving member and shall extend at
least 1 inch (25.4 mm) beyond all edges of the hole.
The steel reinforcing shall be fastened to the web of the
receiving member with No. 8 screws spaced no more
than 1 inch (25.4 mm) center-to-center along the edges
of the patch with minimum edge distance of V 2 inch
(12.7 mm).
R505.2.5.3 Hole patching. Patching of web holes in
floor joists not conforming to the requirements in Sec-
tion R505.2.5.1 shall be permitted in accordance with
either of the following methods:
1 . Framing members shall be replaced or designed
in accordance with accepted engineering prac-
tices where web holes exceed the following size
limits:
1.1. The depth of the hole, measured across
the web, exceeds 70 percent of the flat
width of the web; or
1.2. The length of the hole measured along the
web, exceeds 10 inches (254 mm) or the
depth of the web, whichever is greater.
2. Web holes not exceeding the dimensional
requirements in Section R505.2.5.3, Item 1, shall
be patched with a solid steel plate, stud section,
or track section in accordance with Figure
R505.2.5.3. The steel patch shall, as a minimum,
be of the same thickness as the receiving member
and shall extend at least 1 inch (25 mm) beyond
all edges of the hole. The steel patch shall be fas-
tened to the web of the receiving member with
No. 8 screws spaced no more than 1 inch (25
mm) center-to-center along the edges of the patch
with minimum edge distance of '/, inch (13 mm).
R505.3 Floor construction. Cold-formed steel floors shall
be constructed in accordance with this section.
R505.3.1 Floor to foundation or load-bearing wall con-
nections. Cold-formed steel framed floors shall be
anchored to foundations, wood sills or load-bearing walls
in accordance with Table R505.3.1(l) and Figure
R505.3.1Q), R505.3.1(2), R505.3.1(3), R505.3.1(4),
R505.3.K5) or R505.3.1(6). Anchor bolts shall be located
not more than 1 2 inches (305 mm) from corners or the ter-
mination of bottom tracks. Continuous cold-formed steel
joists supported by interior load-bearing walls shall be
constructed in accordance with Figure R505.3.1(7).
Lapped cold-formed steel joists shall be constructed in
accordance with Figure R505.3.1(8). End floor joists con-
structed on foundation walls parallel to the joist span shall
be doubled unless a C-shaped bearing stiffener, sized in
accordance with Section R505.3.4, is installed web-to-web
with the floor joist beneath each supported wall stud, as
shown in Figure R505.3.1(9). Fastening of cold-formed
steel joists to other framing members shall be in accor-
dance with Section R505.2.4 and Table R505.3.1(2).
JOIST
NO. 8 SCREWS
SPACED AT 1 IN. O.C.
(TYP.)
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R505.2.5.3
WEB HOLE PATCH
10 IN. MIN
27, IN. MAX
BEARING CONDITION
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R505.2.5.1
FLOOR JOIST WEB HOLES
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE*
129
FLOORS
TABLE R505.3.1(1)
FLOOR TO FOUNDATION OR BEARING WALL CONNECTION REQUIREMENTS 3 b
FRAMING CONDITION
Floor joist to wall track of exterior wall per
Figure R505.3. 1(1)
Rim track or end joist to load-bearing wall top
track per Figure R505.3. 1(1)
Rim track or end joist to wood sill per Figure
R505.3.1(2)
Rim track or end joist to foundation per Figure
R505.3.1(3)
Cantilevered joist to foundation per Figure
R505.3.1(4)
Cantilevered joist to wood sill per
Figure R505.3. 1(5)
Cantilevered joist to exterior load-bearing
wall track per Figure R505.3. 1 (6)
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph) AND EXPOSURE
85 mph Exposure C or
less than 110 mph Exposure B
2-No. 8 screws
1-No. 8 screw at 24 inches o.c.
Steel plate spaced at 4 feet o.c. with 4-No. 8
screws and 4-10d or 6-8d common nails
/ 2 inch minimum diameter anchor bolt and
clip angle spaced at 6 feet o.c. with 8-No. 8
screws
/ 2 inch minimum diameter anchor bolt and
clip angle spaced at 6 feet o.c. with 8-No. 8
screws
Steel plate spaced at 4 feet o.c. with 4-No. !
screws and 4-10d or 6-8d common nails
2-No. 8 screws
Less than 110 mph Exposure C
3-No. 8 screws
1-No. 8 screw at 24 inches o.c
Steel plate spaced at 2 feet o.c. with 4-No. 8
screws and 4-1 Od or 6-8d common nails
A, inch minimum diameter anchor bolt and
clip angle spaced at 4 feet o.c. with 8-No. 8
screws
7 2 inch minimum diameter anchor bolt and
clip angle spaced at 4 feet o.c. with 8-No. 8
screws
Steel plate spaced at 2 feet o.c. with 4-No. 8
screws and 4-10d or 6-8d common nails
3 -No. 8 screws
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Anchor bolts are to be located not more than 12 inches from corners or the termination of bottom tracks (e.g., at door openings or corners) Bolts extend a
minimum of 15 inches into masonry or 7 inches into concrete. Anchor bolts connecting cold-formed steel framing to the foundation structure are to be
installed so that the distance from the center of the bolt hole to the edge of the connected member is not less than one and one-half bolt diameters.
b. All screw sizes shown are minimum.
RIM TRACK
(MIN. 33 MIL THICK)
WEB STIFFENER
NO. 8 SCREWS THROUGH
JOIST FLANGE, CLIP ANGLE
OR BENT STIFFENER
TRACK
FASTEN RIM TRACK TO
WALL TRACK WITH NO.
SCREWS AT 24 IN. O.C.
SHEATHING
JOIST
NO. 8 SCREW THROUGH
EACH FLANGE
LOAD-BEARING STUD
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, I inch = 25.4 i
FIGURE 505.3.1(1)
FLOOR TO EXTERIOR LOAD-BEARING WALL STUD CONNECTION
130
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FLOORS
TABLE R505.3.1(2)
FLOOR FASTENING SCHEDULE 3
DESCRIPTION OF BUILDING ELEMENTS
NUMBER AND SIZE OF FASTENERS
SPACING OF FASTENERS
Floor joist to track of an interior load-bearing wall
per Figures R505.3.1(7) and R505.3.1(8)
2 No. 8 screws
Each joist
Floor joist to track at end of joist
2 No. 8 screws
One per flange or two per bearing stiffener
Subfloor to floor joists
No. 8 screws
6 in. o.c. on edges and 12 in. o.c. at intermediate
supports
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. All screw sizes shown are minimum.
SHEATHING
4-NO. 8 SCREWS
RIM TRACK
MIN. 33MILTHICK
MIN.4-10dOR6-8d
COMMON NAILS
ANCHOR BOLT OR OTHER
CONNECTION AS REQUIRED
WOOD SILL AS REQUIRED
FOUNDATION
SILL SEALER AS REQUIRED
For SI: I mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R505.3.1 (2)
FLOOR TO WOOD SILL CONNECTION
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
131
FLOORS
WEBSTIFFENER
RIM TRACK
(MIN. 33 MIL THICK)
SILL SEALER
AS REQUIRED
SHEATHING
6 IN. * 6 IN * 54 MIL CLIP ANGLE FASTENED TO TRACK
WITH 8-NO. 8 SCREWS
FOUNDATION
For SI: I mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R505.3.1(3)
FLOOR TO FOUNDATION CONNECTION
WEB STIFFENER CAN BE INSTALLED
EITHER SIDE OF WEB
SILL SEALER
AS REQUIRED
FLOOR JOIST
FOUNDATION
For SI: 1 rail = 0.0254 mm.
FIGURE R505.3.1 (4)
CANTILEVERED FLOOR TO FOUNDATION CONNECTION
132
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FLOORS
BLOCKING EVERY OTHER JOIST
MIN. 33 MIL TRACK OR C-SHAPE
MIN. DEPTH = DEPTH OF JOIST - '!, IN
WEB STIFFENER
CONNECTION OF BLOCKING
TO JOIST THROUGH FLANGE
OF WEB STIFFENER, CLIP ANGLE
OR BENT WEB OF BLOCKING
WITH 2 NO. 8 SCREWS (MIN.
DEPTH OF ANGLE = JOIST DEPTH - 2 IN.
RIM TRACK
NO. 8 SCREW AT EACH
FLANGE (TOP AND BOTTOM)
• 4 NO. 8 SCREWS
3 IN. x 3 IN. x 33 MIL STEEL PLATE
4-1 Od OR 6-8d COMMON NAILS
WOOD SILL AS REQUIRED
FOUNDATION
SILL SEALER AS REQUIRED
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R505.3.1(5)
CANTILEVERED FLOOR TO WOOD S!LL CONNECTION
BLOCKING EVERY OTHER JOIST
(MIN. 33 MIL TRACK OR C-SHAPE
WEB STIFFENER
RIM TRACK
(MIN. 33 MIL THICK)
NO. 8 SCREWS THROUGH
FLANGE, CLIP ANGLE OR
BENT STIFFENER
TOP TRACK
LOAD-BEARING STUD
CONNECTION OF BLOCKING
TO JOIST THROUGH EACH
LEG OF WEB STIFFENER OR
CLIP ANGLE WITH 2 NO. 8
SCREWS
SHEATHING
JOIST
NO. 8 SCREW THROUGH
EACH FLANGE
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
FIGURE R505.3.1(6)
CANTILEVERED FLOOR TO EXTERIOR LOAD-BEARING WALL CONNECTION
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
133
FLOORS
CONNECTION OF BLOCKING
TO JOIST THROUGH FLANGE
OF WEB STIFFENER , CLIP ANGLE
OR BENT WEB OF BLOCKING
WITH 2 NO. 8 SCREWS (MIN. DEPTH
OF ANGLE = JOIST DEPTH - 2 IN.)
(SEE FIGURE R505.3.1{4) FOR BLOCKING
BLOCKING EVERY OTHER JOIST
MIN. 33 MIL TRACK OR C-SHAPE
MIN. DEPTH = JOIST DEPTH - 2 IN
WEB STIFFENER
(EITHER SIDE OF WEB)
JOIST
NO. 8 SCREWS THROUGH
FLANGE. CLIP ANGLE OR
BENT STEFFENER
TOP TRACK
LOAD-BEARING STUD
SHEATHING
NO. 8 SCREW THROUGH
EACH FLANGE
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, I inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R505.3.1(7)
CONTINUOUS SPAN JOIST SUPPORTED ON INTERIOR LOAD-BEARING WALL
134
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FLOORS
JOIST
4 NO. 8 SCREWS
THROUGH BOTH WEBS
(WEB STIFFENER IS REQUIRED
ONLY WHEN LOAD-BEARING
WALL IS LOCATED ABOVE)
TRACK
2 NO. 8 SCREWS
THROUGH FLANGE
(EACH SIDE)
LOAD-BEARING STUD
NO. 8 SCREW AT
EACH FLANGE
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R505.3.1 (8)
LAPPED JOISTS SUPPORTED ON INTERIOR LOAD-BEARING WALL
WALL STUDS
BEARING STIFFENERS TO MATCH
SPACING OF WALL STUDS ABOVE
END JOIST
FIGURE R505.3.1(9)
BEARING STIFFENERS FOR END JOISTS
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
135
FLOORS
R505.3.2 Minimum floor joist sizes. Floor joist size and
thickness shall be determined in accordance with the limits
set forth in Table R505. 3.2(1) for single spans, and Tables
R505.3.2(2) and R505.3.2(3) for multiple spans. When
continuous joist members are used, the interior bearing
supports shall be located within 2 feet (610 mm) of mid-
span of the cold-formed steel joists, and the individual
spans shall not exceed the spans in Table R505. 3.2(2) or
R505.3.2(3), as applicable. Floor joists shall have a bear-
ing support length of not less than 1 V 2 inches (38 mm) for
exterior wall supports and 3'/ 2 inches (89 mm) for interior
wall supports. Tracks shall be a minimum of 33 mils (0.84
mm) thick except when used as part of a floor header or
trimmer in accordance with Section R505.3.8. Bearing
stiffeners shall be installed in accordance with Section
R505.3.4.
R505.3.3 Joist bracing and blocking. Joist bracing and
blocking shall be in accordance with this section.
R505.3.3.1 Joist top flange bracing. The top flanges
of cold-formed steel joists shall be laterally braced by
the application of floor sheathing fastened to the joists
in accordance with Section R505.2.4 and Table
R505.3.1(2).
R505.3.3.2 Joist bottom flange bracing/blocking.
Floor joists with spans that exceed 12 feet (3658 mm)
shall have the bottom flanges laterally braced in accor-
dance with one of the following:
1. Gypsum board installed with minimum No. 6
screws in accordance with Section R702.
2. Continuous steel straps installed in accordance
with Figure R505.3.3.2Q). Steel straps shall be
spaced at a maximum of 12 feet (3658 mm) on
center and shall be at least 1 7 2 inches (38 mm) in
width and 33 mils (0.84 mm) in thickness. Straps
shall be fastened to the bottom flange of each
joist with one No. 8 screw, fastened to blocking
with two No. 8 screws, and fastened at each end
(of strap) with two No. 8 screws. Blocking in
accordance with Figure R505.3.3.2(l) or Figure
R505.3.3.2(2) shall be installed between joists at
each end of the continuous strapping and at a
maximum spacing of 12 feet (3658 mm) mea-
sured along the continuous strapping (perpendic-
ular to the joist run). Blocking shall also be
located at the termination of all straps. As an
alternative to blocking at the ends, anchoring the
strap to a stable building component with two
No. 8 screws shall be permitted.
TABLE R505.3.2(1)
ALLOWABLE SPANS FOR COLD-FORMED STEEL JOISTS— SINGLE SPANS 3 " ■" 33 ksi STEEL
JOIST
DESIGNATION
30 PSF LIVE LOAD
40 PSF LIVE LOAD
Spacing (inches)
Spacing (inches)
12
16
19.2
24
12
16
19.2
24
550S 162-33
11 '-!"
10'-7"
9'-6"
8'-6"
10'-7"
9'-3"
8'-6"
7'-6"
550S 162-43
12'-8"
11 '-6"
10'- 10"
10'-2"
11 '-6"
10'-5"
9'- 10"
9'-l"
550S 162-54
13'-7"
12'-4"
11 '-7"
10'-9"
12'-4"
11 '-2"
10'-6"
9'-9"
550S162-68
14'-7"
13'-3"
12'-6"
11 '-7"
13'-3"
12'-0"
11 '-4"
10'-6"
550S 162-97
16'-2"
14'-9"
13'- 10"
12'- 10"
14'-9"
13'-4"
12'-7"
11 '-8"
800S 162-33
15'-8"
13'-11"
12'-9"
11 '-5"
14'-3"
12'-5"
ll'-3"
9'-0"
800S162-43
17'- 1"
15'-6"
14'-7"
13'-7"
15'-6"
14'- 1"
13'-3"
12'-4"
800S 162-54
18'~4"
16'-8"
15'-8"
14'-7"
16'-8"
15'-2"
14'-3"
13'-3"
800S 162-68
l9'-9"
17'- 11"
16'- 10"
15'-8"
17'- 11"
16'-3"
15'-4"
14'-2"
800S 162-97
22'-0"
20'-0"
16'- 10"
17'-5"
20'-0"
18'-2"
17'-1"
15'-10"
1000S 162-43
20'-6"
18'-8"
17'-6"
15'-8"
IS' 8"
16'- 11"
15'-6"
13'-11"
1000S 162-54
22'- 1"
20'-0"
18'- 10"
17'-6"
20'-0"
18'-2"
17'-2"
15' 1 1"
1000S162-68
23'-9"
21 '-7"
20'-3"
18'- 10"
21'-7"
19'-7"
18'-5"
17'-1"
I000S 162-97
26'-6"
24'-1"
22'-8"
21/-0"
24'- 1"
21'-10"
20'-7"
19'-1"
1200S 162-43
23'-9"
20'- 10"
19' 0"
16'-8"
21 '-5"
18'-6"
16'-6"
13'-2"
1200S1 62-54
25'-9"
23'-4"
22'-0"
20'- 1"
23'-4"
21 '-3"
20'0"
17'- 10"
1200S 162-68
27'-8"
25'- 1"
23'-8"
21'-11"
25'- 1"
22'- 10"
21'-6"
21'- r
1200S162-97
30'- 11"
28'- 1"
26'-5"
24'-6"
28'- 1"
25'-6"
24'-0"
22'-3"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Deflection criteria: L/480 for live loads, Z./240 for total loads.
b. Floor dead load = 1 psF.
c. Table provides the maximum clear span in feet and inches.
d. Bearing stiffeners are to be installed at all support points and concentrated loads.
136
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FLOORS
TABLE R505.3.2(2)
ALLOWABLE SPANS FOR COLD-FORMED STEEL JOISTS— MULTIPLE SPANS* "■ ■=■"■'
< 33 ksi STEEL
JOIST
DESIGNATION
30 PSF LIVE LOAD
40 PSF LIVE LOAD
Spacing (inches)
Spacing (inches)
12
16
19.2
24
12
16
19.2
24
550S 162-33
12'-l"
10'-5"
9'-6"
8'-6"
l0'-9"
9'-3"
8'-6"
7'-6"
550S 162-43
l4'-5"
12'-5"
11 '-4"
10'-2"
12'-9"
ll'-ll"
lO'-l"
9'-0"
550S 162-54
l6'-3"
14'- 1"
12'- 10"
11 '-6"
14'-5"
12'-6"
1 1'-5"
10'-2"
550S 162-68
!9'-7"
17'-9"
16'-9"
l5'-6"
17'-9"
16'-2"
l5'-2"
14'-1"
550S 162-97
21 '-9"
19'-9"
18'-7"
l7'-3"
l9'-9"
17'-ll"
16'-l0"
15'-4"
800S 162-33
14'-8"
ll'-lO"
10'-4"
8'-8"
12'-4"
9'- II"
8'-7"
7'-2"
800S 162-43
20'-0"
17'-4"
15'-9"
14'- 1"
17'-9"
15'-4"
l.4'-0"
1 2'-0"
800S 162-54
23'-7"
20'-5"
18'-8"
16'-8"
21'0"
18'-2"
16'-7"
14'-10"
800S 162-68
26'-5"
23'- 1"
21'-0"
18'- 10"
23'-8"
20'-6"
l8'-8"
16'-9"
800S 162-97
29'-6"
26'- 10"
25'-3"
22'-8"
26'- 10"
24'-4"
22'-6"
20'-2"
1000S 162-43
22'-2"
18'-3"
16'-0"
13'-7"
18'- 11"
15'-5"
13'-6"
1 1 '-5"
1000S 162-54
26'-2"
22'-8"
20'-8"
18'-6"
23'-3"
20'-2"
1 8'-5"
16'-5"
1000S 162-68
31 '-5"
27'-2"
24'- 10"
22'-2"
27'-ll"
24'-2"
22'- 1"
19'-9"
1000S 162-97
35'-6"
32'-3"
29'- 11"
26'-9"
32'-3"
29'-2"
26'-7"
23'-9"
1200S 162-43
21'-8"
17' 6"
l5'-3"
12'- 10"
18'-3"
14'-8"
12'-8"
IO'-6"
1200S 162-54
28'-5"
24'-8"
22'-6"
19'-6"
25'-3"
21'-11"
19'-4"
16'-6"
1200S 162-68
33'-7"
29'-l"
26'-6"
23'-9"
29'- 10"
25'-10"
23'-7"
21'-1"
1200S 162-97
41'-5"
37'-8"
34'-6"
30'- 10"
37'-8"
33'-6"
30'-7"
27'-5"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Deflection criteria: L/480 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Floor dead load = 10 psf.
c. Table provides the maximum clear span in feet and inches to either side of the interior support.
d. Interior bearing supports for multiple span joists consist of structural (bearing) walls or beams.
e. Bearing stiffeners are to be installed at all support points and concentrated loads.
f. Interior supports shall be located within 2 feet of mid-span provided that each of the resulting spans does not exceed the appropriate maximum span shown in
the table above.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE B
137
FLOORS
TABLE R505.3.2{3)
ALLOWABLE SPANS FOR COLD-FORMED STEEL JOISTS— MULTIPLE SPANS* b c de '50 ksi STEEL
JOIST
DESIGNATION
30 PSF LIVE LOAD
40 PSF LIVE LOAD
Spacing (inches)
Spacing (inches)
12
16
19.2
24
12
16
19.2
24
550S 162-33
13'-ll"
12'-0"
11' 0"
9'-3"
!2'-3"
l0'-8"
9'-7"
8'-4"
550S162-43
16'-3"
14'- 1"
12'- 10"
11 '-6"
14'-6"
12'-6"
11 '-5"
10'-3"
550S 162-54
18'-2"
16'-6"
15'-4"
13'-8"
16'-6"
!4'-ll"
13'-7"
12'-2"
550S162-68
19'-6"
17'-9"
16'-8"
15'-6"
17'-9"
16'-1"
15'-2"
14'-0"
550SI 62-97
21 '-9"
19'-9"
18'-6"
17'-2"
19'-8"
17'- 10"
16'-8"
15'-8"
800S 162-33
15'-6"
12'-6"
lO'-lO"
9'-l"
13'-0"
10'-5"
8'- 11"
6'-9"
800S162-43
22'-0"
I9'-1"
l7'-5"
15'-0"
19'-7"
16'- 11"
14'- 10"
12'-8"
800S 162-54
24'-6"
22'-4"
20'-6"
17'- 11"
22'-5"
19'-9"
17'- 11"
15'-10"
800S 162-68
26'-6"
24'- 1"
22'-8"
21'-0"
24'- 1"
21'- 10"
20'-7"
l.9'-2"
800SJ62-97
29'-9"
26'-8"
25'-2"
23'-5"
26'-8"
24'-3"
22'- 11"
21 '-4"
1000S 162-43
23'-6"
l9'-2"
16'-9"
14'-2"
19'-11"
16'-2"
14'-0"
1 1'-9"
1000S 162-54
28'-2"
23'- 10"
21 '-!"
18'- II"
24'-8"
20'-ll"
18'-9"
18'-4"
1000S 162-68
31'-10"
28'- 11"
2T-2"
25'-3"
28'- 11"
26'-3"
24'-9"
22'-9"
1000S 162-97
35'-4"
32'- 1"
30'-3"
28'- 1"
32'- 1"
29'-2"
27'-6"
25'-6"
1200S 162-43
22'- U"
18' 5"
16'-0"
13'-4"
19'-2"
15'-4"
l3'-2"
IO'-6"
1200S 162-54
32'-8"
28'- 1"
24'-9"
21'-2"
29'-0"
23'- 10"
20'-] 1"
17'-9"
1200S 162-68
37'-l"
32'-5"
29'-4"
25'- 10"
33'-4"
28'-6"
25'-9"
22'-7"
1200S 162-97
41 '-2"
37'~6"
35'-3"
32'-9"
37'-6"
34'- 1"
32'- 1"
29'-9"
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Deflection criteria: Z/480 for live loads, 1/240 for total loads.
b. Floor dead load = 10 psf.
c. Table provides the maximum clear span in feet and inches to either side of the interior support.
d. Interior bearing supports for multiple span joists consist of structural (bearing) walls or beams.
e. Bearing stiffeners are to be installed at all support points and concentrated loads.
f. Interior supports shall be located within 2 feet of mid-span provided that each of the resulting spans does not exceed the appropriate maximum span shown in
the table above.
138
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FLOORS
SUBFLOOR
SHEATHING
MIN. 33 MIL SOLID BLOCKING
AT EACH END AND AT 12 IN. O.C.
(DEPTH OF BLOCKING = JOIST
DEPTH MINUS 2 IN.
JOIST
MIN. 2 IN. X 2 IN. X 33 MIL CLIP ANGLE
FASTENED WITH 2 NO. 3 SCREWS
THROUGH EACH LEG (DEPTH OF ANGLE
= JOIST DEPTH MINUS 2 IN.)
CONTINUOUS 17 2 IN. X 33
MIL STEEL STRAP
2 NO. 8 SCREWS THROUGH
STRAP TO BLOCKING
NO. 8 SCREW THROUGH
STRAP TO JOIST (TYP.)
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254, 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R505.3.3.2(1)
JOIST BLOCKING (SOLID)
NO. 8 SCREW THROUGH
BRACE AT EACH FLANGE
JOIST
JOIST
MIN. 1 1 / 2 IN. x33
MIL FLAT STRAP
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254, 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R505.3.3.2(2)
JOIST BLOCKING (STRAP)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
139
FLOORS
R505.3.3.3 Blocking at interior bearing supports.
Blocking is not required for continuous back-to-back
floor joists at bearing supports. Blocking shall be
installed between every other joist for single continu-
ous floor joists across bearing supports in accordance
with Figure R505.3.1(7). Blocking shall consist of C-
shape or track section with a minimum thickness of 33
mils (0.84 mm). Blocking shall be fastened to each
adjacent joist through a 33-mil (0.84 mm) clip angle,
bent web of blocking or flanges of web stiffeners with
two No. 8 screws on each side. The minimum depth of
the blocking shall be equal to the depth of the joist
minus 2 inches (51 mm). The minimum length of the
angle shall be equal to the depth of the joist minus 2
inches (51 mm).
R505.3.3.4 Blocking at cantilevers. Blocking shall be
installed between every other joist over cantilever bear-
ing supports in accordance with Figure R505.3.1(4),
R505.3.1(5) or R505.3.1(6). Blocking shall consist of
C-shape or track section with minimum thickness of 33
mils (0.84 mm). Blocking shall be fastened to each
adjacent joist through bent web of blocking, 33 mil clip
angle or flange of web stiffener with two No. 8 screws
at each end. The depth of the blocking shall be equal to
the depth of the joist. The minimum length of the angle
shall be equal to the depth of the joist minus 2 inches
(51 mm). Blocking shall be fastened through the floor
sheathing and to the support with three No. 8 screws
(top and bottom).
R505.3.4 Bearing stiffeners. Bearing stiffeners shall be
installed at each joist bearing location in accordance with
this section, except for joists lapped over an interior sup-
port not carrying a load-bearing wall above. Floor joists
supporting jamb studs with multiple members shall have
two bearing stiffeners in accordance with Figure
R505.3.4(l). Bearing stiffeners shall be fabricated from a
C-shaped, track or clip angle member in accordance with
the one of following:
1. C-shaped bearing stiffeners:
1.1. Where the joist is not carrying a load-bearing
wall above, the bearing stiffener shall be a
minimum 33 mil (0.84 mm) thickness.
1.2. Where the joist is carrying a load-bearing
wall above, the bearing stiffener shall be at
least the same designation thickness as the
wall stud above.
2. Track bearing stiffeners:
2. 1 . Where the joist is not carrying a load-bearing
wall above, the bearing stiffener shall be a
minimum 43 mil (1.09 mm) thickness.
2.2. Where the joist is carrying a load-bearing
wall above, the bearing stiffener shall be at
least one designation thickness greater than
the wall stud above.
3. Clip angle bearing stiffeners: Where the clip angle
bearing stiffener is fastened to both the web of the
member it is stiffening and an adjacent rim track
using the fastener pattern shown in Figure
R505. 3.4(2), the bearing stiffener shall be a mini-
mum 2 inch by 2 inch (51 mm by 51 mm) angle
sized in accordance with Tables R505.3.4(l),
R505.3.4(2), R505.3.4(3), and R505.3.4(4).
The minimum length of a bearing stiffener shall be the
depth of member being stiffened minus 3 / g inch (9.5 mm).
Each bearing stiffener shall be fastened to the web of the
member it is stiffening as shown in Figure R505.3.4(2).
Each clip angle bearing stiffener shall also be fastened to
the web of the adjacent rim track using the fastener pattern
shown in Figure R505.3.4(2). No. 8 screws shall be used
for C-shaped and track members of any thickness and for
clip angle members with a designation thickness less than
or equal to 54. No. 10 screws shall be used for clip angle
members with a designation thickness greater than 54.
JAMB STUDS
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
BEARING STIFFENER -
INSIDE JOIST
BEARING STIFFENER
ATTACHED TO BACK
OF JOIST
PSlliPj
FIGURE R505.3.4(1)
BEARING STIFFENERS UNDER JAMB STUDS
R505.3.5 Cutting and notching. Flanges and lips of load-
bearing cold-formed steel floor framing members shall not
be cut or notched.
R505.3.6 Floor cantilevers. Floor cantilevers for the top
floor of a two- or three-story building or the first floor of a
one-story building shall not exceed 24 inches (610 mm).
Cantilevers, not exceeding 24 inches (610 mm) and sup-
porting two stories and roof (i.e., first floor of a two-story
building), shall also be permitted provided that all cantile-
vered joists are doubled (nested or back-to-back). The
doubled cantilevered joists shall extend a minimum of 6
feet (1829 mm) toward the inside and shall be fastened
with a minimum of two No. 8 screws spaced at 24 inches
(610 mm) on center through the webs (for back-to-back)
or flanges (for nested joists).
R505.3.7 Splicing. Joists and other structural members
shall not be spliced. Splicing of tracks shall conform to
Figure R505.3.7.
140
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FLOORS
C-SECTION/TRACK
CLIP ANGLE
/
/
\
\
\
MIN. LENGTH = I
DEPTH OF WEB I
MINUS 3 /, IN.
MIN. LENGTH =
DEPTH OF WEB
MINUS 3 /, IN.
1
\ L (4)-NO. 8 SCREWS
V EQUALLY SPACED /
/
/"
/
\
/
\
MAX. SPACING
FROM JOIST
TOP=7, IN. ,
/
MIN. LENGTH
= DEPTH OF I
WEB 3 / a IN.
(3)-NO.8ORNO.10
SCREWS EQUALLY /
\ SPACED (IN BOTH LEGS /
sOFANGLE) y
I
BEARING STIFFENER
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R505.3.4(2)
BEARING STIFFENER
TABLE R505.3.4(1)
CLIP ANGLE BEARING STIFFENERS
(20 psf equivalent snow load)
JOIST DESIGNATION
MINIMUM THICKNESS (mils) OF 2 INCH x 2 INCH CLIP ANGLE
Top floor
Bottom floor in 2 story
Middle floor in 3 story
Bottom floor in 3 story
Joist spacing (inches)
Joist spacing (inches)
Joist spacing (inches)
12
16
19.2
24
12
16
19.2
24
12
16
19.2
24
800S 162-33
43
43
43
43
43
54
68
68
68
97
97
—
800S 162-43
43
43
43
43
54
54
68
68
97
97
97
97
800S 162-54
43
43
43
43
43
54
68
68
68
97
97
—
800S 162-68
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
68
54
97
97
—
800S162-97
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
97
1000S 162-43
43
43
43
43
54
68
97
97
97
—
—
—
1000S 162-54
43
43
43
43
54
68
68
97
97
97
—
—
1000S 162-68
43
43
43
43
54
68
97
97
97
—
—
—
1000S 162-97
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
43
68
97
—
1200S 162-43
43
54
54
54
97
97
97
97
—
—
—
—
1200S 162-54
54
54
54
54
97
97
97
97
—
—
—
—
1200S 162-68
43
43
54
54
68
97
97
97
—
—
—
—
1200S 162-97
43
43
43
43
43
54
68
97
97
—
—
—
For SI: 1 mil = 0.254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
141
FLOORS
TABLE R505.3.4(2)
CLIP ANGLE BEARING STIFFENERS
(30 psf equivalent snow load)
JOIST DESIGNATION
MINIMUM THICKNESS (mils) OF 2 INCH x 2 INCH CLIP ANGLE
Top floor
Bottom floor in 2 story
Middle floor in 3 story
Bottom floor in 3 story
Joist spacing (inches)
Joist spacing (inches)
Joist spacing (inches)
12
16
19.2
24
12
16
19.2
24
12
16
19.2
24
800S 162-33
43
43
43
43
54
68
68
97
97
97
97
—
800S 162-43
43
43
43
54
68
68
68
97
97
97
97
—
800S 162-54
43
43
43
43
54
68
68
97
97
97
—
—
800S 162-68
43
43
43
43
43
54
68
97
68
97
97
—
800S 162-97
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
68
97
1000S 162-43
54
54
54
54
68
97
97
97
97
—
—
—
1000S 162-54
54
54
54
54
68
97
97
97
97
—
—
—
1000S162-68
43
43
54
68
68
97
97
—
97
—
—
—
1000S 162-97
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
68
54
97
—
—
1200S 162-43
54
68
68
68
97
97
97
1200S 162-54
68
68
68
68
97
97
1200S 162-68
68
68
68
68
97
97
97
1200S 162-97
43
43
43
43
54
68
97
—
97
—
—
—
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
TABLE R505.3.4(3)
CUP ANGLE BEARING STIFFENERS
(50 psf equivalent snow load)
JOIST DESIGNATION
MINIMUM THICKNESS (mils) OF 2 INCH x 2 INCH CLIP ANGLE
Top floor
Bottom floor in 2 story
Middle floor in 3 story
Bottom floor in 3 story
Joist spacing (inches)
Joist spacing (inches)
Joist spacing (inches)
12
16
19.2
24
12
16
19.2
24
12
16
19.2
24
800S 162-33
54
54
54
54
68
97
97
97
97
—
—
—
800S 162-43
68
68
68
68
97
97
97
97
—
—
—
—
800S 162-54
54
68
68
68
97
97
97
97
—
—
—
—
800S 162-68
43
43
54
54
68
97
97
97
97
—
—
—
800S 162-97
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
68
97
—
1000S 162-43
97
68
68
68
97
97
97
97
—
—
—
—
1000S 162-54
97
97
68
68
97
97
97
—
—
—
—
—
1000S 162-68
68
97
97
97
97
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
1000S 162-97
43
43
43
43
54
68
97
97
—
—
—
—
1200S 162-43
97
97
97
97
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
1200S 162-54
—
97
97
97
—
1200S 162-68
97
97
97
97
—
1200S 162-97
54
68
68
97
97
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
For SI: l mil = 0.0254 mm, l inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
142
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FLOORS
TABLE R505.3.4(4)
CLIP ANGLE BEARING ST1FFENERS
(70 psf equivalent snow load)
JOIST DESIGNATION
MINIMUM THICKNESS (mils) OF 2 INCH x 2 INCH CLIP ANGLE
Top floor
Bottom floor in 2 story
Middle floor in 3 story
Bottom floor in 3 story
Joist spacing (inches)
Joist spacing (inches)
Joist spacing (inches)
12
16
19.2
24
12
16
19.2
24
12
16
19.2
24
800S162-33
68
68
68
68
97
97
97
97
—
—
—
—
800S 162-43
97
97
97
97
97
97
97
800S162-54
97
97
97
97
97
800S 162-68
68
68
68
97
97
97
97
—
—
—
—
—
800S 162-97
43
43
43
43
43
54
68
97
97
97
—
—
1000S 162-43
97
97
97
97
—
—
1000S 162-54
—
97
97
97
1000S 162-68
97
97
—
1000S 162-97
68
68
68
68
97
97
1200S 162-43
97
97
97
97
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
1200S 162-54
1200S 162-68
1200S162-97
97
97
97
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
C-SHAPE
INSIDE TRACK
4 NO. 8 SCREWS
THROUGH WEB OR
FLANGES AT EACH
SIDE OF SPLICE
TRACK
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R505.3.7
TRACK SPLICE
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
143
FLOORS
R505.3.8 Framing of floor openings. Openings in floors
shall be framed with header and trimmer joists. Header
joist spans shall not exceed 6 feet (1829 mm) or 8 feet
(2438 mm) in length in accordance with Figure
R505.3.8(l) or R505.3.8(2), respectively. Header and
trimmer joists shall be fabricated from joist and track
members, having a minimum size and thickness at least
equivalent to the adjacent floor joists and shall be installed
in accordance with Figures R505.3.8(l), R505.3.8(2),
R505.3.8(3), and R505.3.8(4). Each header joist shall be
connected to trimmer joists with four 2 inch by 2 inch (51
mm by 51 mm) clip angles. Each clip angle shall be fas-
tened to both the header and trimmer joists with four No. 8
screws, evenly spaced, through each leg of the clip angle.
The clip angles shall have a thickness not less than that of
the floor joist. Each track section for a built-up header or
trimmer joist shall extend the full length of the joist (con-
tinuous).
SECTION R506
CONCRETE FLOORS (ON GROUND)
R506.1 General. Concrete slab-on-ground floors shall be
designed and constructed in accordance with the provisions
of this section or ACI 332. Floors shall be a minimum 3.5
inches (89 mm) thick (for expansive soils, see Section
R403.1.8). The specified compressive strength of concrete
shall be as set forth in Section R402.2.
R506.2 Site preparation. The area within the foundation
walls shall have all vegetation, top soil and foreign material
removed.
R506.2. 1 Fill. Fill material shall be free of vegetation and
foreign material. The fill shall be compacted to assure uni-
form support of the slab, and except where approved, the
fill depths shall not exceed 24 inches (610 mm) for clean
sand or gravel and 8 inches (203 mm) for earth.
R506.2.2 Base. A 4-inch-thick (102 mm) base course con-
sisting of clean graded sand, gravel, crushed stone or
crushed blast-furnace slag passing a 2-inch (51 mm) sieve
shall be placed on the prepared subgrade when the slab is
below grade.
Exception: A base course is not required when the con-
crete slab is installed on well-drained or sand-gravel
mixture soils classified as Group I according to the
United Soil Classification System in accordance with
Table R405.1.
R506.2.3 Vapor retarder. A 6-mil (0.006 inch; 1 52 urn)
polyethylene or approved vapor retarder with joints lapped
not less than 6 inches (152 mm) shall be placed between
the concrete floor slab and the base course or the prepared
subgrade where no base course exists.
Exception: The vapor retarder may be omitted:
1. From garages, utility buildings and other unheated
accessory structures.
2. For unheated storage rooms having an area of less
than 70 square feet (6.5 m 2 ) and carports.
3. From driveways, walks, patios and other flatwork
not likely to be enclosed and heated at a later date.
4. Where approved by the building official, based on
local site conditions.
JOIST
CLIPANGLE
JOIST
TRIMMER JOIST (TYP.)
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R505.3.8{1)
COLD-FORMED STEEL FLOOR CONSTRUCTION: 6-FOOT FLOOR OPENING
144
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FLOORS
JOIST
CLIP ANGLE
JOIST
TRIMMER JOIST (TYP.)
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R505.3.8(2)
COLD-FORMED STEEL FLOOR CONSTRUCTION— 8-FOOT FLOOR OPENING
(r^r
NO. 8 SCREWS AT 24 IN. O.C
TOP AND BOTTOM (TYP.)
MINIMUM 2 IN. » 2 IN. CLIPANGLE
WITH 4 NO. 8 SCREWS
THROUGH EACH LEG, BOTH
SIDES OF CONNECTION
HEADER JOIST-
C-SHAPE INSIDE A TRACK
4 NO. 8 SCREWS THROUGH EACH LEG
OF CLIPANGLE (ONE SIDE OF
CONNECTION) MINIMUM LENGTH EQUALS
JOIST WEB DEPTH MINUS 7, IN.
.TRIMMER JOIST_
C-SHAPE INSIDE
ATRACK(TYP)
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R505.3.8(3)
COLD-FORMED STEEL FLOOR CONSTRUCTION: FLOOR HEADER TO TRIMMER CONNECTION— 6-FOOT OPENING
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
145
FLOORS
R506.2.4 Reinforcement support. Where provided in
slabs on ground, reinforcement shall be supported to
remain in place from the center to upper one third of the
slab for the duration of the concrete placement.
■ SECTION R507
DECKS
R507.1 Decks. Where supported by attachment to an exterior
wall, decks shall be positively anchored to the primary struc-
ture and designed for both vertical and lateral loads. Such
attachment shall not be accomplished by the use of toenails or
nails subject to withdrawal. Where positive connection to the
primary building structure cannot be verified during inspec-
tion, decks shall be self-supporting. For decks with cantile-
vered framing members, connections to exterior walls or
other framing members, shall be designed and constructed to
resist uplift resulting from the full live load specified in Table
R301 .5 acting on the cantilevered portion of the deck.
R507.2 Deck ledger connection to band joist. For decks
supporting a total design load of 50 pounds per square foot
(2394 Pa) [40 pounds per square foot (1915 Pa) live load plus
10 pounds per square foot (479 Pa) dead load], the connection
between a deck ledger of pressure-preservative-treated
Southern Pine, incised pressure-preservative-treated Hem-Fir
or approved decay-resistant species, and a 2-inch (51 mm)
nominal lumber band joist bearing on a sill plate or wall plate
shall be constructed with 7 2 -inch (12.7 mm) lag screws or
bolts with washers in accordance with Table R507.2. Lag
screws, bolts and washers shall be hot-dipped galvanized or
stainless steel.
R507.2.1 Placement of lag screws or bolts in deck led-
gers and band joists. The lag screws or bolts in deck led-
gers and band joists shall be placed in accordance with
Table R507.2.1 and Figures R507.2.1(l) and R507.2.1(2).
R507.2.2 Alternate deck ledger connections. Deck led-
ger connections not conforming to Table R507.2 shall be
designed in accordance with accepted engineering prac-
tice. Girders supporting deck joists shall not be supported
on deck ledgers or band joists. Deck ledgers shall not be
supported on stone or masonry veneer.
R507.2.3 Deck lateral load connection. The lateral load
connection required by Section R507.1 shall be permitted
to be in accordance with Figure R507.2.3. Where the lat-
eral load connection is provided in accordance with Figure
507.2.3, hold-down tension devices shall be installed in
not less than two locations per deck, and each device shall
have an allowable stress design capacity of not less than
1500 pounds (6672 N).
NO. 8 SCREWS AT 24 IN. O.C.
TOP AND BOTTOM (TYP.)
MINIMUM 2 IN. x 2 IN. CLIP ANGLE
WITH 4 NO. 8 SCREWS
THROUGH EACH LEG, BOTH
SIDES OF CONNECTION
HEADER JOIST,
2-C-SHAPE AND A TRACK
4-NO. 8 SCREWS THROUGH EACH LEG
OF CLIPANGLE (ONE SIDE OF
CONNECTION) MINIMUM LENGTH EQUALS
JOIST WEB DEPTH MINUS \ IN.
TRIMMER JOIST, -
2-C-SHAPES AND A TRACK
2-NO. 8 SCREWS THROUGH
WEBS AT 24 IN. ON CENTER
(TYP.)
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R505.3.8(4)
COLD-FORMED STEEL FLOOR CONSTRUCTION: FLOOR HEADER TO TRIMMER CONNECTION— 8-FOOT OPENING
146
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FLOORS
TABLE R507.2
FASTENER SPACING FOR A SOUTHERN PINE OR HEM-FIR DECK LEDGER AND
A 2-INCH-NOWNNAL SOLID-SAWN SPRUCE-PINE-FIR BAND JOIST'-'' 9
(Deck iive load = 40 psf, deck dead load = 10 psf)
JOIST SPAN
6' and less
6Y'to8'
8Y'to10'
10'l"to12'
12'l"to14'
14'l"to16'
16'l"to18'
Connection details
On-center spacing of fasteners* e
7 2 inch diameter lag screw with l5 /, 2 inch
maximum sheathing"
30
23
18
15
13
11
10
'/, inch diameter bolt with l5 /, 2 inch maximum
sheathing
36
36
34
29
24
21
19
V, inch diameter bolt with 15 / 17 inch maximum
sheathing and 7 2 inch stacked washers 11, ''
36
36
29
24
21
18
16
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm. 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. The tip of the lag screw shall fully extend beyond the inside face of the band joist.
b. The maximum gap between the face of the ledger board and face of the wall sheathing shall be '/, inch.
c. Ledgers shall be flashed to prevent water from contacting the house band joist.
d. Lag screws and bolts shall be staggered in accordance with Section R507.2.1.
e. Deck ledger shall be minimum 2x8 pressure-preservative-treated No. 2 grade lumber, or other approved materials as established by standard engineering
practice.
f. When solid-sawn pressure-preservative-treated deck ledgers are attached to a minimum 1 -inch-thick engineered wood product (structural composite lumber,
laminated veneer lumber or wood structural panel band joist), the ledger attachment shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice.
g. A minimum 1 x 9'/ 2 Douglas Fir laminated veneer lumber rimboard shall be permitted in lieu of the 2-inch nominal band joist.
h. Wood structural panel sheathing, gypsum board sheathing or foam sheathing not exceeding 1 inch in thickness shall be permitted. The maximum distance
between the face of the ledger board and the face of the band joist shall be 1 inch.
TABLE 507.2.1
PLACEMENT OF LAG SCREWS AND BOLTS IN DECK LEDGERS AND BAND JOISTS
MINIMUM END AND EDGE DISTANCES AND SPACING BETWEEN ROWS
TOP EDGE
BOTTOM EDGE
ENDS
ROW SPACING
Ledger' 1
2 inches' 1
V 4 inch
2 inches 6
l 5 / 8 inches' 1
Band Joist c
3 / 4 inch
2 inches
2 inches b
1 % inches"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Lag screws or bolts shall be staggered from the top to the bottom along the horizontal run of the deck ledger in accordance with Figure R507.2. 1(1).
b. Maximum 5 inches.
c. For engineered rim joists, the manufacturer's recommendations shall govern.
d. The minimum distance from bottom row of lag screws or bolts to the top edge of the ledger shall be in accordance with Figure R507.2. 1(1).
5" MAX
2" MIN
STAGGER FASTENERS
IN 2 ROWS
5.5" MIN. FOR 2X8*
6.5" MIN. FOR 2X10
7.5" MIN. FOR 2X12
3/4" MIN.
'DISTANCE SHALL BE PERMITTED TO
BE REDUCED TO 4.5" IF LAG SCREWS
ARE USED OR BOLT SPACING IS
REDUCED TO THAT OF LAG SCREWS
TO ATTACH 2X8 LEDGERS TO 2 X 8
BAND JOISTS.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R507.2.1(1)
PLACEMENT OF LAG SCREWS AND BOLTS IN LEDGERS
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
147
FLOORS
R507.3 Wood/plastic composites. Wood/plastic composites
used in exterior deck boards, stair treads, handrails and
guardrail systems shall bear a label indicating the required
performance levels and demonstrating compliance with the
provisions of ASTM D 7032.
R507.3.1 Installation of wood/plastic composites.
Wood/plastic composites shall be installed in accordance
with the manufacturer's instructions.
EXTERIOR SHEATHING
EXISTING STUD WALL m
EXISTING 2x BAND JOIST
OR ENGINEERED RIM BOARD
FLOOR FRAMING
EXISTING
FOUNDATION WALL
. >:_** ja **. *
DECK JOIST
LAG SCREWS OR BOLTS
JOIST HANGER
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R507.2.1(2)
PLACEMENT OF LAG SCREWS AND BOLTS IN BAND JOISTS
HOLD-DOWN OR SIMILAR
TENSION DEVICE
FLOOR SHEATHING NAILING AT-.
6 IN. MAXIMUM ON CENTER TO
JOIST WITH HOLD-DOWN f
FLOOR JOIST
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE 507.2.3
DECK ATTACHMENT FOR LATERAL LOADS
148
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 6
WAI 9 CHNQTRISCTSHM
SECTfON R601
GENERAL
R601.1 Application. The provisions of this chapter shall
control the design and construction of all walls and partitions
for all buildings.
R601.2 Requirements. Wall construction shall be capable of
accommodating all loads imposed according to Section R301
and of transmitting the resulting loads to the supporting struc-
tural elements.
R601.2.1 Compressible floor-covering materials. Com-
pressible floor-covering materials that compress more than
V 32 inch (0.8 mm) when subjected to 50 pounds (23 kg)
applied over 1 inch square (645 mm) of material and are
greater than V s inch (3 mm) in thickness in the uncom-
pressed state shall not extend beneath walls, partitions or
columns, which are fastened to the floor.
SECTION R602
WOOD WALL FRAMING
R602.1 Identification. Load-bearing dimension lumber for
studs, plates and headers shall be identified by a grade mark
of a lumber grading or inspection agency that has been
approved by an accreditation body that complies with DOC
PS 20. In lieu of a grade mark, a certification of inspection
issued by a lumber grading or inspection agency meeting the
requirements of this section shall be accepted.
R602.1.1 End-jointed lumber. Approved end-jointed
lumber identified by a grade mark conforming to Section
R602.1 may be used interchangeably with solid-sawn
members of the same species and grade. End-jointed lum-
ber used in an assembly required elsewhere in this code to
have a fire-resistance rating shall have the designation
"Heat Resistant Adhesive" or "HRA" included in its grade
mark.
R602.1.2 Structural glued laminated timbers. Glued
laminated timbers shall be manufactured and identified as
required in ANS1/AITC A 190.1 and ASTM D 3737.
R602.1.3 Structural log members. Stress grading of
structural log members of nonrectangular shape, as typi-
cally used in log buildings, shall be in accordance with
ASTM D 3957. Such structural log members shall be iden-
tified by the grade mark of an approved lumber grading or
inspection agency. In lieu of a grade mark on the material,
a certificate of inspection as to species and grade, issued
by a lumber-grading or inspection agency meeting the
requirements of this section, shall be permitted to be
accepted.
R602.1.4 Structural composite lumber. Structural
capacities for structural composite lumber shall be estab-
lished and monitored in accordance with ASTM D 5456.
R602.2 Grade. Studs shall be a minimum No. 3, standard or
stud grade lumber.
Exception: Bearing studs not supporting floors and non-
bearing studs may be utility grade lumber, provided the
studs are spaced in accordance with Table R602.3(5).
R602.3 Design and construction. Exterior walls of wood-
frame construction shall be designed and constructed in
accordance with the provisions of this chapter and Figures
R602.3(l) and R602.3(2) or in accordance with AF&PA's
NDS. Components of exterior walls shall be fastened in
accordance with Tables R602.3(l) through R602.3(4). Wall
sheathing shall be fastened directly to framing members and,
when placed on the exterior side of an exterior wall, shall be
capable of resisting the wind pressures listed in Table
R301.2(2) adjusted for height and exposure using Table
R30 1.2(3). Wood structural panel sheathing used for exterior
walls shall conform to DOC PS 1, DOC PS 2 or, when manu-
factured in Canada, CSA 0437 or CSA 0325. All panels
shall be identified for grade, bond classification, and Perfor-
mance Category by a grade mark or certificate of inspection
issued by an approved agency and shall conform to the
requirements of Table R602.3(3). Wall sheathing used only
for exterior wall covering purposes shall comply with Section
R703.
Studs shall be continuous from support at the sole plate to
a support at the top plate to resist loads perpendicular to the
wall. The support shall be a foundation or floor, ceiling or
roof diaphragm or shall be designed in accordance with
accepted engineering practice.
Exception: Jack studs, trimmer studs and cripple studs at
openings in walls that comply with Tables R502.5(l) and
R502.5(2).
R602.3.1 Stud size, height and spacing. The size, height
and spacing of studs shall be in accordance with Table
R602.3.(5).
Exceptions:
1 . Utility grade studs shall not be spaced more than
16 inches (406 mm) on center, shall not support
more than a roof and ceiling, and shall not exceed
8 feet (2438 mm) in height for exterior walls and
load-bearing walls or 10 feet (3048 mm) for inte-
rior nonload-bearing walls.
2. Studs more than 10 feet (3048 mm) in height
which are in accordance with Table R602.3.1.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
149
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602.3(1)
FASTENER SCHEDULE FOR STRUCTURAL MEMBERS
ITEM
DESCRIPTION OF BUILDING ELEMENTS
NUMBER AND TYPE OF
FASTENER 3 ' bc
SPACING OF FASTENERS
Roof
1
Blocking between joists or rafters to top plate, toe nail
3-8d(2'/ 2 "x 0.113")
—
2
Ceiling joists to plate, toe nail
3-8d (27," x 0.113")
—
3
Ceiling joists not attached to parallel rafter, laps over parti-
tions, face nail
3-10d
—
4
Collar tie to rafter, face nail or 1 7 4 " x 20 gage ridge strap
3-10d(3"x0.128")
—
5
Rafter or roof truss to plate, toe nail
3- 1 6d box nails (3 7/ x 0.1 35")
or 3-10d common nails
(3" x 0.148")
2 toe nails on one side and 1 toe nail on
opposite side of each rafter or truss 1
6
Roof rafters to ridge, valley or hip rafters: toe nail face nail
4-16d(3'/ 2 "x0.135")
3-16d(37 2 "x 0.135")
—
Wall
7
Built-up studs-face nail
10d(3"x0.128")
24"o.c.
8
Abutting studs at intersecting wall corners, face nail
16d(3'/2"x0.135")
12"o.c.
9
Built-up header, two pieces with 7/ spacer
16d (37/ x 0.135")
16" o.c. along each edge
10
Continued header, two pieces
16d (37/ x 0.135")
16" o.c. along each edge
11
Continuous header to stud, toe nail
4-8d(27/x0.113")
—
12
Double studs, face nail
10d(3"x0.128")
24" o.c.
13
Double top plates, face nail
10d(3"x0.128")
24" o.c.
14
Double top plates, minimum 24-inch offset of end joints,
face nail in lapped area
8-1 6d (37/ x 0.135")
—
15
Sole plate to joist or blocking, face nail
16d (37/ x 0.135")
16" o.c.
16
Sole plate to joist or blocking at braced wall panels
3-16d(37/x 0.135")
16" o.c.
17
Stud to sole plate, toe nail
3-8d(27/x 0.113")
or
2-16d(37/x 0.135")
18
Top or sole plate to stud, end nail
2-16d(37/x 0.135")
—
19
Top plates, laps at corners and intersections, face nail
2-10d(3"x0.128")
—
20
1 " brace to each stud and plate, face nail
2-8d(27/x0.113")
2 staples l 3 / 4 "
—
21
1 " x 6" sheathing to each bearing, face nail
2-8d (27/ x 0.113")
2 staples 17/
—
22
1" x 8 " sheathing to each bearing, face nail
2-8d (27, "x 0.113")
3 staples l7 4 "
—
23
Wider than 1 " x 8" sheathing to each bearing, face nail
3-8d(27/x0.113")
4 staples l 3 //
—
Floor
24
Joist to sill or girder, toe nail
3-8d(27/x 0.113")
—
25
Rim joist to top plate, toe nail (roof applications also)
8d (27/ x 0.113")
6" o.c.
26
Rim joist or blocking to sill plate, toe nail
8d(2 1 /2"x0.113")
6" o.c.
27
1 " x 6" subfloor or less to each joist, face nail
2-8d(27/x0.113")
2 staples l 3 //
—
28
2 " subfloor to joist or girder, blind and face nail
2-16d(37/x 0.135")
—
29
2 " planks (plank & beam - floor & roof)
2-16d (37/ x 0.135")
at each bearing
30
Built-up girders and beams, 2-inch lumber layers
10d(3"x0.128")
Nail each layer as follows: 32" o.c. at
top and bottom and staggered.
Two nails at ends and at each splice.
31
Ledger strip supporting joists or rafters
3-16d (37/ x 0.135")
At each joist or rafter
(continued)
150
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602.3(1)— continued
FASTENER SCHEDULE FOR STRUCTURAL MEMBERS
ITEM
DESCRIPTION OF BUILDING MATERIALS
DESCRIPTION OF FASTENER" c > e
SPACING OF FASTENERS
Edges
(inches) 1
Intermediate supports" 1 '
(inches)
Wood structural panels, subfloor, roof and interior wall sheathing to framing and particleboard wall sheathing to framing
32
3, „ _ 1, „
'8 '1
6d common (2" x 0.1 13") nail (subfloor wall}'
8d common (27 2 " x 0.131") nail (roof) f
6
12 s
33
%"-l"
8d common nail (27 2 " x 0. 1 3 1 ")
6
12 E
34
1'V'-17 4 "
lOd common (3" x 0.148") nail or
8d (27 2 " x 0. 1 3 1 ") deformed nail
6
12
Other wall sheathing"
35
7," structural cellulosic
fiberboard sheathing
7 2 " galvanized roofing nail, 7 / l6 " crown or 1 " crown
staple 16 ga., l7 4 "long
3
6
36
25 / 31 " structural cellulosic
fiberboard sheathing
1 %" galvanized roofing nail, 7 / ]6 " crown or 1 " crown
staple 16 ga., l7 2 "long
3
6
37
7 2 " gypsum sheathing* 1
17 2 " galvanized roofing nail; staple galvanized,
1 7 2 " long; 1 7 4 screws, Type W or S
7
7
38
% " gypsum sheathing d
l7 4 " galvanized roofing nail; staple galvanized,
17 8 " long; l 5 / 8 " screws, Type W or S
7
7
Wood structural panels, combination subfloor underlayment to framing
39
7 4 " and less
6d deformed (2" x 0.120") nail or
8d common (27 2 " x 0.131 ") nail
6
12
40
V-i"
8d common (27 2 " x 0.131") nail or
8d deformed (27 2 " x 0.120") nail
6
12
41
17 S "-17 4 "
lOd common (3" x 0.148") nail or
8d deformed (27," x 0.120") nail
6
12
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s; 1 Ksi = 6.895 MPa.
a. All nails are smooth-common, box or deformed shanks except where otherwise stated. Nails used for framing and sheathing connections shall have minimum
average bending yield strengths as shown: 80 ksi for shank diameter of 0.192 inch (20d common nail), 90 ksi for shank diameters larger than 142 inch but
not larger than 0.177 inch, and 100 ksi for shank diameters of 0.142 inch or less.
b. Staples are 16 gage wire and have a minimum 7 / l6 -inch on diameter crown width.
c. Nails shall be spaced at not more than 6 inches on center at all supports where spans are 48 inches or greater.
d. Four-foot by 8-foot or 4-foot by 9-foot panels shall be applied vertically.
e. Spacing of fasteners not included in this table shall be based on Table R602.3(2).
f. For regions having basic wind speed of 1 10 mph or greater, 8d deformed (27," x 0.120) nails shall be used for attaching plywood and wood structural panel
roof sheathing to framing within minimum 48-inch distance from gable end walls, if mean roof height is more than 25 feet, up to 35 feet maximum.
g. For regions having basic wind speed of 100 mph or less, nails for attaching wood structural panel roof sheathing to gable end wall framing shall be spaced 6
inches on center. When basic wind speed is greater than 1 00 mph, nails for attaching panel roof sheathing to intermediate supports shall be spaced 6 inches on
center for minimum 48-inch distance from ridges, eaves and gable end walls; and 4 inches on center to gable end wall framing.
h. Gypsum sheathing shall conform to ASTM C 1396 and shall be installed in accordance with GA 253. Fiberboard sheathing shall conform to ASTM C 208.
i. Spacing of fasteners on floor sheathing panel edges applies to panel edges supported by framing members and required blocking and at all floor perimeters
only. Spacing of fasteners on roof sheathing panel edges applies to panel edges supported by framing members and required blocking. Blocking of roof or
floor sheathing panel edges perpendicular to the framing members need not be provided except as required by other provisions of this code. Floor perimeter
shall be supported by framing members or solid blocking,
j. Where a rafter is fastened to an adjacent parallel ceiling joist in accordance with this schedule, provide two toe nails on one side of the rafter and toe nails from
the ceiling joist to top plate in accordance with this schedule. The toe nail on the opposite side of the rafter shall not be required.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
151
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602.3(2)
ALTERNATE ATTACHMENTS TO TABLE R602.3(1)
NOMINAL MATERIAL THICKNESS
(inches)
DESCRIPTION 3 "OF FASTENER AND LENGTH
(inches)
SPACING' OF FASTENERS
Edges
(inches)
Intermediate supports
(inches)
Wood structural panels subfloor, roof 9 and wall sheathing to framing and particleboard wall sheathing to framing
Up to 7,
Staple 15 ga. l 3 / 4
4
8
0.097 - 0.099 Nail 2'/ 4
3
6
Staple 16 ga. l 3 / 4
3
6
19 / 32 and 5 / 8
0.113 Nail 2
3
6
Staple 15 and 16 ga. 2
4
8
0.097 - 0.099 Nail 2'/ 4
4
8
%and 3 / 4
Staple 14 ga. 2
4
8
Staple 15 ga. 1%
3
6
0.097 - 0.099 Nail 2'/ 4
4
8
Staple 16 ga. 2
4
8
1
Staple 14 ga. 2'/ 4
4
8
0.1 13 Nail 27 4
3
6
Staple 15 ga. 27 4
4
8
0.097 -0.099 Nail 27,
4
8
NOMINAL MATERIAL THICKNESS
(inches)
DESCRIPTION ab OF FASTENER AND LENGTH
(inches)
SPACING" OF FASTENERS
Edges
(inches)
Body of panel"
(inches)
Floor underlayment; plywood-hardboard-particleboard'
Plywood
'/ 4 and'7, 6
l7 4 ring or screw shank nail-minimum
127 2 ga. (0.099") shank diameter
3
6
Staple 18 ga„ 7 / 8 , 3 / 16 crown width
2
5
%> 3 4- '%2. and 7,
1 7 4 ring or screw shank nail-minimum
127,ga. (0.099") shank diameter
6
8 e
19 / 32 , 5 / 8 ,%andV 4
1 7, ring or screw shank nail-minimum
127 2 ga. (0.099") shank diameter
6
8
Staple 16 ga. 17,
6
8
Hardboard'
0.200
1 7 2 long ring-grooved underlayment nail
6
6
4d cement-coated sinker nail
6
6
Staple 18 ga., 7 / 8 long (plastic coated)
3
6
Particleboard
%
4d ring-grooved underlayment nail
3
6
Staple 18 ga., 7 / 8 long, 3 / l6 crown
3
6
\
6d ring-grooved underlayment nail
6
10
Staple 16 ga., 1 7 s long, V g crown
3
6
V.
6d ring-grooved underlayment nail
6
10
Staple 16 ga., l 5 / s long, V s crown
3
6
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Nail is a general description and may be T-head, modified round head or round head.
b. Staples shall have a minimum crown width of 7 / 16 -inch on diameter except as noted.
c. Nails or staples shall be spaced at not more than 6 inches on center at all supports where spans are 48 inches or greater. Nails or staples shall be spaced at not
more than 1 2 inches on center at intermediate supports for floors.
d. Fasteners shall be placed in a grid pattern throughout the body of the panel.
e. For 5-ply panels, intermediate nails shall be spaced not more than 12 inches on center each way.
f. Hardboard underlayment shall conform to CP A/ANSI Al 35.4
g. Specified alternate attachments for roof sheathing shall be permitted for windspeeds less than 100 mph. Fasteners attaching wood structural panel roof
sheathing to gable end wall framing shall be installed using the spacing listed for panel edges.
152
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602.3(3)
REQUIREMENTS FOR WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL WALL SHEATHING USED TO RESIST WIND PRESSURES" bc
MINIMUM NAIL
MINIMUM WOOD
STRUCTURAL
PANEL SPAN
RATING
MINIMUM
NOMINAL
PANEL
THICKNESS
(inches)
MAXIMUM WALL
STUD SPACING
(inches)
PANEL NAIL SPACING
MAXIMUM WIND SPEED
(mph)
Size
Penetration
(inches)
Edges
(inches o.c.)
Field
(inches o.c.)
Wind exposure category
B
C
D
6d Common
(2.0" x 0.1 13")
1.5
24/0
%
16
6
12
110
90
85
8d Common
(2.5" x 0.131")
1.75
24/16
\
16
6
12
130
110
105
24
6
12
110
90
85
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. Panel strength axis parallel or perpendicular to supports. Three-ply plywood sheathing with studs spaced more than 16 inches on center shall be applied with
panel strength axis perpendicular to supports.
b. Table is based on wind pressures acting toward and away from building surfaces per Section R301 .2. Lateral bracing requirements shall be in accordance with
Section R602.10.
c. Wood structural panels with span ratings of WalM6 or Wall-24 shall be permitted as an alternate to panels with a 24/0 span rating. Plywood siding rated 16
o.c. or 24 o.c. shall be permitted as an alternate to panels with a 24/16 span rating. Wall-16 and Plywood siding 16 o.c. shall be used with studs spaced a
maximum of 16 inches on center.
TABLE R602.3(4)
ALLOWABLE SPANS FOR PARTICLEBOARD WALL SHEATHING 3
THICKNESS
(inch)
GRADE
STUD SPACING
(inches)
When siding is nailed to studs
When siding is nailed to sheathing
%
M-l Exterior glue
16
—
'4
M-2 Exterior glue
16
16
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Wall sheathing not exposed to the weather. If the panels are applied horizontally, the end joints of the panel shall be offset so that four panels corners will not
meet. All panel edges must be supported. Leave a '/ l6 -inch gap between panels and nail no closer than 3 / s inch from panel edges.
TABLE R602.3(5)
SIZE, HEIGHT AND SPACING OF WOOD STUDS"
STUD SIZE
(inches)
BEARING WALLS
NONBEARING WALLS
Laterally
unsupported
stud height 9
(feet)
Maximum spacing
when supporting a
roof-ceiling
assembly or a
habitable attic
assembly, only
(inches)
Maximum spacing
when supporting one
floor, plus a roof-
ceiling assembly or a
habitable attic
assembly (inches)
Maximum spacing
when supporting two
floors, plus a roof-
ceiling assembly or a
habitable attic
assembly (inches)
Maximum spacing
when supporting
one floor height"
(feet)
Laterally
unsupported
stud height*
(feet)
Maximum
spacing
(inches)
A
A.
'
2x3"
—
—
—
—
—
10
16
2x4
10
24 c
16 c
—
24
14
24
3x4
10
24
24
16
24
14
24
2x5
10
24
24
—
24
16
24
2x6
10
24
24
16
24
20
24
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.093 m 2 .
a. Listed heights are distances between points of lateral support placed perpendicular to the plane of the wall. Increases in unsupported height are permitted
where justified by analysis.
b. Shall not be used in exterior walls.
c. A habitable attic assembly supported by 2 x 4 studs is limited to a roof span of 32 feet. Where the roof span exceeds 32 feet, the wall studs shall be increased
to 2 x 6 or the studs shall be designed in accordance with accepted engineering practice.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
153
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TOP PLATE
BOTTOM PLATE
TOP PLATE
X
N.
BAND JOIST
OR BLOCKING .
SILL PLATE
>fc
'//AWV/7
RAFTERS AND CEILING
JOISTS OR APPROVED
ROOF TRUSS
SECOND STORY
FLOOR JOIST-
SEE DRILLING AND
NOTCHING PROVISIONS
SECTION R502.8.
JOIST IS PERMITTED TO
BE CUT OR NOTCHED
BETWEEN THESE LIMITS
■ SPAN
O
"BAND JOIST OR
BLOCKING
BOTTOM PLATE
FOR BLOCKING AND
BRIDGING—SEE
SECTION R502.7
BEARING
WALL
, LAP JOIST 3 IN. MIN.
OR SPLICE— SEE
SECTION R502.6.1
JOIST
CRAWL SPACE OR
BASEMENT
FOUNDATION
'/// \\V '//! AW '/// x\\V/// \\v
WA
'SUBFLOOR
1 TOP PLATE-
SEE DRILLING AND
NOTCHING PROVISIONS
SECTION R602.6.1
' WALL STUD-
SEE DRILLING AND
NOTCHING PROVISIONS
SECTION R602.6
, JOIST NAILED TO
STUD
1 IN. x 4 INI. RIBBON
CUT INTO STUD-
SEE SECTION R502J
SEE SECTION R602.8
FOR FIRE BLOCKING
W^7/
WW///
PLATFORM FRAMING
INTERMEDIATE
BEARING WALL
MONOLITHIC
SLAB-ON-GRADE
FOUNDATION
BALLOON FRAMING
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R602.3(1)
TYPICAL WALL, FLOOR AND ROOF FRAMING
154
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
SINGLE OR DOUBLE
TOP PLATE
FIREBLOCK AROUND
PIPE
WALL STUDS-
SEE SECTION R602.3
BOTTOM,
PLATE
SUBFLOOR'
SILL PLATE'
¥
< I
Ud
CUT PLATE TIED WITH
,16 GAGE STEEL STRAP.
SEE SECTION R602.6.1.
/STAGGER JOINTS 24 IN. OR
USE SPLICE PLATES-
SEE SECTION R602.3.2
JACK STUDS OR
TRIMMERS
Q
H M «/
' HEADER-
SEE TABLES R502.5(1)
AND R502.5(2)
SOLID BLOCKING
FLOOR JOISTS
FOUNDATION
CRIPPLE WALL-
SEE SECTION R602.9
FOUNDATION
WALL STUDS
1 IN. BY 4 IN.
DIAGONAL BRACE
LET INTO STUDS
ANCHOR BOLTS EMBEDDED IN
FOUNDATION 6 FT. OC. MAX.
CORNER AND PARTITION POSTS
-4j
1
- ftih - -A
APPLY APPROVED SHEATHING OR BRACE
EXTERIOR WALLS WITH 1 IN. BY 4 IN. BRACES LET
INTO STUDS AND PLATES AND EXTENDING FROM
BOTTOM PLATE TO TOP PLATE, OR OTHER
APPROVED METAL STRAP DEVICES INSTALLED IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE MANUFACTURER'S
SPECIFICATIONS. SEE SECTION R602.10.
NOTE: ATHIRD STUD AND/OR PARTITION INTERSECTION
BACKING STUDS SHALL BE PERMITTED TO BE OMITTED
THROUGH THE USE OF WOOD BACKUP CLEATS, METAL
DRYWALL CLIPS OR OTHER APPROVED DEVICES THAT
WILL SERVE AS ADEQUATE BACKING FOR THE FACING
MATERIALS.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R602.3(2)
FRAMING DETAILS
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
155
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602.3.1
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LENGTH OF WOOD WALL STUDS EXPOSED TO WIND SPEEDS OF 100 MPH OR LESS
IN SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORIES A, B, C, D„, D, and D 2 b ' c
HEIGHT
(feet)
ON-CENTER SPACING (inches)
24
16
12
8
Supporting a roof only
>10
2x4
2x4
2x4
2x4
12
2x6
2x4
2x4
2x4
14
2x6
2x6
2x6
2x4
16
2x6
2x6
2x6
2x4
18
NA"
2x6
2x6
2x6
20
NA a
NA a
2x6
2x6
24
NA"
NA"
NA a
2x6
Supporting one floor and a roof
>10
2x6
2x4
2x4
2x4
12
2x6
2x6
2x6
2x4
14
2x6
2x6
2x6
2x6
16
NA"
2x6
2x6
2x6
18
NA a
2x6
2x6
2x6
20
NA"
NA a
2x6
2x6
24
NA'
NA a
NA"
2x6
Supporting two floors and a roof
> 10
2x6
2x6
2x4
2x4
12
2x6
2x6
2x6
2x6
14
2x6
2x6
2x6
2x6
16
NA a
NA a
2x6
2x6
18
NA-
NA a
2x6
2x6
20
NA"
NA"
NA"
2x6
22
NA a
NA a
NA"
NA a
24
NA a
NA a
NA a
NA a
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa
1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. Design required.
b. Applicability of this table assumes the following: Snow load not exceeding 25 psf,/ b not less than
tabular base design value by the repetitive use factor, and by the size factor for all species except
dimensions for floors and roofs not exceeding 6 feet, maximum span for floors and roof not exceeding
sheathing. Where the conditions are not within these parameters, design is required.
c. Utility, standard, stud and No. 3 grade lumber of any species are not permitted.
(continued)
1310 psi determined by multiplying the AF&PA NDS
southern pine, E not less than 1.6 x 10 6 psi, tributary
12 feet, eaves not over 2 feet in dimension and exterior
156
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE LENGTH OF WOOD WALL STUDS EXPOSED TO WIND SPEEDS OF 100 MPH OR LESS
IN SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORIES A, B, C, D , D, and D 2
1 ROOF LOAD
1 ROOF LOAD
1 FLOOR LOAD
1 ROOF LOAD
2 FLOOR LOADS
R602.3.2 Top plate. Wood stud walls shall be capped
with a double top plate installed to provide overlapping at
corners and intersections with bearing partitions. End
joints in top plates shall be offset at least 24 inches (610
mm). Joints in plates need not occur over studs. Plates
shall be not less than 2-inches (51 mm) nominal thickness
and have a width at least equal to the width of the studs.
Exception: A single top plate may be installed in stud
walls, provided the plate is adequately tied at joints,
corners and intersecting walls by a minimum 3-inch by
6-inch by a 0.036-inch-thick (76 mm by 152 mm by
0.914 mm) galvanized steel plate that is nailed to each
wall or segment of wall by six 8d nails on each side,
provided the rafters or joists are centered over the studs
with a tolerance of no more than 1 inch (25 mm). The
top plate may be omitted over lintels that are ade-
quately tied to adjacent wall sections with steel plates
or equivalent as previously described.
R602.3.3 Bearing studs. Where joists, trusses or rafters
are spaced more than 16 inches (406 mm) on center and
the bearing studs below are spaced 24 inches (610 mm) on
center, such members shall bear within 5 inches (127 mm)
of the studs beneath.
Exceptions:
1. The top plates are two 2-inch by 6-inch (38 mm
by 140 mm) or two 3-inch by 4-inch (64 mm by
89 mm) members.
2. A third top plate is installed.
3. Solid blocking equal in size to the studs is
installed to reinforce the double top plate.
R602.3.4 Bottom (sole) plate. Studs shall have full bear-
ing on a nominal 2-by (51 mm) or larger plate or sill hav-
ing a width at least equal to the width of the studs.
R602.3.5 Braced wall panel uplift load path. Braced
wall panels located at exterior walls that support roof raf-
-**
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
157
WALL CONSTRUCTION
ters or trusses (including stories below top story) shall
have the framing members connected in accordance with
one of the following:
1. Fastening in accordance with Table R602.3(l)
where:
1.1. The basic wind speed does not exceed 90
mph (40 m/s), the wind exposure category is
B, the roof pitch is 5:12 or greater, and the
roof span is 32 feet (9754 mm) or less, or
1.2. The net uplift value at the top of a wall does
not exceed 100 plf. The net uplift value shall
be determined in accordance with Section
R802. 1 1 and shall be permitted to be reduced
by 60 plf (86 N/mm) for each full wall
above.
2. Where the net uplift value at the top of a wall
exceeds 100 plf (146 N/mm), installing approved
uplift framing connectors to provide a continuous
load path from the top of the wall to the foundation
or to a point where the uplift force is 100 plf (146
N/mm) or less. The net uplift value shall be as
determined in Item 1 .2 above.
3. Wall sheathing and fasteners designed in accordance
with accepted engineering practice to resist com-
bined uplift and shear forces.
R602.4 Interior load-bearing walls. Interior load-bearing
walls shall be constructed, framed and fireblocked as speci-
fied for exterior walls.
R602.5 Interior nonbearing walls. Interior nonbearing
walls shall be permitted to be constructed with 2 inch by 3
inch (51 mm by 76 mm) studs spaced 24 inches (610 mm) on
center or, when not part of a braced wall line, 2 inch by 4
inch (51 mm by 102 mm) flat studs spaced at 16 inches (406
mm) on center. Interior nonbearing walls shall be capped
with at least a single top plate. Interior nonbearing walls shall
be fireblocked in accordance with Section R602.8.
R602.6 Drilling and notching of studs. Drilling and notch-
ing of studs shall be in accordance with the following:
1. Notching. Any stud in an exterior wall or bearing parti-
tion may be cut or notched to a depth not exceeding 25
percent of its width. Studs in nonbearing partitions may
be notched to a depth not to exceed 40 percent of a sin-
gle stud width.
2. Drilling. Any stud may be bored or drilled, provided
that the diameter of the resulting hole is no more than
60 percent of the stud width, the edge of the hole is no
more than V 8 inch (16 mm) to the edge of the stud, and
the hole is not located in the same section as a cut or
notch. Studs located in exterior walls or bearing parti-
tions drilled over 40 percent and up to 60 percent shall
also be doubled with no more than two successive dou-
bted studs bored. See Figures R602.6(l) and R602.6(2).
Exception: Use of approved stud shoes is permitted
when they are installed in accordance with the man-
ufacturer's recommendations.
R602.6.1 Drilling and notching of top plate. When pip-
ing or ductwork is placed in or partly in an exterior wall or
interior load-bearing wall, necessitating cutting, drilling or
notching of the top plate by more than 50 percent of its
width, a galvanized metal tie not less than 0.054 inch thick
(1.37 mm) (16 ga) and l'/ 2 inches (38 mm) wide shall be
fastened across and to the plate at each side of the opening
with not less than eight lOd (0.148 inch diameter) having a
minimum length of l7 2 inches (38 mm) at each side or
equivalent. The metal tie must extend a minimum of 6
inches past the opening. See Figure R602.6.1.
Exception: When the entire side of the wall with the
notch or cut is covered by wood structural panel sheath-
ing.
R602.7 Headers. For header spans see Tables R502.5(l),
R502.5(2)andR602.7.1.
R602.7.1 Single member headers. Single headers shall
be framed with a single flat 2Tnch-nominal (51 mm)
member or wall plate not less in width than the wall studs
on the top and bottom of the header in accordance with
Figures R602.7.1(l) and R602.7.K2).
R602.7.2 Wood structural panel box headers. Wood
structural panel box headers shall be constructed in accor-
dance with Figure R602.7.2 and Table R602.7.2.
R602.7.3 Nonbearing walls. Load-bearing headers are
not required in interior or exterior nonbearing walls. A sin-
gle flat 2-inch by 4-inch (51 mm by 102 mm) member
may be used as a header in interior or exterior nonbearing
walls for openings up to 8 feet (2438 mm) in width if the
vertical distance to the parallel nailing surface above is not
more than 24 inches (610 mm). For such nonbearing head-
ers, no cripples or blocking are required above the header.
R602.8 Fireblocking required. Fireblocking shall be pro-
vided in accordance with Section R302. 1 1 .
R602.9 Cripple walls. Foundation cripple walls shall be
framed of studs not smaller than the studding above. When
exceeding 4 feet (1219 mm) in height, such walls shall be
framed of studs having the size required for an additional
story.
Cripple walls with a stud height less than 14 inches (356
mm) shall be continuously sheathed on one side with wood
structural panels fastened to both the top and bottom plates in
accordance with Table R602.3(l), or the cripple walls shall
be constructed of solid blocking.
All cripple walls shall be supported on continuous founda-
tions.
R602.10 Wall bracing. Buildings shall be braced in accor-
dance with this section or, when applicable, Section R602.12.
Where a building, or portion thereof, does not comply with
one or more of the bracing requirements in this section, those
portions shall be designed and constructed in accordance with
Section R30 1.1.
158
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TOP PLATES
BORED HOLE MAX.
DIAMETER 40 PERCENT
OF STUD DEPTH
5 / 8 IN. MIN. TO EDGE
NOTCH MUST NOT EXCEED 25
PERCENT OF STUD DEPTH
BORED HOLES SHALL NOT BE
LOCATED IN THE SAME CROSS
SECTION OF CUT OR NOTCH IN
STUD
STUD
IN. MIN. TO EDGE
IF HOLE IS BETWEEN 40 PERCENT AND
60 PERCENT OF STUD DEPTH, THEN STUD
MUST BE DOUBLE AND NO MORE THAN TWO
SUCCESSIVE STUDS ARE DOUBLED AND SO
BORED
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
Note: Condition for exterior and bearing walls.
FIGURE R602.6(1)
NOTCHING AND BORED HOLE LIMITATIONS FOR EXTERIOR WALLS AND BEARING WALLS
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
159
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TOP PLATES
BORED HOLE MAX.
DIAMETER 60 PERCENT
OF STUD DEPTH
%IN. MIN. TO EDGE
NOTCH MUST NOT EXCEED
40 PERCENT OF STUD DEPTH
BORED HOLES SHALL NOT BE
LOCATED IN THE SAME CROSS
SECTION OF CUT OR NOTCH IN
STUD
% IN. MIN. TO EDGE
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R602.6(2)
NOTCHING AND BORED HOLE LIMITATIONS FOR INTERIOR NONBEARING WALLS
EXTERIOR OR BEARING WALL*
NOTCH GREATER THAN 50
PERCENT OF THE PLATE WIDTH
GAGE (0.054 IN.) AND 1.5 IN. WIDE
METAL TIE FASTENED ACROSS AND
TO THE PLATE AT EACH SIDE OF THE
NOTCH WITH 8-1 Od NAILS EACH SIDE
TOP PLATES
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R602.6.1
TOP PLATE FRAMING TO ACCOMMODATE PIPING
160
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602.7.1
SPANS FOR MINIMUM No.2 GRADE SINGLE HEADER 8 '
>, c, 1
SINGLE
HEADERS
SUPPORTING
SIZE
WOOD SPECIES
GROUND SNOW LOAD (psf)
<20"
30
50
Building Width (feet)"
20
28
36
20
28
36
20
28
36
Spruce-Pine-Fir
4-10
4-2
3-8
4-3
3-8
3-3
3-7
3-0
2-8
2x8
Hem-Fir
5-1
4-4
3-10
4-6
3-10
3-5
3-9
3-2
2-10
Douglas-Fir or Southern Pine
5-3
4-6
4-0
4-7
3-11
3-6
3-10
3-3
2-11
Spruce-Pine-Fir
6-2
5-3
4-8
5-5
4-8
4-2
4-6
3-11
3-1
Roof and ceiling
2x10
Hem-Fir
6-6
5-6
4-11
5-8
4-11
4-4
4-9
4-1
3-7
Douglas-Fir or Southern Pine
6-8
5-8
5-1
5-10
5-0
4-6
4-11
4-2
3-9
Spruce-Pine-Fir
7-6
6-5
5-9
6-7
5-8
4-5
5-4
3-11
3-1
2x12
Hem-Fir
7-10
6-9
6-0
6-11
5-11
5-3
5-9
4-8
3-8
Douglas-Fir or Southern Pine
8-1
6-11
6-2
7-2
6-1
5-5
5-11
5-1
4-6
Spruce-Pine-Fir
3-10
3-3
2-11
3-9
3-3
2-11
3-5
2-11
2-7
2x8
Hem-Fir
4-0
3-5
3-1
3-11
3-5
3-0
3-7
3-0
2-8
Roof, ceiling and
Douglas-Fir or Southern Pine
4-1
3-7
3-2
4-1
3-6
3-1
3-8
3-2
2-9
Spruce-Pine-Fir
4-11
4-2
3-8
4-10
4-1
3-6
4-4
3-7
2-10
one center-bearing
2x10
Hem-Fir
5-1
4-5
3-11
5-0
4-4
3-10
4-6
3-11
3-4
floor
Douglas-Fir or Southern Pine
5-3
4-6
4-1
5-2
4-5
4-0
4-8
4-0
3-7
Spruce-Pine-Fir
5-8
4-2
3-4
5-5
4-0
3-6
4-9
3-6
2-10
2x 12
Hem-Fir
5-11
4-11
3-11
5-10
4-9
4-2
5-5
4-2
3-4
Douglas-Fir or Southern Pine
6-1
5-3
4-8
6-0
5-2
4-10
5-7
4-10
4-3
Spruce-Pine-Fir
3-5
2-11
2-7
3-4
2-11
2-7
3-3
2-10
2-6
2x8
Hem-Fir
3-7
3-1
2-9
3-6
3-0
2-8
3-5
2-11
2-7
Roof, ceiling and
one clear span floor
Douglas-Fir or Southern Pine
3-8
3-2
2-10
3-7
3-1
2-9
3-6
3-0
2-9
2x10
Spruce-Pine-Fir
Hem-Fir
4-4
4-7
3-7
3-11
2-10
3-5
4-3
4-6
3-6
3-10
2-9
3-3
4-2
4-4
3-4
3-9
2-7
3-1
Douglas-Fir or Southern Pine
4-8
4-0
3-7
4-7
4-0
3-6
4-6
3-10
3-5
Spruce-Pine-Fir
4-11
3-7
2-10
4-9
3-6
2-9
4-6
3-4
2-7
2x12
Hem-Fir
5-6
4-3
3-5
5-6
4-2
3-3
5-4
3-11
3-1
Douglas-Fir or Southern Pine
5-8
4-11
4-4
5-7
4-10
4-3
5-6
4-8
4-2
For SI: I inch=25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Spans are given in feet and inches.
b. Table is based on a maximum roof-ceiling dead load of 15 psf.
c. The header is permitted to be supported by an approved framing anchor attached to the full-height wall stud and to the header in lieu of the required jack stud.
d. The 20 psf ground snow load condition shall apply only when the roof pitch is 9:12 or greater. In conditions where the ground snow load is 30 psf or less and
the roof pitch is less than 9:12, use the 30 psf ground snow load condition.
e. Building width is measured perpendicular to the ridge. For widths between those shown, spans are permitted to be interpolated.
f. The header shall bear on a minimum of one jack stud at each end.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
161
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TOP PLATE
CRIPPLE
JACK STUD
FIGURE R602.7.1(1)
SINGLE MEMBER HEADER IN EXTERIOR BEARING WALL
TOP PLATE
JACK STUD
FIGURE R602.7.1(2)
ALTERNATIVE SINGLE MEMBER HEADER WITHOUT CRIPPLE
162
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602.7.2
MAXIMUM SPANS FOR WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL BOX HEADERS"
HEADER CONSTRUCTION"
HEADER DEPTH
(inches)
HOUSE DEPTH (feet)
24
26
28
30
32
Wood structural panel-one side
9
15
4
5
4
5
3
4
3
3
3
Wood structural panel-both sides
9
15
7
8
5
8
5
7
4
7
3
6
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Spans are based on single story with clear-span trussed roof or two-story with floor and roof supported by interior-bearing walls.
b. See Figure R602.7.2 for construction details.
CRIPPLE
TOP PLATE 3
STRENGTH AXIS
HEADER DEPTH
STRENGTH AXIS
WOOD
STRUCTURAL
PANEL? 8
INSULATION AS
REQUIRED
9 IN. OR
15 IN.
SECTION
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
NOTES:
a. The top plate shall be continuous over header.
b. Jack studs shall be used for spans over 4 feet.
c. Cripple spacing shall be the same as for studs.
d. Wood structural panel faces shall be single pieces of l5 / 32 -inch-thick Exposure 1 (exterior glue) or thicker, installed on the interior or exterior or both sides of
the header.
e. Wood structural panel faces shall be nailed to framing and cripples with 8d common or galvanized box nails spaced 3 inches on center, staggering alternate
nails 7, inch. Galvanized nails shall be hot-dipped or tumbled.
FIGURE R602.7.2
TYPICAL WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL BOX HEADER CONSTRUCTION
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
163
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R602.10.1 Braced wall lines. For the purpose of deter-
mining the amount and location of bracing required in
each story level of a building, braced wall lines shall be
designated as straight lines in the building plan placed in
accordance with this section.
R602.10.1.1 Length of a braced wall line. The length
of a braced wall line shall be the distance between its
ends. The end of a braced wall line shall be the inter-
section with a perpendicular braced wall line, an
angled braced wall line as permitted in Section
R602. 10.1.4 or an exterior wall as shown in Figure
R602.10.1.1.
R602.10.1.2 Offsets along a braced wall line. All
exterior walls parallel to a braced wall line shall be off-
set not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) from the designated
braced wall line location as shown Figure R602. 10.1.1.
Interior walls used as bracing shall be offset not more
than 4 feet (1219 mm) from a braced wall line through
the interior of the building as shown in Figure
R602.10.1.1.
R602.10.1.3 Spacing of braced wall lines. The spac-
ing between parallel braced wall lines shall be in accor-
dance with Table R602. 10.1.3. Intermediate braced
BWL A
SPACING
-BETWEEM-
BWLA-B
BWL 5
SPACING
-BETWEEN-
BWL8-C
BWLC
I
4'MAX-
MAX
T
2
'MAX
TYPICAL BRACED WALL PLAN
01
BWL A
SPACING
-BETWEEN-
BWLA-B
BWLB
SPACING
-BETWEEN -
BWLE-C
BWL C
i~\
>D Q ,
0=0
T
3
4" MAX— *►
, NO BRACED WALL LINE; •
\ ROOF AND FLOOR BEAR
\ AT SANE ELEVATION
- NOTE: IN THE ABSENCE OF A
BRACED WALL LINE, BWL A. B,
C SHALL END AT EXTERIOR WALL
_i l
TYPICAL UPPER FLOOR BRACED WALL PLAN
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R602.10.1.1
BRACED WALL LINES
TABLER602.10.1.3
BRACED WALL LINE SPACING
APPLICATION
CONDITION
BUILDING TYPE
BRACED WALL LINE SPACING CRITERIA
Maximum Spacing
Exception to Maximum Spacing
Wind bracing
85 mph to < HOmph
Detached,
townhouse
60 feet
None
Seismic bracing
SDC A - C
Detached
Use wind bracing
SDC A - B
Townhouse
Use wind bracing
SDCC
Townhouse
35 feet
Up to 50 feet when length of required bracing per
Table R602. 10.3(3) is adjusted in accordance with
Table R602. 10.3(4).
SDC D , D„ D 2
Detached, town-
houses, one- and
two-story only
25 feet
Up to 35 feet to allow for a single room not to exceed
900 square feet. Spacing of all other braced wall lines
shall not exceed 25 feet.
SDCD U ,D„D 2
Detached,
townhouse
25 feet
Up to 35 feet when length of required bracing per
Table R602. 10.3(3) is adjusted in accordance with
Table R602. 10.3(4).
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m 2 , 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
164
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 6
WALL CONSTRUCTION
wall lines through the interior of the building shall be
permitted.
R602.10.1.4 Angled walls. Any portion of a wall along
a braced wall line shall be permitted to angle out of
plane for a maximum diagonal length of 8 feet (2438
mm). Where the angled wall occurs at a corner, the
length of the braced wall line shall be measured from
the projected corner as shown in Figure R602.10.1.4.
Where the diagonal length is greater than 8 feet (2438
mm), it shall be considered a separate braced wall line
and shall be braced in accordance with Section
R602.10.1.
R602.10.2 Braced wall panels. Braced wall panels shall
be full-height sections of wall that shall have no vertical or
horizontal offsets. Braced wall panels shall be con-
structed and placed along a braced wall line in accordance
with this section and the bracing methods specified in Sec-
tion R602.1 0.4.
R602.10.2.1 Braced wall panel uplift load path. The
bracing lengths in Table R602. 10.3(1) apply only when
uplift loads are resisted in accordance with Section
R602.3.5.
R602.10.2.2 Locations of braced wall panels. A
braced wall panel shall begin within 10 feet (3810 mm)
from each end of a braced wall line as determined in
Section R602.10.1.1. The distance between adjacent
edges of braced wall panels along a braced wall line
shall be no greater than 20 feet (6096 mm) as shown in
Figure R602. 10.2.2.
R602.10.2.2.1 Location of braced wall panels in
Seismic Design Categories D , D, and I> 2 . Braced
wall panels shall be located at each end of a braced
wall line.
Exception: Braced wall panels constructed of
Methods WSP or BV-WSP and continuous
sheathing methods as specified in Section
R602.10.4 shall be permitted to begin no more
than 10 feet (3048 mm) from each end of a
braced wall line provided each end complies with
one of the following.
1. A minimum 24-inch- wide (610 mm) panel
for Methods WSP, BV-WSP, CS-WSP,
CS-G, and CS-PF, and 32-inch-wide
(813 mm) panel for Method CS-SFB is
applied to each side of the building corner
as shown in Condition 4 of Figure
R602.10.7.
2. The end of each braced wall panel closest
to the end of the braced wall line shall have
an 1,800 lb (8 kN) hold-down device fas-
tened to the stud at the edge of the braced
wall panel closest to the corner and to the
foundation or framing below as shown in
Condition 5 of Figure R602.10.7.
3. For Method BV-WSP, hold-down devices
shall be provided in accordance with Table
R602. 10.6.5 at the ends of each braced
wall panel.
PROJECTED -
CORNER.
a
UJ
O
00
rf^—
BRACED WALL LINE 1
PROJECTED LENGTH OF BRACING -
NOTE: IF THE DIAGONAL WALL IS GREATER
THAN 8 FEET LONG, THEN IT MUST BE TREATED
AS A SEPARATE BRACED WALL LINE.
For SI: l foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R602.10.1 .4
ANGLED WALLS
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
165
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R602. 10.2.3 Minimum number of braced wall pan-
els. Braced wall lines with a length of 16 feet
(4877 mm) or less shall have a minimum of two braced
wall panels of any length or one braced wall panel
equal to 48 inches (1219 mm) or more. Braced wall
lines greater than 16 feet (4877 mm) shall have a mini-
mum of two braced wall panels.
R602.10.3 Required length of bracing. The required
length of bracing along each braced wall line shall be
determined as follows.
1 . All buildings in Seismic Design Categories A and B
shall use Table R602.10.3Q) and the applicable
adjustment factors in Table R602.10.3(2).
2. Detached buildings in Seismic Design Category C
shall use Table R602.10.3(l) and the applicable
adjustment factors in Table R602. 10.3(2).
3. Townhouses in Seismic Design Category C shall use
the greater value determined from Table
R602.10.3(l) or R602.10.3(3) and the applicable
adjustment factors in Table R602.10.3(2) or
R602. 10.3(4) respectively.
4. All buildings in Seismic Design Categories D , D (
and D 2 shall use the greater value determined from
Table R602.10.3(l) or R602.10.3(3) and the appli-
cable adjustment factors in Table R602. 10.3(2) or
R602. 10.3(4) respectively.
Only braced wall panels parallel to the braced wall line
shall contribute toward the required length of bracing of
that braced wall line. Braced wall panels along an angled
wall meeting the minimum length requirements of Tables
R602.10.5 and R602.10.5.2 shall be permitted to contrib-
ute its projected length toward the minimum required
length of bracing for the braced wall line as shown in Fig-
ure R602.10.1.4. Any braced wall panel on an angled wall
at the end of a braced wall line shall contribute its pro-
jected length for only one of the braced wall lines at the
projected corner.
Exception: The length of wall bracing for dwellings in
Seismic Design Categories D , D, and D 2 with stone or
masonry veneer installed per Section R703.7 and
exceeding the first-story height shall be in accordance
with Section R602.10.6.5.
R602.10.4 Construction methods for braced wall pan-
els. Intermittent and continuously sheathed braced wall
panels shall be constructed in accordance with this section
and the methods listed in Table R602.10.4.
NOTE: CONTINUOUS
SHEATHING METHODS
REQUIRE ALL FRAMED
PORTIONS OF THE BRACED
WALL LINE TO BE SHEATHED.
CL
,
D
Z
j>
lii
K
3
—1
<
a
UJ
o
<
BRmC£[>'.'.'A::
PAMEt
a
UJ
PAtffit.
A
: :
CD
"- 5
O
o
CO
1
For SI: 1 foot = 304.!
FIGURE R602.10.2.2
LOCATION OF BRACED WALL PANELS
166
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602. 10.3(1)
BRACING REQUIREMENTS BASED ON WIND SPEED
• EXPOSURE CATEGORY B
• 30 FOOT MEAN ROOF HEIGHT
• 10 FOOT EAVE-TO-RIDGE HEIGHT
10 FOOT WALL HEIGHT
2 BRACED WALL LINES
MINIMUM TOTAL LENGTH (FEET) OF BRACED WALL PANELS
REQUIRED ALONG EACH BRACED WALL LINE"
Basic Wind
Speed
(mph)
Story Location
Braced Wall
Line Spacing
(feet)
Method LIB"
Method GB
Methods
DWB, WSP, SFB,
PBS, PCP, HPS,
CS-SFB C
Methods
CS-WSP, CS-G,
CS-PF
10
3.5
3.5
2.0
1.5
A
20
6.0
6.0
3.5
3.0
a a
30
40
8.5
11.5
8.5
11.5
5.0
6.5
4.5
5.5
LJ □
50
14.0
14.0
8.0
7.0
60
16.5
16.5
9.5
8.0
10
6.5
6.5
3.5
3.0
A
20
11.5
11.5
6.5
5.5
<85
A
k
30
40
50
16.5
21.5
26.5
16.5
21.5
26.5
9.5
12.5
15.0
8.0
10.5
13.0
60
31.5
31.5
18.0
15.5
10
NP
9.0
5.5
4.5
A
20
NP
17.0
10.0
8.5
30
40
NP
NP
24.5
32.0
14.0
18.0
12.0
15.5
50
NP
39.0
22.5
19.0
60
NP
46.5
26.5
22.5
10
3.5
3.5
2.0
2.0
A
£
s^^
k
20
30
7.0
9.5
7.0
9.5
4.0
5.5
3.5
5.0
A □
40
50
12.5
15.5
12.5
15.5
7.5
9.0
6.0
7.5
60
18.5
18.5
10.5
9.0
10
7.0
7.0
4.0
3.5
A
20
13.0
13.0
7.5
6.5
<90
,
A
i.
—
30
40
50
18.5
24.0
29.5
18.5
24.0
29.5
10.5
14.0
17.0
9.0
12.0
14.5
60
35.0
35.0
20.0
17.0
10
NP
10.5
6.0
5.0
A
20
NP
19.0
11.0
9.5
~T
30
NP
27.5
15.5
13.5
J
40
NP
35.5
20.5
17.5
L3
50
NP
44.0
25.0
21.5
60
NP
52.0
30.0
25.5
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 69
167
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602.1 0.3(1)— continued
BRACING REQUIREMENTS BASED ON WIND SPEED
EXPOSURE CATEGORY B
30 FOOT MEAN ROOF HEIGHT
10 FOOT EAVE-TO-RIDGE HEIGHT
10 FOOT WALL HEIGHT
2 BRACED WALL LINES
MINIMUM TOTAL LENGTH (FEET) OF BRACED WALL PANELS
REQUIRED ALONG EACH BRACED WALL LINE 3
Basic Wind
Speed
(mph)
Story Location
Braced Wall
Line Spacing
(feet)
Method LIB"
Method GB
Methods
DWB, WSP, SFB,
PBS, PCP, HPS,
CS-SFB C
Methods
CS-WSP, CS-G,
CS-PF
E3
Zx
Z\
< 100
10
20
30
40
50
60
4.5
8.5
12.0
15.5
19.0
22.5
10
20
30
40
50
60
8.5
16.0
23.0
29.5
36.5
43.5
10
20
30
40
50
60
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
4.5
8.5
12.0
15.5
19.0
22.5
8.5
16.0
23.0
29.5
36.5
43.5
12.5
23.5
34.0
44.0
54.0
64.0
2.5
5.0
7.0
9.0
11.0
13.0
5.0
9.0
13.0
17.0
21.0
25.0
7.5
13.5
19.5
25.0
31.0
36.5
2.5
4.0
6.0
7.5
9.5
11.0
4.5
8.0
11.0
14.5
18.0
21.0
6.0
11.5
16.5
21.5
26.5
31.0
< 1 10 c
/\
/\
z\
10
20
30
40
50
60
5.5
10.0
14.5
18.5
23.0
27.5
10
20
30
40
50
60
10.5
19.0
27.5
36.0
44.0
52.5
10
20
30
40
50
60
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
5.5
10.0
14.5
18.5
23.0
27.5
10.5
19.0
27.5
36.0
44.0
52.5
15.5
28.5
41.0
53.0
65.5
77.5
3.0
6.0
8.5
11.0
13.0
15.5
6.0
11.0
16.0
20.5
25.5
30.0
9.0
16.5
23.5
30.5
37.5
44.5
3.0
5.0
7.0
9.0
11.5
13.5
5.0
9.5
13.5
17.5
21.5
25.5
7.5
14.0
20.0
26.0
32.0
37.5
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 305 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. Linear interpolation shall be permitted.
b. Method LIB shall have gypsum board fastened to at least one side with nails or screws
R702.3.5 for interior gypsum board. Spacing of fasteners at panel edges shall not exceed
c. Method CS-SFB does not apply where the wind speed is greater than 1 00 mph.
in accordance withTable R602.3O) for exterior sheathing or Table
8 inches.
168
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602.1 0.3(2)
WIND ADJUSTMENT FACTORS TO THE REQUIRED LENGTH OF WALL BRACING
ADJUSTMENT BASED ON
STORY/ SUPPORTING
CONDITION
ADJUSTMENT FACTOR 3 b
[multiply length from Table
R602.1 0.3(1) by this factor]
APPLICABLE METHODS
B
1.00
One-story structure
C
D
1.20
1.50
B
1.00
Exposure category
Two-story structure
C
D
1.30
1.60
B
1.00
Three-story structure
C
D
1.40
1.70
< 5 feet
0.70
Roof only
10 feet
15 feet
20 feet
1.00
1.30
1.60
< 5 feet
0.85
Roof eave-to-ridge height
Roof + 1 floor
10 feet
15 feet
20 feet
1.00
1.15
1.30
All methods
< 5 feet
0.90
Roof + 2 floors
10 feet
15 feet
20 feet
1.00
1.10
Not permitted
8 feet
0.90
9 feet
0.95
Wall height adjustment
Any story
10 feet
1 1 feet
12 feet
1.00
1.05
1.10
2
1.00
Number of braced wall lines
(per plan direction)
Any story
3
4
<5
1.30
1.45
1.60
Fastened to the end studs of
Additional 800-pound hold-
down device
Top story only
each braced wall panel and
to the foundation or framing
below
0.80
DWB, WSP, SFB.
PBS, PCP, HPS
Interior gypsum board finish
(or equivalent)
Any story
Omitted from inside face of
braced wall panels
1.40
DWB, WSP, SFB,PBS,
PCP, HPS, CS-WSP,
CS-G, CS-SFB
4 inches o.c. at panel edges,
Gypsum board fastening
Any story
including top and bottom
plates, and all horizontal
joints blocked
0.7
GB
For St: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 305 mm, 1 pound = 4.48 N.
a. Linear interpolation shall be permitted.
b. The total adjustment factor is the product of all applicable adjustment factors.
c. The adjustment factor is permitted to be 1.0 when determining bracing amounts for intermediate braced wall lines provided the bracing amounts on adjacent
braced wall lines are based on a spacing and number that neglects the intermediate braced wall line.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
169
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602.10.3(3)
BRACING REQUIREMENTS BASED ON SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY
SOIL CLASS D b
WALL HEIGHT = 10 FEET
1 PSF FLOOR DEAD LOAD
. 1 5 PSF ROOF/CEILING DEAD LOAD
BRACED WALL LINE SPACING < 25 FEET
MINIMUM TOTAL LENGTH (FEET) OF BRACED WALL PANELS
REQUIRED ALONG EACH BRACED WALL LINE a
Seismic Design
Category
Story Location
Braced Wall
Line Length
(feet)
Method LIB'
Method GB
Methods
DWB, SFB,
PBS, PCP,
HPS, CS-SFB"
Method
WSP
Methods
CS-WSP,
CS-G
10
2.5
2.5
2.5
1.6
1.4
x A
20
5.0
5.0
5.0
3.2
2.7
30
7.5
7.5
7.5
4.8
4.1
fzi :
40
10.0
10.0
10.0
6.4
5.4
50
12.5
12.5
12.5
8.0
6.8
10
NP
4.5
4.5
3.0
2.6
. Z\
20
NP
9.0
9.0
6.0
5.1
C
(townhouses only)
/\
\ ,
-
30
40
NP
NP
13.5
18.0
13.5
18.0
9.0
12.0
7.7
10.2
50
NP
22.5
22.5
15.0
12.8
10
NP
6.0
6.0
4.5
3.8
Z\
20
NP
12.0
12.0
9.0
7.7
30
NP
18.0
18.0
13.5
11.5
40
NP
24.0
24.0
18.0
15.3
50
NP
30.0
30.0
22.5
19.1
10
NP
2.8
2.8
1.8
1.6
s\
/^
20
30
NP
NP
5.5
8.3
5.5
8.3
3.6
5.4
3.1
4.6
&
40
NP
11.0
11.0
7.2
6.1
50
NP
13.8
13.8
9.0
7.7
10
NP
5.3
5.3
3.8
3.2
20
NP
10.5
10.5
7.5
6.4
D„
^
30
NP
15.8
15.8
11.3
9.6
40
NP
21.0
21.0
15.0
12.8
50
NP
26.3
26.3
18.8
16.0
10
NP
7.3
7.3
5.3
4.5
20
NP
14.5
14.5
10.5
9.0
30
NP
21.8
21.8
15.8
13.4
40
NP
29.0
29.0
21.0
17.9
50
NP
36.3
36.3
26.3
22.3
(continued)
170
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602.1 0.3(3)— continued
BRACING REQUIREMENTS BASED ON SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY
SOIL CLASS D b
WALL HEIGHT = 10 FEET
10 PSF FLOOR DEAD LOAD
1 5 PSF ROOF/CEILING DEAD LOAD
BRACED WALL LINE SPACING < 25 FEET
MINIMUM TOTAL LENGTH (FEET) OF BRACED WALL PANELS
REQUIRED ALONG EACH BRACED WALL LINE"
Seismic Design
Category
Story Location
Braced Wall
Line Length
(feet)
Method LIB C
Method GB
Methods
DWB, SFB,
PBS, PCP,
HPS, CS-
SFB d
Method
WSP
Methods
CS-WSP,
CS-G
D,
A z\
ft
10
20
30
40
50
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
3.0
6.0
9.0
12.0
15.0
3.0
6.0
9.0
12.0
15.0
2.0
4.0
6.0
8.0
10.0
1.7
3.4
5.1
6.8
8.5
—
f
j
A
10
20
30
40
50
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
6.0
12.0
18.0
24.0
30.0
6.0
12.0
18.0
24.0
30.0
4.5
9.0
13.5
18.0
22.5
3.8
7.7
11.5
15.3
19.1
/\
10
20
30
40
50
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
8.5
17.0
25.5
34.0
42.5
8.5
17.0
25.5
34.0
42.5
6.0
12.0
18.0
24.0
30.0
5.1
10.2
15.3
20.4
25.5
D 2
&
/S
^
10
20
30
40
50
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
4.0
8.0
12.0
16.0
20.0
4.0
8.0
12.0
16.0
20.0
2.5
5.0
7.5
10.0
12.5
2.1
4.3
6.4
8.5
10.6
A
\
j
10
20
30
40
50
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
7.5
15.0
22.5
30.0
37.5
7.5
15.0
22.5
30.0
37.5
5.5
11.0
16.5
22.0
27.5
4.7
9.4
14.0
18.7
23.4
A
:
10
20
30
40
50
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
Cripple wall below
one- or two-story dwelling
10
20
30
40
50
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
7.5
15.0
22.5
30.0
37.5
6.4
12.8
19.1
25.5
31.9
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 305 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Linear interpolation shall be permitted.
b. Wall bracing lengths are based on a soil site class "D." Interpolation of bracing length between the S Js values associated with the Seismic Design Categories
shall be permitted when a site-specific S js value is determined in accordance with Section 161 3.3 of the Internationa! Building Code.
c. Method LIB shall have gypsum board fastened to at least one side with nails or screws per Table R602.3Q) for exterior sheathing or Table R702.3.5 for
interior gypsum board. Spacing of fasteners at panel edges shall not exceed 8 inches.
d. Method CS-SFB applies in SDC C only.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 18
171
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602.1 0.3(4)
SEISMIC ADJUSTMENT FACTORS TO THE REQUIRED LENGTH OF WALL BRACING
ADJUSTMENT
BASED ON:
STORY/SUPPORTING
CONDITION
ADJUSTMENT
FACTOR 3 »
[Multiply length from
Table R602. 10.3(1) by
this factor]
APPLICABLE
METHODS
Story height
(Section 301.3)
Any story
< 10 feet
> 10 feet and < 12 feet
1.0
1.2
All methods
Braced wall line spacing,
townhouses in SDC C
Any story
< 35 feet
> 35 feet and < 50 feet
1.0
1.43
Braced wall line spacing,
in SDC D , D„ D 2 C
Any story
> 25 feet and < 30 feet
> 30 feet and < 35 feet
1.2
1.4
Wall dead load
Any story
> 8 psf and < 1 5 psf
<8psf
1.0
0.85
Roof/ceiling dead load for
wall supporting
Roof only or roof plus one or
two stories
<15psf
1.0
Roof plus one or two stories
> 15 psf and < 25 psf
> 15 psf and < 25 psf
1.1
1.2
Roof only
Walls with stone or
masonry veneer, town-
houses in SDC' U
6 B
A
1.0
All intermittent and
continuous methods
A
A Lis
61!
1.5
6
§'
A
1.5
Walls with stone or
masonry veneer, detached
one-and two-family
dwellings in SDC D - D,"
Any story
See Table R602. 10.6.5
BV-WSP
Interior gypsum board
finish (or equivalent)
Any story
Omitted from
inside face of braced wall panels
1.5
DWB, WSP, SFB,
PBS, PCP, HPS,
CS-WSP, CS-G,
CS-SFB
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Linear interpolation shall be permitted.
b. The total length of braci ng required for a given wall line is the product of all applicable adjustment factors.
c. The length-to- width ratio for the floor/roof diaphragm shall not exceed 3:1. The top plate lap splice nailing shall be a minimum of 1 2- 1 6d nails on each side
of the splice.
d. Applies to stone or masonry veneer exceeding the first story height. See Section R602. 10.6.5 for requirements when stone or masonry veneer does not exceed
the first story height.
e. The adjustment factor for stone or masonry veneer shall be applied to all exterior braced wall lines and all braced wall lines on the interior of the building,
backing or perpendicular to and laterally supported veneered walls.
172
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602.10.4
BRACING METHODS
METHODS, MATERIAL
MINIMUM THICKNESS
FIGURE
CONNECTION CRITERIA 8
Fasteners
Spacing
LIB
Let-in-bracing
1x4 wood or
approved metal straps
at 45° to 60° angles for
maximum 16"
stud spacing
■DM
Wood: 2-8d common nails
or
3-8d (27 2 " long x 0.1 13" dia.) nails
Wood: per stud and
top and bottom plates
Metal strap: per manufacturer
Metal:
per manufacturer
DWB
Diagonal
wood boards
3 / 4 "(l" nominal) for
maximum 24"
stud spacing
2-8d (27 2 " long x 0.113" dia.) nails
or
2 - l ; 7 4 "long staples
Per stud
-3
o
pa
WSP
Wood
structural panel
(See Section R604)
:
Exterior sheathing per
Table R602.3(3)
6" edges 12" field
Interior sheathing per
Table R602.3(l) or R602.3(2)
Varies by fastener
BV-WSP*
Wood Structural
Panels with Stone
or Masonry Veneer
(See Section
R602. 10.6.5)
See Figure R602. 10.6.5
8d common (27," x 0.131) nails
4" at panel edges
12" at intermediate
supports 4" at braced
wall panel end posts
SFB
Structural
fiberboard sheath-
ing
7," or %" for
maximum 16"
stud spacing
17 2 " long x 0.12" dia. (for 7," thick
sheathing) lV 4 " long x 0.12" dia.
(for 25 /, 2 " thick sheathing)
galvanized roofing nails or 8d common
(27 2 "long x 0.131 "dia.) nails
3 "edges 6" field
GB
Gypsum board
Nails or screws per Table R602.3(l ) for
exterior locations
PBS
Particleboard
sheathing
(See Section R605)
3 / 8 "or7,"for
maximum 16"
stud spacing
PCP
Portland
cement plaster
HPS
Hardboard
panel siding
ABW
Alternate
braced wall
See Section R703.6 for
maximum 16"
stud spacing
7 / l6 " for maximum 16'
stud spacing
i
Nails or screws per Table R702.3.5 for
interior locations
For all braced wall
panel locations: 7"
edges (including top
and bottom plates) 7"
field
For 7 8 ", 6d common
(2" long x 0.1 13 "dia.) nails
For 7 2 ", 8d common
(27 2 " long x 0.131" dia.) nails
l7 2 "long, 1 1 gage, 7 / l6 "dia. head nails
or
7 / 8 " long, 1 6 gage staples
0.092" dia., 0.225" dia. head nails with
length to accommodate 1 7,"
penetration into studs
See Section R602. 10.6. 1
3 " edges 6 " field
6"o.c. on all framing
members
4 " edges 8 " field
See
Section R602. 10.6.1
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
173
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602.1 0.4— continued
BRACING METHODS
METHODS, MATERIAL
MINIMUM THICKNESS
FIGURE
CONNECTION CRITERIA"
Fasteners
Spacing
XI
G
2
CQ
00
o
U
PFH
Portal frame with
hold-downs
See Section R602. 10.6.:
See Section R602.10.6.2
PFG
Portal frame at garage
V
See Section R602.1 0.6. 3
See Section R602. 10.6.3
CS-WSP
Continuously sheathed
wood structural panel
V
Exterior sheathing per
Table R602.3(3)
6 "edges 12" field
Interior sheathing per
Table R602.3(l) or R602.3(2)
Varies by fastener
CS-G"- C
Continuously sheathed
wood structural panel
adjacent to garage
openings
V,"
V
See Method CS-WSP
See Method CS-WSP
CS-PF
Continuously sheathed
portal frame
7 V,"
See Section R602. 10.6.4
See Section R602.10.6.4
CS-SFB"
Continuously sheathed
structural fiberboard
V 2 "or 25 / 32 "for
maximum 16"
stud spacing
17 2 " long x 0.12" dia.
(for V 2 " thick sheathing)
l 3 / 4 "longx 0.12" dia.
(for 25 / :!2 " thick sheathing)
galvanized roofing nails or
8d common
(27 2 " long x 0.131" dia.) nails
3 "edges 6" field
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 305 mm, 1 degree = 0.0175 rad, 1 pound per square foot = 47.8 N/nr, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. Adhesive attachment of wall sheathing, including Method GB, shall not be permitted in Seismic Design Categories C, D„, D, and D.,.
b. Applies to panels next to garage door opening when supporting gable end wall or roof load only. May only be used on one wall of the garage. In Seismic
Design Categories D,„ D, and D, roof covering dead load may not exceed 3 psf.
c. Garage openings adjacent to a Method CS-G panel shall be provided with a header in accordance with Table R502.5(1). A full height clear opening shall not
be permitted adjacent to a Method CS-G panel.
d. Method CS-SFB does not apply in Seismic Design Categories D„, D, and D 2 and in areas where the wind speed exceeds 100 mph.
e. Method applies to detached one- and two-family dwellings in Seismic Design Categories D„ through D, only.
174
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R602.10.4.1 Mixing methods. Mixing of bracing
methods shall be permitted as follows:
1. Mixing intermittent bracing and continuous
sheathing methods from story to story shall be
permitted.
2. Mixing intermittent bracing methods from
braced wall line to braced wall line within a story
shall be permitted. Within Seismic Design Cate-
gories A, B and C or in regions where the basic
wind speed is less than or equal to 100 mph (45
m/s), mixing of intermittent bracing and continu-
ous sheathing methods from braced wall line to
braced wall line within a story shall be permitted.
3. Mixing intermittent bracing methods along a
braced wall line shall be permitted in Seismic
Design Categories A and B, and detached dwell-
ings in Seismic Design Category C provided the
length of required bracing in accordance with
Table R602.10.3(l) or R602. 10.3(3) is the high-
est value of all intermittent bracing methods
used.
4. Mixing of continuous sheathing methods CS-
WSP, CS-G and CS-PF along a braced wall line
shall be permitted.
5. In Seismic Design Categories A and B, and for
detached one- and two-family dwellings in Seis-
mic Design Category C, mixing of intermittent
bracing methods along the interior portion of a
braced wall line with continuous sheathing meth-
ods CS-WSP, CS-G and CS-PF along the exterior
portion of the same braced wall line shall be per-
mitted. The length of required bracing shall be
the highest value of all intermittent bracing meth-
ods used in accordance with Table R602.10.3(l)
or R602. 10.3(3) as adjusted by Tables
R602. 10.3(2) and R602. 10.3(4), respectively.
The requirements of Section R602.10.7 shall
apply to each end of the continuously sheathed
portion of the braced wall line.
R602.10.4.2 Continuous sheathing methods. Contin-
uous sheathing methods require structural panel sheath-
ing to be used on all sheathable surfaces on one side of
a braced wall line including areas above and below
openings and gable end walls and shall meet the
requirements of Section R602.10.7.
R602.10.4.3 Braced wall panel interior finish mate-
rial. Braced wall panels shall have gypsum wall board
installed on the side of the wall opposite the bracing
material. Gypsum wall board shall be not less than 7 2
inch (12.7 mm) in thickness and be fastened with nails
or screws in accordance with Table R602.3(l) for exte-
rior sheathing or Table R702.3.5 for interior gypsum
wall board. Spacing of fasteners at panel edges for
gypsum wall board opposite Method LIB bracing shall
not exceed 8 inches (203 mm). Interior finish material
shall not be glued in Seismic Design Categories D , D,
and D 2 .
Exceptions:
1. Interior finish material is not required opposite
wall panels that are braced in accordance with
Methods GB, BV-WSP, ABW, PFH, PFG and
CS-PF, unless otherwise required by Section
R302.6.
2. An approved interior finish material with an
in-plane shear resistance equivalent to gypsum
board shall be permitted to be substituted,
unless otherwise required by Section R302.6.
3. Except for Method LIB, gypsum wall board is
permitted to be omitted provided the required
length of bracing in Tables R602. 10.3(1) and
R602. 10.3(3) is multiplied by the appropriate
adjustment factor in Tables R602. 10.3(2) and
R602. 10.3(4) respectively, unless otherwise
required by Section R302.6.
R602.10.5 Minimum length of a braced wall panel. The
minimum length of a braced wall panel shall comply with
Table R602.10.5. For Methods CS-WSP and CS-SFB, the
minimum panel length shall be based on the adjacent clear
opening height in accordance with Table R602.10.5 and
Figure R602.10.5. When a panel has an opening on either
side of differing heights, the taller opening height shall be
used to determine the panel length.
R602. 10.5.1 Contributing length. For purposes of
computing the required length of bracing in Tables
R602.10.3(l) and R602.10.3(3), the contributing length
of each braced wall panel shall be as specified in Table
R602.10.5.
R602.10.5.2 Partial credit. For Methods DWB, WSP.
SFB, PBS, PCP and HPS in Seismic Design Categories
A, B and C, panels between 36 inches and 48 inches
(914 mm and 121 9 mm)) in length shall be considered a
braced wall panel and shall be permitted to partially
contribute toward the required length of bracing in
Tables R602.10.3(l) and R602. 10.3(3), and the contrib-
uting length shall be determined from Table
R602. 10.5.2.
R602.10.6 Construction of Methods ABW, PFH, PFG,
CS-PF and BV-WSP. Methods ABW, PFH, PFG, CS-PF
and BV-WSP shall be constructed as specified in Sections
R602. 10.6.1 through R602. 10.6.5.
R602.10.6.1 Method ABW: Alternate braced wall
panels. Method ABW braced wall panels shall be con-
structed in accordance with Figure R602. 10.6.1. The
hold-down force shall be in accordance with Table
R602. 10.6.1.
R602.10.6.2 Method PFH: Portal frame with hold-
downs. Method PFH braced wall panels shall be con-
structed in accordance with Figure R602. 10.6.2.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
175
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602.10.5
MINIMUM LENGTH OF BRACED WALL PANELS
METHOD
(See Table R602.1 0.4)
MINIMUM LENGTH 8
(inches)
CONTRIBUTING LENGTH
(inches)
Wall Height
8 feet
9 feet
10 feet
11 feet
1 2 feet
DWB, WSP, SFB, PBS, PCP. HPS, BV-WSP
48
48
48
53
58
Actual"
GB
48
48
48
53
58
Double sided = Actual
Single sided = 0.5 x Actual
LIB
55
62
69
NP
NP
Actual"
ABW
SDC A, B and C,
wind speed < 1 10 mph
28
32
34
38
42
48
SDC D , D, and D 2 ,
wind speed < 110 mph
32
32
34
NP
NP
PFH
Supporting roof only
16
16
16
18 c
20 c
48
Supporting one story and roof
24
24
24
27 c
29 c
48
PFG
24
27
30
33 d
36 J
1.5 x Actual"
CS-G
24
27
30
33
36
Actual"
CS-PF
16
18
20
22 e
24 e
Actual"
CS-WSP, CS-SFB
Adjacent clear opening height
(inches)
<64
24
27
30
33
36
Actual"
68
26
27
30
33
36
72
27
27
30
33
36
76
30
29
30
33
36
80
32
30
30
33
36
84
35
32
32
33
36
88
38
35
33
33
36
92
43
37
35
35
36
96
48
41
38
36
36
100
—
44
40
38
38
104
—
49
43
40
39
108
—
54
46
43
41
112
—
—
50
45
43
116
—
—
55
48
45
120
—
—
60
52
48
124
—
—
—
56
51
128
—
—
—
61
54
132
—
—
—
66
58
136
—
—
—
—
62
140
—
—
—
—
66
144
—
—
—
—
72
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
NP = Not Permitted.
a. Linear interpolation shall be permitted.
b. Use the actual length when it is greater than or equal to the minimum length.
c. Maximum header height for PFH is 10 feet in accordance with Figure R602.1 0.6.2, but wall height may be increased to 1 2 feet with pony wall.
d. Maximum opening height for PFG is 10 feet in accordance with Figure R602.10.6.3, but wall height may be increased to 12 feet with pony wall.
e. Maximum opening height for CS-PF is 10 feet in accordance with Figure R602.1 0.6.4. but wall height may be increased to 12 feet with pony wall.
176
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
V/V////4
/ X / / / / ,//
//\//h /
■ / / / / //\ y
:Jy/////k,
///////////////////////////
V// ///////////// /// / //////,
PANEL
LENGTH
PANEL
LENGTH
FIGURE R602.10.5
BRACED WALL PANELS WITH CONTINUOUS SHEATHING
PANEL
LENGTH
TABLE R602.1 0.5.2
PARTIAL CREDIT FOR BRACED WALL PANELS LESS THAN 48 INCHES IN ACTUAL LENGTH
ACTUAL LENGTH OF BRACED WALL PANEL
(inches)
CONTRIBUTING LENGTH OF BRACED WALL PANEL
(inches) 8
8-foot Wall Height
9-foot Wall Height
48
48
48
42
36
36
36
27
N/A
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
N/A = Not Applicable.
a. Lineai- interpolation shall be permitted.
TABLE R602.10.6.1
MINIMUM HOLD-DOWN FORCES FOR METHOD ABW BRACED WALL PANELS
SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY AND WIND SPEED
SUPPORTING/STORY
HOLD DOWN FORCE (pounds)
Height of Braced Wall Panel
8 feet
9 feet
10 feet
1 1 feet
12 feet
SDC A, B and C
Wind speed < 1 10 mph
One story
1,800
1,800
1,800
2,000
2.200
First of two stories
3,000
3,000
3,000
3,300
3,600
SDC D , D, and D,
Wind speed < 1 10 mph
One story
1,800
1,800
1,800
NP
NP
First of two stories
3,000
3,000
3,000
NP
NP
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, l foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 4.45 N, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
NP = Not Permitted.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
177
WALL CONSTRUCTION
PANEL LENGTH PER
TABLE RE02.10.5
M IN. 3(8" WOOD
STRUCTURAL PANEL
SHEATHING ON ONE FACE
MIN. 2X4 FRAMING MIN
DOUBLE STUDS REQUIRED.
(2) HOLD-DOWN OR (2) STRAP-TYPE
ANCHORS PER TABLE RE02.10.&1 (ONI
OF EACH SHOWN FQRCLARITY).
STRAP-TYPEANCHORS SHALL BE
PERMITTED TO BEATTACHED OVER
THE WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL
PANEL MUST BEATTACHED
TO CONCRETE FOOTING OR
CONCRETE FOUNDATION
WALL CONTINUOUS OVER
BRACED WALLLINE
(2) 1/2" DIAHETERANCHOR
BOLTS LOCATED BETWEEN
6" AND 12' OF EACH END OF
THE SEGMENT
F OR PANEL SPLICE (IF NEEDED !
ADJOINING PANEL EDGES SHALL MEET
OVER AND BE FASTENED TO COMMON
FRAMING
SD COMMON OR GALV. BOX NAILS @ 6"
O.C. AT PANEL EDGES. FOR SINGLE
STORY AND © 4" O.C. PANEL EDGES
FORTHE FIRST OF 2STORIES
STUDS UNDER HEADER AS REQUIRED
3D COMMON OR GALV. BOX NAILS © 12"
O.C. AT INTERIOR SUPPORTS
MIN. REINFORCING OF FOUNDATION,
ONE m BAR TOP AND BOTTOM. LAP
BARS 15' MINIMUM
MINIMUM FOOTING SIZE UNDER
OPENING IS 12- X 12" A TURNED-DOWN
SLAB SHALL BE PERMITTED AT DOOR
OPENINGS.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R602.10.6.1
METHOD ABW— ALTERNATE BRACED WALL PANEL
EXTENT OF HEADER WITH DOUBLE PORTAL FRAMES (TWO BRACED WALL PANELS).
EXTENT OF HEADER WITH SINGLE PORTAL FRAME
(ONE BRACED WALL PANEL)
2< -UNFINISHED WIDTH OF OPENING
FOR SINGLE OR DOUBLE PORTAL ""
LLh Ri J j I
liitliiiiiiii
FASTEN SHEATHING TO HEADER WITH £3
COMMON OR GALVANIZED B0XNASL5 IN 3~GRID
PATTERN AS SHOWN:
HEADER TO JACK-STUD ST RAP PER TABLE
RS02.1 0.6.4 ON BOTH SIDES OF OPE NlflG
OPPOSITE SIDE OF SHEATHING
MIN. DOUBLE 2X4 FRAMING COVE MED WITH MIN
3/S"THICKWOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL SHEATHING
WITH SO COMM ON OR GALVANIZE D BOX NAILS AT
5" O.C. IH ALL FRAMING pTUOS, BLOCKING, AND
SILLS)TYP
MIN. LENGTH OF PAJtELPER TABLE R602.10.5
MIN. (2)4200 LB STRAP-TYPE HOLD-DOWNS
(EMBEDDED INTO CONCRETE AND NAILED INTO
FRAMING)
MIN. REINFORCING OF FOUNDATION, ONE #4 BAR
TOP ANO BOTTOM OF FOOTING. LPP BARS 15"
MINIM
TENSION STRAP PER
TABLE R602. 10.6.4 (ON
OPPOSITE SIDE OF
SHEATHING)
IF NEEDED, PANEL
SPLICE EDGES SHALL
OCCUR OVER AND BE
HAILED TO COMMON
BLOCKING WITHIN
MIDDLE 24" OF WALL
MID-HEIGHT. ONE
ROW OF T O.C.
NAILING IS REQUIRE D
IN EACH PANELEDGE,
TYPICAL PORTAL
FRAfilE CONSTRUCTION
- MIN. DOUBLE 2x4 POST
(KING AND JACK STUD).
NUMBER OF JACK STUDS
PERTABLESR502S(1)S
m
-MIN:. 1M0LB HOLD-DOWN
DEVICE (EMBEDDED INTO
CONCRETE AND NAILED
INTO FRAMING
FASTEN TOP
PLATE TO
HEADER WITH
TWO
ROWS OF 160
SINKER NAILS AT
3"0.C.TYP.
MIN. 3/8" WOOD
STRUCTURAL
PANEL
SHEATHING
MIN. FOOTING SIZE UNDER OPENING IS 12"X12". A TURNED-
DOWN SLAB SHALL BE PERMITTED AT DOOR OPENINGS.
MIN. (1)5/8" DIAMETER ANCHORBOLT INSTALLED PER
R403 1 .6 - WITH 2" X 2" X 3/1 6" PLATE WASHER
FRONT ELEVATION
SECTION
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 i
FIGURE R602.10.6.2
METHOD PFH— PORTAL FRAME WITH HOLD-DOWNS
178
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
**
R602.10.6.3 Method PFG: Portal frame at garage
door openings in Seismic Design Categories A, B
and C. Where supporting a roof or one story and a
roof, a Method PFG braced wall panel constructed in
accordance with Figure R602. 10.6.3 shall be permitted
on either side of garage door openings.
R602.1 0.6.4 Method CS-PF: Continuously sheathed
portal frame. Continuously sheathed portal frame
braced wall panels shall be constructed in accordance
with Figure R602. 10.6.4 and Table R602.10.6.4. The
number of continuously sheathed portal frame panels in
a single braced wall line shall not exceed four.
R602. 10.6.5 Wall bracing for dwellings with stone
and masonry veneer in Seismic Design Categories
D , D, and D 2 . Where stone and masonry veneer are
installed in accordance with Section R703.7, wall brac-
ing on exterior braced wall lines and braced wall lines
on the interior of the building, backing or perpendicular
to and laterally supporting veneered walls shall comply
with this section.
Where dwellings in Seismic Design Categories D ,
D, and D 2 have stone or masonry veneer installed in
accordance with Section R703.7, and the veneer does
not exceed the first-story height, wall bracing shall be
in accordance with Section R602.10.3.
Where detached one- or two-family dwellings in
Seismic Design Categories D () , D, and D 2 have stone or
masonry veneer installed in accordance with Section
R703.7, and the veneer exceeds the fust-story height,
wall bracing at exterior braced wall lines and braced
wall lines on the interior of the building shall be con-
structed using Method BV-WSP in accordance with
this section and Figure R602.10.6.5. Cripple walls shall
not be permitted, and required interior braced wall
lines shall be supported on continuous foundations.
Townhouses in Seismic Design Categories D , D,
and D 2 with stone or masonry veneer exceeding the
first-story height shall be designed in accordance with
accepted engineering practice.
R602.10.6.5.1 Length of bracing. The length of
bracing along each braced wall line shall be the
greater of that required by the design wind speed
and braced wall line spacing in accordance with
Table R602.10.3(l) as adjusted by the factors in the
Table R602. 10.3(2) or the Seismic Design Category
and braced wall line length in accordance with
Table R602. 10.6.5. Angled walls shall be permitted
to be counted in accordance with Section
R602.10.1.4, and braced wall panel location shall be
in accordance with Section R602. 10.2.2. The seis-
mic adjustment factors in Table R602. 10.3(4) shall
not be applied to the length of bracing determined
using Table R602.10.6.5. In no case shall the mini-
mum total length of bracing in a braced, wall line,
after all adjustments have been taken, be less than 48
inches (1219 mm) total.
■EXTENT OF HEADER WITH DOUBLE PORTO- FRAMES (TWO BRACED- WALL PANELS)-
EXTENT OF HEADER WITH SINGLE PORTAL FRAME _
CONiE BRACED WALL PANEL)
T AS F 1 Ml SH E VSI DTH Of OPE N IN 6 _
FOR! SINGLE OR DOUBLE PORTAL
WiltTX-lCWttT'Hf
FASTEN SHEATHING TO HEADER WITH SD
COMU DM OR GALVANIZED B0XNAILS IN 3" GRID
PATTERN AS SHOWN
HEADER TO JACK-STUDSTRAP PER TABLE
RGD2.1 0.6 .4 OK BOTH SIO ES Of PE ) Mi G
OPPOSITE SIDE OF SHEATHING
MIN. DOUBLE 2" X 4" FRAMING COVERED WTH MM.
TdrTHICKWOOD STRUCTURAL PANE LSHEATJHtNG
WITH 8D CO MM ON OR GALVAM iZL B OX NAILS AT 3*
O.C. IN FRAMING (STUDS AMD SILLS) AS SHOWN,
M IN. LENGTH OF PANEL PERTABLr H602 10.5
MIN. P)1/7'0I.AMETEBAJICH0R BOLTS
INSTALLED PER R403.1 .6 WITH 2" X 2" X 3/1 6" PLATE
WASHER
V-
TENSION ST3A= PER
TABLE 602.10.6.4
(OH OPPOSITE SIDE
OF SHEATHING}
IF NEEDED, PANEL
SPLICE EDGES SHALL
OCCUR OVER AND BE
NAILED TO COMMON
BLOCKING WITHIN 24"
OFTHE WALLMiD-
H EIGHT. ONE ROW OF
3" O.C. MAILING IS
RE QU RED IN EACH
PANE LEDGE.
TYPICAL PORTAL
FRAME COWSTRU CTION -
-MIN.DOUFJLE2X4POST
(KING AMD JACK STUD).
NUI.IBEROFJACK
STUDS PER TABLES
R502. 5(1)8 C2>
-INTERMmTE NT BRACED
WALLPANELPAHEL
RE QUIRED ADJACENT
OPENING FOR SINGLE
PORTAL FRAME
. FASTEN TOP
PLATE TO
HEADER WITH
TWO
ROWS OF 160
SMK.ER HAILS AT
3-O.C.TVP.
Ml
STRUCTURAL
PANEL
SHEATHING
FRONT ELEVATION
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.S mm.
ANCHOR BOLTS PER
SECTION R403.1.6
SECTION
METHOD PFG-
FIGURE R602.10.6.3
-PORTAL FRAME AT GARAGE DOOR OPENINGS !N SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORIES A, B AND C
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
179
WALL CONSTRUCTION
EXTENTOF FEADEP.WITHDQtfflLE PORTAL FRAMES {TWO BRACED WALL PANELS)-.
EXTENT OF H EAD EP. wl TH: S#iGLE PORTAL FRAME
SOKE BRACED WALL PANEL) -
2' -18 FINISHED WIDTH OF OFiEMfs&G
FOR SINGLE OR DOUBLE PORTAL
1 J=
I . 1 s E L
TLI EADE PRCBIBI §:
sail
II
CTRL SHEATHING TO HEADER WITH £D
>f^ON OR GALVANIZED :&OX KAILS 1^ 3" GR E
l.TTERW AS SHOWJI
HEADER TO JACK-STUD STRAP FER TABLE
RSB21 0.S.-S ON BOTH SIDES OF OPEM&S©
OPFOEiTESIBE. OF SHEATHING
M-IN. . DOiiBLiE 2X-- F RAMI N G COVER:ED W ITK .^@ML
7/W f THICK WOOD STRUCTURAL PA^EL.
S-BEATH IMG WITH SO COMMON OR GALVANIZED
BOX NAILS AT' 3* O.C. I K ALL FR/Ml riG [STUDS.
BLOCKING, AND SILLS) TYP.
MN. LENGTH OF PANEL PER TABLE R&JZ 10 .5
MH. {2} 1 ^DIAMETER ANCHOR BOLTS
INSTALLED PER R433.1. 8 WITH Zfe2"M3/1& s ' PLATE
WASHER
"i"K
^=Ci
OVERCOHCRETE OR MASONRY BLOCK FOUNDATION
TENSION STRAP PER
TABLE ©02.1O.S.4
COM OPPOSITE SIDE
OF SHEATHING}
GRACED WALL LIME
CONTIGUOUSLY SHEATHED
WITH WOOD STRUCTURAL
PANELS
IF WEEDED PANEL
SPUCE EDGES SHALL
OCCUR AMD BE
ATTACHED TO
COMMOft BLOCKING
WITHIN 24* OF WALL
MID- HEIGHT ONiE ROW
OF 3*0.0 NIAILKS \S
REQUIRED IN EACH
PANEL EDGE.
TYPICAL FOR TA-L
FRAME CONSTRIJC T)OU
- Mm. DOUBLE 2x4 POST
(Kim At€) JACK STUD) .
MUMBEF. OF JACK
ST15DSPER TABLES
R502.5[1>&|2i
ANCHOR BOLTS PER
SECTION R433. 1.8
FASTEN TOP PLATE TO
HEADER WITH TWO
ROWS OF 160 SICKER
NAILS AT T O.O. TYP.
urn. -/lefwooo
STRUCTURAL PANEL
SHEATHIKS
- WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL
SHEATH IMG TO TOP OF BAMD OR
RIM JOST
MAIL SOLE PLATE -
TO JOIST PER
TABLE R*aQ2.3(1)
(2) FR AMMG- ASSHSRS
APPLIED ACROSS
SHEATHI-N G JO N T WITH A
CAPACITY OF ST€l LBS IN
THE HORiZOMTALAND
VERTICAL DIRECTIONS
"- WOOD STRUCTURALFA^ELSHEATHINGOVERAPPROVED EAK;D OR ftlfcl JOIST
OVERRAIS£DMX>DFLOtm-fRAMIMG ANCHOR OPTION
[WHEN PORTAL SHEATHING DOES ^OTLAP OVER BAMD OR RIM JOIST)
NAIL SOLE
PLATE TO JOIST
PER TABLE
R 60.2305
APPROVED fiA'^D
OR RIM JOIST
-5 ?
V
WOOD STRUCTURAL
PAMEL SHEATKH*S
- COFIT1 H UOUS OVER BAN D
OR RIM JOIST
NAIL SOLE PLATE
TO JOIST PER
TABLE. ;RSD23£1 )
ATTACH SHEATHIMG TO
BAILOR RIM JOIST WITH
3D COMWOK HAILS AT.3'
O.O TOP AMD BOTTOM
"■— — vVDDD STRUCTURAL PAf-iEi SWEATHIHS OVER APPROVED BAMD OR RIM JOIST
OVER RAISED VUDOD FLOOR -OVERLAP OPTION
(WH EN PORTAL SHEAT h*IHG LAPS OVER SAND OR R I M BOARD)
FRONT ELEVATION
NAIL SOLE
PLATE TO JOIST
PER TABLE
RSQZ3K1)
APPROVED EAi-W
OR RIM JOIST
SECTION
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R602.10.6.4
METHOD CS-PF— CONTINUOUSLY SHEATHED PORTAL FRAME PANEL CONSTRUCTION
180
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602.1 0.6.4
TENSION STRAP CAPACITY REQUIRED FOR RESISTING WIND PRESSURES
PERPENDICULAR TO METHOD PFH, PFG AND CS-PF BRACED WALL PANELS
MINIMUM WALL STUD
FRAMING NOMINAL SIZE AND
GRADE
MAXIMUM PONY
WALL HEIGHT
(feet)
MAXIMUM
TOTAL WALL
HEIGHT (feet)
MAXIMUM
OPENING
WIDTH
(feet)
TENSION STRAP CAPACITY REQUIRED (pounds) 3 ' b
Basle Wind Speed (mph)
85
90
100
85
90 100
Exposure B
Exposure C
2 x 4 No. 2 Grade
10
18
1,000
1,000
1,000
1 ,000
1,000
1,000
1
10
9
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,000
1,275
16
1,000
1,000
1,750
1,800
2,325
3,500
18
1,000
1,200
2,100
2,175
2,725
DR
2
10
9
1,000
1,000
1,025
1,075
1,550
2,500
16
1,525
2,025
3,125
3,200
3,900
DR
18
1,875
2,400
3,575
3,700
DR
DR
2
12
9
1,000
1,200
2,075
2,125
2,750
4,000
16
2,600
3,200
DR
DR
DR
DR
18
3,175
3,850
DR
DR
DR
DR
4
12
9
1,775
2,350
3,500
3,550
DR
DR
16
4,175
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
2x6 Stud Grade
2
12
9
1,000
1,000
1,325
1,375
1,750
2,550
16
1 ,650
2,050
2,925
3,000
3,550
DR
18
2,025
2,450
3,425
3,500
4,100
DR
4
12
9
1,125
1,500
2,225
2,275
2,775
3,800
16
2,650
3,150
DR
DR
DR
DR
18
3,125
3,675
DR
DR
DR
DR
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 ram, 1 pound = 4.45 N
a. DR = design required.
b. Strap shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
181
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R602.1 0.6.5
METHOD BV-WSP WALL BRACING REQUIREMENTS
SEISMIC DESIGN
CATEGORY
STORY
BRACED WALL LINE LENGTH (FEET)
SINGLE-STORY
HOLD-DOWN
FORCE
(pounds)"
CUMULATIVE
HOLD-DOWN
FORCE
(pounds)"
10
20
30
40
50
MINIMUM TOTAL LENGTH (FEET) OF BRACED WALL PANELS
REQUIRED ALONG EACH BRACED WALL LINE
Do
ft t 1
4.0
7.0
10.5
14.0
17.5
N/A
—
6 E
)
4.0
7.0
10.5
14.0
17.5
1900
—
U i L
4.5
9.0
13.5
18.0
22.5
3500
5400
e § E
.
6.0
12.0
18.0
24.0
30.0
3500
8900
D,
AD □
nr □ □
4.5
9.0
13.5
18.0
22.5
2100
—
6r fit
4.5
9.0
13.5
18.0
22.5
3700
5800
e§
j$
6.0
12.0
18.0
24.0
30.0
3700
9500
D 2
□ □ L
\
5.5
11.0
16.5
22.0
27.5
2300
-
n ■
■4
5.5
11.0
16.5
22.0
27.5
3900
6200
al
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
N/A
N/A
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.479 kPa, 1 pound-force = 4.448 N.
NP = Not Permitted.
N/A = Not Applicable.
a Hold-down force is minimum allowable stress design load for connector providing uplift tie from wall framing at end of braced wall panel at the noted story
to wall framing at end of braced wall panel at the story below, or to foundation or foundation wall. Use single-story hold-down force where edges of braced
wall panels do not align; a continuous load path to the foundation shall be maintained.
b. Where hold-down connectors from stories above align with stories below, use cumulative hold-down force to size middle- and bottom-story hold-down
connectors.
182
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
EXTENT OF
ALIGNED BRACED
WALL PANELS
EDGE NAIL
SHEATHING
TO BRACED
WALL PANEL
END POST, TYP.
BRACED WALL PANEL
SINGLE-SOTRY
HOLD-DOWN
FORCE
-TOP STORY
HOLD DOWNS
ON SAME POST
OR STUD TOP
AND BOTTOM
CUMULATIVE
HOLD-DOWN
FORCE
-MIDDLE STORY
BRACED WALL PANEL
CUMULATIVE
HOLD-DOWN
FORCE
-BOTTOM STORY
HOLD DOWN
-SEE NOTE BELOW
WALL CONSTRUCTION
EXTENT OF TOP
STORY BRACED
WALL PANEL
EXTENT OF MIDDLE
STORY BRACED
WALL PANEL
EXTENT OF BOTTOM
STORY BRACED
WALL PANEL
GABLE END FRAMING
BRACED WALL PANEL
SINGLE-STORY HOLD-
DOWN FORCE -TOP
STORY
BRACED WALL PANEL
HOLD DOWN
-SEE NOTE BELOW
SINGLE-STORY
HOLD-DOWN FORCE
-MIDDLE STORY
BRACED WALL PANEL
SINGLE-STORY HOLD-
DOWN FORCE
-BOTTOM STORY
CUMULATIVE HOLD-
DOWN FORCE
-BOTTOM OF TWO
STORY
(a) Braced wall panels stacked (aligned story (b) Braced wall panels mixed stacked and not
to story) Use cumulative hold-down force. stacked. Use hold-down force as noted.
Note: Hold downs should be strap ties, tension ties, or other approved hold-down devices and shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
FIGURE R602.10.6.5
METHOD BV-WSP— WALL BRACING FOR DWELLINGS WITH STONE AND
WIASONRY VENEER IN SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORIES D„, D, and D 2
R602.1O.7 Ends of braced wall lines with continuous
sheathing. Each end of a braced wall line with continu-
ous sheathing shall have one of the conditions shown in
Figure R602. 10.7.
R602.10.8 Braced wall panel connections. Braced wall
panels shall be connected to floor framing or foundations
as follows:
1. Where joists are perpendicular to a braced wall
panel above or below, a rim joist, band joist or
blocking shall be provided along the entire length of
the braced wall panel in accordance with Figure
R602.10.8(l). Fastening of top and bottom wall
plates to framing, rim joist, band joist and/or block-
ing shall be in accordance with Table R602.3(l).
2. Where joists are parallel to a braced wall panel
above or below, a rim joist, end joist or other paral-
lel framing member shall be provided directly above
and below the braced wall panel in accordance with
Figure R602. 10.8(2). Where a parallel framing
member cannot be located directly above and below
the panel, full-depth blocking at 16-inch (406 mm)
spacing shall be provided between the parallel fram-
ing members to each side of the braced wall panel in
accordance with Figure R602. 10.8(2). Fastening of
blocking and wall plates shall be in accordance with
Table R602.3(l) and Figure R602.10.8(2).
3. Connections of braced wall panels to concrete or
masonry shall be in accordance with Section
R403.1.6.
R602.10.8.1 Braced wall panel connections for Seis-
mic Design Categories D , D, and D 2 . Braced wall
panels shall be fastened to required foundations in
accordance with Section R602.11.1, and top plate lap
splices shall be face-nailed with at least eight 16d nails
on each side of the splice.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
183
WALL CONSTRUCTION
-BRACED WALL PANEL AT
END OF BRACED WALL LINE
END CONDITION 1
CONTINUOUSLY SHEATHED
• BRACED WALL PANEL AT
END OF BRACED WALL LINE
END CONDITION 2
-48" MINIMUM BRACED WALL PANEL
AT END OF BRACED WALL LINE
END CONDITION 3
CONTINUOUSLY SHEATHED,
-FIRST BRACED
WALL PANEL
END CONDITION 5
CONTINUOUSLY SHEATHED
* SEE REQUIREMENTS
-FIRST BRACED
WALL PANEL
END CONDITION 4
Distance D:
REQUIREMENTS
Return panel: 24" for braced wall lines sheathed with
wood structural panels
32" for braced wall lines sheathed with
structural fiberboard
24" for braced wall lines sheathed with
wood structural panels
32" for braced wall lines sheathed with
structural fiberboard
Hold-down 800 lbs capacity fastened to the edge of the
device: braced wall panel closest to the corner and
to the foundation or floor framing below
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 4.45 N.
FIGURE R602.10.7
END CONDITIONS FOR BRACED WALL LINES WITH CONTINUOUS SHEATHING
184
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 6
WALL CONSTRUCTION
r- CONTINUOUS RIM FULL HEIGHT BLOCKING
/ OR BAND JOIST CONTINUOUS ALONG LENGTH /
OF BRACED WALL PANEL /
PERPENDICULAR FRAMING
8d @ 6" OO. ALONG
BRACED WALL PANEL
-BRACED WALL PANEL
^3-16d@ 16" O.C. ALONG
/ BRACED WALL PANEL
PERPENDICULAR FRAMING
.CONTINUOUS RIM
OR BAND JOIST
8d@ 6" O.C. ALONG
BRACED WALL PANEL
-BRACED WALL PANEL
^-3-ied® 16" O.C. ALONG
/ BRACED WALL PANEL
FULL HEIGHT BLOCKING
CONTINUOUS ALONG LENGTH
OF BRACED WALL PANEL
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R602. 10.8(1)
BRACED WALL PANEL CONNECTION WHEN PERPENDICULAR TO FLOOR/CEILING FRAMING
si
-CONTINUOUS FBM OR
END JOIST
8d@ 6" O.C. ALONG
BRACED WALL PANEL
-BRACED WALL PANEL
,-3-16(1 @ 16" O.C. ALONG
' BRACED WALL PANEL
ADDITIONAL FRAMING
MEMBER DIRECTLY ABOVE
BRACED WALL PAN EL
SSL
-CONTINUOUS RIM
OR END JOIST
8d@ 6" O.C. ALONG
BRACED WALL PANEL
-« — BRACED WALL PANEL
- .3-1 8d@ 16" O.C. ALONG
BRACED WALL PANEL
sin
w.
FULL HEIGHT BLOCKING
@ 16" O.C. ALONG
BRACED WALL PANEL
W
-TOE NAIL 3-8d
NAILS AT EACH
BLOCKING
MEMBER
-BRACED WALL PANEL
-346dATEACH
BLOCKING MEMBER
Li
V_ ADDITIONAL FRAMING
MEMBER DIRECTLY BELOW
BRACED WALL PANEL
\
2-16d NAILS
EACH SIDE
-FULL HEIGHT
BLOCKING® 16" O.C.
ALONG BRACED WALL
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R602.1 0.8(2)
BRACED WALL PANEL CONNECTION WHEN PARALLEL TO FLOOR/CEILING FRAMING
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
185
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R602.10.8.2 Connections to roof framing. Top plates
of exterior braced wall panels shall be attached to raf-
ters or roof trusses above in accordance with Table
R602.3(l) and this section. Where required by this sec-
tion, blocking between rafters or roof trusses shall be
attached to top plates of braced wall panels and to raf-
ters and roof trusses in accordance with Table
R602.3(l). A continuous band, rim, or header joist or
roof trass parallel to the braced wall panels shall be
permitted to replace the blocking required by this sec-
tion. Blocking shall not be required over openings in
continuously-sheathed braced wall lines. In addition to
the requirements of this section, lateral support shall be
provided for rafters and ceiling joists in accordance
with Section R802.8 and for trusses in accordance with
Section R802.10.3. Roof ventilation shall be provided
in accordance with Section R806. 1 .
1. For Seismic Design Categories A, B and C and
wind speeds less than 100 mph (45 m/s) where the
distance from the top of the braced wall panel to
the top of the rafters or roof trusses above is 9'/ 4
inches (235 mm) or less, blocking between rafters
or roof trasses shall not be required. Where the
distance from the top of the braced wall panel to
the top of the rafters or roof trusses above is
between 9'/ 4 inches (235 mm) and 15 7 4 inches
(387 mm), blocking between rafters or roof
trusses shall be provided above the braced wall
panel in accordance with Figure R602.10.8.2(l).
2. For Seismic Design Categories D , D, and D 2 or
wind speeds of 100 mph (45 m/s) or greater,
where the distance from the top of the braced
wall panel to the top of the rafters or roof trusses
is 15'/ 4 inches (387 mm) or less, blocking
between rafters or roof trusses shall be provided
above the braced wall panel in accordance with
Figure R602. 10.8.2(1).
3. Where the distance from the top of the braced
wall panel to the top of rafters or roof trusses
exceeds 15 V 4 inches (387 mm), the top plates of
the braced wall panel shall be connected to per-
pendicular rafters or roof trusses above in accor-
dance with one or more of the following
methods:
3.1.
3.2.
3.3.
3.4.
Soffit blocking panels constructed in
accordance with Figure R602.10.8.2(2);
Vertical blocking panels constructed in
accordance with Figure R602. 10.8.2(3);
Full-height engineered blocking panels
designed in accordance with the AF&PA
WFCM; or
Blocking, blocking panels, or other
methods of lateral load transfer designed
in accordance with accepted engineering
practice.
R602.10.9 Braced wall panel support. Braced wall
panel support shall be provided as follows:
1. Cantilevered floor joists complying with Section
R502.3.3 shall be permitted to support braced wall
panels.
2. Elevated post or pier foundations supporting braced
wall panels shall be designed in accordance with
accepted engineering practice.
3. Masonry stem walls with a length of 48 inches
(1219 mm) or less supporting braced wall panels
shall be reinforced in accordance with Figure
R602.10.9. Masonry stem walls with a length
greater than 48 inches (1219 mm) supporting braced
wall panels shall be constructed in accordance with
Section R403.1 Methods ABW and PFH shall not
be permitted to attach to masonry stem walls.
4. Concrete stem walls with a length of 48 inches
(1219 mm) or less, greater than 12 inches (305 mm)
tall and less than 6 inches (152 mm) thick shall have
reinforcement sized and located in accordance with
Figure R602. 10.9.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
■SOLID BLOCKING BETWEEN
RAFTERS ATTACHED TO TOP
PLATES WITH 8d @ 6" OC ALONG
LENGTH OF BRACED WALL PANEL
FIGURE R602.1 0.8.2(1)
BRACED WALL PANEL CONNECTION TO PERPENDICULAR RAFTERS
186
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
ROOF SHEATHING
EDGE NAILING PER
TABLE R602.3(1)
(TYP)
2x BLOCKING
BRACED WALL
PANEL
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Methods of bracing shall be as described in Section R602.10.4.
ROOF TRUSSES
PER R802.10
NAILING PER
TABLE R602.3(1)
PROVIDE VENTING
PER SECTION R806
(NOT SHOWN)
FIGURE R602.1 0.8.2(2)
BRACED WALL PANEL CONNECTION OPTION TO PERPENDICULAR RAFTERS OR ROOF TRUSSES
-ROOF SHEATHING
- EDGE NAILING PER
TABLE R602.3(1) (TYP)
- BRACING
-VENTING
KING
ROOF TRUSSES
PERR802.10
NAILING PER
TABLE R602.3(1)
( O SECTION
(£ \ ELEVATION
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Methods of bracing shall be as described in Section R602.10.4.
FIGURE R602.1 0.8.2(3)
BRACED WALL PANEL CONNECTION OPTION TO PERPENDICULAR RAFTERS OR ROOF TRUSSES
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
187
WALL CONSTRUCTION
48" OR LESS
48" OR LESS
,- BRACED WALL PANEL
* _ 1/2" ANC HOR BOLTS PER BRACED
WALL PANEL REQUIREMENTS
BOND BEAM WITH 1 -#4 BAR
. #4 BAR MIN.; FIELD BEND 6"
' EXTENSION INTO BOND BEAM
BRACED WALL PANEL
1/2" ANCHOR BOLTS PER
BRACED WALL PANEL
REQUIREMENTS
3" COVER -
SHORT STEM WALL REINFORCEMENT
- BRACED WALL PANEL
-BOND BEAM WITH 1-#4 BAR
5*8" THREADED RODS MAY BE
SUBSTITUTED FOR ANCHOR
BOLTS AND REBAR
L- MIN. 2" CUT W
n
-3" COVER ^- MIN. 2" CUT WASHERS
OPTIONAL STEM WALL REINFORCEMENT
NOTE' GROUT BOND BEAMS AND ALL CELLS WHICH CONTAIN
REBAR. THREADED RODS AND ANCHOR BOLTS
TYPICAL STEM WALL SECTION
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R602.10.9
MASONRY STEM WALLS SUPPORTING BRACED WALL PANELS
R602.10.9.1 Braced wall panel support for Seismic
Design Category D 2 . In one-story buildings located in
Seismic Design Category D 2 , braced wall panels shall
be supported on continuous foundations at intervals not
exceeding 50 feet (15 240 mm). In two-story buildings
located in Seismic Design Category D 2 , all braced wall
panels shall be supported on continuous foundations.
Exception: Two-story buildings shall be permitted
to have interior braced wall panels supported on
continuous foundations at intervals not exceeding 50
feet (15 240 mm) provided that:
1. The height of cripple walls does not exceed 4
feet (1219 mm).
2. First-floor braced wall panels are supported
on doubled floor joists, continuous blocking or
floor beams.
3. The distance between bracing lines does not
exceed twice the building width measured par-
allel to the braced wall line.
R602.10.10 Panel joints. All vertical joints of panel
sheathing shall occur over, and be fastened to, common
studs. Horizontal joints in braced wall panels shall occur
over, and be fastened to, common blocking of a minimum
1 7 2 inch (38 mm) thickness.
Exceptions:
1 . Vertical joints of panel sheathing shall be permit-
ted to occur over double studs, where adjoining
panel edges are attached to separate studs with
the required panel edge fastening schedule, and
the adjacent studs are attached together with two
rows of lOd box nails [3 inches by 0.128 inch
(76.2 mm by 3.25 mm)] at 10 inches o.c. (254
mm).
188
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
2. Blocking at horizontal joints shall not be required
in wall segments that are not counted as braced
wall panels.
3. Where the bracing length provided is at least
twice the minimum length required by Table
R602. 10.3(1) and Table R602. 10.3(3) blocking at
horizontal joints shall not be required in braced
wall panels constructed using Methods WSP,
SFB, GB.PBSorHPS.
4. When Method GB panels are installed horizon-
tally, blocking of horizontal joints is not required.
R602.10.ll Cripple wall bracing. Cripple walls shall be
constructed in accordance with Section R602.9 and braced
in accordance with this section. Cripple walls shall be
braced with the length and method of bracing used for the
wall above in accordance with Tables R602. 10.3(1) and
R602. 10.3(3), and the applicable adjustment factors in
Table R602.10.3(2) or R602.10.3(4), repspectivley, except
that the length of cripple wall bracing shall be multiplied
by a factor of 1.15. The distance between adjacent edges
of braced wall panels shall be reduced from 20 feet (6096
mm) to 14 feet (4267 mm).
R602.1 0.11.1 Cripple wall bracing for Seismic
Design Categories D and Dj and townhouses in
Seismic Design Category C. In addition to the require-
ments in Section R602.10.ll, the distance between
adjacent edges of braced wall panels for cripple walls
along a braced wall line shall be 14 feet (4267 mm)
maximum.
Where braced wall lines at interior walls are not
supported on a continuous foundation below, the adja-
cent parallel cripple walls, where provided, shall be
braced with Method WSP or Method CS-WSP in
accordance with Section R602.10.4. The length of brac-
ing required in accordance with Table R602. 10.3(3) for
the cripple walls shall be multiplied by 1 .5. Where the
cripple walls do not have sufficient length to provide
the required bracing, the spacing of panel edge fasten-
ers shall be reduced to 4 inches (102 mm) on center and
the required bracing length adjusted by 0.7. If the
required length can still not be provided, the cripple
wall shall be designed in accordance with accepted
engineering practice.
R602.10.11.2 Cripple wall bracing for Seismic
Design Category D 2 . In Seismic Design Category D 2 ,
cripple walls shall be braced in accordance with Tables
R602.10.3(3) and R602.10.3(4).
R602.10.11.3 Redesignation of cripple walls. Where
all cripple wall segments along a braced wall line do
not exceed 48 inches (1219 mm) in height, the cripple
walls shall be permitted to be redesignated as a first-
story wall for purposes of determining wall bracing
requirements. Where any cripple wall segment in a
braced wall line exceeds 48 inches (1219 mm) in
height, the entire cripple wall shall be counted as an
additional story. If the cripple walls are redesignated,
the stories above the redesignated story shall be
counted as the second and third stories, respectively.
R602.1! Wall anchorage. Braced wall line sills shall be
anchored to concrete or masonry foundations in accordance
with Sections R403.1 .6 and R602.1 1.1.
R602.11.1 Wall anchorage for all buildings in Seismic
Design Categories D , D, and D 2 and townhouses in
Seismic Design Category C. Plate washers, a minimum
of 0.229 inch by 3 inches by 3 inches (5.8 mm by 76 mm
by 76 mm) in size, shall be provided between the founda-
tion sill plate and the nut except where approved anchor
WHERE FOOTING SECTION "A" IS MORE THAN 8 FT
PROVIDE METAL TIE 16 GA BY 1 .5 BY4 FT MIN. EACH
SIOEOFSPLICEW/'8-16d COMMON NAILS.
2x SILL PLATE
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
Note: Where footing Section "A" is less than 8 feet long in a 25-foot-long wall, install bracing at cripple stud wall.
FIGURE R602.11.2
STEPPED FOUNDATION CONSTRUCTION
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
189
WALL CONSTRUCTION
straps are used. The hole in the plate washer is permitted
to be diagonally slotted with a width of up to 3 / 16 inch (5
mm) larger than the bolt diameter and a slot length not to
exceed 1% inches (44 mm), provided a standard cut
washer is placed between the plate washer and the nut.
R602.11.2 Stepped foundations in Seismic Design Cate-
gories D , D, and D 2 . In all buildings located in Seismic
Design Categories D , D, or D 2 , where the height of a
required braced wall line that extends from foundation to
floor above varies more than 4 feet (1219 mm), the braced
wall line shall be constructed in accordance with the fol-
lowing:
1. Where the lowest floor framing rests directly on a
sill bolted to a foundation not less than 8 feet (2440
mm) in length along a line of bracing, the line shall
be considered as braced. The double plate of the
cripple stud wall beyond the segment of footing that
extends to the lowest framed floor shall be spliced
by extending the upper top plate a minimum of 4
feet (1219 mm) along the foundation. Anchor bolts
shall be located a maximum of 1 foot and 3 feet (305
and 914 mm) from the step in the foundation. See
Figure R602. 11.2.
2. Where cripple walls occur between the top of the
foundation and the lowest floor framing, the bracing
requirements of Sections R602.10.ll, R602.10.ll. 1
and R602.10.11.2 shall apply.
3. Where only the bottom of the foundation is stepped
and the lowest floor framing rests directly on a sill
bolted to the foundations, the requirements of Sec-
tions R403. 1.6 and R602.ll. 1 shall apply.
R602.12 Simplified wall bracing. Buildings meeting all of
the conditions listed in items 1-8 shall be permitted to be
braced in accordance with this section as an alternative to the
requirements of Section R602. 1 0. The entire building shall
be braced in accordance with this section; the use of other
bracing provisions of R602.10, except as specified herein,
shall not be permitted.
1. There shall be no more than two stories above the top
of a concrete or masonry foundation or basement wall.
Permanent wood foundations shall not be permitted.
2. Floors shall not cantilever more than 24 inches (607
mm) beyond the foundation or bearing wall below.
3. Wall height shall not be greater than 10 feet (2743
mm).
4. The building shall have a roof eave-to-ridge height of
15 feet (4572 mm) or less.
5. All exterior walls shall have gypsum board with a min-
7.
imum thickness of
interior side
R702.3.5.
2 inch (12.7 mm) installed on the
fastened in accordance with Table
6. The structure shall be located where the basic wind
speed is less than or equal to 90 mph (40 m/s), and the
Exposure Category is A or B.
7. The structure shall be located in Seismic Design Cate-
gory A, B or C for detached one- and two-family dwell-
ings or Seismic Design Category A or B for
townhouses.
8. Cripple walls shall not be permitted in two-story build-
ings.
R602.12.1 Circumscribed rectangle. The bracing
required for each building shall be determined by circum-
scribing a rectangle around the entire building on each
floor as shown in Figure R602.12.1. The rectangle shall
surround all enclosed offsets and projections such as sun-
rooms and attached garages. Open structures, such as car-
ports and decks, shall be permitted to be excluded. The
rectangle shall have no side greater than 60 feet (18 288
mm), and the ratio between the long side and short side
shall be a maximum of 3: 1 .
-LONG SIDE-
,
t
f T -
TYPICAL
WALL
/
CORNER
/
J
/
LU
/
s. !
O 1
X !
w 1
WALL BETWEEN CORNERS
~~-^
^~^-^^
'
^*
1
v— CIRCUMSCRIBING RECTANGLE
1
FIRST FLOOR PLAN
CIRCUMSCRIBING RECTANGLE j
L
SECOND FLOOR PLAN
FIGURE R602.12.1
RECTANGLE CIRCUMSCRIBING AN ENCLOSED BUILDING
190
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R602.12.2 Sheathing materials. The following sheathing
materials installed on the exterior side of exterior walls
shall be used to construct a bracing unit as defined in Sec-
tion R602.12.3. Mixing materials is prohibited.
1. Wood structural panels with a minimum thickness
of 3 / 8 inch (9.5 mm) fastened in accordance with
Table R602.3(3).
2. Structural fiberboard sheathing with a minimum
thickness of 7 2 inch (12.7 mm) fastened in accor-
dance with Table R602.3(l ).
R602.12.3 Bracing unit. A bracing unit shall be a full-
height sheathed segment of the exterior wall with no open-
ings or vertical or horizontal offsets and a minimum length
as specified herein. Interior walls shall not contribute
toward the amount of required bracing. Mixing of Items 1
and 2 is prohibited on the same story.
1. Where all framed portions of all exterior walls are
sheathed in accordance with Section R602.12.2,
including wall areas between bracing units, above
and below openings and on gable end walls, the
minimum length of a bracing unit shall be 3 feet
(914 mm).
2. Where the exterior walls are braced with sheathing
panels in accordance with Section R602.12.2 and
areas between bracing units are covered with other
materials, the minimum length of a bracing unit
shall be 4 feet (1219 mm).
R602.12.3.1 Multiple bracing units. Segments of
wall compliant with Section R602. 1 2.3 and longer than
the minimum bracing unit length shall be considered as
multiple bracing units. The number of bracing units
shall be determined by dividing the wall segment
length by the minimum bracing unit length. Full-height
sheathed segments of wall narrower than the minimum
bracing unit length shall not contribute toward a brac-
ing unit except as specified in Section R602.12.6.
R602.12.4 Number of bracing units. Each side of the
circumscribed rectangle, as shown in Figure R602.12.1,
shall have, at a minimum, the number of bracing units in
accordance with Table R602.12.4 placed on the parallel
exterior walls facing the side of the rectangle. Bracing
units shall then be placed using the distribution require-
ments specified in Section R602.12.5.
R602.12.5 Distribution of bracing units. The placement
of bracing units on exterior walls shall meet all of the fol-
lowing requirements as shown in Figure R602.12.5.
1. A bracing unit shall begin no more than 12 feet
(3658 mm) from any wall corner.
2. The distance between adjacent edges of bracing
units shall be no greater than 20 feet (6096 mm).
3. Segments of wall greater than 8 feet (2438 mm) in
length shall have a minimum of one bracing unit.
R602.12.6 Narrow panels. The bracing methods refer-
enced in Section R602.10 and specified in Sections
R602.12.6.1 through R602.12.6.3 shall be permitted when
using simplified wall bracing.
R602.12.6.1 Method CS-G. Braced wall panels con-
structed as Method CS-G in accordance with Tables
R602.10.4 and R602.10.5 shall be permitted for one-
story garages when all framed portions of all exterior
walls are sheathed with wood structural panels. Each
CS-G panel shall be equivalent to 0.5 of a bracing unit.
Segments of wall which include a Method CS-G panel
shall meet the requirements of Section R602. 10.4.2.
R602. 12.6.2 Method CS-PF. Braced wall panels con-
structed as Method CS-PF in accordance with Section
R602. 10.6.4 shall be permitted when all framed por-
TABLE R602.12.4
MINIMUM NUMBER OF BRACING UNITS ON EACH SIDE OF THE CIRCUMSCRIBED RECTANGLE
EAVE-TO-RIDGE HEIGHT
(feet)
MINIMUM NUMBER OF BRACING
UNITS ON EACH LONG SIDE 8 °
MINIMUM NUMBER OF BRACING
UNITS ON EACH SHORT SIDE 8 "
STORY LEVEL
Length of short side (feet)
Length of long side (feet) c
10
20
30
40
50
60
10
20
30
40
50
60
10
1
2
2
2
3
3
1
2
2
2
3
3
A
/\
2
3
3
4
5
6
2
3
3
4
5
6
15
1
2
3
3
4
4
1
2
3
3
4
4
/\
i i
/\
2
3
4
5
6
7
2
3
4
5
6
7
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Interpolation shall not be permitted.
b. Cripple walls or wood-framed basement walls in a walk-out condition of a one-story structure shall be designed as the first floor of a two-story house.
c. Actual lengths of the sides of the circumscribed rectangle shall be rounded to the next highest unit of 1 when using this table.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE" 8
191
WALL CONSTRUCTION
tions of all exterior walls are sheathed with wood struc-
tural panels. Each CS-PF panel shall equal 0.5 bracing
units. A maximum of four CS-PF panels shall be per-
mitted on all segments of walls parallel to each side of
the circumscribed rectangle. Segments of wall which
include a Method CS-PF panel shall meet the require-
ments of Section R602. 10.4.2.
R602.12.6.3 Methods PFH and PFG. Braced wall-
panels constructed as Method PFH and PFG shall be
permitted when bracing units are constructed using
wood structural panels. Each PFH panel shall equal
one bracing unit and each PFG panel shall be equal to
0.75 bracing units.
R602.12.7 Lateral support. For bracing units located
along the eaves, the vertical distance from the outside edge
of the top wall plate to the roof sheathing above shall not
exceed 9.25 inches (235 mm) at the location of a bracing
unit unless lateral support is provided in accordance with
Section R602. 10.8.2.
R602.12.8 Stem walls. Masonry stem walls with a height
and length of 48 inches (1219 mm) or less supporting a
bracing unit or a Method CS-G, CS-PF or PFG braced
wall panel shall be constructed in accordance with Figure
R602.10.9. Concrete stem walls with a length of 48 inches
(1219 mm) or less, greater than 12 inches (305 mm) tall
and less than 6 inches (152 mm) thick shall be reinforced
sized and located in accordance with Figure R602.10.9.
SECTION R603
STEEL WALL FRAMING
R603.1 General. Elements shall be straight and free of any
defects that would significantly affect structural performance.
Cold-formed steel wall framing members shall comply with
the requirements of this section.
R603.1.1 Applicability limits. The provisions of this sec-
tion shall control the construction of exterior cold-formed
steel wall framing and interior load-bearing cold-formed
steel wall framing for buildings not more than 60 feet (18
288 mm) long perpendicular to the joist or truss span, not
more than 40 feet (12 192 mm) wide parallel to the joist or
truss span, and less than or equal to three stories above
grade plane. All exterior walls installed in accordance
with the provisions of this section shall be considered as
load-bearing walls. Cold-formed steel walls constructed in
accordance with the provisions of this section shall be lim-
ited to sites subjected to a maximum design wind speed of
1 10 miles per hour (49 m/s) Exposure B or C and a maxi-
mum ground snow load of 70 pounds per square foot (3.35
kPa).
R603.1.2 In-line framing. Load-bearing cold-formed
steel studs constructed in accordance with Section R603
shall be located in-line with joists, trusses and rafters in
accordance with Figure R603.1.2 and the tolerances speci-
fied as follows:
1. The maximum tolerance shall be 3 / 4 inch (19 mm)
between the centerline of the horizontal framing
member and the centerline of the vertical framing
member.
2. Where the centerline of the horizontal framing
member and bearing stiffener are located to one side
of the centerline of the vertical framing member, the
maximum tolerance shall be V 8 inch (3 mm) between
the web of the horizontal framing member and the
edge of the vertical framing member.
R603.2 Structural framing. Load-bearing cold-formed steel
wall framing members shall comply with Figure R603.2(l)
and with the dimensional and minimum thickness require-
ments specified in Tables R603.2(l) and R603.2(2). Tracks
shall comply with Figure R603.2(2) and shall have a mini-
mum flange width of 1 7 4 inches (32 mm).
R603.2.1 Material. Load-bearing cold-formed steel fram-
ing members shall be cold-formed to shape from structural
quality sheet steel complying with the requirements of one
of the following:
1. ASTM A 653: Grades 33 and 50 (Class 1 and 3).
2. ASTM A 792: Grades 33 and 50A.
3. ASTM A 1003: Structural Grades 33 Type H, and
50 Type H.
WALL-
CORNER
BRACING
UNIT
MULTIPLE BRACING UNITS -
EQUAL LENGTH DIVIDED BY A
BRACING UNITS WITH AREAS BETWEEN
COVERED WITH OTHER MATERIALS
20 FT
MAX
WALL -
CORNER
3 FT.
12FT_
MAX
-WALL
CORNER
BRACING
UNIT
MULTIPLE BRACING UNITS-
EQUAL LENGTH DIVIDED BY 3
BRACING UNITS WITH ALL FRAMED
PORTIONS OF WALL SHEATHED
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R602.12.5
BRACING UNIT DISTRIBUTION
192
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
HORIZONTAL
FRAMING
MEMBER
'-s^-/— BEARING STIFFENER
-TRACK
STUD
£STUD
HORIZONTAL HORIZONTAL
C_ FRAMING C_ FRAMING
MAX-
MEMBER
jWz
MEMBER
w
MAX.
VERTICAL
<t FRAMING
MEMBER
VERTICAL
<t FRAMING
MEMBER
HORIZONTAL
FRAMING
MEMBER
BEARING STIFFENER
TRACK
STUD
C BEARING
STIFFENER
HORIZONTAL
FRAMING
MEMBER
^
-V MAX.
FROM WEB OF
HORIZONTAL
FRAMING
MEMBER TO
EDGE OF
VERTICAL
FRAMING
MEMBER
- 3 /4"
MAX.
VERTICAL
FRAMING
MEMBER
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 ram,
FIGURE R603.1.2
IN-LINE FRAMING
FLANGE
WEB
DEPTH OF WEB
(OUTSIDE TO
OUTSIDE)
WEB.
FLANGE
SIZE OF TRACK
(INSIDE TO INSIDE)
FIGURE R603.2(1)
C-SHAPED SECTION
FIGURE R603.2(2)
TRACK SECTION
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
193
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.2(1)
LOAD-BEARING COLD-FORMED STEEL STUD SIZES
MEMBER
DESIGNATION"
WEB DEPTH
(inches)
MINIMUM FLANGE WIDTH
(inches)
MAXIMUM FLANGE WIDTH
(inches)
MINIMUM LIP SIZE
(inch)
350SI62-t
3.5
1.625
2
0.5
550S162-t
5.5
1.625
2
0.5
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm; 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
a The member designation is defined by the first number representing the member depth in hundredths of an inch "S" representing a stud or joist member, the
second number representing the flange width in hundredths of an inch, and the letter "t" shall be a number representing the minimum base metal thickness in
mils [See Table R603.2(2)].
TABLE R603.2(2)
MINIMUM THICKNESS OF COLD-FORMED STEEL MEMBERS
DESIGNATION THICKNESS
(mils)
33
43
54
68
97
MINIMUM BASE STEEL THICKNESS
(inch)
0.0329
0.0428
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
R603.2.2 Identification. Load-bearing cold-formed steel
framing members shall have a legible label, stencil, stamp
or embossment with the following information as a mini-
mum:
1. Manufacturer's identification.
2. Minimum base steel thickness in inches (mm).
3. Minimum coating designation.
4. Minimum yield strength, in kips per square inch
(ksi) (MPa).
R603.2.3 Corrosion protection. Load-bearing cold-
formed steel framing shall have a metallic coating comply-
ing with ASTM A 1003 and one of the following:
1. A minimum of G 60 in accordance with ASTM A
653.
2. A minimum of AZ 50 in accordance with ASTM A
792.
R603.2.4 Fastening requirements. Screws for steel-to-
steel connections shall be installed with a minimum edge
distance and center-to-center spacing of V 2 inch (12.7
mm), shall be self-drilling tapping and shall conform to
ASTM C 1513. Structural sheathing shall be attached to
cold-formed steel studs with minimum No. 8 self-drilling
tapping screws that conform to ASTM C 1513. Screws for
attaching structural sheathing to cold-formed steel wall
framing shall have a minimum head diameter of 0.292
inch (7.4 mm) with countersunk heads and shall be
installed with a minimum edge distance of 3 / 8 inch (9.5
mm). Gypsum board shall be attached to cold-formed steel
wall framing with minimum No. 6 screws conforming to
ASTM C 954 or ASTM C 1513 with a bugle head style
and shall be installed in accordance with Section R702.
For all connections, screws shall extend through the steel a
minimum of three exposed threads. All fasteners shall
have rust inhibitive coating suitable for the installation in
0.0538
0.0677
0.0966
which they are being used, or be manufactured from mate-
rial not susceptible to corrosion.
Where No. 8 screws are specified in a steel-to-steel
connection, the required number of screws in the connec-
tion is permitted to be reduced in accordance with the
reduction factors in Table R603.2.4, when larger screws
are used or when one of the sheets of steel being con-
nected is thicker than 33 mils (0.84 mm). When applying
the reduction factor, the resulting number of screws shall
be rounded up.
TABLE R603.2.4
SCREW SUBSTITUTION FACTOR
SCREW SIZE
THINNEST CONNECTED STEEL SHEET (mils)
33
43
#8
L.O
0.67
#10
0.93
0.62
#12
0.86
0.56
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
R603.2.5 Web holes, web hole reinforcing and web hole
patching. Web holes, web hole reinforcing and web hole
patching shall be in accordance with this section.
R603.2.5.1 Web holes. Web holes in wall studs and
other structural members shall comply with all of the
following conditions:
1. Holes shall conform to Figure R603.2.5.1;
2. Holes shall be permitted only along the centerline
of the web of the framing member;
3. Holes shall have a center-to-center spacing of not
less than 24 inches (610 mm);
4. Holes shall have a web hole width not greater
than 0.5 times the member depth, or l'/ 2 inches
(38 mm);
194
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
5. Holes shall have a web hole length not exceeding
4'/ 2 inches (114 mm); and
6. Holes shall have a minimum distance between
the edge of the bearing surface and the edge of
the web hole of not less than 10 inches (254 mm).
Framing members with web holes not conforming
to the above requirements shall be reinforced in accor-
dance with Section R603.2.5.2, patched in accordance
with Section R603.2.5.3 or designed in accordance with
accepted engineering practice.
PENETRATION
(HOLE, PUNCHOUT)
1H"MAX.
STUD & PUNCHOUT
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R603.2.5.1
WEB HOLES
R603.2.5.2 Web hole reinforcing. Web holes in gable
endwall studs not conforming to the requirements of
Section R603. 2.5.1 shall be permitted to be reinforced
if the hole is located fully within the center 40 percent
of the span and the depth and length of the hole does
not exceed 65 percent of the flat width of the web. The
reinforcing shall be a steel plate or C-shape section
with a hole that does not exceed the web hole size limi-
tations of Section R603.2.5.1 for the member being
reinforced. The steel reinforcing shall be the same
thickness as the receiving member and shall extend at
least 1 inch (25.4 mm) beyond all edges of the hole.
The steel reinforcing shall be fastened to the web of the
receiving member with No.8 screws spaced no more
than 1 inch (25.4 mm) center- to-center along the edges
of the patch with minimum edge distance of V 2 inch
(12.7 mm).
R603.2.5.3 Hole patching. Web holes in wall studs
and other structural members not conforming to the
requirements in Section R603.2.5.1 shall be permitted
to be patched in accordance with either of the following
methods:
1. Framing members shall be replaced or designed
in accordance with accepted engineering practice
when web holes exceed the following size limits:
1.1.
1.2.
The depth of the hole, measured across
the web, exceeds 70 percent of the flat
width of the web; or
2.
The length of the hole measured along
the web exceeds 10 inches (254 mm) or
the depth of the web, whichever is
greater.
Web holes not exceeding the dimensional
requirements in Section R603.2.5.3, Item 1 shall
be patched with a solid steel plate, stud section or
track section in accordance with Figure
R603.2.5.3. The steel patch shall, as a minimum,
be the same thickness as the receiving member
and shall extend at least 1 inch (25.4 mm) beyond
all edges of the hole. The steel patch shall be fas-
tened to the web of the receiving member with
No. 8 screws spaced no more than 1 inch (25.4
mm) center-to-center along the edges of the patch
with a minimum edge distance of 7 2 inch (12.7
mm).
STUD
NO. 8 SCREWS
SPACEOAT1"O.C.
(TYP)
SOLID STEEL PLATE,
C-SHAPE OR TRACK,
MIN. THICKNESS AS STUD
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R603.2.5.3
STUD WEB HOLE PATCH
R603.3 Wall construction. All exterior cold-formed steel
framed walls and interior load-bearing cold-formed steel
framed walls shall be constructed in accordance with the pro-
visions of this section.
R603.3.1 Wall to foundation or floor connection. Cold-
formed steel framed walls shall be anchored to founda-
tions or floors in accordance with Table R603.3.1 and Fig-
ure R603.3.1(l), R603.3.1(2) orR603.3.1(3). Anchor bolts
shall be located not more than 12 inches (305 mm) from
corners or the termination of bottom tracks. Anchor bolts
shall extend a minimum of 15 inches (381 mm) into
masonry or 7 inches (178 mm) into concrete. Foundation
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 18
195
WALL CONSTRUCTION
anchor straps shall be permitted, in lieu of anchor bolts, if
spaced as required to provide equivalent anchorage to the
required anchor bolts and installed in accordance with
manufacturer's requirements.
R603.3.1.1 Gable endwalls. Gable endwalls with
heights greater than 10 feet (3048 mm) shall be
anchored to foundations or floors in accordance with
Tables R603.3. 1.1(1) or R603.3. 1.1(2).
R603.3.2 Minimum stud sizes. Cold-formed steel walls
shall be constructed in accordance with Figure
R603.3.1(l), R603.3.1(2) or R603.3.1(3), as applicable.
Exterior wall stud size and thickness shall be determined
in accordance with the limits set forth in Tables
R603.3.2(2) through R603.3.2(31). Interior load-bearing
wall stud size and thickness shall be determined in accor-
dance with the limits set forth in Tables R603. 3.2(2)
through R603.3.2(31) based upon an 85 miles per hour (38
m/s) Exposure A/B wind value and the building width,
stud spacing and snow load, as appropriate. Fastening
requirements shall be in accordance with Section R603.2.4
and Table R603.3.2(l). Top and bottom tracks shall have
the same minimum thickness as the wall studs.
Exterior wall studs shall be permitted to be reduced to
the next thinner size, as shown in Tables R603. 3.2(2)
TABLE R603.3.1
WALL TO FOUNDATION OR FLOOR CONNECTION REQUIREMENTS 3 b
FRAMING
CONDITION
WIND SPEED (MPH) AND EXPOSURE
85 B
90 B
100 B
85 C
110B
90 C
100 C
<110C
Wall bottom track to
floor per Figure
R603. 3.1(1)
1-No. 8 screw at
12" o.c.
1-No. 8 screw at
12" o.c.
1-No. 8 screw at
1 2" o.c.
1-No. 8 screw at
12" o.c.
2-No. 8 screws at
1 2" o.c.
2 No. 8 screws at
12" o.c.
Wall bottom track to
foundation per Figure
R603. 3.1(2)"
'/," minimum
diameter anchor
bolt at 6" o.c.
'//' minimum
diameter anchor
bolt at 6" o.c.
V 2 " minimum
diameter anchor
bolt at 4" o.c.
7 2 " minimum
diameter anchor
bolt at 4" o.c.
V 2 " minimum
diameter anchor
bolt at 4" o.c.
'/," minimum
diameter anchor
bolt at 4" o.c
Wall bottom track to
wood sill per Figure
R603.3.1(3)
Steel plate spaced
at 4" o.c, with 4-
No. 8 screws and
4-10dor6-8d
common nails
Steel plate spaced
at 4" o.c, with 4-
No. 8 screws and
4-10dor6-8d
common nails
Steel plate spaced
at 3" o.c, with 4-
No. 8 screws and
4-10dor6-8d
common nails
Steel plate spaced
at 3" o.c, with 4-
No. 8 screws and
4-10dor6-8d
common nails
Steel plate spaced
at 2" o.c, with 4-
No. 8 screws and
4-10dor6-8d
common nails
Steel plate spaced
at 2" o.c, with 4-
No. 8 screws and
4-10dor6-8d
common nails
Wind uplift connector
strength to 16" stud
spacing 4 '
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
65 lb per foot of
wall length
Wind uplift connector
strength for 24" stud
spacing
NR
NR
NR
NR
NR
100 lb per foot of
wall length
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, I foot = 304.8 mm, I pound = 4.45 N.
a. Anchor bolts are to be located not more than 12 inches from corners or the termination of bottom tracks (e.g., at door openings or corners). Bolls are to extend
a minimum of 15 inches into masonry or 7 inches into concrete.
b. All screw sizes shown are minimum.
c. NR = uplift connector not required.
d. Foundation anchor straps are permitted in place of anchor bolts, if spaced as required to provide equivalent anchorage to the required anchor bolts and
installed in accordance with manufacturer's requirements.
TABLE R603.3.1. 1(1)
GABLE ENDWALLTO FLOOR CONNECTION REQUIREMENTS"' bc
BASIC WIND SPEED
(mph)
WALL BOTTOM TRACK TO FLOOR JOIST OR TRACK CONNECTION
Exposure
Stud height, h (feet)
B
c
10 < /J< 14
14<h<18
18<h<22
85
—
1-No. 8 screw® 12" o.c.
1-No. 8 screw @ 12" o.c.
1-No. 8 screw @ 12" o.c.
90
—
1 -No. 8 screw @ 1 2" o.c.
1-No. 8 screw @ 12" o.c.
1-No. 8 screw @ 12" o.c.
100
85
1-No. 8 screw @ 12" o.c.
1-No. 8 screw @ 12" o.c.
1-No. 8 screw @ 12" o.c.
110
90
1-No. 8 screw @ 12" o.c.
1-No. 8 screw® 12" o.c
2-No. 8 screws @ 12" o.c.
—
100
1-No. 8 screw @ 12" o.c.
2-No. 8 screws @ 12" o.c.
1-No. 8 screw @ 8" o.c.
—
110
2-No. 8 screws @ 12" o.c.
1-No. 8 screw @ 8" o.c.
2-No. 8 screws @ 8" o.c.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Refer to Table R603.3. 1 . 1 (2) for gable endwall bottom track to foundation connections.
b. Where attachment is not given, special design is required.
c. Stud height, ft, is measured from wall bottom track to wall top track or brace connection height.
196
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
through R603.3.2(31), but not less than 33 mils (0.84
mm), where both of the following conditions exist:
1. Minimum of 7 2 inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board is
installed and fastened in accordance with Section
R702 on the interior surface.
2. Wood structural sheathing panels of minimum 7 / l6 -
inch-thick (11 mm) oriented strand board or l5 / 32 -
inch-thick (12 mm) plywood is installed and fas-
tened in accordance with Section R603.9.1 and
Table R603.3.2(l) on the outside surface.
Interior load- bearing walls shall be permitted to be
reduced to the next thinner size, as shown in Tables
R603.3.2(2) through R603.3.2(31), but not less than 33
WALL CONSTRUCTION
mils (0.84 mm), where a minimum of 7 2 -inch (12.7
mm) gypsum board is installed and fastened in accor-
dance with Section R702 on both sides of the wall. The
tabulated stud thickness for load- bearing walls shall be
used when the attic load is 10 pounds per square feet
(480 Pa) or less. A limited attic storage load of 20
pounds per square feet (960 Pa) shall be permitted pro-
vided that the next higher snow load column is used to
select the stud size from Tables R603.3.2(2) through
R603.3.2(31).
For two-story buildings, the tabulated stud thickness
for walls supporting one floor, roof and ceiling shall be
used when second floor live load is 30 pounds per
TABLE R603.3.1.1(2)
GABLE ENDWALL BOTTOM TRACK TO FOUNDATION CONNECTION REQUIREMENTS"' "•'
BASIC WIND SPEED
(mph)
MINIMUM SPACING FOR 7 2 -INCH-DIAMETER ANCHOR BOLTS"
Exposure
Stud height, h (feet)
B
c
10 < ft< 14
14<h<18
18 <h< 22
85
—
6'- 0" o.c.
6'- 0" o.c.
6'- 0" o.c.
90
—
6'- 0" o.c.
5'- 7" o.c.
6'- 0" o.c.
100
85
5'- 10" o.c.
6'- 0" o.c.
6'- 0" o.c.
110
90
4'- 10" o.c.
5'- 6" o.c.
6'- 0" o.c.
—
100
4'- 1" o.c.
6'-0"o.c.
6'- 0" o.c.
—
110
5'- 1" o.c.
6'- 0" o.c.
5'- 2" o.c.
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Refer to Table R603.3.1 .1 (1) for gable endwall bottom track to floor joist or track connection connections.
b. Where attachment is not given, special design is required.
c. Stud height, h, is measured from wall bottom track to wall top track or brace connection height.
d. Foundation anchor straps are permitted in place of anchor bolts if spaced as required to provide equivalent anchorage to the required anchor bolts and
installed in accordance with manufacturer's requirements.
STRUCTURAL STEEL STUD
FLOOR JOIST-
NO. 8 SCREWS SPACED
PER TABLE R603.3.1
STRUCTURAL STUD
FIGURE R603.3.1(1)
WALL TO FLOOR CONNECTION
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
197
WALL CONSTRUCTION
square feet (1440 Pa). Second floor live loads of 40 psf
(1920 pounds per square feet) shall be permitted pro-
vided that the next higher snow load column is used to
select the stud size from Tables R603.3.2(2) through
R603. 3.2(21).
For three-story buildings, the tabulated stud thick-
ness for walls supporting one or two floors, roof and
ceiling shall be used when the third floor live load is 30
pounds per square feet (1440 Pa). Third floor live loads
of 40 pounds per square feet (1920 Pa) shall be permit-
ted provided that the next higher snow load column is
used to select the stud size from Tables R603.3.2(22)
through R603. 3. 2(31).
STUD
TRACK
NO. 8SCREWTHROUGH
EACH FLANGE
4 NO. 8 SCREWS THROUGH
EACH FLANGE
STUD BLOCKING INSIDE WALL TRACK
(MINIMUM THICKNESS OF STUD)
ANCHOR BOLT OR OTHER CONNECTION
AS REQUIRED
FOUNDATION OR SLAB ON GRADE
SILL SEALER AS REQUIRED
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R603.3. 1(2)
WALL TO FOUNDATION CONNECTION
MINIMUM 3"x4"x 33 MIL
METAL PLATE
4-1 Od OR 6-8d COMMON NAIL
NO. 8 SCREWTHROUGH EACH FLANGE
MINIMUM 4 NO. 8 SCREWS
ANCHOR BOLT THROUGH WOOD SILL
OR OTHER CONNECTION AS REQUIRED
FOUNDATION OR SLAB ON GRADE
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, I inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R603.3.1(3)
WALL TO WOOD SILL CONNECTION
198
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(1)
WALL FASTENING SCHEDULE 3
DESCRIPTION OF BUILDING
ELEMENT
Floor joist to track of load-bearing wall
Wall stud to top or bottom track
Structural sheathing to wall studs
Roof framing to wall
NUMBER AND SIZE OF
FASTENERS"
2-No. 8 screws
2-No. 8 screws
No. 8 screws'"
SPACING OF FASTENERS
Each joist
Each end of stud, one per flange
6" o.c. on edges and 12" o.c. at intermediate
supports
Approved design or tie down in accordance with Section R802.1 1 .
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
a. All screw sizes shown are minimum.
b. Screws for attachment of structural sheathing panels are to be bugle-head, flat-head, or similar head styles with a minimum head diameter of 0.29 inch.
TABLE R603.3.2(2)
24-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ROOF AND CEILING ONLY abc
33 KRI RTFFI
WIND
SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp.C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
90
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
100
mph
85
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
110 mph
90
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
—
100
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
—
110
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s. 1 pound per square foot = 0479 kPa
1 Ksi = 1 ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 1 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
199
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(3)
24-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ROOF AND CEILING ONLY abc
50 KSI STEEL
1
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
WIND SPEED
STUD
MEMBER „„„„.„.,-
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
SIZE
(inches)
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85 mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
90mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
100 mph
85
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
1 10 mph
90
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
—
100
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
—
110
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, I pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
200
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(4)
33 KSI STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
90
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
100 mph
85
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
110 mph
90
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
—
100 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
—
110 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi= 1 ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
201
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(5)
28-FQQT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ROOF AND CEILING ONLY aBc
50 KSI STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER SIZE
STUD SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85 mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
90mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
100 mph
85
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
110 mph
90
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
—
100
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
—
110
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa
I Ksi = 1 ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 1 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
202
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(6)
32-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ROOF AND CEILING ONLY abc
33 KSI STEEL
k^W^
|
I
WIND SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
1 0-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
90
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
100 mph
85
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
54
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
110 mph
90
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
—
100 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
—
110 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
203
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(7)
32-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ROOF AND CEILING ONLY abc
50 KSI STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(Inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
90
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
100 mph
85
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
J. 10 mph
90
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
—
100
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
—
110
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
204
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2{8)
36-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ROOF AND CEILING ONLY abc
33 KSI STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
54
33
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
90
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
54
33
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
100
mph
85
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
54
43
43
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
110
mph
90
mph
350SI62
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
—
100 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
—
1 10 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
54
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
205
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2{9)
36-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ROOF AND CEILING ONLY*'"'
50 KSI STEEL
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
WIND Srteu
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85 mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
90mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
100 mph
85
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
llOmph
90
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
—
100
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
33
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
—
110
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, l foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
206
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(10)
33 KSl STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp.C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
54
43
43
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
54
90
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
54
43
43
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
54
100 mph
85
mph
350SI62
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
33
43
43
54
33
43
43
54
43
43
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
54
110 mph
90
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
33
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
54
—
100 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
54
68
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
54
—
110 mph
350S162
16
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
24
43
43
54
68
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
54
43
43
43
54
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi = I ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 1 2 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
207
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(11)
40-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ROOF AND CEILING ONLY abc
50 KSI STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
1 0-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85 mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
90 mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
54
550SI62
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
100 mph
85 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
110 mph
90 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
54
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
—
100 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
—
110 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
68
55 OS 162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm. 1 mile per hour - 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0479 kPa
1 Ksi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
208
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE*
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLER603.3.2(12)
24-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ONE FLOOR, ROOF AND CEILING 3 bc
33 KS! STEEL
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
43
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
90
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
43
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
100
mph
85
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
110
mph
90
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
43
24
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
—
100
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
—
110
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, ) foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
I Ksi = 1 ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
209
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLER603.3.2(13)
24-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ONE FLOOR ROOF AND CEILING 3 ' bc
,_.--
50 KSI STEEL
WIND
SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
90
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
100 mph
85
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
110 mph
90
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
—
100 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
—
1 10 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
43
24
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1 ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: Z7240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
210
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE @
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(14)
28-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ONE FLOOR, ROOF AND CEILING" "■'
33 KSI STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
90
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
100 mph
85
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
1 1 mph
90
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
—
100
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
—
110
mph
350S162
16
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
24
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, I mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
lKsi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 1 2 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
211
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLER603.3.2(15)
28-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ONE FLOOR, ROOF AND CEILING 3 bc
50 KSS STEEL
MEMBER SIZE
STUD SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
WIND
SPEED
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Ground Snow Load (psf)
Exp. B
Exp. C
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
90
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
100 mph
85
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
110 mph
90
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
—
100
mph
350SI62
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
—
110
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 toot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
212
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLER603.3.2(16)
32-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ONE FLOOR, ROOF AND CEILING" bc
33 KSI STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER SIZE
STUD SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
43
43
54
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
90
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
43
43
54
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
100
mph
85
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
43
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
43
43
54
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
110
mph
90
mph
350S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
43
43
54
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
54
—
100 mph
350S162
16
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33.
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
—
1 10 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 fool = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, I mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
I Ksi = 1 ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 1 2 psf,
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
213
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLER603.3.2(17)
32-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ONE FLOOR, ROOF AND CEILING 3 bc
50 KSI STEEL
WIND
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
SPEED
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
54
550SI62
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
90
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
100
mph
85
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
33
43
54
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
110 mph
90
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
—
100 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
—
110 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
For SI: l inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1 ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
214
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(18)
36-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ONE FLOOR, ROOF AND CEILING abc
33 KS! STEEL
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85
mph
—
350SI62
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
90
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
100 mph
85
mph
350S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
54
68
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
110 mph
90
mph
350S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
54
24
43
43
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
—
100
mph
350S162
16
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
68
54
68
68
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
—
110
mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
I Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 1 2 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
215
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(19)
36-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ONE FLOOR, ROOF AND CEILING 3 "-'
50 KSI STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER SIZE
STUD SPACING (inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
43
54
33
33
43
54
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
90
mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
43
54
33
33
43
54
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
100
mph
85
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
110
mph
90
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
—
100
mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
—
110
mph
350S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 loot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, ] mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0479 kPa
lKsi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
216
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(20)
40-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ONE FLOOR, ROOF AND CEILING"' '
33 KSI STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85 raph
—
350S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
54
24
43
43
54
68
43
43
54
68
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
90mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
54
24
43
43
54
68
43
43
54
68
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
lOOmph
85 mph
350S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
54
24
43
43
54
68
43
43
54
68
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
HOmph
90mph
350S162
16
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
24
43
43
54
68
54
54
54
68
54
54
68
68
550S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
—
100 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
97
550S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
—
110 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
68
68
68
68
68
97
550S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
lKsi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: ZV240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
217
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(21)
40-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING ONE FLOOR ROOF AND CEILING 3 ' " c
50 KSI STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85 mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
43
43
54
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
90mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
43
43
54
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
100 mph
85 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
33
43
43
54
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
1 10 mph
90 mph
350SI62
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
43
43
54
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
—
100 mph
350S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
43
43
54
33
33
43
43
33
43
43
43
—
110 mph
350S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
54
24
43
43
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
33
43
43
54
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
54
For SI: l inch = 254 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1 ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: t/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
218
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(22)
_^^_
24-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING TWO FLOORS, ROOF AND CEILING 3 bc
33 KSI STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85 mph
—
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
90 mph
—
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
100 mph
85 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
1 10 mph
90 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
68
550S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
—
100 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
—
110 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
68
68
68
68
68
97
550S162
16
33
33
43
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Top and middle floor dead load is 10 psf.
Top floor live load is 30 psf.
Middle floor live load is 40 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
219
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE RS03.3.2(23)
24-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING TWO FLOORS, ROOF AND CEILING" b '
33 KSI STEEL
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
90 mph
—
350SI62
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
100 mph
85 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
110 mph
90 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
43
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
—
100 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
24
43
43
54
54
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
—
110 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Top and middle floor dead load is 10 psf.
Top floor live load is 30 psf.
Middle floor live load is 40 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
220
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(24)
28-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING TWO FLOORS, ROOF AND CEILING 3 b '
33 KSI STEEL
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
WIND &Kttu
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85 mph
—
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
550SI62
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
90mph
—
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
100 mph
85 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
1 10 mph
90 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
—
100 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
68
68
68
68
68
97
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
—
110 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
24
54
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
97
97
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54 54
54
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, I mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Top and middle floor dead load is 10 psf.
Top floor live load is 30 psf.
Middle floor live load is 40 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 9
221
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(25)
28-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING TWO FLOORS, ROOF AND CEILING 3 ' 1 "
50 KSI STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85 mph
~
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
90mph
—
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
100 mph
85 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
110 mph
90 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
—
100 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
33
33
33
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
55 OS 162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
—
1 10 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
33
24
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0479 kPa
1 Ksi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: Z./240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Top and middle floor dead load is 10 psf.
Top floor live load is 30 psf.
Middle floor live load is 40 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
222
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(26)
32-FQOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING TWO FLOORS, ROOF AND CEILING ' bc
33 KSI STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp.C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85 mph
—
350S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
24
68
68
68
68
54
54
68
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
90mph
—
350S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
24
68
68
68
68
54
54
68
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
100 mph
85 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
24
68
68
68
68
54
54
68
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
110 mph
90 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
24
68
68
68
68
54
54
68
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
—
100 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
24
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
97
97
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
—
110 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
54
24
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
97
97
97
97
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1 ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: 17240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Top and middle floor dead load is 10 psf.
Top floor live load is 30 psf.
Middle floor live load is 40 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 1 2 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
223
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(27)
32-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING TWO FLOORS, ROOF AND CEILING"' bc
50 KSI STEEL
[iJitid
WIND SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85 mph
—
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
90 mph
—
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
100 mph
85 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
1 10 mph
90 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
—
100 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
—
1 10 mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
33
33
33
43
33
33
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
43
43
43
54
43
43
54
54
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
I Ksi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Top and middle floor dead load is 10 psf.
Top floor live load is 30 psf.
Middle floor live load is 40 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 1 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
224
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(28)
36-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING TWO FLOORS, ROOF AND CEILING 8 " c
33 KSI STEEL
IBB
WIND SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD
SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
1 0-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85 mph
—
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
24
68
68
68
97
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
97
550S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
68
68
68
68
54
54
54
68
54
54
68
68
90mph
—
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
24
68
68
68
97
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
97
550S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
68
68
68
68
54
54
54
68
54
54
68
68
100 mph
85 mph
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
24
68
68
68
97
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
97
550S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
68
68
68
68
54
54
54
68
54
54
68
68
110 mph
90 mph
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
24
68
68
68
97
68
68
68
68
68
68
97
97
550S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
68
68
68
68
54
54
54
68
54
54
68
68
—
100 mph
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
43
43
54
54
54
54
54
54
24
68
68
68
97
68
68
68
68
97
97
97
97
550S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
68
68
68
68
54
54
54
68
54
54
68
68
—
110 mph
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
24
68
68
68
97
68
68
68
97
97
97
97
97
550S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
68
68
68
68
54
54
54
68
54
54
68
68
For SI: l inch = 25.4 mm. 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s. 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
I Ksi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Top and middle floor dead load is 10 psf.
Top floor live load is 30 psf.
Middle floor live load is 40 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
225
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(29)
36-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING TWO FLOORS, ROOF AND CEILING ' bc
50 KSI STEEL
I
WIND SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85
mph
—
350S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
68
68
68
68
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
90
mph
—
350S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
68
68
68
68
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
100
mph
85
mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
68
68
68
68
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
110
mph
90
mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
68
68
68
68
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
—
100
mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
54
24
68
68
68
68
54
54
54
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
—
110
mph
350S162
16
43
43
43
54
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
24
68
68
68
68
54
54
68
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, l foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, I mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Top and middle floor dead load is 10 psf.
Top floor live load is 30 psf.
Middle floor live load is 40 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 1 2 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
226
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(30)
40-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING TWO FLOORS, ROOF AND CEILING* bc
33 KSI STEEL
WIND
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
SPEED
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
1 0-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85
mph
—
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
24
97
97
97
97
68
68
68
97
97
97
97
97
550S162
16
54
54
54
54
43
43
54
54
43
43
54
54
24
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
90
mph
—
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
24
97
97
97
97
68
68
68
97
97
97
97
97
550S162
16
54
54
54
54
43
43
54
54
43
43
54
54
24
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
100
mph
85
mph
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
24
97
97
97
97
68
68
68
97
97
97
97
97
550S162
16
54
54
54
54
43
43
54
54
43
43
54
54
24
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
110
mph
90
mph
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
24
97
97
97
97
68
68
68
97
97
97
97
97
550S162
16
54
54
54
54
43
43
54
54
43
43
54
54
24
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
—
100
mph
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
24
97
97
97
97
68
68
68
97
97
97
97
97
550S162
16
54
54
54
54
43
43
54
54
43
43
54
54
24
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
—
110
mph
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
68
68
24
97
97
97
97
68
68
97
97
97
97
97
97
550S162
16
54
54
54
54
43
43
54
54
43
43
54
54
24
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm. 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Top and middle floor dead load is 10 psf.
Top floor live load is 30 psf.
Middle floor live load is 40 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
227
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2(31)
40-FOOT-WIDE BUILDING SUPPORTING TWO FLOORS, ROOF AND CEILING 8 ' bc
50 KSI STEEL
I
I
WIND
SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
1 0-foot Studs
Exp. B
Exp. C
Ground Snow Load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
85
raph
—
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
24
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
90
mph
—
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
24
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
100
mph
85
mph
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
24
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
110
mph
90
mph
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
24
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
—
100
mph
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
43
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
24
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
—
110
mph
350S162
16
54
54
54
54
43
43
43
43
54
54
54
54
24
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
68
97
550S162
16
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
43
24
54
54
54
68
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
54
For SI: l inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Top and middle floor dead load is 10 psf.
Top floor live load is 30 psf.
Middle floor live load is 40 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
R603.3.2.1 Gable endwails. The size and thickness of
gable endwall studs with heights less than or equal to
10 feet (3048 mm) shall be permitted in accordance
with the limits set forth in Table R603.3.2.1(l) or
R603.3.2.1(2). The size and thickness of gable endwall
studs with heights greater than 10 feet (3048 mm) shall
be determined in accordance with the limits set forth in
Table R603.3.2. 1 (3) or R603.3.2. 1(4).
R603.3.3 Stud bracing. The flanges of cold-formed steel
studs shall be laterally braced in accordance with one of
the following:
1 . Gypsum board on both sides, structural sheathing on
both sides, or gypsum board on one side and struc-
tural sheathing on the other side of load-bearing
walls with gypsum board installed with minimum
No. 6 screws in accordance with Section R702 and
228
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
structural sheathing installed in accordance with
Section R603.9.1 and Table R603.3.2(l).
Horizontal steel straps fastened in accordance with
Figure R603.3.3(l) on both sides at mid-height for
8-foot (2438 mm) walls, and at one-third points for
9-foot and 10-foot (2743 mm and 3048 mm) walls.
Horizontal steel straps shall be at least 1.5 inches in
width and 33 mils in thickness (38 mm by 0.84 mm).
Straps shall be attached to the flanges of studs with
one No. 8 screw. In-line blocking shall be installed
between studs at the termination of all straps and at
12 foot (3658 mm) intervals along the strap. Straps
shall be fastened to the blocking with two No. 8
screws.
3. Sheathing on one side and strapping on the other
side fastened in accordance with Figure
R603.3.3(2). Sheathing shall be installed in accor-
dance with Item 1 . Steel straps shall be installed in
accordance with Item 2.
TABLE R603.3.2.1(1)
ALL BUILDING WIDTHS GABLE ENDWALLS 8, 9 OR 10 FEET IN HEIGHT" bc
33 KSI STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER SIZE
STUD SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (Mils)
Exp. B
Exp. C
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
85 mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
550S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
90mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
550S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
100 mph
85 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
110 mph
90 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
—
100 mph
350S162
16
33
33
43
24
43
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
—
110 mph
350S162
16
33
43
43
24
43
54
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, ] mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Ground snow load is 70 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 1 2 psf.
Floor dead load is 10 psf.
Floor live load is 40 psf.
Attic dead load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
229
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2.1(2)
ALL BUILDING WIDTHS GABLE ENDWALLS 8, 9 OR 10 FEET IN HEIGHT" bc
50 KSi STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER SIZE
STUD SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (Mils)
Exp. B
Exp. C
8-foot Studs
9-foot Studs
10-foot Studs
85 mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
550S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
90mph
—
350S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
550S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
100 mph
85 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
550S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
1 10 mph
90 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
—
100 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
43
550S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
—
110 mph
350S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
43
54
550S162
16
33
33
33
24
33
33
33
For SI: l inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, ] mil = 0.0254 mm, I mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
J Ksi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Ground snow load is 70 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 1 2 psf.
Floor dead load is 1 psf.
Floor live load is 40 psf.
Attic dead load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
230
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.3.2.1(3)
ALL BUILDING WIDTHS GABLE ENDWALLS OVER 10 FEET IN HEIGHT 3 ' bl
33 KSI STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER SIZE
STUD SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
Exp. B
Exp. C
Stud Height, h (feet)
10</j<12
12</?<14
14</7<16
16 < rt<18
18</)<20
20<h< 22
85 mph
—
350S162
16
33
43
54
97
~
—
24
43
54
97
—
—
—
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
43
54
24
33
33
43
54
68
97
90 mph
—
350S162
16
33
43
68
97
—
—
24
43
68
97
—
—
—
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
54
54
24
33
33
43
54
68
97
100 mph
85 mph
350S162
16
43
54
97
—
—
—
24
54
97
—
—
—
—
550S162
16
33
33
43
54
54
68
24
33
43
54
68
97
97
1 10 mph
90 mph
350S162
16
43
68
—
—
—
—
24
68
—
—
—
—
—
550S162
16
33
43
43
54
68
97
24
43
54
68
97
97
—
—
100 mph
350S162
16
54
97
—
—
—
—
24
97
—
—
—
—
—
550S162
16
33
43
54
68
97
—
24
43
68
97
97
—
—
—
110 mph
350S162
16
68
97
—
—
—
—
24
97
—
—
—
—
—
550S162
16
43
54
68
97
97
—
| 24
54
68
97
—
—
—
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa
1 Ksi = 1 ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Ground snow load is 70 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 1 2 psf.
Floor dead load is 10 psf.
Floor live load is 40 psf.
Attic dead load is 1 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
231
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLER603.3.2.1(4)
ALL BUILDING WIDTHS GABLE ENDWALLS OVER 10 FEET IN HEIGHT" bI
50 KSI STEEL
WIND SPEED
MEMBER
SIZE
STUD SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM STUD THICKNESS (mils)
Exp. B
Exp. C
Stud Height, h (feet)
10 < /!< 12
12</J<14
14 < Aj< 16
16</)<18
18</1<20
20 < h < 22
85 mph
—
350S162
16
33
43
54
97
—
—
24
33
54
97
—
—
—
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
43
54
24
33
33
33
43
54
97
90 mph
—
350S162
16
33
43
68
97
—
—
24
43
68
97
—
—
—
550S162
16
33
33
33
33
43
54
24
33
33
43
43
68
97
100 mph
85 mph
350S162
16
33
54
97
—
—
—
24
54
97
—
—
—
—
550S162
16
33
33
33
43
54
68
24
33
33
43
54
97
97
110 mph
90 mph
350S162
16
43
68
—
—
—
—
24
68
—
—
—
—
—
550SI62
16
33
33
43
43
68
97
24
33
43
54
68
97
—
—
100 mph
350S162
16
54
97
—
—
—
—
24
97
—
—
—
—
—
550S162
16
33
33
43
54
97
—
24
43
54
54
97
—
—
—
110 mph
350S162
16
54
97
—
—
—
—
24
97
—
—
—
—
—
550S162
16
33
43
54
68
97
—
24
43
54
68
97
—
—
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mi! = 0.0254 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, I pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1 ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion L/240.
b. Design load assumptions:
Ground snow load is 70 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Floor dead load is 10 psf.
Floor live load is 40 psf.
Attic dead load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
232
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
BEND SECTION OR CLIP FLANGE
TO FORM VERTICAL
1 1 / 2 "x33MIL
FLAT STRIP (MINIMUM)
WALL FRAMING
TRACK/STUD BLOCKING @ ENDS OF
STRAP & INTERMITTENTLY EVERY 12'
2-NO. 8 SCREWS @ STRAP TO BLOCKING
NO. 8 SCREW
® EACH STRAP TO STUD
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R603.3.3(1)
STUD BRACING WITH STRAPPING ONLY
STUD/TRAK BLOCKING
@ EACH END OF STRAP
& INTERMITTENTLY EVERY 12'
WALL SHEATHING
WALL FRAMING
1 1 /2"x33MIL
FLAT STRAP
BEND SECTION OR CLIP
FLANGE TO FORM VERTICAL
2 NO. 8 SCREWS
STRAP TO BLOCKING
NO. 8 SCREW
©EACH STRAP TO STUD
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R603.3.3(2)
STUD BRACING WITH STRAPPING AND SHEATHING MATERIAL
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
233
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R 603.3.4 Cutting and notching. Flanges and lips of cold-
formed steel studs and headers shall not be cut or notched.
R6W3.3.5 Splicing. Steel studs and other structural mem-
bers shall not be spliced. Tracks shall be spliced in accor-
dance with Figure R603.3.5.
R603.4 Corner framing. In exterior walls, corner studs and
the top tracks shall be installed in accordance with Figure
R603.4.
R603.5 Exterior wall covering. The method of attachment
of exterior wall covering materials to cold-formed steel stud
wall framing shall conform to the manufacturer's installation
instructions.
R603.6 Headers. Headers shall be installed above all wall
openings in exterior walls and interior load-bearing walls.
Box beam headers and back-to-back headers each shall be
formed from two equal sized C-shaped members in accor-
dance with Figures R603.6(l) and R603.6(2), respectively,
and Tables R603.6(l) through R603.6(24). L-shaped headers
shall be permitted to be constructed in accordance with AISI
S230. Alternately, headers shall be permitted to be designed
and constructed in accordance with AISI S100, Section D4.
♦-NO. 8 SCREWS
ON EACH SIDE OF SPLICE
STUD SECTION INSIDE TRACK
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R603.3.5
TRACK SPLICE
4-NO, 8 SCREWS AT LAPPED TRACK
CUP TRACK FLANGE
AT LAP JOINT
TRACK
2 NO. 8 SCREWS
24" O.C, CONNECTING
CORNER STUDS
r
L~ -JM
INTERIOR GYPSUM
WALL BOARD FINISH
TRACK
PLAN
-NO. 6 SCREWS
ALTERNATE PLAN
For SI: I inch = 25.4 i
FIGURE R603.4
CORNER FRAMING
234
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
2 NO.8 SCREWS @ 24" O.C
ONE PER FLANGE
C-SHAPES
2 NO. 8 SCREWS AT
24" ON CENTER,
ONE PER FLANGE
TRACK
TRACK
CRIPPLE STUD
TRACK
TRACK OR C-SHAPE
ATTACH WITH NO. 8 SCREWS
(MINIMUM DEPTH = HEADER
DEPTH MINUS Vi INCH)
KING STUD(S)
JACK STUD(S)
NO. 8 SCREWS THROUGH
SHEATHING TO EACH
JACK AND KING STUD
AT 12" ON CENTER
STRUCTURAL SHEATHING
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R603.6(1)
BOX BEAM HEADER
2-NO. 8 SCREWS
AT 24" ON CENTER
(2 SCREWS THROUGH
TOP FLANGES AND
2 SCREWS THROUGH
BOTTOM FLANGES)
BACK-TO-BACK
C-SHAPES
2-NO. 8 SCREWS
AT 24" ON CENTER
CRIPPLE STUD
TRACK
STRUCTURAL SHEATHING
TRACK
2" x 2" CLIP ANGLE ATTACHED
WITH NO. 8 SCREWS,
MINIMUM LENGTH = WEB DEPTH
MINUS 1 / 2 INCH
TRACK
JACK STUDS (AS REQUIRED)
KING STUDS (AS REQUIRED)
NO. 8 SCREWS THROUGH
SHEATHING TO EACH JACK
& KING STUD AT 12" ON CENTER
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R603.6(2)
BACK-TO-BACK HEADER
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
235
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(1)
BOX-BEAM HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting Roof and Ceiling Only
(33 Ksi steel) 8 b
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(20 psf )
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(30 psf)
Building width (feet)
Building width (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S 162-33
3'-3"
2'-8"
2'-2"
—
—
2'-8"
2'-2"
—
—
—
2-350S162-43
4'-2"
3'-9"
3'-4"
2'- 11"
2'-7"
3'-9"
3'-4"
2'- 11"
2'-7"
2'-2"
2-350S162-54
5'-0"
4'-6"
4'-l"
3'-8"
3'-4"
4'-6"
4'-l"
3'-8"
3'-3"
3'-0"
2-350S162-68
5'-7"
5'-l"
4'-7"
4'-3"
3'- 10"
5'-l"
4'-7"
4'-2"
3'- 10"
3'-5"
2-350S162-97
7'-l"
6'-6"
6'-l"
5'-8"
5'-3"
6'-7"
6'-l"
5'-7"
5'-3"
4'- 11"
2-550S162-33
4'-8"
4'-0"
3'-6"
3'-0"
2'-6"
4'-l"
3'-6"
3'-0"
2'-6"
—
2-550S162-43
6'-0"
5'-4"
4'- 10"
4'-4"
3'- 11"
5'-5"
4'- 10"
4'-4"
3'- 10"
3'-5"
2-550S162-54
7'-0"
6'-4"
5'-9"
5 '-4"
4'- 10"
6'-5"
5'-9"
5'-3"
4'- 10"
4'-5"
2-550S 162-68
8'-0"
7'-4"
6'-9"
6'-3"
5'- 10"
7'-5"
6'-9"
6'-3"
5'-9"
5'-4"
2-550S 162-97
9'-ll"
9'-2"
8'-6"
8'-0"
7'-6"
9'-3"
8'-6"
8'-0"
7'-5"
7'-0"
2-800S 162-33
4'-5"
3'-ll"
3'-5"
3'-l"
2'- 10"
3'- 11"
3'-6"
3'-l"
2'-9"
2'-3"
2-800S 162-43
7'-3"
6'-7"
5'- 11"
5'-4"
4'-10"
6'-7"
5'-ll"
5'-4"
4'-9"
4'-3"
2-800S 162-54
8'- 10"
8'-0"
7'-4"
6'-9"
6'-2"
8'-l"
7'-4"
6'-8"
6'-l"
5'-7"
2-800S 162-68
J0'-5"
9'-7"
8'- 10"
8'-2"
7'-7"
9'-8"
8'- 10"
8'-l"
7'-6"
7'-0"
2-800S 162-97
13'-1"
12'-l"
ll'-3"
10'-7"
lO'-O"
12'-2"
ll'-4"
10'-6"
lO'-O"
9'-4"
2-1000S 162-43
7'- 10"
6'- 10"
6'-l"
5'-6"
5'-0"
6'- 11"
6'-l"
5'-5"
4'- 11"
4'-6"
2- 1000S 162-54
lO'-O"
9'-l"
8'-3"
7'-7"
7'-0"
9'-2"
8'-4"
7'-7"
6'- 11"
6'-4"
2- 1000S 162-68
ll'-ll"
10'- 11"
lO'-l"
9'-4"
8'-8"
ll'-O"
lO'-l"
9'-3"
8'-7"
8'-0"
2- 1000S 162-97
15'-3"
14'-3"
13'-5"
12'-6"
11 '-10"
14'-4"
13'-5"
12'-6"
11 '-9"
ll'-O"
2-1200S162-54
ll'-l"
lO'-O"
9'-2"
8'-5"
7'-9"
lO'-l"
9'-2"
8'-4"
7'-7"
7'-0"
2-1200S 162-68
13'-3"
12'-1"
ll'-2"
10'-4"
9'-7"
12'-3"
ll'-2"
10'-3"
9'-6"
8'-10"
2- 1200S 162-97
16'-8"
15'-7"
14'-8"
13'-11"
13'-3"
15'-8"
14'-8"
13'- 11"
13'-2"
12'-6"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I toot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
I Ksi= 1 ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/360 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic dead load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
236
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(2)
BOX-BEAM HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting Roof and Ceiling Only
(50 Ksi steel) 3 h
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(20 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(30 psf)
Building width (feet)
Building width" (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S162-33
4'-4"
3'- 11"
3'-6"
3'-2"
2'- 10"
3'-ll"
3'-6"
3'-l"
2'-9"
2'-5"
2-350S 162-43
5'-6"
5'-0"
4'-7"
4'-2"
3'- 10"
5'-0"
4'-7"
4'-2"
3'-10"
3'-6"
2-350S 162-54
6'-2"
5'-10"
5'-8"
5'-3"
4'-10"
5'-ll"
5'-8"
5'-2"
4'- 10"
4'-6"
2-350S 162-68
6'-7"
6'-3"
6'-0"
5'- 10"
5'-8"
6'-4"
6'-l"
5'- 10"
5'-8"
5'-6"
2-350S 162-97
7'-3"
6'- 11"
6'-8"
6'-5"
6'-3"
7-0"
6'-8"
6'-5"
6'-3"
6'-0"
2-550S 162-33
6'-2"
5'-6"
5'-0"
4'-7"
4'-2"
5'-7"
5'-0"
4'-6"
4'-l"
3'-8"
2-550S 162-43
7'-9"
7-2"
6'-7"
6'-l"
5'-8"
7-3"
6'-7"
6'-l"
5'-7"
5'-2"
2-550S 162-54
8'-9"
8'-5"
8'-l"
7'-9"
7'-3"
8'-6"
8'-l"
7'-8"
7'-2"
6'-8"
2-550S 162-68
9'-5"
9'-0"
8'-8"
8'-4"
8'-l"
9'-l"
8'-8"
8'-4"
8'-l"
7'- 10"
2-550S 162-97
10'-5"
lO'-O"
9'-7"
9'-3"
9'-0"
lO'-O"
9'-7"
9'-3"
8'- 11"
8'-8"
2-800S 162-33
4'-5"
3'-ll"
3'-5"
3'-l"
2'- 10"
3'-ll"
3'-6"
3'-l"
2'-9"
2'-6"
2-800S 162-43
9'-l"
8'-5"
7'-8"
6'- 11"
6'-3"
8'-6"
7'-8"
6'-10"
6'-2"
5'-8"
2-800S 162-54
10'- 10"
10'-2"
9'-7"
9'-0"
8'-5"
10'-2"
9'-7"
8'- 11"
8'-4"
7'-9"
2-800S 162-68
12'-8"
ll'-lO"
11 '-2"
10'-7"
lO'-l"
ll'-ll"
11'- 2"
10'-7"
lO'-O"
9'-6"
2-800S 162-97
14'-2"
13'-6"
13'-0"
12'-7"
1 2'-2"
13'-8"
13'-1"
12'-7"
12'-2"
11 '-9"
2- 1000S 162-43
7'- 10"
6'- 10"
6'-l"
5'-6"
5'-0"
6'- 11"
6'-l"
5'-5"
4'-11"
4'-6"
2-1000S 162-54
12'-3"
11 '-5"
10'-9"
10'-2"
9'-6"
1 1'-6"
10'-9"
10'- 1"
9'-5"
8'-9"
2- 1000S 162-68
14'-5"
13'-5"
12'-8"
12'-0"
11 '-6"
13'-6"
12'-8"
12'-0"
ll'-5"
10'- 10"
2- 1000S 162-97
17'-1"
16'-4"
15'-8"
14'-11"
14'-3"
16'-5"
15'-9"
14'- 10"
14' 1"
13'-6"
2-1200S162-54
12'- 11"
11 '-3"
lO'-O"
9'-0"
8'-2"
11 '-5"
lO'-O"
9'-0"
8'-l"
7'-4"
2- 1200S 162-68
15'-11"
14'- 10"
14'-0"
13'-4"
12'- 8"
15'-0"
14'-0"
1 3'-3"
12'-7"
ll'-ll"
2-1200S162-97
19'-11"
18'-7"
17'-6"
16'-8"
15'- 10"
18'-9"
17'-7"
16'-7"
15'-9"
15'-0"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6 895 kPa
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/360 for live loads, U240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic dead load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
237
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(3)
BOX-BEAM HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting Roof and Ceiling Only
(33Ksisteel) ab
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(50 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(70 psf)
Building width' (feet)
Building width" (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
2'-4"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-54
3'-l"
2'-8"
2'-3"
—
—
2'-l"
—
—
—
-
2-350S 162-68
3'-7"
3'-2"
2'-8"
2'-3"
—
2'-6"
—
—
—
2-350S 162-97
5'-l"
4'-7"
4'-3"
3'-ll"
3'-7"
4'-l"
3'-8"
3'-4"
3'-0"
2'-8"
2-550S 162-33
2'-2"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-43
3'-8"
3'-l"
2'-6"
—
—
2'-3"
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-54
4'-7"
4'-0"
3'-6"
3'-0"
2'-6"
3'-3"
2'-8"
2'-l"
—
—
2-550S 162-68
5'-6"
4'- 11"
4'-5"
3'-ll"
3'-6"
4'-3"
3'-8"
3'-l"
2'-7"
2'-l"
2-550S 162-97
7'-3"
6'-7"
6'-l"
5'-8"
5'-3"
5'-ll"
5'-4"
4'-ll"
4'-6"
4'-l"
2-800S162-33
2'-7"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-43
4'-6"
3'-9"
3'-l"
2'-5"
—
2'- 10"
—
—
—
—
2-800S162-54
5'-10"
5'-l"
4'-6"
311"
3'-4"
4'-3"
3'-6"
2'-9"
—
—
2-800S162-68
7'-2"
6'-6"
5'- 10"
5'-3"
4'-8"
5'-7"
4'- 10"
4'-2"
3'-7"
2'- 11"
2-800S 162-97
9'-7"
8'-9"
8'-2"
7-1"
7'-0"
7'- 11"
7'-2"
6'-7"
6'-0"
5'-7"
2- 1000S 162-43
4'-8"
4'-l"
3'-6"
2'-9"
—
3'-3"
2'-2"
—
—
—
2- 1000S 162-54
6'-7"
5'-10"
5'-l"
4'-5"
3'-9"
4'- 10"
4'-0"
3'-2"
2'-3"
—
2-1000S162-68
8'-3"
7'-5"
6'-8"
6'-0"
5'-5"
6'-5"
5'-7"
4'-9"
4'-l"
3'-5"
2-1000S162-97
1 1'-4"
10'-5"
9'-8"
9'-0"
8'-5"
9'-5"
8'-6"
7'- 10"
7'-2"
6'-7"
2- 1200S 162-54
7'-3"
6'-5"
5'-7"
4'-10"
4'-2"
5'-4"
4'-4"
3'-5"
2'-5"
—
2- 1200S 162-68
9'-2"
8'-2"
7'-5"
6'-8"
6'-0"
r-v
6'-2"
5'-4"
4'-6"
3'-9"
2-1 200S 162-97
12'- 10"
ll'-9"
lO'-ll"
10'-2"
9'-6"
10'-7"
9'-8"
8'-10"
8'-2"
7'-6"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
lKsi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/360 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Roof/ceiling dead load is 1 2 psf.
Attic dead load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
238
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(4)
BOX-BEAM HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting Roof and Ceiling Only
(50 Ksi steel) a b
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(50 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(70 psf)
Building width (f
eet)
Building width (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S 162-33
2'-7"
2'-2"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
3'-8"
3'-3"
2'-10"
2'-6"
2'-l"
2'-8"
2'-3"
—
—
—
2-350S162-54
4'-8"
4'-2"
3'-9"
3'-5"
3'-l"
3'-7"
3'-2"
2'-9"
2'-5"
2'-0"
2-350S 162-68
5'-7"
5'-2"
4'-9"
4'-4"
3'- 11"
4'-7"
4'-l"
3'-7"
3'-2"
2'- 10"
2-350S 162-97
6'-2"
5'- 11"
5'-8"
5'-6"
5'-4"
5'-8"
5'-5"
5'-3"
4'- 11"
4'-7"
2-550S 162-33
3'- 11"
3'-4"
2'- 10"
2'-4"
—
2'-7"
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-43
5'-4"
4'- 10"
4'-4"
3'- 10"
3'-5"
4'-2"
3'-7"
3'-l"
2'-7"
2'-l"
2-550S 162-54
6'- 11"
6'-3"
5'-9"
5'-3"
4'-9"
5'-6"
4'- 11"
4'-5"
3'-ll"
3'-5"
2-550S 162-68
8'-0"
7'-6"
6'- 11"
6'-5"
5'-ll"
6'-9"
6'-l"
5'-6"
5'-0"
4'-7"
2-550S 162-97
8'- 11"
8'-6"
8'-2"
7'- 11"
7'-8"
8'-l"
7'-9"
7'-6"
7'-l"
6'-7"
2-800S 162-33
2'-8"
2'-4"
2'-l"
I'-ll"
l'-9"
2'-0"
l'-9"
—
—
—
2-800S 162-43
5'-10"
5'-2"
4'-7"
4'-2"
3'- 10"
4'-5"
3'- 11"
3'-6"
3'-0"
2'-6"
2-800S 162-54
8'-0"
7'-3"
6'-8"
6'-l"
5'-7"
6'-5"
5'-9"
5'-l"
4'-7"
4'-0"
2-800S 162-68
9'-9"
9'-0"
8'-3"
7'-8"
7'-l"
8'-0"
7'-3"
6'-7"
6'-0"
5'-6"
2-800S 162-97
12'-1"
ll'-7"
ll'-2"
10'-8"
10'-2"
ll'-O"
10'-4"
9'-9"
9'-2"
8'-7"
2- 1000S 162-43
4'-8"
4'-l"
3'-8"
3'-4"
3'-0"
3'-6"
3'-l"
2'-9"
2'-6"
2'-3"
2- 1000S 162-54
9'-l"
8'-2"
7'-3"
6'-7"
6'-0"
7'-0"
6'-2"
5'-6"
5'-0"
4'-6"
2- 1000S 162-68
ll'-l"
10'-2"
9'-5"
8'-8"
8'-l"
9'-l"
8'-3"
7'-6"
6'-10"
6'-3"
2- 1000S 162-97
13'-9"
12'- 11"
12'-2"
11 '-7"
ll'-l"
11 '-11"
ll'-3"
10'-7"
9'- 11"
9'-4"
2- 1200S 162-54
7'-8"
6'-9"
6'-l"
5'-6"
5'-0"
5'- 10"
5'-l"
4'-7"
4'4"
3'-9"
2- 1200S 162-68
12'-3"
1 1'-3"
10'-4"
9'-7"
8'- 11"
10'- 1"
9'-l"
8'-3"
7'-6"
6'- 10"
2- 1200S 162-97
15'-4"
14'-5"
13'-7"
12'- 11"
12'-4"
13'-4"
12'-6"
11 '-10"
ll'-l"
10'-5"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/360 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic dead load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
239
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(5)
BOX-BEAM HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting One Floor, Roof and Ceiling
(33 Ksi steel) 3 ' b
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(20 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(30 psf)
Building width (feet)
Building width c (1
eet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
2'-2"
—
—
—
—
2'-l"
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-54
2'-ll"
2'-5"
—
—
—
2'- 10"
2'-4"
—
—
—
2-350S 162-68
3'-8"
3'-2"
2'-9"
2'-4"
-
3'-7"
3'-l"
2'-8"
2'-3"
—
2-350S162-97
4'-ll"
4'-5"
4'-2"
3'-8"
3'-5"
4'-10"
4'-5"
4'-0"
3'-8"
3'-4"
2-550S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-43
3'-5"
2'-9"
2'-l"
—
—
3'-3"
2'-7"
—
—
—
2-550S 162-54
4'-4"
3'-9"
3'-2"
2'-7"
2'-l"
4'-3"
3'-7"
3'-l"
2'-6"
—
2-550S 162-68
5'-3"
4'-8"
4'-l"
3'-7"
3'-2"
5'-2"
4'-7"
4'-0"
3'-6"
3'-l"
2-550S 162-97
7'-0"
6'-5"
5'-10"
5'-5"
5'-0"
6'- 11"
6'-4"
5'-9"
5'-4"
4'- 11"
2-800S162-33
2'-l"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-43
4'-2"
3'-4"
2'-7"
—
—
4'-0"
3'-3"
2'-5"
—
—
2-800S 162-54
5'-6"
4'-9"
4'-l"
3'-5"
2'-9"
5'-5"
4'-8"
3'-ll"
3'-3"
2'-8"
2-800S 162-68
6'- 11"
6'-2"
5'-5"
4'- 10"
4'-3"
6'-9"
6'-0"
5'-4"
4'-8"
4'-l"
2-800S 162-97
9'-4"
8'-6"
7'- 10"
7'-3"
6'-8"
9'-2"
8'-4"
7'-8"
7'-l"
6'-7"
2- 1000S 162-43
4'-4"
3'-9"
2'- 11"
—
—
4'-3"
3'-8"
2'-9"
—
—
2-1000S162-54
6'-3"
5'-5"
4'-7"
3'-U"
3'-2"
6'-l"
5'-3"
4'-6"
3'-9"
3'-0"
2-1000S162-68
7'- 11"
7'-0"
6'-3"
5'-6"
4'-10"
7'-9"
6'- 10"
6'-l"
5'-4"
4'-9"
2-1000S162-97
1 l'-O"
lO'-l"
9'-3"
8'-7"
8'-0"
lO'-ll"
9'-ll"
9'-2"
8'-5"
7'-10"
2-1200S162-54
6'-ll"
5'-11"
5'-l"
4'-3"
3'-5"
6'-9"
5'-9"
4'-l 1"
4'-l"
3'-3"
2- 1200S 162-68
8'-9"
7'-9"
6'- 11"
6'-l"
5'-4"
8'-7"
7'-7"
6'-9"
5'-ll"
5'-3"
2- 1200S 162-97
12'-4"
11 '-5"
10' 6"
9'-8"
9'-0"
12'-3"
ll'-3"
10'-4"
9'-6"
8'-10"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1 ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: i/360 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Attic dead load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
240
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(6)
BOX-BEAM HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting One Floor, Roof and Ceil
(50 Ksi steel) 3 ' b
ing
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(20 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(30 psf)
Building width (feet)
Building width (i
eet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S162-33
2'-4"
—
—
—
—
2'-3"
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
3'-4"
2'-ll"
2'-6"
2'-l"
—
3'-3"
2'- 10"
2'-5"
2'-0"
—
2-350S 162-54
4'-4"
3'- 10"
3'-5"
3'-l"
2'-9"
4'-3"
2'-9"
3'-4"
3'-0"
2'-8"
2-350S 162-68
5'-0"
4'-9"
4'-7"
4'-2"
3'-9"
4'- 11"
4'-8"
4'-6"
4'-l"
3'-9"
2-350S162-97
5'-6"
5'-3"
5'-l"
4'-l 1"
2'-9"
5'-5"
5'-2"
5'-0"
4'- 10"
4'-8"
2-550S 162-33
3'-6"
2'-ll"
2'-4"
—
—
3'-5"
2'- 10"
2'-3"
—
—
2-550S 162-43
5'-0"
4'-5"
3'-ll"
3'-5"
3'-0"
4'- 11"
4'-4"
3'- 10"
3'-4"
2'- 11"
2-5 50S 162-54
6'-6"
5'-10"
5'-3"
4'-9"
4'-4"
6'-4"
5'-9"
5'-2"
4'- 8"
4'-3"
2-550S 162-68
7'-2"
6'- 10"
6'-5"
5'-ll"
5'-6"
7'-0"
6'-9"
6'-4"
5'10"
5'-4"
2-550S 162-97
7- 11"
l'-l"
7'-3"
7'-0"
6'- 10"
7'-9"
7'-5"
7'-2"
6'- 11"
6'-9"
2-800S 162-33
2'-5"
2'-2"
l'-l 1"
l'-9"
—
2'-5"
2'-l"
l'-lO"
l'-8"
—
2-800S 162-43
5'-5"
4'-9"
4'-3"
3'-9"
3'-5"
5'-3"
4'-8"
4'-l"
3'-9"
3'-5"
2-800S 162-54
7'-6"
6'-9"
6'-2"
5'-7"
5'-0"
7'-5"
6'-8"
6'-0"
5'-5"
4'-ll"
2-800S 162-68
9'-3"
8'-5"
7'-8"
7'-l"
6'-6"
9'-l"
8'-3"
7'-7"
7'-0"
6'-5"
2-800S 162-97
10'-9"
10'-3"
9'- 11"
9'-7"
9'-3"
10'-7"
lO'-l"
9'-9"
9'-5"
9'-1"
2- 1000S 162-43
4'-4"
3'-9"
3'-4"
3'-0"
2'-9"
4'-3"
3'-8"
3'-3"
2'- 11"
2'-8"
2-1000S162-54
8'-6"
7'-6"
6'-8"
6'-0"
5'-5"
8'-4"
7'-4"
6'-6"
5'- 10"
5'-4"
2- 1000S 162-68
10'-6"
9'-7"
8'-9"
8'-0"
7'-5"
10'-4"
9'-5"
8'-7"
7'- 11"
7'-3"
2- 1000S 162-97
12'- 11"
12'-4"
11 '-8"
1 l'-l"
10'-6"
12'-9"
12'-2"
11 '-6"
lO'-ll"
10'-5"
2- 1200S 162-54
7'-l"
6'-2"
5'-6"
5'-0"
4'-6"
6'-ll"
6'-l"
5'-5"
4'- 10"
4'-5"
2- 1200S 162-68
U'-7"
10'-7"
9'-8"
8'-ll"
8'-2"
ll'-5"
10'-5"
9'-6"
8'-9"
8'-0"
2- 1200S 162-97
14'-9"
13'-9"
13'-0"
12'-4"
11 '-9"
14'-7"
13'-8"
12'- 10"
12'-3"
ll'-8"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
I Ksi = 1 ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: ZV360 for live loads. L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 1 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
241
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(7)
BOX-BEAM HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting One Floor, Roof and Ceiling
(33 Ksi steel) 3 *
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(50 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(70 psf)
Building width (feet)
Building width' (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S162-54
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S162-68
2'-8"
2'-3"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-97
4' -or
3'-7"
3'-3"
2'- 11"
2'-7"
3'-4"
2'- 11"
2'-6"
2'-2"
—
2-550S162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-43
2'-0"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-54
3'-l"
2'-6"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-68
4'-l"
3'-6"
2'-ll"
2'-5"
—
3'-l"
2'-5"
—
—
—
2-550S 162-97
5'- 10"
5'-3"
4'-10"
4'-5"
4'-0"
4'-ll"
4'-5"
3'- 11"
3'-6"
3'-2"
2-800S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
-—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-43
2'-6"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-54
4'-0"
3'-3"
2'-6"
—
—
2'-8"
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-68
5'-5"
4'-8"
4'-0"
3'-4"
2'-8"
4'-2"
3'-4"
2'-6"
—
—
2-800S 162-97
7'-9"
7'-l"
6'-6"
5'- 11"
5'-5"
6'-7"
5'- 11"
5'-4"
4'- 10"
4'-4"
2-1000S162-43
2'-10"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2- 1000S 162-54
4'-7"
3'-8"
2'-9"
—
—
3'-0"
—
—
—
—
2-1000S162-68
6'-2"
5'-4"
4'-7"
3'- 10"
3'-l"
4'-9"
3'- 10"
2'- 11"
—
—
2-1000S162-97
9'-3"
8'-5"
7'-8"
7'-l"
6'-6"
7'-10"
7-1"
6'-5"
5'-9"
5'-2"
2- 1200S 162-54
5'-0"
4'-0"
3'-l"
—
—
3'-4"
—
—
—
—
2- 1200S 162-68
6'- 10"
5'-ll"
5'-0"
4'-3"
3'-5"
5'-3"
4'-3"
3'-2"
—
—
2- 1200S 162-97
10'-5"
9'-6"
8'-8"
8'-0"
7'-4"
8'- 10"
8'-0"
7'-3"
6'-6"
5'- 10"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: Z./360 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
242
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(8)
BOX-BEAM HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting One Floor, Roof and Ceiling
(50 Ksi steel) 3 ' b
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(50 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(70 psf)
Building width" (feet)
Building width' (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
2'-8"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-54
3'-5"
3'-0"
2'-7"
2'-2"
-
2'-8"
2'-2"
—
—
—
2-350S 162-68
4'-6"
4'-l"
3'-8"
3'-3"
2'- 11"
3'-9"
3'-3"
2'- 10"
2'-5"
2'-l"
2-350S 162-97
5'-l"
4'- 10"
4'-8"
4'-6"
4'-5"
4'-10"
4'-7"
4'-4"
4'-0"
3'-8"
2-550S 162-33
2'-4"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-43
3'- 10"
3'-4"
2'-9"
2'-3"
—
2'-ll"
2'-3"
—
—
—
2-550S162-54
5'-3"
3'-8"
4'-l"
3'-8"
3'-2"
4'-3"
3'-8"
3'-l"
2'-7"
2'-0"
2-550S 162-68
6'-5"
5'- 10"
5 '-3"
4'-9"
4'-4"
5'-5"
4'-9"
4'-3"
3'-9"
3'-4"
2-550S 162-97
7'-4"
7'-0"
6'-9"
6'-6"
6'-4"
6'-ll"
6'-8"
6'-3"
5'- 10"
5'-5"
2-800S 162-33
l'-ll"
l'-8"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S162-43
4'-2"
3'-8"
3'-4"
2'-9"
2'-2"
3'-5"
2'-9"
—
—
—
2-800S162-54
6'-l"
5'-5"
4'- 10"
4'-3"
3'-9"
4'-ll"
4'-3"
3'-8"
3'-0"
2'-5"
2-800S 162-68
7'-8"
6'- 11"
6'-3"
5'-9"
5'-2"
6'-5"
5'-9"
5'-l"
4'-6"
4'-0"
2-800S 162-97
9'-ll"
9'-6"
9'-2"
8'- 10"
8'-3"
9'-5"
8'- 10"
8'-2"
7'-7"
7'-0"
2- 1000S 162-43
3'-4"
2'- 11"
2'-7"
2'-5"
2'-2"
2'-8"
2'-5"
2'-2"
—
—
2- 1000S 162-54
6'-7"
5'-10"
5'-3"
4'-9"
4'-3"
5'-4"
4'-9"
4'-l"
3'-5"
2'-9"
2- 1000S 162-68
8'-8"
7'- 10"
7'-2"
6'-6"
5'-l 1"
7'-4"
6'-6"
5'-9"
5'-1"
4'-6"
2- 1000S 162-97
11 '-!"
lO'-ll"
10'-3"
9'-7"
9'-0"
10'-5"
9'-7"
8'- 10"
8'-2"
7'- 8"
2- 1200S 162-54
5'-6"
4'-10"
4'-4"
3'-ll"
3'-7"
4'-5"
3'-ll"
3'-6"
3'-2"
2'- 11"
2- 1200S 162-68
9'-7"
8'-8"
7'-ll"
7'-2"
6'-6"
8'-l"
7'-2"
6'-4"
5'-8"
5'-0"
2-1 200S 162-97
12'- 11"
12'-2"
ll'-6"
10'-8"
lO'-O"
ll'-8"
10'-9"
9'- 11"
9'-2"
8'-6"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6 895 kPa
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/360 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
243
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(9)
BOX-BEAM HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting Two Floors, Roof and Ceiling
(33 Ksi steel) 3 ' b
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(20 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(30 psf)
Building width" (feet)
Building width (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S1 62-54
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-68
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-97
3'-l"
2'-8"
2'-3"
—
—
3'-l"
2'-7"
2'-2"
—
—
2-550S162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-54
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S162-68
2'-9"
—
—
—
—
2'-8"
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-97
4'- 8"
4'-l"
3'-7"
3'-2"
2'-9"
4'-7"
4'-0"
3'-6"
3'-l"
2'-8"
2-800S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-54
2'-l"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-68
3'-8"
2'-9"
—
—
—
3'-7"
2'-8"
—
—
—
2-800S 162-97
6'-3"
5'-6"
4'- 11"
4'-4"
3'-9"
6'-2"
5'-5"
4'- 10"
4'-3"
3'-9"
2- 1000S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2- 1000S 162-54
2'-5"
—
—
—
—
2'-3"
—
—
—
—
2- 1000S 162-68
4'-3"
3'-2"
2'-0"
—
—
4'-2"
3'-l"
—
—
—
2-1000S1 62-97
7'-5"
6'-7"
5'- 10"
5'-2"
4'-7"
7'-4"
6'-6"
5'-9"
5'-l"
4'-6"
2-1200S162-54
2'-7"
—
—
—
—
2'-6"
—
—
—
—
2-1200S 162-68
4'-8"
3'-6"
2'-2"
—
—
4'-7"
3'-5"
2'-0"
—
—
2-1200S162-97
8'-5"
7'-5"
6'-7"
5'- 10"
5'-2"
8'-3"
7'-4"
6'-6" 5'-9"
5'-l"
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, J foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1 ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/360 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Second floor live load is 40 psf.
Third floor live load is 30 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
244
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(10)
BOX-BEAM HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting Two Floors, Roof and Ceiling
(50 Ksi steel)" b
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(20 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(30 psf)
Building width c (feet)
Building width (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
~
—
2-350S162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-54
2'-5"
—
—
—
—
2'-4"
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-68
3'-6"
3'-0"
2'-6"
2'-l"
—
3'-5"
2'- 11"
2'-6"
2'-0"
—
2-350S 162-97
4'-9"
4'-6"
4'-l"
3'-8"
3'-4"
4'-8"
4'-5"
4'-0"
3'-8"
3'-4"
2-550S162-33
—
— -
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S162-43
2'-7"
—
—
—
—
2'-6"
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-54
3'- 11"
3'-3"
2'-8"
2'-0"
—
3'- 10"
3'-3"
2'-7"
—
—
2-550S 162-68
5'-l"
4'-5"
3'- 10"
3'-3"
2'-9"
5'-0"
4'-4"
3'-9"
3'-3"
2'-9"
2-550S162-97
6'-10"
6'-5"
5'- 10"
5'-5"
4'- 11"
6'-9"
6'-4"
5'- 10"
5'-4"
4'- 11"
2-800S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-43
3'-l"
2'-3"
—
—
—
3'-0"
2'-2"
—
—
—
2-800S 162-54
4'-7"
3'- 10"
3'-l"
2'-5"
—
4'-6"
3'-9"
3'-0"
2'-4"
—
2-800S 162-68
6'-0"
5'-3"
4'-7"
3'- 11"
3'-4"
6'-0"
5'-2"
4'-6"
3'-ll"
3'-3"
2-800S162-97
9'-2"
8'-4"
7'-8"
7'-0"
6'-6"
9'-l"
8'-3"
7'-7"
7'-0"
6'-5"
2- 1000S 162-43
2'-6"
2'-2"
—
—
—
2'-6"
2'-2"
—
—
—
2-1000S 162-54
5'-0"
4'-4"
3'-6"
2'-9"
—
4'- 11"
4'-3"
3'-5"
2'-7"
—
2-1 0OOS 162-68
6'- 10"
6'-0"
5'-3"
4'-6"
3'- 10"
6'-9"
5'-ll"
5'-2"
4'-5"
3'-9"
2- 1000S 162-97
lO'-O"
9'-l"
8'-3"
7'-8"
7'-0"
9'-10"
9'-0"
8'-3"
7'-7"
7'-0"
2-1200S162-54
4'-2"
3 '-7"
3'-3"
2'-ll"
—
4'-l"
3'-7"
3'-2"
2'- 10"
—
2- 1200S 162-68
7'-7"
6'-7"
5'-9"
5'-0"
4'-2"
7'-6"
6'-6"
5'-8"
4'- 10"
4'-l"
2- 1200S 162-97
11 '-2"
10'- 1"
9'-3"
8'-6"
7'- 10"
11 '-0"
lO'-O"
9'-2"
9'-2"
7'-9"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
1 Ksi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: U360 for live loads, t/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Second floor live load is 40 psf.
Third floor live load is 30 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
245
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(11)
BOX-BEAM HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting Two Floors, Roof and Ceiling
(33 Ksi steel)" b
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(50 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(70 psf)
Building width' (feet)
Building width (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-54
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-68
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-97
2'- 11"
2'-5"
2'-0"
—
—
2'-7"
2'-2"
—
—
—
2-550S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-54
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-68
2'-5"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-97
4'-4"
3'-10"
3'-4"
2'- 10"
2'-5"
4'-0"
3'-6"
3'-l"
2'-7"
2'-2"
2-800S162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-54
— -
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-68
3'-3"
2'-3"
—
—
—
2'-8"
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-97
5'- 11"
5'-2"
4'-6"
4'-0"
3'-5"
5'-6"
4'- 10"
4'-3"
3'-8"
3'-2"
2- 1000S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-1000S 162-54
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-1000S162-68
3'-9"
2'-7"
—
—
—
3'-l"
—
—
—
—
2- 1000S 162-97
7'-0"
6'-2"
5'-5"
4'-9"
4'-2"
6'-6"
5'-9"
5' A"
4'-5"
3'-10"
2- 1200S 162-54
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-1200S162-68
4'-2"
2'- 10"
—
—
—
3'-5"
2'-0"
—
—
—
2- 1200S 162-97
7'-ll"
7'-0"
6'-2"
5'-5"
4'-8"
7'-4"
6'-6"
5'-9"
5'-0"
4'-4"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: t/360 for live loads, i/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Second floor live load is 40 psf.
Third floor live load is 30 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
246
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(12)
BOX-BEAM HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting Two Floors, Roof and Ceiling
(50 Ksi steel) "
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(50 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(70 psf)
Building width (1
eet)
Building width" (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-54
2'-2"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-68
3'-3"
2'-9"
2'-3"
—
—
2'-ll"
2'-5"
—
—
—
2-350S 162-97
4'-6"
4'-3"
3'- 10"
3'-6"
3'-2"
4'-3"
4'-0"
3'-7"
3'-3"
3'-0"
2-550S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
— -
—
—
—
2-550S 162-43
2'-3"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-54
3'-7"
2'- 11"
2'-3"
—
—
3'-3"
2'-7"
—
—
—
2-550S 162-68
4'-9"
2'-l"
3'-6"
3'-0"
2'-5"
4'-4"
3'-9"
3'-2"
2'-8"
2'-l"
2-550S 162-97
6'-5"
6'-l"
5'-7"
5'-l"
4'-8"
6'-3"
5'- 10"
5'-4"
4'- 10"
4'-5"
2-800S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
— -
—
2-800S 162-43
2'-8"
—
—
—
—
2'-2"
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-54
4'-3"
3'-5"
2'-8"
—
—
3'-9"
3'-0"
2'-3"
—
—
2-800S 162-68
5'-8"
4'- 11"
4'-2"
3'-7"
2'- 11"
5'-3"
4'-6"
3'- 10"
3'-3"
2'-7"
2-800S 162-97
8'-9"
8'-0"
7-3"
6'-8"
6'-2"
8'-4"
7'-7"
6'- 11"
6'-4"
5'- 10"
2- 1000S 162-43
2'-4"
2'-0"
—
—
—
2'-2"
—
—
—
—
2- 1000S 162-54
4'-8"
3'-ll"
3'-l"
2'-2"
—
4'-3"
3'-5"
2'-7"
—
—
2- I000S 162-68
6'-5"
5'-7"
4'-9"
4'-l"
3'-4"
5'- 11"
5'-l"
4'-5"
3'-8"
2'- 11"
2- 1000S 162-97
9'-6"
8'-8"
7'-ll"
7'-3"
6'-8"
9'-0"
8'-3"
7'-6"
6'- 11"
6'-4"
2- 1200S 162-54
3'- 11"
3'-5"
3'-0"
2'-4"
—
3'-7"
3'-2"
2'- 10"
—
—
2- 1200S 162-68
7'-l"
6'-2"
5'-3"
4'-6"
3'-8"
6'-6"
5'-8"
4'- 10"
4'-0"
3'-3"
2- 1200S 162-97
10'- 8"
9'-8"
8'- 10"
8'-l"
7'-5"
lO'-l"
9'-2"
8'-5"
7-9"
7'-l"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1 ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/360 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 1 2 psf.
Second floor live load is 40 psf.
Third floor live load is 30 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
247
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(13)
BACK-TO-BACK HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting Roof and Ceiling Only
(33 Ksi steei) a b
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(20 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(30 psf)
Building width 1 (feet)
Building width (f
eet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S162-33
2'- 11"
2'-4"
—
—
—
2'-5"
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
4'-8"
3'- 10"
3'-5"
3'-l"
2'-9"
3'- 11"
3'-5"
3'-0"
2'-8"
2'-4"
2-350S 162-54
5'-3"
4'-9"
4'-4"
4'-l"
3'-8"
4'- 10"
4'-4"
4'-0"
3'-8"
3'-4"
2-350S 162-68
6' 1"
5'-7"
5'-2"
4'- 10"
4'-6"
5'-8"
5'-3"
4'- 10"
4'-6"
4'-2"
2-350S 162-97
7'-3"
6'- 10"
6'-5"
6'-0"
5'-8"
6'-ll"
6'-5"
6'-0"
5'-8"
5'-4"
2-550S 162-33
4'-5"
3'-9"
3'-l"
2'-6"
—
3'-9"
3'-2"
2'-6"
—
—
2-550S 1.62-43
6'-2"
5 '-7"
5'-0"
4'-7"
4'-2"
5'-7"
5'-0"
4'-6"
4'-l"
3'-8"
2-550S 162-54
7'-5"
6'-9"
6'-3"
5'-9"
5'-4"
6'- 10"
6'-3"
5'-9"
5'-4"
4'- 11"
2-550S 162-68
6'-7"
7'- 11"
7'-4"
6'- 10"
6'-5"
8'-0"
7'-4"
6'- 10"
6'-5"
6'-0"
2-550S 162-97
10'-5"
9'-8"
9'-0"
8'-6"
8'-0"
9'-9"
9'-0"
8'-6"
8'-0"
7'-7"
2-800S 162-33
4'-5"
3'-ll"
3'-5"
3'-l"
2'-4"
3'- 11"
3'-6"
3'-0"
2'-3"
—
2-800S 162-43
7'-7"
6'- 10"
6'-2"
5'-8"
5'-2"
6'- 11"
6'-2"
5 '-7"
5'-l"
4'-7"
2-800S 162-54
9'-3"
8'-7"
7'- 11"
7'-4"
6'-10"
8'-8"
7'-ll"
7'-4"
6'-9"
6'-3"
2-800S 162-68
10'-7"
9'- 10"
9'-4"
8'- 10"
8'-5"
9'- 11"
9'-4"
8'-10"
8'-4"
7'- 11"
2-800S 162-97
13'-9"
12'-9"
12'-0"
11 '-3"
10'-8"
12'- 10"
12'-0"
ir-3"
10'-7"
lO'-O"
2-1000S162-43
7'- 10"
6'- 10"
6'-l"
5'-6"
5'-0"
6'- 11"
6'-l"
5'-5"
4'- 11"
4'-6"
2- 1000S 162-54
10'-5"
9'-9"
9'-0"
8'-4"
7'-9"
9'-10"
9'-0"
8'-4"
7'-9"
7'-2"
2- 1000S 162-68
12'-1"
1 1'-3"
10'-8"
lO'-l"
9'-7"
ll'-4"
10'-8"
10'- 1"
9'-7"
9'-l"
2- 1000S 162-97
15'-3"
14'-3"
1 3' 5"
12'-9"
12'-2"
14'-4"
13'-5"
12'-8"
12'-1"
11 '-6"
2- 1200S 162-54
ll'-6"
10'-9"
lO'-O"
9'-0"
8'-2"
10'- 10"
lO'-O"
9'-0"
8'-l"
7'-4"
2- 1200S 162-68
13'-4"
12'-6"
ir-9"
11 '-2"
10'-8"
12'-7"
ll'-lO"
1 1'-2"
10'-7"
10'- 1"
2- 1200S 162-97
16'-8"
15'-7"
14'-8"
13'-11"
13'-3"
15'-8"
14'-8"
13'-11"
13'-2"
12'-7"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/360 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 1 2 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by header.
248
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLER603.6(14)
BACK-TO-BACK HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting Roof and Ceiling Only
(50Ksisteelf
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(20 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(30 psf)
Building width (feet)
Bu
Iding width (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S 162-33
4'-2"
3'-8"
3'-3"
2'- 10"
2'-6"
3'-8"
3'-3"
2'- 10"
2'-5"
2'-l"
2-350S162-43
5 '-5"
5'-0"
4'-6"
4'-2"
3'- 10"
5'-0"
4'-7"
4'-2"
3'- 10"
3'-6"
2-350S 162-54
6'-2"
5'- 10"
5'-8"
5'-4"
5'-0"
5'-ll"
5'-8"
5'-4"
5'-0"
4'-8"
2-350S162-68
6'-7"
6'-3"
6'-0"
5'- 10"
5'-8"
6'-4"
6'-l"
5'- 10"
5'-8"
5'-6"
2-350S 162-97
7'-3"
6'- 11"
6'-8"
6'-5"
6'-3"
7'-0"
6'-8"
6'-5"
6'-3"
6'-0"
2-550S 162-33
5'- 10"
5'-3"
4'-8"
4'-3"
3'-9"
5'-3"
4'-9"
4'-2"
3'-9"
3'-3"
2-550S 162-43
7 '-9"
7'-2"
6'-7"
6'-l"
5'-8"
7'-3"
6'-7"
6'-l"
5'-8"
5'-3"
2-550S 162-54
8'-9"
8'-5"
8'-l"
7'-9"
7'-5"
8'-6"
8'-l"
7'-9"
7'-5"
6'-l 1"
2-550S 162-68
9'-5"
9'-0"
8'-8"
8'-4"
8'-l"
9'-l"
8'-8"
8'-4"
8'-l"
7'- 10"
2-550S 162-97
10'-5"
JO'-O"
9'-7"
9'-3"
9'-0"
lO'-O"
9'-7"
9'-3"
8'-ll"
8'- 8"
2-800S 162-33
4'-5"
3'- 11"
3'-5"
3'-l"
2'- 10"
3'- 11"
3'-6"
3'-l"
2'-9"
2'-6"
2-800S162-43
9'-l"
8'-5"
7'-8"
6'- 11"
6'-3"
8'-6"
7'-8"
6'- 10"
6'-2"
5'-8"
2-800S 162-54
10'- 10"
10'-2"
9'-7"
9'-l"
8'-8"
10'-2"
9'-7"
9'-0"
8'-7"
8'-l"
2-800S 162-68
12'-8"
11 '-10"
11 '-2"
10'-7"
10'- 1"
ll'-U"
11 '-2"
10'-7"
lO'-O"
9'-7"
2-800S 162-97
14'-2"
13'-6"
13'-0"
12'-7"
12'-2"
13'-8"
13'-1"
12'-7"
12'-2"
11 '-9"
2-1000S 162-43
7- 10"
6'-10"
6'-l"
5'-6"
5'-0"
6'-l 1"
6'-l"
5'-5"
4'-ll"
4'-6"
2- 1000S 162-54
12'-3"
11 '-5"
10'-9"
10'-3"
9'-9"
11 '-6"
10'-9"
10'-2"
9'-8"
8'-ll"
2- 1000S 162-68
14'-5"
13'-5"
12'-8"
12'-0"
11 '-6"
13'-6"
12'-8"
12'-0"
11 '-5"
lO'-l 1"
2- 1000S 162-97
17'-1"
16'-4"
15'-8"
14'- 11"
14'-3"
16'-5"
15'-9"
14'- 10"
14'-1"
13'-6"
2- 1200S 162-54
12'- 11"
11 '-3"
lO'-O"
9'-0"
8'-2"
11 '-5"
lO'-O"
9'-0"
8'-l"
7'-4"
2- 1200S 162-68
15'-11"
14'- 10"
14'-0"
13'-4"
12'-8"
15'-0"
14'-0"
13'-3"
12'-7"
12'-0"
2- 1200S 162-97
19'-11"
18'-7"
17'-6"
16'-8"
15'10"
18'-9"
17'-7"
16'-7"
15'-9"
15'-0"
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6 895 kPa
I Ksi= 1,000 psi= 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/360 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
249
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLER603.6(15)
BACK-TO-BACK HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting Roof and Ceiling Only
(33 Ksi steel)"' b
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(50 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(70 psf)
Building width' (f
set)
Building width (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
2'-6"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-54
3'-6"
3'-l"
2'-8"
2'-4"
2'-0"
2'-7"
2'-l"
—
—
—
2-350S 162-68
4'-4"
3' 11"
3'-7"
3'-3"
2'- 11"
3'-5"
3'-0"
2'-8"
2'-4"
2'-l"
2-350S 162-97
5'-5"
5'-0"
4'-8"
4'-6"
4'-l"
4'-6"
4'-2"
3'- 10"
3'-6"
3'-3"
2-550S162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S162-43
3'- 10"
3'-3"
2'-9"
2'-2"
_
2'-6"
—
—
—
2-550S 162-54
5'-l"
4'-7"
4'-l"
3'-8"
3'-4"
3'-ll"
3'-5"
2'- 11"
2'-6"
2'-0"
2-550S 162-68
6'-2"
5'-8"
5'-2"
4'-9"
4'-5"
5'-0"
4'-6"
4'-)"
3'-9"
3'-4"
2-550S 162-97
7'-9"
7'-2"
6'-8"
6'-3"
5'-ll"
6'-6"
6'-0"
5'-7"
5'-2"
4'- 10"
2- 800S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-43
4'- 10"
4'-l"
3'-6"
2'-ll"
2'-3"
3'-3"
2'-5"
—
—
—
2-800S162-54
6'-6"
5'- 10"
5'-3"
4'-9"
4'-4"
5'-l"
4'-6"
3'-ll"
3'-4"
2'- 10"
2-800S 162-68
8'-l"
7'-5"
6'- 10"
6'-4"
5'- 11"
6'-8"
6'-l"
5'-6"
5'-0"
4'-7"
2-800S 162-97
10'-3"
9'-7"
8'-ll"
8'-5"
7'- 11"
8'-8"
8'-0"
7-6"
7-0"
6'-7"
2-1000S162-43
4'-8"
4'-l"
3'-8"
3'-4"
2'-8"
3'-6"
2'- 10"
—
—
—
2- 1000S 162-54
7'-5"
6'-8"
6'-l"
5'-6"
5'-0"
5'-10"
5'-l"
4'-6"
3'-ll"
3'-4"
2- 1000S 162-68
9'-4"
8'-7"
7'- 11"
7'-4"
6'-10"
7'-8"
7'-0"
6'-4"
5'- 10"
5'-4"
2- 1000S 162-97
11 '-9"
ll'-O"
10'-5"
9'-ll"
9'-5"
10'-3"
9'-7"
8'- 11"
8'-4"
7- 10"
2-1200S162-54
7'-8"
6'-9"
6'-l"
5'-6"
5'-0"
5'- 10"
5'-l"
4'-7"
4'-l"
3'-9"
2- 1200S 162-68
10'-4"
9'-6"
8'- 10"
8'-2"
7'-7"
8'-7"
7'-9"
7-1"
6'-6"
6'-0"
2- 1200S 162-97
12'- 10"
12'-1"
1 1/5"
10'- 10"
10'-4"
11 '-2"
10'-6"
9'- 11"
9'-5"
9'-0"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
1 Ksi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: i/360 for live loads, Z/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
250
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 18
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLER603.6(16)
BACK-TO-BACK HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting Roof and Ceiling Only
(50 Ksi steel) 3 ' "
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(50 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(70 psf)
Building width (feet)
Building width (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S162-33
2'-3"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
3'-8"
3'-3"
2'- 10"
2'-6"
2'-2"
2'-8"
2'-3"
—
—
—
2-350S162-54
4'-9"
4'-4"
4'-0"
3'-8"
3'-8"
3'- 10"
3'-5"
3'-l"
2'-9"
2'-5"
2-350S 162-68
5'-7"
5'-4"
5'-2"
4'-ll"
4'-7"
5'-l"
4'-8"
4'-3"
3'-l 1"
3'-8"
2-350S 162-97
6'-2"
5'- 11"
5'-8"
5'-6"
5'-4"
5'-8"
5'-5"
5'-3"
5'-0"
4'- 11"
2-550S162-33
3'-6"
2'-10"
2'-3"
—
—
2'-0"
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-43
5'-5"
4'- 10"
4'-4"
3'- 11"
3'-6"
4'-2"
3'-8"
3'-2"
2'-8"
2'-3"
2-550S 162-54
7'-2"
6'-6"
6'-0"
5'-7"
5 '-2"
5'-10"
5'-3"
4'- 10"
4'-5"
4'-0"
2-550S162-68
8'-0"
7'-8"
7'-3"
6'-ll"
6'-6"
7'-2"
6'-7"
6'-l"
5'-8"
5'-4"
2-550S 162-97
8'- 11"
8'-6"
8'-2"
7'- 11"
7'-8"
8'-l"
7'-9"
7'-6"
7'-2"
6'- 11"
2-800S 162-33
2'-8"
2'-4"
2'-1"
l'-l 1"
—
2'-0"
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-43
5'- 10"
5'-2"
4'-7"
4'-2"
3'- 10"
4'-5"
3'- 11"
3'-6"
3'-2"
2'-9"
2-80OS 162-54
8'-4"
7'-8"
7'-l"
6'-7"
6'-l"
6'- 10"
6'-3"
5'-8"
5'-2"
4'-9"
2-800S 162-68
9'-9"
9'-2"
8'-8"
8'-3"
7'-10"
8'-6"
7'- 11"
7'-4"
6'- 10"
6'-5"
2-800S 162-97
12'-1"
1 1'-7"
1 1'-2"
10'-8"
10'-2"
11 '-0"
10'-4"
9'-9"
9'-3"
8'-10"
2- IOO0S 162-43
4'-8"
4'-1"
2'-8"
3'-4"
3'-0"
3 '-6"
lO'-l"
2'-9"
2'-6"
2'-3"
2-1000S 162-54
9'-3"
8'-2"
7'-3"
6'-7"
6'-0"
7'-0"
6'-2"
5'-6"
5'-0"
4'-6"
2-1000S 162-68
1 l'-l"
10'-5"
9'-10"
9'-4"
8'- 11"
9'-8"
9'-l"
8'-5"
7'- 10"
7 '-4"
2- 1000S 162-97
!3'-9"
12'-U"
12'-2"
11 '-7"
ll'-l"
ll'-l 1"
ll'-3"
10'-7"
10'- 1"
9'-7"
2- 1200S 162-54
7'-8"
6'-9"
6'-l"
5'-6"
5'-0"
5'- 10"
5'-l"
4'-7"
4'-l"
3'-9"
2- 1200S 162-68
12'-3"
11 '-6"
lO'-ll"
10'-4"
9'-1 1"
10'-8"
]0'-0"
9'-2"
8'-4"
7'-7"
2-1 200S 162-97
15'-4"
14'-5"
13'-7"
12'-11"
12'-4"
13'-4"
12'-6"
11'- 10"
11 '-3"
10'-9"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/360 for live loads, 1/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE" 3
251
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(17)
BACK-TO-BACK HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting One Floor, Roof and Ceiling
(33 Ksi steel) at
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(20 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(30 psf)
Building width (feet)
Building width c (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
2'-2"
—
—
—
—
2'-l"
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-54
3'-3"
2'-9"
2'-5"
2'-0"
—
3'-2"
2'-9"
2'-4"
—
—
2-350S 162-68
4'-4"
3'-8"
3'-3"
2'- 11"
2'-8"
4'-0"
3'-7"
3'-2"
2'-ll"
2'-7"
2-350S 162-97
5'-2"
4'-9"
4'-4"
4'-l"
3'-9"
5'-l"
4'-8"
4'-4"
4'-0"
3'-9"
2-550S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-43
3'-6"
2'- 10"
2'-3"
—
—
3'-5"
2'-9"
2'-2"
—
—
2-550S 162-54
4'-9"
4'-2"
3'-9"
3'-3"
2'- 10"
4'- 8"
4'-l"
3'-8"
3'-2"
2'-9"
2-550S162-68
5'- 10"
5'-3"
4'- 10"
4'-5"
4'-l"
5'-9"
5'-3"
4'-9"
4'-4"
4'-0"
2-550S 162-97
7'-4"
6'-9"
6'-4"
5'- 11"
5'-6"
7'-3"
6'-9"
6'-3"
5'-10"
5'-5"
2-800S162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S162-43
4'-4"
3'-8"
2'-ll"
2'-3"
—
4'-3"
3'-6"
2'- 10"
2'-l"
—
2-800S 162-54
6'-l"
5'-5"
4'- 10"
4'-4"
3'-10"
6'-0"
5'-4"
4'-9"
4'-3"
3'-9"
2-800S 162-68
7'-8"
7'-0"
6'-5"
5'-ll"
5'-5"
7'-7"
6'-ll"
6'-4"
5'- 10"
5'-4"
2-800S 162-97
9'- 10"
9'-l"
8'-5"
7'- 11"
7'-5"
9'-8"
8'- 11"
8'-4"
7'- 10"
7'-4"
2- 1000S 162-43
4'-4"
3'-9"
3'-4"
2'-8"
—
4'-3"
3'-8"
3'-3"
2'-6"
—
2- I000S 162-54
6'- 11"
6'-2"
5'-6"
5'-0"
4'-5"
6'- 10"
6'-l"
5'-5"
4'- 10"
4'-4"
2- 1000S 162-68
8'- 10"
8'-l"
7'-5"
6'- 10"
6'-4"
8'-8"
7'- 11"
7'-3"
6'-8"
6'-2"
2- 1000S 162-97
11 '-3"
10'-7"
9'-ll"
9'-5"
8'- 10"
11 '-2"
10'-5"
9'- 10"
9'-3"
8'-9"
2- 1200S 162-54
7'-l"
6'-2"
5'-6"
5'-0"
4'-6"
6'- 11"
6'-l"
5'-5"
4'-10"
4'-5"
2- 1200S 162-68
9'-10"
9'-0"
8'-3"
7'-7"
7'-0"
9'-8"
8'-10"
8'-l"
7'-6"
6'-ll"
2-1200S162-97
12'-4"
11 '-7"
10'- 11"
10'-4"
9'-10"
12'-3"
11 '-5"
10'-9"
10'-3"
9'-9"
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: 1/360 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 1 2 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
252
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE' 8
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLER603.6(18)
BACK-TO-BACK HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting One Floor, Roof and Ceil
(50 Ksi steel) a b
mg
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(20 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(30 psf)
Building width (feet)
Building width (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
3'-4"
2'-ll"
2'-6"
2'-2"
—
3'-3"
2'- 10"
2'-5"
2'-l"
—
2-350S 162-54
4'-6"
4'-l"
3'-8"
3'-4"
3'-0"
4'-5"
4'-0"
3'-7"
3'-3"
2'- 11"
2-350S 162-68
5'-0"
4'-9"
4'-7"
4'-5"
4'-3"
4'-ll"
4'-8"
4'-6"
4'-4"
4'-2"
2-350S 162-97
5'-6"
5'-3"
5'-l"
4'-ll"
4'-9"
5'-5"
5'-2"
5'-0"
4'- 10"
4'-8"
2-550S 162-33
3'-l"
2'-5"
—
—
—
3'-0"
2'-3"
—
—
—
2-550S162-43
5'-l"
4'-6"
4'-0"
3'-6"
3'-l"
4'- 11"
4'-5"
3'- 11"
3'-5"
3'-0"
2-550S 162-54
6'-8"
6'-2"
5'-7"
5'-2"
4'-9"
6'-6"
6'-0"
5'-6"
5'-l"
4'-8"
2-550S 162-68
7'-2"
6'- 10"
6'-7"
6'-4"
6'-1"
7'-0"
6'-9"
6'-6"
6'-3"
6'-0"
2-550S 162-97
7'-ll"
7-7"
7-3"
7'-0"
6'-10"
7'-9"
7'-5"
7'-2"
6'-ll"
6'-9"
2-800S 162-33
2'-5"
2'-2"
l'-ll"
—
—
2'-5"
2'-l"
I'-IO"
—
—
2-800S 162-43
5'-5"
4'-9"
4'-3"
3'-9"
3'-5"
5'-3"
4'-8"
4'-l"
3'-9"
3'-5"
2-800S 162-54
7'- 11"
7-2"
6'-7"
6'-l"
5'-7"
7-9"
7'-l"
6'-6"
6'-0"
5'-6"
2-800S 162-68
9'-5"
8'-9"
8'-3"
7'-9"
7'-4"
9'-3"
8'-8"
8'-2"
7'-8"
7'-3"
2-800S 162-97
10'-9"
10'-3"
9'-ll"
9'-7"
9'-3"
10'-7"
lO'-l"
9'-9"
9'-5"
9'-l"
2- 1000S 162-43
4'-4"
3'-9"
3'-4"
3'-0"
2'-9"
4'-3"
3'-8"
3'-3"
2'-ll"
2'-8"
2- 1000S 162-54
8'-6"
7'-5"
6'-8"
6'-0"
5'-5"
8'-4"
7'-4"
6'-6"
5'- 10"
5'-4"
2- 1000S 162-68
10'-8"
lO'-O"
9'-5"
8'-ll"
8'-4"
10'-7"
9'- 10"
9'-4"
8'-9"
8'-3"
2- 1000S 162-97
12' 1 1"
12'-4"
11 '-8"
ll'-l"
10' 6"
12'-9"
12'-2"
11 '-6"
10'- 11"
10'-5"
2- 1200S 162-54
7'-l"
6'-2"
5'-6"
5'-0"
4'-6"
6'- 11"
6'-l"
5'-5"
4'- 10"
4'-5"
2- 1200S 162-68
11 '-9"
ll'-O"
10'-5"
9'- 10"
9'-l"
ll'-8"
10'- 11"
10'-3"
9'-9"
8'- 11"
2- 1200S 162-97
14'-9"
13'-9"
13'-0"
12'-4"
11 '-9"
14'-7"
13'-8"
12'- 10"
l2'-3"
11 '-8"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: 1/360 for live loads, £/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 1 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
253
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLER603.6(19)
BACK-TO-BACK HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting One Floor, Roof and Ceiling
(33 Ksi steel) - b
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(50 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(70 psf)
Building width' (f
eet)
Building width (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-54
2'-4"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-68
3'-3"
2'- 10"
2'-6"
2'-2"
—
2'-7"
2'-2"
—
—
—
2-350S 162-97
4'-4"
4'-0"
3'-8"
3'-4"
3'-l"
3'-9"
3'-4"
3'-l"
2'-9"
2'-6"
2-550S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-43
2'-2"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S162-54
3'-8"
3'-2"
2'-8"
2'-3"
—
2'-10"
2'-3"
—
—
—
2-550S 162-68
4'-9"
4'-4"
3'- 11"
3'-6"
3'-2"
4'-0"
3'-6"
3'-l"
2'-9"
2'-4"
2-550S162-97
6'-3"
5'-9"
5'-4"
5'-0"
4'-8"
5'-6"
5'-0"
4'-7"
4'-3"
3'-ll"
2-800S162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-43
2'- 11"
2'-0"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-54
4'-9"
4'-2"
3'-7"
3'-l"
2'-7"
3'-9"
3'-l"
2'-5"
—
—
2-800S 162-68
6'-4"
5'-9"
5'-3"
4'-9"
4'-4"
5'-4"
4'-9"
4'-3"
3'-10"
3'-4"
2-800S 162-97
8'-5"
7'-9"
7'-3"
6'-9"
6'-4"
7'-4"
6'-9"
6'-3"
5 '-10"
5'-5"
2- 1000S 162-43
3'-4"
2'-5"
—
—
—
— -
—
—
—
—
2- 1000S 162-54
5'-6"
4'- 10"
4'-2"
3'-7"
3'-0"
4'-4"
3'-7"
2'-ll"
2'-2"
—
2-1 000S 162-68
7'-4"
6'-8"
6'-l"
5'-7"
5'-l"
6'-3"
5'-7"
5'-0"
4'-5"
4'-0"
2- 1000S 162-97
9'- 11"
8'-3"
8'-7"
8'-1"
7'-7"
8'-9"
8'-l"
7'-6"
7'-0"
6'-6"
2- 1200S 162-54
5'-6"
4'- 10"
4'-4"
3'- 11"
3'-5"
4'-5"
3'- 11"
3'-3"
2'-6"
—
2- 1200S 162-68
8'-2"
7'-5"
6'-9"
6'-3"
5'-8"
6'-l 1"
6'-3"
5'-7"
5'-0"
4'-6"
2- 1200S 162-97
10'- 10"
10'-2"
9'-8"
9'-2"
8'-7"
9'-9"
9'-2"
8'-6"
7'- 11"
7'-5"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
1 Ksi = 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/360 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
254
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(20)
BACK-TO-BACK HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting One Floor, Roof and Ceiling
(50 Ksisteel) ab
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(50 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(70 psf)
Building width c (feet)
Building width (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
2'-6"
2'-0"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-54
3'-8"
3'-3"
2'-l 1"
2'-7"
2'-3"
3'-0"
2'-7"
2'-2"
—
—
2-350S 162-68
4'-7"
4'-5"
4'-l"
3 '-9"
3'-6"
4'-2"
3'-9"
3'-5"
3'-l"
2'- 10"
2-350S 162-97
5'-l"
4'-10"
4'-8"
4'-6"
4'-5"
4'-10"
4'-7"
4'-5"
4'-3"
4'-l"
2-550S162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-43
3'- 11"
3'-5"
2'- 11"
2'-5"
—
3'-0"
2'-5"
—
—
—
2-550S 162-54
5'-7"
5'-0"
4'-7"
4'-2"
3'-9"
4'-8"
4'-2"
3'-8"
3'-3"
2'-1l"
2-550S 162-68
6'-7"
6'-4"
5'- 11"
5'-6"
5'-l"
6'-0"
5'-6"
5'-0"
4'-7"
4'-3"
2-550S 162-97
7'-4"
7'-0"
6'-9"
6'-6"
6'-4"
6'- 11"
6'-8"
6'-5"
6'-2"
6'-0"
2-800S 162-33
l'-ll"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-43
4'-2"
3'-8"
3'-4"
3'-0"
2'-6"
3'-5"
3'-0"
2'-4"
—
—
2-800S 162-54
6'-7"
5'-ll"
5'-5"
4'-ll"
4'-6"
5'-6"
4'-ll"
4'-5"
3'- 11"
3'-6"
2-800S 162-68
8'-3"
7'-8"
7'-l"
6'-8"
6'-2"
7'-3"
6'-7"
6'-l"
5'-7"
5'-2"
2-800S 162-97
9'-l 1"
9'-6"
9'-2"
8'- 10"
8 '-7"
9'-5"
9'-0"
8'-7"
8'-2"
7'-9"
2-1000S162-43
3'-4"
2'-1 1"
2'-7"
2'-5"
2'-2"
2'-8"
2'-5"
2'-2"
l'-ll"
—
2- 1000S 162-54
6'-7"
5'-10"
5'-3"
4'-9"
4'-4"
5'-4"
4'-9"
4'-3"
3'- 10"
3 '-6"
2- 1000S 162-68
9'-4"
8'-9"
8'-l"
7'-7"
7'-l"
8'-3"
7'-7"
6'- 11"
6'-5"
5'- 11"
2-1000S162-97
11 '-!"
lO'-ll"
10'-4"
9'- 10"
9'-5"
10'-5"
9'- 10"
9'-3"
8'-10"
8'-5"
2- 1200S 162-54
5'-6"
4'- 10"
4'-4"
3'-ll"
3'-7"
4'-5"
3'- 11"
3'-6"
3'-2"
2'- 11"
2- 1200S 162-68
10'-4"
9'-8"
8'-8"
7'- 11"
7'-2"
8'- 11"
7'- 11"
T-\"
6'-5"
5'- 10"
2- 1200S 162-97
12'-11"
12'-2"
11 '-6"
1 l'-O"
10'-6"
1 1'-8"
ll'-O"
10'-5"
9'- 10"
9'-5"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6 895 kPa
1 Ksi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: 1/360 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Second floor live load is 30 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 81
255
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(21)
BACK-TO-BACK HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting Two Floors, Roof and Ceiling
(33 Ksi steel) 3 ' b
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(20 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(30 psf)
DESIGNATION
Building width" (feet)
Building width (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-54
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-68
2'-5"
—
—
—
—
2'-4"
—
—
—
—
2-350S .162-97
3'-6"
3'-2"
2'- 10"
2'-6"
2'-3"
3'-6"
3'-l"
2'-9"
2'-6"
2'-3"
2-550S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S162-54
2'-6"
—
—
—
—
2'-5"
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-68
3'-9"
3'-3"
2'-9"
2'-4"
—
3'-8"
3'-2"
2'-9"
2'-4"
—
2-550S 162-97
5'-3"
4'-9"
4'-4"
3'-ll"
3'-8"
5'-2"
4'-8"
4'-3"
3'-ll"
3'-7"
2-800S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-54
3'-5"
2'-8"
—
—
—
3'-4"
2'-7"
—
—
—
2-800S 162-68
5'-l"
4'-5"
3'- 11"
3'-4"
2'- 11"
5'-0"
4'-4"
3'- 10"
3'-4"
2'- 10"
2-800S 162-97
7'-0"
6'-5"
5'- 11"
5'-5"
5'-0"
7'-0"
6'-4"
5'- 10"
5'-5"
5'-0"
2-1000S162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2- 1000S 162-54
3'- 11"
3'-l"
2'-3"
—
—
3'- 10"
3'-0"
2'-2"
—
—
2- 1000S 162-68
5'-10"
5'-2"
4'-6"
4'-0"
3'-5"
5'-9"
5'-l"
4'-6"
3'-U"
3'-4"
2- 1000S 162-97
8'-5"
7'-8"
7'-l"
6'-6"
6'-l"
8'-4"
7'-7"
7'-0"
6'-6"
6'-0"
2- 1200S 162-54
4'-2"
3'-6"
2'-7"
—
—
4'-l"
3'-5"
2'-6"
—
—
2- 1200S 162-68
6'-6"
5'-9"
5'-l"
4'-6"
3'-l 1"
6'-6"
5'-8"
5'-0"
4'-5"
3'-10"
2- 1200S 162-97
9'-5"
8'-8"
8'-0"
7'-5"
6'- 11"
9'-5"
8'-7"
7'- 1.1"
7'-4"
6'- 10"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
1 Ksi= 1 ,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: Z7360 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Second floor live load is 40 psf.
Third floor live load is 30 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
256
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(22)
BACK-TO-BACK HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting Two Floors, Roof and Ceiling
(50 Ksi steel) 3 ' b
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(20 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(30 psf)
Building width (f
eet)
Building width" (f
eet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-54
2'-9"
2'-3"
— -
—
—
2'-8"
2'-3"
—
—
—
2-350S 162-68
3'- 11"
3'-6"
3'-2"
2'- 10"
2'-6"
3'-ll"
3'-6"
3'-l"
2'-9"
2'-6"
2-350S 162-97
4'-9"
4'-6"
4'-4"
4'-l"
3'- 10"
4'-8"
4'-6"
4'-4"
4'-l"
3'-9"
2-550S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-43
2'-9"
2'-0"
—
—
—
2'-8"
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-54
4'-5"
3'- 10"
3'-4"
2'-ll"
2'-5"
4'-4"
3'-9"
3'-3"
2'-10"
2'-5"
2-550S 162-68
5'- 8"
5'-2"
4'-8"
4'-3"
3'-ll"
5'-8"
5'-l"
4'-8"
4'-3"
3'- 10"
2-550S 162-97
6'- 10"
6'-6"
6'-3"
6'-0"
5'-7"
6'-9"
6'-5"
6'-3"
5'- 11"
5'-6"
2-800S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-43
3'-2"
2'-7"
—
—
—
3'-l"
2'-6"
—
—
—
2-800S 162-54
5'-2"
4'-7"
4'-0"
3'-6"
3'-0"
5'-2"
4'-6"
3'-ll"
3'-5"
2'- 11"
2-800S 162-68
6'- 11"
6'-3"
5'-8"
5'-2"
4'-9"
6'- 10"
6'-2"
5'-7"
5'-2"
4'-8"
2-800S 162-97
9'-3"
8'-8"
8'-3"
7'-9"
7'-4"
9'-2"
8'-8"
8'-2"
7'-9"
7'-4"
2- 1000S 162-43
2'-6"
2'-2"
2'-0"
—
—
2'-6"
2'-2"
l'-ll"
—
—
2- 1000S 162-54
5'-0"
. 4'-4"
3'-ll"
3'-6"
3'-2"
4'- 11"
4'-4"
3'- 10"
3'-6"
3'-2"
2-1000S162-68
7'- 10"
7'-2"
6'-6"
5'-ll"
5'-6"
7'-9"
7'-l"
6'-5"
5'- 11"
5'-5"
2- 1000S 162-97
10'- 1"
9'-5"
8'-ll"
8'-6"
8'-0"
lO'-O"
9'-5"
8'- 10"
8'-5"
7'- 11"
2- 1200S 162-54
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2- 1200S 162-68
7'-4"
6'-8"
6'-l"
5'-6"
5'-l"
7'-3"
6'-7"
6'-0"
5'-6"
5'-0"
2- 1200S 162-97
9'-5"
8'-8"
8'-l"
7'-6"
7'-l"
9'-4"
8'-8"
8'-0"
7'-6"
7'-0"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 ram, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
lKsi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/360 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Second floor live load is 40 psf.
Third floor live load is 30 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
257
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(23)
BACK-TO-BACK HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting Two Floors, Roof and Ceiling
(33 Ksi steel) 3 ' b
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(50 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(70 psf)
Building width (feet)
Building width (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
—
—
—
_
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-54
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S162-68
2'-2"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S162-97
3 '-3"
3'-0"
2'-8"
2'-4"
2'-l"
3'-l"
2'-9"
2'-6"
2'-2"
—
2-550S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S162-54
2'-2"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-68
3'-6"
3'-0"
2'-6"
2'-l"
~
3'-2"
2'-9"
2'-3"
—
—
2-550S 162-97
5'-0"
4'-6"
4'-l"
3'-9"
3'-5"
4'-8"
4'-3"
3'-ll"
3'-7"
3'-3"
2-800S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-43
—
—
~-
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-54
3'-0"
2'-3"
—
—
—
2'-7"
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-68
4'-9"
4'-2"
3'-7"
3'-l"
2'-7"
4'-5"
3'-10"
3'-3"
2'-9"
2'-3"
2-800S 162-97
6'-9"
6'-l"
5'-7"
5'-2"
4'-9"
6'-4"
5'-10"
5'-4"
4'-ll"
4'-7"
2- 1000S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2- 1000S 162-54
3'-6"
2'-8"
—
—
—
3'-l"
2'-2"
—
—
—
2-1000S162-68
5'-6"
4'- 10"
4'-2"
3'-7"
3'4"
5'-l"
4'-6"
3'-1.0"
3'-4"
2'-9"
2-1000S162-97
8'-0"
7'-4"
6'-9"
6'-3"
5'-9"
7'-7"
7'-0"
6'-5"
5'-ll"
5'-6"
2-I200S162-54
3'-l 1"
3'-0"
2'-0"
—
—
3'-5"
2'-6"
—
—
—
2- 1200S 162-68
6'-2"
5'-5"
4'-9"
4'-l"
3'-6"
5'-9"
5'-0"
4'-4"
3'-9"
3'-2"
2- 1200S 162-97
9'-l"
8'-4"
7'-8"
7'-l"
6'-7"
8'-8"
7'-U"
7'-4"
6'-9"
6'-3"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
lKsi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/360 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 10 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Second floor live load is 40 psf.
Third floor live load is 30 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
258
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.6(24)
BACK-TO-BACK HEADER SPANS
Headers Supporting Two Floors, Roof and Ceiling
(50Ksisteel) ab
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(50 psf)
GROUND SNOW LOAD
(70 psf)
Building width°(feet)
Building width (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
24
28
32
36
40
2-350S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-43
—
—
—
— -
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-54
2'-6"
2'-l"
—
—
—
2'-3"
—
—
—
—
2-350S 162-68
3'-9"
3'-4"
2'-ll"
2'-7"
2'-4"
3'-6"
3'-l"
2'-9"
2'-5"
2'-2"
2- 350S 162-97
4'-6"
4'-4"
4'-2"
3'-ll"
3'-8"
4'-4"
4'-2"
4'-0"
3'-9"
3'-6"
2-550S162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-43
2'-5"
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-550S 162-54
4'-l"
3'-7"
3'-l"
2'-7"
2'-2"
3'- 10"
3'-3"
2'- 10"
2'-4"
—
2-550S 162-68
5'-5"
4'- 11"
4'-5"
4'-0"
3'-8"
5'-l"
4'-7"
4'-2"
3'- 10"
3'-5"
2-550S 162-97
6'-5"
6'-2"
5'-ll"
5'-9"
5'-4"
6'-3"
6'-0"
5'-9"
5'-6"
5'-2"
2-800S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2-800S 162-43
2'- 11"
2'-2"
—
—
—
2'-6"
— n
—
—
—
2-800S 162-54
4'- 11"
4'-3"
3'-8"
3'-2"
2'-8"
4'-6"
3'- 11"
3'-5"
2'- 11"
2'-4"
2-800S 162-68
6'-7"
5'-ll"
5'-4"
4'-ll"
4'-6"
6'-2"
5'-7"
5'-l"
4'-8"
4'-3"
2-800S 162-97
8'-9"
8'-5"
7'-ll"
7'-6"
7'-0"
8'-5"
8'-l"
7'-9"
7'-3"
6'- 10"
2-1000S162-43
2'-4"
2'-l"
—
—
—
2'-2"
l'-ll"
—
—
—
2-1000S 162-54
4'- 8"
4'-l"
3'-8"
3'-3"
3'-0"
4'-4"
3'-10"
3 '-5"
3'-l"
2'-9"
2- 1000S 162-68
7'-6"
6'-9"
6'-2"
5'-8"
5'-2"
7'-l"
6'-5"
5'- 10"
5'-4"
4'- 11"
2- 1000S 162-97
9'-9"
9'-2"
8'-7"
8'-2"
7'-8"
9'-5"
8'- 10"
8'-5"
7'- 11"
7'-5"
2- 1200S 162-54
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
2- 1200S 162-68
7'-0"
6'-4"
5'-9"
5'-3"
4'-9"
6'-7"
6'-0"
5 '-5"
5'-0"
4'-6"
2- I200S 162-97
9'-l"
8'-4"
7'-9"
7'-3"
6'-9"
8'-8"
8'-0"
7'-6"
7'-0"
6'-7"
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
1 Ksi= 1,000 psi = 6.895 MPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/360 for live loads, L/240 for total loads.
b. Design load assumptions:
Second floor dead load is 1 psf.
Roof/ceiling dead load is 12 psf.
Second floor live load is 40 psf.
Third floor live load is 30 psf.
Attic live load is 10 psf.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the header.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
259
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R603.6.1 Headers in gable endwalls. Box beam and
back-to-back headers in gable endwalls shall be permitted
to be constructed in accordance with Section R603.6 or
with the header directly above the opening in accordance
with Figures R603.6.1(l) and R603.6.1(2) and the follow-
ing provisions:
1. Two 362S162-33 for openings less than or equal to
4 feet (1219 mm).
2. Two 600S 162-43 for openings greater than 4 feet
(1219 mm) but less than or equal to 6 feet (1830
mm).
3. Two 800S 162-54 for openings greater than 6 feet
(1829 mm) but less than or equal to 9 feet (2743
mm).
R603.7 Jack and king studs. The number of jack and king
studs installed on each side of a header shall comply with
Table R603.7(l ). King, jack and cripple studs shall be of the
same dimension and thickness as the adjacent wall studs.
Headers shall be connected to king studs in accordance with
Table R603.7(2) and the following provisions:
1 . For box beam headers, one-half of the total number of
required screws shall be applied to the header and one
half to the king stud by use of C- shaped or track mem-
ber in accordance with Figure R603.6(l). The track or
C-shape sections shall extend the depth of the header
minus 7 2 inch (12.7 mm) and shall have a minimum
thickness not less than that of the wall studs.
2. For back-to-back headers, one-half the total number of
screws shall be applied to the header and one-half to the
king stud by use of a minimum 2-inch by 2-inch (51
mm by 51 mm) clip angle in accordance with Figure
R603.6(2). The clip angle shall extend the depth of the
header minus V, inch (12.7 mm) and shall have a mini-
mum thickness not less than that of the wall studs. Jack
and king studs shall be interconnected with structural
sheathing in accordance with Figures R603.6(l) and
R603.6(2).
KING STUD(S)
TRACK OR C-SHAPE
JACK STUD(S)
CRIPPLE STUD
HEAD TRACK
C-SHAPES
FIGURE R603.6.1(1)
BOX BEAM HEADER IN GABLE ENDWALL
KING STUD(S)
2 IN. *2IN. CLIP ANGLE
JACK STUD(S)
CRIPPLE STUD
HEAD TRACK
C-SHAPES
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R603.6.1(2)
BACK-TO-BACK HEADER IN GABLE ENDWALL
260
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R603.7(1)
TOTAL NUMBER OF JACK AND KING STUDS REQUIRED AT EACH END OF AN OPENING
SIZE OF OPENING
(feet-Inches)
24-INCH O.C. STUD SPACING
16-INCH O.C. STUD SPACING
No. of jack studs
No. of king studs
No. of jack studs
No. of king studs
Up to 3 '-6"
I
1
1
1
> 3'-6" to 5'-0"
1
2
1
2
> 5'-0" to 5'-6"
1
2
2
2
> 5'-6" to 8'-0"
1
2
2
2
> 8'-0" to 10'-6"
2
2
2
3
>10'-6"to 12'-0"
2
2
3
3
>12'-0"to l.3'-0"
2
3
3
3
>13'-0"tol4'-0"
2
3
3
4
>14'-0"tol6'-0"
2
3
3
4
>16'-0"tol8'-0"
3
3
4
4
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
TABLE R603.7(2)
HEADER TO KING STUD CONNECTION REQUIREMENTS 3 ' bcd
HEADER SPAN
(feet)
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph), EXPOSURE
85 B or Seismic Design
Categories A, B, C, D„, D, and D 2
85 C or less than 110 B
Less than 110 C
<4'
4-No. 8 screws
4-No. 8 screws
6-No. 8 screws
> 4' to 8'
4-No. 8 screws
4-No. 8 screws
8-No. 8 screws
> 8' to 12'
4-No. 8 screws
6-No. 8 screws
1 0-No. 8 screws
> 12' to 16'
4-No. 8 screws
8-No. 8 screws
12-No. 8 screws
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound = 4.448 N.
a. All screw sizes shown are minimum.
b. For headers located on the first floor of a two-story building or the first or second floor of a three-story building, the total number of screws is permitted to be
reduced by 2 screws, but the total number of screws shall be no less than 4.
c. For roof slopes of 6: 1 2 or greater, the required number of screws may be reduced by half, but the total number of screws shall be no less than four.
d. Screws can be replaced by an uplift connector which has a capacity of the number of screws multiplied by 164 pounds (e.g., 12-No. 8 screws can be replaced
by an uplift connector whose capacity exceeds 12 x 164 pounds = 1,968 pounds).
R603.8 Head and sill track. Head track spans above door
and window openings and sill track spans beneath window
openings shall comply with Table R603.8. For openings less
than 4 feet (1219 mm) in height that have both a head track
and a sill track, multiplying the spans by 1.75 shall be permit-
ted in Table R603.8. For openings less than or equal to 6 feet
(1829 mm) in height that have both a head track and a sill
track, multiplying the spans in Table R603.8 by 1.50 shall be
permitted.
R603.9 Structural sheathing. Structural sheathing shall be
installed in accordance with Figure R603.9 and this section
on all sheathable exterior wall surfaces, including areas above
and below openings.
R603.9.1 Sheathing materials. Structural sheathing pan-
els shall consist of minimum 7 / 16 -inch-thick (11 mm) ori-
ented strand board or 15 / 32 -inch-thick (12 mm) plywood.
R603.9.2 Determination of minimum length of full
height sheathing. The minimum length of full height
sheathing on each braced wall line shall be determined by
multiplying the length of the braced wall line by the per-
centage obtained from Table R603.9.2(l) and by the plan
aspect-ratio adjustment factors obtained from Table
STRUCTURAL SHEATHING
PANEL
FIELD FASTENER
EDGE FASTENER
FIGURE R603.9
STRUCTURAL SHEATHING FASTENING PATTERN
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
261
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R603.9.2(2). The minimum length of full height sheathing
shall not be less than 20 percent of the braced wall line
length.
To be considered full height sheathing, structural
sheathing shall extend from the bottom to the top of the
wall without interruption by openings. Only sheathed, full
height wall sections, uninterrupted by openings, which are
a minimum of 48 inches (1219 mm) wide, shall be counted
toward meeting the minimum percentages in Table
R603.9.2(l). In addition, structural sheathing shall comply
with all of the following requirements:
1. Be installed with the long dimension parallel to the
stud framing (i.e., vertical orientation) and shall
cover the full vertical height of wall from the bottom
of the bottom track to the top of the top track of each
story. Installing the long dimension perpendicular to
the stud framing or using shorter segments shall be
permitted provided that the horizontal joint is
blocked as described in Item 2.
Be blocked when the long dimension is installed
perpendicular to the stud framing (i.e., horizontal
orientation). Blocking shall be a minimum of 33 mil
(0.84 mm) thickness. Each horizontal structural
sheathing panel shall be fastened with No. 8 screws
spaced at 6 inches ( 1 52 mm) on center to the block-
ing at the joint.
TABLE R603.8
HEAD AND SILL TRACK SPAN F y = 33 KSi
BASIC WIND SPEED
(mph)
ALLOWABLE HEAD AND SILL TRACK SPAN""
(feet-inches)
EXPOSURE
TRACK DESIGNATION
B
c
350T1 25-33
350T1 25-43
350T1 25-54
550T1 25-33
550T1 25-43
550T1 25-54
85
—
5'-0"
5'-7"
6'-2"
5'-10"
6'-8"
7'-0"
90
—
4'-10"
5'-5"
6'-0"
5'-8"
6'-3"
6'- 10"
100
85
4'-6"
5'-l"
5'-8"
5'-4"
5'- 11"
6'-5"
110
90
4'-2"
4'-9"
5'-4"
5'-l"
5'-7"
6'1"
120
100
3'-ll"
4'-6"
5'-0"
4'- 10"
5'-4"
5'-10"
130
110
3'-8"
4'-2"
4'-9"
4'-l"
5'-l"
5'-7"
140
120
3'-7"
4'-l"
4'-7"
3'-6"
4'-l 1"
5'-5"
150
130
3'-5"
3'- 10"
4'-4"
2'- 11"
4'-7"
5'-2"
—
140
3'-]"
3'-6"
4'-l"
2'-3"
4'-0"
4'- 10"
—
150
2'-9"
3'-4"
3'- 10"
2'-0"
3'-7"
4'-7"
For SI: I inch = 25.4 ram, I foot = 304.8 mm, I mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. Deflection limit: L/240.
b. Head and sill track spans are based on components and cladding wind speeds and 48-inch tributary span.
c. For openings less than 4 feet in height that have both a head track and sill track, the above spans are permitted to be multiplied by 1 .75. For openings less than
or equal to 6 feet in height that have both a head track and a sill track, the above spans are permitted to be multiplied by a factor of 1 .5.
DOUBLE STUDS BACK TO BACK WITH
OUTSIDE STUD CAPPED WITH TRACK
NO. 8 SHEATHING ATTACHMENT-
SCREWS AS REQUIRED BY
SECTION R603.9.3
NO. 8 SCREWS ATTACHING -
TRACK TO STUD AT 8 IN.
O.C. EACH FLANGE
PLYWOOD, OSB OR GWB
SHEATHING PER SHEARWALL
REQUIREMENTS
DOUBLE ROW OF NO. 8 SCREWS
AT 12 IN. O.C.
HOLDOWN AS REQUIRED BY
SECTION R603.9.4
OUTSIDE FACE [>
INSIDE FACE
- WALLBOARD BACKING STUDS
O INSIDE FACE
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R603.9.2
CORNER STUD HOLD-DOWN DETAIL
262
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
3. Be applied to each end (corners) of each of the exte-
rior walls with a minimum 48-inch-wide (1219 mm)
panel.
R603.9.2.1 Full height sheathing. The minimum per-
centage of full-height structural sheathing shall be mul-
tiplied by 1.10 for 9-foot-high (2743 mm) walls and
multiplied by 1.20 for 10-foot-high (3048 mm) walls.
R603.9.2.2 Full height sheathing in hip roof homes.
For hip roofed homes, the minimum percentages of full
height sheathing in Table R603.9.2(l), based upon
wind, shall be permitted to be multiplied by a factor of
0.95 for roof slopes not exceeding 7:12 and a factor of
0.9 for roof slopes greater than 7:12.
R603.9.2.3 Full height sheathing in lowest story. In
the lowest story of a dwelling, multiplying the percent-
age of full height sheathing required in Table
R603.9.2(l) by 0.6, shall be permitted provided hold
down anchors are provided in accordance with Section
R603.9.4.2,
R603.9.3 Structural sheathing fastening. All edges and
interior areas of structural sheathing panels shall be fas-
tened to framing members and tracks in accordance with
Figure R603.9 and Table R603.3.2(l). Screws for attach-
ment of structural sheathing panels shall be bugle-head,
flat-head, or similar head style with a minimum head
diameter of 0.29 inch (8 mm).
For continuously-sheathed braced wall lines using
wood structural panels installed with No. 8 screws spaced
4-inches (102 mm) on center at all panel edges and 12
inches (304.8 mm) on center on intermediate framing
members, the following shall apply:
1. Multiplying the percentages of full height sheathing
in Table R603.9.2(l ) by 0.72 shall be permitted.
2. For bottom track attached to foundations or framing
below, the bottom track anchor or screw connection
spacing in Table R505.3.1(l) and Table R603.3.1
shall be multiplied by two-thrids.
R603.9.4 Uplift connection requirements. Uplift con-
nections shall be provided in accordance with this section.
R603.9.4.1 Wind speeds greater than 100 mph.
Where wind speeds are in excess of 100 miles per hour
(45 m/s), Exposure C, walls shall be provided wind
direct uplift connections in accordance with AISI S230,
TABLE R603.9.2(1)
MINIMUM PERCENTAGE OF FULL HEIGHT STRUCTURAL SHEATHING ON EXTERIOR WALLS 3 ' b
WALL SUPPORTING
ROOF SLOPE
BASIC WIND SPEED AND EXPOSURE
(mph)
85
B
90
B
100
B
< 110
B
100 c
<110C
85 C
90 C
Roof and ceiling only (one story or top
floor of two- or three-story building).
3:12
8
9
9
12
16
20
6:12
12
13
15
20
26
35
9:12
21
23
25
30
50
58
12:12
30
33
35
40
66
75
One story, roof and ceiling (first floor
of a two-story building or second floor
of a three-story building).
3:12
24
27
30
35
50
66
6:12
25
28
30
40
58
74
9:12
35
38
40
55
74
91
12:12
40
45
50
65
100
115
Two story, roof and ceiling (first floor
of a three-story building).
3:12
40
45
51
58
84
112
6:12
38
43
45
60
90
113
9:12
49
53
55
80
98
124
12:12
50
57
65
90
134
155
For SI: 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. Linear interpolation is permitted.
b. For hip-roofed homes the minimum percentage of full height sheathing, based upon wind, is permitted to be multiplied by a factor of 0.95 for roof slopes not
exceeding 7: 1 2 and a factor of 0.9 for roof slopes greater than 7:12.
TABLE R603.9.2(2)
FULL HEIGHT SHEATHING LENGTH ADJUSTMENT FACTORS
PLAN ASPECT RATIO
LENGTH ADJUSTMENT FACTORS
Short wall
Long wall
1:1
1.0
1.0
1 .5: 1
1.5
0.67
2:1
2.0
0.50
3:1
3.0
0.33
4:1
4.0
0.25
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
263
WALL CONSTRUCTION
Section E13.3, and AISI S230, Section F7.2, as
required for 110 miles per hour (49 m/s), Exposure C.
R603.9.4.2 Hold-down anchor. Where the percentage
of full height sheathing is adjusted in accordance with
Section R603.9.2.3, a hold-down anchor, with a
strength of 4,300 pounds (19 kN), shall be provided at
each end of each full-height sheathed wall section used
to meet the minimum percent sheathing requirements
of Section R603.9.2. Hold-down anchors shall be
attached to back- to-back studs; structural sheathing
panels shall have edge fastening to the studs, in accor-
dance with Section R603.9.3 and AISI S230, Table
Ell-1.
A single hold-down anchor, installed in accordance
with Figure R603.9.2, shall be permitted at the corners
of buildings.
R603.9.5 Structural sheathing for stone and masonry
veneer. In Seismic Design Category C, where stone and
masonry veneer is installed in accordance with Section
R703.7, the length of structural sheathing for walls sup-
porting one story, roof and ceiling shall be the greater of
the amount required by Section R603.9.2 or 36 percent,
modified by Section R603.9.2 except Section R603.9.2.2
shall not be permitted.
SECTION R604
WOOD STRUCTURAL PANELS
R604.1 Identification and grade. Wood structural panels
shall conform to DOC PS 1, DOC PS 2 or ANSI/APA PRP
210 or, when manufactured in Canada, CSA 0437 or CSA
0325. All panels shall be identified by a grade mark or certif-
icate of inspection issued by an approved agency.
R604.2 Allowable spans. The maximum allowable spans for
wood structural panel wall sheathing shall not exceed the val-
ues set forth in Table R602.3(3).
R604.3 Installation. Wood structural panel wall sheathing
shall be attached to framing in accordance with Table
R602.3(l) or R602.3(3). Wood structural panels marked
Exposure 1 or Exterior are considered water-repellent sheath-
ing under the code.
SECTION R605
PART1CLEBOARD
R605.1 Identification and grade. Particleboard shall con-
form to ANSI A208.1 and shall be so identified by a grade
mark or certificate of inspection issued by an approved
agency. Particleboard shall comply with the grades specified
in Table R602.3(4).
SECTION R606
GENERAL MASONRY CONSTRUCTION
R606.1 General. Masonry construction shall be designed and
constructed in accordance with the provisions of this section,
| TMS 403 or in accordance with the provisions of TMS 402/
ACT 530/ASCE 5.
R606.1.1 Professional registration not required. When
the empirical design provisions of Chapter 5 of TMS 402/
ACI 530/ASCE 5, the provisions of TMS 403, or the pro-
visions of this section are used to design masonry, project
drawings, typical details and specifications are not
required to bear the seal of the architect or engineer
responsible for design, unless otherwise required by the
state law of the jurisdiction having authority.
R606.2 Thickness of masonry. The nominal thickness of
masonry walls shall conform to the requirements of Sections
R606.2.1 through R606.2.4.
R606.2.1 Minimum thickness. The minimum thickness
of masonry bearing walls more than one story high shall
be 8 inches (203 mm). Solid masonry walls of one-story
dwellings and garages shall not be less than 6 inches (152
mm) in thickness when not greater than 9 feet (2743 mm)
in height, provided that when gable construction is used,
an additional 6 feet (1829 mm) is permitted to the peak of
the gable. Masonry walls shall be laterally supported in
either the horizontal or vertical direction at intervals as
required by Section R606.9.
R606.2.2 Rubble stone masonry wall. The minimum
thickness of rough, random or coursed rubble stone
masonry walls shall be 16 inches (406 mm).
R606.2.3 Change in thickness. Where walls of masonry
of hollow units or masonry-bonded hollow walls are
decreased in thickness, a course of solid masonry shall be
constructed between the wall below and the thinner wall
above, or special units or construction shall be used to
transmit the loads from face shells or wythes above to
those below.
R606.2.4 Parapet walls. Unreinforced solid masonry par-
apet walls shall not be less than 8 inches (203 mm) thick
and their height shall not exceed four times their thickness.
Unreinforced hollow unit masonry parapet walls shall be
not less than 8 inches (203 mm) thick, and their height
shall not exceed three times their thickness. Masonry para-
pet walls in areas subject to wind loads of 30 pounds per
square foot (1 .44 kPa) located in Seismic Design Category
D , D, or D 2 , or on townhouses in Seismic Design Cate-
gory C shall be reinforced in accordance with Section
R606.12.
R606.3 Corbeled masonry. Corbeled masonry shall be in
accordance with Sections R606.3.1 through R606.3.3.
R606.3.1 Units. Solid masonry units or masonry units
filled with mortar or grout shall be used for corbeling.
R606.3.2 Corbel projection. The maximum projection of
one unit shall not exceed one-half the height of the unit or
one-third the thickness at right angles to the wall. The
maximum corbeled projection beyond the face of the wall
shall not exceed:
1 . One-half of the wall thickness for multiwythe walls
bonded by mortar or grout and wall ties or masonry
headers, or
2. One-half the wythe thickness for single wythe walls,
masonry-bonded hollow walls, multiwythe walls
with open collar joints and veneer walls.
264
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R606.3.3 Corbeled masonry supporting floor or roof-
framing members. When corbeled masonry is used to
support floor or roof-framing members, the top course of
the corbel shall be a header course or the top course bed
joint shall have ties to the vertical wall.
R606.4 Support conditions. Bearing and support conditions
shall be in accordance with Sections R606.4.1 and R606.4.2.
R606.4.1 Bearing on support. Each masonry wythe shall
be supported by at least two-thirds of the wythe thickness.
R606.4.2 Support at foundation. Cavity wall or masonry
veneer construction may be supported on an 8-inch (203
mm) foundation wall, provided the 8-inch (203 mm) wall
is corbeled to the width of the wall system above with
masonry constructed of solid masonry units or masonry
units filled with mortar or grout. The total horizontal pro-
jection of the corbel shall not exceed 2 inches (51 mm)
with individual corbels projecting not more than one-third
the thickness of the unit or one-half the height of the unit.
The hollow space behind the corbeled masonry shall be
filled with mortar or grout.
R606.5 Allowable stresses. Allowable compressive stresses
in masonry shall not exceed the values prescribed in Table
R606.5. In determining the stresses in masonry, the effects of
all loads and conditions of loading and the influence of all
forces affecting the design and strength of the several parts
shall be taken into account.
R606.5.1 Combined units. In walls or other structural
members composed of different kinds or grades of units,
materials or mortars, the maximum stress shall not exceed
the allowable stress for the weakest of the combination of
units, materials and mortars of which the member is com-
posed. The net thickness of any facing unit that is used to
resist stress shall not be less than 1.5 inches (38 mm).
R606.6 Piers. The unsupported height of masonry piers shall
not exceed ten times their least dimension. When structural
clay tile or hollow concrete masonry units are used for iso-
lated piers to support beams and girders, the cellular spaces
shall be filled solidly with concrete or Type M or S mortar,
except that unfilled hollow piers may be used if their unsup-
ported height is not more than four times their least dimen-
sion. Where hollow masonry units are solidly filled with
concrete or Type M, S or N mortar, the allowable compres-
sive stress shall be permitted to be increased as provided in
Table R606.5.
R606.6.1 Pier cap. Hollow piers shall be capped with 4
inches (102 mm) of solid masonry or concrete, a masonry
cap block, or shall have cavities of the top course filled
with concrete or grout.
R606.7 Chases. Chases and recesses in masonry walls shall
not be deeper than one-third the wall thickness, and the maxi-
mum length of a horizontal chase or horizontal projection
shall not exceed 4 feet (1219 mm), and shall have at least 8
inches (203 mm) of masonry in back of the chases and
recesses and between adjacent chases or recesses and the
jambs of openings. Chases and recesses in masonry walls
shall be designed and constructed so as not to reduce the
required strength or required fire resistance of the wall and in
no case shall a chase or recess be permitted within the
required area of a pier. Masonry directly above chases or
recesses wider than 12 inches (305 mm) shall be supported on
noncombustible lintels.
TABLE R606.5
ALLOWABLE COMPRESSIVE STRESSES FOR
EMPIRICAL DESIGN OF MASONRY
ALLOWABLE COMPRESSIVE
CONSTRUCTION;
STRESSES' GROSS
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH
CROSS-SECTIONAL AREA"
OF UNIT, GROSS AREA
Type M or S mortar
Type N mortar
Solid masonry of brick and
other solid units of clay or
shale; sand-lime or con-
crete brick:
8,000 + psi
350
300
4,500 psi
225
200
2,500 psi
160
140
1,500 psi
115
100
Grouted c masonry, of clay
or shale; sand-lime or con-
crete:
4,500 + psi
225
200
2,500 psi
160
140
1,500 psi
115
100
Solid masonry of solid con-
crete masonry units:
3,000 + psi
225
200
2,000 psi
160
140
1,200 psi
115
100
Masonry of hollow load-
bearing units:
2,000 + psi
140
120
1,500 psi
115
100
1,000 psi
75
70
700 psi
60
55
Hollow walls (cavity or
masonry bonded 11 ) solid
units:
2,500 + psi
160
140
1,500 psi
115
100
Hollow units
75
70
Stone ashlar masonry:
Granite
720
640
Limestone or marble
450
400
Sandstone or cast stone
360
320
Rubble stone masonry:
Coarse, rough or random
120
100
For SI: I pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
a. Linear interpolation shall be used for determining allowable stresses for
masonry units having compressive strengths that are intermediate between
those given in the table.
b. Gross cross-sectional area shall be calculated on the actual rather than
nominal dimensions.
c. See Section R608.
d. Where floor and roof loads are carried upon one wythe, the gross cross-
sectional area is that of the wythe under load; if both wythes are loaded,
the gross cross-sectional area is that of the wall minus the area of the
cavity between the wythes. Walls bonded with metal ties shall be
considered as cavity walls unless the collar joints are filled with mortar or
grout.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
265
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R606.8 Stack bond. In unreinforced masonry where
masonry units are laid in stack bond, longitudinal reinforce-
ment consisting of not less than two continuous wires each
with a minimum aggregate cross-sectional area of 0.017
square inch (11 mm 2 ) shall be provided in horizontal bed
joints spaced not more than 16 inches (406 mm) on center
vertically.
R606.9 Lateral support. Masonry walls shall be laterally
supported in either the horizontal or the vertical direction.
The maximum spacing between lateral supports shall not
exceed the distances in Table R606.9. Lateral support shall be
provided by cross walls, pilasters, buttresses or structural
frame members when the limiting distance is taken horizon-
tally, or by floors or roofs when the limiting distance is taken
vertically.
TABLE R606.9
SPACING OF LATERAL SUPPORT FOR MASONRY WALLS
CONSTRUCTION
MAXIMUM WALL LENGTH TO THICKNESS
OR WALL HEIGHT TO THICKNESS"'"
Bearing walls:
Solid or solid grouted
All other
20
18
Nonbearing walls:
Exterior
Interior
18
36
For SI: I foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Except for cavity walls and cantilevered walls, the thickness of a wall
shall be its nominal thickness measured perpendicular to the face of the
wall. For cavity walls, the thickness shall be determined as the sum of the
nominal thicknesses of the individual wythes. For cantilever walls, except
for parapets, the ratio of height to nominal thickness shall not exceed 6 for
solid masonry, or 4 for hollow masonry. For parapets, see Section
R606.2.4.
b. An additional unsupported height of 6 feet is permitted for gable end
walls.
R606.9.1 Horizontal lateral support. Lateral support in
the horizontal direction provided by intersecting masonry
walls shall be provided by one of the methods in Section
R606.9.1.1 or Section R606.9. 1.2.
R606.9.1.1 Bonding pattern. Fifty percent of the units
at the intersection shall be laid in an overlapping
masonry bonding pattern, with alternate units having a
bearing of not less than 3 inches (76 mm) on the unit
below.
R606.9.1.2 Metal reinforcement. Interior nonload-
bearing walls shall be anchored at their intersections, at
vertical intervals of not more than 16 inches (406 mm)
with joint reinforcement of at least 9 gage [0.148 inch
(4mm)], or 7 4 -inch (6 mm) galvanized mesh hardware
cloth. Intersecting masonry walls, other than interior
nonloadbearing walls, shall be anchored at vertical
intervals of not more than 8 inches (203 mm) with joint
reinforcement of at least 9 gage and shall extend at least
30 inches (762 mm) in each direction at the intersec-
tion. Other metal ties, joint reinforcement or anchors, if
used, shall be spaced to provide equivalent area of
anchorage to that required by this section.
R606.9.2 Vertical lateral support. Vertical lateral sup-
port of masonry walls in Seismic Design Category A, B or
C shall be provided in accordance with one of the methods
in Section R606.9.2.1 or Section R606.9.2.2.
R606.9.2.1 Roof structures. Masonry walls shall be
anchored to roof structures with metal strap anchors
spaced in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions, Vj-inch (13 mm) bolts spaced not more than 6
feet (1829 mm) on center, or other approved anchors.
Anchors shall be embedded at least 1 6 inches (406 mm)
into the masonry, or be hooked or welded to bond beam
reinforcement placed not less than 6 inches (152 mm)
from the top of the wall.
R606.9.2.2 Floor diaphragms. Masonry walls shall be
anchored to floor diaphragm framing by metal strap
anchors spaced in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions, V 2 -inch-diameter (13 mm) bolts spaced at
intervals not to exceed 6 feet (1829 mm) and installed
as shown in Figure R606.11(l), or by other approved
methods.
R606.10 Lintels. Masonry over openings shall be supported
by steel lintels, reinforced concrete or masonry lintels or
masonry arches, designed to support load imposed.
R606.ll Anchorage. Masonry walls shall be anchored to
floor and roof systems in accordance with the details shown
in Figure R606.11(l), R606.11(2) or R606.11(3). Footings
may be considered as points of lateral support.
R606.12 Seismic requirements. The seismic requirements
of this section shall apply to the design of masonry and the
construction of masonry building elements located in Seismic
Design Category D , D, or D 2 . Townhouses in Seismic
Design Category C shall comply with the requirements of
Section R606.12.2. These requirements shall not apply to
glass unit masonry conforming to Section R610 or masonry
veneer conforming to Section R703.7.
R606.12.1 General. Masonry structures and masonry ele-
ments shall comply with the requirements of Sections
R606.12.2 through R606.12.4 based on the seismic design
category established in Table R301.2(l). Masonry struc-
tures and masonry elements shall comply with the require-
ments of Section R606.12 and Figures R606.11(l),
R606.11(2) and R606.1 1(3) or shall be designed in accor-
dance with TMS 402/ACI 530/ASCE 5 or TMS 403.
R606.12.1.1 Floor and roof diaphragm construction.
Floor and roof diaphragms shall be constructed of
wood structural panels attached to wood framing in
accordance with Table R602.3(l) or to cold-formed
steel floor framing in accordance with Table
R505.3.1(2) or to cold-formed steel roof framing in
accordance with Table R804.3. Additionally, sheathing
panel edges perpendicular to framing members shall be
backed by blocking, and sheathing shall be connected
to the blocking with fasteners at the edge spacing. For
Seismic Design Categories C, D , D, and D 2 , where the
width-to-thickness dimension of the diaphragm
exceeds 2-to-l, edge spacing of fasteners shall be 4
inches (102 mm) on center.
R606.12.2 Seismic Design Category C. Townhouses
located in Seismic Design Category C shall comply with
the requirements of this section.
266
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
SHEATHING NAILED IN
ACCORDANCE WITH
TABLE R602.3(1)
RAFTER
BLOCKING
2 IN. NOMINAL
PLATE
SHEATHING NAILED IN
ACCORDANCE WITH
TABLE R602.3(1)
V 2 IN. BOLT AT 8 FT. O.C.
EMBEDDED 4 IN. MINI.
EMBEDDED 4 IN.
,2-8dPER
SHEATHING
BOLT EMBEDDED
4 IN.
SEE TABLE FOR BOLT
SIZE AND SPACING
LEDGER BOLT
SIZE AND SPACING
APPROVED METAL CONNECTOR
'3 IN. NOMINAL LEDGER
JOIST SPAN
BOLT SIZE AND SPACING
ROOF
FLOOR
10 FT.
V 2 AT2FT 6 IN.
7 / 8 AT3FT 6 IN.
V 2 AT 2 FT. OIN.
7 / 8 AT2FT. 9 IN.
10-15 FT.
V 2 AT1 FT. 9 IN.
7 / 8 AT2FT. 6 IN.
V 2 AT 1 FT. 4 IN.
7 / 8 AT 2 FT. IN.
15-20 FT.
1 / 2 AT1 FT. 3 IN.
7 / B AT2FT. OIN.
V 2 AT 1 FT. IN.
7 / 8 AT 1 FT. 6 IN.
SHEATHING NAILED IN
ACCORDANCE WITH
TABLE R602.3(1)
JOISTS
PERPENDICULAR
TO WALL
SEE TABLE
ABOVE FOR BOLT
AND SIZE
SPACING
3-1 6d PER JOIST
SPACING
3 IN. NOMINAL
END JOIST
'3-16d PER JOIST SPACING
'3 IN. NOMINAL LEDGER
'EMBEDDED 4 IN. MIN.
V 2 IN. BOLT AT 8 FT. O.C
EMBEDDED AT 4 IN. MIN
JOISTS
PARALLEL TO
WALL
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0.479 kPa.
Note: Where bolts are located in hollow masonry, the cells in the courses receiving the bolt shall be grouted solid.
FIGURE R606.11(1)
ANCHORAGE REQUIREMENTS FOR MASONRY WALLS LOCATED IN SEISMIC
DESIGN CATEGORY A, B OR C AND WHERE WIND LOADS ARE LESS THAN 30 PSF
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE"
267
WALL CONSTRUCTION
ROOF CONNECTORS AT
48 IN, MAX. O.C.
#4 BARS AROUND
OPENINGS
DETAIL B
#4 BARS WtTHIN 8 IN. OF ENDS"
OF WALLS AND AT CORNERS
#4 BARS AT 10 FT O.C.
24 IN. OR
40*
#4 BARS (MIN.) AT
DIAPHRAGMS
CONT. THRU C.J.
#4 BARS (MIN.)
WITHIN 8 IN. OF
ALLCJ.'S
CONTROL JOINT
(C.J.)
#4 BARS AT 10 FT O.C. OR W1.7
JOINT REINFORCED AT 16 IN. O.C.
MINIMUM REINFORCEMENT FOR MASONRY WALLS
ANCHOR BOLTS
2 IN. PLATE WITH V, IN. 4 BOLTS
NOT MORE THAN 4 FT O.C.
EMBEDDED 4 IN. MtN.
BOND BEAM STEEL
TWO % IN. BARS
/
i
LINTEL STEEL-
SEE SECTION R6G6, 10
REINFORCEMENT-
SEE SECTIONS
R606.12.2.1.3and
R606.12.2.2.3
NOT HEADERv
COURSE
LAP 40 DIA.
1
.DOWEL
; 3 IN. x 1/4 IN. CLIP
ANGLE 4 FT O.C.
ONE %, IN. BOLT
TWO #4 LATERAL TIES WITHIN
TOP S IN. OF COLUMN THAT
ENCLOSE ANCHOR BOLTS AND
VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT
VERTICAL COLUM.
REINFORCEMENT
REINFORCEMENT SHALL
HAVE MIN. V 4 (N.
CLEARANCE -
12 IN. MAX.
BEFORE
GROUTING
METAL TIES— -"" T7L
SEE SECTION R608.1.2 *==
g
g
w
V
HEADER COURSES- ¥ .-_
NOT PERMITTED ^*f/
m
MIN. 3/4 IN. GROUT-
a
MAX
COLUMN TIES
H
&
tZJ
\L
-AV-
WHERE INTERIOR
STUD PARTITION
MEETS WALL BOLT
END STUD WITH V, IN
if BOLTS 3 FT O.C.
4— LAP 40 DIA,
SECTION 1
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R606.1 1(2)
REQUIREMENTS FOR REINFORCED GROUTED MASONRY CONSTRUCTION IN SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY C
268
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
ROOF CONNECTORS
AT 48 IN. MAX. O.C.
ROOF
#4 BARS AROUND
OPENINGS
#4 BARS WITHIN 8 IN. OF
ENDS OF WALLS AND AT
CORNERS
#4 BARS AT 48 IN. O.C
#4 BARS (MIN.) AT
DIAPHRAGMS
CONT, THRU C.J.
#4 BARS (MIN.)
WITHIN 8 IN. OF
ALL C.J, 'S
CONTROL JOINT
(C.J.)
#4 BARS AT 48 IN. O.C.
MINIMUM REINFORCEMENT FOR MASONRY WALLS
3 IN. x 3 1 / 4 IN. CLIP ANGLE 4 FT. O.C,
ONE 1 / 2 ([>IN. BOLT
HEIGHT
8 FT. MAX.
6 IN.
2
.DOWEL 2 FT. SIN.
/LONG
■BOND BEAM TWO V 2 § IN,
BARS STEEL
Ve IN. BOLTS NOT MORE
THAN 4 FT. O.C. IN CELLS
WITH VERTICAL ROD
WHERE POSSIBLE
EMBEDDED 4 IN. MIN.
, TIE COURSE
REINFORCEMENTS—
■SEE SECTIONS R606.1 2.2.2.3,
R606.12.3.2ANDR606.12.4
ANCHOR BOLTS
TWO #4 LATERAL TIES WITHIN
TOP 5 IN. OF COLUMN WHICH
ENCLOSE ANCHOR BOLTS
AND VERTICAL
REINFORCEMENT
VERTICAL COLUMN A
REINFORCEMENT £
/
/
/
.LINTEL BAR OR
BARS— SEE
SECTION R606.9
MAX.
#3 COLUMN
TIES AT 8 IN.
MAX.
SECTION C
1 M
3 / B IN. <()DOWELv I
% IN. (|> ROD
6 IN. MIN.
////
PP
6 IN.
r
.,0°',
////WW///
\\\ n :.' :•
Njxy/Awv///
14 IN.
\\V
////
\\\ v
\\\ x
/ FOUNDATION
DETAIL "A"
INSPECTION OPENING
NOT REQUIRED IF
INSPECTED AT THE
COURSE
FOUNDATION FOR
WOOD FLOOR
FOUNDATION FOR
CONCRETE FLOOR
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, J foot = 304.8 mm.
Note: A full bed joint must be provided. All cells containing vertical bars are to be filled to the top of wall and provide inspection opening as shown on detail
"A."
Horizontal bars are to be laid as shown on detail "B." Lintel bars are to be laid as shown on Section C.
FIGURE R606.11(3)
REQUIREMENTS FOR REINFORCED MASONRY CONSTRUCTION IN SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY D , D„ OR D 2
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
269
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R606.12.2.1 Minimum length of wall without open-
ings. Table R606. 12.2.1 shall be used to determine the
minimum required solid wall length without openings
at each masonry exterior wall. The provided percentage
of solid wall length shall include only those wall seg-
ments that are 3 feet (914 mm) or longer. The maxi-
mum clear distance between wall segments included in
determining the solid wall length shall not exceed 1 8
feet (5486 mm). Shear wall segments required to meet
the minimum wall length shall be in accordance with
Section R606.12.2.2.3.
R606.12.2.2 Design of elements not part of the lat-
eral force-resisting system.
R606.12.2.2.1 Load-bearing frames or columns.
Elements not part of the lateral force-resisting sys-
tem shall be analyzed to determine their effect on
the response of the system. The frames or columns
shall be adequate for vertical load carrying capacity
and induced moment caused by the design story
drift.
R606.12.2.2.2 Masonry partition walls. Masonry
partition walls, masonry screen walls and other
masonry elements that are not designed to resist ver-
tical or lateral loads, other than those induced by
their own weight, shall be isolated from the structure
so that vertical and lateral forces are not imparted to
these elements. Isolation joints and connectors
between these elements and the structure shall be
designed to accommodate the design story drift.
R606. 12.2.2.3 Reinforcement requirements for
masonry elements. Masonry elements listed in Sec-
tion R606. 12.2.2.2 shall be reinforced in either the
horizontal or vertical direction as shown in Figure
R606.1 1(2) and in accordance with the following:
I. Horizontal reinforcement. Horizontal joint
reinforcement shall consist of at least two lon-
gitudinal W1.7 wires spaced not more than 16
inches (406 mm) for walls greater than 4
inches (102 mm) in width and at least one lon-
gitudinal W1.7 wire spaced not more than 16
inches (406 mm) for walls not exceeding 4
inches (102 mm) in width; or at least one No.
4 bar spaced not more than 48 inches (1219
mm). Where two longitudinal wires of joint
reinforcement are used, the space between
these wires shall be the widest that the mortar
joint will accommodate. Horizontal reinforce-
ment shall be provided within 16 inches (406
mm) of the top and bottom of these masonry
elements.
2. Vertical reinforcement. Vertical reinforcement
shall consist of at least one No. 4 bar spaced
not more than 48 inches (1219 mm). Vertical
reinforcement shall be located within 16
inches (406 mm) of the ends of masonry walls.
R606.12.2.3 Design of elements part of the lateral
force-resisting system.
R606.12.2.3.1 Connections to masonry shear
walls. Connectors shall be provided to transfer
forces between masonry walls and horizontal ele-
ments in accordance with the requirements of Sec-
tion 1.7.4 of TMS 402/ACI 530/ASCE 5. Connec-
tors shall be designed to transfer horizontal design
forces acting either perpendicular or parallel to the
wall, but not less than 200 pounds per linear foot
(2919 N/m) of wall. The maximum spacing between
connectors shall be 4 feet (1219 mm). Such anchor-
age mechanisms shall not induce tension stresses
perpendicular to grain in ledgers or nailers.
R606. 12.2.3.2 Connections to masonry columns.
Connectors shall be provided to transfer forces
between masonry columns and horizontal elements
in accordance with the requirements of Section 1.7.4
of TMS 402/ACI 530/ASCE 5. Where anchor bolts
are used to connect horizontal elements to the tops
of columns, the bolts shall be placed within lateral
ties. Lateral ties shall enclose both the vertical bars
in the column and the anchor bolts. There shall be a
minimum of two No. 4 lateral ties provided in the
top 5 inches (1 27 mm) of the column.
R606.12.2.3.3 Minimum reinforcement require-
ments for masonry shear walls. Vertical reinforce-
ment of at least one No. 4 bar shall be provided at
corners, within 16 inches (406 mm) of each side of
openings, within 8 inches (203 mm) of each side of
movement joints, within 8 inches (203 mm) of the
ends of walls, and at a maximum spacing of 10 feet
(3048 mm).
Horizontal joint reinforcement shall consist of at
least two wires of W1.7 spaced not more than 16
inches (406 mm); or bond beam reinforcement of at
least one No. 4 bar spaced not more than 10 feet
TABLE R606.1 2.2.1
MINIMUM SOLID WALL LENGTH ALONG EXTERIOR WALL LINES
SESIMIC DESIGN
CATEGORY
MINIMUM SOLID WALL LENGTH (percent) 3
One story or
top story of two story
Wall supporting light-framed second
story and roof
Wall supporting masonry second
story and roof
Townhouses in C
20
25
35
D„ or D,
25
NP
NP
D 2
30
NP
NP
NP = Not permitted, except with design in accordance with the International Building Code.
a. For all walls, the minimum required length of solid walls shall be based on the table percent multiplied by the dimension, parallel to the wall direction under
consideration, of a rectangle inscribing the overall building plan.
270
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
(3048 mm) shall be provided. Horizontal reinforce-
ment shall also be provided at the bottom and top of
wall openings and shall extend not less than 24
inches (610 mm) nor less than 40 bar diameters past
the opening; continuously at structurally connected
roof and floor levels; and within 16 inches (406 mm)
of the top of walls.
R606.12.3 Seismic Design Category D or D r Structures
in Seismic Design Category D or D, shall comply with
the requirements of Seismic Design Category C and the
additional requirements of this section.
R606.1 2.3.1 Design requirements. Masonry elements
other than those covered by Section R606. 12.2.2.2 shall
be designed in accordance with the requirements of
Chapter 1 and Sections 2.1 and 2.3 of TMS 402, ACI
530/ASCE 5 and shall meet the minimum reinforce-
ment requirements contained in Sections R606. 12.3.2
and R606.12.3.2.1. Otherwise, masonry shall be
designed in accordance with TMS 403.
Exception: Masonry walls limited to one story in
height and 9 feet (2743 mm) between lateral sup-
ports need not be designed provided they comply
with the minimum reinforcement requirements of
Sections R606.12.3.2 and R606.12.3.2.1.
R606. 12.3.2 Minimum reinforcement requirements
for masonry walls. Masonry walls other than those
covered by Section R606. 12.2.2.3 shall be reinforced in
both the vertical and horizontal direction. The sum of
the cross-sectional area of horizontal and vertical rein-
forcement shall be at least 0.002 times the gross cross-
sectional area of the wall, and the minimum cross-sec-
tional area in each direction shall be not less than
0.0007 times the gross cross-sectional area of the wall.
Reinforcement shall be uniformly distributed. Table
R606.12.3.2 shows the minimum reinforcing bar sizes
required for varying thicknesses of masonry walls. The
maximum spacing of reinforcement shall be 48 inches
(1219 mm) provided that the walls are solid grouted
and constructed of hollow open-end units, hollow units
laid with full head joints or two wythes of solid units.
The maximum spacing of reinforcement shall be 24
inches (610 mm) for all other masonry.
R606. 12.3.2.1 Shear wall reinforcement require-
ments. The maximum spacing of vertical and hori-
zontal reinforcement shall be the smaller of one-
third the length of the shear wall, one-third the
height of the shear wall, or 48 inches (1219 mm).
The minimum cross-sectional area of vertical rein-
forcement shall be one-third of the required shear
reinforcement. Shear reinforcement shall be
anchored around vertical reinforcing bars with a
standard hook.
R606.12.3.3 Minimum reinforcement for masonry
columns. Lateral ties in masonry columns shall be
spaced not more than 8 inches (203 mm) on center and
shall be at least 3 / 8 -inch (9.5 mm) diameter. Lateral ties
shall be embedded in grout.
R606.12.3.4 Material restrictions. Type N mortar or
masonry cement shall not be used as part of the lateral-
force-resisting system.
R606. 12.3.5 Lateral tie anchorage. Standard hooks
for lateral tie anchorage shall be either a 135-degree
(2.4 rad) standard hook or a 180-degree (3.2 rad) stan-
dard hook.
R606.12.4 Seismic Design Category D,. All structures in
Seismic Design Category D 2 shall comply with the
requirements of Seismic Design Category D, and to the
additional requirements of this section.
R606.12.4.1 Design of elements not part of the lat-
eral force-resisting system. Stack bond masonry that
is not part of the lateral force-resisting system shall
have a horizontal cross -sectional area of reinforcement
of at least 0.0015 times the gross cross-sectional area of
masonry. Table R606. 12.4.1 shows minimum reinforc-
ing bar sizes for masonry walls. The maximum spacing
of horizontal reinforcement shall be 24 inches (610
mm). These elements shall be solidly grouted and shall
be constructed of hollow open-end units or two wythes
of solid units.
TABLE R606.12.4.1
MINIMUM REINFORCING FOR STACKED BONDED
MASONRY WALLS IN SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY D,
NOMINAL WALL THICKNESS
(inches)
MINIMUM BAR SIZE
SPACED AT 24 INCHES
6
8
10
12
#4
#5
#5
#6
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
TABLE R606.1 2.3.2
MINIMUM DISTRIBUTED WALL REINFORCEMENT FOR BUILDING ASSIGNED TO SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY D or D,
NOMINAL WALL THICKNESS
(inches)
MINIMUM SUM OF THE VERTICAL
AND HORIZONTAL
REINFORCEMENT AREAS 3
(square inches per foot)
MINIMUM REINFORCEMENT AS
DISTRIBUTED IN BOTH
HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL
DIRECTIONS"
(square inches per foot)
MINUMUM BAR SIZE FOR
REINFORCEMENT SPACED AT 48 INCHES
6
8
10
12
0.135
0.183
0.231
0.279
0.047
0.064
0.081
0.098
#4
#5
#6
#6
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square inch per foot = 2064 mnr/m.
a. Based on the minimum reinforcing ratio of 0.002 times the gross cross-sectional area of the wall.
b. Based on the minimum reinforcing ratio each direction of 0.0007 times the gross cross-sectional area of the wall.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 55
271
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R606. 12.4.2 Design of elements part of the lateral
force-resisting system. Stack bond masonry that is part
of the lateral force-resisting system shall have a hori-
zontal cross-sectional area of reinforcement of at least
0.0025 times the gross cross-sectional area of masonry.
Table R606. 12.4.2 shows minimum reinforcing bar
sizes for masonry walls. The maximum spacing of hor-
izontal reinforcement shall be 16 inches (406 mm).
These elements shall be solidly grouted and shall be
constructed of hollow open-end units or two wythes of
solid units.
TABLE R606.1 2.4.2
MINIMUM REINFORCING FOR STACKED BONDED
MASONRY WALLS IN SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY D,
TABLE R606.15.1
MINIMUM CORROSION PROTECTION
NOMINAL WALL THICKNESS
MINIMUM BAR SIZE
(inches)
SPACED AT 16 INCHES
6
#4
8
#5
10
#5
12
#6
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 ram.
R606.13 Protection for reinforcement. Bars shall be com-
pletely embedded in mortar or grout. Joint reinforcement
embedded in horizontal mortar joints shall not have less than
V g -inch (15.9 mm) mortar coverage from the exposed face.
All other reinforcement shall have a minimum coverage of
one bar diameter over all bars, but not less than 3 / 4 inch (19
mm), except where exposed to weather or soil, in which case
the minimum coverage shall be 2 inches (51 mm).
R606.14 Beam supports. Beams, girders or other concen-
trated loads supported by a wall or column shall have a bear-
ing of at least 3 inches (76 mm) in length measured parallel to
the beam upon solid masonry not less than 4 inches (102 mm)
in thickness, or upon a metal bearing plate of adequate design
and dimensions to distribute the load safely, or upon a contin-
uous reinforced masonry member projecting not less than 4
inches (102 mm) from the face of the wall.
R606.14.1 Joist bearing. Joists shall have a bearing of not
less than 17, inches (38 mm), except as provided in Sec-
tion R606.14, and shall be supported in accordance with
Figure R606.1 1(1).
R606.15 Metal accessories. Joint reinforcement, anchors,
ties and wire fabric shall conform to the following: ASTM A
82 for wire anchors and ties; ASTM A 36 for plate, headed
and bent-bar anchors; ASTM A 510 for corrugated sheet
metal anchors and ties; ASTM A 951 for joint reinforcement;
ASTM B 227 for copper-clad steel wire ties; or ASTM A 167
for stainless steel hardware.
R606.15.1 Corrosion protection. Minimum corrosion
protection of joint reinforcement, anchor ties and wire fab-
ric for use in masonry wall construction shall conform to
Table R606.15.1.
MASONRY METAL
ACCESSORY
STANDARD
Joint reinforcement, interior walls
ASTM A 641, Class 1
Wire ties or anchors in exterior walls
completely embedded in mortar or grout
ASTM A 641, Class 3
Wire ties or anchors in exterior walls not
completely embedded in mortar or grout
ASTM A 153, Class B-2
Joint reinforcement in exterior walls or
interior walls exposed to moist environ-
ment
ASTM A 153, Class B-2
Sheet metal ties or anchors exposed to
weather
ASTM A 153, Class B-2
Sheet metal ties or anchors completely
embedded in mortar or grout
ASTM A 653, Coating
Designation G60
Stainless steel hardware for any exposure
ASTM A 167, Type 304
SECTION R607
UNIT MASONRY
R607. 1 Mortar. Mortar for use in masonry construction shall
comply with ASTM C 270. The type of mortar shall be in
accordance with Sections R607.1.1, R607.1.2 and R607.1.3
and shall meet the proportion specifications of Table R607.1
or the property specifications of ASTM C 270.
R607.1.1 Foundation walls. Masonry foundation walls
constructed as set forth in Tables R404. 1.1(1) through
R404.1.1(4) and mortar shall be Type M or S.
R607.1.2 Masonry in Seismic Design Categories A, B
and C. Mortar for masonry serving as the lateral-force-
resisting system in Seismic Design Categories A, B and C
shall be Type M, S or N mortar.
R607.1.3 Masonry in Seismic Design Categories D„, D,
and D 2 . Mortar for masonry serving as the lateral-force-
resisting system in Seismic Design Categories D , D, and
D 2 shall be Type M or S portland cement-lime or mortar
cement mortar.
R607.2 Placing mortar and masonry units.
R607.2.1 Bed and head joints. Unless otherwise required
or indicated on the project drawings, head and bed joints
shall be 3 / g inch (10 mm) thick, except that the thickness of
the bed joint of the starting course placed over foundations
shall not be less than 7 4 inch (7 mm) and not more than V 4
inch (19 mm).
R607.2.1.1 Mortar joint thickness tolerance. Mortar
joint thickness for load-bearing masonry shall be within
the following tolerances from the specified dimensions:
1. Bed joint: + 7 8 inch (3 mm).
272
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
2. Head joint: - 7 4 inch (7 mm), + V 8 inch (10 mm).
3. Collar joints: - 7 4 inch (7 mm), + 3 / 8 inch (10
mm).
R607.2.2 Masonry unit placement. The mortar shall be
sufficiently plastic and units shall be placed with sufficient
pressure to extrude mortal - from the joint and produce a
tight joint. Deep furrowing of bed joints that produces
voids shall not be permitted. Any units disturbed to the
extent that initial bond is broken after initial placement
shall be removed and relaid in fresh mortar. Surfaces to be
in contact with mortar shall be clean and free of deleteri-
ous materials.
R607.2.2.1 Solid masonry. Solid masonry units shall
be laid with full head and bed joints and all interior ver-
tical joints that are designed to receive mortar shall be
filled.
R607.2.2.2 Hollow masonry. For hollow masonry
units, head and bed joints shall be filled solidly with
mortar for a distance in from the face of the unit not
less than the thickness of the face shell.
R607.3 Installation of wall ties. The installation of wall ties
shall be as follows:
1. The ends of wall ties shall be embedded in mortar
joints. Wall ties shall have a minimum of V 8 -inch (15.9
mm) mortar coverage from the exposed face.
2. Wall ties shall not be bent after being embedded in
grout or mortar.
3. For solid masonry units, solid grouted hollow units, or
hollow units in anchored masonry veneer, wall ties
shall be embedded in mortar bed at least 1 V, inches (38
mm).
4. For hollow masonry units in other than anchored
masonry veneer, wall ties shall engage outer face shells
by at least 7 2 inch (13 mm).
SECTION R608
MULT1PLE-WYTHE MASONRY
R608.1 General. The facing and backing of multiple-wythe
masonry walls shall be bonded in accordance with Section
R608.1.1, R608.1.2 or R608.1.3. In cavity walls, neither the
facing nor the backing shall be less than 3 inches (76 mm)
nominal in thickness and the cavity shall not be more than 4
inches (102 mm) nominal in width. The backing shall be at
least as thick as the facing.
Exception: Cavities shall be permitted to exceed the 4-
inch (102 mm) nominal dimension provided tie size and
tie spacing have been established by calculation.
R608.1.1 Bonding with masonry headers. Bonding with
solid or hollow masonry headers shall comply with Sec-
tions R608. 1.1.1 and R608. 1.1. 2.
R 608. 1.1.1 Solid units. Where the facing and backing
(adjacent wythes) of solid masonry construction are
bonded by means of masonry headers, no less than 4
percent of the wall surface of each face shall be com-
TABLE R607.1
MORTAR PROPORTIONS 8
PROPORTIONS BY VOLUME (cementitious materials)
MORTAR
TYPE
Portland cement or
blended cement
Mortar cement
Masonry cement
Hydrated lime c or
lime putty
Aggregate ratio
(measured in damp,
loose conditions)
M
S
N
M
S
N
Cement-lime
M
S
N
O
1
1
1
1
—
—
—
—
—
—
over 7 4 to 7 2
over 7 2 to l'/ 4
over l7 4 to27.
Not less than 27 4 and
not more than 3 times
the sum of separate
volumes of lime, if
used, and cement
Mortar cement
M
M
S
S
N
O
1
%
1
1
1
1
1
1
—
—
Masonry cement
M
M
S
S
N
O
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
—
For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.0283 m 3 , 1 pound = 0.454 kg.
a. For the purpose of these specifications, the weight of 1 cubic foot of the respective materials shall be considered to be as follows:
Portland Cement 94 pounds Masonry Cement Weight printed on bag
Mortar Cemenl Weight printed on bag Hydrated Lime 40 pounds
Lime Putty (Quicklime) 80 pounds Sand, damp and loose 80 pounds of dry sand
b. Two air-entraining materials shall not be combined in mortar.
c. Hydrated lime conforming to the requirements of ASTM C 207.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
273
WALL CONSTRUCTION
posed of headers extending not less than 3 inches (76
mm) into the backing. The distance between adjacent
full-length headers shall not exceed 24 inches (610
mm) either vertically or horizontally. In walls in which
a single header does not extend through the wall, head-
ers from the opposite sides shall overlap at least 3
inches (76 mm), or headers from opposite sides shall be
covered with another header course overlapping the
header below at least 3 inches (76 mm).
R608. 1.1.2 Hollow units. Where two or more hollow
units are used to make up the thickness of a wall, the
stretcher courses shall be bonded at vertical intervals
not exceeding 34 inches (864 mm) by lapping at least 3
inches (76 mm) over the unit below, or by lapping at
vertical intervals not exceeding 17 inches (432 mm)
with units that are at least 50 percent thicker than the
units below.
R608.1.2 Bonding with wall ties or joint reinforcement.
Bonding with wall ties or joint reinforcement shall comply
with Sections R608. 1.2.1 through R608.1.2.3.
R608.1.2.1 Bonding with wall ties. Bonding with wall
ties, except as required by Section R610, where the fac-
ing and backing (adjacent wythes) of masonry walls are
bonded with 3 / ]6 -inch-diameter (5 mm) wall ties embed-
ded in the horizontal mortar joints, there shall be at
least one metal tie for each 4.5 square feet (0.418 m 2 ) of
wall area. Ties in alternate courses shall be staggered.
The maximum vertical distance between ties shall not
exceed 24 inches (610 mm), and the maximum hori-
zontal distance shall not exceed 36 inches (914 mm).
Rods or ties bent to rectangular shape shall be used
with hollow masonry units laid with the cells vertical.
In other walls, the ends of ties shall be bent to 90-
degree (0.79 rad) angles to provide hooks no less than 2
inches (51 mm) long. Additional bonding ties shall be
provided at all openings, spaced not more than 3 feet
(914 mm) apart around the perimeter and within 12
inches (305 mm) of the opening.
R608. 1.2.2 Bonding with adjustable wall ties. Where
the facing and backing (adjacent wythes) of masonry
are bonded with adjustable wall ties, there shall be at
least one tie for each 2.67 square feet (0.248 m 2 ) of wall
area. Neither the vertical nor the horizontal spacing of
the adjustable wall ties shall exceed 24 inches (610
mm). The maximum vertical offset of bed joints from
one wythe to the other shall be 1.25 inches (32 mm).
The maximum clearance between connecting parts of
the ties shall be V 16 inch (2 mm). When pintle legs are
used, ties shall have at least two 3 / 16 -inch-diameter (5
mm) legs.
R608.1.2.3 Bonding with prefabricated joint rein-
forcement. Where the facing and backing (adjacent
wythes) of masonry are bonded with prefabricated joint
reinforcement, there shall be at least one cross wire
serving as a tie for each 2.67 square feet (0.248 m 2 ) of
wall area. The vertical spacing of the joint reinforce-
ment shall not exceed 1 6 inches (406 mm). Cross wires
on prefabricated joint reinforcement shall not be
smaller than No. 9 gage. The longitudinal wires shall be
embedded in the mortar.
R608.1.3 Bonding with natural or cast stone. Bonding
with natural and cast stone shall conform to Sections
R608.1.3.1andR608.1.3.2.
R608.1.3.1 Ashlar masonry. In ashlar masonry,
bonder units, uniformly distributed, shall be provided
to the extent of not less than 10 percent of the wall area.
Such bonder units shall extend not less than 4 inches
(102 mm) into the backing wall.
R608.1.3.2 Rubble stone masonry. Rubble stone
masonry 24 inches (610 mm) or less in thickness shall
have bonder units with a maximum spacing of 3 feet
(914 mm) vertically and 3 feet (914 mm) horizontally,
and if the masonry is of greater thickness than 24
inches (610 mm), shall have one bonder unit for each 6
square feet (0.557 m 2 ) of wall surface on both sides.
R608.2 Masonry bonding pattern. Masonry laid in running
and stack bond shall conform to Sections R608.2.1 and
R608.2.2.
R608.2. 1 Masonry laid in running bond. In each wythe
of masonry laid in running bond, head joints in successive
courses shall be offset by not less than one-fourth the unit
length, or the masonry walls shall be reinforced longitudi-
nally as required in Section R608.2.2.
R608.2.2 Masonry laid in stack bond. Where unit
masonry is laid with less head joint offset than in Section
R608.2.1, the minimum area of horizontal reinforcement
placed in mortar bed joints or in bond beams spaced not
more than 48 inches (1219 mm) apart, shall be 0.0007
times the vertical cross-sectional area of the wall.
SECTION R609
GROUTED MASONRY
R609.1 General. Grouted multiple-wythe masonry is a form
of construction in which the space between the wythes is sol-
idly filled with grout. It is not necessary for the cores of
masonry units to be filled with grout. Grouted hollow unit
masonry is a form of construction in which certain cells of
hollow units are continuously filled with grout.
R609.1.1 Grout. Grout shall consist of cementitious mate-
rial and aggregate in accordance with ASTM C 476 and
the proportion specifications of Table R609.1.1. Type M
or Type S mortar to which sufficient water has been added
to produce pouring consistency can be used as grout.
R609.1.2 Grouting requirements. Maximum pour
heights and the minimum dimensions of spaces provided
for grout placement shall conform to Table R609.1.2. If
the work is stopped for one hour or longer, the horizontal
construction joints shall be formed by stopping all tiers at
the same elevation and with the grout 1 inch (25 mm)
below the top.
R609.1.3 Grout space (cleaning). Provision shall be
made for cleaning grout space. Mortar projections that
project more than 7 2 inch (13 mm) into grout space and |
274
2012 INTERNATSONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
any other foreign matter shall be removed from grout
space prior to inspection and grouting.
R609.1.4 Grout placement. Grout shall be a plastic mix
suitable for pumping without segregation of the constitu-
ents and shall be mixed thoroughly. Grout shall be placed
by pumping or by an approved alternate method and shall
be placed before any initial set occurs and in no case more
than 1 7 2 hours after water has been added. Grouting shall
be done in a continuous pour, in lifts not exceeding 5 feet
(1524 mm). It shall be consolidated by puddling or
mechanical vibrating during placing and reconsolidated
after excess moisture has been absorbed but before plastic-
ity is lost.
R609.1.4.1 Grout pumped through aluminum pipes.
Grout shall not be pumped through aluminum pipes.
R609.1.5 Cleanouts. Where required by the building offi-
cial, cleanouts shall be provided as specified in this sec-
tion. The cleanouts shall be sealed before grouting and
after inspection.
R609.1.5.1 Grouted multiple-wythe masonry. Clea-
nouts shall be provided at the bottom course of the
exterior wythe at each pour of grout where such pour
exceeds 5 feet (1524 mm) in height.
R609.1.5.2 Grouted hollow unit masonry. Cleanouts
shall be provided at the bottom course of each cell to be
grouted at each pour of grout, where such pour exceeds
4 feet (1219 mm) in height.
R609.2 Grouted multiple-wythe masonry. Grouted multi-
ple-wythe masonry shall conform to all the requirements
WALL CONSTRUCTION
specified in Section R609.1 and the requirements of this sec-
tion.
R609.2.I Bonding of backup wythe. Where all interior
vertical spaces are filled with grout in multiple-wythe con-
struction, masonry headers shall not be permitted. Metal
wall ties shall be used in accordance with Section
R608.1.2 to prevent spreading of the wythes and to main-
tain the vertical alignment of the wall. Wall ties shall be
installed in accordance with Section R608.1.2 when the
backup wythe in multiple-wythe construction is fully
grouted.
R609.2.2 Grout spaces. Fine grout shall be used when
interior vertical space to receive grout does not exceed 2
inches (51 mm) in thickness. Interior vertical spaces
exceeding 2 inches (51 mm) in thickness shall use coarse
or fine grout.
R609.2.3 Grout barriers. Vertical grout barriers or dams
shall be built of solid masonry across the grout space the
entire height of the wall to control the flow of the grout
horizontally. Grout barriers shall not be more than 25 feet
(7620 mm) apart. The grouting of any section of a wall
between control barriers shall be completed in one day
with no interruptions greater than one hour.
R609.3 Reinforced grouted multiple-wythe masonry.
Reinforced grouted multiple-wythe masonry shall conform to
all the requirements specified in Sections R609.1 and R609.2
and the requirements of this section.
R609.3.1 Construction. The thickness of grout or mortar
between masonry units and reinforcement shall not be less
TABLE R609.1.1
GROUT PROPORTIONS BY VOLUME FOR MASONRY CONSTRUCTION
TYPE
PORTLAND CEMENT
OR BLENDED CEMENT
SLAG CEMENT
HYDRATED LIME
OR LIME PUTTY
AGGREGATE MEASURED IN A DAMP, LOOSE CONDITION
Fine
Coarse
Fine
1
to 1/10
2'/ 4 to 3 times the sum of the volume
of the cementitious materials
—
Coarse
1
to 1/10
2 ] / 4 to 3 times the sum of the volume
of the cementitious materials
1 to 2 times the sum of the vol-
umes of the cementitious materials
TABLER609.1.2
GROUT SPACE DIMENSIONS AND POUR HEIGHTS
GROUT TYPE
GROUT POUR MAXIMUM HEIGHT
(feet)
MINIMUM WIDTH OF
GROUT SPACES""
(inches)
MINIMUM GROUT" c SPACE DIMENSIONS FOR
GROUTING CELLS OF HOLLOW UNITS
(inches X inches)
Fine
I
0.75
1.5x2
5
2
2x3
12
2.5
2.5x3
24
3
3x3
Coarse
1
1.5
1.5x3
5
2
2.5x3
12
2.5
3x3
24
3
3x4
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. For grouting between masonry wythes.
b. Grout space dimension is the clear dimension between any masonry protrusion and shall be increased by the horizontal projection of the diameters of the
horizontal bars within the cross section of the grout space.
e. Area of vertical reinforcement shall not exceed 6 percent of the area of the grout space.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE' 8
275
WALL CONSTRUCTION
than V 4 inch (7 mm), except that V 4 -inch (7 mm) bars may
be laid in horizontal mortar joints at least V 2 inch (13 mm)
thick, and steel wire reinforcement may be laid in horizon-
tal mortar joints at least twice the thickness of the wire
diameter.
R609.4 Reinforced hollow unit masonry. Reinforced hol-
low unit masonry shall conform to all the requirements of
Section R609.1 and the requirements of this section.
R609.4.1 Construction. Requirements for construction
shall be as follows:
1. Reinforced hollow-unit masonry shall be built to
preserve the unobstructed vertical continuity of the
cells to be filled. Walls and cross webs forming cells
to be filled shall be full-bedded in mortar to prevent
leakage of grout. Head and end joints shall be sol-
idly filled with mortar for a distance in from the face
of the wall or unit not less than the thickness of the
longitudinal face shells. Bond shall be provided by
lapping units in successive vertical courses.
2. Cells to be filled shall have vertical alignment suffi-
cient to maintain a clear, unobstructed continuous
vertical cell of dimensions prescribed in Table
R609.1.2.
3. Vertical reinforcement shall be held in position at
top and bottom and at intervals not exceeding 200
diameters of the reinforcement.
4. Cells containing reinforcement shall be filled solidly
with grout. Grout shall be poured in lifts of 8-foot
(2438 mm) maximum height. When a total grout
pour exceeds 8 feet (2438 mm) in height, the grout
shall be placed in lifts not exceeding 5 feet (1524
mm) and special inspection during grouting shall be
required.
5. Horizontal steel shall be fully embedded by grout in
an uninterrupted pour.
SECTION R610
GLASS UNIT MASONRY
R610.1 General. Panels of glass unit masonry located in
load-bearing and nonload-bearing exterior and interior walls
shall be constructed in accordance with this section.
R610.2 Materials. Hollow glass units shall be partially evac-
uated and have a minimum average glass face thickness of 3 / 16
inch (5 mm). The surface of units in contact with mortar shall
be treated with a polyvinyl butyral coating or latex-based
paint. The use of reclaimed units is prohibited.
R610.3 Units. Hollow or solid glass block units shall be stan-
dard or thin units.
R61 0.3.1 Standard units. The specified thickness of stan-
dard units shall be at least 3 7 / 8 inches (98 mm).
R6 10.3.2 Thin units. The specified thickness of thin units
shall be at least 3'/ g inches (79 mm) for hollow units and at
least 3 inches (76 mm) for solid units.
R610.4 Isolated panels. Isolated panels of glass unit
masonry shall conform to the requirements of this section.
R610.4.1 Exterior standard-unit panels. The maximum
area of each individual standard-unit panel shall be 144
square feet (13.4 m 2 ) when the design wind pressure is 20
psf (958 Pa). The maximum area of such panels subjected
to design wind pressures other than 20 psf (958 Pa) shall
be in accordance with Figure R610.4.1. The maximum
panel dimension between structural supports shall be 25
feet (7620 mm) in width or 20 feet (6096 mm) in height.
R61 0.4.2 Exterior thin-unit panels. The maximum area
of each individual thin-unit panel shall be 85 square feet
(7.9 m 2 ). The maximum dimension between structural
supports shall be 15 feet (4572 mm) in width or 10 feet
(3048 mm) in height. Thin units shall not be used in appli-
cations where the design wind pressure as stated in Table
R301.2(l) exceeds 20 psf (958 Pa).
R610.4.3 Interior panels. The maximum area of each
individual standard-unit panel shall be 250 square feet
(23.2 m 2 ). The maximum area of each thin-unit panel shall
be 150 square feet (13.9 m 2 ). The maximum dimension
between structural supports shall be 25 feet (7620 mm) in
width or 20 feet (6096 mm) in height.
R610.4.4 Curved panels. The width of curved panels
shall conform to the requirements of Sections R610.4.1,
R610.4.2 and R610.4.3, except additional structural sup-
ports shall be provided at locations where a curved section
joins a straight section, and at inflection points in multi-
curved walls.
R610.5 Panel support. Glass unit masonry panels shall con-
form to the support requirements of this section.
R610.5.1 Deflection. The maximum total deflection of
structural members that support glass unit masonry shall
not exceed V 600 .
R610.5.2 Lateral support. Glass unit masonry panels
shall be laterally supported along the top and sides of the
panel. Lateral supports for glass unit masonry panels shall
be designed to resist a minimum of 200 pounds per lineal
feet (2918 N/m) of panel, or the actual applied loads,
whichever is greater. Except for single unit panels, lateral
support shall be provided by panel anchors along the top
and sides spaced a maximum of 16 inches (406 mm) on
center or by channel-type restraints. Single unit panels
shall be supported by channel-type restraints.
Exceptions:
1. Lateral support is not required at the top of panels
that are one unit wide.
2. Lateral support is not required at the sides of pan-
els that are one unit high.
R61 0.5.2.1 Panel anchor restraints. Panel anchors
shall be spaced a maximum of 16 inches (406 mm) on
center in both jambs and across the head. Panel anchors
shall be embedded a minimum of 12 inches (305 mm)
and shall be provided with two fasteners so as to resist
the loads specified in Section R610.5.2.
R610.5.2.2 Channel-type restraints. Glass unit
masonry panels shall be recessed at least 1 inch (25
mm) within channels and chases. Channel-type
276
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
restraints shall be oversized to accommodate expansion
material in the opening, packing and sealant between
the framing restraints, and the glass unit masonry
perimeter units.
R610.6 Sills. Before bedding of glass units, the sill area shall
be covered with a water base asphaltic emulsion coating. The
coating shall, be a minimum of 7 g inch (3 mm) thick.
R610.7 Expansion joints. Glass unit masonry panels shall be
provided with expansion joints along the top and sides at all
structural supports. Expansion joints shall be a minimum of
3 / g inch (10 mm) in thickness and shall have sufficient thick-
ness to accommodate displacements of the supporting struc-
ture. Expansion joints shall be entirely free of mortar and
other debris and shall be filled with resilient material.
R610.8 Mortar. Glass unit masonry shall be laid with Type S
or N mortar. Mortar shall not be retempered after initial set.
Mortar unused within 1 V 2 hours after initial mixing shall be
discarded.
R610.9 Reinforcement. Glass unit masonry panels shall
have horizontal joint reinforcement spaced a maximum of 16
inches (406 mm) on center located in the mortar bed joint.
Horizontal joint reinforcement shall extend the entire length
of the panel but shall not extend across expansion joints. Lon-
gitudinal wires shall be lapped a minimum of 6 inches (152
mm) at splices. Joint reinforcement shall be placed in the bed
joint immediately below and above openings in the panel.
The reinforcement shall have not less than two parallel longi-
tudinal wires of size W1.7 or greater, and have welded cross
wires of size W1.7 or greater.
R610.10 Placement. Glass units shall be placed so head and
bed joints are filled solidly. Mortar shall not be furrowed.
Head and bed joints of glass unit masonry shall be V 4 inch
(6.4 mm) thick, except that vertical joint thickness of radial
panels shall not be less than V 8 inch (3 mm) or greater than V 8
inch (16 mm). The bed joint thickness tolerance shall be
minus 7 16 inch (1.6 mm) and plus 7 8 inch (3 mm). The head
joint thickness tolerance shall be plus or minus V g inch (3
mm).
SECTION R611
EXTERIOR CONCRETE WALL CONSTRUCTION
R611.1 General. Exterior concrete walls shall be designed
and constructed in accordance with the provisions of this sec-
tion or in accordance with the provisions of PC A 100 or ACI
318. When PCA 100, ACI 318 or the provisions of this sec-
tion are used to design concrete walls, project drawings, typi-
cal details and specifications are not required to bear the seal
of the architect or engineer responsible for design, unless oth-
erwise required by the state law of the jurisdiction having
authority.
R61 1.1.1 Interior construction. These provisions are
based on the assumption that interior walls and partitions,
both load-bearing and nonload-bearing, floors and roof/
100 150 200
MAXIMUM AREA OF PANEL (SQUARE FEET)
3CS
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 m 2 , 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
FIGURE R610.4.1
GLASS UNIT MASONRY DESIGN WIND LOAD RESISTANCE
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
277
WALL CONSTRUCTION
ceiling assemblies are constructed of light-framed con-
struction complying with the limitations of this code and
the additional limitations of Section R611.2. Design and
construction of light-framed assemblies shall be in accor-
dance with the applicable provisions of this code. Where
second-story exterior walls are of light-framed construc-
tion, they shall be designed and constructed as required by
this code.
Aspects of concrete construction not specifically
addressed by this code, including interior concrete walls,
shall comply with ACI 318.
R611.1.2 Other concrete walls. Exterior concrete walls
constructed in accordance with this code shall comply
with the shapes and minimum concrete cross-sectional
dimensions of Table R611.3. Other types of forming sys-
tems resulting in concrete walls not in compliance with
this section shall be designed in accordance with ACI 318.
R611.2 Applicability limits. The provisions of this sec-
tion shall apply to the construction of exterior concrete
walls for buildings not greater than 60 feet (18 288 mm) in
plan dimensions, floors with clear spans not greater than
32 feet (9754 mm) and roofs with clear spans not greater
than 40 feet (12 192 mm). Buildings shall not exceed 35
feet (10 668 mm) in mean roof height or two stories in
height above-grade. Floor/ceiling dead loads shall not
exceed 10 pounds per square foot (479 Pa), roof/ceiling
dead loads shall not exceed 15 pounds per square foot (718
Pa) and attic live loads shall not exceed 20 pounds per
square foot (958 Pa). Roof overhangs shall not exceed 2
feet (610 mm) of horizontal projection beyond the exterior
wall and the dead load of the overhangs shall not exceed 8
pounds per square foot (383 Pa).
Walls constructed in accordance with the provisions of
this section shall be limited to buildings subjected to a maxi-
mum design wind speed of 130 miles per hour (58 m/s) Expo-
sure B, 110 miles per hour (49 m/s) Exposure C and 100
miles per hour (45 m/s) Exposure D. Walls constructed in
accordance with the provisions of this section shall be limited
to detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses
assigned to Seismic Design Category A or B, and detached
one- and two-family dwellings assigned to Seismic Design
Category C.
Buildings that are not within the scope of this section shall
be designed in accordance with PC A 100 or ACI 318.
R611.3 Concrete wall systems. Concrete walls constructed
in accordance with these provisions shall comply with the
shapes and minimum concrete cross-sectional dimensions of
Table R61 1.3.
R611.3.1 Flat wall systems. Flat concrete wall systems
shall comply with Table R61 1.3 and Figure R611.3(l) and
have a minimum nominal thickness of 4 inches (102 mm).
R611.3.2 Waffle-grid wall systems. Waffle-grid wall
systems shall comply with Table R611.3 and Figure
R61I.3(2). and shall have a minimum nominal thickness
of 6 inches (152 mm) for the horizontal and vertical con-
crete members (cores). The core and web dimensions shall
comply with Table R61 1. 3. The maximum weight of waf-
fle-grid walls shall comply with Table R61 1 .3.
TABLE R61 1.3
DIMENSIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR WALLS"' b
WALL TYPE
AND NOMINAL
THICKNESS
MAXIMUM
WALL WEIGHT
(psf)
MINIMUM
WIDTH, W, OF
VERTICAL CORES
(inches)
MINIMUM
THICKNESS, T, OF
VERTICAL CORES
(inches)
MAXIMUM
SPACING OF
VERTICAL CORES
(inches)
MAXIMUM
SPACING OF
HORIZONTAL
CORES
(inches)
MINIMUM WEB
THICKNESS
(inches)
4" Flat"
50
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
6" Flat"
75
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
8" Flat"
100
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
10" Flat"
125
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
6" Waffle-grid
56
8 C
5.5 e
12
16
2
8" Waffle-grid
76
8 f
8 f
12
16
2
6" Screen-grid
53
6.25 s
6.25 E
12
12
N/A
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm; 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 pound per cubic foot = 2402.77 kg/nr\ 1 square inch = 645.16 mm 2 , 1 inch 4 = 42 cm 4 .
a. Width "W," thickness "T," spacing and web thickness, refer to Figures R61 1.3(2) and R61 1 .3(3).
b. N/A indicates not applicable.
c. Wall weight is based on a unit weight of concrete of 1 50 pcf. For flat walls the weight is based on the nominal thickness. The tabulated values do not include
any allowance for interior and exterior finishes.
d. Nominal wall thickness. The actual as-built thickness of a flat wall shall not be more than 7,-inch less or more than 7 4 -inch more than the nominal dimension
indicated.
e. Vertical core is assumed to be elliptical-shaped. Another shape core is permitted provided the minimum thickness is 5 inches, the moment of inertia, /, about
the centerline of the wall (ignoring the web) is not less than 65 inch 4 , and the area, A, is not less than 31 .25 in 2 . The width used to calculate A and / shall not
exceed 8 inches.
f. Vertical core is assumed to be circular. Another shape core is permitted provided the minimum thickness is 7 inches, the moment of inertia, /, about the
centerline of the wall (ignoring the web) is not less than 200 in 4 , and the area, A, is not less than 49 square inch. The width used to calculate A and / shall not
exceed 8 inches.
g. Vertical core is assumed to be circular. Another shape core is permitted provided the minimum thickness is 5.5 inches, the moment of inertia, /, about the
centerline of the wall is not less than 76 inch 4 , and the area, A, is not less than 30.25 square inch. The width used to calculate A and / shall not exceed 6.25
inches.
278
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE*
WALL CONSTRUCTION
CONCRETE WALL
THICKNESS
FORM
STAY-IN-PLACE
OR REMOVABLE
CONCRETE
VERTICAL WALL
REINFORCEMENT
AS REQUIRED
PLAN VIEW
SEE TABLE R611 .3 FOR MINIMUM DIMENSIONS
FIGURE R611.3(1)
FLAT WALL SYSTEM
R611.3.3 Screen-grid wall systems. Screen-grid wall sys-
tems shall comply with Table R611.3 and Figure
R61 1 .3(3) and shall have a minimum nominal thickness of
6 inches (152 mm) for the horizontal and vertical concrete
members (cores). The core dimensions shall comply with
Table R61 1.3. The maximum weight of screen-grid walls
shall comply with Table R6 1 1 . 3 .
R611.4 Stay-in-place forms. Stay-in-place concrete forms
shall comply with this section.
R611.4.1 Surface burning characteristics. The flame
spread index and smoke-developed index of forming
material, other than foam plastic, left exposed on the inte-
rior shall comply with Section R302.9. The surface burn-
ing characteristics of foam plastic used in insulating
concrete forms shall comply with Section R316.3.
R61 1.4.2 Interior covering. Stay-in-place forms con-
structed of rigid foam plastic shall be protected on the
interior of the building as required by Sections R316.4 and
R702.3.4. Where gypsum board is used to protect the foam
plastic, it shall be installed with a mechanical fastening
system. Use of adhesives is permitted in addition to
mechanical fasteners.
R61 1.4.3 Exterior wall covering. Stay-in-place forms
constructed of rigid foam plastics shall be protected from
sunlight and physical damage by the application of an
approved exterior wall covering complying with this code.
Exterior surfaces of other stay-in-place forming systems
shall be protected in accordance with this code.
2 IN. MINIMUM CONCRETE WEB THICKNESS
FORM-
STAY-IN-PLACE
OR REMOVABLE
HORIZONTAL CONCRETE CORE
(HIDDEN) AT MAXIMUM,
16 IN. ON CENTER
VERTICAL CONCRETE CORE
VERTICAL WALL
REINFORCEMENT
AS REQUIRED
PLAN VIEW
SEE TABLE R611.3 FOR MINIMUM DIMENSIONS
FORM-
STAY-IN-PLACE
OR REMOVABLE
VERTICAL WALL
REINFORCEMENT
AS REQUIRED
HORIZONTAL CONCRETE
CORE (HIDDEN) AT
MAXIMUM, 12 IN.
ON CENTER
VERTICAL
CONCRETE CORE
THICKNESS
MINIMUM
PLAN VIEW
SEE TABLE R611 .3 FOR MINIMUM DIMENSIONS.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R61 1.3(2)
WAFFLE-GRID WALL SYSTEM
For SI: l inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R61 1.3(3)
SCREEN-GRID WALL SYSTEM
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
279
WALL CONSTRUCTION
Requirements for installation of masonry veneer,
stucco and other finishes on the exterior of concrete walls
and other construction details not covered in this section
shall comply with the requirements of this code.
R61 1.4.4 Flat ICF wall systems. Flat ICF wall system
forms shall conform to ASTM E 2634.
R611.5 Materials. Materials used in the construction of con-
crete walls shall comply with this section.
R611.5.1 Concrete and materials for concrete. Materi-
als used in concrete, and the concrete itself, shall conform
to requirements of this section, or ACI 318.
R611.5.1.1 Concrete mixing and delivery. Mixing
and delivery of concrete shall comply with ASTM C 94
or ASTM C 685.
R611.5.1.2 Maximum aggregate size. The nominal
maximum size of coarse aggregate shall not exceed
one-fifth the narrowest distance between sides of
forms, or three-fourths the clear spacing between rein-
forcing bars or between a bar and the side of the form.
Exception: When approved, these limitations shall
not apply where removable forms are used and
workability and methods of consolidation permit
concrete to be placed without honeycombs or voids.
R611.5.1.3 Proportioning and slump of concrete.
Proportions of materials for concrete shall be estab-
lished to provide workability and consistency to permit
concrete to be worked readily into forms and around
reinforcement under conditions of placement to be
employed, without segregation or excessive bleeding.
Slump of concrete placed in removable forms shall not
exceed 6 inches (152 mm).
Exception: When approved, the slump is permitted
to exceed 6 inches (152 mm) for concrete mixtures
that are resistant to segregation, and are in accor-
dance with the form manufacturer's recommenda-
tions.
Slump of concrete placed in stay-in-place forms
shall exceed 6 inches (152 mm). Slump of concrete
shall be determined in accordance with ASTM C 143.
R6 11.5.1.4 Compressive strength. The minimum
specified compressive strength of concrete, / ' c , shall
comply with Section R402.2 and shall be not less than
2,500 pounds per square inch (17.2 MPa) at 28 days.
R61 1.5.1.5 Consolidation of concrete. Concrete shall
be consolidated by suitable means during placement
and shall be worked around embedded items and rein-
forcement and into corners of forms. Where stay-in-
place forms are used, concrete shall be consolidated by
internal vibration.
Exception: When approved, self-consolidating con-
crete mixtures with slumps equal to or greater than 8
inches (203 mm) that are specifically designed for
placement without internal vibration need not be
internally vibrated.
R61 1.5.2 Steel reinforcement and anchor bolts.
R611.5.2.1 Steel reinforcement. Steel reinforcement
shall comply with ASTM A 615, ASTM A 706, or
ASTM A 996. ASTM A 996 bars produced from rail
steel shall be Type R.
R611.5.2.2 Anchor bolts. Anchor bolts for use with
connection details in accordance with Figures
R611.9(l) through R611.9(12) shall be bolts with heads
complying with ASTM A 307 or ASTM F 1554.
ASTM A 307 bolts shall be Grade A (i.e., with heads).
ASTM F 1554 bolts shall be Grade 36 minimum.
Instead of bolts with heads, it is permissible to use rods
with threads on both ends fabricated from steel comply-
ing with ASTM A 36. The threaded end of the rod to be
embedded in the concrete shall be provided with a hex
or square nut.
R611.5.2.3 Sheet steel angles and tension tie straps.
Angles and tension tie straps for use with connection
details in accordance with Figures R6 11.9(1) through
R61 1.9(12) shall be fabricated from sheet steel comply-
ing with ASTM A 653 SS, ASTM A 792 SS, or ASTM
A 875 SS. The steel shall be minimum Grade 33 unless
a higher grade is required by the applicable figure.
R611.5.3 Form materials and form ties. Forms shall be
made of wood, steel, aluminum, plastic, a composite of
cement and foam insulation, a composite of cement and
wood chips, or other approved material suitable for sup-
porting and containing concrete. Forms shall provide suf-
ficient strength to contain concrete during the concrete
placement operation.
Form ties shall be steel, solid plastic, foam plastic, a
composite of cement and wood chips, a composite of
cement and foam plastic, or other suitable material capable
of resisting the forces created by fluid pressure of fresh
concrete.
R611.5.4 Reinforcement installation details.
R61 1.5.4.1 Support and cover. Reinforcement shall
be secured in the proper location in the forms with tie
wire or other bar support system such that displacement
will not occur during the concrete placement operation.
Steel reinforcement in concrete cast against the earth
shall have a minimum cover of 3 inches (76 mm). Min-
imum cover for reinforcement in concrete cast in
removable forms that will be exposed to the earth or
weather shall be l'/ 2 inches (38 mm) for No. 5 bars and
smaller, and 2 inches (50 mm) for No. 6 bars and
larger. For concrete cast in removable forms that will
not be exposed to the earth or weather, and for concrete
cast in stay-in-place forms, minimum cover shall be 3 / 4
inch (19 mm). The minus tolerance for cover shall not
exceed the smaller of one-third the required cover and
3 / 8 inch (10 mm). See Section R611. 5.4.4 for cover
requirements for hooks of bars developed in tension.
R611.5.4.2 Location of reinforcement in walls. For
location of reinforcement in foundation walls and
above-grade walls, see Sections R404.1.2.3.7.2 and
R61 1.6.5, respectively.
280
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R611.5.4.3 Lap splices. Vertical and horizontal wall
reinforcement required by Sections R61 1.6 and R61 1 .7
shall be the longest lengths practical. Where splices are
necessary in reinforcement, the length of lap splices
shall be in accordance with Table R61 1.5.4(1) and Fig-
ure R6 11.5.4 (1). The maximum gap between noncon-
tact parallel bars at a lap splice shall not exceed the
smaller of one-fifth the required lap length and 6 inches
(152 mm). See Figure R61 1.5.4(1).
R61 1.5.4.4 Development of bars in tension. Where
bars are required to be developed in tension by other
provisions of this code, development lengths and cover
for hooks and bar extensions shall comply with Table
R611.5.4(l) and Figure R61 1.5.4 (2). The development
lengths shown in Table R61 1.5.4(1) also apply to bun-
dled bars in lintels installed in accordance with Section
R61 1.8.2.2.
TABLE R61 1.5.4(1)
LAP SPLICE AND TENSION DEVELOPMENT LENGTHS
BAR SIZE
NO.
YIELD STRENGTH OF STEEL, 1- psi (MPa)
40,000 (280)
60,000 (420)
Splice length or tension development length
(inches)
Lap splice length-tension
4
20
30
5
25
38
6
30
45
Tension development length for straight bar
4
15
23
5
19
28
6
23
34
Tension development length for:
a. 90-degree and 1 80-degree standard hooks with not less than 2'/ 2 inches
of side cover perpendicular to plane of hook, and
b. 90-degree standard hooks with not less than 2 inches of cover on the
bar extension beyond the hook.
4
6
9
5
7
11
6
8
13
Tension development length for bar with 90-degree or 1 80-degree standard
hook having less cover than required above.
4
8
12
5
10
15
6
12
18
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
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Concrete
Reinforcement as required
Jt_ Gap shall not exceed the
__ smaller of Vs lap length
| and 6 in.
Reinforcement as required
Lap splice length -
see Table R61 1.5.4(1)
Note: Bars are permitted to be in
contact with each other.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R611.5.4(1)
LAP SPLICES
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
281
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R61 1.5.4.5 Standard hooks. Where reinforcement is
required by this code to terminate with a standard hook,
the hook shall comply with Figure R61 1.5.4(3).
R611.5.4.6 Webs of waffle-grid walls. Reinforcement,
including stirrups, shall not be placed in webs of waf-
fle-grid walls, including lintels. Webs are permitted to
have form ties.
R611.5.4.7 Alternate grade of reinforcement and
spacing. Where tables in Sections R404.1.2 and
R611.6 specify vertical wall reinforcement based on
minimum bar size and maximum spacing, which are
based on Grade 60 (420 MPa) steel reinforcement, dif-
ferent size bars and/or bars made from a different grade
of steel are permitted provided an equivalent area of
steel per linear foot of wall is provided. Use of Table
R611.5.4(2) is permitted to determine the maximum
bar spacing for different bar sizes than specified in the
tables and/or bars made from a different grade of steel.
Bars shall not be spaced less than one-half the wall
thickness, or more than 48 inches (1219 mm) on center.
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j Cover on bar
extension for 90° hook
a4
M
Side cover
for 90° and
180° hook
Section A-A
For SI: 1 degree = 0.0175 rad.
FIGURE R61 1.5.4(2)
DEVELOPMENT LENGTH AND COVER FOR HOOKS AND BAR EXTENSION
90 DEG HOOK ^
6d t BEND
DIAMETER
180 DEG HOOK*>
^
11 a '
i — y
d„ _J /
6d B BEND __^^jfc
DIAMETER I— '
2'/ 2 IN., BUT NOT
LESS THAN 4 d, EXTENSION
HOOKS FOR REINFORCEMENT IN
WALLS AND FOUNDATIONS
90 DEG HOOK %
J {
4 d b BEND _/
DIAMETER
/<
^
12 d„
EXTENSION
135 DEG HOOK %
HOOKS FOR STIRRUPS IN LINTELS
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 degree = 0.0175 rad.
FIGURE R61 1.5.4(3)
STANDARD HOOKS
282
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.5.4(2)
MAXIMUM SPACING FOR ALTERNATIVE BAR SIZE AND/OR ALTERNATIVE GRADE OF STEEL 3 '
b, c
BAR SPACING FROM
APPLICABLE TABLE IN
SECTION R61 1.6
(inches)
BAR SIZE FROM APPLICABLE TABLE IN SECTION R61 1 .6
#4
#5
#6
Alternate bar size and/or alternate grade of steel desired
Grade 60
Grade 40
Grade 60
Grade 40
Grade 60
Grade 40
#5
#6
#4
#5
#6
#4
#6
#4
#5
#6
#4
#5
#4
#5
#6
Maximum spacing for alternate bar size and/or alternate grade of steel (inches)
8
12
18
5
8 12
5
11
3
5
8
4
6
2
4
5
9
14
20
6
9
13
6
13
4
6
9
4
6
3
4
6
10
16
22
7
10
15
6
14
4
7
9
5
7
3
5
7
II
17
24
7
11
16
7
16
5
7
10
5
8
3
5
7
12
19
26
8
12
18
8
17
5
8
11
5
8
4
6
8
13
20
29
9
13
19
8
18
6
9
12
6
9
4
6
9
14
22
31
9
14
21
9
20
6
9
13
6
10
4
7
9
15
23
33
10
16
22
10
21
6
10
14
7
11
5
7
10
16
25
35
11
17
23
10
23
7
11
15
7
11
5
8
11
17
26
37
11
18
25
11
24
7
11
16
8
12
5
8
11
18
28
40
12
19
26
12
26
8
12
17
8
13
5
8
12
19
29
42
13
20
28
12
27
8
13
18
9
13
6
9
13
20
31
44
13
21
29
13
28
9
13
19
9
14
6
9
13
21
33
46
14
22
31
14
30
9
14
20
10
15
6
10
14
22
34
48
15
23
32
14
31
9
15
21
10
16
7
10
15
23
36
48
15
24
34
15
33
10
15
22
10
16
7
11
15
24
37
48
16
25
35
15
34
10
16
23
11
17
7
11
16
25
39
48
17
26
37
16
35
11
17
24
11
18
8
12
17
26
40
48
17
27
38
17
37
11
17
25
12
18
8
12
17
27
42
48
18
28
40
17
38
12
18
26
12
19
8
13
18
28
43
48
19
29
41
18
40
12
19
26
13
20
8
13
19
29
45
48
19
30
43
19
41
12
19
27
13
20
9
14
19
30
47
48
20
31
44
19
43
13
20
28
14
21
9
14
20
31
48
48
21
32
45
20
44
13
21
29
14
22
9
15
21
32
48
48
21
33
47
21
45
14
21
30
15
23
10
15
21
33
48
48
22
34
48
21
47
14
22
31
15
23
10
16
22
34
48
48
23
35
48
22
48
15
23
32
15
24
10
16
23
35
48
48
23
36
48
23
48
15
23
33
16
25
11
16
23
36
48
48
24
37
48
23
48
15
24
34
16
25
11
17
24
37
48
48
25
38
48
24
48
16
25
35
17
26
11
17
25
38
48
48
25
39
48
25
48
16
25
36
17
27
12
18
25
39
48
48
26
40
48
25
48
17
26
37
18
27
12
18
26
40
48
48
27
41
48
26
48
17
27
38
18
28
12
19
27
41
48
48
27
42
48
26
48
18
27
39
19
29
12
19
27
42
48
48
28
43
48
27
48
18
28
40
19
30
13
20
28
43
48
48
29
44
48
28
48
18
29
41
20
30
13
20
29
44
48
48
29
45
48
28
48
19
29
42
20
31
13
21
29
45
48
48
30
47
48
29
48
19
30
43
20
32
14
21
30
46
48
48
31
48
48
30
48
20
31
44
21
32
14
22
31
47
48
48
31
48
48
30
48
20
31
44
21
33
14
22
31
48
48
48
32
48
48
31
48
21
32
45
22
34
15
23
32
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. This table is for use with tables in Section R61 1.6 that specify the minimum bar size and maximum spacing of vertical wall reinforcement for foundation
walls and above-grade walls. Reinforcement specified in tables in Section R61 1.6 is based on Grade 60 (420 MPa) steel reinforcement.
b. Bar spacing shall not exceed 48 inches on center and shall not be less than one4ialf the nominal wall thickness.
c. For Grade 50 (350 MPa) steel bars (ASTM A 996, Type R), use spacing for Grade 40 (280 MPa) bars or interpolate between Grade 40 (280 MPa) and Grade
60 (420 MPa).
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
283
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R611.5.5 Construction joints in walls. Construction
joints shall be made and located to not impair the strength
of the wall. Construction joints in plain concrete walls,
including walls required to have not less than No. 4 bars at
48 inches (1219 mm) on center by Section R611.6, shall
be located at points of lateral support, and a minimum of
one No. 4 bar shall extend across the construction joint at a
spacing not to exceed 24 inches (610 mm) on center. Con-
struction joint reinforcement shall have a minimum of 12
inches (305 mm) embedment on both sides of the joint.
Construction joints in reinforced concrete walls shall be
located in the middle third of the span between lateral sup-
ports, or located and constructed as required for joints in
plain concrete walls.
Exception: Vertical wall reinforcement required by
this code is permitted to be used in lieu of construction
joint reinforcement, provided the spacing does not
exceed 24 inches (610 mm), or the combination of wall
reinforcement and No. 4 bars described above does not
exceed 24 inches (610 mm).
R611.6 Above-grade wall requirements.
R611.6.1 General. The minimum thickness of load-bear-
ing and n onload-bearing above-grade walls and reinforce-
ment shall be as set forth in the appropriate table in this
section based on the type of wall form to be used. Where
the wall or building is not within the limitations of Section
R611.2, design is required by the tables in this section, or
LIGHT-FRAMED ROOF
SEE SECTION
R611.9.3
WALL— STAY-IN-PLACE
OR REMOVABLE FORM
SEE SECTION R611 .9.2
VERTICAL WALL
REINFORCEMENT
AS REQUIRED
LIGHT-FRAMED FLOOR
(OR CONCRETE
SLAB-ON-GROUND)
FIRST-STORY
UNSUPPORTED
WALL HEIGHT
10 FT MAXIMUM
BASEMENT, CRAWLSPACE
OR STEM WALL. fOR SLAB-ON-
GROUND FOOTING, SEE FIGURE R611.6(4)
SECTION CUT THROUGH FLAT WALL OR VERTICAL
CORE OF AWAFFLE— OR SCREEN-GRID WALL
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 ram.
FIGURE R611.6(1)
ABOVE-GRADE CONCRETE WALL CONSTRUCTION ONE
the wall is not within the scope of the tables in this section,
the wall shall be designed in accordance with ACI 318.
Above-grade concrete walls shall be constructed in
accordance with this section and Figure R61 1.6(1),
R61 1.6(2), R61 1.6(3) or R61 1.6(4). Above-grade concrete
walls that are continuous with stem walls and not laterally
supported by the slab-on-ground shall be designed and
constructed in accordance with this section. Concrete
walls shall be supported on continuous foundation walls or
slabs-on-ground that are monolithic with the footing in
accordance with Section R403. The minimum length of
solid wall without openings shall be in accordance with
Section R611.7. Reinforcement around openings, includ-
ing lintels, shall be in accordance with Section R611.8.
Lateral support for above-grade walls in the out-of-plane
direction shall be provided by connections to the floor
framing system, if applicable, and to ceiling and roof
framing systems in accordance with Section R61 1.9. The
wall thickness shall be equal to or greater than the thick-
ness of the wall in the story above.
LIGHT-FRAMED ROOF
LIGHT-FRAMED WALL
SYSTEM
SEE SECTION R611.9.2
WALL— STAY-IN-PLACE
OR REMOVABLE FORM
SEE SECTION R611. 9.2
VERTICAL WALL
REINFORCEMENT
AS REQUIRED
SECOND-STORY
UNSUPPORTED
WALL HEIGHT
10 FT MAXIMUM
LIGHT-FRAMED FLOOR
HORIZONTAL WALL
REINFORCEMENT
AS REQUIRED
LIGHT-FRAMED FLOOR
(OR CONCRETE
SLAB-ON-GROUND)
>r~— -
FIRST-STORY
UNSUPPORTED
WALL HEIGHT
10 FT MAXIMUM
BASEMENT, CRAWLSPACE,
OR STEM WALL. FOR SLAB-ON-
GROUND FOOTING, SEE R611.6(4)
SECTION CUT THROUGH FLAT WALL OR VERTICAL
CORE OF AWAFFLE— OR SCREEN-GRID WALL
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R61 1.6(2)
ABOVE-GRADE CONCRETE WALL
CONSTRUCTION CONCRETE FIRST-STORY
AND LIGHT-FRAMED SECOND-STORY
284
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R611.6.2 Wall reinforcement for wind. Vertical wall
reinforcement for resistance to out-of-plane wind forces
shall be determined from Table R611.6(l), R61 1.6(2),
R61 1.6(3) or R61 1.6(4). Also, see Sections R61 1.7.2.2.2
and R61 1.7.2.2.3. There shall be a vertical bar at all cor-
ners of exterior walls. Unless more horizontal reinforce-
ment is required by Section R611. 7.2.2.1, the minimum
horizontal reinforcement shall be four No. 4 bars [Grade
40 (280 MPa)] placed as follows: top bar within 12 inches
(305 mm) of the top of the wall, bottom bar within 12
inches (305 mm) of the finish floor, and one bar each at
approximately one-third and two-thirds of the wall height.
R611.6.3 Continuity of wall reinforcement between sto-
ries. Vertical reinforcement required by this section shall
be continuous between elements providing lateral support
for the wall. Reinforcement in the wall of the story above
shall be continuous with the reinforcement in the wall of
the story below, or the foundation wall, if applicable. Lap
splices, where required, shall comply with Section
SEE SECTION
R611.9.3
SEE SECTION
R611.9.2
WALL— STAY-IN-PLACE
OR REMOVABLE FORM
SEE SECTION RS1 1.9.2
VERTICAL WALL
REINFORCEMENT
AS REQUIRED
SECOND-STORY
UNSUPPORTED
WALL HEIGHT
10 FT MAXIMUM
LIGHT-FRAMED ROOF
LIGHT-FRAMED FLOOR
HORIZONTAL WALL
REINFORCEMENT
AS REQUIRED
LIGHT-FRAMED FLOOR
(OR CONCRETE
SLAB-ON-GROUND)
FIRST-STORY
UNSUPPORTED
WALL HEIGHT
10 FT MAXIMUM
BASEMENT CRAWLSPACE,
OR STEM WALL. fOR SLAB-ON-
GROUND FOOTING SEE
FIGURE R511. 6(4)
SECTION CUT THROUGH FLAT WALL OR VERTICAL
CORE OF A WAFFLE- OR SCREEN-GRID WALL
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R61 1.6(3)
ABOVE-GRADE CONCRETE WALL
CONSTRUCTION TWO-STORY
R61 1.5.4.3 and Figure R611.5.4(l). Where the above-
grade wall is supported by a monolithic slab-on-ground
and footing, dowel bars with a size and spacing to match
the vertical above-grade concrete wall reinforcement shall
be embedded in the monolithic slab-on-ground and footing
the distance required to develop the dowel bar in tension
in accordance with Section R61 1 .5.4.4 and Figure
R6ll.5.4(2) and lap-spliced with the above grade wall
reinforcement in accordance with Section R61 1.5.4.3 and
Figure R6 11.5.4(1).
Exception: Where reinforcement in the wall above can-
not be made continuous with the reinforcement in the
wall below, the bottom of the reinforcement in the wall
above shall be terminated in accordance with one of the
following:
1. Extend below the top of the floor the distance
required to develop the bar in tension in accor-
dance with Section R61 1.5.4.4 and Figure
R6 11.5.4(2).
2. Lap-spliced in accordance with Section
R61 1 .5.4.3 and Figure R61 1.5.4(1) with a dowel
bar that extends into the wall below the distance
required to develop the bar in tension in accor-
dance with Section R61 1.5.4.4 and Figure
R61 1.5.4(2).
Where a construction joint in the wall is located below
the level of the floor and less than the distance required to
develop the bar in tension, the distance required to develop
the bar in tension shall be measured from the top of the
concrete below the joint. See Section R61 1 .5.5.
WALL— STAY-IN-PLACE
OR REMOVABLE FORM
HORIZONTAL WALL
REINFORCEMENT
AS REQUIRED
SEE SECTION RS11.6.3
INSULATION AS REQUIRED
MONOLITHIC CONCRETE
SLAB-ON-GROUND
AMD FOOTING
SEE CUT THROUGH FLAT WALL OR VERTICAL
CORE OF A WAFFLE- OR SCREEN-GRI D WALL
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R61 1.6(4)
ABOVE-GRADE CONCRETE WALL SUPPORTED ON
MONOLITHIC SLAB-ON-GROUND FOOTING
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 18
285
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.6(1)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT FOR FLAT ABOVE-GRADE WALLS 3 ' b ' c ' d ' 9
MAXIMUM WIND SPEED
MAXIMUM UNSUPPORTED
WALL HEIGHT PER STORY
(feet)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT-BAR SIZE AND SPACING (inches)'' 9
(mph)
Nominal h wall thickness (inches)
Exposure Category
4
6
8
10
B
c
D
Top'
Side 1
Top'
Side 1
Top 1
Side 1
Top 1
Side 1
85
—
—
8
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
9
4@48
4@43
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
10
4@47
4@36
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
90
—
—
8
4@48
4@47
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
9
4@48
4@39
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
10
4@42
4@34
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
100
85
—
8
4@48
4@40
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
9
4@42
4@34
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
10
4@34
4@34
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
110
90
85
8
4@44
4@34
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
9
4@34
4@34
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
10
4@34
4@31
4@48
4@37
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
120
100
90
8
4@36
4@34
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
9
4@34
4@32
4@48
4@38
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
10
4@30
4@27
4@48
5@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
130
110
100
8
4@34
4@34
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
9
4@32
4@28
4@48
4@33
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
10
4@26
4@23
4@48
5@43
4@48
4@48
4@48
4@48
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square inch = 1.895 kPa, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m 2 .
a. Table is based on ASCE 7 components and cladding wind pressures for an enclosed building using a mean roof height of 35 feet, interior wall area 4, an
effective wind area of 10 square feet, and topographic factor, K a , and importance factor, /, equal to 1.0.
b. Table is based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi.
c. See Section R61 1.6.5 for location of reinforcement in wall.
d. Deflection criterion is L/240, where L is the unsupported height of the wall in inches.
e. Interpolation is not permitted.
f. Where No. 4 reinforcing bars at a spacing of 48 inches are specified in the table, use of bars with a minimum yield strength of 40,000 psi or 60,000 psi is
permitted.
g. Other than for No. 4 bars spaced at 48 inches on center, table values are based on reinforcing bars with a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi. Vertical
reinforcement with a yield strength of less than 60,000 psi and/or bars of a different size than specified in the table are permitted in accordance with Section
R61 1.5.4.7 and Table R6ll.5.4(2).
h. See Table R61 1 .3 for tolerances on nominal thicknesses.
i. Top means gravity load from roof and/or floor construction bears on top of wall. Side means gravity load from floor construction is transferred to wall from a
wood ledger or cold-formed steel track bolted to side of wall. Where floor framing members span parallel to the wall, use of the top bearing condition is
permitted.
286
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.6(2)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT FOR WAFFLE-GRID
ABOVE-GRADE WALLS 8 " '" 8
MAXIMUM WIND SPEED
(mph)
MAXIMUM UNSUPPORTED
WALL HEIGHT PER STORY
(feet)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT-BAR SIZE AND SPACING (inches) 1 ' 9
Nominal h wall thickness (inches)
Exposure Category
6
8
B
c
D
Top'
Side 1
Top 1
Side 1
85
—
—
8
4@48
4@36, 5@48
4@48
4@48
9
4@48
4@30,5@47
4@48
4@45
10
4@48
4@26, 5@40
4@48
4@39
90
—
—
8
4@48
4@33, 5@48
4@48
4@48
9
4@48
4@28, 5@43
4@48
4@42
10
4@31,5@48
4@24, 5@37
4@48
4@36
100
85
—
8
4@48
4@28,5@44
4@48
4@43
9
4@31,5@48
4@24, 5@37
4@48
4@36
10
4@25,5@39
4@24, 5@37
4@48
4@31,5@48
110
90
85
8
4@33, 5@48
4@25, 5@38
4@48
4@38
9
4@26,5@40
4@24, 5@37
4@48
4@31,5@48
10
4@24, 5@37
4@23,5@35
4@48
4@27, 5@41
120
100
90
8
4@27, 5@42
4@24, 5@37
4@48
4@33,5@48
9
4@24, 5@37
4@23, 5@36
4@48
4@27, 5@43
10
4@23, 5@35
4@19, 5@30
4@48
4@23, 5@36
130
110
100
8
4@24,5@37
4@24, 5@37
4@48
4@29, 5@45
9
4@24, 5@37
4@20, 5@32
4@48
4@24,5@37
10
4@19,5@30
4@17, 5@26
4@23, 5@36
4@20,5@31
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m 2 .
a. Table is based on ASCE 7 components and cladding wind pressures for an enclosed building using a mean roof height of 35 feet, interior wall area 4, an
effective wind area of 10 square feet, and topographic factor, K z „ and importance factor, /, equal to 1.0.
b. Table is based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi.
c. See Section R61 1 .6.5 for location of reinforcement in wall.
d. Deflection criterion is L/240, where t is the unsupported height of the wall in inches.
e. Interpolation is not permitted.
f. Where No. 4 reinforcing bars at a spacing of 48 inches are specified in the table, use of bars with a minimum yield strength of 40,000 psi or 60,000 psi is
permitted.
g. Other than for No. 4 bars spaced at 48 inches on center, table values are based on reinforcing bars with a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi. Maximum
spacings shown are the values calculated for the specified bar size. Where the bar used is Grade 60 and the size specified in the table, the actual spacing in the
wall shall not exceed a whole-number multiple of 12 inches (i.e., 12, 24, 36 and 48) that is less than or equal to the tabulated spacing. Vertical reinforcement
with a yield strength of less than 60,000 psi and/or bars of a different size than specified in the table are permitted in accordance with Section R61 1 5 4 7 and
Table R61 1.5.4(2).
h. See Table R61 1 .3 for minimum core dimensions and maximum spacing of horizontal and vertical cores.
i. Top means gravity load from roof and/or floor construction bears on top of wall. Side means gravity load from floor construction is transferred to wall from a
wood ledger or cold-formed steel track bolted to side of wall. Where floor framing members span parallel to the wall, the top bearing condition is permitted to
be used.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
287
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.6(3) „ „
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT FOR 6-INCH SCREEN-GRID ABOVE-GRADE WALLS 3 bcd e
MAXIMUM WIND SPEED
(mph)
MAXIMUM UNSUPPORTED
WALL HEIGHT PER STORY
(feet)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT-BAR SIZE AND SPACING (inches)' ■"
Nominal" wall thickness (inches)
Exposure Category
6
B
c
D
Top'
Side'
85
—
—
8
4@48
4@34, 5@48
9
4@48
4@29, 5@45
10
4@48
4@25,5@39
90
—
—
8
4@48
4@31,5@48
9
4@48
4@27, 5@41
10
4@30, 5@47
4@23, 5@35
100
85
—
8
4@48
4@27,5@42
9
4@30,5@47
4@23,5@35
10
4@24, 5@38
4@22, 5@34
110
90
85
8
4@48
4@24, 5@37
9
4@25, 5@38
4@22, 5@34
10
4@22, 5@34
4@22,5@34
120
100
90
8
4@26,5@41
4@22, 5@34
9
4@22, 5@34
4@22, 5@34
10
4@22, 6@34
4@19, 5@26
130
no
100
8
4@22, 5@35
4@22,5@34
9
4@22,5@34
4@20, 5@30
10
4@19,5@29
4@16,5@25
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, I square toot = 0.0929 m .
a. Table is based on ASCE 7 components and cladding wind pressures for an enclosed building using a mean roof height of 35 feet, interior wall area 4, an
effective wind area of 10 square feet, and topographic factor, K. t , and importance factor, /, equal to 1 .0.
b. Table is based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi.
c. See Section R61 1.6.5 for location of reinforcement in wall.
d. Deflection criterion is L/240, where L is the unsupported height of the wall in inches.
e. Interpolation is not permitted.
f. Where No. 4 reinforcing bars at a spacing of 48 inches are specified in the table, use of bars with a minimum yield strength of 40,000 psi or 60,000 psi is
permitted.
°. Other than for No. 4 bars spaced at 48 inches on center, table values are based on reinforcing bars with a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi. Maximum
spacings shown are the values calculated for the specified bar size. Where the bar used is Grade 60 and the size specified in the table, the actual spacing in the
wall shall not exceed a whole-number multiple of 12 inches (i.e., 1 2, 24, 36 and 48) that is less than or equal to the tabulated spacing. Vertical reinforcement
with a yield strength of less than 60,000 psi and/or bars of a different size than specified in the table are permitted in accordance with Section R61 1 .5.4.7 and
Table R6 11.5.4(2).
h. See Table R61 1 .3 for minimum core dimensions and maximum spacing of horizontal and vertical cores.
i. Top means gravity load from roof and/or floor construction bears on top of wall. Side means gravity load from floor construction is transferred to wall from a
wood ledger or cold-formed steel track bolted to side of wall. Where floor framing members span parallel to the wall, use of the top bearing condition is
permitted.
288
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.6(4)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT FOR FLAT, WAFFLE- AND SCREEN-GRID
ABOVE-GRADE WALLS DESIGNED CONTINUOUS WITH FOUNDATION STEM WALLS ab c d e kJ
MAXIMUM WIND SPEED
HEIGHT OF
STEM WALL h ''
(feet)
MAXIMUM
DESIGN
LATERAL
SOIL LOAD
(psf/ft)
MAXIMUM
UNSUPPORTED
HEIGHT OF ABOVE-
GRADE WALL
(feet)
MINIMUM VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT-BAR SIZE AND SPACING (inches)'' 9
(mph)
Wall type and nominal thickness 1 (inches)
Exposure Category
Flat
Waffle
Screen
B
C
D
4
6
8
10
6
8
6
85
—
—
3
30
8
4@33
4@39
4@48
4@48
4@24
4@28
4@22
10
4@26
5@48
4@41
4@48
4@l9
4@22
4@18
60
10
4@21
5@40
5@48
4@44
4@16
4@19
4@15
6
30
10
DR
5@22
6@35
6@43
DR
4@11
DR
60
10
DR
DR
6@26
6@28
DR
DR
DR
90
—
—
3
30
8
4@30
4@36
4@48
4@48
4@22
4@26
4@21
10
4@24
5@44
4@38
4@48
4@l7
4@21
4@17
60
10
4@20
5037
4@48
4@41
4@15
4@18
4@14
6
30
10
DR
5@21
6@35
6@41
DR
4@I0
DR
60
10
DR
DR
6@26
6@28
DR
DR
DR
100
85
—
3
30
8
4@26
5@48
4@42
4@48
4@l9
4@23
4@18
10
4@20
5@37
4@33
4@41
4@15
4@18
4@14
6
60
10
4@17
5@34
5@44
4@36
4@13
4@17
4012
30
10
DR
5@20
6@35
6@38
DR
4@9
DR
60
10
DR
DR
6@24
6@28
DR
DR
DR
110
90
85
3
30
s
4@22
5@42
4@37
4@46
4@16
4@20
4@16
10
4@17
5@34
5@44
4@35
4@12
4@17
4@12
60
10
4@15
5@34
5@39
5@48
4@11
4@17
4@11
6
30
10
DR
5@18
6@35
6@35
DR
4@9
DR
60
10
DR
DR
6@23
6@28
DR
DR
DR
120
100
90
3
30
8
4@19
5@37
5@48
4@40
4@14
4@17
4@14
10
4@14
5@34
5@38
5@48
4@ll
4@17
4@10
60
10
4@13
5@33
6@48
5@43
4@10
4@16
4@9
6
30
10
DR
5@16
6@33
6@32
DR
4@8
DR
60
10
DR
DR
6@22
6@28
DR
DR
DR
130
110
100
3
30
8
4@17
5@34
5@44
4@36
4@12
4@17
4@10
10
DR
5@32
6@47
5@42
4@9
4@15
DR
60
10
DR
5@29
6@43
5@39
DR
4@14
DR
6
30
10
DR
5@15
6@30
6@29
DR
4@7
DR
60
10
DR
DR
6@2I
6@27
DR
DR
DR
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m 2 .
a. Table is based on ASCE 7 components and cladding wind pressures for an enclosed building using a mean roof height of 35 feet, interior wall area 4, an
effective wind area of 10 square feet, and topographic factor, K ;t , and importance factor, /, equal to 1 .0.
b. Table is based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi.
c. See Section R6 1 1 .6.5 for location of reinforcement in wall.
d. Deflection criterion is L/240, where L is the height of the wall in inches from the exterior finish ground level to the top of the above-grade wall.
e. Interpolation is not permitted. For intermediate values of basic wind speed, heights of stem wall and above-grade wall, and design lateral soil load, use next
higher value.
f. Where No. 4 reinforcing bars at a spacing of 48 inches are specified in the table, use of bars with a minimum yield strength of 40,000 psi or 60,000 psi is
permitted.
g. Other than for No. 4 bars spaced at 48 inches on center, table values are based on reinforcing bars with a minimum yield strength of 60,000 psi. Maximum
spacings shown are the values calculated for the specified bar size. In waffle and screen-grid walls where the bar used is Grade 60 and the size specified in the
table, the actual spacing in the wall shall not exceed a whole-number multiple of 12 inches (i.e., 12, 24, 36 and 48) that is less than or equal to the tabulated
spacing. Vertical reinforcement with a yield strength of less than 60,000 psi and/or bars of a different size than specified in the table are permitted in
accordance with Section R61 1 .5.4.7 and Table R61 1.5.4(2).
h. Height of stem wall is the distance from the exterior finish ground level to the top of the slab-on-ground.
i. Where the distance from the exterior finish ground level to the top of the slab-on-ground is equal to or greater than 4 feet, the stem wall shall be laterally
supported at the top and bottom before backfilling. Where the wall is designed and constructed to be continuous with the above-grade wall, temporary
supports bracing the top of the stem wall shall remain in place until the above-grade wall is laterally supported at the top by floor or roof construction,
j. See Table R6 1 1 .3 for tolerances on nominal thicknesses, and minimum core dimensions and maximum spacing of horizontal and vertical cores for waffle- and
screen-grid walls.
k. Tabulated values are applicable to construction where gravity loads bear on top of wall, and conditions where gravity loads from floor construction are
transferred to wall from a wood ledger or cold-formed steel track bolted to side of wall. See Tables R61 1.6(1). R6I 1.6(2) and R61 1.6(3).
I. DR indicates design required.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
289
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R611.6.4 Termination of reinforcement. Where indi-
cated in Items 1 through 3. vertical wall reinforcement in
the top-most story with concrete walls shall be terminated
with a 90-degree (1.57 rad) standard hook complying with
Section R61 1 .5.4.5 and Figure R61 1.5.4(3).
1 . Vertical bars adjacent to door and window openings
required by Section R611.8.1.2.
2. Vertical bars at the ends of required solid wall seg-
ments. See Section R61 1.7.2.2.2.
3. Vertical bars (other than end bars, see Item 2) used
as shear reinforcement in required solid wall seg-
ments where the reduction factor for design strength,
R v used is based on the wall having horizontal and
vertical shear reinforcement. See Section
R61 1.7.2.2.3.
The bar extension of the hook shall be oriented parallel
to the horizontal wall reinforcement and be within 4 inches
(102 mm) of the top of the wall.
Horizontal reinforcement shall be continuous around
the building corners by bending one of the bars and lap-
splicing it with the bar in the other wall in accordance with
Section R61 1.5.4.3 and Figure R61 1.5.4(1).
Exception: In lieu of bending horizontal reinforcement
at corners, separate bent reinforcing bars shall be per-
mitted provided that the bent bar is lap-spliced with the
horizontal reinforcement in both walls in accordance
with Section R61 1.5.4.3 and Figure R611.5.4(l).
In required solid wall segments where the reduction
factor for design strength, /? 3 , is based on the wall having
horizontal and vertical shear reinforcement in accordance
with Section R61 1.7.2.2.1, horizontal wall reinforcement
shall be terminated with a standard hook complying with
Section R61 1.5.4.5 and Figure R61 1.5.4(3) or in a lap-
splice, except at corners where the reinforcement shall be
continuous as required above.
R61 1.6.5 Location of reinforcement in wall. Except for
vertical reinforcement at the ends of required solid wall
segments, which shall be located as required by Section
R6 11.7.2.2.2, the location of the vertical reinforcement
shall not vary from the center of the wall by more than the
greater of 10 percent of the wall thickness and 3 / 8 -inch (10
mm). Horizontal and vertical reinforcement shall be
located to provide not less than the minimum cover
required by Section R61 1.5.4.1.
R611.7 Solid walls for resistance to lateral forces.
R61 1.7.1 Length of solid wall. Each exterior wall line in
each story shall have a total length of solid wall required
by Section R611.7.1.1. A solid wall is a section of flat,
waffle-grid or screen-grid wall, extending the full story
height without openings or penetrations, except those per-
mitted by Section R61 1.7.2. Solid wall segments that con-
tribute to the total length of solid wall shall comply with
Section R61 1.7.2.
R611.7.1.1 Length of solid wall for wind. All build-
ings shall have solid walls in each exterior endwall line
(the side of a building that is parallel to the span of the
roof or floor framing) and sidewall line (the side of a
building that is perpendicular to the span of the roof or
floor framing) to resist lateral in-plane wind forces. The
site-appropriate basic wind speed and exposure cate-
gory shall be used in Tables R61 1.7(1 A) through (1C)
to determine the unreduced total length, UR, of solid
wall required in each exterior endwall line and sidewall
line. For buildings with a mean roof height of less than
35 feet (10 668 mm), the unreduced values determined
from Tables R611.7(1A) though (1C) is permitted by
multiplying by the applicable factor, i?„ from Table
R61 1.7(2); however, reduced values shall not be less
than the minimum values in Tables R61 1.7(1 A)
through (1C). Where the floor-to-ceiling height of a
story is less than 10 feet (3048 mm), the unreduced val-
ues determined from Tables R611.7(1A) through (C),
including minimum values, is permitted to be reduced
by multiplying by the applicable factor, ft 7 , from Table
R61 1.7(3). To account for different design strengths
than assumed in determining the values in Tables
R61 1.7(1 A) through (1C), the unreduced lengths deter-
mined from Tables R611.7(1A) through (1C), includ-
ing minimum values, are permitted to be reduced by
multiplying by the applicable factor, R 3 , from Table
R61 1.7(4). The reductions permitted by Tables
R61 1 .7(2), R61 1.7(3) and R61 1.7(4) are cumulative.
The total length of solid wall segments, TL, in a wall
line that comply with the minimum length requirements
of Section R61 1.7.2.1 [see Figure R61 1.7(1)] shall be
equal to or greater than the product of the unreduced
length of solid wall from Tables R611.7(1A) through
(1C), UR and the applicable reduction factors, if any,
from Tables R61 1.7(2), R61 1.7(3) and R61 1.7(4) as
indicated by Equation R6-1.
TL > fij • R 2 ■ J? 3 • UR (Equation R6-1)
where:
TL = Total length of solid wall segments in a wall line
that comply with Section R61 1.7.2.1 [see Figure
R611.7(l)];
R } =1.0 or reduction factor for mean roof height from
Table R61 1.7(2);
R 2 =1.0 or reduction factor for floor-to-ceiling wall
height from Table R61 1 .7(3);
R^ = 1.0 or reduction factor for design strength from
Table R61 1.7(4), and
UR = Unreduced length of solid wall from Tables
R611.7(1A) through (1C).
The total length of solid wall in a wall line, TL, shall
not be less than that provided by two solid wall seg-
ments complying with the minimum length require-
ments of Section R61 1.7.2.1.
290
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
To facilitate determining the required wall thick-
ness, wall type, number and grade of vertical bars at the
each end of each solid wall segment, and whether shear
reinforcement is required, use of Equation R6-2 is per-
mitted.
R <
TL
R } R 2 - UR
(Equation R6-2)
After determining the maximum permitted value of
the reduction factor for design strength, jR 3 , in accor-
dance with Equation R6-2, select a wall type from
Table R61 1.7(4) with R 3 less than or equal to the value
calculated.
TABLE R61 1.7(1 A)
UNREDUCED LENGTH, UR, OF SOLID WALL REQUIRED IN EACH EXTERIOR ENDWALL
FOR WIND PERPENDICULAR TO RIDGE ONE STORY OR TOP STORY OF TWO STORY 3 cda,s
SIDEWALL
LENGTH
(feet)
ENDWALL
LENGTH
(feet)
ROOF
SLOPE
UNREDUCED LENGTH, UR, OF SOLID WALL REQUIRED IN ENDWALLS FOR WIND PERPENDICULAR TO RIDGE
(feet)
Basic Wind Speed (mph) Exposure
85B
90B
100B
110B
120B
130B
Minimum"
85C
90C
100C
110C
85 D
90D
100D
15
15
< 1:12
(l.'M.I
1.01
1.25
1.51
1.80
2.11
0.98
5:12
! 25
110
1.73
2.09
2.49
2.92
1.43
7:12
1.75
1.96
2.43
2.93
3.49
4.10
1.64
12:12
2.80
3.13
3.87 | 4.68
5.57
6.54
2.21
30
< 1:12
0.00
1.01
1.25
1.51
1.80
2.11
1.09
5:12
1 25
I 40
1.73
2.09
2.49
2.92
2.01
7:12
2.43
2.73
3.37
4.08
4.85
5.69
2.42
12:12
4.52
5.07
6.27
7.57
9.01
10.58
3.57
45
< 1:12
II.W l.OI
1.25 1.51
1.80 2.11
1.21
5:12
v'V t. 25 J 1.40
1.73
2.09
'",, 2.49
2.92
2.59
7:12
3 12 3.4'i
4.32
5.22
6.21
7.29
3.21
12:12
6.25 ' 7.00
8.66
10.47
12.45
14.61
4.93
60
< 1:12
■■ two i.oi
■'X 1.25
1.51
1.80
2.11
1.33
5:12
1.25 ] 1.40
1.73 j 2.09
,y 2.49
2 92
3.16
7:12
3. Nil -121,
5.26
6.36
7.57
8.89
3.99
12:12
7.97 ! 8.94 ! 11.05
| 1
13.36
15.89
18.65
6.29
30
15
< 1:12
1.61 1 1.80 1 2.23
2.70
3.21
3.77
1.93
5:12
2.24 j 2.51 3.1.0
3.74
4.45
5.23
2.75
7:12
3.15
3.53
4.37
5.28
6.28
7.37
3.12
12:12
4.90
5.49
6.79
8.21
9.77
11.46
4.14
30
< 1:12
l.hl
( 8!)
2.23
2.70
3.21
3.77
2.14
5:12
2.74
\51
3 10
3.74
4.45
5.23
3.78
7:12
1 M)
4.82
5.96
7.20
8.57
10.05
4.52
12:12
7.79
8.74
10.80
13.06
15.53
18.23
6.57
45
<1:I2
1.6) :.
l.NI!
2. : -
2.70
3.21
3.77
2.35
5:12
2. 14
2.51
■ in
;..:- \74 '
.';.■ 4.45
5.23
4.81
7:12 5.44 1 6.10
7.54
9.12 10.85
12.73
5.92
12:12
10.69 11.98
14.81
17.90
21.30
25.00
9.00
60
< 1:12
■; 1.61 ; .; ; :,j :,: 1 .80 | :;;\ 2.23 | 2.70
3.21
3.77
2.56
5:12
2.24 .2.51
3.10 3.74
4.45
5.84
7:12
6,59 1 7.39
9.13
11.04
13.14
15.41
7.32
12:12
13.58
15.22
18.82
22.75
27.07
31.77
11.43
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
291
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.7(1 A)— continued
UNREDUCED LENGTH, UR, OF SOLID WALL REQUIRED IN EACH EXTERIOR ENDWALL
FOR WIND PERPENDICULAR TO RIDGE ONE STORY OR TOP STORY OF TWO STORY 3 cdefs
SIDEWALL
LENGTH
(feet)
ENDWALL
LENGTH
(feet)
ROOF
SLOPE
UNREDUCED LENGTH, UR,
OF SOLID WALL REQUIRED IN ENDWALLS FOR WIND PERPENDICULAR
TO RIDGE (feet)
Basic Wind Speed (mph) Exposure
85B
90B
100B
110B
120B
130B
Minimum"
85C
90C
100C
110C
85D
90 D
100D
60
15
< 1:12
.-"
4.14
5.00
5.95
6.98
3.83
5:12
4.15
I :"-.:
5.75 J 6.95
8.27
9.70
5.37
7:12
>:>\
6.63
8.19 9.90
11.78
13.83
6.07
12:12
9.05
10.14
12.54 15.16
18.03
21.16
8.00
30
< 1:12
:<«
3.35
4.14 5 en
5.95
6.98
4.23
5:12
4. 5
!>-••
5.75 J 6 95
8.27
9.70
7.31
7:12
7,v7
8.94
11.05 13.36
15.89
18.65
8.71
12:12
14.25
15.97
19.74 23.86
28.40
33.32
12.57
45
< 1:12
'.>' a:n- ;■'
ilH
4.30 5.20
6.19
7.26
4.63
5:12
4,31 :
<>;!
5 '.'S
7.23
8.60
10.09
9.25
7:12
SO.'-,
11.47
14.19
17. 1 5
20.40
23.84
11.35
12:12
19.84
22.24
27.49
33.23
39.54
46.40
17.14
60
< 1:12
.. >.22
J.fil
4,46 .;.
5.39
6.42 | 7.53
5.03
5:12
4.47
5.01
<i.l 'i
49
8.91 \ 10.46
11.19
7:12
|J57
14.09
17.42
2 1 .05
25.05
29.39
13.99
12:12
25.61
28.70
35.49
42.90
51.04
59.90
21.71
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, I pound-force per linear foot = 0.146 kN/m, 1 pound per square foot = 47.88 Pa.
a. Tabulated lengths were derived by calculating design wind pressures in accordance with Figure 6-10 of ASCE 7 for a building with a mean roof height of 35
feet. For wind perpendicular to the ridge, the effects of a 2-foot overhang on each endwall are included. The design pressures were used to calculate forces to
be resisted by solid wall segments in each endwall [Table R611.7(1A) or R611 .7(1 B) or sidewall (Table R61 1.7(1C)], as appropriate. The forces to be resisted
by each wall line were then divided by the default design strength of 840 pounds per linear foot of length to determine the required solid wall length. The
actual mean roof height of the building shall not exceed the least horizontal dimension of the building.
b. Tabulated lengths in the "minimum" column are based on the requirement of Section 6.1.4.1 of ASCE 7 that the main windforce-resisting system be designed
for a minimum service level force of 10 psf multiplied by the area of the building projected onto a vertical plane normal to the assumed wind direction.
Tabulated lengths in shaded cells are less than the "minimum" value. Where the minimum controls, it is permitted to be reduced in accordance with Notes c,
d and e. See Section R61 1.7.1.1.
c. For buildings with a mean roof height of less than 35 feet, tabulated lengths are permitted to be reduced by multiplying by the appropriate factor, /?„ from
Table R61 1.7(2). The reduced length shall not be less than the "minimum" value shown in the table.
d. Tabulated lengths for "one story or top story of two story" are based on a floor-to-ceiling height of 10 feet. Tabulated lengths for "first story of two story" are
based on floor-to-ceiling heights of 10 feet each for the first and second story. For floor-to-ceiling heights less than assumed, use the lengths in Table
R611.7(1A), (IB) or (1C), or multiply the value in the table by the reduction factor, R 2 , from Table R61 1.7(3).
e. Tabulated lengths are based on the default design shear strength of 840 pounds per linear foot of solid wall segment. The tabulated lengths are permitted to be
reduced by multiplying by the applicable reduction factor for design strength, R„ from Table R611.7(4).
f. The reduction factors, R v R 2 and «,, in Tables R61 1.7(2), R61 1 .7(3), and R6I 1.7(4), respectively, are permitted to be compounded, subject to the limitations
of Note b. However, the minimum number and minimum length of solid walls segments in each wall line shall comply with Sections R61 1.7.1 and
R61 1.7. 2.1, respectively.
g. For intermediate values of sidewall length, endwall length, roof slope and basic wind speed, use the next higher value, or determine by interpolation.
292
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R611. 7(1 B)
UNREDUCED LENGTH, UR, OF SOLID WALL REQUIRED IN EACH EXTERIOR ENDWALL
FOR WIND PERPENDICULAR TO RIDGE FIRST STORY OF TWO STORY acde ^
SIDEWALL
LENGTH
(feet)
ENDWALL
LENGTH
(feet)
ROOF
SLOPE
UNREDUCED LENGTH, UR, OF SOLID WALL REQUIRED IN ENDWALLS FOR WIND PERPENDICULAR TO RIDGE
(feet)
Basic Wind Speed (mph) Exposure
85B
90B
100B
110B
120B
130B
Minimum'
85C
90C
100C
110C
85D
90D
100D
Velocity pressure (psf)
11.51
12.90
15.95
19.28
22.94
26.92
15
15
< 1:12
2.60
2.92
3.61
4.36
5.19
6.09
2.59
5:12
3.61
4.05
5.00
6.05
7.20
8.45
3.05
7:12
3.77
4.23
5.23
6.32
7.52
8.82
3.26
12:12
4.81
5.40
6.67
8.06
9.60
11.26
3.83
30
< 1:12
2.60
2.92
3.61
4.36
5.19
6.09
2.71
5:12
3.61
4.05
5.00
6.05
7.20
8.45
3.63
7:12
4.45
4.99
6.17
7.46
8.88
10.42
4.04
12:12
6.54
7.33
9.06
10.96
13.04
15.30
5.19
45
< 1:12
; 2.60
2.92
3.61
4.36
5.19
6.09
2.83
5:12
3.61
4 05
5.00
6.05
7.20
8.45
4.20
7:12
5.14
5.76
7.12
8.60
10.24
12.01
4.83
12:12
8.27
9.27
11.46
13.85
16.48
19.34
6.55
60
< 1:12
2.60
2.91 S 3.61
4.36
5.19
6.09
2.95
5:12
•.<>l
4.05 5.00
6.05
7.20
8.45
4.78
7:12
5.82
6.52
8.06
9.75
11.60
13.61
5.61
12:12
9.99
11.20
13.85
16.74
19.92
23.37
7.90
30
15
< 1:12
4.65
5.21
6.45
7.79
9.27
10.88
5.16
5:12
6.46
7.24
8.95
10.82
12.87
15.10
5.98
7:12
6.94
7.78
9.62
11.62
13.83
16.23
6.35
12:12
8.69
9.74
12.04
14.55
17.32
20.32
7.38
30
< 1:12
4.65
5.21
6.45
7.79
9.27
10.88
5.38
5:12
6,-tf.
7.24
8.95
10.82
12.87
15.10
7.01
7:12
8.09
9.06
11.21
13.54
16.12
18.91
7.76
12:12
11.58
12.98
16.05
19.40
23.08
27.09
9.81
45
< 1:12
1.65
5 U
6.45
7.79
9.27
10.88
5.59
5:12
6.46
7.24
8.95
10.82
12.87
15.10
8.04
7:12
9.23
10.35
12.79
15.46
18.40
21.59
9.16
12:12
14.48
16.22
20.06
24.25
28.85
33.86
12.24
60
< 1:12
4 65 I
5.21
6.45
7.79
9.27
10.88
5.80
5:12
7:12
6.46 f 7.24
8,95
10.82
12.87
15.10
9.08
10.38 11.63
14.38
17.38
20.69
24.27
10.56
12:12
17.37
19.47
24.07
29.10
34.62
40.63
14.67
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
293
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.7(1 B)— continued
UNREDUCED LENGTH, UR, OF SOLID WALL REQUIRED IN EACH EXTERIOR ENDWALL
FOR WIND PERPENDICULAR TO RIDGE FIRST STORY OF TWO STORY"- 5 " e g
SIDEWALL
LENGTH
(feet)
ENDWALL
LENGTH
(feet)
ROOF
SLOPE
UNREDUCED LENGTH, UR, OF SOLID WALL REQUIRED IN ENDWALLS FOR WIND PERPENDICULAR TO RIDGE
(feet)
Basic Wind Speed (mph) Exposure
85B
90B
100B
110B
120B
130B
Minimum"
85C
90C
100C
110C
85D
90D
100D
Velocity pressure (psf)
11.51
12.90
15.95
19.28
22.94
26.92
60
15
< 1:12
,/'.;.. 8.62
■ '9.67 ■
11.95
14.45
17.19
20.17
10.30
5:12
11. 98
I 5.43
16.61
20.07
23.88
28.03
11.85
7:12
13.18
14.78
18.27
22.08
26.28
30.83
12.54
12:12
16.32
18.29
22.62
27.34
32.53
38.17
14.48
30
< 1:12
" "■■ H.6-
-i.ir
11.95
14.45
17.19
20.17
10.70
5:12
U.98
i =4)
16.61
20.07
23.88
28.03
13.79
7:12
15.25
17.09
21.13
25.54
30.38
35.66
15.18
12:12
21.52
24.12
29.82
36.05
42.89
50.33
19.05
45
< 1:12
8,97
1 0.0ft
12.43
15.03
17.88
20.99
11.10
5:12
12.46
' "■ '.'7
17.27
20.88
24.84
29.15
15.73
7:12
17.67
19.80
24.48
29.59
35.21
41.32
17.82
12:12
27.27
30.56
37.79
45.68
54.35
63.78
23.62
60
< 1:12
1 'i ;o
10.43
12.89
15.58
18.54
21.76
11.50
5:12
12.91 ; 1 4.47
17.90
21.63
25.74
30.20
17.67
7:12
V 20.14
22.58
27.91
33.74
40.15
47.11
20.46
12:12
33.19
37.19
45.99
55.59
66.14
77.62
28.19
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound force per linear foot = 0.146 kN/m, 1 pound per square foot = 47.88 Pa.
a Tabulated lengths were derived by calculating design wind pressures in accordance with Figure 6-10 of ASCE 7 for a building with a mean roof height of 35
feet For wind perpendicular to the ridge, the effects of a 2-foot overhang on each endwall are included. The design pressures were used to calculate forces to
be resisted by solid wall segments in each endwall [Table R611.7(1A) or R611.7(1B)] or sidewal! [Table R611.7(1C)], as appropriate. The forces to be
resisted by each wall line were then divided by the default design strength of 840 pounds per linear foot of length to determine the required solid wall length.
The actual mean roof height of the building shall not exceed the least horizontal dimension of the building,
b Tabulated lengths in the "minimum" column are based on the requirement of Section 6. 1 .4. 1 of ASCE 7 that the main windforce-resisting system be designed
for a minimum service level force of 10 psf multiplied by the area of the building projected onto a vertical plane normal to the assumed wind direction.
Tabulated lengths in shaded cells are less than the "minimum" value. Where the minimum controls, it is permitted to be reduced in accordance with Notes c,
dande. See Section R611.7.1.I.
c. For buildings with a mean roof height of less than 35 feet, tabulated lengths are permitted to be reduced by multiplying by the appropriate factor, R v from
Table R61 1.7(2). The reduced length shall not be less than the "minimum" value shown in the table.
Tabulated lengths for "one story or top story of two story" are based on a floor-to-ceiling height of 10 feet. Tabulated lengths for "first story of two story" are
based on floor-to-ceiling heights of 10 feet each for the first and second story. For floor-to-ceiling heights less than assumed, use the lengths in Table
R61 1.7(1 A), (1B) or (1C), or multiply the value in the table by the reduction factor, R 2 , from Table R61 1.7(3).
Tabulated lengths are based on the default design shear strength of 840 pounds per linear foot of solid wall segment. The tabulated lengths are permitted to be
reduced by multiplying by the applicable reduction factor for design strength, R v from Table R61 1 .7(4).
The reduction factors, \, J?, and R„ in Tables R61 1.7(2), R611.7(3), and R61 1.7(4), respectively, are permitted to be compounded, subject to the limitations
of Note b. However, the minimum number and minimum length of solid walls segments in each wall line shall comply with Sections R6I 1.7.1 and
R61 1.7. 2.1, respectively,
g. For intermediate values of sidewall length, endwall length, roof slope and basic wind speed, use the next higher value, or determine by interpolation.
d.
f.
294
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R611. 7(1 C)
UNREDUCED LENGTH, UR, OF SOLID WALL REQUIRED IN EACH
EXTERIOR SIDEWALL FOR WIND PARALLEL TO RIDGE 3 < <=•"<=•<"
SIDEWALL
LENGTH
(feet)
ENDWALL
LENGTH
(feet)
ROOF
SLOPE
UNREDUCED LENGTH, UR, OF SOLID WALL REQUIRED IN ENDWALLS FOR WIND PERPENDICULAR TO RIDGE (feet)
Basic Wind Speed (mph) Exposure
85B
90B
100B
110B
120B
130B
Minimum"
85C
90C
100C
110C
85D
90D
100D
One story or top story of two story
<30
15
< 1:12
0.95
1.06
1.31
1.59
1.89
2.22
0.90
5:12
1.13
1.26
1.56
1.88
2.24
2.63
1.08
7:12
1.21
1.35
1.67
2.02
2.40
2.82
1.17
12:12
1.43
1.60
1.98
2.39
2.85
3.34
1.39
30
< 1:12
! - 7 ?
1.98
2.45
2.96
3.53
4.14
1.90
5:12
2.38
2.67
3.30
3.99
4.75
5.57
2.62
7:12
2.66
2.98
3.69
4.46
5.31
6.23
2.95
12:12 , M3
V.\ ; .
4.76
5.75
6.84
8.03
3.86
45
< 1:12 ,
2.97
3.67
4.43
5.27
6.19
2.99
5:12
1,46
5.51
6.66
7.93
9.31
4.62
7:12
4.58
5.14
6.35
7.68
9.14
10.72
5.36
12:12
6 f - I 7,01
8.67
10.48
12.47
14.63
7.39
60
< 1:12
3.5'? t 4.03
4.98
6.02
7.16
8.40
4.18
5:12
nr>
(i.65
8.22
9.93
11.82
13.87
7.07
7:12
6.99
<',:v | 9.69
11.71
13.93
16.35
8.38
12:12
9.92
I • 1 1 1 13.75
16.62
19.77
23.21
12.00
60
45
< 1:12
2.77
3.11
3.84
4.65
5.53
6.49
2.99
5:12
.15
4.66
5.76
6.96
8.28
9.72
4.62
7:12
"• ■■' 4.78
5.36
6.63
8.01
9.53
11.18
5.36
12:12
6,51
7.3o ;
9.03
10.91
12.98
15.23
7.39
60
<1:12 i 3,86
4.32
5.35
6.46
7.69
9.02
4.18
5:12 J 6.31
7.08
8.75
10.57
12.58
14.76
7.07
7:12
'.43
8.32
10.29
12.44
14.80
17.37
8.38
12:12
10.51
11.78
14.56
17.60
20.94
24.57
12.00
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
295
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1. 7(1 C)— continued
UNREDUCED LENGTH, UR, OF SOLID WALL REQUIRED IN EACH
EXTERIOR SIDEWALL FOR WIND PARALLEL TO RIDGE 3 ' c > d e ' s
SIDEWALL
LENGTH
(feet)
ENDWALL
LENGTH
(feet)
ROOF
SLOPE
UNREDUCED LENGTH, UR, OF SOLID WALL REQUIRED IN ENDWALLS FOR WIND PERPENDICULAR TO RIDGE (feet)
Basic Wind Speed (mph) Exposure
85B
90S
100B
110B
120B
130B
Minimum"
85C
90C
100C
110C
85D
90D
100D
One story or top story of two story
First story of two story
<30
15
< 1:12
2.65
2.97
3.67
4.44
5.28
6.20
2.52
5:12
2.83
3.17
3.92
4.74
5.64
6.62
2.70
7:12
2.91
3.26
4.03
4.87
5.80
6.80
2.79
12:12
3.13
3.51
4.34
5.25
6.24
7.32
3.01
30
< 1:12
i.Hi
5.39
6.67
8.06
9.59
1 1 .25
5.14
5:12
5.4:
6.08
7.52
9.09
10.81
12.69
5.86
7:12
5.70
6.39
7.90
9.55
11.37
13.34
6.19
12:12 ; 6,17
7.25
8.97
10.84
12.90
15.14
7.10
45
<l:12
■•>..
1 1 .ss
9.69
11.71
13.93
16.35
7.85
5:12 '
11.53
13.94
16.59
19.47
9.48
7:12
s.»;
12.37
14.95
17.79
20.88
10.21
12:12
10.60
14.69
17.75
21.13
24.79
12.25
60
< 1:12
4 > ',
10 35
12.79
15.46
18.40
21.59
10.65
5:12
i! -,i
\'l •'.'
16.03
19.38
23.06
27.06
13.54
7:12
12.63
14.! 5
;7-l4
8.22
17.50
21.15
25.17
29.54
14.85
12:12
• c 56
21.56
26.06
31.01
36.39
18.48
60
45
< 1:12
• -
10.17
12.29
14.62
17.16
7.85
5:12
.S72
9.77
12.08
14.60
17.37
20.39
9.48
7:12
v V:
10.47
12.95
15.65
18.62
21.85
10.21
12:12
• 1 «.s
12.41
15.35
18.55
22.07
25.90
12.25
60
< 1:12
'? 64
11.14
13.77
16.65
19.81
23.25
10.65
5:12
' -■'
13.89
17.18
20.76
24.70
28.99
13.54
7:12
I.. : 51
15.14
18.72
22.63
26.92
31.60
14.85
12:12
16.59
18.59
22.99
27.79
33.06
38.80
18.48
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, I mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound force per linear foot = 0.146 kN/m, 1 pound per square foot = 47.88 Pa.
a. Tabulated lengths were derived by calculating design wind pressures in accordance with Figure 6-10 of ASCE 7 for a building with a mean roof height of 35
feet. For wind perpendicular to the ridge, the effects of a 2-foot overhang on each endwall are included. The design pressures were used to calculate forces to
be resisted by solid wall segments in each endwall [Table R61 1.7(1A) or R611.7(1B)] or sidewall [(Table R61I.7(1Q], as appropriate. The forces to be
resisted by each wall line were then divided by the default design strength of 840 pounds per linear foot of length to determine the required solid wall length.
The actual mean roof height of the building shall not exceed the least horizontal dimension of the building.
b. Tabulated lengths in the "minimum" column are based on the requirement of Section 6.1 .4.1 of ASCE 7 that the main windforce-resisting system be designed
for a minimum service level force of 10 psf multiplied by the area of the building projected onto a vertical plane normal to the assumed wind direction.
Tabulated lengths in shaded cells are less than the "minimum" value. Where the minimum controls, it is permitted to be reduced in accordance with Notes c,
dande. See Section R61 1.7.1.1.
c. For buildings with a mean roof height of less than 35 feet, tabulated lengths are permitted to be reduced by multiplying by the appropriate factor, «,, from
Table R6 1 1 .7(2). The reduced length shall not be less than the "minimum" value shown in the table.
d. Tabulated lengths for "one story or top story of two story" are based on a floor-to-ceiling height of 10 feet. Tabulated lengths for "first story of two story" are
based on floor-to-ceiling heights of 10 feet each for the first and second story. For floor-to-ceiling heights less than assumed, use the lengths in Table
R6 1 1 .7(1 A), (1 B) or (1 C), or multiply the value in the table by the reduction factor, R 2 , from Table R61 1 .7(3).
e. Tabulated lengths are based on the default design shear strength of 840 pounds per linear foot of solid wall segment. The tabulated lengths are permitted to be
reduced by multiplying by the applicable reduction factor for design strength, R 3 , from Table R61 1 .7(4).
f. The reduction factors, R„ R 2 and R„ in Tables R61 1.7(2), R61 1.7(3), and R61 1.7(4), respectively, are permitted to be compounded, subject to the limitations
of Note b. However, the minimum number and minimum length of solid walls segments in each wall line shall comply with Sections R61 1.7.1 and
R61 1.7.2.1, respectively.
g. For intermediate values of sidewall length, endwall length, roof slope and basic wind speed, use the next higher value, or determine by interpolation.
296
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.7(2)
REDUCTION FACTOR, R v FOR BUILDINGS WITH MEAN ROOF HEIGHT LESS THAN 35 FEET a
MEAN ROOF HEIGHT"
(feet)
REDUCTION FACTOR R„ FOR MEAN ROOF HEIGHT
Exposure category
B
C
D
<15
0.96
0.84
0.87
20
0.96
0.89
0.91
25
0.96
0.93
0.94
30
0.96
0.97
0.98
35
1.00
1.00
1.00
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I degree = 0.0175 rad.
a. See Section R611.7.1.1 and Note c to Table R61 1.7(1 A) for application of reduction factors in this table. This reduction is not permitted for "minimum"
values.
b. For intermediate values of mean roof height, use the factor for the next greater height, or determine by interpolation.
c. Mean roof height is the average of the roof eave height and height of the highest point on the roof surface, except that for roof slopes of less than or equal to
2'/ s : 12 (10 degrees), the mean roof height is permitted to be taken as the roof eave height.
TABLE R61 1.7(3)
REDUCTION FACTOR, R 2 , FOR FLOOR-TO-CEILING WALL HEIGHTS LESS THAN 10 FEET ab
STORY UNDER
CONSIDERATION
FLOOR-TO-CEILING HEIGHT'
(feet)
ENDWALL LENGTH
(feet)
ROOF SLOPE
REDUCTION FACTOR, R 2
Endwalls— for wind perpendicular to ridge
One story or top story of two story
8
15
< 5:12
0.83
7:12
0.90
12:12
0.94
60
< 5:12
0.83
7:12
0.95
12:12
0.98
First story of two story
1 6 combined first and second story
15
<5:12
0.83
7:12
0.86
12:12
0.89
60
< 5:12
0.83
7:12
0.91
12:12
0.95
Sidewalls — for wind parallel to ridge
One story or top story of two story
8
15
< 1:12
0.84
5:12
0.87
7:12
0.88
12:12
0.89
60
<1:12
0.86
5:12
0.92
7:12
0.93
12:12
0.95
First story of two story
16 combined first and second story
15
<1:12
0.83
5:12
0.84
7:12
0.85
12:12
0.86
60
< 1:12
0.84
5:12
0.87
7:12
0.88
12:12
0.90
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. See Section R61 1.7.1.1 and Note d to Table R61 1.7(1 A) for application of reduction factors in this table.
b. For intermediate values of endwall length, and/or roof slope, use the next higher value, or determine by interpolation.
c. Tabulated values in Table R6 11 .7(1 A) and (1C) for "one story or top story of two story" are based on a floor-to-ceiling height of 10 feet. Tabulated values in
Table R611.7(1B) and (1C) for "first story of two story" are based on floor-to-ceiling heights of 10 feet each for the first and second story. For floor to ceiling
heights between those shown in this table and those assumed in Table R61 1.7(1A), (IB) or (1C), use the solid wall lengths in Table R61 1.7(1A), (IB) or (1C),
or determine the reduction factor by interpolating between 1.0 and the factor shown in this table.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
297
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.7(4)
REDUCTION FACTOR FOR DESIGN STRENGTH, R 3 , FOR FLAT, WAFFLE- AND SCREEN-GRID WALLS ac
NOMINAL
THICKNESS OF
WALL
(inches)
VERTICAL BARS AT EACH END OF
SOLID WALL SEGMENT
VERTICAL
REINFORCEMENT
LAYOUT DETAIL
[see Figure R61 1.7(2)]
REDUCTION FACTOR, ft,, FOR LENGTH OF SOLID WALL
Horizontal and vertical shear reinforcement provided
Number of bars
Bar size
No
Yes"
40,000"
60,000"
40,000 b
60,000"
Flat walls
4
2
4
I
0.74
. 0.61 .
0.74
0.50
3
4
2
0.61
0.61
0.52
0.27
2
5
1
0.61
II.!, 1
0.48
0.25
3
5
2
0.61
llfil
0.26
0.18
6
2
4
3
0.70
0.48
0.70
0.48
3
4
4
0.49
11.38
0.49
0.33
2
5
3
0.46
,.;«
0.46
0.31
3
5
4
V:
0.3S
0.32
0.16
8
2
4
3
0.70
0.47
0.70
0.47
3
4
5
0.47
0.32
0.47
0.32
2
5
3
0.45
0.31
0.45
0.31
4
4
6
0.36
ii 2*
0.36
0.25
3
5
5
0.31
U.28
0.31
0.16
4
5
r> II.2S
!! >
0.24
0.12
10
2
4
3 0.70
0.47
0.70
0.47
2
5
3
0.45
0.30
0.45
0.30
4
4
7
0.36
0.25
0.36
0.25
6
4
8
0.25
0.22
0.25
0.13
4
5
7
0.24
O 2*2
0.24
0.12
6
5
8
ii 22
',1
0.12
0.08
Waffle-grid walls"
6
2
4
3
.'I.-7S
(1 "S
0.78
0.70
0.48
3
4
4
o ;s
0.49
0.25
2
5
3
<) VS
0.78
0.46
0.23
3
5
4
!»>
, 8
0.24
0.16
8
2
4
3
ii ■:;
(1 "N
0.70
0.47
3
4
5
o ";;
7S
0.47
0.24
2
5
3 j 7"
i) ~'x
0.45
0.23
4
4
6
0.78
0.36
0.18
3
5
5
D.7S
0.78
0.23
0.16
4
5
6
■ :..«:/« *■ '
0.18
';.. 0.1.?
Screen-grid walls e
6
2
4
3
0,'H
ii '13
it*
0.70
0.48
3
4
4
0.93
0.49
0.25
2
5
3
0.93
h'H
0.46
0.23
3
5
4
1 0y '
u»-
0.24
0.16
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 ,000 pounds per square inch = 6.895 MPa.
a. See Note e to Table R61 1.7(1 A) for application of adjustment factors in this table.
b. Yield strength in pounds per square inch of vertical wall reinforcement at ends of solid wall segments.
c. Values are based on concrete with a specified compressive strength, f' r , of 2,500 psi. Where concrete with /' r of not less than 3,000 psi is used, values in
shaded cells are permitted to be decreased by multiplying by 0.91 .
d. Horizontal and vertical shear reinforcement shall be provided in accordance with Section R61 1.7.2.2.
e. Each end of each solid wall segment shall have rectangular flanges. In the fhrough-fhe-wall dimension, the flange shall not be less than 5'/ 2 inches for 6-inch-
nominal waffle- and screen-grid walls, and not less than 7'/, inches for 8-inch-nominal waffle-grid walls. In the in-plane dimension, flanges shall be long
enough to accommodate the vertical reinforcement required by the layout detail selected from Figure R61 1.7(2) and provide the cover required by Section
R6I 1.5.4.1. If necessary to achieve the required dimensions, form material shall be removed or use of flat wall forms is permitted.
298
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
WIND
PERPENDICULAR
TO RIDGE
ONE STORY OR TOP STORY OF
TWO STORY
[TABLE R611. 7(1 B)]
SEE SECTION R611. 7.1.1
FIRST STORY OF TWO STORY
[(TABLE R61 1.7(1 A)]
SEE SECTION R611. 7.1.1
ENDWALL
WIND
PARALLEL
TO RIDGE
ONE STORY OR TOP STORY OF
TWO STORY
[TABLE R611. 7(1 C)]
SEE SECTION R611. 7.1.1
FIRST STORY OF TWO STORY
[TABLE R611 .7(1 C)]
SEE SECTION R611. 7.1.1
ENDWALL
NOTE: EACH SOLID WALL SEGMENT (A, B, C, D,
E, AND F) SHALL COMPLY WITH THE MINIMUM
SOLID WALL SEGMENT LENGTH IN ORDER TO
BE APPLICABLE TO THE MINIMUM SOLID WALL
LENGTH EQUATIONS IN SECTION R611. 7.1.1.
SEE SECTION R61 1.7.2
FIGURE R611.7(1)
MINIMUM SOLID WALL LENGTH
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE*
299
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R611.7.2 Solid wall segments. Solid wall segments that
contribute to the required length of solid wall shall comply
with this section. Reinforcement shall be provided in
accordance with Section R61 1.7.2.2 and Table R61 1.7(4).
Solid wall segments shall extend the full story-height
without openings, other than openings for the utilities and
other building services passing through the wall. In flat
walls and waffle-grid walls, such openings shall have an
area of less than 30 square inches (19 355 mm 2 ) with no
dimension exceeding 6'/ 4 inches (159 mm), and shall not
be located within 6 inches (152 mm) of the side edges of
the solid wall segment. In screen-grid walls, such openings
shall be located in the portion of the solid wall segment
between horizontal and vertical cores of concrete and
opening size and location are not restricted provided no
concrete is removed.
R61 1.7.2.1 Minimum length of solid wall segment
and maximum spacing. Only solid wall segments
equal to or greater than 24 inches (610 mm) in length
shall be included in the total length of solid wall
required by Section R61 1 .7. 1 . In addition, no more than
two solid wall segments equal to or greater than 24
inches (610 mm) in length and less than 48 inches
(1219 mm) in length shall be included in the required
total length of solid wall. The maximum clear opening
width shall be 18 feet (5486 mm). See Figure
R611.7(l).
R611.7.2.2 Reinforcement in solid wall segments.
R611.7.2.2.1 Horizontal shear reinforcement.
Where reduction factors for design strength, 7?,,
from Table R61 1.7(4) based on horizontal and verti-
cal shear reinforcement being provided are used,
solid wall segments shall have horizontal reinforce-
ment consisting of minimum No. 4 bars. Horizontal
shear reinforcement shall be the same grade of steel
required for the vertical reinforcement at the ends of
solid wall segments by Section R61 1.7.2.2.2.
The spacing of horizontal reinforcement shall not
exceed the smaller of one-half the length of the solid
wall segment, minus 2 inches (51 mm), and 18
inches (457 mm). Horizontal shear reinforcement
shall terminate in accordance with Section R61 1.6.4.
R61 1.7.2.2.2 Vertical reinforcement. Vertical rein-
forcement applicable to the reduction factor(s) for
design strength, R y from Table R61 1.7(4) that is
used, shall be located at each end of each solid wall
segment in accordance with the applicable detail in
Figure R61 1 .7(2). The No. 4 vertical bar required on
each side of an opening by Section R611.8.1.2 is
permitted to be used as reinforcement at the ends of
solid wall segments where installed in accordance
with the applicable detail in Figure R61 1.7(2). There
shall be not less than two No. 4 bars at each end of
solid wall segments located as required by the appli-
cable detail in Figure R6 11.7(2). One of the bars at
each end of solid wall segments shall be deemed to
meet the requirements for vertical wall reinforce-
ment required by Section R61 1.6.
The vertical wall reinforcement at each end of
each solid wall segment shall be developed below
the bottom of the adjacent wall opening [see Figure
R61 1 .7(3)] by one of the following methods:
1 . Where the wall height below the bottom of the
adjacent opening is equal to or greater than 22
inches (559 mm) for No. 4 or 28 inches (711
mm) for No. 5 vertical wall reinforcement,
reinforcement around openings in accordance
with Section R61 1 .8.1 shall be sufficient, or
2. Where the wall height below the bottom of the
adjacent opening is less than required by Item
1 above, the vertical wall reinforcement adja-
cent to the opening shall extend into the foot-
ing far enough to develop the bar in tension in
accordance with Section R6 11.5.4.4 and Fig-
ure R61 1.5.4(2), or shall be lap-spliced with a
dowel that is embedded in the footing far
enough to develop the dowel-bar in tension.
R611.7.2.2.3 Vertical shear reinforcement. Where
reduction factors for design strength, R y from Table
R61 1.7(4) based on horizontal and vertical shear
reinforcement being provided are used, solid wall
segments shall have vertical reinforcement consist-
ing of minimum No. 4 bars. Vertical shear reinforce-
ment shall be the same grade of steel required by
Section R61 1.7.2.2.2 for the vertical reinforcement
at the ends of solid wall segments. The spacing of
vertical reinforcement throughout the length of the
segment shall not exceed the smaller of one third the
length of the segment, and 18 inches (457 mm). Ver-
tical shear reinforcement shall be continuous
between stories in accordance with Section
R61 1.6.3, and shall terminate in accordance with
Section R61 1.6.4. Vertical shear reinforcement
required by this section is permitted to be used for
vertical reinforcement required by Table R6 11.6(1),
R61 1.6(2), R6 1 1.6(3) or R61 1.6(4), whichever is
applicable.
R611.7.2.3 Solid wall segments at corners. At all
interior and exterior corners of exterior walls, a solid
wall segment shall extend the full height of each wall
story. The segment shall have the length required to
develop the horizontal reinforcement above and below
the adjacent opening in tension in accordance with Sec-
tion R6 1 1.5.4.4. For an exterior corner, the limiting
dimension is measured on the outside of the wall, and
for an interior corner the limiting dimension is mea-
sured on the inside of the wall. See Section R6I 1.8.1.
The length of a segment contributing to the required
length of solid wall shall comply with Section
R611.7.2.1.
The end of a solid wall segment complying with the
minimum length requirements of Section R61 1.7.2.1
shall be located no more than 6 feet (1829 mm) from
each corner.
300
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
DETAIL
NO.
NOM. WALL
THICKNESS, IN
REINFORCEMENT LAYOUT AT ENDS OF
SOLID WALL SEGMENTS
NOTES
! L
3 inch.Max. typical
2 inch Typical
I
* © ©
-r
6
8
10
111
Sit
-I
1 inch Min. clear spacing typical
lljilll
->
10
Hi
; ,c
10
© ®
iHiill
® ©
* For minimum cover see Section R61 1 .5.4.1
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
1 . See Table R61 1 .7(4) for use
of details.
2. Minimum length of solid wall
segment and size and grade
of reinforcement in each end
of each solid wall segment
shall be determined from
Table R61 1.7(4).
3. For minimum cover requirements,
see Section R61 1.5.4.1.
For details 3-8 where two
or more bars are in the same
row parallel to the end of the
segment, place bars so that
corner bars are as close to the
sides of the wall segments as
minimum cover requirements
of Section R611.5.4.1 will permit.
5. For waffle- and screen-grid walls,
each end of each solid wall
segment shall have rectangular
flanges. In the through-the-wall
dimension, the flange shall not be
less than 5V 2 inches for 6-inch -
nominal waffle- and screen-grid
forms, and not less than 7V 2
inches for 8-inch-nominal waffle-
grid forms. In the in-plane
dimension, flanges shall be long
enough to accommodate the
vertical reinforcement required
by the layout detail selected and
provide the cover required by
Section R61 1.5.4.1 If necessary
to achieve the required
dimensions, form material shall be
removed or flat wall forms are
permitted. See Table R61 1 .7(4),
Note e.
FIGURE R61 1.7(2)
VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT LAYOUT DETAIL
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 13
301
WALL CONSTRUCTION
WALL
FOOTING
w
VERTICAL WALL REINFORCEMENT
AT END OF SOLID WALL SEGMENT
SEE SECTION R611. 7.2,2.2
WALL HEIGHT
BELOW LOWEST
ADJACENT
OPENING MORE
THAN REQUIRED
BY SECTION
R6117.2.2.2
VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT EXTENDED
OR DOWELED TO FOUNDATION WHERE
WALL HEIGHT BELOW OPENING IS LESS
THAN REQUIRED BY SECTION RB1L7.2.2.2
ALSO, SEE FIGURE R611.8(1)
FIGURE R61 1.7(3)
VERTICAL WALL REINFORCEMENT ADJACENT TO WALL OPENINGS
R611.8 Requirements for lintels and reinforcement
around openings.
R61L8.1 Reinforcement around openings. Reinforce-
ment shall be provided around openings in walls equal to
or greater than 2 feet (610 mm) in width in accordance
with this section and Figure R61 1.8(1), in addition to the
minimum wall reinforcement required by Sections
R404.1.2, R61 1.6 and R61 1.7. Vertical wall reinforcement
required by this section is permitted to be used as rein-
forcement at the ends of solid wall segments required by
Section R61 1.7.2.2.2 provided it is located in accordance
with Section R61 1 .8.1.2. Wall openings shall have a mini-
mum depth of concrete over the width of the opening of 8
inches (203 mm) in flat walls and waffle-grid walls, and
12 inches (305 mm) in screen-grid walls. Wall openings in
waffle-grid and screen-grid walls shall be located such that
not less than one-half of a vertical core occurs along each
side of the opening.
R611.8.1.1 Horizontal reinforcement. Lintels com-
plying with Section R61 1.8.2 shall be provided above
wall openings equal to or greater than 2 feet (610 mm)
in width.
Exception: Continuous horizontal wall reinforce-
ment placed within 12 inches (305 mm) of the top of
the wall story as required in Sections R404. 1.2.2 and
R61 1.6.2 is permitted in lieu of top or bottom lintel
reinforcement required by Section R6 11.8.2 pro-
vided that the continuous horizontal wall reinforce-
ment meets the location requirements specified in
Figures R61 1.8(2), R611.8(3), and R61 1.8(4) and
the size requirements specified in Tables R61 1.8(2)
through R61 1.8(10).
Openings equal to or greater than 2 feet (610 mm) in
width shall have a minimum of one No. 4 bar placed
within 12 inches (305 mm) of the bottom of the open-
ing. See Figure R61 1.8(1).
Horizontal reinforcement placed above and below
an opening shall extend beyond the edges of the open-
ing the dimension required to develop the bar - in tension
in accordance with Section R61 1.5.4.4.
R61 1.8.1.2 Vertical reinforcement. Not less than one
No. 4 bar [Grade 40 (280 MPa)] shall be provided on
each side of openings equal to or greater than 2 feet
(610 mm) in width. The vertical reinforcement required
by this section shall extend the full height of the wall
story and shall be located within 12 inches (305 mm) of
each side of the opening. The vertical reinforcement
required on each side of an opening by this section is
permitted to serve as reinforcement at the ends of solid
wall segments in accordance with Section
R61 1.7.2.2.2, provided it is located as required by the
applicable detail in Figure R61 1.7(2). Where the verti-
cal reinforcement required by this section is used to sat-
isfy the requirements of Section R61 1 .7.2.2.2 in waffle-
and screen-grid walls, a concrete flange shall be created
at the ends of the solid wall segments in accordance
with Table R61 1.7(4), note e. In the top-most story, the
reinforcement shall terminate in accordance with Sec-
tion R61 1.6.4.
302
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
CONTINUOUS BAR AS REQUIRED
BY SECTION R611.6.2 SHALL BE
PERMITTED TO BE USED AS LINTEL
REINFORCEMENT WHERE LOCATED
AS SHOWN IN FIGURES R611.8(2),
R611.8(3)ANDR611.8(4)
FLAT AND WAFFLE-GRID-
8 IN. MIN. SCREEN-GRID-
12 IN. MIN.
SEE FIGURES R611. 8(2),
R611.8(3)ANDR611.8(4)
CENTER DISTANCE,
A, NOT REQUIRING
STIRRUPS
TOP OF
WALL STORY
-y-Y-Ar
WALL REINFORCEMENT
AS REQUIRED
"LENGTH REQUIRED TO
DEVELOP BAR IN TENSION -
SEE SECTION R611. 8.1.1
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
TOP AND BOTTOM
LINTEL REINFORCEMNT
AS REQUIRED -SEE
SECTION R611. 8.2
VERTICAL REINFORCEMENT BESIDE OPENING.
SEE SECTION R611.8.1. 2
ELEVATION OF WALL
FIGURE R611.8(1)
REINFORCEMENT OF OPENINGS
R611.8.2 Lintels. Lintels shall be provided over all open-
ings equal to or greater than 2 feet (610 mm) in width. Lin-
tels with uniform loading shall conform to Sections
R61 1.8.2.1 and R61 1.8.2.2, or Section R61 1.8.2.3. Lintels
supporting concentrated loads, such as from roof or floor
beams or girders, shall be designed in accordance with
ACI318.
R611.8.2.1 Lintels designed for gravity load-bearing
conditions. Where a lintel will be subjected to gravity
load condition 1 through 5 of Table R61 1.8(1), the
clear span of the lintel shall not exceed that permitted
by Tables R61 1.8(2) through R61 1.8(8). The maximum
clear span of lintels with and without stirrups in flat
walls shall be determined in accordance with Tables
R61 1 .8(2) through R61 1 .8(5), and constructed in accor-
dance with Figure R61 1.8(2). The maximum clear span
of lintels with and without stirrups in waffle-grid walls
shall be determined in accordance with Tables
R61 1.8(6) and R61 1.8(7), and constructed in accor-
dance with Figure R61 1.8(3). The maximum clear span
of lintels with and without stirrups in screen-grid walls
shall be determined in accordance with Table
R61 1.8(8), and constructed in accordance with Figure
R61 1.8(4).
Where required by the applicable table, No. 3 stir-
rups shall be installed in lintels at a maximum spacing
of d/2 where d equals the depth of the lintel, D, less the
cover of the concrete as shown in Figures R6 11.8(2)
through R6 11.8(4). The smaller value of d computed
for the top and bottom bar shall be used to determine
the maximum stirrup spacing. Where stirrups are
required in a lintel with a single bar or two bundled bars
in the top and bottom, they shall be fabricated like the
letter "c" or "s" with 135-degree (2.36 rad) standard
hooks at each end that comply with Section R61 1.5.4.5
and Figure R6 11.5.4(3) and installed as shown in Fig-
ures R61 1.8(2) through R61 1.8(4). Where two bars are
required in the top and bottom of the lintel and the bars
are not bundled, the bars shall be separated by a mini-
mum of 1 inch (25 mm). The free end of the stirrups
shall be fabricated with 90- or 1 35-degree (1 .57 or 2.36
rad) standard hooks that comply with Section
R6 11.5.4.5 and Figure R6 11.5.4(3) and installed as
shown in Figures R61 1.8(2) and R61 1.8(3). For flat,
waffle-grid and screen-grid lintels, stirrups are not
required in the center distance, A, portion of spans in
accordance with Figure R61 1.8(1) and Tables
R61 1.8(2) through R61 1.8(8). See Section R61 1.8.2.2,
Item 5, for requirement for stirrups through out lintels
with bundled bars.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
303
WALL CONSTRUCTION
HORIZONTAL TOP
LINTEL REINFORCEMENT
AS REQUIRED*
MINIMUM NO. 3
STIRRUP AS REQUIRED
-C" STIRRUPS ARE
ACCEPTABLE
FORM - STAY-IN-PLACE
OR REMOVABLE
HORIZONTAL BOTTOM
LINTEL REINFORCEMENT
AS REQUIRED'
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
■FOR BUNDLED BARS, SEE SECTION R61 1.8.2.2.
SECTION CUT THROUGH FLAT WALL LINTEL
FIGURE R61 1.8(2)
LINTEL FOR FLAT WALLS
HORIZONTAL TOP
LINTEL REINFORCEMENT
AS REQUIRED
MINIMUM NO. 3
STIRRUP AS REQUIRED
"C" STIRRUPS ARE
ACCEPTABLE
CONCRETE WEB (HIDDEN)
VERTICAL CONCRETE CORE
FORM - STAY-IN-PLACE
OR REMOVEABLE
HORI70NTAL BOTTOM LINTEL REINFORCEMENT AS REQUIRED'
(a) SINGLE FORM HEIGHT SECTION CUT THROUGH VERTICAL CORE OF A WAFFLE-GRID LINTEL
HORIZONTAL TOP
LINTEL REINFORCEMENT
AS REQUIRED'
MINIMUM NO. 3
STIRRUP AS REQUIRED ■
"C" STIRRUPS ARE
ACCEPTABLE
- CONCRETE WEB (HIDDEN)
FORM - STAY-IN-PLACE
OR REMOVEABLE
VERTICAL CONCRETE CORE
HORIZONTAL BOTTOM
LINTEL REINFORCEMENT
AS REQUIRED'
(b) DOUBLE FORM HEIGHT SECTION CUT THROUGH VERTICAL CORE OF A WAFFLE-GRID LINTEL
•FOR BUNDLED BARS, SEE SECTION R611. 8.2.2.
NOTE: CROSS-HATCHING REPRESENTS THE AREA IN WHICH FORM MATERIAL SHALL BE REMOVED,
IF NECESSARY, TO CREATE FLANGES CONTINUOUS THE LENGTH OF THE LINTEL. FLANGES SHALL
HAVE A MINIMUM THICKNESS OF 3 IN. AND A MINIMUM WIDTH OF 5 IN. AND 7 IN IN S IN. NOMINAL
AND 8 IN. NOMINAL WAFFLE-GRID WALLS, RESPECTIVELY. SEE NOTE a TO TABLES R6118(6)
AND R611. 8(10).
==»:
-_'.'■.-.■■•■:■;■•••■•* _
-'K^OCis--
W!w -
For SI: l inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R61 1.8(3)
LINTELS FOR WAFFLE-GRID WALLS
304
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
VA\N.
MINIMUM
2 1 / 2 IN.
MAXIMUM
HORIZONTAL TOP
LINTEL REINFORCEMENT
AS REQUIRED*
HORIZONTAL CONCRETE
CORE (HIDDEN)
VERTICAL CONCRETE CORE
FORM - STAY-IN-PLACE
OR REMOVABLE
HORIZONTAL BOTTOM LINTEL
REINFORCEMENT AS REQUIRED*
(a) SINGLE FORM HEIGHT SECTION CUT THROUGH
VERTICAL CORE OF A SCREEN-GRID LINTEL
HORIZONTAL CONCRETE
CORE (HIDDEN)
HORIZONTAL TOP
LINTEL REINFORCEMENT
AS REQUIRED*
MINIMUM NO. 3
STIRRUP AS REQUIRED
"C" STIRRUPS ARE
ACCEPTABLE
FORM - STAY-IN-PLACE
OR REMOVABLE
VERTICAL CONCRETE CORE
HORIZONTAL BOTTOM LINTEL
REINFORCEMENT AS REQUIRED*
(b) DOUBLE FORM HEIGHT SECTION CUT THROUGH VERTICAL
CORE OF A SCREEN-GRID LINTEL
•FOR BUNDLED BARS, SEE SECTION R611. 8.2.2.
NOTE: CROSS-HATCHING REPRESENTS THE AREA IN WHICH FORM MATERIAL SHALL BE REMOVED
IF NECESSARY, TO CREATE FLANGES CONTINUOUS THE LENGTH OF THE LINTEL FLANGES
SHALL HAVE A MINIMUM THICKNESS OF 2.5 IN. AND A MINIMUM WIDTH OF 5 IN SEE NOTE
a TO TABLES R611. 8(8) AND R611. 8(10).
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R61 1.8(4)
LINTELS FOR SCREEN-GRID WALLS
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
305
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R611.8.2.2 Bundled bars in lintels. It is permitted to
bundle two bars in contact with each other in lintels if
all of the following are observed:
1 . Bars no larger than No. 6 are bundled.
2. Where the wall thickness is not sufficient to pro-
vide not less than 3 inches (76 mm) of clear space
beside bars (total on both sides) oriented horizon-
tally in a bundle, the bundled bars shall be ori-
ented in a vertical plane.
3. Where vertically oriented bundled bars terminate
with standard hooks to develop the bars in ten-
4.
5.
sion beyond the support (see Section R61 1.5.4.4),
the hook extensions shall be staggered to provide
a minimum of 1 inch (25 mm) clear spacing
between the extensions.
Bundled bars shall not be lap spliced within the
lintel span and the length on each end of the lintel
that is required to develop the bars in tension.
Bundled bars shall be enclosed within stirrups
throughout the length of the lintel. Stirrups and
the installation thereof shall comply with Section
R611.8.2.1.
TABLE R61 1.8(1)
LINTEL DESIGN LOADING CONDITIONS 3 ' bd
DESCRIPTION OF LOADS AND OPENINGS ABOVE INFLUENCING DESIGN OF LINTEL
DESIGN LOAD
CONDITION
Opening in wall of top story of two-story building, or first story of one-story building
Wall supporting loads from roof, including
attic floor, if applicable, and
Top of lintel equal to or less than W/2 below top of wall
2
Top of lintel greater than W/2 below top of wall
NLB
Wall not supporting loads from roof or attic floor
NLB
Opening in wall of first story of two-story building where wall immediately above is of concrete construction,
or opening in basement wall of one-story building where wall immediately above is of concrete construction
LB ledger board mounted to side of wall
with bottom of ledger less than or equal to
W/2 above top of lintel, and
Top of lintel greater than W/2 below bottom of opening in story above
I
Top of lintel less than or equal to W/2
below bottom of opening in story above,
and
Opening is entirely within the footprint
of the opening in the story above
1
Opening is partially within the footprint of
the opening in the story above
4
LB ledger board mounted to side of wall with bottom of ledger more than W/2 above top of lintel
NLB
NLB ledger board mounted to side of wall
with bottom of ledger less than or equal to
W/2 above top of lintel, or no ledger board,
and
Top of lintel greater than W/2 below bottom of opening in story above
NLB
Top of lintel less than or equal to W/2
below bottom of opening in story above,
and
Opening is entirely within the footprint
of the opening in the story above
NLB
Opening is partially within the footprint of
the opening in the story above
1
Opening in basement wall of two-story building
where walls of two stories above are of concrete construction
LB ledger board mounted to side of wall
with bottom of ledger less than or equal to
W/2 above top of lintel, and
Top of lintel greater than W/2 below bottom of opening in story above
1
Top of lintel less than or equal to W/2
below bottom of opening in story above,
and
Opening is entirely within the footprint
of the opening in the story above
1
Opening is partially within the footprint of
the opening in the story above
5
LB ledger board mounted to side of wall with bottom of ledger more than W/2 above top of lintel
NLB
NLB ledger board mounted to side of wall
with bottom of ledger less than or equal to
W/2 above top of lintel, or no ledger board,
and
Top of lintel greater than W/2 below bottom of opening in story above
NLB
Top of lintel less than or equal to W/2
below bottom of opening in story above,
and
Opening is entirely within the footprint
of the opening in the story above
NLB
Opening is partially within the footprint of
the opening in the story above
1
Opening in wall of first story of two-story building where wall immediately above is of light-framed construction,
or opening in basement wall of one-story building, where wall immediately above is of light-framed construction
Wall supporting loads from roof, second
floor and top-story wall of light-framed
construction, and
Top of lintel equal to or less than W/2 below top of wall
3
Top of lintel greater than W/2 below top of wall
NLB
Wall not supporting loads from roof or second floor
NLB
a. LB means load bearing, NLB means nonload bearing, and W means width of opening.
b. Footprint is the area of the wall below an opening in the story above, bounded by the bottom of the opening and vertical lines extending downward from the
edges of the opening.
c. For design loading condition "NLB" see Tables R61 1.8(9) and R61 1.8(10). For all other design loading conditions see Tables R61 1.8(2) through R61 1 .8(8).
d. A NLB ledger board is a ledger attached to a wall that is parallel to the span of the floor, roof or ceiling framing that supports the edge of the floor, ceiling or
roof.
306
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.8(2)
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE CLEAR SPANS FOR 4-INCH-NOMINAL THICK FLAT LINTELS IN LOAD-BEARING WALLS 3 ' b ' "• * "■'• '
ROOF CLEAR SPAN 40 FEET AND FLOOR CLEAR SPAN 32 FEET
LINTEL DEPTH,
(inches)
NUMBER OF BARS
AND BAR SIZE IN
TOP AND BOTTOM
OF LINTEL
STEEL YIELD
STRENGTH", f f
(psi)
DESIGN LOADING CONDITION DETERMINED FROM TABLE R611.8(1)
1
2
3
4
5
Maximum ground snow load (psf)
—
30
70
30
70
30
70
30
70
Masimum clear span of lintel (feet - inches)
8
Span without stirrups lj
3-2
3-4
2-4
2-6
2-2
2-1
2-0
2-0
2-0
l-#4
40,000
5-2
5-5
4-1
4-3
3-10
3-7
3-4
2-9
2-9
60,000
6-2
6-5
4-11
5-1
4-6
4-2
3-8
2-11
2-10
l-#5
40,000
6-3
6-7
5-0
5-2
4-6
4-2
3-8
2-11
2-10
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
Center distance A kJ
1-1
1-2
0-8
0-9
0-7
0-6
0-5
0-4
0-4
12
Span without stirrups'' j
3-4
3-7
2-9
2-1 1
2-8
2-6
2-5
2-2
2-2
l-#4
40,000
6-7
7-0
5-4
5-7
5-0
4-9
4-4
3-8
3-7
60,000
7-11
8-6
6-6
6-9
6-0
5-9
5-3
4-5
4-4
1-#5
40,000
8-1
8-8
6-7
6-10
6-2
5-10
5-4
4-6
4-5
60,000
9-8
10-4
7-11
8-2
7-4
6-11
6-2
4-10
4-8
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
9-1
9-8
7-4
7-8
6-10
6-6
6-0
4-10
4-8
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
Center distance A M
1-8
1-11
1-1
1-3
1-0
0-11
0-9
0-6
0-6
16
Span without stirrups 1 ' j
4-7
5-0
3-11
4-0
3-8
3-7
3-4
3-1
3-0
l-#4
40,000
6-8
7-3
5-6
5-9
5-2
4-11
4-6
3-10
3-8
60,000
9-3
10-1
7-9
8-0
7-2
6-10
6-3
5-4
5-2
l-#4
40,000
9-6
10-4
7-10
8-2
7-4
6-11
6-5
5-5
5-3
60,000
11-5
12-5
9-6
9-10
8-10
8-4
7-9
6-6
6-4
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
10-7
11-7
8-10
9-2
8-3
7-9
7-2
6-1
5-11
60,000
12-9
13-10
10-7
11-0
9-10
9-4
8-7
6-9
6-6
2-#5
40,000
13-0
14-1
10-9
11-2
9-11
9-2
8-2
6-6
6-3
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
Center distance 11 '
2-3
2-8
1-7
1-8
1-4
1-3
1-0
0-9
0-8
20
Span without stirrups 1 '
5-9
6-5
5-0
5-2
4-9
4-7
4-4
3-11
3-11
l-#4
40,000
7-5
8-2
6-3
6-6
5-10
5-7
5-1
4-4
4-2
60,000
9-0
10-0
7-8
7-11
7-1
6-9
6-3
5-3
5-1
l-#5
40,000
9-2
10-2
7-9
8-1
7-3
6-11
6-4
5-4
5-2
60,000
12-9
14-2
10-10
11-3
10-1
9-7
8-10
7-5
7-3
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
11-10
13-2
10-1
10-5
9-4
8-11
8-2
6-11
6-9
60,000
14-4
15-10
12-1
12-7
11-3
10-9
9-11
8-4
8-1
2-#5
40,000
14-7
16-2
12-4
12-9
11-4
10-6
9-5
7-7
7-3
60,000
17-5
19-2
14-9
15-3
13-5
12-4
11-0
8-8
8-4
2-#6
40,000
16-4
18-11
12-7
13-3
11-4
10-6
9-5
7-7
7-3
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
Center distance A k ' '
2-9
3-5
2-0
2-2
1-9
1-7
1-4
0-11
0-11
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
307
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.8(2)— continued
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE CLEAR SPANS FOR 4-lNCH-NOMINAL THICK FLAT LINTELS IN LOAD-BEARING WALLS 3 ' "• '■ «• e - '■ m
ROOF CLEAR SPAN 40 FEET AND FLOOR CLEAR SPAN 32 FEET
LINTEL DEPTH, D s
(inches)
NUMBER OF BARS
AND BAR SIZE IN
TOP AND BOTTOM
OF LINTEL
DESIGN LOADING CONDITION DETERMINED FROM TABLE R61 1.8(1)
STEEL YIELD STRENGTH",
', (PSi)
1
2
3
4
5
Maximum ground snow load (psf)
—
30
70
30
70
30
70
30
70
Maximum clear span of lintel (feet - inches)
24
Span without stirrups' J
6-11
7-9
6-1
6-3
5-9
5-7
5-3
4-9
4-8
l-#4
40,000
8-0
9-0
6-11
7-2
6-5
6-2
5-8
4-9
4-8
60,000
9-9
11-0
8-5
8-9
7-10
7-6
6-11
5-10
5-8
l-#5
40,000
10-0
11-3
8-7
8-11
8-0
7-7
7-0
5-11
5-9
60,000
13-11
15-8
12-0
12-5
11-2
10-7
9-10
8-3
8-0
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
12-11
14-6
11-2
11-6
10-5
9-10
9-1
7-8
7-5
60,000
15-7
17-7
13-6
13-11
12-7
11-11
11-0
9-3
9-0
2-#5
40,000
15-11
17-11
13-7
14-3
12-8
11-9
10-8
8-7
8-4
60,000
19-1
21-6
16-5
17-1
15-1
14-0
12-6
9-11
9-7
2-#6
40,000
17-7
21-1
14-1
14-10
12-8
11-9
10-8
8-7
8-4
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
Center distance A kJ
3-3
4-1
2-5
2-7
2-1
1-11
1-7
1-2
1-1
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, Grade 40 = 280 MPa, Grade 60 = 420 MPa.
a. See Table R611.3 for tolerances permitted from nominal thickness.
b. Table values are based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi. See Note j.
c. Table values are based on uniform loading. See Section R6 1 1 .8.2 for Hntels supporting concentrated loads.
d. Deflection criterion is L/240, where L is the clear span of the lintel in inches, or 7,-inch, whichever is less.
e. Linear interpolation is permitted between ground snow loads and between lintel depths.
f. DR indicates design required.
g. Lintel depth, D, is permitted to include the available height of wall located directly above the lintel, provided that the increased lintel depth spans the entire
length of the lintel.
h. Stirrups shall be fabricated from reinforcing bars with the same yield strength as that used for the main longitudinal reinforcement.
i. Allowable clear span without stirrups applicable to all lintels of the same depth, D. Top and bottom reinforcement for lintels without stirrups shall not be less
than the least amount of reinforcement required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups. All other spans require stirrups spaced at
not more than d/2.
j. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, clear spans for lintels without stirrups shall be permitted to be multiplied
by 1.05. If the increased span exceeds the allowable clear span for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups, the top and bottom
reinforcement shall be equal to or greater than that required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition that has an allowable clear span that is equal
to or greater than that of the lintel without stirrups that has been increased,
k. Center distance, A, is the center portion of the clear span where stirrups are not required. This is applicable to all longitudinal bar sizes and steel yield
strengths.
I. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, center distance, A, shall be permitted to be multiplied by 1.10.
m. The maximum clear opening width between two solid wall segments shall be 18 feet. See Section R61 1.7.2.1. Lintel clear spans in the table greater than 18
feet are shown for interpolation and information only.
308
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
MAXIMUM
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.8(3)
ALLOWABLE CLEAR SPANS FOR 6-INCH-NOMINAL THICK FLAT LINTELS IN LOAD-BEARING WALLS abcd *' , ' i
ROOF CLEAR SPAN 40 FEET AND FLOOR CLEAR SPAN 32 FEET
LINTEL DEPTH,
D'
(inches)
NUMBER OF
BARS AND BAR
SIZE IN TOP AND
BOTTOM OF
LINTEL
STEEL YIELD
STRENGTH", f y
(psi)
DESIGN LOADING CONDITION DETERMINED FROM TABLE R611.8(1)
1
2
3
4
5
Maximum ground snow load (psf)
—
30
70
30
70
30
70
30
70
Maximum clear span of lintel (feet - inches)
8
Span without stirrups 1 '- 1
4-2
4-8
3-1
3-3
2-10
2-6
2-3
2-0
2-0
l-#4
40,000
5-1
5-5
4-2
4-3
3-10
3-6
3-3
2-8
2-7
60,000
6-2
6-7
5-0
5-2
4-8
4-2
3-11
3-3
3-2
l-#5
40,000
6-3
6-8
5-1
5-3
4-9
4-3
4-0
3-3
3-2
60,000
7-6
8-0
6-1
6-4
5-8
5-1
4-9
3-8
3-6
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
7-0
7-6
5-8
5-11
5-3
4-9
4-5
3-8
3-6
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
Center distance A K '
1-7
1-10
1-1
1-2
0-11
0-9
0-8
0-5
0-5
12
Span without stirrups 1, j
4-2
4-8
3-5
3-6
3-2
2-11
2-9
2-5
2-4
l-#4
40,000
5-7
6-1
4-8
4-10
4-4
3-11
3-8
3-0
2-11
60,000
7-9
8-6
6-6
6-9
6-1
5-6
5-1
4-3
4-1
l-#5
40,000
7-11
8-8
6-8
6-11
6-2
5-7
5-2
4-4
4-2
60,000
9-7
10-6
8-0
8-4
7-6
6-9
6-3
5-2
5-1
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
8-11
9-9
7-6
7-9
6-11
6-3
5-10
4-10
4-8
60,000
10-8
11-9
8-12
9-4
8-4
7-6
7-0
5-10
5-8
2-#5
40,000
10-11
12-0
9-2
9-6
8-6
7-8
7-2
5-6
5-3
60,000
12-11
14-3
10-10
11-3
10-1
9-0
8-1
6-1
5-10
2-#6
40,000
12-9
14-0
10-8
11-1
9-7
8-1
7-3
5-6
5-3
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
Center distance A k ' '
2-6
3-0
1-9
1-10
1-6
1-3
1-1
0-9
0-8
16
Span without stirrups''
5-7
6-5
4-9
4-11
4-5
4-0
3-10
3-4
3-4
l-#4
40,000
6-5
7-2
5-6
5-9
5-2
4-8
4-4
3-7
3-6
60,000
7-10
8-9
6-9
7-0
6-3
5-8
5-3
4-4
4-3
l-#5
40,000
7-11
8-11
6-10
7-1
6-5
5-9
5-4
4-5
4-4
60,000
11-1
12-6
9-7
9-11
8-11
8-0
7-6
6-2
6-0
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
10-3
11-7
8-10
9-2
8-3
7-6
6-11
5-9
5-7
60,000
12-5
14-0
10-9
11-1
10-0
9-0
8-5
7-0
6-9
2-#5
40,000
12-8
14-3
10-11
11-4
10-2
9-2
8-7
6-9
6-6
60,000
15-2
17-1
13-1
13-7
12-3
11-0
10-3
7-11
7-7
2-#6
40,000
14-11
16-9
12-8
13-4
11-4
9-8
8-8
6-9
6-6
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
Center distance A K '
3-3
4-1
2-5
2-7
2-1
1-9
1-6
1-0
1-0
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESiDENTIAL CODE®
309
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.8(3)— continued
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE CLEAR SPANS FOR 6-INCH-NOMINAL THICK FLAT LINTELS IN LOAD-BEARING WALLS i,bcde,m
ROOF CLEAR SPAN 40 FEET AND FLOOR CLEAR SPAN 32 FEET
LINTEL DEPTH,
(inches)
NUMBER OF
BARS AND BAR
SIZE IN TOP AND
BOTTOM OF
LINTEL
STEEL YIELD
STRENGTH", f y
(psi)
DESIGN LOADING CONDITION DETERMINED FROM TABLE R611.8(1)
1
2
3
4
5
Maximum ground snow load (psf)
—
30
70
30 1 70
30
70
30
70
Maximum clear span of lintel (feet - inches)
20
Span without stirrups' ,J
6-11
8-2
6-1
6-3
5-8
5-2
4-11
4-4
4-3
l-#5
40,000
8-9
10-1
7-9
8-0
7-3
6-6
6-1
5-1
4-11
60,000
10-8
12-3
9-5
9-9
8-10
8-0
7-5
6-2
6-0
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
9-11
11-4
8-9
9-1
8-2
7-4
6-10
5-8
5-7
60,000
13-9
15-10
12-2
12-8
11-5
10-3
9-7
7-11
7-9
2-#5
40,000
14-0
16-2
12-5
12-11
11-7
10-6
9-9
7-11
7-8
60,000
16-11
19-6
15-0
15-6
14-0
12-7
11-9
9-1
8-9
2-#6
40,000
16-7
19-1
14-7
15-3
13-1
11-3
10-2
7-11
7-8
60,000
19-11
22-10
17-4
18-3
15-6
13-2
11-10
9-1
8-9
Center distance A KI
3-11
5-2
3-1
3-3
2-8
2-2
1-11
1-4
1-3
24
Span without stirrups'' '
8-2
9-10
7-4
7-8
6-11
6-4
5-11
5-3
5-2
l-#5
40,000
9-5
11-1
8-7
8-10
8-0
7-3
6-9
5-7
5-5
60,000
11-6
13-6
10-5
10-9
9-9
8-9
8-2
6-10
6-8
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
10-8
12-6
9-8
10-0
9-0
8-2
7-7
6-4
6-2
60,000
12-11
15-2
11-9
12-2
11-0
9-11
9-3
7-8
7-6
2-#5
40,000
15-2
17-9
13-9
14-3
12-10
11-7
10-10
9-0
8-9
60,000
18-4
21-6
16-7
17-3
15-6
14-0
13-1
10-4
10-0
2-#6
40,000
18-0
21-1
16-4
16-11
14-10
12-9
11-8
9-2
8-11
60,000
2.1-7
25-4
19-2
20-4
17-2
14-9
13-4
10-4
10-0
Center distance A K '
4-6
6-2
3-8
4-0
3-3
2-8
2-3
1-7
1-6
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pounds per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, Grade 40 = 280 MPa, Grade 60 = 420 MPa.
a. See Table R61 1 .3 for tolerances permitted from nominal thickness.
b. Table values are based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi. See Note j.
c. Table values are based on uniform loading. See Section R61 1.8.2 for lintels supporting concentrated loads.
d. Deflection criterion is L/240, where L is the clear span of the lintel in inches, or 7,-inch, whichever is less.
e. Linear interpolation is permitted between ground snow loads and between lintel depths.
f. DR indicates design required.
g. Lintel depth, D, is permitted to include the available height of wall located directly above the lintel, provided that the increased lintel depth spans the entire
length of the lintel.
h. Stirrups shall be fabricated from reinforcing bars with the same yield strength as that used for the main longitudinal reinforcement.
i. Allowable clear span without stirrups applicable to all lintels of the same depth, D. Top and bottom reinforcement for lintels without stirrups shall not be less
than the least amount of reinforcement required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups. All other spans require stirrups spaced at
not more than d/2.
j. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, clear spans for lintels without stirrups shall be permitted to be
multiplied by 1.05. If the increased span exceeds the allowable clear span for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups, the top and
bottom reinforcement shall be equal to or greater than that required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition that has an allowable clear span that
is equal to or greater than that of the lintel without stirrups that has been increased.
k. Center distance, A, is the center portion of the clear span where stirrups are not required. This is applicable to all longitudinal bar sizes and steel yield
strengths.
1. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, center distance, A, shall be permitted to be multiplied by 1.1 0.
m. The maximum clear opening width between two solid wall segments shall be 18 feet. See Section R61 1.7.2.1 . Lintel clear spans in the table greater than 18
feet are shown for interpolation and information only.
310
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.8(4)
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE CLEAR SPANS FOR 8-lNCH-NOMINAL THICK FLAT LINTELS IN LOAD-BEARING WALLS 3 bcd ''
ROOF CLEAR SPAN 40 FEET AND FLOOR CLEAR SPAN 32 FEET
LINTEL DEPTH,
(inches)
NUMBER OF
BARS AND BAR
SIZE IN TOP AND
BOTTOM OF
LINTEL
STEEL YIELD
STRENGTH", f y
(psi)
DESIGN LOADING CONDITION DETERMINED FROM TABLE R611.8(1)
1
2
3
4
5
Maximum ground snow load (psf)
—
30
70
30
70
30
70
30
70
Maximum clear span of lintel (feet - inches)
8
Span without stirrups'-- 1
4-4
4-9
3-7
3-9
3-4
2-10
2-7
2-1
2-0
l-#4
40,000
4-4
4-9
3-7
3-9
3-4
2-11
2-9
2-3
2-2
60,000
6-1
6-7
5-0
5-3
4-8
4-0
3-9
3-1
3-0
l-#5
40,000
6-2
6-9
5-2
5-4
4-9
4-1
3-10
3-2
3-1
60,000
7-5
8-1
6-2
6-5
5-9
4-11
4-7
3-9
3-8
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
6-11
7-6
5-9
6-0
5-4
4-7
4-4
3-6
3-5
60,000
8-3
9-0
6-11
7-2
6-5
5-6
5-2
4-2
4-1
2-#5
40,000
8-5
9-2
7-0
7-3
6-6
5-7
5-3
4-2
4-0
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
Center distance A k - '
2-1
2-6
1-5
1-6
1-3
0-11
0-10
0-6
0-6
12
Span without stirrups'- j
4-10
5-8
4-0
4-2
3-9
3-2
3-0
2-7
2-6
l-#4
40,000
5-5
6-1
4-8
4-10
4-4
3-9
3-6
2-10
2-10
60,000
6-7
7-5
5-8
5-11
5-4
4-7
4-3
3-6
3-5
l-#5
40,000
6-9
7-7
5-9
6-0
5-5
4-8
4-4
3-7
3-6
60,000
9-4
10-6
8-1
8-4
7-6
6-6
6-1
5-0
4-10
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
8-8
9-9
7-6
7-9
7-0
6-0
5-8
4-7
4-6
60,000
10-6
11-9
9-1
9-5
8-5
7-3
6-10
5-7
5-5
2-#5
40,000
10-8
12-0
9-3
9-7
8-7
7-5
6-11
5-6
5-4
60,000
12-10
14-5
11-1
11-6
10-4
8-11
8-4
6-7
6-4
2-#6
40,000
12-7
14-2
10-10
11-3
10-2
8-3
7-6
5-6
5-4
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
Center distance A k - '
3-2
4-0
2-4
2-6
2-0
1-6
1-4
0-11
0-10
16
Span without stirrups 1 ' '
6-5
"
5 1
5-ln
5.?
4-5
4-2(1-7
\-h
l-#4
40,000
6-2
7-1
5-6
5-8
5-1
4-5
4-2
3-5
3-4
60,000
7-6
8-8
6-8
6-11
6-3
5-5
5-1
4-2
4-0
l-#5
40,000
7-8
8-10
6-10
7-1
6-4
5-6
5-2
4-3
4-1
60,000
9-4
10-9
8-4
8-7
7-9
6-8
6-3
5-2
5-0
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
8-8
10-0
7-8
8-0
7-2
6-2
5-10
4-9
4-8
60,000
12-0
13-11
10-9
11-2
10-0
8-8
8-1
6-8
6-6
2-#5
40,000
12-3
14-2
11-0
11-4
10-3
8-10
8-3
6-9
6-7
60,000
14-10
17-2
13-3
13-8
12-4
10-8
10-0
7-11
7-8
2-#6
40,000
14-6
16-10
13-0
13-5
12-1
10-1
9-2
6-11
6-8
60,000
17-5
20-2
15-7
16-1
14-6
11-10
10-8
7-11
7-8
Center distance 1, '
4-1
5-5
3-3
3-6
2-10
2-1
1-10
1-3
1-2
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
311
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.8(4)— continued
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE CLEAR SPANS FOR 8-INCH-NOMINAL THICK FLAT LINTELS IN LOAD-BEARING WALLS a ' b ' c ' "'"''•'
ROOF CLEAR SPAN 40 FEET AND FLOOR CLEAR SPAN 32 FEET
LINTEL DEPTH,
(inches)
NUMBER OF
BARS AND BAR
SIZE IN TOP
AND BOTTOM
OF LINTEL
STEEL YIELD
STRENGTH", f y
(psi)
DESIGN LOADING CONDITION DETERMINED FROM TABLE R611.8(1)
1
2
3
4
5
Maximum ground snow load (psf)
—
30
70
30
70
30
70
30
70
Maximum clear span of lintel (feet - inches)
20
Span without stirrups'' '
7-10
9-10
7-1
7-5
6-7
5-8
5-4
4-7
4-6
l-#5
40,000
8-4
9-11
7-8
8-0
7-2
6-3
5-10
4-9
4-8
60,000
10-2
12-1
9-5
9-9
8-9
7-7
7-1
5-10
5-8
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
9-5
11-3
8-8
9-0
8-1
7-0
6-7
5-5
5-3
60,000
11-6
13-8
10-7
11-0
9-11
8-7
8-0
6-7
6-5
2-#5
40,000
11-9
13-11
10-10
11-2
10-1
8-9
8-2
6-8
6-7
60,000
16-4
19-5
15-0
15-7
14-0
12-2
11-4
9-3
9-0
2-#6
40,000
16-0
19-0
14-9
15-3
13-9
11-10
10-10
8-3
8-0
60,000
19-3
22-11
17-9
18-5
16-7
13-7
12-4
9-3
9-0
Center distance A k - '
4-10
6-10
4-1
4-5
3-7
8
2-8
2-4
1-7
1-6
24
Span without stirrups' ,j
y-2
! 1 ■<)
8 7
S 1!
6-11
6-6
5-7
?-h
l-#5
40,000
8-11
10-10
8-6
8-9
7-11
6-10
6-5
5-3
5-2
60,000
10-11
13-3
10-4
10-8
9-8
8-4
7-10
6-5
6-3
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
10-1
12-3
9-7
9-11
8-11
7-9
7-3
6-0
5-10
60,000
12-3
15-0
11-8
12-1
10-11
9-5
8-10
7-3
7-1
2-#5
40,000
12-6
15-3
11-11
12-4
11-1
9-7
9-0
7-5
7-3
60,000
17-6
21-3
16-7
17-2
15-6
13-5
12-7
1 0-4
10-1
2-#6
40,000
17-2
20-11
16-3
16-10
15-3
13-2
12-4
9-7
9-4
60,000
20-9
25-3
19-8
20-4
18-5
15-4
14-0
10-7
10-3
Center distance^ 11,1
5-6
8-1
4-11
5-3
4-4
3-3
2-10
1-11
1-10
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, Grade 40 = 280 MPa; Grade 60 = 420 MPa.
Note: Top and bottom reinforcement for lintels without stirrups shown in shaded cells shall be equal to or greater than that required for lintel of the same depth
and loading condition that has an allowable clear span that is equal to or greater than that of the lintel without stirrups.
a. See Table R61 1.3 for tolerances permitted from nominal thickness.
b. Table values are based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi. See Note j.
c. Table values are based on uniform loading. See Section R61 1 .8.2 for lintels supporting concentrated loads.
d. Deflection criterion is L/240, where L is the clear span of the lintel in inches, or '/,-inch, whichever is less.
e. Linear interpolation is permitted between ground snow loads and between lintel depths.
f. DR indicates design required.
g. Lintel depth, D, is permitted to include the available height of wall located directly above the lintel, provided that the increased lintel depth spans the entire
length of the lintel.
h. Stirrups shall be fabricated from reinforcing bars with the same yield strength as that used for the main longitudinal reinforcement.
i. Allowable clear span without stirrups applicable to all lintels of the same depth, D. Top and bottom reinforcement for lintels without stirrups shall not be less
than the least amount of reinforcement required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups. All other spans require stirrups spaced at
not more than d/2.
j. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, clear spans for lintels without stirrups shall be permitted to be
multiplied by 1.05. If the increased span exceeds the allowable clear span for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups, the top and
bottom reinforcement shall be equal to or greater than that required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition that has an allowable clear span that
is equal to or greater than that of the lintel without stirrups that has been increased,
k. Center distance, A, is the center portion of the clear span where stirrups are not required. This is applicable to all longitudinal bar sixes and steel yield
strengths.
1. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, center distance, A, shall be permitted to be multiplied by 1 .10.
m. The maximum clear opening width between two solid wall segments shall be 18 feet. See Section R61 1.7.2.1 . Lintel clear spans in the table greater than 1 8
feet are shown for interpolation and information only.
312
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.8(5)
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE CLEAR SPANS FOR 10-INCH-NOMINAL THICK FLAT LINTELS IN LOAD-BEARING WALLS 3 b '
ROOF CLEAR SPAN 40 FEET AND FLOOR CLEAR SPAN 32 FEET
LINTEL DEPTH,
(inches)
NUMBER OF
BARS AND BAR
SIZE IN TOP AND
BOTTOM OF
LINTEL
STEEL YIELD
STRENGTH", C,
DESIGN LOADING CONDITION DETERMINED FROM TABLE R611.8(1)
1
2
3
4
5
Maximum ground snow load (psf)
(psi)
—
30
70
30
70
30 ! 70
30
70
Maximum clear span of lintel (feet - inches)
Span without stirrups' ,J
6-0
7 2
1-7
■MO
4-1
i !
' 11
: :
2 2
40,000
4-3
4-9
3-7
3-9
3-4
2-9
2-7
2-1
2-1
l-#4
60,000
5-11
6-7
5-0
5-3
4-8
3-10
3-8
2-11
2-11
8
l-#5
40,000
6-1
6-9
5-2
5-4
4-9
3-11
3-9
3-0
2-11
60,000
7-4
8-1
6-3
6-5
5-9
4-9
4-6
3-7
3-7
2-#4
1.-#6
40,000
6-10
7-6
5-9
6-0
5-5
4-5
4-2
3-4
3-4
60,000
8-2
9-1
6-11
7-2
6-6
5-4
5-0
4-1
4-0
2-#5
40,000
8-4
9-3
7-1
7-4
6-7
5-5
5-1
4-1
4-0
60,000
9-11
11-0
8-5
8-9
7-10
6-6
6-1
4-8
4-6
2-#6
40,000
9-9
10-10
8-3
8-7
7-9
6-4
5-10
4-1
4-0
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
Center distance A k ' '
2-6
3-1
1-10
1-11
1-7
1-1
0-11
0-7
0-7
12
Span without stirrups ,J
., 7
4-7
4 10
4-3
3-5
3-3
2-8
2-8
l-#4
40,000
5-3
6-0
4-8
4-10
4-4
3-7
3-4
2-9
2-8
60,000
6-5
7-4
5-8
5-10
5-3
4-4
4-1
3-4
3-3
l-#5
40,000
6-6
7-6
5-9
6-0
5-5
4-5
4-2
3-5
3-4
60,000
7-11
9-1
7-0
7-3
6-7
5-5
5-1
4-2
4-0
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
7-4
8-5
6-6
6-9
6-1
5-0
4-9
3-10
3-9
60,000
10-3
11-9
9-1
9-5
8-6
7-0
6-7
5-4
5-3
2-#5
40,000
10-5
12-0
9-3
9-7
8-8
7-2
6-9
5-5
5-4
60,000
12-7
14-5
11-2
11-6
10-5
8-7
8-1
6-6
6-4
2-#6
40,000
12-4
14-2
10-11
11-4
10-2
8-5
7-8
5-7
5-5
60,000
14-9
17-0
13-1
13-6
12-2
10-0
9-1
6-6
6-4
Center distance /i k ' '
3-9
4-11
2-11
3-2
2-7
1-9
1-7
1-0
1-0
16
Span without stirrups'- 1
7-1
9
y 6 4
h 8
5 ii)
4-*;
4-6 .
: -v
3 8 j
l-#4
40,000
5-11
7-0
5-5
5-8
5-1
4-3
4-0
3-3
3-2
60,000
7-3
8-7
6-8
6-11
6-3
5-2
4-10
3-11
3-10
l-#5
40,000
7-4
8-9
6-9
7-0
6-4
5-3
4-11
4-0
3-11
60,000
9-0
10-8
8-3
8-7
7-9
6-5
6-0
4-11
4-9
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
8-4
9-11
7-8
7-11
7-2
5-11
5-7
4-6
4-5
60,000
10-2
12-0
9-4
9-8
8-9
7-3
6-10
5-6
5-5
2-#5
40,000
10-4
12-3
9-6
9-10
8-11
7-4
6-11
5-8
5-6
60,000
14-4
17-1
13-3
13-8
12-4
10-3
9-8
7-10
7-8
2-#6
40,000
14-1
16-9
13-0
13-5
12-2
10-1
9-6
7-0
6-10
60,000
17-0
20-2
15-8
16-2
14-7
12-0
10-11
8-0
7-9
Center distance 11 ' '
4-9
6-8
4-0
4-4
3-6
2-5
2-2
1-5
1-4
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
313
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.8(5)— continued
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE CLEAR SPANS FOR 10-INCH-NQMINAL THICK FLAT LINTELS IN LOAD-BEARING WALLS ' bcd -'
ROOF CLEAR SPAN 40 FEET AND FLOOR CLEAR SPAN 32 FEET
LINTEL DEPTH,
D»
(inches)
NUMBER OF
BARS AND BAR
SIZE IN TOP
AND BOTTOM
OF LINTEL
STEEL YIELD
STRENGTH", f y
(psi)
DESIGN LOADING CONDITION DETERMINED FROM TABLE R611.8(1)
1
2
3
4 5
Maximum ground snow load (psf)
—
30
70
30
70
30
70
30
70
Maximum clear span of lintel (feet - inches)
20
Span without stirrups'- J
8-7
,1 i
V. 1
8-5
7-5 ! 6-1
5-9
4 10
4 9.
l-#4
40,000
6-5
7-10
f. :
<>-,
5-9
4-9
4-6
3-8
3-7
60,000
7-10
9-7
7-6
7-9
7-0
5-10
5-6
4-5
4-4
l-#5
40,000
8-0
9-9
7-8
7-11
7-2
5-11
5-7
4-6
4-5
60,000
9-9
11-11
9-4
9-8
8-9
7-3
6-10
5-6
5-5
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
9-0
11-1
8-8
8-11
8-1
6-9
6-4
5-2
5-0
60,000
11-0
13-6
10-6
10-11
9-10
8-2
7-9
6-3
6-2
2-#5
40,000
11-3
13-9
10-9
11-1
10-0
8-4
7-10
6-5
6-3
60,000
15-8
19-2
15-0
15-6
14-0
11-8
11-0
8-11
8-9
2-#6
40,000
15-5
18-10
14-8
15-2
13-9
11-5
10-9
8-6
8-3
60,000
18-7
22-9
17-9
18-5
16-7
13-10
12-9
9-5
9-2
Center distance A k - '
5-7
8-4
5-1
5-5
4-5
3-1
2-9
1-10
1-9
24
Span without stirrups 1 ' j
9-i 1
13-7
<> >)
lt)2
; 9-0
7-5
7-0
5-10
^ "
l-#5
40,000
8-6
10-8
8-5
8-8
7-10
6-6
6-2
5-0
4-11
60,000
10-5
13-0
10-3
10-7
9-7
8-0
7-6
6-1
6-0
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
9-7
12-1
9-6
9-9
8-10
7-5
7-0
5-8
5-6
60,000
11-9
14-9
11-7
11-11
10-10
9-0
8-6
6-11
6-9
2-#5
40,000
12-0
15-0
11-9
12-2
11-0
9-2
8-8
7-1
6-11
60,000
14-7
18-3
14-4
14-10
13-5
11-2
10-7
8-7
8-5
2-#6
40,000
14-3
17-11
14-1
14-7
13-2
11-0
10-4
8-5
8-3
60,000
19-11
25-0
19-7
20-3
18-4
15-3
14-5
10-10
10-7
Center distance A kA
6-3
9-11
6-1
6-6
5-4
3-9
3-4
2-2
2-1
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, Grade 40 = 280 MPa, Grade 60 = 420 MPa.
Note: Top and bottom reinforcement for lintels without stirrups shown in shaded cells shall be equal to or greater than that required for lintel of the same depth
and loading condition that has an allowable clear span that is equal to or greater than that of the lintel without stirrups.
a. See Table R61 1 .3 for tolerances permitted from nominal thickness.
b. Table values are based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi. See Note j.
c. Table values are based on uniform loading. See Section R61 1 .8.2 for lintels supporting concentrated loads.
d. Deflection criterion is L/240, where L is the clear span of the lintel in inches, or 7 2 -inch, whichever is less.
e. Linear interpolation is permitted between ground snow loads and between lintel depths.
f. DR indicates design required.
g. Lintel depth, D, is permitted to include the available height of wall located directly above the lintel, provided that the increased lintel depth spans the entire
ituHiii oi i.iitv i i ntci.,
h. Stirrups shall be fabricated from reinforcing bars with the same yield strength as that used for the main longitudinal reinforcement
.. Allowable clear span without stirrups applicable to all lintels of the same depth, D. Top and bottom reinforcement for lintels without stirrups shall not be less
than tte least amount of reinforcement required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups. All other spans require stirrups spaced at
j. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 ps, is used, clear spans for lintels without stirrups shall be permitted to be
multiplied by 1.05. If the increased span exceeds the allowable clear span for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups the top and
k°^i? TIJ \ T. T OTgre f " tha " that reqUired fOT a lintd ° f the Same depth a,ld loadin S conditIon that has an allowable clear span that
is equal to or greater than that of the lintel without stirrups that has been increased.
L Sr e e n ngth d s iStanCe ' *' " *' ° enter P ° rti ° n ^ ** ^ ^ ^^ ^"^ ** n0t requiKd - ™ S iS a PP licable t0 a11 longitudinal bar sizes and steel yield
1. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, center distance, A, shall be permitted to be multiplied by ] 1
m. The maximum dear opening width between two solid wall segments shall be 1 8 feet. See Section R6 1 1 .7.2. 1 . Lintel clear spans in the table greater than 1 8
feet are shown for interpolation and information only. b
314
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
MAXIMUM
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.8(6)
ALLOWABLE CLEAR SPANS FOR 6-INCH-THICK WAFFLE-GRID LINTELS IN LOAD-BEARING WALLS 8 ' "• •=>''• •■'■''
MAXIMUM ROOF CLEAR SPAN 40 FEET AND MAXIMUM FLOOR SPAN 32 FEET
LINTEL DEPTH,
D 9
(inches)
NUMBER OF
BARS AND BAR
SIZE IN TOP AND
BOTTOM OF
LINTEL
STEEL YIELD
STRENGTH", f,
(psi)
DESIGN LOADING CONDITION DETERMINED FROM TABLE R61 1.8(1)
1
2
3
4
5
Maximum ground snow load (psf)
—
30
70
30 | 70
30 | 70
30
70
Maximum clear span of lintel (feet - inches)
8'
Span without stirrups' 5 ''
2-7 I 2-9
2-0
2-1
2-0
2-0
2-0
2-0
2-0
l-#4
40,000
5-2
5-5
4-0
4-3
3-7
3-3
2-11
2-4
2-3
60,000
5-9
6-3
4-0
4-3
3-7
3-3
2-11
2-4
2-3
l-#5
40,000
5-9
6-3
4-0
4-3
3-7
3-3
2-11
2-4
2-3
60,000
5-9
6-3
4-0
4-3
3-7
3-3
2-11
2-4
2-3
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
5-9
6-3
4-0
4-3
3-7
3-3
2-11
2-4
2-3
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
Center distance A 1 "- "
0-9
0-10
0-6
0-6
0-5
0-5
0-4
STL
STL
12'
Span without stirrups'*' '
2-11
3-1
2-6
2-7
2-5
2-4
2-3
2-1
2-0
l-#4
40,000
5-9
6-2
4-8
4-10
4-4
4-1
3-9
3-2
3-1
60,000
8-0
8-7
6-6
6-9
6-0
5-5
4-11
3-11
3-10
l-#5
40,000
8-1
8-9
6-8
6-11
6-0
5-5
4-11
3-11
3-10
60,000
9-1
10-3
6-8
7-0
6-0
5-5
4-11
3-11
3-10
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
9-1
9-9
6-8
7-0
6-0
5-5
4-11
3-11
3-10
Center distance A" 1 ' n
1-3
1-5
0-10
0-11
0-9
0-8
0-6
STL
STL
Span without stirrups' 1 ' '
4-0
4-4
3-6
3-7
3-4
3-3
3-1
2-10
2-10
16'
l-#4
40,000
6-7
7-3
5-6
5-9
5-2
4-10
4-6
3-9
3-8
60,000
8-0
8-10
6-9
7-0
6-3
5-11
5-5
4-7
4-5
l-#5
40,000
8-2
9-0
6-11
7-2
6-5
6-0
5-7
4-8
4-6
60,000
11-5
12-6
9-3
9-9
8-4
7-7
6-10
5-6
5-4
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
10-7
11-7
8-11
9-3
8-3
7-7
6-10
5-6
5-4
60,000
12-2
14-0
9-3
9-9
8-4
7-7
6-10
5-6
5-4
2-#5
40,000
12-2
14-2
9-3
9-9
8-4
7-7
6-10
5-6
5-4
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
Center distance A'"- "
1-8
2-0
1-2
1-3
1-0
0-11
0-9
STL
STL
20'
Span without stirrups k ' '
5-0
5-6
4-6
4-7
4-3
4-1
4-0
3-8
3-8
l-#4
40,000
7-2
8-2
6-3
6-6
5-10
5-6
5-1
4-3
4-2
60,000
8-11
9-11
7-8
7-11
7-1
6-8
6-2
5-2
5-0
l-#5
40,000
9-1
10-2
7-9
8-1
7-3
6-10
6-4
5-4
5-2
60,000
12-8
14-2
10-11
11-3
10-2
9-6
8-9
7-1
6-10
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
10-3
11-5
8-9
9-1
8-2
7-8
7-1
6-0
5-10
60,000
14-3
15-11
11-9
12-5
10-8
9-9
8-9
7-1
6-10
2-#5
40,000
14-6
16-3
11-6
12-1
10-4
9-6
8-6
6-1 1
6-8
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
Center distance A m - "
2-0
2-6
1-6
1-7
1-3
1-1
1-0
STL
STL
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
315
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.8(6)— continued
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE CLEAR SPANS FOR 6-INCH-THICK WAFFLE-GRID LINTELS IN LOAD-BEARING WALLS" bcd ' e ' , '°
MAXIMUM ROOF CLEAR SPAN 40 FEET AND MAXIMUM FLOOR SPAN 32 FEET
LINTEL DEPTH,
(inches)
NUMBER OF
BARS AND BAR
SIZE IN TOP AND
BOTTOM OF
LINTEL
STEEL YIELD
STRENGTH", f y
(psi)
DESIGN LOADING CONDITION DETERMINED FROM TABLE R61 1.8(1)
1
2
3
4
5
Maximum ground snow load (psf)
—
30
70
30
70
30
70
30
70
Maximum clear span of lintel (feet - inches)
24w J
Span without stirrups kJ
6-0
6-8
5-5
5-7
5-3
5-0
4-10
4-6
4-5
l-#4
40,000
7-11
9-0
6-11
7-2
6-5
6-0
5-7
4-8
4-7
60,000
9-8
10-11
8-5
8-9
7-10
7-4
6-10
5-9
5-7
l-#5
40,000
9-10
11-2
8-7
8-11
8-0
7-6
7-0
5-10
5-8
60,000
12-0
13-7
10-6
10-10
9-9
9-2
8-6
7-2
6-11
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
11-1
12-7
9-8
10-1
9-1
8-6
7-10
6-7
6-5
60,000
15-6
17-7
13-6
14-0
12-8
11-10
10-8
8-7
8-4
2-#5
40,000
15-6
17-11
12-8
13-4
11-6
10-7
9-7
7-10
7-7
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
Center distance A m,n
2-4
3-0
1-9
1-11
1-6
1-4
1-2
STL
STL
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, I pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, Grade 40 = 280 MPa, Grade 60 = 420 MPa.
a. Where lintels are formed with waffle-grid forms, form materia] shall be removed, if necessary, to create top and bottom flanges of the lintel that are not less
than 3 inches in depth (in the vertical direction), are not less than 5 inches in width for 6-inch-nominal waffle-grid forms and not less than 7 inches in width
for 8-inch-nominal waffle-grid forms. See Figure R61 1.8(3). Flat form lintels shall be permitted in place of waffle-grid lintels. See Tables R61 1 8(2) through
R61 1.8(5).
b. See Table R6 11.3 for tolerances permitted from nominal thicknesses and minimum dimensions and spacing of cores.
c. Table values are based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi. See Notes 1 and n. Table values are based on uniform
loading. See Section R6 1 1 .8.2 for lintels supporting concentrated loads.
d. Deflection criterion is L/240, where L is the clear span of the lintel in inches, or 7 2 -inch, whichever is less.
e. Linear interpolation is permitted between ground snow loads.
f. DR indicates design required. STL - stirrups required throughout lintel.
g. Lintel depth, D, is permitted to include the available height of wall located directly above the lintel, provided that the increased lintel depth spans the entire
length of the lintel.
h. Stirrups shall be fabricated from reinforcing bars with the same yield strength as that used for the main longitudinal reinforcement.
i. Lintels less than 24 inches in depth with stirrups shall be formed from flat-walls forms [see Tables R61 1.8(2) through R61 1.8(5)], or, if necessary, form
material shall be removed from waffle-grid forms so as to provide the required cover for stirrups. Allowable spans for lintels formed with flat-wall forms
shall be determined from Tables R61 1 .8(2) through R6 1 1 .8(5).
j. Where stirrups are required for 24-inch deep lintels, the spacing shall not exceed 12 inches on center.
k. Allowable clear span without stirrups applicable to all lintels of the same depth, D. Top and bottom reinforcement for lintels without stirrups shall not be less
than the least amount of reinforcement required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups. All other spans require stirrups spaced at
not more than d/2.
1. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, clear spans for lintels without stirrups shall be permitted to be
multiplied by 1 .05. If the increased span exceeds the allowable clear span for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups, the top and
bottom reinforcement shall be equal to or greater than that required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition that has an allowable clear span that
is equal to or greater than that of the lintel without stirrups that has been increased.
m. Center distance, A, is the center portion of the span where stirrups are not required. This is applicable to all longitudinal bar sizes and steel yield strengths.
n. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, center distance, A, shall be permitted to be multiplied by 1 .10.
o. The maximum clear opening width between two solid wall segments shall be 1 8 feet. See Section R6 1 1 .7.2. 1 . Lintel spans in the table greater than 1 8 feet are
shown for interpolation and information only.
316
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.8(7)
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE CLEAR SPANS FOR 8-INCH-THICK WAFFLE-GRID LINTELS IN LOAD-BEARING WALLS 3 • b .<=. "•<■.',<>
MAXIMUM ROOF CLEAR SPAN 40 FEET AND MAXIMUM FLOOR CLEAR SPAN 32 FEET
LINTEL DEPTH,
(inches)
NUMBER OF
BARS AND BAR
SIZE IN TOP AND
BOTTOM OF
LINTEL
STEEL YIELD
STRENGTH", f y
(psi)
DESIGN LOADING CONDITION DETERMINED FROM TABLE R611.8(1)
1
2
3
4
5
Maximum ground snow load (psf)
30
70
30
70
30
70
30
70
Maximum clear span of lintel (feet - inches)
8 1
Span with stirrups k ' '
2-6
2-9
2-0
2-1
2-0
2-0
2-0
2-0
2-0
l-#4
40,000
4-5
4-9
3-7
3-9
3-4
3-0
2-10
2-3
2-2
60,000
5-6
6-2
4-0
4-3
3-7
3-1
2-10
2-3
2-2
l-#5
40,000
5-6
6-2
4-0
4-3
3-7
3-1
2-10
2-3
2-2
Center distance A m -"
0-9
0-10
0-6
0-6
0-5
0-4
0-4
STL
STL
I2 1
Span without stirrups k ' '
2-10
3-1
2-6
2-7
2-5
2-3
2-2
2-0
2-0
l-#4
40,000
5-7
6-1
4-8
4-10
4-4
3-11
3-8
3-0
2-11
60,000
6-9
7-5
5-8
5-11
5-4
4-9
4-5
3-8
3-7
l-#5
40,000
6-11
7-7
5-10
6-0
5-5
4-10
4-6
3-9
3-7
60,000
8-8
10-1
6-7
7-0
5-11
5-2
4-8
3-9
3-7
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
8-8
9-10
6-7
7-0
5-11
5-2
4-8
3-9
3-7
60,000
8-8
10-1
6-7
7-0
5-11
5-2
4-8
3-9
3-7
Center distance/l" 1 "
1-2
1-5
0-10
0-11
0-9
0-7
0-6
STL
STL
16 1
Span without stirrups' 1 ' '
3-10
4-3
3-6
3-7
3-4
3-2
3-0
2-10
2-9
l-#4
40,000
6-5
7-2
5-6
5-9
5-2
4-8
4-4
3-7
3-6
60,000
7-9
8-9
6-9
7-0
6-3
5-8
5-3
4-4
4-3
l-#5
40,000
7-11
8-11
6-10
7-1
6-5
5-9
5-4
4-5
4-4
60,000
9-8
10-11
8-4
8-8
7-10
7-0
6-6
5-2
5-1
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
9-0
10-1
7-9
8-0
7-3
6-6
6-1
5-0
4-11
60,000
11-5
13-10
9-2
9-8
8-3
7-2
6-6
5-2
5-1
Center distance A m "
1-6
1-11
1-2
1-3
1-0
0-10
0-8
STL
STL
20'
Span without stirrups k ' '
4-10
5-5
4-5
4-7
4-3
4-0
3-11
3-7
3-7
l-#4
40,000
7-0
8-1
6-3
6-5
5-10
5-3
4-11
4-1
3-11
60,000
8-7
9-10
7-7
7-10
7-1
6-5
6-0
4-11
4-10
l-#5
40,000
8-9
10-1
7-9
8-0
7-3
6-6
6-1
5-1
4-11
60,000
10-8
12-3
9-6
9-10
8-10
8-0
7-5
6-2
6-0
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
9-10
11-4
8-9
9-1
8-2
7-4
6-10
5-8
5-7
60,000
12-0
13-10
10-8
11-0
9-11
9-0
8-4
6-8
6-6
2-#5
40,000
12-3
14-1
10-10
11-3
10-2
8-11
8-1
6-6
6-4
60,000
14-0
17-6
11-8
12-3
10-6
9-1
8-4
6-8
6-6
Center distance A m "
1-10
2-5
1-5
1-7
1-3
1-0
0-11
STL
STL
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
317
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.8(7)— continued
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE CLEAR SPANS FOR 8-INCH-THICK WAFFLE-GRID LINTELS IN LOAD-BEARING WALLS
MAXIMUM ROOF CLEAR SPAN 40 FEET AND MAXIMUM FLOOR CLEAR SPAN 32 FEET
a, b, c, d, e, f , o
LINTEL DEPTH,
(inches)
NUMBER OF
BARS AND BAR
SIZE IN TOP AND
BOTTOM OF
LINTEL
DESIGN LOADING CONDITION DETERMINED FROM TABLE R61 1 .8(1 )
STEEL YIELD
STRENGTH", f y
(psi)
1
2
3
4
5
Maximum ground snow load (psf)
30
70
30
70
30
70
30
70
Maximum clear span of lintel (feet - inches)
24 j
Span without stirrups' 1 ' '
5-9
6-7
5-5
5-6
5-2
4-11
4-9
4-5
4-4
l-#4
40,000
7-6
8-10
6-10
7-1
6-5
5-9
5-5
4-6
4-4
60,000
9-2
10-9
8-4
8-8
7-10
7-1
6-7
5-6
5-4
l-#5
40,000
9-5
11-0
8-6
8-10
8-0
7-2
6-8
5-7
5-5
60,000
11-5
13-5
10-5
10-9
9-9
8-9
8-2
6-10
6-8
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
10-7
12-5
9-8
10-0
9-0
8-1
7-7
6-3
6-2
60,000
12-11
15-2
11-9
12-2
11-0
9-11
9-3
7-8
7-6
2-#5
40,000
13-2
15-6
12-0
12-5
11-2
9-11
9-2
7-5
7-3
60,000
16-3
21-0
14-1
14-10
12-9
11-1
10-1
8-1
7-11
2-#6
40,000
14-4
18-5
12-6
13-2
11-5
9-11
9-2
7-5
7-3
Center distance A m n
2-1
2-11
1-9
1-10
1-6
1-3
1-1
STL
STL
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, Grade 40 = 280 MPa, Grade 60 = 420 MPa.
a. Where lintels are formed with waffle-grid forms, form material shall be removed, if necessary, to create top and bottom flanges of the lintel that are not less
than 3 inches in depth (in the vertical direction), are not less than 5 inches in width for 6-inch-nominal waffle-grid forms and not less than 7 inches in width
for 8-inch-nominal waffle-grid forms. See Figure R61 1 .8(3). Flat form lintels shall be permitted in lieu of waffle-grid lintels. See Tables R6 1 1 .8(2) through
R61 1.8(5).
b. See Table R61 1.3 for tolerances permitted from nominal thicknesses and minimum dimensions and spacing of cores.
c. Table values are based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi. See Notes 1 and n. Table values are based on uniform
loading. See Section R61 1 .8.2 for lintels supporting concentrated loads.
d. Deflection criterion is £7240, where L is the clear span of the lintel in inches, or 7,-inch, whichever is less.
e. Linear interpolation is permitted between ground snow loads.
f. DR indicates design required. STL - stirrups required throughout lintel.
g. Lintel depth, D, is permitted to include the available height of wall located directly above the lintel, provided that the increased lintel depth spans the entire
length of the lintel.
h. Stirrups shall be fabricated from reinforcing bars with the same yield strength as that used for the main longitudinal reinforcement.
i. Lintels less than 24 inches in depth with stirrups shall be formed from flat-walls forms [see Tables R61 1.8(2) through R61 1.8(5)], or, if necessary, form
material shall be removed from waffle-grid forms so as to provide the required cover for stirrups. Allowable spans for lintels formed with flat-wall forms
shall be determined from Tables R61 1 .8(2) through R61 1 .8(5).
j. Where stirrups are required for 24-inch deep lintels, the spacing shall not exceed 12 inches on center,
k. Allowable clear span without stirrups applicable to all lintels of the same depth, D. Top and bottom reinforcement for lintels without stirrups shall not be less
than the least amount of reinforcement required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups. All other spans require stirrups spaced at
not more than d/2.
1. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, clear spans for lintels without stirrups shall be permitted to be multiplied
by 1.05. If the increased span exceeds the allowable clear span for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups, the top and bottom
reinforcement shall be equal to or greater than that required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition that has an allowable clear span that is equal
to or greater than that of the lintel without stirrups that has been increased,
m. Center distance, A, is the center portion of the span where stirrups are not required. This is applicable to all longitudinal bar sizes and steel yield strengths,
n. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, center distance, A, shall be permitted to be multiplied by 1 . 1 0.
o. The maximum clear opening width between two solid wall segments shall be 18 feet. See Section R61 1 .7.2. 1 . Lintel spans in the table greater than 1 8 feet are
shown for interpolation and information only.
318
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.8(8) h H .
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE CLEAR SPANS FOR 6-INCH-THICK SCREEN-GRID LINTELS IN LOAD-BEARING WALLS" bcd ' 6 ' ,p
ROOF CLEAR SPAN 40 FEET AND FLOOR CLEAR SPAN 32 FEET
LINTEL DEPTH,
(inches)
NUMBER OF
BARS AND BAR
SIZE IN TOP AND
BOTTOM OF
LINTEL
STEEL YIELD
STRENGTH", f y
(psi)
DESIGN LOADING CONDITION DETERMINED FROM TABLE R61 1 .8(1 )
1
2
3
4
5
Maximum ground snow load (psf)
30
70
30
70
30
70
30
70
Maximum clear span of lintel (feet - inches)
\2 1 '
Span without stirrups
2-9
2-11
2-4
2-5
2-3
2-3
2-2
2-0
2-0
16 ,J
Span without stirrups
3-9
4-0
3-4
3-5
3-2
3-1
3-0
2-9
2-9
20 ij
Span without stirrups
4-9
5-1
4-3
4-4
4-1
4-0
3-10
3-7
3-7
24 k
Span without stirrups 1, ra
5-8
6-3
5-2
5-3
5-0
4-10
4-8
4-4
4-4
l-#4
40,000
7-11
9-0
6-11
7-2
6-5
6-1
5-8
4-9
4-7
60,000
9-9
11-0
8-5
8-9
7-10
7-5
6-10
5-9
5-7
l-#5
40,000
9-11
11-2
8-7
8-11
8-0
7-7
7-0
5-11
5-9
60,000
12-1
13-8
10-6
10-10
9-9
9-3
8-6
7-2
7-0
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
11-2
12-8
9-9
10-1
9-1
8-7
7-11
6-8
6-6
60,000
15-7
17-7
12-8
13-4
11-6
10-8
9-8
7-11
7-8
2-#5
40,000
14-11
18-0
12-2
12-10
11-1
10-3
9-4
7-8
7-5
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
j Center distance A" 1 °
2-0 | 2-6
1-6
1-7
1-4
1-2
1-0
STL
STL
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, Grade 40 = 280 MPa, Grade 60 = 420 MPa.
a Where lintels are formed with screen-grid forms, form material shall be removed if necessary to create top and bottom flanges of the lintel that are not less
than 5 inches in width and not less than 2.5 inches in depth (in the vertical direction). See Figure R6 1 1.8(4). Flat form lintels shall be permitted in lieu of
screen-grid lintels. See Tables R61 1 .8(2) through R61 1 .8(5).
b See Table R61 1 .3 for tolerances permitted from nominal thickness and minimum dimensions and spacings of cores.
c. Table values are based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi. See Notes m and o. Table values are based on uniform
loading. See Section R61 1.7.2.1 for lintels supporting concentrated loads.
d. Deflection criterion is L/240, where L is the clear span of the lintel in inches, or V 2 -inch, whichever is less.
e. Linear interpolation is permitted between ground snow loads.
f. DR indicates design required. STL indicates stirrups required throughout lintel.
g. Lintel depth, D, is permitted to include the available height of wall located directly above the lintel, provided that the increased lintel depth spans the entire
length of the lintel.
h Stirrups shall be fabricated from reinforcing bars with the same yield strength as that used for the main longitudinal reinforcement.
i. Stirrups are not required for lintels less than 24 inches in depth fabricated from screen-grid forms. Top and bottom reinforcement shall consist of a No. 4 bar
having a yield strength of 40,000 psi or 60,000 psi.
j Lintels between 12 and 24 inches in depth with stirrups shall be formed from flat-wall forms [see Tables R61 1.8(2) through R61 1.8(5)], or form material
shall be removed from screen-grid forms to provide a concrete section comparable to that required for a flat wall. Allowable spans for flat lintels with stirrups
shall be determined from Tables R61 1.8(2) through R61 11.8(5).
k Where stirrups are required for 24-inch deep lintels, the spacing shall not exceed 12 inches on center.
1 Allowable clear span without stirrups applicable to all lintels of the same depth, D. Top and bottom reinforcement for lintels without stirrups shall not be less
than the least amount of reinforcement required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups. All other spans require stirrups spaced at
not more than 12 inches. .
m Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, clear spans for lintels without stirrups shall be permitted to be multiplied
by 1 05 If the increased span exceeds the allowable clear span for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition with stirrups, the top and bottom
reinforcement shall be equal to or greater than that required for a lintel of the same depth and loading condition that has an allowable clear span that is equal
to or greater than that of the lintel without stirrups that has been increased,
n Center distance, A, is the center portion of the span where stirrups are not required. This is applicable to all longitudinal bar sizes and steel yield strengths.
o Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, center distance, A, shall be permitted to be multiplied by 1 . 10.
p. The maximum clear opening width between two solid wall segments shall be 18 feet. See Section R61 1 .7.2.1. Lintel spans in the table greater than 18 feet are
shown for interpolation and information only.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
319
WALL CONSTRUCTION
MAXIMUM
TABLE R61 1.8(9)
ALLOWABLE CLEAR SPANS FOR FLAT LINTELS WITHOUT STIRRUPS IN NONLOAD-BEARING WALLS 3 ' b ' cde '8 h
LINTEL DEPTH,
D<
(inches)
NUMBER OF
BARS AND BAR
SIZE
STEEL YIELD
STRENGTH,/,
(psi)
NOMINAL WALL THICKNESS (inches)
4
6
8
10
Lintel Supporting
Concrete
Wall
Light-
framed
Gable
Concrete
Wall
Light-
framed
Gable
Concrete
Wall
Light-
framed
Gable
Concrete
Wall
Light-
framed
Gable
Maximum Clear Span of Lintel (feet - inches)
8
l-#4
40,000
10-11
11-5
9-7
11-2
7-10
9-5
7-3
9-2
60,000
12-5
1! '
10-11
13-5
9-11
13-2
9-3
12-10
l-#5
40,000
12-7
11-7
11-1
13-8
10-1
13-5
9-4
13-1
60,000
DR
DR
12-7
16-4
11-6
14-7
10-9
14-6
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
DR
DR
12-0
15-3
10-11
15-0
10-2
14-8
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
12-2
15-3
11-7
15-3
2-#5
40,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
12-7
16-7
11-9
16-7
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
13-3
16-7
2-#6
40,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
13-2
17-8
60,000
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
DR
12
l-#4
40,000
1 1 -
( i 10
10-6
12-0 9-6 11-6
8-9
11-1
60,000
11-5
_____
■.-K)
11-8
13-3 10-11 14-0
10-1
13-6
l-#5
40,000
l »-10
. — .
".-10
11-8
13-3 I 11-1 14-4
10-3
13-9
60,000
.."■* 11-3
ll-K | 13-3 | 11 10 ] 16-0
11-9
16-9
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
DR
DR
11-8 i t '. 3
i
11-10 lf)-()
11-2
15-6
60,000
DR
DR
ll-S P-3
i i 10 ; '6
ill;
18 1
2-#5
40,000
DR
DR
11 8
13-3 j 11-10 j !6-(
D-ll
8-4
60,000
DR
DR
11 '•!
13-." ] 11 10 j HVfT~
il-li
.■' 18 4 ■■
16
I-#4
40,000
n-6 4
H-0
U-10 13-8 | 10-7 1 12-11
9-11
12-4
60,000
l ;.(.
_.__J
... ! 3-0
13-8 16-7
12-4 15-9
11-5
15-0
l-#5
40,000
I 1-6
13-10 17-0
12-6 | 16-1
11-7
15-4
60,000
13-6
1 . .'i
i .
13 iO
17-1 | 14-0 19-7
13-4
18-8
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
! W) '
'.} 10
17-1
13-8 18-2
12-8
17-4
60,000
13-ft
15 ,
13-10 f 17-1
i4-o i j.f.-r j
!4-i
—
2-#5
40,000
13-6 !
iv.;i !
13-10 | 17-1
li-0 i 20-3 |
14 i
—
60,000
DR
DR
13-10 ] 17 j J.: is 1 20-3~~]
14 1
—
20
l-#4
40,000
14-11
: 15-to
13-0 14-10 | 11-9 | 13-11
10-10
13-2
60,000
s ;. '
15 io i
14-11
18-1
13-6
17-0
12-6
16-2
l-#5
40,000
15-3 7
15 [0
15-2
18-6
13-9
17-5
12-8
16-6
60,000
15-5
15 i!)
15-8 '
20-5
15-9
—
14-7
20-1
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
15-3
i.5-1'.)
15 «
20-5 14-11
—
13-10
—
60,000
15-3
is 10
1 >-H
20-5 > 15-10
—
15-11
—
2-#5
40,000
15-.:
15-Ki
! 5 8
20-. [ 15-10
—
1.5-11
—
60,000
15-3 r
15 if)
15-K
20-5 1 15 10 —
15-11
—
(continued)
320
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.8(9)— continued
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE CLEAR SPANS FOR FLAT LINTELS WITHOUT STIRRUPS IN NONLOAD-BEARING WALLS 3 ' bcde ' 9 ' h
LINTEL DEPTH,
D'
(inches)
NUMBER OF
BARS AND BAR
SIZE
STEEL YIELD
STRENGTH, f,
(psi)
NOMINAL WALL THICKNESS (inches)
4
6
8
10
Lintel Supporting
Concrete
Wall
Light-
framed
Gable
Concrete
Wall
Light-
framed
Gable
Concrete
Wall
Light-
framed
Gable
Concrete
Wall
Light-
framed
Gable
Maximum Clear Span of Lintel (feet - inches)
24
l-#4
40,000
16-1
17-1
13-11
15-10
12-7
14-9
11-8
13-10
60,000
1 (.- ) 1
IS 5
16-1
19-3
14-6
18-0
13-5
17-0
l-#5
40,000
16-11
1 ".-!
16-3
19-8
14-9
18-5
13-8
17-4
60,000
16-11
: " : :. : :•<■:•
J7-i
—
17-0
—
15-8
—
2-#4
l-#6
40,000
Ih II
>.-5
: 17 4
—
16-1
—
14-10
—
60,000
16-11
18 -5
17 J
— | i ? ->'->
—
17-1
—
2-#5
40,000
1ft"
is 5
1"
—
17-6
—
17-4
—
60,000
16-11
h. *
17-4
—
17-h
17-8
—
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, Grade 40 = 280 MPa, Grade 60 = 420 MPa.
a. See Table R6 1 1 .3 for tolerances permitted from nominal thickness.
b. Table values are based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2,500 psi. See Note e.
c. Deflection criterion is Z./240, where L is the clear span of the lintel in inches, or 7 2 inch, whichever is less.
d. Linear interpolation between lintels depths, D, is permitted provided the two cells being used to interpolate are shaded.
e. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, spans in cells that are shaded shall be permitted to be multiplied by 1 .05.
f. Lintel depth, D, is permitted to include the available height of wall located directly above the lintel, provided that the increased lintel depth spans the entire
length of the lintel.
g. DR indicates design required.
h. The maximum clear opening width between two solid wall segments shall be 1 8 feet. See Section R61 1.7.2.1 . Lintel spans in the table greater than 1 8 feet are
shown for interpolation and information purposes only.
TABLE R61 1.8(10)
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE CLEAR SPANS FOR WAFFLE-GRID AND SCREEN-GRID LINTELS WITHOUT STIRRUPS IN NONLOAD-
BEARING WALLS ' dM ' 9
LINTEL DEPTH h ,
D
(inches)
FORM TYPE AND NOMINAL WALL THICKNESS (inches)
6-inch Waffle-grid*
8-inch Waffle-grid"
6-inch Screen-grid"
Lintel supporting
Concrete Wall 1 Light-framed Gable
Concrete Wall
Light-framed Gable
Concrete Wall
Light-framed Gable
Maximum Clear Span of Lintel (feet - inches)
8
10-3
8-K
8-8
!S ;
— 1 —
12
9 2
7-6
1 Id
7 "1
■ - 8-8 . ■ 1 6-9 77;
16
10-11
10
•0 4
9-3
—
—
20
12-5
12 ~
f 10 /
it -7
—
24
13-9 ;
14-2
1! 10
12-1!
13-0 12-9
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm. Grade 40 = 280 MPa, Grade 60 = 420 MPa.
a. Where lintels are formed with waffle-grid forms, form material shall be removed, if necessary, to create top and bottom flanges of the lintel that are not less
than 3 inches in depth (in the vertical direction), are not less than 5 inches in width for 6-inch waffle-grid forms and not less than 7 inches in width for 8-mch
waffle-grid forms. See Figure R61 1.8(3). Flat form lintels shall be permitted in lieu of waffle-grid lintels. See Tables R61 1 .8(2) through R61 1.8(5).
b. Where lintels are formed with screen-grid forms, form material shall be removed if necessary to create top and bottom flanges of the lintel that are not less
than 5 inches in width and not less than 2.5 inches in depth (in the vertical direction). See Figure R61 1.8(4). Flat form lintels shall be permitted in lieu of
screen-grid lintels. See Tables R61 1 .8(2) through R61 1.8(5).
See Table R61 1 .3 for tolerances permitted from nominal thickness and minimum dimensions and spacing of cores.
Table values are based on concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 2.500 psi. See Note g.
Deflection criterion is L/240, where L is the clear span of the lintel in inches, or 7 2 -inch, whichever is less.
Top and bottom reinforcement shall consist of a No. 4 bar having a minimum yield strength of 40,000 psi.
g. Where concrete with a minimum specified compressive strength of 3,000 psi is used, spans in shaded cells shall be permitted to be multiplied by 1.05.
h. Lintel depth, D, is permitted to include the available height of wall located directly above the lintel, provided that the increased lintel depth spans the entire
length of the lintel.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
321
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R611.8.2.3 Lintels without stirrups designed for
nonload-bearing conditions. The maximum clear span
of lintels without stirrups designed for nonload-bearing
conditions of Table R611.8(l).l shall be determined in
accordance with this section. The maximum clear span
of lintels without stirrups in flat walls shall be deter-
mined in accordance with Table R61 1.8(9), and the
maximum clear span of lintels without stirrups in walls
of waffle-grid or screen-grid construction shall be
determined in accordance with Table R61 1.8(10).
R611.9 Requirements for connections-general. Concrete
walls shall be connected to footings, floors, ceilings and roofs
in accordance with this section.
R61 1.9.1 Connections between concrete walls and
light-framed floor, ceiling and roof systems. Connec-
tions between concrete walls and light-framed floor, ceil-
ing and roof systems using the prescriptive details of
Figures R61 1.9(1) through R6 11.9(12) shall comply with
this section and Sections R61 1.9.2 and R61 1.9.3.
R611.9.1.1 Anchor bolts. Anchor bolts used to con-
nect light-framed floor, ceiling and roof systems to
concrete walls in accordance with Figures R6 11.9(1)
through R6 11.9(12) shall have heads, or shall be rods
with threads on both ends with a hex or square nut on
the end embedded in the concrete. Bolts and threaded
rods shall comply with Section R61 1.5.2.2. Anchor
bolts with J- or L-hooks shall not be used where the
connection details in these figures are used.
R611.9.1.2 Removal of stay-in-place form material
at bolts. Holes in stay-in-place forms for installing
bolts for attaching face-mounted wood ledger boards to
the wall shall be a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) in
diameter for forms not greater than 1 V 2 inches (38 mm)
in thickness, and increased 1 inch (25 mm) in diameter
for each V 2 -inch (13 mm) increase in form thickness.
Holes in stay-in-place forms for installing bolts for
attaching face-mounted cold-formed steel tracks to the
wall shall be a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) square.
The wood ledger board or steel track shall be in direct
contact with the concrete at each bolt location.
Exception: A vapor retarder or other material less
than or equal to 7 I6 inch (1.6 mm) in thickness is
permitted to be installed between the wood ledger or
cold-formed track and the concrete.
R611.9.2 Connections between concrete walls and
light-framed floor systems. Connections between con-
crete walls and light-framed floor systems shall be in
accordance with one of the following:
1 . For floor systems of wood frame construction, the
provisions of Section R61 1.9.1 and the prescriptive
details of Figures R61 1.9(1) through R61 1.9(4),
where permitted by the tables accompanying those
figures. Portions of connections of wood-framed
floor systems not noted in the figures shall be in
accordance with Section R502, or AF&PA/WFCM,
if applicable.
2. For floor systems of cold-formed steel construction,
the provisions of Section R61 1.9.1 and the prescrip-
tive details of Figures R61 1.9(5) through R61 1.9(8),
where permitted by the tables accompanying those
figures. Portions of connections of cold-formed-
steel framed floor systems not noted in the figures
shall be in accordance with Section R505, or AISI
S230, if applicable.
3. Proprietary connectors selected to resist loads and
load combinations in accordance with Appendix A
(ASD) or Appendix B (LRFD) of PC A 100.
4. An engineered design using loads and load combi-
nations in accordance with Appendix A (ASD) or
Appendix B (LRFD) of PCA 100.
5. An engineered design using loads and material
design provisions in accordance with this code, or in
accordance with ASCE 7, ACI 318, and AF&PA/
NDS for wood frame construction or AISI SI 00 for
cold-formed steel frame construction.
R61 1.9.3 Connections between concrete walls and
light-framed ceiling and roof systems. Connections
between concrete walls and light-framed ceiling and roof
systems shall be in accordance with one of the following:
1. For ceiling and roof systems of wood frame con-
struction, the provisions of Section R61 1 .9. 1 and the
prescriptive details of Figures R6 1 1.9(9) and
R61 1.9(10), where permitted by the tables accompa-
nying those figures. Portions of connections of
wood-framed ceiling and roof systems not noted in
the figures shall be in accordance with Section
R802, or AF&PA/WFCM, if applicable.
2. For ceiling and roof systems of cold-formed-steel
construction, the provisions of Section R61 1 .9.1 and
the prescriptive details of Figures R6 11.9(11) and
R61 1.9(12), where permitted by the tables accompa-
nying those figures. Portions of connections of cold-
formed-steel framed ceiling and roof systems not
noted in the figures shall be in accordance with Sec-
tion R804, or AISI S230, if applicable.
3. Proprietary connectors selected to resist loads and
load combinations in accordance with Appendix A
(ASD) or Appendix B (LRFD) of PCA 100.
4. An engineered design using loads and load combi-
nations in accordance with Appendix A (ASD) or
Appendix B (LRFD) of PCA 100.
5. An engineered design using loads and material
design provisions in accordance with this code, or in
accordance with ASCE 7, ACI 318, and AF&PA/
NDS for wood-frame construction or AISI SI 00 for
cold-formed-steel frame construction.
R611.10 Floor, roof and ceiling diaphragms. Floors and
roofs in all buildings with exterior walls of concrete shall be
designed and constructed as diaphragms. Where gable-end
walls occur, ceilings shall also be designed and constructed as
diaphragms. The design and construction of floors, roofs and
ceilings of wood framing or cold-formed-steel framing serv-
ing as diaphragms shall comply with the applicable require-
ments of this code, or AF&PA/WFCM or AISI S230, if
applicable.
322
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
SHEATHING
BOUNDARY NAILING
SEE TABLE R602.3(1)\
7 4 IN. MINIMUM
CLEAR
SECTiON
MINIMUM
EMBEDMENT "E"
SEE TABLE BELOW
10d COMMON NAILS AT 6 IN.
ON CENTER FROM SHEATHING
TO JOIST WITH TENSION
TIES ATTACHED
EQUAL
EQUAL
PROVIDE WEB STIFFENER BOTH SIDES
OF WEB AT l-JOIST, WHERE OCCURS
A, IN. DIAMETER ANCHOR BOLT. SEE
TABLE R611 .9(1 ) FOR SPACING. CENTER
BOLT NOT MORE THAN 2 IN. FROM
JOIST FACE AT TENSION TIES.
TENSION TIE. SEE TABLE R611.9(1)FOR
SPACING. PROVIDE STEEL PLATE WASHER
4 x 4 * 7 2 IN. TO FACE OF JOIST WEB.
PROVIDE 4 IN. x 6 IN. « 4 IN. x 43 MIL MINIMUM
BENT STEEL PLATE ANGLE UNDER PLATE
WASHER WITH 6-10 * 1 V, IN. COMMON NAILS
TO JOIST. TENSION TIE ASD CAPACITY 875 LB •
WOOD 2 x 8 MINIMUM LEDGER TYPICAL,
3 x 8 WHERE REQUIRED BY TABLE R611 .9(1)
CUT WASHER
E
(in)
wall type
2%
in.
4 in. flat
4V 4
in.
6 in. flat
6 in. waffle-grid
6 in. screen-grid
67 4
in.
8 in. flat
10 in. flat
8 in. waffle-grid
JOIST
TENSION TIE
4 IN. DIAMETER SOLID CONCRETE BEHIND
AND ALIGNED WITH ANGLE
DETAIL A- PLAN ViEW
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound-force = 4.448 N.
FIGURE R61 1.9(1)
WOOD-FRAMED FLOOR TO SIDE OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PERPENDICULAR
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
323
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.9(1)
WOOD-FRAMED FLOOR TO SIDE OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PERPENDICULAR 3 bc
ANCHOR BOLT SPACING
(inches)
TENSION TIE SPACING
(inches)
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph)
85B
90B
100B
110B
120B
130B
85C
90C
100C
110C
85D
90D
100D
12
12
12
24
12
36
■^HHIi
i'Jl .J
12
48
mgstf
16
16
A
16
32
lffliilli|!iiiii|!ll
16
48
A
_
19.2
19.2
A
A
A
A
19.2
38.4
A
A
For Sf: I inch = 25.4 mm, l mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. This table is for use with the detail in Figure R61 1.9(1). Use of this detail is permitted where a cell is not shaded and prohibited where shaded.
b. Wall design per other provisions of Section R6 1 1 is required.
c. Letter "A" indicates that a minimum nominal 3x8 ledger is required.
324
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
SHEATHING BOUNDARY
NAILING. SEE TABLE
R602.3(1)
WOOD 2 x 8
MINIMUM LEDGER
TENSION TIE. SEE TABLE R611. 9(2) FOR SPACING. 54 MIL x 2 IN x 6 FT -
LENGTH MINIMUM GRADE 50 STRAP UNDER OR ON TOP OF FLOOR
SHEATHING. ATTACH STRAP TO FIRSTTWO BLOCK WITH 1 2-1 Od COMMON
NAILS 10d COMMON NAILS AT 6 IN. ON CENTER FOR BALANCE OF STRAP.
2x FULL DEPTH BLOCKING, TWO BAYS,
MINIMUM AT EACH TENSION TIE. PROVIDE 43
MIL MINIMUM CLIP ANGLE EACH END WITH NOT
LESS THAN 4-1 Od COMMON NAILS EACH LEG.
EQUAL
7 4 IN. MINIMUM
CLEAR
SECTION
MINIMUM
EMBEDMENT "E"
SEE TABLE BELOW
54 MIL x 2 IN. GRADE 50STRAP, WITH |
5-10d COMMON NAILS EACH END
7 2 IN. DIAMETER ANCHOR BOLT. SEE TABLE
R611 .9(2) FOR SPACING. CENTER BOLT
NOT MORE THAN 2 IN. FROM BLOCKING
FACE AT TENSION TIES.
- TENSION TIE. SEE TABLE R61 1.9(2) FOR
SPACING. PROVIDE STEEL PLATE WASHER
4x4x'/, IN. TO FACE OF BLOCKING WEB.
PROVIDE 4 IN. x 6 IN. * 4 IN. x 43 MIL
MINIMUM BENT STEEL PLATE ANGLE UNDER
PLATE WASHER WITH 6-10d x 17, COMMON
NAILS TO BLOCKING. TENSION TIE ASD
CAPACITY 875 LB.
JOIST RUNNING
PARALLEL TO WALL
OR I -JOIST WITH
WEB STIFFNERS
E
(in.)
wall type
2V„
in.
4 in. flat
4 3 / 4
in.
6 in. flat
6 in. waffle-grid
6 in. screen-grid
6 3 / 4
in.
8 in. flat
10 in. flat
8 in. waffle-grid
DETAIL B- PLAN VIEW
4 IN. DIAMETER SOLID CONCRETE BEHIND
AND ALIGNED WITH ANGLE
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound-force = 4.448 N.
FIGURE R611.9(2)
WOOD-FRAMED FLOOR TO SIDE OF CONCRETE WALL FRAMING PARALLEL
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
325
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.9(2)
WOOD-FRAMED FLOOR TO SIDE OF CONCRETE WALL
, FRAMING PARALLEL"- "
ANCHOR BOLT SPACING
(inches)
TENSION TIE SPACING
(Inches)
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph) AND WIND EXPOSURE CATEGORY
85b
90B
100B
110B
120B
130B
85C
90C
100C
110C
85D
90D
100D
12
12
12
24
12
36
fSi^^0&&^00Mmi
lif^lilfipliyi^lfe^ftpilJiftiMSsii^ll
12
48
Hfcl|ii8diii|
S^hl^^Bll^Hs
ll^^fcl
16
16
J
16
32
m
lpppii|jiHa
16
48
19.2
19.2
li^fcfc^
19.2
38.4
24
24
24
48
fitii^BB-w^fc^
PPIlfillillllillfl
For Si: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. This table is for use with the detail in Figure R61 1 .9(2). Use of this detail is permitted where a cell is not shaded and prohibited where shaded.
b. Wall design per other provisions of Section R6 1 1 is required.
326
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
SHEATHING BOUNDARY NAILING
SEE TABLE R602.3(1)
43 MIL CONTINUOUS PLATE WITH
NAILING TO MATCH BOUNDARY
NAILING. SEE TABLE R602.3(1)
8 IN. MINIMUM
WITH WEB
MATERIAL
REMOVED
SECTION
ANCHOR BOLT WITH
7 4 x 3 x 3 STEEL
PLATE WASHER
DETAIL A -PLAN VIEW
10d COMMON NAILSAT6 IN. CENTER
FROM SHEATHING TO JOISTS WITH
TENSION TIES ATTACHED.
TENSION TIE -SEE
TABLE R61 1.9(3)
FOR SPACING
JOIST (l-JOIST NOT PERMITTED)
WOOD 2x6 MINIMUM SILL PLATE
TYPICAL, 3 x 6 WHERE REQUIRED
BY TABLE R61 1.9(3)
V 2 IN. ANCHOR BOLT TYPICAL, V 8 IN.
WHERE REQUIRED. SEE TABLE
R611 .9(3) FOR SIZE AND SPACING.
TENSION TIE 4 IN. * 3 IN. * 3 IN. x 43 MIL.
NIMUM CLIP ANGLE EACH FACE
JOISTW!TH6~10dxl7 2 IN. COMMON
NAILS ON VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL LEGS
TENSION TIE ASD CAPACITY 760 LB
FOR BOTH ANGLES (380 LB PER ANGLE)
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound-force = 4.448 N.
FIGURE R61 1.9(3)
WOOD-FRAMED FLOOR TO TOP OF CONCRETE WALL FRAMING PERPENDICULAR
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
327
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.9(3)
WOOD-FRAMED FLOOR TO TOP OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PERPENDICULAR"' b
c, d, e
ANCHOR BOLT SPACING
(inches)
TENSION TIE SPACING
(inches)
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph) AND WIND EXPOSURE CATEGORY
85B
90B
1008
110B
120B
130B
85C
90C
100C
110C
85D
90D
100D
12
12
12
24
12
36
iMlllillf
12
48
16
16
6
A
6
B
16
32
6
A
6
B
16
48
5
B
19.2
19.2
6
A
6
A
19.2
38.4
6
A
6
A
24
24
6
A
6
B
6
A
mmamm®
24
48
6
A
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. This table is for use with the detail in Figure R61 1.9(3). Use of this detail is permitted where cell is not shaded, prohibited where shaded.
b. Wall design per other provisions in Section R611 is required.
c. For wind design, minimum 4-inch-nominal wall is permitted in unshaded cells with no number.
d. Number 6 indicates minimum permitted nominal wall thickness in inches necessary to develop required strength (capacity) of connection. As a minimum, this
nominal thickness shall occur in the portion of the wall indicated by the cross-hatching in Figure R61 1.9(3). For the remainder of the wall, see Note b.
e. Letter "A" indicates that a minimum nominal 3x6 sill plate is required. Letter "B" indicates that a V 8 -inch-diameter anchor bolt and a minimal nominal 3x6
sill plate are required.
328
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
SHEATHING BOUNDARY NAILING. SEE TABLE R602.3(1 )
TENSION TIE. 54 MIL * 2 IN. « 6 FT - LENGTH MINIMUM GRADE
50 STRAP CONTINUOUS UNDER OR ON TOP OF FLOOR SHEATHING.
ATTACH STRAP TO FIRST TWO BLOCKS WITH 1 2-1 Od COMMON NAILS.
10d COMMON NAILS AT 6 IN. ON CENTER FOR BALANCE OF STRAP.
2* FULL DEPTH BLOCKING, TWO BAYS MINIMUM AT EACH TENSION TIE.
PROVIDE 43 MIL MINIMUM CLIP ANGLE EACH END WITH NOT LESS THAN
4-1 Od COMMON NAILS EACH LEG.
43 MIL
CONTINUOUS
PLATE WITH
NAILING TO
MATCH
BOUNDARY
NAILING. SEE
TABLE R602.3(1)
i IN. MINIMUM
WITH WEB
MATERIAL
REMOVED
SECTION
JOIST RUNNING
PARALLEL TO WALL
- 54 MIL x 2 IN. GRADE 50 STRAP, WITH
5-1 Od COMMON NAILS EACH END
-TENSION TIE -SEE
TABLE R61 1.9(4) FOR SPACING
WOOD 2 » 6 MINIMUM SILL PLATE TYPICAL.
3 « 6 WHERE REQUIRED BY TABLE R611. 9(4)
7 2 IN. ANCHOR BOLT TYPICAL, % IN. WHERE REQUIRED.
SEE TABLE R61 1.9(4) FOR SIZE AND SPACING.
DETAIL B - PLAN VIEW
EQUAL
JOIST
<)
FLAT OR
FULL DEPTH
BLOCKING
AT STRAP
TENSION TIE. 4 IN. * 3 IN. * 3 IN. * 43 MIL MINIMUM CLIP ANGLE
BOTH SIDES OF BLOCKING WITH 6-1 Od x 17, IN. COMMON NAILS
ON HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL LEG. TENSION TIE ASD CAPACITY
760 LB FOR BOTH ANGLES, 380 LB PER ANGLE >
ANCHOR BOLT WITH 7,
STEEL PLATE WASHER
3x3
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound-force = 4.448 N.
FIGURE R61 1.9(4)
WOOD-FRAMED FLOOR TO TOP OF CONCRETE WALL FRAMING PARALLEL
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 3
329
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.9(4)
WOOD-FRAMED FLOOR TO TOP OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PARALLEL'-"' '"' 6
ANCHOR BOLT SPACING
(inches)
TENSION TIE SPACING
(inches)
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph) AND WIND EXPOSURE CATEGORY
85B
90B
100B
110B
120B
130B
85C
90C
100C
110C
85D
90D
100D
12
12
24
12
36
I
12
48
16
16
6
A
6
B
16
32
6
A
6
B
16
48
p|i^||fi|Mpi^fflpli
6
B
19.2
19.2
6
A
6
A
19.2
38.4
6
A
6
A
flRN
24
24
6
A
6
B
2
24
48
6
A
iBfcMllipil
jIllilli^^Bw!
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. This table is for use with the detail in Figure R61 1 .9(4). Use of this detail is permitted where a cell is not shaded, prohibited where shaded.
b. Wall design per other provisions of Section R61 1 is required.
c. For wind design, minimum 4-inch-nominal wall is permitted in unshaded cells with no number.
d. Number 6 indicates minimum permitted nominal wall thickness in inches necessary to develop required strength (capacity) of connection. As a minimum, this
nominal thickness shall occur in the portion of the wall indicated by the cross-hatching in Figure R61 1.9(4). For the remainder of the wall, see Note b.
e. Letter "A" indicates that a minimum nominal 3x6 sill plate is required. Letter "B" indicates that a 5 / g -inch-diameter anchor bolt and a minimal nominal 3x6
sill plate are required.
330
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
SHEATHING BOUNDARY FASTENING.
SEE TABLE R505. 3.1(2)
54 MIL GRADE 50 TRACK FOR ANCHOR BOLTS AT
19.2 IN. AND 24 IN. O.C. 43 MIL GRADE 50 OR 54
GRADE 33 FOR ANCHOR BOLTS AT 12 IN., OR 16 IN. O.C.
NO. 8 SCREWS AT 6 IN. ON CENTER
FROM SHEATHING TO JOIST WITH
TENSION TIESATTACHED.
7 4 IN. MINIMUM
CLEAR
SECTION
MINIMUM
EMBEDMENT "E"
SEE TABLE BELOW
7 2 IN. DIAMETER ANCHOR BOLT TYPICAL.
SEE TABLE R611.9(5) FOR SPACING. CENTER
BOLT NOT MORE THAN 2 IN. FORM JOIST WEB
AT TENSION TIES.
TENSION TIE. SEE TABLE R611.9(5) FOR SPACING.
PROVIDE STEEL PLATE WASHER 4 * 4 x 7, IN. TO
FACE OF JOIST WEB. PROVIDE 4 IN. x 4 IN. x 4 IN. * 43 MIL
MINIMUM BENT STEEL PLATE ANGLE UNDER PLATE
WASHER WITH 8 NO. 8 SCREWS TO JOIST WEB
TENSION TIEASD CAPACITY 2010 LB ~-.
DETAIL A -PLAN VIEW
E
(in.)
wall type
2 3 / 4
in.
4 in. flat
in.
6 in. flat
6 in. waffle-grid
6 in. screen-grid
6V 4
in.
8 in. flat
10 in. flat
8 in. waffle-grid
JOIST
TENSION TIE
4 IN. x 4 IN. SOLID CONCRETE
BEHIND AND ALIGNED WITH ANGLE
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound-force = 4.448 N.
FIGURE R61 1.9(5)
COLD-FORMED STEEL FLOOR TO SIDE OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PERPENDICULAR
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
331
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.9(5)
COLD-FORMED STEEL-FRAMED FLOOR TO SIDE OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PERPENDICULAR 3 ' bcd
ANCHOR BOLT
SPACING
(inches)
TENSION TIE SPACING
(inches)
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph) AND WIND EXPOSURE CATEGORY
85B
90B
100B
110B
120B
130B
85C
90C
100C
110C
85D
90D
100D
12
12
12
24
12
36
6
12
48
6
6
16
16
16
32
16
48
6
6
19.2
19.2
19.2
38.4
6
24
24
24
48
6
6
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.4470 m/s.
a. This table is for use with the detail in Figure R6I 1 .9(5). Use of this detail is permitted where a cell is not shaded.
b. Wall design per other provisions of Section R6 11 is required.
c. For wind design, minimum 4-inch-nominal wall is permitted in unshaded cells with no number.
d. Number 6 indicates minimum permitted nominal wall thickness in inches necessary to develop required strength (capacity) of connection. As a minimum, this
nominal thickness shall occur in the portion of the wall indicated by the cross-hatching in Figure R61 1.9(5). For the remainder of the wall, see Note b.
332
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
43 MIL MINIMUM TRACK. ONE NO.
8 SCREW FROM TRACK TO BLOCKING,
TOP AND BOTTOM FLANGE
SHEATHING BOUNDARY FASTENING.
SEE TABLE R505.3. 1(2)
TENSION TIE. 64 MIL X 2 IN. X 6 FT LENGTH MINIMUM GRADE
50 STRAP UNDER OR ON TOP OF FLOOR SHETHING. ATTACH
STRAP TO FIRST TWO BLOCKS WITH 12 NO. 8 SCREWS. NO 8
SCREWS AT 6 IN. ON CENTER FOR BALANCE OF STRAP
43 MIL MINIMUM FULL DEPTH BLOCKING, TWO
BAYS MINIMUM AT EACH TENSION TIE. PROVIDE
43 MIL MINIMUM CLIP ANGLE EACH END WTH
NOT LESS THAN 4- NO. 8 SCREWS EACH LEG
54 MIL x 2 IN. GRADE 50 STRAP,
WITH 4 NO. 8 SREWS EACH END
7„ IN. MINIMUM
CLEAR
SECTION
MINIMUM
EMBEDMENT "E"
SEE TABLE BELOW
"I, IN. DIAMETER ANCHOR BOLT TYPICAL.
SEE TABLE R61 1.9(6) FOR SPACING.
CENTER BOLT NOT MORE THAN 2 IN.
FROM BLOCKING WEB.
- TENSION TIE. SEE TABLE R611. 9(6)
FOR SPACING. PROVIDE STEEL PLATE
WASHER 4 x 4 x V, IN. TO FACE OF
BLOCKING WEB. PROVIDE 4 IN. x
4 IN. x 4 IN. x 43 MIL MINIMUM BENT
STEEL PLATE ANGLE UNDER PLATE
WASHER WITH 8 NO. 8 SCREWS TO
BLOCKING WEB. TENSION TIE
ASD CAPACITY 2010 LB g*.
JOIST RUN
PARALLEL
NING
TO WALL
E
(in.)
wall type
2 3 / 3
in.
4 in. flat
4V 4
in.
6 in. flat
6 in. waffle-grid
6 in. screen-grid
6'7„
in.
8 in. flat
10 in. flat
8 in. waffle-grid
/
L FLAT OR FULL
DEPTH
BLOCKING
AT STRAP
4 IN. x 4 IN. SOLID CONCRETE BEHIND
AND ALIGNED WITH ANGLE
DETAIL B - PLAN VIEW
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, I inch = 25.4 mm, I pound-force = 4.448 N.
FIGURE R61 1.9(6)
COLD-FORMED STEEL FLOOR TO SIDE OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PARALLEL
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
333
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.9(6)
COLD-FORMED STEEL-FRAMED FLOOR TO SIDE OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PARALLEL 3 ' bcd
ANCHOR BOLT SPACING
(inches)
TENSION TIE SPACING
(inches)
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph) AND WIND EXPOSURE CATEGORY
85B
90B
100B
110B
120B
130B
85C
90C
100C
110C
85D
90D
100D
12
12
12
24
12
36
6
12
48
6
6
16
16
16
32
16
48
6
6
19.2
19.2
19.2
38.4
6
24
24
24
48
6
6
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. This table is for use with the detail in Figure R61 1 .9(6). Use of this detail is permitted where a cell is not shaded.
b. Wall design per other provisions of Section R6 1 1 is required.
c. For wind design, minimum 4-inch-nominal wall is permitted in unshaded cells with no number.
d. Number 6 indicates minimum permitted nominal wall thick ness in inches necessary to develop required strength (capacity) of connection. As a minimum,
this nominal thickness shall occur in the portion of the wall indicated by the cross-hatching in Figure R6 1 1 .9(6). For the remainder of the wall, see Note b.
334
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
DIAPHRAGM BOUNDARY
FASTENING. SEE TABLE R505.3.1(2)
NO. 8 SCREW HORIZONTAL
AND 10d* 17 2 IN. COMMON
NAIL VERTICAL, SPACING TO
MATCH DIAPHRAGM
BOUNDARY FASTENING.
SEE TABLES R505.3. 1(2)
AND R602.3(1
; IN. MINIMUM
WITH WEB
MATERIAL
REMOVED
SECTION
DETAIL A -PLAN VIEW
EQUAL
NO. 8 SCREWS AT 6 IN.
ON CENTER FROM
SHEATHING TO JOISTS
WITH TENSION
TIES ATTACHED
TENSION TIE -SEE
TABLE R611. 9(7)
FOR SPACING
STEEL BREAK SHAPE
43 MIL MINIMUM
WOOD 2 x 6 MINIMUM SILL
PLATE TYPICAL, 3x6 WHERE
REQUIRED BY TABLE R61 1.9(7).
7 2 IN. DIAMETER ANCHOR BOLT
TYPICAL, % IN WHERE REQUIRED.
SEE TABLE R61 1.9(7) FOR
SIZE AND SPACING.
JOIST TYP. WITH 3-1 Od
x 17, IN. COMMON NAILS
TENSION TIE 4 IN. x 3 IN. x 3 IN. x 43
MIL MINIMUM CLIP ANGLE WITH 6 NO.
8 SCREWS ON VERTICAL LEG, 6-10d
x 17, IN. COMMON NAILS ON
HORIZONTAL LEG.
TENSION TIE ASD CAPACITY
700 LB
ANCHOR BOLT WITH 7 4 X 3 X 3
STEEL PLATE WASHER
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound-force = 4.448 N.
FIGURE R61 1.9(7)
COLD-FORMED STEEL FLOOR TO TOP OF CONCRETE WALL FRAMING PERPENDICULAR
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
335
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.9(7)
COLD-FORMED STEEL-FRAMED FLOOR TO TOP OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PERPENDICULAR 3 ' bcd ''
ANCHOR BOLT SPACING
(inches)
TENSION TIE SPACING
(inches)
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph) AND WIND EXPOSURE CATEGORY
85B
90B
100B
110B
120B
130B
858C
90C
100C
110C
85D
90D
100D
12
12
12
24
16
16
6
A
6
B
16
32
6
A
6
B
19.2
19.2
6
A
8
B
8
B
19.2
38.4
6
A
8
B
8
B
24
24
6
A
8
B
8
B
For SI: I inch = 25.4 ram, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. This table is for use with the detail in Figure R6 1 1 .9(7). Use of this detail is permitted where a cell is not shaded, prohibited where shaded.
b. Wall design per other provisions of Section R6 1 1 is required.
c. For wind design, minimum 4-inch-nominal wall is permitted in unshaded cells with no number.
d. Numbers 6 and 8 indicate minimum permitted nominal wall thickness in inches necessary to develop required strength (capacity) of connection. As a
minimum, this nominal thickness shall occur in the portion of the wall indicated by the cross-hatching in Figure R61 1.9(7). For the remainder of the wall, see
Note b.
e. Letter "A" indicates that a minimum nominal 3x6 sill plate is required. Letter "B" indicates that a 5 / s -inch-diameter anchor bolt and a minimum nominal 3 x
6 sill plate are required.
336
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
DIAPHRAGM BOUNDARY FASTENING. SEE TABLE R505.3.1(2)
TENSION TIE: 54 MIL * 2 * 6 FT LENGTH MINUMUM GRADE 50 STRAP
UNDER OR ON TOP OF FLOOR SHEATHING. ATTACH STRAP TO FIRST
TWO BLOCKS WITH 12 NO. 8 SCREWS. NO. 8 SCREWS AT 6 IN. ON
CENTER FOR BALANCE OF STRAP
43 MIL MINIMUM FULL DEPTH BLOCKING, TWO
BAYS MINIMUM AT EACH TENSION TIE. PROVIDE
43 MIL MINIMUM CLIP ANGLE EACH END WITH
NOT LESS THAN 4 NO. 8 SCREWS EACH LEG
NO. 8 SCREW
HORIZONTAL AND 10d
x 1V 2 IN. COMMON
NAILS VERTICAL,
SPACING TO MATCH
DIAPHRAGM BOUNDRY
FASTENING. SEE
TABLES R505.3. 1(2)
AND R602.3(1
UN. MINIMUM
WITH WEB
MATERIAL
REMOVED
JOIST RUNNING
PARALLEL TO WALL
54 MIL GRADE 50 * 2 IN. STRAP,
WITH 4 NO. 8 SCREWS EACH END
SECTION
. WOOD 2x6 MINIMUM SILL PLATE TYPICAL,
3 x 6 WHERE REQUIRED BY TABLE R611.9(8)
V, IN. DIAMETER ANCHOR BOLT TYPICAL,
7, IN. WHERE REQUIRED. SEE TABLE
R61 1.9(8) F0OR SIZE AND SPACING
BLOCKING TYP. WITH 3 NO. 8 x 27 2 WOOD
SCREWS TO SILL
V
EQUAL
uLlUu.Jbsa'
X-
4 IN.
(>
" i ^T^
\
-JOIST
BLOCKING
TYP.
i
_i
ALTERNATE END
CONNECTION WITH-
i BENT BLOCKING WEB
j AND 4 NO. 8 SCREWS
xf — EACH END
3-
JOIST
FLAT OR
FULL DEPTH
BLOCKING
AT STRAP
TENSION TIE 4 IN. x 3 IN. « 3 IN. x 43 MIL MINIMUM CLI
ANGLE WITH 6 NO. 8 SCREWS ON VERTICAL LEG,
4 10d x 17, IN. COMMON NAILS ON HORIZONTAL
LEG. TENSION TIE ASD CAPACITY 750 LB ^»
-ANCHOR BOLT WITH 7 4 :
STEEL PLATE WASHER
3x3
DETAIL B - PLAN VIEW
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound-force = 4.448 N.
FIGURE R61 1.9(8)
COLD-FORMED STEEL FLOOR TO TOP OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PARALLEL
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 1 *
337
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.9(8)
COLD-FORMED STEEL-FRAMED FLOOR TO TOP OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PARALLEL 8 ' b c ' "' e
ANCHOR BOLT SPACING
(inches)
TENSION TIE SPACING
(inches)
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph) AND WIND EXPOSURE CATEGORY
85B
90B
100B
110B
120B
130B
85C
90C
100C
110C
85D
90D
100D
12
12
12
24
16
16
6
A
6
B
16
32
6
A
6
B
19.2
19.2
6
A
8
B
8
B
19.2
38.4
6
A
8
B
8
B
mssm
24
24
6
A
8
B
8
B
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. This table is for use with the detail in Figure R61 1.9(8). Use of this detail is permitted where a cell is not shaded, prohibited where shaded.
b. Wall design per other provisions of Section R61 1 is required.
c. For wind design, minimum 4-inch-nominal wall is permitted in unshaded cells with no number.
d. Numbers 6 and 8 indicate minimum permitted nominal wall thickness in inches necessary to develop required strength (capacity) of connection. As a
minimum, this nominal thickness shall occur in the portion of the wall indicated by the cross-hatching in Figure R61 1 .9(8). For the remainder of the wall, see
Note b.
e. Letter "A" indicates that a minimum nominal 3x6 sill plate is required. Letter "B" indicates that a 7 8 -inch-diameter anchor bolt and a minimum nominal 3 x
6 sill plate are required.
338
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
NAILING FROM SHEATHING TO RAFTERS WITH TENSION
TIES ATTACHED. SEE TABLE R602.3(1) FOR NAIL SPACING
ROOF SHEATHING
BOUNDARY NAILING.
SEE TABLE R602. 3(1)
43 MIL CONTINUOUS
PLATE WITH NAILING TO
MATCH ROOF SHEATHING
BOUNDARY NAILING.
SEE TABLE R602. 3(1)
SECTION
NAILS JOIST TO RAFTER SHALL
BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH
IRCORAF&PAWFCM
10- 10d COMMON NAILS EACH
TENSION TIE LOCATION
TENSION TIE. SEE
TABLE R611.9(9) FOR SPACING
Od COMMON NAILSAT6 IN. ON
CENTER FROM SHEATHING TO
JOISTS WITH TENSION TIES ATTACHED.
CEILING DIAPHRAGM WHERE REQUIRED W/43 MIL.
ANGLE. PROVIDE DIAPHRAGM BOUNDARY NAILING
THROUGH SHEATHING TO BLOCK AND HORIZONTAL
TO SILL PLATE. SEE TABLE R602.3(1)
WOOD 2x6 MINIMUM SILL PLATE TYPICAL,
3 x 6 WHERE REQUIRED BY TABLE R611.9(9)
7 2 IN. DIAMETER ANCHOR BOLT TYPICAL,
% IN. WHERE REQUIRED
SEE TABLE R611. 9(9)
FOR SIZE AND SPACING.
CEILING JOIST ABOVE
TENSION TIE: 4 IN. * 3 IN. * 3 IN. * 43 MIL
MINIMUM CLIP ANGLE EACH FACE WITH
6- 10d x 17 2 IN. COMMON NAILS IN HORIZONTAL
AND VERTICAL LEG. TENSION TIE ASD CAPACITY
760 LB BOTH ANGLES, 380 LB PER ANGLE >»
ANCHOR BOLT WITH 7 4 X 3 X 3
STEEL PLATE WASHER
DETAIL A -PLAN VIEW
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I pound-force = 4.448 N.
FIGURE R61 1.9(9)
WOOD-FRAMED ROOF TO TOP OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PERPENDICULAR
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
339
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.9(9)
WOOD-FRAMED ROOF TO TOP OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PERPENDICULAR"" " 6
ANCHOR BOLT SPACING
(inches)
TENSION TIE SPACING
(inches)
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph) AND WIND EXPOSURE CATEGORY
85B
90B
100B
11 OB
120B
130B
85C
90C
100C
110C
85D
90D
100D
12
12
12
24
12
36
12
48
■Sliiii^BSi
16
16
6
16
32
6
16
48
19.2
19.2
6
6
A
19.2
38.4
6
24
24
6
A
6
A
6
B
24
48
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I mile per hour = 0.447 rn/s.
a. This table is for use with the detail in Figure R61 1 .9(9). Use of this detail is permitted where cell a is not shaded, prohibited where shaded.
b. Wall design per other provisions of Section R61 1 is required.
c. For wind design, minimum 4-inch-nominal wall is permitted in unshaded cells with no number.
d. Number 6 indicates minimum permitted nominal wall thickness in inches necessary to develop required strength (capacity) of connection. As a minimum, this
nominal thickness shall occur in the portion of the wall indicated by the cross-hatching in Figure R61 1 .9(9). For the remainder of the wall, see Note b.
e. Letter "A" indicates that a minimum nominal 3x6 sill plate is required. Letter "B" indicates that a ^-inch-diameter anchor bolt and a minimum nominal 3 x
6 sill plate are required.
340
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
SHEATHING BOUNDARY
NAILING. SEE
TABLE R602.3(1)
BLOCKING AT GABLE END
OUTLOOKER. 1 BAY MIN. ~
NAILING FROM SHEATHING
TO BLOCKING AND OUTLOOKER
6 IN. ON CENTER.
WOOD 2 x 6
MINIMUM SILL
PLATE TYPICAL, 3x6
WHERE REQUIRED BY
TABLE R61 1.9(10)
2x FULL DEPTH BLOCKING, TWO BAYS MINIMUM AT EACH
TENSION TIE. PROVIDE 43 MIL MINIMUM CLIPANGLE
EACH END WITH NOT LESS THAN 4- 10d COMMON NAILS EACH LOG
FLAT OR
FULL DEPTH
BLOCKING
AT STRAP
ANCHOR BOLT WITH
7 4 x 3 x 3 STEEL
PLATE WASHER. SEE
TABLE R61 1.9(10)
FOR SPACING'
TENSION TIE. SEE TABLE R611.9(10) FOR SPACING. 54 MIL x 4 IN. * 6 FT
LENGTH MINIMUM GRADE 50 STRAP UNDER OR ON TOP OF CEILING
SHEATHING. EXTEND STRAP ACROSS AND FASTEN TO WOOD SILL
PLATE WITH MINIMUM 10- 10d x 17 2 IN. COMMON NAILS. ATTACH STRAP
TO FIRSTTWO BLOCKS WITH 10- 10d COMMON NAILS. 10d COMMON
NAILS AT 6 IN. ON CENTER FOR BALANCE OF STRAP. TENSION TIE ASD
CAPACITY 1340 LB 3*»
43 MIL CONTINUOUS ANGLE WITH 10d COMMON NAILS AT BOUNDARY
NAIL SPACING THROUGH SHEATHING TO JOIST AND HORIZONTAL
TO SILL PLATE. SEE TABLE R602.3(1)
V 2 IN. DIAMETER ANCHOR BOLTTYPICAL, % IN. WHERE REQUIRED.
SEE TABLE R61 1.9(10) FOR SIZE AND SPACING.
DETAIL B - PLAN VIEW
For SI: I mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound-force = 4.448 N.
FIGURE R61 1.9(10)
WOOD-FRAMED ROOF TO TOP OF CONCRETE WALL FRAMING PARALLEL
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
341
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R611. 9(10)
WOOD-FRAMED ROOF TO TOP OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PARALLEL"" " 6
ANCHOR BOLT SPACING
(inches)
TENSION TIE SPACING
(inches)
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph) AND WIND EXPOSURE CATEGORY
85 B
90 B
100B
110B
120B
130B
85C
90C
100C
110C
85D
90D
100D
12
12
12
24
12
36
12
48
16
16
6
6
16
32
6
6
16
48
6
6
19.2
19.2
6
6
6
A
19.2
38.4
6
6
6
A
24
24
6
6
A
6
A
6
B
24
48
6
6
A
6
B
6
B
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. This table is for use with the detail in Figure R61 1.9(10). Use of this detail is permitted where a cell is not shaded.
b. Wall design per other provisions of Section R61 1 is required.
c. For wind design, minimum 4-inch-nominal wall is permitted in cells with no number.
d. Number 6 indicates minimum permitted nominal wall thickness in inches necessary to develop required strength (capacity) of connection. As a minimum, this
nominal thickness shall occur in the portion of the wall indicated by the cross-hatching in Figure R61 1 .9(10). For the remainder of the wall, see Note b.
e. Letter "A" indicates that a minimum nominal 3x6 sill plate is required. Letter "B" indicates that a 5 / s -inch-diameter anchor bolt and a minimum nominal 3 x
6 sill plate are required.
342
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
WHERE CEILING DIAPHRAGM IS NOT PROVIDED,
DIAPHRAGM BOUNDARY FASTENING SHALL BE IN
ACCORDANCE WITH TABLE R804.3. WHERE CEILING
DIAPHRAGM IS PROVIDED, DIAPHRAGM FASTENING
SHALL BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH Al SI S230
WHERE CEILING DIAPHRAGM IS PROVIDED,
CONTINUOUS STRAP SHALL BE
IN ACCORDANCE WITH AISI S230
WHERE CEILING DIAPHRAGM NOT
PROVIDED, 43 MIL MINIMUM BREAK SHAPE
EACH RAFTER BAY. WHERE CEILING
DIAPHRAGM IS PROVIDED BREAK SHAPE
SHALL BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH AISI S230
WHERE CEILING DIAPHRAGM IS NOT
PROVIDED, 10d COMMON NAILS
HORIZONTAL, SPACING TO MATCH
DIAPHRAGM BOUNDARY FASTENING
SHALL BE IN ACCORDANCE WITH TABLE
R602.3(1). WHERE CEILING DIAPHRAGM
IS PROVIDED, SEE AISI S230
SECTION
WHERE CEILING DIAPHRAGM IS NOTPROVIDED,
NO. 8 SCREWSAT6 IN. ON CENTER FROM SHEATHING
TO RAFTERS WITH TENSION TIES ATTACHED.
WHERE CEILING DIAPHRAGM IS PROVIDED,
SCREWS SHALL BE INACCORDANCE WITH AISI S230.
3 NO. 8 SCREWS MIN.
8 NO. 8 SCREWS EACH
TENSION TIE LOCATION WHERE
NO CEILING DIAPHRAGM IS
PROVIDED. SEE SECTION R611.10
DETAIL A -PLAN VIEW
I WOOD SILL;
■U=aa—
4-
TENSION TIE. SEE TABLE
R611.9(11) FOR SPACING.
NO. 8 SCREWS AT 6 IN. ON CENTER
FROM SHEATHING TO JOISTS WITH
TENSION TIES ATTACHED.
CEILING DIAPHRAGM WHERE REQUIRED W/43
MILANGLE, NO. 8 SCREWS TO STEEL, 10d
NAILS TO WOOD SILL. SEE TABLE R804.3 FOR
DIAPHRAGM BOUNDARY FASTENER SPACING
WOOD 2x6 MINIMUM SILL PLATE TYPICAL,
3x 6 WHERE REQUIRED BY TABLE R611.9(11)
/ 3 IN. DIAMETER ANCHOR BOLT TYPICAL,
% IN. WHERE REQUIRED. SEE TABLE
R611.9(11) FOR SIZE AND SPACING
. CEILING JOIST ABOVE WITH 3- 10d x
1 V 2 IN. COMMON NAILS TO WOOD SILL
"TENSION TIE. 4 IN. x 3 |N. x 3 |N. x
43 MIL MINIMUM CLIP ANGLE WITH
6 NO. 8 SCREWS VERTICAL LEG AND
6- 10d x i 1 / 2 IN. COMMON NAILS IN
HORIZONTAL LEG TENSION TIE
ASD CAPACITY 700 LB -^_
ANCHOR BOLT WITH 7 4 x 3 x 3
STEEL PLATE WASHER
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound-force = 4.448 N.
FIGURE R611.9(11)
COLD-FORMED STEEL ROOF TO TOP OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PERPENDICULAR
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 18
343
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.9(11)
WOOD-FRAMED ROOF TO TOP OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PERPENDICULAR" b
c, d, e
ANCHOR BOLT SPACING
(inches)
TENSION TIE SPACING
(inches)
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph) AND WIND EXPOSURE CATEGORY
85B
90B
100B
110B
120B
130B
85C
90C
100C
110C
85D
90D
100D
12
12
12
24
16
16
6
6
16
32
6
6
19.2
19.2
6
6
8
B
19.2
38.4
6
6
8
B
24
24
6
6
8
B
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. This table is for use with the detail in Figure R61 1.9(1 1). Use of this detail is permitted where a cell is not shaded, prohibited where shaded.
b. Wall design per other provisions of Section R6 1 1 is required.
c. For wind design, minimum 4-inch-nominal wall is permitted in unshaded cells with no number.
d. Numbers 6 and 8 indicate minimum permitted nominal wall thickness in inches necessary to develop required strength (capacity) of connection. As a
minimum, this nominal thick ness shall occur in the portion of the wall indicated by the cross-hatching in Figure R61 1 .9(11 ). For the remainder of the wall,
see Note b.
e. Letter "B" indicates that a 5 / 8 -inch-diameter anchor bolt and a minimum nominal 3x6 sill plate are required.
344
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
BLOCKING AT GABLE END
BRACE. 2 BAYS MINIMUM.
PROVIDE SCREWS FROM
SHEATHING TO BLOCKING
6 IN. MAXIMUM ON CENTER
FLAT OR
FULL DEPTH
BLOCKING
AT STRAP
4 IN. x31N. x 3x43 MIL
MINIMUM CLIPANGLE
WITH 6 NO. 8 SCREWS
VERTICAL LEG
ANCHOR BOLT WITH
V, x 4 x 4 STEEL PLATE
WASHER, SEE TABLE
R611.9(12) FOR SPACING
DETAIL B - PLAN VIEW
NO. 8 SCREWS
EACH END
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 ram, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound-force = 4.448 N.
FIGURE R61 1.9(12)
COLD-FORMED STEEL ROOF TO TOP OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PARALLEL
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
345
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R61 1.9(1 2)
COLD-FORMED STEEL ROOF TO TOP OF CONCRETE WALL, FRAMING PARALLEL 8 b
c, d, e
ANCHOR BOLT SPACING
(inches)
TENSION TIE SPACING
(inches)
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph) AND WIND EXPOSURE CATEGORY
85B
90B
100B
110B
120B
130B
85C
90C
100C
110C
85D
90D
100D
12
12
12
24
16
16
16
32
19.2
19.2
6
6
19.2
38.4
6
6
24
24
6
6
8
B
8
B
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
a. This table is for use with the detail in Figure R61 1 .9(1 2). Use of this detail is permitted where a cell is not shaded.
b. Wall design per other provisions of Section R61 1 is required.
c. For wind design, minimum 4-inch-nominal wall is permitted in cells with no number.
d. Numbers 6 and 8 indicate minimum permitted nominal wall thickness in inches necessary to develop required strength (capacity) of connection. As a
minimum, this nominal thickness shall occur in the portion of the wall indicated by the cross-hatching in Figure R61 1.9(12). For the remainder of the wall,
see Note b.
e. Letter "B" indicates that a 5 / g -inch-diameter anchor bolt is required.
346
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
SECTION R612
EXTERIOR WINDOWS AND DOORS
R612.1 General. This section prescribes performance and
construction requirements for exterior window and door
installed in wall. Windows and doors shall be installed and
flashed in accordance with the fenestration manufacturer's
written installation instructions. Window and door openings
shall be flashed in accordance with Section R703.8. Written
installation instructions shall be provided by the fenestration
manufacturer for each window or door.
R612.2 Performance. Exterior windows and doors shall be
designed to resist the design wind loads specified in Table
R301.2(2) adjusted for height and exposure in accordance
with Table R301.2(3).
R612.3 Testing and labeling. Exterior windows and sliding
doors shall be tested by an approved independent laboratory,
and bear a label identifying manufacturer, performance char-
acteristics and approved inspection agency to indicate com-
pliance with AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440. Exterior
side-hinged doors shall be tested and labeled as conforming
to AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440 or comply with Sec-
tion R6 12.5.
Exception: Decorative glazed openings.
R612.3.1 Comparative analysis. Structural wind load
design pressures for window and door units smaller than
the size tested in accordance with Section R612.3 shall be
permitted to be higher than the design value of the tested
unit provided such higher pressures are determined by
accepted engineering analysis. All components of the
small unit shall be the same as those of the tested unit.
Where such calculated design pressures are used, they
shall be validated by an additional test of the window or
door unit having the highest allowable design pressure.
R612.4 Garage doors. Garage doors shall be tested in accor-
dance with either ASTM E 330 or ANSI/ DASMA 108, and
shall meet the acceptance criteria of ANSI/DASMA 108.
R612.5 Other exterior window and door assemblies. Exte-
rior windows and door assemblies not included within the
scope of Section R612.3 or Section R612.4 shall be tested in
accordance with ASTM E 330. Glass in assemblies covered
by this exception shall comply with Section R308.5
R612.6 Wind-borne debris protection. Protection of exte-
rior windows and glass doors in buildings located in wind-
borne debris regions shall be in accordance with Section
R301.2.1.2.
R61 2.6.1 Fenestration testing and labeling. Fenestration
shall be tested by an approved independent laboratory,
listed by an approved entity, and bear a label identifying
manufacturer, performance characteristics, and approved
inspection agency to indicate compliance with the require-
ments of the following specification:
1. ASTM E 1 886 and ASTM E 1996; or
2. AAMA506.
R612.7 Anchorage methods. The methods cited in this sec-
tion apply only to anchorage of window and glass door
assemblies to the main force-resisting system.
R612.7.1 Anchoring requirements. Window and glass
door assemblies shall be anchored in accordance with the
published manufacturer's recommendations to achieve the
design pressure specified. Substitute anchoring systems
used for substrates not specified by the fenestration manu-
facturer shall provide equal or greater anchoring perfor-
mance as demonstrated by accepted engineering practice.
R612.7.2 Anchorage details. Products shall be anchored
in accordance with the minimum requirements illustrated
in Figures R612.7.2(l), R612.7.2(2), R612.7.2(3),
R6 12.7.2(4), R612.7.2C5), R612.7.2(6), R612.7.2(7) and
R612.7.2(8).
R612. 7.2.1 Masonry, concrete or other structural
substrate. Where the wood shim or buck thickness is
less than l 1 /, inches (38 mm), window and glass door
assemblies shall be anchored through the jamb, or by
jamb clip and anchors shall be embedded directly into
the masonry, concrete or other substantial substrate
material. Anchors shall adequately transfer load from
the window or door frame into the rough opening sub-
strate [see Figures R6 12.7.2(1) and R61 2.7.2(2)].
Where the wood shim or buck thickness is IV,
inches (38 mm) or more, the buck is securely fastened
to the masonry, concrete or other substantial substrate,
and the buck extends beyond the interior face of the
window or door frame, window and glass door assem-
blies shall be anchored through the jamb, or by jamb
clip, or through the flange to the secured wood buck.
Anchors shall be embedded into the secured wood buck
to adequately transfer load from the window or door
frame assembly [Figures R6 12.7.2(3), R6 12.7.2(4) and
R612.7.2(5)].
R612.7.2.2 Wood or other approved framing mate-
rial. Where the framing material is wood or other
approved framing material, window and glass door
assemblies shall be anchored through the frame, or by
frame clip, or through the flange. Anchors shall be
embedded into the frame construction to adequately
transfer load [Figures R61 2.7.2(6), R61 2.7.2(7) and
R612.7.2(8)].
R612.8 Mullions. Mullions shall be tested by an approved
testing laboratory in accordance with AAMA 450, or be engi-
neered in accordance with accepted engineering practice.
Mullions tested as stand-alone units or qualified by engineer-
ing shall use performance criteria cited in Sections R612.8.1,
R612.8.2 and R612.8.3. Mullions qualified by an actual test
of an entire assembly shall comply with Sections R612.8.1
and R612.8.3.
R612.8.1 Load transfer. Mullions shall be designed to
transfer the design pressure loads applied by the window
and door assemblies to the rough opening substrate.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE*
347
WALL CONSTRUCTION
SHIM OR WOOD BUCK
THICKNESS
FRAME CLIP
INSTALLATION
FIGURE R612.7.2(1)
THROUGH THE FRAME
FIGURE R612.7.2(2)
FRAME CLIP
TAPERED
BUCKS ARE
NOT ALLOWED
FRAME CLIP
INSTALLATION
FIGURE R612.7.2(3)
THROUGH THE FRAME
FIGURE R612.7.2(4)
FRAME CLIP
348
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
<>
-CO
mzoxt
fl
*
FIGURE R61 2.7.2(5)
THROUGH THE FLANGE
FIGURE R61 2.7.2(6)
THROUGH THE FLANGE
<■
e
r
FIGURE R61 2.7.2(7)
FRAME CLIP
FIGURE R61 2.7.2(8)
THROUGH THE FLANGE
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
349
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R61 2.8.2 Deflection. Mullions shall be capable of resist-
ing the design pressure loads applied by the window and
door assemblies to be supported without deflecting more
than L/175, where L is the span of the mullion in inches.
R612.8.3 Structural safety factor. Mullions shall be
capable of resisting a load of 1 .5 times the design pressure
loads applied by the window and door assemblies to be
supported without exceeding the appropriate material
stress levels. If tested by an approved laboratory, the 1.5
times the design pressure load shall be sustained for 10
seconds, and the permanent deformation shall not exceed
0.4 percent of the mullion span after the 1.5 times design
pressure load is removed.
SECTION R613
STRUCTURAL INSULATED PANEL WALL
CONSTRUCTION
R613.1 General. Structural insulated panel (SIP) walls shall
be designed in accordance with the provisions of this section.
When the provisions of this section are used to design struc-
tural insulated panel walls, project drawings, typical details
and specifications are not required to bear the seal of the
architect or engineer responsible for design, unless otherwise
required by the state law of the jurisdiction having authority.
R613.2 Applicability limits. The provisions of this section
shall control the construction of exterior structural insulated
panel walls and interior load-bearing structural insulated
panel walls for buildings not greater than 60 feet (18 288
mm) in length perpendicular to the joist or truss span, not
greater than 40 feet (12 192 mm) in width parallel to the joist
or truss span and not greater than two stories in height with
each wall not greater than 10 feet (3048 mm) high. All exte-
rior walls installed in accordance with the provisions of this
section shall be considered as load-bearing walls. Structural
insulated panel walls constructed in accordance with the pro-
visions of this section shall be limited to sites subjected to a
maximum design wind speed of 120 miles per hour (54 m/s),
Exposure A or B or 1 10 miles per hour (49 m/s) Exposure C,
and a maximum ground snow load of 70 pounds per foot
(3.35 kPa), and Seismic Design Categories A, B and C.
R613.3 Materials. SIPs shall comply with the following cri-
teria:
R613.3.1 Core. The core material shall be composed of
foam plastic insulation meeting one of the following
requirements:
1. ASTM C 578 and have a minimum density of 0.90
pounds per cubic feet (14.4 kg/m 3 ); or
2. Polyurethane meeting the physical properties shown
inTableR613.3.1,or;
3. An approved alternative.
All cores shall meet the requirements of Section R316.
R613.3.2 Facing. Facing materials for SIPs shall be wood
structural panels conforming to DOC PS 1 or DOC PS 2,
each having a minimum nominal thickness of 7 / 16 inch (11
mm) and shall meet the additional minimum properties
specified in Table R613.3.2. Facing shall be identified by
a grade mark or certificate of inspection issued by an
approved agency.
TABLE R61 3.3.1
MINIMUM PROPERTIES FOR POLYURETHANE INSULATION USED AS SIPS CORE
PHYSICAL PROPERTY
POLYURETHANE
Density, core nominal (ASTM D 1622)
2.2 lb/ft 3
Compressive resistance at yield or 10% deformation, whichever occurs first (ASTM D 1621)
19 psi (perpendicular to rise)
Flexural strength, min. (ASTM C 203)
30psi
Tensile strength, min. (ASTM D 1623)
35 psi
Shear strength, min. (ASTM C 273)
25 psi
Substrate adhesion, min. (ASTM D 1623)
22 psi
Water vapor permeance of 1.00-in. thickness, max. (ASTM E 96)
2.3 perm
Water absorption by total immersion, max. (ASTM C 272)
4.3% (volume)
Dimensional stability (change in dimensions), max.
[ASTM D 21 26 (7 days at 158°F/100% humidity and 7 days at -20°F)]
2%
For SI: 1 pound per cubic foot = 16.02 kg/m 3 , 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, °C = [(°F) - 32)1.8.
TABLE R613.3.2
MINIMUM PROPERTIES 3 FOR ORIENTED STRAND BOARD FACER MATERIAL IN SIP WALLS
Thickness
(in.)
Product
Flatwise Stiffness b
(lbf-in 2 /ft)
Flatwise Strength c
(Ibf-in/ft)
Tension c
(Ibf/ft)
Density"
(pcf)
Along
Across
Along
Across
Along
Across
7/16
Sheathing
55,600
16,500
1,040
460
7,450
5,800
34
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 lbf-inVft = 9.415 x 10 6 kPa/m, I Ibf-in/ft = 3.707 x 10 J kN/m, 1 lbf/ft = 0.0146 N/mm, I pound per cubic foot = 16.01 8 kg/m 3
a. Values listed in Table R61 3.3.2 are qualification test values and are not to be used for design purposes.
b. Mean test value shall be in accordance with Section 7.6 of DOC PS 2.
c. Characteristic test value (5th percent with 75% confidence).
d. Density shall be based on oven-dry weight and oven-dry volume.
350
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 88
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R613.3.3 Adhesive. Adhesives used to structurally lami-
nate the foam plastic insulation core material to the struc-
tural wood facers shall conform to ASTM D 2559 or
approved alternative specifically intended for use as an
adhesive used in the lamination of structural insulated pan-
els. Each container of adhesive shall bear a label with the
adhesive manufacturer's name, adhesive name and type
and the name of the quality assurance agency.
R613.3.4 Lumber. The minimum lumber framing mate-
rial used for SIPs prescribed in this document is NLGA
graded No. 2 Spruce-pine-fir. Substitution of other wood
species/grades that meet or exceed the mechanical proper-
ties and specific gravity of No. 2 Spruce-pine-fir shall be
permitted.
R613.3.5 SIP screws. Screws used for the erection of SIPs
as specified in Section R613.5 shall be fabricated from
steel, shall be provided by the SIPs manufacturer and shall
be sized to penetrate the wood member to which the
assembly is being attached by a minimum of 1 inch (25
mm). The screws shall be corrosion resistant and have a
minimum shank diameter of 0.188 inch (4.7 mm) and a
minimum head diameter of 0.620 inch (15.5 mm).
R613.3.6 Nails. Nails specified in Section R613 shall be
common or galvanized box unless otherwise stated.
R613.4 SIP wall panels. SIPs shall comply with Figure
R613.4 and shall have minimum panel thickness in accor-
dance with Tables R613.5(l) and R613.5(2) for above-grade
walls. All SIPs shall be identified by grade mark or certificate
of inspection issued by an approved agency.
FACING
ADHESIVE
ADHESIVE
FACING
FIGURE R613.4
SIP WALL PANEL
R613.4.1 Labeling. All panels shall be identified by grade
mark or certificate of inspection issued by an approved
agency. Each (SIP) shall bear a stamp or label with the fol-
lowing minimum information:
1 . Manufacturer name/logo.
2. Identification of the assembly.
3. Quality assurance agency.
R6I3.5 Wall construction. Exterior walls of SIP construc-
tion shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the
provisions of this section and Tables R6 13.5(1) and
R613.5(2) and Figures R613.5(l) through R613.5(5). SIP
walls shall be fastened to other wood building components in
accordance with Tables R602.3(l) through R602.3(4).
Framing shall be attached in accordance with Table
R602.3(l) unless otherwise provided for in Section R613.
R613.5.1 Top plate connection. SIP walls shall be
capped with a double top plate installed to provide over-
lapping at corner, intersections and splines in accordance
with Figure R613.5.1. The double top plates shall be made
up of a single 2 by top plate having a width equal to the
width of the panel core, and shall be recessed into the SIP
below. Over this top plate a cap plate shall be placed. The
cap plate width shall match the SIP thickness and overlap
the facers on both sides of the panel. End joints in top
plates shall be offset at least 24 inches (610 mm).
R613.5.2 Bottom (sole) plate connection. SIP walls shall
have full bearing on a sole plate having a width equal to
the nominal width of the foam core. When SIP walls are
supported directly on continuous foundations, the wall
wood sill plate shall be anchored to the foundation in
accordance with Figure R613.5.2 and Section R403.1.
R61 3.5.3 Wall bracing. SIP walls shall be braced in
accordance with Section R602.10. SIP walls shall be con-
sidered continuous wood structural panel sheathing for
purposes of computing required bracing. SIP walls shall
meet the requirements of Section R602. 10.4.2 except that
SIPs corners shall be fabricated as shown in Figure
R613.9. When SIP walls are used for wall bracing, the SIP
bottom plate shall be attached to wood framing below in
accordance with Table R602.3(l).
R613.6 Interior load-bearing walls. Interior load-bearing
walls shall be constructed as specified for exterior walls.
R6I3.7 Drilling and notching. The maximum vertical chase
penetration in SIPs shall have a maximum side dimension of
2 inches (5 1 mm) centered in the panel core. Vertical chases
shall have a minimum spacing of 24-inches (610 mm) on cen-
ter. Maximum of two horizontal chases shall be permitted in
each wall panel, one at 14 inches (360 mm) from the bottom
of the panel and one at mid-height of the wall panel. The
maximum allowable penetration size in a wall panel shall be
circular or rectangular with a maximum dimension of 12
inches (305 mm). Overcutting of holes in facing panels shall
not be permitted.
R613.8 Connection. SIPs shall be connected at vertical in-
plane joints in accordance with Figure R613.8 or by other
approved methods.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
351
WALL CONSTRUCTION
R613.9 Corner framing. Corner framing of SIP walls shall
be constructed in accordance with Figure R613.9.
R613.10 Headers. SIP headers shall be designed and con-
structed in accordance with Table R613.10 and Figure
R61 3.5.1. SIPs headers shall be continuous sections without
splines. Headers shall be at least U 7 / 8 inches (302 mm) deep.
Headers longer than 4 feet (1219 mm) shall be constructed in
accordance with Section R602.7.
R613.10.1 Wood structural panel box headers. Wood
structural panel box headers shall be allowed where SIP
headers are not applicable. Wood structural panel box
headers shall be constructed in accordance with Figure
R602.7.2 and Table R602.7.2.
TABLER613
MINIMUM THICKNESS FOR SIP WALL SUPPORTING
5(1)
SIP OR LIGHT-FRAME ROOF ONLY (inches) 3
Building Width (ft)
Wind Speed
(3-second gust)
Snow
Load
(psf)
24
28
32
36
40
Exp.
A/B
Exp.
C
Wall Height (feet)
Wall Height (feet)
Wall Height (feet)
Wall Height (feet)
Wall Height (feet)
8
9
10
8
9
10
8
9
10
8
9
10
8
9
10
85
—
20
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
30
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
50
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
70
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
100
85
20
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
30
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
50
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
70
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
6.5
4.5
4.5
N/A
110
100
20
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
30
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
6.5
50
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
6.5
4.5
4.5
6.5
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
4.5
N/A
70
4.5
4.5
6.5
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
6.5
N/A
4.5
N/A
N/A
120
110
20
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
4.5
N/A
30
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
6.5
N/A
50
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
6.5
N/A
4.5
N/A
N/A
4.5
N/A
N/A
4.5
N/A
N/A
70
4.5
N/A
N/A
4.5
N/A
N/A
4.5
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
N/A = Not Applicable,
a. Design assumptions:
Deflection criteria: 1/240.
Roof load: 7 psf.
Ceiling load: 5 psf.
Wind loads based on Table R301 .2 (2).
Strength axis of facing materials applied vertically.
352
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R613.5(2)
MINIMUM THICKNESS FOR SIP WALLS SUPPORTING SIP OR LIGHT-FRAME ONE STORY AND ROOF (inches) 8
Building Width (ft)
Wind Speed
(3-second gust)
Snow
Load
(psf)
24
28
32
36
40
Exp.
A/B
Exp.
C
Wall Height (feet)
Wall Height (feet)
Wall Height (feet)
Wall Height (feet)
Wall Height (feet)
8
9
10
8
9
10
8
9
10
8
9
10
3
9
10
85
—
20
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
30
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
50
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
N/A
70
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
6.5
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
N/A
N/A
100
85
20
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
6.5
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
4.5
N/A
30
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
N/A
N/A
50
4.5
4.5
6.5
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
70
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
6.5
N/A
4.5
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
110
100
20
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
6.5
N/A
4.5
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
30
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
4.5
N/A
4.5
N/A
N/A
4.5
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
50
4.5
6.5
N/A
4.5
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
70
4.5
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
120
110
20
4.5
N/A
N/A
4.5
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
30
4.5
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
50
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
70
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
For SI: l inch = 25.4 mm, l foot = 304.8 mm, ] pound per square foot =
N/A = Not Applicable,
a. Design assumptions:
Deflection criteria: L/240.
Roof load: 7 psf.
Ceiling load: 5 psf.
Second floor live load: 30 psf.
Second floor dead load: 10 psf.
Second floor dead load from walls: 10 psf.
Wind loads based on Table R30 1.2(2).
Strength axis of facing materials applied vertically.
0.0479 kPa.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
353
WALL CONSTRUCTION
SIP OR LIGHT
FRAME ROOF
SEE FIGURE
R613.5(3)
SIP WALL
FIRST STORY WALL HEIGHT
10 FT MAXIMUM
CONCRETE SLAB
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R613.5(1)
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE HEIGHT OF SIP WALLS
SIP OR LIGHT
FRAME ROOF
SEE FIGURE
R61 3.5(3)
SIP OR LIGHT-
FRAME WALL
SEE FIGURES
R61 3.5(4)
AND R61 3.5(5)
SIP WALL-
SECOND STORY WALL
HEIGHT 10 FT MAXIMUM
SIP OR LIGHT
FRAME FLOOR
SECOND STORY WALL
HEIGHT 10 FT MAXIMUM
y CONCRETE SLAB
For SI: I foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R613.5(2)
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE HEIGHT OF SIP WALLS
354
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
PRE-ENGINEERED
WOOD ROOF TRUSS
ATTACH PER CODE
CAP PLATE
TOP PLATE
CONTINUOUS
SEALANT EACH
SIDE OF FRAMING
AS RECOMMENDED
BY MANUFACTURER
SIP WALL PANEL
PRESSED METAL
GUSSET PLATE
CAP/TOP PLATE
CONNECTION
IN ACCORDANCE
WITH TABLE R602.3(1)
8d COMMON NAILS
AT6IN.OC. EACH SIDE
CONTINUOUS SEALANT
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R613.5(3)
TRUSSED ROOF TO TOP PLATE CONNECTION
SIP WALL
CONTINUOUS
SEALANT EACH SIDE
2x SOLE PLATE
MATCHING THE SIP
CORE THICKNESS
8d NAILS AT 6 IN.
O.C. EACH SIDE
RIM BOARD
CAP PLATE
8d NAILS AT 6 IN.
O.C. EACH SIDE
CONTINUOUS
SEALANT EACH SIDE
SOLE PLATE CONNECTION
IN ACCORDANCE WITH
TABLE R602.3(1)
FLOOR SHEATHING AND
FRAMING IN ACCORDANCE
WITH SECTION R502
INSULATION
TOP PLATE
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
Note: Figures illustrate SIP-specific attachment requirements. Other connections shall be made in accordance with Tables R602.3(l ) and (2) as appropriate.
FIGURE R61 3.5(4)
SIP WALL-TO-WALL PLATFORM FRAME CONNECTION
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
355
WALL CONSTRUCTION
SIP WALL
CONTINUOUS
SEALANT EACH SIDE
2x SOLE PLATE
MATCHING THE SIP
CORE THICKNESS
8d NAILS AT 6 IN.
O.C. EACH SIDE
8d NAILS AT 6 IN.
O.C. EACH SIDE
CONTINUOUS
SEALANT EACH SIDE
SOLE PLATE CONNECTION IN
ACCORDANCE WITH
TABLE R602.3(1)
CAP PLATE
TO PLATE
FLOOR SHEATHING
AND FRAMING IN
ACCORDANCE WITH
SECTION R502
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
Note: Figures illustrate SIP-specific attachment requirements. Other connections shall be made in accordance with Tables R602.3O) and (2), as appropriate.
FIGURE R613.5(5)
SIP WALL-TO-WALL BALLOON FRAME CONNECTION (I-Joist floor shown for Illustration only)
TOP PLATE
CAP PLATE
2x TOP PLATE RECESSED
INTO THE SIP CORE, WIDTH
EQUAL TO SIP CORE WIDTH
2x KING STUD RECESSED INTO
THE SIP CORE, WIDTH EQUAL
TO SIP CORE WIDTH
2x TOP PLATE RECESSED INTO
LOWER SIP
2x JACK STUD RECESSED
NTO THE SIP CORE, WIDTH
EQUAL TO SIP CORE WIDTH
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
Notes:
1 . Top plates shall be continuous over header.
2. Lower 2x top plate shall have a width equal to the SIP core width and shall be recessed into the top edge of the panel. Cap plate shall be placed over the
recessed top plate and shall have a width equal to the SIPs width.
3. SIP facing surfaces shall be nailed to framing and cripples with 8d common or galvanized box nails spaced 6 inches on center.
4. Galvanized nails shall be hot-dipped or tumbled. Framing shall be attached in accordance to Section R602.3(l ) unless otherwise provide for in Section R61 3.
FIGURE R613.5.1
SIP WALL FRAMING CONFIGURATION
356
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL CONSTRUCTION
SIP WALL
2x SOLE PLATE MATCHING
THE SIP CORE THICKNESS
8d NAILS AT 6 IN
O.C. EACH SIDE
CONCRETE OR MASONRY-
FOUNDATION WALL
OR SLAB
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
CAPILLARY BREAK UNDER
SOLE PLATE AND SIP FACING
ANCHOR BOLT EMBEDDED IN
CONCRETE 6 FT O.C. MAX
FIGURE R613.5.2
SIP WALL TO CONCRETE SLAB FOR FOUNDATION WALL ATTACHMENT
FACING MATERIAL IN
ACCORDANCE WITH
SECTION R613.3.2
EXPANSION GAP 7. IN.
3 lt
Mfjn | 1 1 i 1 1 i i i 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 11
^5
* i
^
_j-
\
X ^
I "HHi — ^J#5
>
8d NAIL AT 6 IN. O.C.
EACH SIDE OF SIP
-FACING MATERIAL IN
ACCORDANCE WITH
SECTION R61 3. 3.2
\_ 8dNAILAT6IN. O.C.
EACH SIDE OF SIP
•SURFACE SPLINES
SURFACE SPLINE CONNECTION
EXPANSION GAP 7. IN.
- — ™ ™ ™ — — — =: — — ™ -
,i
- :
- =
r ~
-
5
>
,-*-
■^
V
dr 1
I
s*
Qk=U
S
b. ^=z = = = = =:^z — — = =z =^*± = — 3T- AX- ■
^^^ — :^ = =r:z= = =: = ^^ — _; . . — 3
8d NAIL AT 6 IN. O.C.
EACH SIDE OF SIP
6dNAILAT6IN. O.C.
EACH SIDE OF SIP
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
BLOCK SPLINE
BLOCK SPLINE CONNECTION
FIGURE R613.8
TYPICAL SIP CONNECTION DETAILS FOR VERTICAL IN-PLANE JOINTS
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
357
WALL CONSTRUCTION
8dNAILSAT6IN.
O.C. EACH SIDE
FACING
CONTINUOUS SEALANT
EACH SIDE
SIP SCREW AT
24 IN. O.C
CONTINUOUS SEALANT
EACH SIDE
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R613.9
SIP CORNER FRAMING DETAIL
TABLE R613.10
MAXIMUM SPANS FOR 117 8 -INCH-DEEP SIP HEADERS (feet) 3
LOAD CONDITION
SNOW LOAD (psf)
BUILDING
width (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
Supporting roof only
20
4
4
4
4
2
30
4
4
4
2
2
50
2
2
2
2
2
70
2
2
2
N/A
N/A
Supporting roof and one-story
20
2
2
N/A
N/A
N/A
30
2
2
N/A
N/A
N/A
50
2
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
70
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
N/A = Not Applicable,
a. Design assumptions:
Maximum deflection criterion: L/360.
Maximum roof dead load: 1 psf.
Maximum ceiling load: 5 psf.
Maximum second floor live load: 30 psf.
Maximum second floor dead load: 1 psf.
Maximum second floor dead load from walls: 10 psf.
358
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 7
WALL COVERING
SECTION R701
GENERAL
R701.1 Application. The provisions of this chapter shall
control the design and construction of the interior and exte-
rior wall covering for all buildings.
R701.2 Installation. Products sensitive to adverse weather
shall not be installed until adequate weather protection for the
installation is provided. Exterior sheathing shall be dry before
applying exterior cover.
SECTION R702
INTERIOR COVERING
R702.1 General. Interior coverings or wall finishes shall be
installed in accordance with this chapter and Table
R702.1(l), Table R702.1(2), Table R702.1(3) and Table
R702.3.5. Interior masonry veneer shall comply with the
requirements of Section R703.7.1 for support and Section
R703.7.4 for anchorage, except an air space is not required.
Interior finishes and materials shall conform to the flame
spread and smoke-development requirements of Section
R302.9.
R702.2 Interior plaster.
R702.2.1 Gypsum plaster. Gypsum plaster materials
shall conform to ASTM C 5, C 22, C 28, C 35, C 59, C 61 ,
C 587, C 631, C 847, C 933, C 1032 and C 1047, and shall
be installed or applied in compliance with ASTM C 843
and C 844. Gypsum lath or gypsum base for veneer plas-
ter shall conform to ASTM C 1396. Plaster shall not be
less than three coats when applied over metal lath and not
less than two coats when applied over other bases permit-
ted by this section, except that veneer plaster may be
applied in one coat not to exceed V lfl inch (4.76 mm) thick-
ness, provided the total thickness is in accordance with
Table R702. 1(1).
R702.2.2 Cement plaster. Cement plaster materials shall
conform to ASTM C 91 (Type M, S or N), C 150 (Type I,
II and III), C 595 [Type IP, I (PM), IS and 1 (SM), C 847,
C 897, C 926, C 933, C 1032, C 1047 and C 1328, and
shall be installed or applied in compliance with ASTM C
1063. Gypsum lath shall conform to ASTM C 1396. Plas-
ter shall not be less than three coats when applied over
metal lath and not less than two coats when applied over
other bases permitted by this section, except that veneer
plaster may be applied in one coat not to exceed 3 / l6 inch
(4.76 mm) thickness, provided the total thickness is in
accordance with Table R702.1(l).
R702.2.2.1 Application. Each coat shall be kept in a
moist condition for at least 24 hours prior to application
of the next coat.
Exception: Applications installed in accordance
with ASTM C 926.
R702.2.2.2 Curing. The finish coat for two-coat
cement plaster shall not be applied sooner than 48
hours after application of the first coat. For three coat
cement plaster the second coat shall not be applied
sooner than 24 hours after application of the first coat.
The finish coat for three-coat cement plaster shall not
TABLE R702.1(1)
THICKNESS OF PLASTER
PLASTER BASE
FINISHED THICKNESS OF PLASTER FROM FACE OF LATH, MASONRY, CONCRETE (inches)
Gypsum Plaster
Cement Plaster
Expanded metal lath
7 S , minimum"
V g , minimum"
Wire lath
V 8 , minimum 3
3 / 4 , minimum (interior) 13
7 / 8 , minimum (exterior) 11
Gypsum lau¥
'/,, minimum
3 / 4 , minimum (interior) b
Masonry walls''
V 2 , minimum
V 2 , minimum
Monolithic concrete walls' d
5 / 8 , maximum
7 / s , maximum
Monolithic concrete ceilings'"' 1
7 8 , maximum'
'/,, maximum
Gypsum veneer base 1,8
V, 6 , minimum
V 4 , minimum (interior) b
Gypsum sheathing 5
—
3 / 4 , minimum (interior) b
7 / 8 , minimum (exterior) b
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
a. When measured from back plane of expanded metal lath, exclusive of ribs, or self-furring lath, plaster thickness shall be V 4 inch minimum.
b. When measured from face of support or backing.
c. Because masonry and concrete surfaces may vary in plane, thickness of plaster need not be uniform.
d. When applied over a liquid bonding agent, finish coat may be applied directly to concrete surface.
e. Approved acoustical plaster may be applied directly to concrete or over base coat plaster, beyond the maximum plaster thickness shown.
f. Attachment shall be in accordance with Table R702.3.5.
g. Where gypsum board is used as a base for cement plaster, a water-resistive barrier complying with Section R703.2 shall be provided.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE" 8
359
WALLCOVERING
be applied sooner than 48 hours after application of the
second coat.
R702.2.3 Support. Support spacing for gypsum or metal
lath on walls or ceilings shall not exceed 16 inches (406
mm) for 3 / 8 -inch-thick (9.5 mm) or 24 inches (610 mm) for
7 2 -inch-thick (12.7 mm) plain gypsum lath. Gypsum lath
shall be installed at right angles to support framing with
end joints in adjacent courses staggered by at least one
framing space.
R702.3 Gypsum board.
R702.3.1 Materials. All gypsum board materials and
accessories shall conform to ASTM C 22, C 475, C 514, C
1002, C 1047, C 1 177, C 1178, C 1278, C 1396 or C 1658
and shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of
this section. Adhesives for the installation of gypsum
board shall conform to ASTM C 557.
R702.3.2 Wood framing. Wood framing supporting gyp-
sum board shall not be less than 2 inches (5 1 mm) nominal
thickness in the least dimension except that wood furring
strips not less than 1-inch by 2-inch (25 mm by 51 mm)
nominal dimension may be used over solid backing or
framing spaced not more than 24 inches (610 mm) on cen-
ter.
R702.3.3 Cold-formed steel framing. Cold-formed steel
framing supporting gypsum board shall not be less than 1 7 4
inches (32 mm) wide in the least dimension. Nonload-bear-
ing cold-formed steel framing shall comply with ASTM C
645. Load-bearing cold-formed steel framing and all cold-
TABLER702.1(2)
GYPSUM PLASTER PROPORTIONS 3
NUMBER
COAT
PLASTER BASE OR LATH
MAXIMUM VOLUME AGGREGATE PER 100 POUNDS NEAT PLASTER b
(cubic feet)
Damp Loose Sand"
Perlite or Vermiculite"
Two-coat work
Base coat
Gypsum lath
2.5
2
Base coat
Masonry
3
3
Three-coat work
First coat
Lath
2"
2
Second coat
Lath
3 d
2'
First and second coats
Masonry
3
3
For St: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 cubic foot = 0.0283 m\ 1 pound = 0.454 kg.
a. Wood-fibered gypsum plaster may be mixed in the proportions of 100 pounds of gypsum to not more than 1 cubic foot of sand where applied on masonry or
concrete.
b. When determining the amount of aggregate in set plaster, a tolerance of 1 percent shall be allowed.
c. Combinations of sand and lightweight aggregate may be used, provided the volume and weight relationship of the combined aggregate to gypsum plaster is
maintained.
d. If used for both first and second coats, the volume of aggregate may be 2.5 cubic feet.
e. Where plaster is I inch or more in total thickness, the proportions for the second coat may be increased to 3 cubic feet,
TABLE R702.1(3)
CEMENT PLASTER PROPORTIONS, PARTS BY VOLUME
COAT
CEMENT
PLASTER
TYPE
CEMENTITIOUS MATERIALS
VOLUME OF
AGGREGATE PER
SUM OF SEPARATE
VOLUMES OF
CEMENTITIOUS
MATERIALS"
Portland Cement
Type 1, II or III or
Blended Cement
Type IP, 1 (PM), IS or
l(SM)
Plastic
Cement
Masonry Cement
Type M, S or N
Lime
First
Portland or
blended
1
3 / 4 -iv 2 *
2V 2 - 4
Masonry
i
27, - 4
Plastic
1
2'/, - 4
Second
Portland or
blended
1
Vi'/ 2
3-5
Masonry
1
3-5
Plastic
1
3-5
Finish
Portland or
blended
1
V2
l'/ 2 -3
Masonry
1
l'/ 2 -3
Plastic
1
1 7, - 3
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound = 0.545 kg.
a. Lime by volume of to 3/4 shall be used when the plaster will be placed over low-absorption surfaces such as dense clay tile or brick.
b. The same or greater sand proportion shall be used in the second coat than used in the first coat.
360
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALLCOVERING
formed steel framing from 0.033 inch to 0.1 12 inch (1 mm
to 3 mm) thick shall comply with ASTM C 955.
R702.3.4 Insulating concrete form walls. Foam plastics
for insulating concrete form walls constructed in accor-
dance with Sections R404.1 .2 and R61 1 on the interior of
habitable spaces shall be protected in accordance with
Section R316.4. Use of adhesives in conjunction with
mechanical fasteners is permitted. Adhesives used for
interior and exterior finishes shall be compatible with the
insulating form materials.
R702.3.5 Application. Maximum spacing of supports and
the size and spacing of fasteners used to attach gypsum
board shall comply with Table R702.3.5. Gypsum sheath-
ing shall be attached to exterior walls in accordance with
Table R602.3(l). Gypsum board shall be applied at right
angles or parallel to framing members. All edges and ends
of gypsum board shall occur on the framing members,
except those edges and ends that are perpendicular to the
framing members. Interior gypsum board shall not be
installed where it is directly exposed to the weather or to
water.
R702.3.6 Fastening. Screws for attaching gypsum board
to wood framing shall be Type W or Type S in accordance
with ASTM C 1002 and shall penetrate the wood not less
than V 8 inch (16 mm). Gypsum board shall be attached to
cold-formed steel framing with minimum No. 6 screws.
Screws for attaching gypsum board to cold-formed steel
framing less than 0.033 inch (1 mm) thick shall be Type S
in accordance with ASTM C 1002 or bugle head style in
accordance with ASTM C 1513 and shall penetrate the
TABLE R702.3.5
MINIMUM THICKNESS AND APPLICATION OF GYPSUM BOARD
THICKNESS
OF GYPSUM
BOARD
(inches)
APPLICATION
ORIENTATION OF
GYPSUM BOARD
TO FRAMING
MAXIMUM SPACING
OF FRAMING
MEMBERS
(inches o.c.)
MAXIMUM SPACING OF
FASTENERS (inches)
SIZE OF NAILS FOR APPLICATION
TO WOOD FRAMING
Nails 9
Screws"
Application without adhesive
%
Ceiling 11
Perpendicular
16
7
12
13 gage, 1 7 4 " long, "/ 64 " head; 0.098" diameter,
1 V 4 " long, annular-ringed; or 4d cooler nail,
0.080" diameter, 1 \" long, 7 32 " head.
Wall
Either direction
16
8
16
%
Ceiling
Either direction
16
7
12
13 gage, 1'7 S " long, l9 / 64 " head; 0.098" diameter,
1 '/" long, annular-ringed; 5d cooler nail, 0.086"
diameter, 1%" long, l5 / 64 " head; or gypsum board
nail, 0.086? diameter, 1 V g " long, % 2 " head.
Ceiling 11
Perpendicular
24
7
12
Wall
Either direction
24
8
12
Wall
Either direction
16
8
16
%
Ceiling
Either direction
16
7
12
13 gage, l 5 / 8 " long, "/ 64 " head; 0.098" diameter,
l 3 / 8 " long, annular-ringed; 6d cooler nail, 0.092"
diameter, l 7 /," long, 7 4 " head; or gypsum board
nail, 0.0915" diameter, 1 7 / 8 " long, 19 / 64 " head.
Ceiling"
Perpendicular
24
7
12
Wall
Either direction
24
8
12
Wall
Either direction
16
8
16
Application with adhesive
%
Ceiling 11
Perpendicular
16
16
16
Same as above for V s " gypsum board
Wall
Either direction
16
16
24
7 2 or 5 / 8
Ceiling
Either direction
16
16
16
Same as above for 7 2 " and 5 / 8 " gypsum board,
respectively
Ceiling 1 '
Perpendicular
24
12
16
Wall
Either direction
24
16
24
Two
% layers
Ceiling
Perpendicular
16
16
16
Base ply nailed as above for 7 2 " gypsum board;
face ply installed with adhesive
Wall
Either direction
24
24
24
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. For application without adhesive, a pair of nails spaced not less than 2 inches apart or more than 27 2 inches apart may be used with the pair of nails spaced 12
inches on center.
b. Screws shall be in accordance with Section R702.3.6. Screws for attaching gypsum board to structural insulated panels shall penetrate the wood structural
panel facing not less than 7 / l6 inch.
c. Where cold-formed steel framing is used with a clinching design to receive nails by two edges of metal, the nails shall be not less than 7 8 inch longer than the
gypsum board thickness and shall have ringed shanks. Where the cold-formed steel framing has a nailing groove formed to receive the nails, the nails shall
have barbed shanks or be 5d, 137, gage, '% inches long, %-inch head for 7,-inch gypsum board; and 6d, 13 gage, 1 7 S inches long, %-inch head for 5 / 8 -inch
gypsum board.
d. Three-eighths-inch-thick single-ply gypsum board shall not be used on a ceiling where a water-based textured finish is to be applied, or where it will be
required to support insulation above a ceiling. On ceiling applications to receive a water-based texture material, either hand or spray applied, the gypsum
board shall be applied perpendicular to framing. When applying a water-based texture material, the minimum gypsum board thickness shall be increased from
% inch to 7, inch for 16-inch on center framing, and from 7, inch to V R inch for 24-inch on center framing or 7,-inch sag-resistant gypsum ceiling board shall
be used.
e. Type X gypsum board for garage ceilings beneath habitable rooms shall be installed perpendicular to the ceiling framing and shall be fastened at maximum 6
inches o.c. by minimum l 7 / s inches 6d coated nails or equivalent drywall screws.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
361
WALL COVERING
steel not less than % inch (9.5 mm). Screws for attaching
gypsum board to cold-formed steel framing 0.033 inch to
0.1 12 inch (1 mm to 3 mm) thick shall be in accordance
with ASTM C 954 or bugle head style in accordance with
ASTM C 1513. Screws for attaching gypsum board to
structural insulated panels shall penetrate the wood struc-
tural panel facing not less than 7 / 16 inch (11 mm).
R702.3.7 Horizontal gypsum board diaphragm ceil-
ings. Use of gypsum board shall be permitted on wood
joists to create a horizontal diaphragm in accordance with
Table R702.3.7. Gypsum board shall be installed perpen-
dicular to ceiling framing members. End joints of adjacent
courses of board shall not occur on the same joist. The
maximum allowable diaphragm proportions shall be 1 '/,: 1
between shear resisting elements. Rotation or cantilever
conditions shall not be permitted. Gypsum board shall not
be used in diaphragm ceilings to resist lateral forces
imposed by masonry or concrete construction. All perime-
ter edges shall be blocked using wood members not less
than 2-inch by 6-inch (51 mm by 152 mm) nominal
dimension. Blocking material shall be installed flat over
the top plate of the wall to provide a nailing surface not
less than 2 inches (5 1 mm) in width for the attachment of
the gypsum board.
R702.3.8 Water-resistant gypsum backing board. Gyp-
sum board used as the base or backer for adhesive applica-
tion of ceramic tile or other required nonabsorbent finish
material shall conform to ASTM C 1396, C 1178 or
CI 27 8. Use of water-resistant gypsum backing board shall
be permitted on ceilings where framing spacing does not
exceed 12 inches (305 mm) on center for V 2 -inch-thick
(12.7 mm) or 16 inches (406 mm) for 5 / g -inch-thick (16
mm) gypsum board. Water-resistant gypsum board shall
not be installed over a Class I or II vapor retarder in a
shower or tub compartment. Cut or exposed edges, includ-
ing those at wall intersections, shall be sealed as recom-
mended by the manufacturer.
R702.3.8.1 Limitations. Water resistant gypsum back-
ing board shall not be used where there will be direct
exposure to water, or in areas subject to continuous
high humidity.
R702.4 Ceramic tile.
R702.4.1 General. Ceramic tile surfaces shall be installed
in accordance with ANSI A108.1, A108.4, A108.5,
A108.6, A108.ll, All 8.1, A118.3, A136.1 and A137.1.
R702.4.2 Fiber-cement, fiber-mat reinforced cementi-
tious backer units, glass mat gypsum backers and
fiber-reinforced gypsum backers. Fiber-cement, fiber-
mat reinforced cementitious backer units, glass mat gyp-
sum backers or fiber-reinforced gypsum backers in com-
pliance with ASTM C 1288, C 1325, C 1178 or C 1278,
respectively, and installed in accordance with manufactur-
ers' recommendations shall be used as backers for wall tile
in tub and shower areas and wall panels in shower areas.
R702.5 Other finishes. Wood veneer paneling and hard-
board paneling shall be placed on wood or cold-formed steel
framing spaced not more than 16 inches (406 mm) on center.
Wood veneer and hard board paneling less than 7 4 -inch (6
mm) nominal thickness shall not have less than a 3 / 8 -inch (10
mm) gypsum board backer. Wood veneer paneling not less
than V 4 -inch (6 mm) nominal thickness shall conform to
ANSI/HPVA HP-1. Hardboard paneling shall conform to
CPA/ANSIA135.5.
R702.6 Wood shakes and shingles. Wood shakes and shin-
gles shall conform to CSSB Grading Rules for Wood Shakes
and Shingles and shall be permitted to be installed directly to
the studs with maximum 24 inches (610 mm) on-center spac-
ing
R702.6.1 Attachment. Nails, staples or glue are permitted
for attaching shakes or shingles to the wall, and attach-
ment of the shakes or shingles directly to the surface shall
be permitted provided the fasteners are appropriate for the
type of wall surface material. When nails or staples are
used, two fasteners shall be provided and shall be placed
so that they are covered by the course above.
R702.6.2 Furring strips. Where furring strips are used,
they shall be 1 inch by 2 inches or 1 inch by 3 inches (25
mm by 51 mm or 25 mm by 76 mm), spaced a distance on
center equal to the desired exposure, and shall be attached
to the wall by nailing through other wall material into the
studs.
TABLE R702.3.7
SHEAR CAPACITY FOR HORIZONTAL WOOD-FRAMED GYPSUM BOARD DIAPHRAGM CEILING ASSEMBLIES
MATERIAL
THICKNESS OF MATERIAL
(min.) (inch)
SPACING OF
FRAMING MEMBERS
(max.) (inch)
SHEAR VALUE 3 ' b
(plf of ceiling)
MINIMUM
FASTENER SIZE* d
Gypsum board
7 2
16 o.c.
90
5d cooler or wallboard nail;
1%-inch long; 0.086-inch shank;
'V^-inch head
Gypsum board
%
24 o.c.
70
5d cooler or wallboard nail;
l 5 / s -inch long; 0.086-inch shank;
l5 / 64 -inch head
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I pound per linear foot = 1 .488 kg/m.
a. Values are not cumulative with other horizontal diaphragm values and are for short-term loading caused by wind or seismic loading. Values shall be reduced
25 percent for normal loading.
b. Values shall be reduced 50 percent in Seismic Design Categories D , D,, D, and E.
c. 1 7 4 -inch, #6 Type S or W screws may be substituted for the listed nails.
d. Fasteners shall be spaced not more than 7 inches on center at all supports, including perimeter blocking, and not less than V s inch from the edges and ends of
the gypsum board.
362
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL COVERING
■*•#
R702.7 Vapor retarders. Class I or II vapor retarders are
required on the interior side of frame walls in Climate Zones
5, 6, 7, 8 and Marine 4.
Exceptions:
1. Basement walls.
2. Below grade portion of any wall.
3. Construction where moisture or its freezing will not
damage the materials.
R702.7.1 Class III vapor retarders. Class III vapor
retarders shall be permitted where any one of the condi-
tions in Table R702.7.1 is met.
TABLE R702.7.1
CLASS II! VAPOR RETARDERS
CLIMATE
ZONE
CLASS III VAPOR RETARDERS PERMITTED FOR:"
Marine
4
Vented cladding over wood structural panels.
Vented cladding over fiberboard.
Vented cladding over gypsum.
Insulated sheathing with lvalue > 2.5 over 2x4 wall.
Insulated sheathing with #-value > 3.75 over 2x6 wall.
5
Vented cladding over wood structural panels.
Vented cladding over fiberboard.
Vented cladding over gypsum.
Insulated sheathing with .R-value > 5 over 2x4 wall.
Insulated sheathing with /?-value > 7.5 over 2x6 wall.
6
Vented cladding over fiberboard.
Vented cladding over gypsum.
Insulated sheathing with fl-value > 7.5 over 2x4 wall.
Insulated sheathing with /?-value > 1 1.25 over 2x6 wall.
7 and 8
Insulated sheathing with fi-value > 10 over 2x4 wall.
Insulated sheathing with W-value > 1 5 over 2x6 wall.
For SI: 1 pound per cubic foot = 16 kg/m 3 .
a. Spray foam with a minimum density of 2 lb/ft 3 applied to the interior
cavity side of wood structural panels, fiberboard, insulating sheathing or
gypsum is deemed to meet the insulating sheathing requirement where the
spray foam ft-value meets or exceeds the specified insulating sheathing R-
value.
R702.7.2 Materia! vapor retarder class. The vapor
retarder class shall be based on the manufacturer's certi-
fied testing or a tested assembly.
The following shall be deemed to meet the class speci-
fied:
Class I: Sheet polyethylene, unperforated aluminum
foil.
Class II: Kraft-faced fiberglass batts.
Class III: Latex or enamel paint.
R702.7.3 Minimum clear air spaces and vented open-
ings for vented cladding. For the purposes of this sec-
tion, vented cladding shall include the following minimum
clear air spaces. Other openings with the equivalent vent
area shall be permitted.
1. Vinyl lap or horizontal aluminum siding applied
over a weather resistive barrier as specified in Table
R703.4.
2. Brick veneer with a clear airspace as specified in
Table R703.7.4.
3. Other approved vented claddings.
SECTION R703
EXTERIOR COVERING
R703.1 General. Exterior walls shall provide the building
with a weather-resistant exterior wall envelope. The exterior
wall envelope shall include flashing as described in Section
R703.8.
R703.1.1 Water resistance. The exterior wall envelope
shall be designed and constructed in a manner that pre-
vents the accumulation of water within the wall assembly
by providing a water-resistant barrier behind the exterior
veneer as required by Section R703.2 and a means of
draining to the exterior water that enters the assembly.
Protection against condensation in the exterior wall assem-
bly shall be provided in accordance with Section R702.7
of this code.
Exceptions:
1 . A weather-resistant exterior wall envelope shall
not be required over concrete or masonry walls
designed in accordance with Chapter 6 and
flashed according to Section R703.7 or R703.8.
2. Compliance with the requirements for a means of
drainage, and the requirements of Sections
R703.2 and R703.8, shall not be required for an
exterior wall envelope that has been demon-
strated to resist wind-driven rain through testing
of the exterior wall envelope, including joints,
penetrations and intersections with dissimilar
materials, in accordance with ASTM E 331 under
the following conditions:
2.1. Exterior wall envelope test assemblies
shall include at least one opening, one
control joint, one wall/eave interface and
one wall sill. All tested openings and
penetrations shall be representative of
the intended end-use configuration.
2.2. Exterior wall envelope test assemblies
shall be at least 4 feet by 8 feet (1219
mm by 2438 mm) in size.
2.3. Exterior wall assemblies shall be tested
at a minimum differential pressure of
6.24 pounds per square foot (299 Pa).
2.4. Exterior wall envelope assemblies shall
be subjected to the minimum test expo-
sure for a minimum of 2 hours.
The exterior wall envelope design shall be
considered to resist wind-driven rain where the
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE B
363
WALLCOVERING
results of testing indicate that water did not pene-
trate control joints in the exterior wall envelope,
joints at the perimeter of openings penetration or
intersections of terminations with dissimilar
materials.
R703.1.2 Wind resistance. Wall coverings, backing
materials and their attachments shall be capable of resist-
ing wind loads in accordance with Tables R30 1.2(2) and
R301.2(3). Wind-pressure resistance of the siding and
backing materials shall be determined by ASTM E 330 or
other applicable standard test methods. Where wind-pres-
sure resistance is determined by design analysis, data from
approved design standards and analysis conforming to
generally accepted engineering practice shall be used to
evaluate the siding and backing material and its fastening.
All applicable failure modes including bending rupture of
siding, fastener withdrawal and fastener head pull-through
shall be considered in the testing or design analysis.
Where the wall covering and the backing material resist
wind load as an assembly, use of the design capacity of the
assembly shall be permitted.
R703.2 Water-resistive barrier. One layer of No. 15 asphalt
felt, free from holes and breaks, complying with ASTM D
226 for Type 1 felt or other approved water-resistive barrier
shall be applied over studs or sheathing of all exterior walls.
Such felt or material shall be applied horizontally, with the
upper layer lapped over the lower layer not less than 2 inches
(51 mm). Where joints occur, felt shall be lapped not less
than 6 inches (152 mm). The felt or other approved material
shall be continuous to the top of walls and terminated at pen-
etrations and building appendages in a manner to meet the
requirements of the exterior wall envelope as described in
Section R703.1.
Exception: Omission of the water-resistive barrier is per-
mitted in the following situations:
1. In detached accessory buildings.
2. Under exterior wall finish materials as permitted in
Table R703.4.
3. Under paperbacked stucco lath when the paper
backing is an approved water-resistive barrier.
R703.3 Wood, hardboard and wood structural panel sid-
ing.
R703.3.1 Panel siding. Joints in wood, hardboard or wood
structural panel siding shall be made as follows unless oth-
erwise approved. Vertical joints in panel siding shall occur
over framing members, unless wood or wood structural
panel sheathing is used, and shall be shiplapped or covered
with a batten. Horizontal joints in panel siding shall be
lapped a minimum of 1 inch (25 mm) or shall be
shiplapped or shall be flashed with Z-flashing and occur
over solid blocking, wood or wood structural panel sheath-
ing.
R703.3.2 Horizontal siding. Horizontal lap siding shall
be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's recom-
mendations. Where there are no recommendations the sid-
ing shall be lapped a minimum of 1 inch (25 mm), or V,
inch (13 mm) if rabbeted, and shall have the ends caulked,
covered with a batten or sealed and installed over a strip of
flashing.
R703.4 Attachments. Unless specified otherwise, all wall
coverings shall be securely fastened in accordance with Table
R703.4 or with other approved aluminum, stainless steel,
zinc-coated or other approved corrosion-resistive fasteners.
Where the basic wind speed in accordance with Figure
R301.2(4)A is 110 miles per hour (49 m/s) or higher, the
attachment of wall coverings shall be designed to resist the
component and cladding loads specified in Table R301.2(2),
adjusted for height and exposure in accordance with Table
R301.2(3).
R703.5 Wood shakes and shingles. Wood shakes and shin-
gles shall conform to CSSB Grading Rules for Wood Shakes
and Shingles.
R703.5.1 Application. Wood shakes or shingles shall be
applied either single-course or double-course over nomi-
nal V. 2 -inch (13 mm) wood-based sheathing or to furring
strips over 7 2 -inch (13 mm) nominal nonwood sheathing .
A permeable water-resistive barrier shall be provided over
all sheathing, with horizontal overlaps in the membrane of
not less than 2 inches (5 1 mm) and vertical overlaps of not
less than 6 inches (152 mm). Where furring strips are
used, they shall be 1 inch by 3 inches or 1 inch by 4 inches
(25 mm by 76 mm or 25 mm by 102 mm) and shall be fas-
tened horizontally to the studs with 7d or 8d box nails and
shall be spaced a distance on center equal to the actual
weather exposure of the shakes or shingles, not to exceed
the maximum exposure specified in Table R703.5.2. The
spacing between adjacent shingles to allow for expansion
shall not exceed 7 4 inch (6 mm), and between adjacent
shakes, it shall not exceed 7 2 inch (13 mm). The offset
spacing between joints in adjacent courses shall be a mini-
mum of 17 2 inches (38 mm).
R703.5.2 Weather exposure. The maximum weather
exposure for shakes and shingles shall not exceed that
specified in Table R703.5.2.
TABLE R703.5.2
MAXIMUM WEATHER EXPOSURE FOR WOOD SHAKES AND
SHINGLES ON EXTERIOR WALLS"' bc
(Dimensions are in inches)
LENGTH
EXPOSURE FOR SINGLE
COURSE
EXPOSURE FOR DOUBLE
COURSE
Shingles
16
7V 2
12"
18
87 2
14 c
24
U7 2
16
Shakes 1 '
18
87,
14
24
117 2
18
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Dimensions given are for No. 1 grade.
b. A maximum 1 0-inch exposure is permitted for No. 2 grade.
c. A maximum 11 -inch exposure is permitted for No. 2 grade.
364
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL COVERING
TABLE R703.4
WEATHER-RESISTANT SIDING ATTACHMENT AND MINIMUM THICKNESS
NOMINAL
THICKNESS"
(inches)
JOINT
TREATMENT
WATER-
RESISTIVE
BARRIER
REQUIRED
TYPE OF SUPPORTS FOR THE SIDING MATERIAL AND FASTENERS" c "
SIDING MATERIAL
Wood or wood
structural
panel
sheathing into
stud
Fiberboard
sheathing
into stud
Gypsum
sheathing
into stud
Foam
plastic
sheathing
into stud
Direct to
studs
Number or
spacing of
fasteners
Horizonal
aluminum 11
Without
insulation
0.019 f
0.024
Lap
Yes
0.120 nail
17," long
0.120 nail
2" long
0.120 nail
2" long
0.120
naiF
Not
allowed
Same as stud
spacing
Lap
Yes
0.120 nail
17/ long
0.120 nail
2" long
0.120 nail
2" long
0.120
naiF
Not
allowed
With
insulation
0.019
Lap
Yes
0.1 20 nail
1 7," long
0.120 nail
27," long
0.120 nail
27/ long
0.120
naiF
0.120 nail
1 7/ long
Anchored veneer:
brick, concrete,
masonry or stone
2
Section
R703
Yes
See Section R703 and Figure R703.7 8
Adhered veneer:
concrete, stone or
masonry*'
—
Section
R703
Yes
Note w
See Section R703.6.1- 5 or in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Hardboard k
Panel siding-vertical
V
—
Yes
Note m
Note m
Note m
Note m
Note m
6" panel edges
12" inter, sup."
Hardboard"
Lap-siding-horizontal
V
Notep
Yes
Noteo
Noteo
Note o
Noteo
Noteo
Same as stud
spacing 2 per
bearing
Steel"
29 ga.
Lap
Yes
0.113 nail
1 V Staple-
0.113 nail
2 V Sta-
pled'//
0.1 13 nail
27/Sta-
ple-27 4 "
0.113
nail"
Staple v
Not
allowed
Same as stud
spacing
Particleboard panels
-V'4
—
Yes
6d box nail
(2" x 0.099")
6d box nail
(2"x
0.099")
6d box nail
(2"x
0.099")
box naiF
6d box nail
(2"x
0.099"),
% not
allowed
6" panel edge,
12" inter, sup.
%
—
Yes
6d box nail
(2" x 0.099")
8d box nail
(27/ x
0.113")
8d box nail
(27," x
0.113")
box naiF
6d box nail
(2"" x
0.099")
Wood structural panel'
ANSI/ APA-PRP 210
siding' (exterior grade)
3 / - 7
'8 '?
Notep
Yes
0.099 nail-2"
0.113 nail-
27/
0.113 nail-
2 7/
0.113
naiF'
0.099
nail-2"
6" panel edges,
12" inter, sup.
Wood structural panel
lapsiding
-7 - 7
'S '2
Notep
Notex
Yes
0.099 nail-2"
0.113 nail-
27/
0.113 nail-
2 7,"
0.113
nail"
0.099
nail-2"
8" along
bottom edge
Vinyl siding 1
0.035
Lap
Yes
0.120 nail
(shank)
with a 0.313
head or
16-gage
staple with
V 8 to7 2 -inch
crown 5 '' ''
0.120 nail
(shank)
with a
0.313 head
or 16-gage
staple with
3 / s to
7,-inch
crown*
0.120 nail
(shank)
with a
0.313 head
or 1 6-gage
staple with
•V 8 to7 2 -
inch
crown y
0.120 nail
(shank)
with a
0.313
head per
Section
R703.11.2
Not
allowed
1 6 inches on
center or speci-
fied by the
manufacturer
instructions or
test report
Wood J
rustic, drop
-7 S Min
Lap
Yes
Fastener penetration into stud-1"
0.113
nail-2 7/
Staple-2"
Face nailing up
to 6" widths, 1
nail per bear-
ing; 8" widths
and over, 2
nails per
bearing
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
365
WALL COVERING
TABLE R703.4— continued
WEATHER-RESISTANT SIDING ATTACHMENT AND MINIMUM THICKNESS
SIDING
MATERIAL
NOMINAL
THICKNESS"
(inches)
JOINT
TREATMENT
WATER-
RESISTIVE
BARRIER
REQUIRED
TYPE OF SUPPORTS FOR THE SIDING MATERIAL AND FASTENERS" c "
Wood or wood
structural panel
sheathing into stud
Fiberboard
sheathing into
stud
Gypsum
sheathing
into stud
Foam plastic
sheathing
into stud
Direct to
studs
Number or
spacing of
fasteners
Shiplap
Average
Lap
Yes
Fastener penetration into stud-1"
0.1 13
nail -2'/,"
Staple-2"
Face nailing
up to 6"
widths, 1
nail per
bearing; 8"
widths and
over, 2 nails
per bearing
Bevel
? /, 6
Butt tip
"<«,
Lap
Yes
Fibercement
panel siding 11
5 /, 6
Noteq
Yes
Noteu
6d common
corrosion-
resistant nail'
6d
common
corrosion-
resistant nail r
6d
common
corrosion-
resistant
nail 1 "
6d
common
corrosion-
resistant
nail 1 • v
4d
common
corrosion-
resistant
nail r
6" o.c. on
edges, 12" o.c.
on intermed.
studs
Fibercement
lap siding 5
X
Notes
Yes
Noteu
6d common
corrosion-
resistant nair
6d common
corrosion-
resistant nail r
6d
common
corrosion-
resistant
nail r
6d
common
corrosion-
resistant
nail 1 '' v
6d
common
corrosion-
resistant
nail or 11-
gage roof-
ing nail 1
Notet
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Based on stud spacing of 16 inches on center where studs are spaced 24 inches, siding shall be applied to sheathing approved for that spacing.
b. Nail is a general description and shall be T-head, modified round head, or round head with smooth or deformed shanks.
c. Staples shall have a minimum crown width of 7 / l6 -inch outside diameter and be manufactured of minimum 16-gage wire.
d. Nails or staples shall be aluminum, galvanized, or rust-preventative coated and shall be driven into the studs where fiberboard, gypsum, or foam plastic
sheathing backing is used. Where wood or wood structural panel sheathing is used, fasteners shall be driven into studs unless otherwise permitted to be
driven into sheathing in accordance with the siding manufacturer's installation instructions.
e. Aluminum nails shall be used to attach aluminum siding.
f. Aluminum (0.019 inch) shall be unbacked only when the maximum panel width is 10 inches and the maximum flat area is 8 inches. The tolerance for
aluminum siding shall be +0.002 inch of the nominal dimension.
g. All attachments shall be coated with a corrosion-resistant coating,
h. Shall be of approved type.
i. Three-eighths-inch plywood shall not be applied directly to studs spaced more than 16 inches on center when long dimension is parallel to studs. Plywood V 2 -
inch or thinner shall not be applied directly to studs spaced more than 24 inches on center. The stud spacing shall not exceed the panel span rating provided by
the manufacturer unless the panels are installed with the face grain perpendicular to the studs or over sheathing approved for that stud spacing,
j. Wood board sidings applied vertically shall be nailed to horizontal nailing strips or blocking set 24 inches on center. Nails shall penetrate 1 '/, inches into
studs, studs and wood sheathing combined or blocking,
k. Hardboard siding shall comply with CPA/ANSI A135.6.
1. Vinyl siding shall comply with ASTM D 3679.
m. Minimum shank diameter of 0.092 inch, minimum head diameter of 0.225 inch, and nail length must accommodate sheathing and penetrate framing 1 7,
inches,
n. When used to resist shear forces, the spacing must be 4 inches at panel edges and 8 inches on interior supports,
o. Minimum shank diameter of 0.099 inch, minimum head diameter of 0.240 inch, and nail length must accommodate sheathing and penetrate framing 1 7 2
inches,
p. Vertical end joints shall occur at studs and shall be covered with a joint cover or shall be caulked.
q. See Section R703. 10.1.
r. Fasteners shall comply with the nominal dimensions in ASTM F 1667.
s. See Section R703. 10.2.
t. Face nailing: one 6d common nail through the over lap ping planks at each stud. Concealed nailing: one 1 1 gage l'/ 2 inch long galv. roofing nail through the
top edge of each plank at each stud,
u. See Section R703.2 exceptions.
v. Minimum nail length must accommodate sheathing and penetrate framing 17, inches.
w. Adhered masonry veneer shall comply with the requirements of Section R703.6.3 and shall comply with the requirements in Sections 6.1 and 6.3 of TMS-
402 AC1 530/ASCE 5.
x. Vertical joints, if staggered shall be permitted to be away from studs if applied over wood structural panel sheathing.
y. Minimum fastener length must accommodate sheathing and penetrate framing 0.75 inches or in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions,
z. Where approved by the manufacturer's instructions or test report siding shall be permitted to be installed with fasteners penetrating not less than 0.75 inches
through wood or wood structural sheathing with or without penetration into the framing.
366
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL COVERING
R703.5.3 Attachment. Each shake or shingle shall be held
in place by two hot-dipped zinc-coated, stainless steel, or
aluminum nails or staples. The fasteners shall be long
enough to penetrate the sheathing or furring strips by a
minimum of '/-, inch (13 mm) and shall not be overdriven.
R703.5.3.1 Staple attachment. Staples shall not be
less than 16 gage and shall have a crown width of not
less than 7 / 16 inch (1 1 mm), and the crown of the staples
shall be parallel with the butt of the shake or shingle. In
single-course application, the fasteners shall be con-
cealed by the course above and shall be driven approxi-
mately 1 inch (25 mm) above the butt line of the
succeeding course and 3 / 4 inch (19 mm) from the edge.
In double-course applications, the exposed shake or
shingle shall be face-nailed with two casing nails,
driven approximately 2 inches (51 mm) above the butt
line and 3 / 4 inch (19 mm) from each edge. In all applica-
tions, staples shall be concealed by the course above.
With shingles wider than 8 inches (203 mm) two addi-
tional nails shall be required and shall be nailed approx-
imately 1 inch (25 mm) apart near the center of the
shingle.
R703.5.4 Bottom courses. The bottom courses shall be
doubled.
R703.6 Exterior plaster. Installation of these materials shall
be in compliance with ASTM C 926 and ASTM C 1063 and
the provisions of this code.
R703.6.1 Lath. All lath and lath attachments shall be of
corrosion-resistant materials. Expanded metal or woven
wire lath shall be attached with 1 7 2 -inch-long (38 mm), 1 1
gage nails having a 7 /, 6 -inch (11.1 mm) head, or 7 / 8 -inch-
long (22.2 mm), 16 gage staples, spaced at no more than 6
inches (152 mm), or as otherwise approved.
R703.6.2 Plaster. Plastering with portland cement plaster
shall be not less than three coats when applied over metal
lath or wire lath and shall be not less than two coats when
applied over masonry, concrete, pressure-preservative
treated wood or decay-resistant wood as specified in Sec-
tion R317.1 or gypsum backing. If the plaster surface is
completely covered by veneer or other facing material or
is completely concealed, plaster application need be only
two coats, provided the total thickness is as set forth in
Table R702.1(l).
On wood-frame construction with an on-grade floor
slab system, exterior plaster shall be applied to cover, but
not extend below, lath, paper and screed.
The proportion of aggregate to cementitious materials
shall be as set forth in Table R702.1(3).
R703.6.2.1 Weep screeds. A minimum 0.019-inch (0.5
mm) (No. 26 galvanized sheet gage), corrosion-resis-
tant weep screed or plastic weep screed, with a mini-
mum vertical attachment flange of 3'/ 2 inches (89 mm)
shall be provided at or below the foundation plate line
on exterior stud walls in accordance with ASTM C 926.
The weep screed shall be placed a minimum of 4 inches
(102 mm) above the earth or 2 inches (51 mm) above
paved areas and shall be of a type that will allow
trapped water to drain to the exterior of the building.
The weather-resistant barrier shall lap the attachment
flange. The exterior lath shall cover and terminate on
the attachment flange of the weep screed.
R703.6.3 Water-resistive barriers. Water-resistive barri-
ers shall be installed as required in Section R703.2 and,
where applied over wood-based sheathing, shall include a
water-resistive vapor-permeable barrier with a perfor-
mance at least equivalent to two layers of Grade D paper.
The individual layers shall be installed independently such
that each layer provides a separate continuous plane and
any flashing (installed in accordance with Section R703.8)
intended to drain to the water- resistive barrier is directed
between the layers.
Exception: Where the water-resistive barrier that is
applied over wood-based sheathing has a water resis-
tance equal to or greater than that of 60-minute Grade
D paper and is separated from the stucco by an inter-
vening, substantially nonwater-absorbing layer or
designed drainage space.
R703.6.4 Application. Each coat shall be kept in a moist
condition for at least 48 hours prior to application of the
next coat.
Exception: Applications installed in accordance with
ASTM C 926.
R703.6.5 Curing. The finish coat for two-coat cement
plaster shall not be applied sooner than seven days after
application of the first coat. For three-coat cement plaster,
the second coat shall not be applied sooner than 48 hours
after application of the first coat. The finish coat for three-
coat cement plaster shall not be applied sooner than seven
days after application of the second coat.
R703.7 Stone and masonry veneer, general. Stone and
masonry veneer shall be installed in accordance with this
chapter, Table R703.4 and Figure R703.7. These veneers
installed over a backing of wood or cold- formed steel shall be
limited to the first story above-grade plane and shall not I
exceed 5 inches (127 mm) in thickness. See Section R602.10 |
for wall bracing requirements for masonry veneer for wood-
framed construction and Section R603.9.5 for wall bracing
requirements for masonry veneer for cold-formed steel con-
struction.
Exceptions:
1. For all buildings in Seismic Design Categories A, B
and C, exterior stone or masonry veneer, as speci-
fied in Table R703.7(l), with a backing of wood or
steel framing shall be permitted to the height speci-
fied in Table R703.7(l) above a noncombustible
foundation.
2. For detached one- or two-family dwellings in Seis-
mic Design Categories D , D, and D 2 , exterior stone
or masonry veneer, as specified in Table R703.7(2),
with a backing of wood framing shall be permitted
to the height specified in Table R703.7(2) above a
noncombustible foundation.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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SEALANT
FLASHING AND WEEPHOLES
MASONRY VENEER
WALLBOARD
WATER-RESISTIVE
BARRIER"
METAL TIE 6
WATER-RESISTIVE BARRIER 6
1-IN. AIR SPACE OR
1-IN. GROUTED SPACE 1
MASONRY VENEER
FLASHING WEEPHOLES 3
SHEATHING
ANCHOR BOLT
GROUTED FULL
For SI: 1 inch = 24.5 mm.
FIGURE R703.7
MASONRY VENEER WALL DETAILS
(continued)
368
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WALL COVERING
ROOFING
MIN. CLEARANCE
OF 3 / 4 -IN.
METAL TIE 1
WATER-RESISTIVE BARRIER
WALLBOARD
1-IN. AIR SPACE OR
1-IN. MORTARED SPACE
WATER-RESISTIVE BARRIER"
FLASHING 3
STEEL LINTEL"
WEEPHOLE 3
SEALANT
MASONRY VENEER
WALLBOARD
INSULATION
BETWEEN STUDS
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. See Sections R703.7.5, R703.7.6 and R703.8
b. See Sections R703.2 and R703.7.4.
c. See Section R703.7.4.2 and Table R703.7.4.
d. See Section R703.7.3.
FIGURE R703.7— continued
MASONRY VENEER WALL DETAILS
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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WALL COVERING
TABLE R703.7(1)
STONE OR MASONRY VENEER LIMITATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS,
WOOD OR STEEL FRAMING, SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORIES A, B AND C
SEISMIC DESIGN
CATEGORY
NUMBER OF
WOOD OR STEEL-
FRAMED STORIES
MAXIMUM HEIGHT OF
VENEER ABOVE
NONCOMBUSTIBLE
FOUNDATION" (feet)
MAXIMUM NOMINAL
THICKNESS OF
VENEER (inches)
MAXIMUM WEIGHT OF
VENEER (psf) b
WOOD OR STEEL-
FRAMED STORY
AorB
Steel: 1 or 2
Wood: 1,2 or 3
30
5
50
all
C
1
30
5
50
1 only
2
30
5
50
top
bottom
Wood only: 3
30
5
50
top
middle
bottom
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.479 kPa.
a. An additional 8 feet is permitted for gable end walls. See also story height limitations of Section R30 1.3.
b. Maximum weight is installed weight and includes weight of mortar, grout, lath and other materials used for installation. Where veneer is placed on both faces
of a wall, the combined weight shall not exceed that specified in this table.
TABLE R703.7(2)
STONE OR MASONRY VENEER LIMITATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS,
ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DETACHED DWELLINGS, WOOD FRAMING, SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORIES D n , D, AND D,
SEISMIC DESIGN
CATEGORY
NUMBER OF WOOD
FRAMED STORIES"
MAXIMUM HEIGHT OF
VENEER ABOVE
NONCOMBUSTIBLE
FOUNDATION OR
FOUNDATION WALL (feet)
MAXIMUM NOMINAL
THICKNESS OF VENEER
(inches)
MAXIMUM WEIGHT OF
VENEER
(psf) b
Do
1
20 c
4
40
2
20 c
4
40
3
30 d
4
40
D,
1
20 c
4
40
2
20 c
4
40
3
20 c
4
40
D 2
1
20 c
3
30
2
20 c
3
30
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.479 kPa, 1 pound-force = 4.448 N.
a. Cripple walls are not permitted in Seismic Design Categories D , D, and D 2 .
b. Maximum weight is installed weight and includes weight of mortar, grout and lath, and other materials used for installation.
c. The veneer shall not exceed 20 feet in height above a noncombustible foundation, with an additional 8 feet permitted for gable end walls, or 30 feet in height
with an additional 8 feet for gable end walls where the lower 1 feet has a backing of concrete or masonry wall. See also story height limitations of Section
R301.3.
d. The veneer shall not exceed 30 feet in height above a noncombustible foundation, with an additional 8 feet permitted for gable end walls. See also story height
limitations of Section R301 .3.
R703.7.1 Interior veneer support. Veneers used as inte-
rior wall finishes shall be permitted to be supported on
wood or cold-formed steel floors that are designed to sup-
port the loads imposed.
R703.7.2 Exterior veneer support. Except in Seismic
Design Categories D , D, and D 2 , exterior masonry
veneers having an installed weight of 40 pounds per
square foot (195 kg/m 2 ) or less shall be permitted to be
supported on wood or cold-formed steel construction.
When masonry veneer supported by wood or cold-formed
steel construction adjoins masonry veneer supported by
the foundation, there shall be a movement joint between
the veneer supported by the wood or cold-formed steel
construction and the veneer supported by the foundation.
The wood or cold-formed steel construction supporting the
masonry veneer shall be designed to limit the deflection to
7 600 of the span for the supporting members. The design of
the wood or cold-formed steel construction shall consider
the weight of the veneer and any other loads.
R703.7.2.1 Support by steel angle. A minimum 6
inches by 4 inches by 5 / 16 inch (152 mm by 102 mm by
8 mm) steel angle, with the long leg placed vertically,
shall be anchored to double 2 inches by 4 inches (51
mm by 102 mm) wood studs at a maximum on-center
spacing of 16 inches (406 mm). Anchorage of the steel
angle at every double stud spacing shall be a minimum
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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of two 7 / 16 inch (1 ] mm) diameter by 4 inch (102 mm)
lag screws. The steel angle shall have a minimum clear-
ance to underlying construction of '/ l6 inch (2 mm). A
minimum of two-thirds the width of the masonry
veneer thickness shall bear on the steel angle. Flashing
and weep holes shall be located in the masonry veneer
wythe in accordance with Figure R703.7.2.1. The max-
imum height of masonry veneer above the steel angle
support shall be 12 feet, 8 inches (3861 mm). The air
space separating the masonry veneer from the wood
backing shall be in accordance with Sections R703.7.4
and R703.7.4.2. The method of support for the masonry
veneer on wood construction shall be constructed in
accordance with Figure R703.7.2.1.
The maximum slope of the roof construction with-
out stops shall be 7:12. Roof construction with slopes
greater than 7:12 but not more than 12:12 shall have
stops of a minimum 3 inch by 3 inch by 7 4 inch (76 mm
by 76 mm by 6 mm) steel plate welded to the angle at
24 inches (610 mm) on center along the angle or as
approved by the building official.
SHEATHING
STUD
STEEL ANGLE
ATTACHED TO STUD
WITH FASTENERS
FASTENERS
BRICK VENEER
VENEER TIE
FLASHING
WEEP HOLE
COUNTERFLASHING
BASE FLASHING
ROOF SHEATHING
ROOF FRAMING
SUPPORT BY STEEL ANGLE
FIGURE R703.7.2.1
EXTERIOR MASONRY VENEER SUPPORT BY STEEL ANGLES
R703.7.2.2 Support by roof construction. A steel
angle shall be placed directly on top of the roof con-
struction. The roof supporting construction for the steel
angle shall consist of a minimum of three 2 inch by 6
inch (51 mm by 152 mm) wood members. The wood
member abutting the vertical wall stud construction
shall be anchored with a minimum of three 5 / s -inch (16
mm) diameter by 5-inch (127 mm) lag screws to every
wood stud spacing. Each additional roof member shall
be anchored by the use of two 1 Od nails at every wood
stud spacing. A minimum of two-thirds the width of the
masonry veneer thickness shall bear on the steel angle.
Flashing and weep holes shall be located in the
masonry veneer wythe in accordance with Figure
R703.7.2.2. The maximum height of the masonry
veneer above the steel angle support shall be 12 feet, 8
inches (3861 mm). The air space separating the
masonry veneer from the wood backing shall be in
accordance with Sections R703.7.4 and R703.7.4.2.
The support for the masonry veneer on wood construc-
tion shall be constructed in accordance with Figure
R703. 7.2.2.
The maximum slope of the roof construction with-
out stops shall be 7:12. Roof construction with slopes
greater than 7:12 but not more than 12:12 shall have
stops of a minimum 3 inch by 3 inch by 7 4 inch (76 mm
by 76 mm by 6 mm) steel plate welded to the angle at
24 inches (610 mm) on center along the angle or as
approved by the building official.
SHEATHING
STUD
STEEL ANGLE
ATTACHED TO STUD
WITH FASTENERS-
FASTENERS
BRICK VENEER
VENEER TIE
FLASHING
WEEP HOLE
COUNTERFLASHING
BASE FLASHING
TRIPLE RAFTERS
ATTACHED TO STUDS
SUPPORT BY ROOF MEMBERS
FIGURE R703.7.2.2
EXTERIOR MASONRY VENEER SUPPORT BY ROOF MEMBERS
R703.7.3 Lintels. Masonry veneer shall not support any
vertical load other than the dead load of the veneer above.
Veneer above openings shall be supported on lintels of
noncombustible materials. The lintels shall have a length
of bearing not less than 4 inches (102 mm). Steel lintels
shall be shop coated with a rust-inhibitive paint, except for
lintels made of corrosion-resistant steel or steel treated
with coatings to provide corrosion resistance. Construc-
tion of openings shall comply with either Section
R703.7.3. lor 703.7.3.2.
R703.7.3.1 Allowable span. The allowable span shall
not exceed the values set forth in Table R703.7.3. 1 .
R703.7.3.2 Maximum span. The allowable span shall
not exceed 18 feet 3 inches (5562 mm) and shall be
constructed to comply with Figure R703.7.3.2 and the
following:
1. Provide a minimum length of 18 inches (457
mm) of masonry veneer on each side of opening
as shown in Figure R703.7.3.2.
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2. Provide a minimum 5-inch by 37 2 -inch by 7,6-
inch (127 mm by 89 mm by 7.9 mm) steel angle
above the opening and shore for a minimum of 7
days after installation.
3. Provide double-wire joint reinforcement extend-
ing 12 inches (305 mm) beyond each side of the
opening. Lap splices of joint reinforcement a
minimum of 12 inches (305 mm). Comply with
one of the following:
3.1. Double- wire joint reinforcement shall be 7 ]6 -
inch (4.8 mm) diameter and shall be placed
in the first two bed joints above the opening.
3.2. Double-wire joint reinforcement shall be 9
gauge (0.144 inch or 3.66 mm diameter) and
shall be placed in the first three bed joints
above the opening.
4. Provide
opening,
the height of masonry veneer above
in accordance with Table R703.7.3.2.
TABLE R703.7.3.2
HEIGHT OF MASONRY VENEER ABOVE OPENING
MINIMUM HEIGHT OF MASONRY
VENEER ABOVE OPENING (INCH)
MAXIMUM HEIGHT OF MASONRY
VENEER ABOVE OPENING (FEET)
13
<5
24
5 to < 12
60
12 to height above support
allowed by Section R703.7
For SI:1 inch = 25.4 mm. 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
R703.7.4 Anchorage. Masonry veneer shall be anchored
to the supporting wall studs with corrosion-resistant metal
ties embedded in mortar or grout and extending into the
veneer a minimum of l7 2 inches (38 mm), with not less
than 5 / 8 -inch (15.9 mm) mortar or grout cover to outside
face. Masonry veneer shall conform to Table R703.7.4.
R703.7.4.1 Size and spacing. Veneer ties, if strand
wire, shall not be less in thickness than No. 9 U.S. gage
[(0.148 inch) (4 mm)] wire and shall have a hook
embedded in the mortar joint, or if sheet metal, shall be
not less than No. 22 U.S. gage by [(0.0299 inch) (0.76
mm)] 7 g inch (22 mm) corrugated. Each tie shall sup-
port not more than 2.67 square feet (0.25 m 2 ) of wall
area and shall be spaced not more than 32 inches (813
mm) on center horizontally and 24 inches (635 mm) on
center vertically.
Exception: In Seismic Design Category D , D, or
D 2 or townhouses in Seismic Design Category C or
in wind areas of more than 30 pounds per square
foot pressure (1.44 kPa), each tie shall support not
more than 2 square feet (0.2 m 2 ) of wall area.
R703.7.4.1.1 Veneer ties around wall openings.
Additional metal ties shall be provided around all
wall openings greater than 16 inches (406 mm) in
either dimension. Metal ties around the perimeter of
openings shall be spaced not more than 3 feet (9144
mm) on center and placed within 12 inches (305
mm) of the wall opening.
MINIMUM HEIGHT OF
MASONRY VENEER
ABOVE OPENING
18 FEET 3 IN. MAX. ALLOWABLE SPAN
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R703.7.3.2
MASONRY VENEER OPENING
TABLE R703.7.3.1
ALLOWABLE SPANS FOR LINTELS SUPPORTING MASONRY VENEER 3 ' bcd
SIZE OF STEEL ANGLE ' cd
(inches)
NO STORY ABOVE
ONE STORY ABOVE
TWO STORIES ABOVE
NO. OF V 2 -INCH OR EQUIVALENT
REINFORCING BARS IN
REINFORCED LINTEL" d
3 x 3 x 7 4
6'-0"
4'-6"
3'-0"
1
4 x 3 x 7 4
8'-0"
6'-0"
4'-6"
I
5x37,x7 l6
lO'-O"
8'-0"
6'-0"
2
6x37 2 xV l6
14'-0"
9'-6"
7'-0"
2
2-6x37,x7 ]6
20'-0"
12'-0"
9'-6"
4
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Long leg of the angle shall be placed in a vertical position.
b. Depth of reinforced lintels shall not be less than 8 inches and all cells of hollow masonry lintels shall be grouted solid. Reinforcing bars shall extend not less
than 8 inches into the support.
c. Steel members indicated are adequate typical examples; other steel members meeting structural design requirements may be used.
d. Either steel angle or reinforced lintel shall span opening.
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TABLE R703.7.4
TIE ATTACHMENT AND AIR SPACE REQUIREMENTS
BACKING AND TIE
MINIMUM TIE
MINIMUM TIE FASTENER"
AIR SPACE
Wood stud backing with
corrugated sheet metaJ
22 U.S. gage
(0.0299 in.) x 7 8 in. wide
8d common nail b
(27 2 in. x 0.131 in.)
Nominal 1 in. between sheathing and veneer
Wood stud backing with
metal strand wire
W1.7(No.9U.S. gage;
0.148 in.) with hook
embedded in mortar joint
8d common nail b
(2'/ 2 in. x 0.131 in.)
Minimum nominal 1 in.
between sheathing and
veneer
Maximum 4'/ 2 in. between
backing and veneer
Cold-formed steel stud
backing with adjustable
metal strand wire
W1.7(No. 9 U.S. gage;
0.148 in.) with hook
embedded in mortar joint
No. 1 screw extending
through the steel framing a
minimum of three exposed
threads
Minimum nominal 1 in.
between sheathing and
veneer
Maximum 4'/ 2 in. between
backing and veneer
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
a. In Seismic Design Category D , D, or D 2 , the minimum tie fastener shall be an 8d ring-shank nail (2'/ 2 in. X 0. 1 3 1 in.) or a No. 1 screw extending through the
steel framing a minimum of three exposed threads.
b. All fasteners shall have rust-inhibitive coating suitable for the installation in which they are being used, or be manufactured from material not susceptible to
R703.7.4.2 Grout fill. As an alternative to the air space
required by Table R703.7.4, grout shall be permitted to
fill the air space. When the air space is filled with grout,
a water-resistive barrier is required over studs or
sheathing. When filling the air space, replacing the
sheathing and water-resistive barrier with a wire mesh
and approved water-resistive barrier or an approved
water-resistive barrier-backed reinforcement attached
directly to the studs is permitted.
R703.7.5 Flashing. Flashing shall be located beneath the
first course of masonry above finished ground level above
the foundation wall or slab and at other points of support,
including structural floors, shelf angles and lintels when
masonry veneers are designed in accordance with Section
R703.7. See Section R703.8 for additional requirements.
R703.7.6 Weepholes. Weepholes shall be provided in the
outside wythe of masonry walls at a maximum spacing of
33 inches (838 mm) on center. Weepholes shall not be less
than 3 / l6 inch (5 mm) in diameter. Weepholes shall be
located immediately above the flashing.
R703.8 Flashing. Approved corrosion-resistant flashing shall
be applied shingle-fashion in a manner to prevent entry of
water into the wall cavity or penetration of water to the build-
ing structural framing components. Self-adhered membranes
used as flashing shall comply with AAMA 711. The flashing
shall extend to the surface of the exterior wall finish.
Approved corrosion-resistant flashings shall be installed at all
of the following locations:
1. Exterior window and door openings. Flashing at exte-
rior window and door openings shall extend to the sur-
face of the exterior wall finish or to the water-resistive
barrier for subsequent drainage. Flashing at exterior
window and door openings shall be installed in accor-
dance with one or more of the following:
1.1. The fenestration manufacturer's installation and
flashing instructions, or for applications not
addressed in the fenestration manufacturer's
instructions, in accordance with the flashing
manufacturer's instructions. Where flashing
instructions or details are not provided, pan
flashing shall be installed at the sill of exterior
window and door openings. Pan flashing shall
be sealed or sloped in such a manner as to direct
water to the surface of the exterior wall finish or
to the water-resistive barrier for subsequent
drainage. Openings using pan flashing shall also
incorporate flashing or protection at the head
and sides.
1 .2. In accordance with the flashing design or
method of a registered design professional.
1.3. In accordance with other approved methods.
2. At the intersection of chimneys or other masonry con-
struction with frame or stucco walls, with projecting
lips on both sides under stucco copings.
3. Under and at the ends of masonry, wood or metal cop-
ings and sills.
4. Continuously above all projecting wood trim.
5. Where exterior porches, decks or stairs attach to a wall
or floor assembly of wood-frame construction.
6. At wall and roof intersections.
7. At built-in gutters.
R703.9 Exterior insulation and finish system (EIFS)/EIFS
with drainage. Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS)
shall comply with this chapter and Sections R703.9.1 and
R703.9.3. EIFS with drainage shall comply with this chapter
and Sections R703.9.2, R703.9.3 and R703.9.4.
R703.9.1 Exterior insulation and finish system (EIFS).
EIFS shall comply with ASTM E 2568.
R703.9.2 Exterior insulation and finish system (EIFS)
with drainage. EIFS with drainage shall comply with
ASTM E 2568 and shall have an average minimum drain-
age efficiency of 90 percent when tested in accordance
with ASTM E 2273.
R703.9.2.1 Water-resistive barrier. The water-resis-
tive barrier shall comply with Section R703.2 or ASTM
E 2570.
R703.9.2.2 Installation. The water-resistive barrier
shall be applied between the EIFS and the wall sheath-
ing.
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R703.9.3 Flashing, general. Flashing of EIFS shall be
provided in accordance with the requirements of Section
R703.8.
R703.9.4 EIFS/EIFS with drainage installation. All
EIFS shall be installed in accordance with the manufac-
turer's installation instructions and the requirements of
this section.
R703.9.4.1 Terminations. The EIFS shall terminate
not less than 6 inches (152 mm) above the finished
ground level.
R703.9.4.2 Decorative trim. Decorative trim shall not
be face nailed though the EIFS.
R703.10 Fiber cement siding.
R703.1.0.1 Panel siding. Fiber-cement panels shall com-
ply with the requirements of ASTM C 1 1 86, Type A, min-
imum Grade II. Panels shall be installed with the long
dimension either parallel or perpendicular to framing. Ver-
tical and horizontal joints shall occur over framing mem-
bers and shall be sealed with caulking, covered with
battens or shall be designed to comply with Section
R703.1. Panel siding shall be installed with fasteners
according to Table R703.4 or approved manufacturer's
installation instructions.
R703.10.2 Lap siding. Fiber-cement lap siding having a
maximum width of 12 inches shall comply with the
requirements of ASTM C 1 186, Type A, minimum Grade
II. Lap siding shall be lapped a minimum of l'/ 4 inches (32
mm) and lap siding not having tongue-and-groove end
joints shall have the ends sealed with caulking, installed
with an H-section joint cover, located over a strip of flash-
ing or shall be designed to comply with Section R703.1.
Lap siding courses may be installed with the fastener
heads exposed or concealed, according to Table R703.4 or
approved manufacturers' installation instructions.
R703.ll Vinyl siding. Vinyl siding shall be certified and
labeled as conforming to the requirements of ASTM D 3679
by an approved quality control agency.
R703.11.1 Installation. Vinyl siding, soffit and accesso-
ries shall be installed in accordance with the manufac-
turer's installation instructions.
R703.11.1.1 Vinyl soffit panels. Soffit panels shall be
individually fastened to a supporting component such
as a nailing strip, fascia or subfascia component or as
specified by the manufacturer's instructions.
R703.11.2 Foam plastic sheathing. Vinyl siding used
with foam plastic sheathing shall be installed in accor-
dance with Section R703.ll. 2.1, R703.ll. 2.2, or
R703.1 1.2.3.
Exception: Where the foam plastic sheathing is applied
directly over wood structural panels, fiberboard, gyp-
sum sheathing or other approved backing capable of
independently resisting the design wind pressure, the
vinyl siding shall be installed in accordance with Sec-
tion R703.1 1.1.
R703.11.2.1 Basic wind speed not exceeding 90 miles
per hour and Exposure Category B. Where the basic
wind speed does not exceed 90 miles per hour (40 m/s),
the Exposure Category is B and gypsum wall board or
equivalent is installed on the side of the wall opposite
the foam plastic sheathing, the minimum siding fas-
tener penetration into wood framing shall be 1 V 4 inches
(32 mm) using minimum 0.120-inch diameter nail
(shank) with a minimum 0.313-inch diameter head, 16
inches on center. The foam plastic sheathing shall be
minimum 7,-inch-thick (12.7 mm) (nominal) extruded
polystyrene per ASTM C 578, 7 2 -inch-thick (12.7 mm)
(nominal) polyisocyanurate per ASTM C 1289, or 1-
inch-thick (25 mm) (nominal) expanded polystyrene
per ASTM C 578.
R703.11.2.2 Basic wind speed exceeding 90 miles per
hour or Exposure Categories C and D. Where the
basic wind speed exceeds 90 miles per hour (40 m/s) or
the Exposure Category is C or D, or all conditions of
Section R703.ll. 2.1 are not met, the adjusted design
pressure rating for the assembly shall meet or exceed
the loads listed in Tables R30 1.2(2) adjusted for height
and exposure using Table R301.2(3). The design wind
pressure rating of the vinyl siding for installation over
solid sheathing as provided in the vinyl siding manu-
facturer's product specifications shall be adjusted for
the following wall assembly conditions:
1 . For wall assemblies with foam plastic sheathing
on the exterior side and gypsum wall board or
equivalent on the interior side of the wall, the
vinyl siding's design wind pressure rating shall
be multiplied by 0.39.
2. For wall assemblies with foam plastic sheathing
on the exterior side and no gypsum wall board or
equivalent on the interior side of wall, the vinyl
siding's design wind pressure rating shall be mul-
tiplied by 0.27.
R703.1 1.2.3 Manufacturer specification. Where the
vinyl siding manufacturer's product specifications pro-
vide an approved design wind pressure rating for instal-
lation over foam plastic sheathing, use of this design
wind pressure rating shall be permitted and the siding
shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's
installation instructions.
R703.12 Adhered masonry veneer installation. Adhered
masonry veneer shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions.
R703.12.1 Clearances. On exterior stud walls, adhered
masonry veneer shall be installed:
1. Minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) above the earth;
2. Minimum of 2 inches (51 mm) above paved areas;
or
3. Minimum of '/-, inch (12 mm) above exterior walk-
ing surfaces which are supported by the same foun-
dation that supports the exterior wall.
R703.12.2 Flashing at foundation. A corrosion-resistant
screed or flashing of a minimum 0.019-inch (0.48 mm) or
26-gage galvanized or plastic with a minimum vertical
attachment flange of 3'/ 2 inches (89 mm) shall be installed
374
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WALL COVERING
to extend a minimum of 1 inch (25 mm) below the founda-
tion plate line on exterior stud walls in accordance with
Section R703.8. The water-resistive barrier, as required by
Table R703.4, Footnote w, shall lap over the exterior of
the attachment flange of the screed or flashing.
201 2 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE® 375
376 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 8
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
SECTION R801
GENERAL
R801.1 Application. The provisions of this chapter shall
control the design and construction of the roof-ceiling system
for all buildings.
R801.2 Requirements. Roof and ceiling construction shall
be capable of accommodating all loads imposed according to
Section R30l and of transmitting the resulting loads to the
supporting structural elements.
R801.3 Roof drainage. In areas where expansive or collaps-
ible soils are known to exist, all dwellings shall have a con-
trolled method of water disposal from roofs that will collect
and discharge roof drainage to the ground surface at least 5
feet (1524 mm) from foundation walls or to an approved
drainage system.
SECTION R802
WOOD ROOF FRAMING
R802.1 Identification. Load-bearing dimension lumber for
rafters, trusses and ceiling joists shall be identified by a grade
mark of a lumber grading or inspection agency that has been
approved by an accreditation body that complies with DOC
PS 20. In lieu of a grade mark, a certificate of inspection
issued by a lumber grading or inspection agency meeting the
requirements of this section shall be accepted.
R802.1.1 Blocking. Blocking shall be a minimum of util-
ity grade lumber.
R802.1.2 End-jointed lumber. Approved end-jointed
lumber identified by a grade mark conforming to Section
R802.1 may be used interchangeably with solid-sawn
members of the same species and grade. End-jointed lum-
ber used in an assembly required elsewhere in this code to
have a fire-resistance rating shall have the designation
"Heat-Resistant Adhesive" or "HRA" included in its grade
mark.
R802.1.3 Fire-retardant-treated wood. Fire-retardant-
treated wood (FRTW) is any wood product which, when
impregnated with chemicals by a pressure process or other
means during manufacture, shall have, when tested in
accordance with ASTM E 84 or UL 723, a listed flame
spread index of 25 or less and shows no evidence of sig-
nificant progressive combustion when the test is continued
for an additional 20-minute period. In addition, the flame
front shall not progress more than 10.5 feet (3200 mm)
beyond the center line of the burners at any time during
the test.
R802.1.3.1 Pressure process. For wood products
impregnated with chemicals by a pressure process, the
process shall be performed in closed vessels under
pressures not less than 50 pounds per square inch gauge
(psig) (344.7 kPa).
R802. 1.3.2 Other means during manufacture. For
wood products produced by other means during manu-
facture the treatment shall be an integral part of the
manufacturing process of the wood product. The treat-
ment shall provide permanent protection to all surfaces
of the wood product.
R802. 1.3.3 Testing. For wood products produced by
other means during manufacture, other than a pressure
process, all sides of the wood product shall be tested in
accordance with and produce the results required in
Section R802.1.3. Testing of only the front and back
faces of wood structural panels shall be permitted.
R802.1.3.4 Labeling. Fire-retardant-treated lumber
and wood structural panels shall be labeled. The label
shall contain:
1. The identification mark of an approved agency in
accordance with Section 1703.5 of the Interna-
tional Building Code.
2. Identification of the treating manufacturer.
3. The name of the fire-retardant treatment.
4. The species of wood treated.
5. Flame spread index and smoke-developed index.
6. Method of drying after treatment.
7. Conformance to applicable standards in accor-
dance with Sections R802.1.3.5 through
R802. 1.3.8.
8. For FRTW exposed to weather, or a damp or wet
location, the words "No increase in the listed
classification when subjected to the Standard
Rain Test" (ASTM D 2898).
R802.1.3.5 Strength adjustments. Design values for
untreated lumber and wood structural panels as speci-
fied in Section R802.1 shall be adjusted for fire-retar-
dant-treated wood. Adjustments to design values shall
be based upon an approved method of investigation
which takes into consideration the effects of the antici-
pated temperature and humidity to which the fire-retar-
dant-treated wood will be subjected, the type of
treatment and redrying procedures.
R802.1.3.5.1 Wood structural panels. The effect
of treatment and the method of redrying after treat-
ment, and exposure to high temperatures and high
humidities on the flexure properties of fire-retar-
dant-treated softwood plywood shall be determined
in accordance with ASTM D 5516. The test data
developed by ASTM D 5516 shall be used to
develop adjustment factors, maximum loads and
spans, or both for untreated plywood design values
in accordance with ASTM D 6305. Each manufac-
turer shall publish the allowable maximum loads
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
377
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
and spans for service as floor and roof sheathing for
their treatment.
R802.1. 3.5.2 Lumber. For each species of wood
treated, the effect of the treatment and the method of
redrying after treatment and exposure to high tem-
peratures and high humidities on the allowable
design properties of fire-retardant-treated lumber
shall be determined in accordance with ASTM D
5664. The test data developed by ASTM D 5664
shall be used to develop modification factors for use
at or near room temperature and at elevated temper-
atures and humidity in accordance with ASTM D
6841. Each manufacturer shall publish the modifica-
tion factors for service at temperatures of not less
than 80°F (27°C) and for roof framing. The roof
framing modification factors shall take into consid-
eration the climatological location.
R802.1.3.6 Exposure to weather. Where fire-retar-
dant-treated wood is exposed to weather or damp or
wet locations, it shall be identified as "Exterior" to
indicate there is no increase in the listed flame spread
index as defined in Section R802.1 .3 when subjected to
ASTM D 2898.
R802.1.3.7 Interior applications. Interior fire-retar-
dant-treated wood shall have a moisture content of not
over 28 percent when tested in accordance with ASTM
D 3201 procedures at 92 percent relative humidity.
Interior fire-retardant-treated wood shall be tested in
accordance with Section R802. 1.3.5.1 or R802. 1.3.5.2.
Interior fire-retardant-treated wood designated as Type
A shall be tested in accordance with the provisions of
this section.
R802.1.3.8 Moisture content. Fire-retardant-treated
wood shall be dried to a moisture content of 19 percent
or less for lumber and 1 5 percent or less for wood struc-
tural panels before use. For wood kiln dried after treat-
ment (KDAT) the kiln temperatures shall not exceed
those used in kiln drying the lumber and plywood sub-
mitted for the tests described in Section R802.1.3.5.1
for plywood and R802.1 .3.5.2 for lumber.
R802.1.4 Structural glued laminated timbers. Glued
laminated timbers shall be manufactured and identified as
required in ANSI/A1TC A190.1 and ASTM D 3737.
R802.1.5 Structural log members. Stress grading of
structural log members of nonrectangular shape, as typi-
cally used in log buildings, shall be in accordance with
ASTM D 3957. Such structural log members shall be iden-
tified by the grade mark of an approved lumber grading or
inspection agency. In lieu of a grade mark on the material,
a certificate of inspection as to species and grade issued by
a lumber-grading or inspection agency meeting the
requirements of this section shall be permitted to be
accepted.
R802.1.6 Structural composite lumber. Structural
capacities for structural composite lumber shall be estab-
lished and monitored in accordance with ASTM D 5456.
R802.2 Design and construction. The framing details
required in Section R802 apply to roofs having a minimum
slope of three units vertical in 12 units horizontal (25-percent
slope) or greater. Roof-ceilings shall be designed and con-
structed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter and
Figures R606.11(l), R606.ll (2) and R606.11(3) or in accor-
dance with AFPA/NDS. Components of roof-ceilings shall be
fastened in accordance with Table R602.3(l).
R802.3 Framing details. Rafters shall be framed to ridge
board or to each other with a gusset plate as a tie. Ridge board
shall be at least l-inch (25 mm) nominal thickness and not
less in depth than the cut end of the rafter. At all valleys and
hips there shall be a valley or hip rafter not less than 2-inch
(51 mm) nominal thickness and not less in depth than the cut
end of the rafter. Hip and valley rafters shall be supported at
the ridge by a brace to a bearing partition or be designed to
carry and distribute the specific load at that point. Where the
roof pitch is less than three units vertical in 1 2 units horizon-
tal (25-percent slope), structural members that support rafters
and ceiling joists, such as ridge beams, hips and valleys, shall
be designed as beams.
R802.3.1 Ceiling joist and rafter connections. Ceiling
joists and rafters shall be nailed to each other in accor-
dance with Table R802.5.1(9), and the rafter shall be
nailed to the top wall plate in accordance with Table
R602.3(l). Ceiling joists shall be continuous or securely
joined in accordance with Table R802.5.1(9) where they
meet over interior partitions and are nailed to adjacent raf-
ters to provide a continuous tie across the building when
such joists are parallel to the rafters.
Where ceiling joists are not connected to the rafters at
the top wall plate, joists connected higher in the attic shall
be installed as rafter ties, or rafter ties shall be installed to
provide a continuous tie. Where ceiling joists are not par-
allel to rafters, rafter ties shall be installed. Rafter ties shall
be a minimum of 2 inches by 4 inches (51 mm by 102
mm) (nominal), installed in accordance with the connec-
tion requirements in Table R802.5.1(9), or connections of
equivalent capacities shall be provided. Where ceiling
joists or rafter ties are not provided, the ridge formed by
these rafters shall be supported by a wall or girder
designed in accordance with accepted engineering prac-
tice.
Collar ties or ridge straps to resist wind uplift shall be
connected in the upper third of the attic space in accor-
dance with Table R602.3(l).
Collar ties shall be a minimum of 1 inch by 4 inches (25
mm by 102 mm) (nominal), spaced not more than 4 feet
(1219 mm) on center.
R802.3.2 Ceiling joists lapped. Ends of ceiling joists
shall be lapped a minimum of 3 inches (76 mm) or butted
over bearing partitions or beams and toenailed to the bear-
ing member. Where ceiling joists are used to provide resis-
tance to rafter thrust, lapped joists shall be nailed together
in accordance with Table R802.5.1(9) and butted joists
shall be tied together in a manner to resist such thrust.
Joists that do not resist thrust shall be permitted to be
nailed in accordance with Table R602.3(l).
378
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
R802.4 Allowable ceiling joist spans. Spans for ceiling
joists shall be in accordance with Tables R802.4(l) and
R802.4(2). For other grades and species and for other loading
conditions, refer to the AF&PA Span Tables for Joists and
Rafters.
R802.5 Allowable rafter spans. Spans for rafters shall be in
accordance with Tables R802.5.1(l) through R802.5.1(8).
For other grades and species and for other loading conditions,
refer to the AF&PA Span Tables for Joists and Rafters. The
span of each rafter shall be measured along the horizontal
projection of the rafter.
R802.5.1 Purlins. Installation of purlins to reduce the
span of rafters is permitted as shown in Figure R802.5.1.
Purlins shall be sized no less than the required size of the
rafters that they support. Purlins shall be continuous and
shall be supported by 2-inch by 4-inch (51 mm by 102
mm) braces installed to bearing walls at a slope not less
than 45 degrees (0.785 rad) from the horizontal. The
braces shall be spaced not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) on
center and the unbraced length of braces shall not exceed 8
feet (2438 mm).
TABLE R802.4(1)
CEILING JOIST SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Uninhabitable attics without storage, live load = 10 psf, L/A = 240)
CEILING JOIST
SPACING (inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 5 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
Maximum ceiling joist spans
(feet - inches)
(feet - inches)
(feet - inches)
(feet - inches)
12
Douglas fir-larch SS
Douglas fir-larch #1
Douglas fir-larch #2
Douglas fir-larch #3
Hem-fir SS
Hem-fir #1
Hem-fir #2
Hem-fir #3
Southern pine SS
Southern pine #1
Southern pine #2
Southern pine #3
Spruce-pine-fir SS
Spruce-pine-fir #1
Spruce-pine-fir #2
Spruce-pine-fir #3
13-2
12-8
12-5
10-10
12-5
12-2
11-7
10-10
12-11
12-8
12-5
11-6
12-2
11-10
11-10
10-10
20-8
19-11
19-6
15-10
19-6
19-1
18-2
15-10
20-3
19-11
19-6
17-0
19-1
18-8
18-8
15-10
Note a
Note a
25-8
20-1
25-8
25-2
24-0
20-1
Note a
Note a
25-8
21-8
25-2
24-7
24-7
20-1
Note a
Note a
Note a
24-6
Note a
Note a
Note a
24-6
Note a
Note a
Note a
25-7
Note a
Note a
Note a
24-6
16
Douglas fir-larch SS
Douglas fir-larch #1
Douglas fir-larch #2
Douglas fir-larch #3
Hem-fir SS
Hem-fir #1
Hem-fir #2
Hem-fir #3
Southern pine SS
Southern pine #1
Southern pine #2
Southern pine #3
Spruce-pine-fir SS
Spruce-pine-fir #1
Spruce-pine-fir #2
Spruce-pine-fir #3
11-11
11-6
1 1-3
9-5
11-3
11-0
10-6
9-5
11-9
11-6
11-3
10-0
11-0
10-9
10-9
9-5
18-9
18-1
17-8
13-9
17-8
17-4
16-6
13-9
18-5
18-1
17-8
14-9
17-4
16-11
16-11
13-9
24-8
23-10
23-0
17-5
23-4
22-10
21-9
17-5
24-3
23-1
23-4
18-9
22-10
22-4
22-4
17-5
Note a
Note a
Note a
21-3
Note a
Note a
Note a
21-3
Note a
Note a
Note a
22-2
Note a
Note a
Note a
21-3
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 6
379
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.4(1)— continued
CEILING JOIST SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Uninhabitable attics without storage, live load = 10 psf, L/A = 240)
CEILING JOIST
SPACING (inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 5 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
Maximum ceiling joist spans
(feet - inches)
(feet - inches)
(feet - inches)
(feet - inches)
Douglas fir-larch
SS
11-3
17-8
23-3
Note a
Douglas fir-larch
#1
10-10
17-0
22-5
Note a
Douglas fir-larch
#2
10-7
16-7
21-0
25-8
Douglas fir-larch
#3
8-7
12-6
15-10
19-5
Hem-fir
SS
10-7
16-8
21-11
Note a
Hem-fir
#1
10-4
16-4
21-6
Note a
Hem-fir
#2
9-11
15-7
20-6
25-3
19.2
Hem-fir
#3
8-7
12-6
15-10
19-5
Southern -pine
SS
11-0
17-4
22-10
Note a
Southern pine
#1
10-10
17-0
22-5
Note a
Southern pine
#2
10-7
16-8
21-11
Note a
Southern pine
#3
9-1
13-6
17-2
20-3
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
10-4
16-4
21-6
Note a
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
10-2
15-11
21-0
25-8
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
10-2
15-11
21-0
25-8
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
8-7
12-6
15-10
19-5
Douglas fir-larch
SS
10-5
16-4
21-7
Note a
Douglas fir-larch
#1
10-0
15-9
20-1
24-6
Douglas fir-larch
#2
9-10
14-10
18-9
22-11
Douglas fir-larch
#3
7-8
11-2
14-2
17-4
Hem-fir
SS
9-10
15-6
20-5
Note a
Hem-fir
#1
9-8
15-2
19-7
23-11
Hem-fir
#2
9-2
14-5
18-6
22-7
24
Hem -fir
#3
7-8
11-2
14-2
17-4
Southern pine
SS
10-3
16-1
21-2
Note a
Southern pine
#1
10-0
15-9
20-10
Note a
Southern pine
#2
9-10
15-6
20-1
23-11
Southern pine
#3
8-2
12-0
15-4
18-1
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
9-8
15-2
19- 11
25-5
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
9-5
14-9
18-9
22-11
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
9-5
14-9
18-9
22-11
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
7-8
11-2
14-2
17-4
Check sources for availability of lumber in lengths greater than 20 feet.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm. I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479kPa.
a. Span exceeds 26 feet in length.
380
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.4(2)
CEILING JOIST SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Uninhabitable attics with limited storage, live load = 20 psf, L/A = 240)
CEILING JOIST
SPACING (inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 10 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
Maximum ceiling joist spans
(feet ■ inches)
(feet - inches)
(feet - inches)
(feet - inches)
Douglas fir-larch
SS
10-5
16-4
21-7
Note a
Douglas fir-larch
#1
10-0
15-9
20-1
24-6
Douglas fir-larch
#2
9-10
14-10
18-9
22-11
Douglas fir-larch
#3
7-8
11-2
14-2
17-4
Hem-fir
SS
9-10
15-6
20-5
Note a
Hem-fir
#1
9-8
15-2
19-7
23-11
Hem-fir
#2
9-2
14-5
18-6
22-7
12
Hem-fir
#3
7-8
11-2
14-2
17-4
Southern pine
SS
10-3
16-1
21-2
Note a
Southern pine
#1
10-0
15-9
20-10
Note a
Southern pine
#2
9-10
15-6
20-1
23-11
Southern pine
#3
8-2
12-0
15-4
18-1
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
9-8
15-2
19-11
25-5
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
9-5
14-9
18-9
22-11
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
9-5
14-9
18-9
22-11
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
7-8
11-2
14-2
17-4
Douglas fir-larch
SS
9-6
14-11
19-7
25-0
Douglas fir-larch
#1
9-1
13-9
17-5
21-3
Douglas fir-larch
#2
8-9
12-10
16-3
19-10
Douglas fir-larch
#3
6-8
9-8
12-4
15-0
Hem-fir
SS
8-11
14-1
18-6
23-8
Hem-fir
#1
8-9
13-5
16-10
20-8
Hem-fir
#2
8-4
12-8
16-0
19-7
Hem-fir
#3
6-8
9-8
12-4
15-0
16
Southern pine
SS
9-4
14-7
19-3
24-7
Southern pine
#1
9-1
14-4
18-11
23-1
Southern pine
#2
8-11
13-6
17-5
20-9
Southern pine
#3
7-1
10-5
13-3
15-8
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
8-9
13-9
18-1
23-1
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
8-7
12-10
16-3
19-10
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
8-7
12-10
16-3
19-10
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
6-8
9-8
12-4
15-0
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
381
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.4(2)— continued
CEILING JOIST SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Uninhabitable attics with limited storage, live load = 20 psf, L/A = 240)
CEILING JOIST
SPACING (inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 1 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
Maximum ceiling joist spans
(feet - inches)
(feet - inches)
(feet - inches)
(feet - inches)
Douglas fir-larch SS
8-11
14-0
18-5
23-4
Douglas fir-larch #1
8-7
12-6
15-10
19-5
Douglas fir-larch #2
8-0
11-9
14-10
18-2
Douglas fir-larch #3
6-1
8-10
11-3
13-8
Hem-fir SS
8-5
13-3
17-5
22-3
Hem-fir #1
8-3
12-3
15-6
18-11
Hem-fir #2
7-10
11-7
14-8
17-10
19.2
Hem-fir #3
6-1
8-10
11-3
13-8
Southern pine SS
8-9
13-9
18-1
23-1
Southern pine #1
8-7
13-6
17-9
21-1
Southern pine #2
8-5
12-3
15-10
18-11
Southern pine #3
6-5
9-6
12-1
14-4
Spruce-pine-fir SS
8-3
12-11
17-1
21-8
Spruce-pine-fir #1
8-0
11-9
14-10
18-2
Spruce-pine-fir #2
8-0
11-9
14-10
18-2
Spruce-pine-fir #3
6-1
8-10
11-3
13-8
Douglas fir-larch SS
8-3
13-0
17-1
20-11
Douglas fir-larch #1
7-8
11-2
14-2
17-4
Douglas fir-larch #2
7-2
10-6
13-3
16-3
Douglas fir-larch #3
5-5
7-11
10-0
12-3
Hem-fir SS
7-10
12-3
16-2
20-6
Hem-fir #1
7-6
10-11
13-10
16-11
Hem-fir #2
7-1
10-4
13-1
16-0
24
Hem-fir #3
5-5
7-11
10-0
12-3
Southern pine SS
8-1
12-9
16-10
21-6
Southern pine #1
8-0
12-6
15-10
18-10
Southern pine #2
7-8
11-0
14-2
16-11
Southern pine #3
5-9
8-6
10-10
12-10
Spruce-pine-fir SS
7-8
12-0
15-10
19-5
Spruce-pine-fir # 1
7-2
10-6
13-3
16-3
Spruce-pine-fir #2
7-2
10-6
13-3
16-3
Spruce-pine-fir #3
5-5
7-11
10-0
12-3
Check sources for availability of lumber in lengths greater than 20 feet.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, ] foot = 304.8 mm, ] pound per square foot = 0.0479kPa.
a. Span exceeds 26 feet in length.
382
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.5.1(1)
RAFTER SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Roof live load=20 psf, ceiling not attached to rafters, L/A = 180)
RAFTER
SPACING
(inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 10 psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x 10
2x12
Maximum rafter spans
a
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
Douglas fir-larch
SS
11-6
18-0
23-9
Noteb
Noteb
11-6
18-0
23-5
Noteb
Noteb
Douglas fir-larch
#1
11-1
17-4
22-5
Noteb
Noteb
10-6
15-4
19-5
23-9
Noteb
Douglas fir-larch
#2
10-10
16-7
21-0
25-8
Noteb
9-10
14-4
18-2
22-3
25-9
Douglas fir-larch
#3
8-7
12-6
15-10
19-5
22-6
7-5
10-10
13-9
16-9
19-6
Hem-fir
SS
10-10
17-0
22-5
Noteb
Noteb
10-10
17-0
22-5
Noteb
Noteb
Hem-fir
#1
10-7
16-8
21-10
Noteb
Noteb
10-3
14-11
18-11
23-2
Noteb
Hem-fir
#2
10-1
15-11
20-8
25-3
Noteb
9-8
14-2
17-11
21-11
25-5
12
Hem-fir
#3
8-7
12-6
15-10
19-5
22-6
7-5
10-10
13-9
16-9
19-6
Southern pine
SS
11-3
17-8
23-4
Noteb
Noteb
11-3
17-8
23-4
Noteb
Noteb
Southern pine
#1
11-1
17-4
22-1.1
Noteb
Noteb
11-1
17-3
21-9
25-10
Noteb
Southern pine
#2
10-10
17-0
22-5
Noteb
Noteb
10-6
15-1
19-5
23-2
Noteb
Southern pine
#3
9-1
13-6
17-2
20-3
24-1
7-11
11-8
14-10
17-6
20-11
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
10-7
16-8
21-11
Noteb
Noteb
10-7
16-8
21-9
Noteb
Noteb
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
10-4
16-3
21-0
25-8
Noteb
9-10
14-4
18-2
22-3
25-9
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
10-4
16-3
21-0
25-8
Noteb
9-10
14-4
18-2
22-3
25-9
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
8-7
12-6
15-10
19-5
22-6
7-5
10-10
13-9
16-9
19-6
Douglas fir-larch
SS
10-5
16-4
21-7
Noteb
Noteb
10-5
16-0
20-3
24-9
Noteb
Douglas fir-larch
#1
10-0
15-4
19-5
23-9
Noteb
9-1
13-3
16-10
20-7
23-10
Douglas fir-larch
#2
9-10
14-4
18-2
22-3
25-9
8-6
12-5
15-9
19-3
22-4
Douglas fir-larch
#3
7-5
10-10
13-9
16-9
19-6
6-5
9-5
11-11
14-6
16-10
Hem-fir
SS
9-10
15-6
20-5
Noteb
Noteb
9-10
15-6
19-11
24-4
Noteb
Hem-fir
#1
9-8
14-11
18-11
23-2
Noteb
8-10
12-11
16-5
20-0
23-3
Hem-fir
#2
9-2
14-2
17-11
21-11
25-5
8-5
12-3
15-6
18-11
22-0
16
Hem-fir
#3
7-5
10-10
13-9
16-9
19-6
6-5
9-5
11-11
14-6
16-10
Southern pine
SS
10-3
16-1
21-2
Noteb
Noteb
10-3
16-1
21-2
Noteb
Noteb
Southern pine
#1
10-0
15-9
20-10
25-10
Noteb
10-0
15-0
18-10
22-4
Noteb
Southern pine
#2
9-10
15-1
19-5
23-2
Noteb
9-1
13-0
16-10
20-1
23-7
Southern pine
#3
7-11
11-8
14-10
17-6
20-1 1
6-10
10-1
12-10
15-2
18-1
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
9-8
15-2
19-11
25-5
Noteb
9-8
14-10
18-10
23-0
Noteb
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
9-5
14-4
18-2
22-3
25-9
8-6
12-5
15-9
19-3
22-4
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
9-5
14-4
18-2
22-3
25-9
8-6
12-5
15-9
19-3
22-4
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
7-5
10-10
13-9
16-9
19-6
6-5
9-5
11-11
14-6
16-10
Douglas fir-larch
SS
9-10
15-5
20-4
25-11
Noteb
9-10
14-7
18-6
22-7
Noteb
Douglas fir-larch
#1
9-5
14-0
17-9
21-8
25-2
8-4
12-2
15-4
18-9
21-9
Douglas fir-larch
#2
8-11
13-1
16-7
20-3
23-6
7-9
11-4
14-4
17-7
20-4
Douglas fir-larch
#3
6-9
9-11
12-7
15-4
17-9
5-10
8-7
10-10
13-3
15-5
Hem-fir
SS
9-3
14-7
19-2
24-6
Noteb
9-3
14-4
18-2
22-3
25-9
Hem-fir
#1
9-1
13-8
17-4
21-1
24-6
8-1
11-10
15-0
18-4
21-3
Hem-fir
#2
8-8
12-11
16-4
20-0
23-2
7-8
11-2
14-2
17-4
20-1
Hem-fir
#3
6-9
9-11
12-7
15-4
17-9
5-10
8-7
10-10
13-3
15-5
19.2
Southern pine
SS
9-8
15-2
19-11
25-5
Noteb
9-8
15-2
19-11
25-5
Noteb
Southern pine
#1
9-5
14-10
19-7
23-7
Noteb
9-3
13-8
17-2
20-5
24-4
Southern pine
#2
9-3
13-9
17-9
21-2
24-10
8-4
11-11
15-4
18-4
21-6
Southern pine
#3
7-3
10-8
13-7
16-0
19-1
6-3
9-3
11-9
13-10
16-6
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
9-1
14-3
18-9
23-11
Noteb
9-1
13-7
17-2
21-0
24-4
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
8-10
13-1
16-7
20-3
23-6
7-9
11-4
14-4
17-7
20-4
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
8-10
13-1
16-7
20-3
23-6
7-9
11-4
14-4
17-7
20-4
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
6-9
9-11
12-7
15-4
17-9
5-10
8-7
10-10
13-3
15-5
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
383
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.5.1(1)— continued
RAFTER SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Roof live load=20 psf, ceiling not attached to rafters, L/A =
180)
RAFTER
SPACING
(inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 10 psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
2x4
2x6 2x8
2x10
2x 12
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
Maximum rafter spans 9
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
24
Douglas fir-larch SS
Douglas fir-larch #1
Douglas fir- larch #2
Douglas fir-larch #3
Hem-fir SS
Hem-fir #1
Hem -fir #2
Hem-fir #3
Southern pine SS
Southern pine #1
Southern pine #2
Southern pine #3
Spruce-pine-fir SS
Spruce-pine-fir #1
Spruce-pine-fir #2
Spruce-pine-fir #3
9-1
8-7
8-0
6-1
8-7
8-4
7-11
6-1
8-11
8-9
8-7
6-5
8-5
8-0
8-0
6-1
14-4
12-6
11-9
8-10
13-6
12-3
11-7
8-10
14-1
13-9
12-3
9-6
13-3
11-9
11-9
8-10
18-10
15-10
14-10
11-3
17-10
15-6
14-8
11-3
18-6
17-9
15-10
12-1
17-5
14-10
14-10
11-3
23-4
19-5
18-2
13-8
22-9
18-11
17-10
13-8
23-8
21-1
18-11
14-4
21-8
18-2
18-2
13-8
Noteb
22-6
21-0
15-11
Noteb
21-11
20-9
15-11
Noteb
25-2
22-2
17-1
25-2
21-0
21-0
15-11
8-11
7-5
6-11
5-3
8-7
7-3
6-10
5-3
8-11
8-3
7-5
5-7
8-4
6-11
6-11
5-3
13-1
10-10
10-2
7-8
12-10
10-7
10-0
7-8
14-1
12-3
10-8
8-3
12-2
10-2
10-2
7-8
16-7
13-9
12-10
9-9
16-3
13-5
12-8
9-9
18-6
15-4
13-9
10-6
15-4
12-10
12-10
9-9
20-3
16-9
15-8
11-10
19-10
16-4
15-6
11-10
22-11
18-3
16-5
12-5
18-9
15-8
15-8
11-10
23-5
19-6
18-3
13-9
23-0
19-0
17-11
13-9
Noteb
21-9
19-3
14-9
21-9
18-3
18-3
13-9
Check sources for availability of lumber in lengths greater than 20 feet.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. The tabulated rafter spans assume that ceiling joists are located at the bottom of the attic space or that some other method of resisting the outward push of the
rafters on the bearing walls, such as rafter ties, is provided at that location. When ceiling joists or rafter ties are located higher in the attic space, the rafter
spans shall be multiplied by the factors given below:
H</Hr
Rafter Span Adjustment Factor
1/3
0.67
1/4
0.76
1/5
0.83
1/6
0.90
1/7.5 or less
1.00
where:
H c = Height of ceiling joists or rafter ties measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls.
H R = Height of roof ridge measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls.
b. Span exceeds 26 feet in length.
384
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.5.1<2)
RAFTER SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Roof live load=20 psf, ceiling attached to rafters, L/A = 240)
RAFTER
SPACING
(inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD =
Opsf
DEAD LOAD =
20 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
Maximum rafter spans
a
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
Douglas fir-larch
SS
10-5
16-4
21-7
Noteb
Noteb
10-5
16-4
21-7
Noteb
Noteb
Douglas fir-larch
#1
10-0
15-9
20-10
Noteb
Noteb
10-0
15-4
19-5
23-9
Noteb
Douglas fir-larch
#2
9-10
15-6
20-5
25-8
Noteb
9-10
14-4
18-2
22-3
25-9
Douglas fir-larch
#3
8-7
12-6
15-10
19-5
22-6
7-5
10-10
13-9
16-9
19-6
Hem-fir
SS
9 10
15-6
20-5
Note b
Noteb
9-10
15-6
20-5
Noteb
Noteb
Hem-fir
#1
9-8
15-2
19-11
25-5
Noteb
9-8
14-1 1
18-11
23-2
Noteb
Hem-fir
#2
9-2
14-5
19-0
24-3
Noteb
9-2
14-2
17-11
21-11
25-5
12
Hem-fir
#3
8-7
12-6
15-10
19-5
22-6
7-5
10-10
13-9
16-9
19-6
Southern pine
SS
10-3
16-1
21-2
Noteb
Noteb
10-3
16-1
21-2
Noteb
Noteb
Southern pine
#1
10-0
15-9
20-10
Noteb
Noteb
10-0
15-9
20-10
25-10
Noteb
Southern pine
#2
9-10
15-6
20-5
Noteb
Noteb
9-10
15-1
19-5
23-2
Noteb
Southern pine
#3
9-1
13-6
17-2
20-3
24-1
7-11
11-8
14-10
17-6
20-11
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
9-8
15-2
19-11
25-5
Noteb
9-8
15-2
19-11
25-5
Noteb
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
9-5
14-9
19-6
24-10
Note b
9-5
14-4
18-2
22-3
25-9
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
9-5
14-9
19-6
24-10
Noteb
9-5
14-4
18-2
22-3
25-9
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
8-7
12-6
15-10
19-5
22-6
7-5
10-10
13-9
16-9
19-6
Douglas fir-larch
SS
9-6
14-11
19-7
25-0
Noteb
9-6
14-11
19-7
24-9
Noteb
Douglas fir-larch
#1
9-1
14-4
18-11
23-9
Noteb
9-1
13-3
16-10
20-7
23-10
Douglas fir-larch
#2
8-11
14-1
18-2
22-3
25-9
8-6
12-5
15-9
19-3
22-4
Douglas fir-larch
#3
7-5
10-10
13-9
16-9
19-6
6-5
9-5
11-11
14-6
16-10
Hem-fir
SS
8-11
14-1
18-6
23-8
Noteb
8-11
14-1
18-6
23-8
Noteb
Hem-fir
#1
8-9
13-9
18-1
23-1
Noteb
8-9
12-11
16-5
20-0
23-3
Hem-fir
#2
8-4
13-1
17-3
21-11
25-5
8-4
12-3
15-6
18-11
22-0
16
Hem-fir
#3
7-5
10-10
13-9
16-9
19-6
6-5
9-5
11-11
14-6
16-10
Southern pine
SS
9-4
14-7
19-3
24-7
Note b
9-4
14-7
19-3
24-7
Noteb
Southern pine
#1
9-1
14-4
18-11
24-1
Noteb
9-1
14-4
18-10
22-4
Noteb
Southern pine
#2
8-11
14-1
18-6
23-2
Noteb
8-11
13-0
16-10
20-1
23-7
Southern pine
#3
7-11
11-8
14-10
17-6
20-11
6-10
10-1
12-10
15-2
18-1
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
8-9
13-9
18-1
23-1
Noteb
8-9
13-9
18-1
23-0
Note b
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
8-7
13-5
17-9
22-3
25-9
8-6
12-5
15-9
19-3
22-4
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
8-7
13-5
17-9
22-3
25-9
8-6
12-5
15-9
19-3
22-4
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
7-5
10-10
13-9
16-9
19-6
6-5
9-5
11-11
14-6
16-10
Douglas fir-larch
SS
8-11
14-0
18-5
23-7
Note b
8-11
14-0
18-5
22-7
Noteb
Douglas fir-larch
#1
8-7
13-6
17-9
21-8
25-2
8-4
12-2
15-4
18-9
21-9
Douglas fir-larch
#2
8-5
13-1
16-7
20-3
23-6
7-9
11-4
14-4
17-7
20-4
19.2
Douglas fir-larch
#3
6-9
9-11
12-7
15-4
17-9
5-10
8-7
10-10
13-3
15-5
Hem-fir
SS
8-5
13-3
17-5
22-3
Noteb
8-5
13-3
17-5
22-3
25-9
Hem-fir
#1
8-3
12-11
17-1
21-1
24-6
8-1
11-10
15-0
18-4
21-3
Hem-fir
#2
7-10
12-4
16-3
20-0
23-2
7-8
11-2
14-2
17-4
20-1
Hem-fir
#3
6-9
9-11
12-7
15-4
17-9
5-10
8-7
10-10
13-3
15-5
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 59
385
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.5.1 (2)— continued
RAFTER SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Roof live !oad=20 psf, ceiling attached to rafters, L/A = 240)
RAFTER
SPACING
(inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 1
psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
Maximum rafter spans
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
Southern pine
SS
8-9
13-9
18-1
23-1
Noteb
8-9
13-9
18-1
23-1
Noteb
Southern pine
#1
8-7
13-6
17-9
22-8
Noteb
8-7
13-6
17-2
20-5
24-4
Southern pine
#2
8-5
13-3
17-5
21-2
24-10
8-4
11-11
15-4
18-4
2I-6
19.2
Southern pine
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
SS
7-3
8-3
10-8
12-11
13-7
17-1
16-0
21-9
19-1
Noteb
6-3
8-3
9-3
12-11
11-9
17-1
13-10
21-0
16-6
24-4
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
8-1
12-8
16-7
20-3
23-6
7-9
11-4
14-4
17-7
20-4
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
8-1
12-8
16-7
20-3
23-6
7-9
11-4
14-4
17-7
20-4
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
6-9
9-11
12-7
15-4
17-9
5-10
8-7
10-10
13-3
15-5
Douglas fir-larch
SS
8-3
13-0
17-2
2 1-10
Noteb
8-3
13-0
16-7
20-3
23-5
Douglas fir-larch
#1
8-0
12-6
15-10
19-5
22-6
7-5
10-10
13-9
16-9
19-6
Douglas fir-larch
#2
7-10
11-9
14-10
18-2
21-0
6-11
10-2
12-10
15-8
18-3
Douglas fir-larch
#3
6-1
8-10
11-3
13-8
15-11
5-3
7-8
9-9
11-10
13-9
Hem-fir
SS
7-10
12-3
16-2
20-8
25-1
7-10
12-3
16-2
19-10
23-0
Hem-fir
#1
7-8
12-0
15-6
18-11
21-11
7-3
10-7
13-5
16-4
19-0
Hem-fir
#2
7-3
11-5
14-8
17-10
20-9
6-10
10-0
12-8
15-6
17-11
Hem-fir
#3
6-1
8-10
11-3
13-8
15-11
5-3
7-8
9-9
11-10
13-9
24
Southern pine
SS
8-1
12-9
16-10
21-6
Noteb
8-1
12-9
16-10
21-6
Noteb
Southern pine
#1
8-0
12-6
16-6
21-1
25-2
8-0
12-3
15-4
18-3
21-9
Southern pine
#2
7-10
12-3
15-10
18-11
22-2
7-5
10-8
13-9
16-5
19-3
Southern pine
#3
6-5
9-6
12-1
14-4
17-1
5-7
8-3
10-6
12-5
14-9
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
7-8
12-0
15-10
20-2
24-7
7-8
12-0
15-4
18-9
21-9
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
7-6
11-9
14-10
18-2
21-0
6-11
10-2
12-10
15-8
18-3
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
7-6
11-9
14-10
18-2
21-0
6-11
10-2
12-10
15-8
18-3
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
6-1
8-10
11-3
13-8
15-11
5-3
7-8
9-9
11-10
13-9
Check sources for availability of lumber in lengths greater than 20 feet.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. The tabulated rafter spans assume that ceiling joists are located at the bottom of the attic space or that some other method of resisting the outward push of the
rafters on the bearing walls, such as rafter ties, is provided at that location. When ceiling joists or rafter ties are located higher in the attic space, the rafter
spans shall be multiplied by the factors given below:
H</H„
Rafter Span Adjustment Factor
1/3
0.67
1/4
0.76
1/5
0.83
1/6
0.90
1/7.5 or less
1.00
where:
W c = Height of ceiling joists or rafter ties measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls.
H R - Height of roof ridge measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls.
b. Span exceeds 26 feet in length.
386
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.5.1(3)
RAFTER SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Ground snow ioad=30 psf, ceiling not attached to rafters, L/A = 1
80)
RAFTER
SPACING
(inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 10 psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
Maximum rafter spans' 1
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
Douglas fir-larch
SS
10-0
15-9
20-9
Noteb
Noteb
10-0
15-9
20-1
24-6
Noteb
Douglas fir-larch
#1
9-8
14-9
18-8
22-9
Noteb
9-0
13-2
16-8
20-4
23-7
Douglas fir-larch
#2
9-5
13-9
17-5
21-4
24-8
8-5
12-4
15-7
19-1
22-1
Douglas fir-larch
#3
7-1
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
6-4
9-4
11-9
14-5
16-8
Hem-fir
SS
9-6
14-10
19-7
25-0
Noteb
9-6
14-10
19-7
24-1
Noteb
Hem-fir
#1
9-3
14-4
18-2
22-2
25-9
8-9
12-10
16-3
19-10
23-0
Hem-fir
#2
8-10
13-7
17-2
21-0
24-4
8-4
12-2
15-4
18-9
21-9
12
Hem-fir
#3
7-1
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
6-4
9-4
11-9
14-5
16-8
Southern pine
SS
9-10
15-6
20-5
Noteb
Noteb
9-10
15-6
20-5
Noteb
Noteb
Southern pine
#1
9-8
15-2
20-0
24-9
Noteb
9-8
14-10
18-8
22-2
Noteb
Southern pine
#2
9-6
14-5
18-8
22-3
Noteb
9-0
12-11
16-8
19-11
23-4
Southern pine
#3
7-7
11-2
14-3
16-10
20-0
6-9
10-0
12-9
15-1
17-11
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
9-3
14-7
19-2
24-6
Noteb
9-3
14-7
18-8
22-9
Noteb
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
9-1
13-9
17-5
21-4
24-8
8-5
12-4
15-7
19-1
22-1
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
9-1
13-9
17-5
21-4
24-8
8-5
12-4
15-7
19-1
22-1
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
7-1
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
6-4
9-4
11-9
14-5
16-8
Douglas fir-larch
SS
9-1
14-4
18-10
23-9
Noteb
9-1
13-9
17-5
21-3
24-8
Douglas fir-larch
#1
8-9
12-9
16-2
19-9
22-10
7-10
11-5
14-5
17-8
20-5
Douglas fir-larch
#2
8-2
11-11
15-1
18-5
21-5
7-3
10-8
13-6
16-6
19-2
Douglas fir-larch
#3
6-2
9-0
11-5
13-11
16-2
5-6
8-1
10-3
12-6
14-6
Hem-fir
SS
8-7
13-6
17-10
22-9
Noteb
8-7
13-6
17-1
20-10
24-2
Hem-fir
#1.
8-5
12-5
15-9
19-3
22-3
7-7
11-1
14-1
17-2
19-11
Hem-fir
#2
8-0
11-9
14-11
18-2
21-1
7-2
10-6
13-4
16-3
18-10
16
Hem-fir
#3
6-2
9-0
11-5
13-11
16-2
5-6
8-1
10-3
12-6
14-6
Southern pine
SS
8-11
14-1
18-6
23-8
Noteb
8-11
14-1
18-6
23-8
Noteb
Southern pine
#1
8-9
13-9
18-1
21-5
25-7
8-8
12-10
16-2
19-2
22-10
Southern pine
#2
8-7
12-6
16-2
19-3
22-7
7-10
11-2
14-5
17-3
20-2
Southern pine
#3
6-7
9-8
12-4
14-7
17-4
5-10
8-8
11-0
13-0
15-6
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
8-5
13-3
17-5
22-1
25-7
8-5
12-9
16-2
19-9
22-10
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
8-2
11-11
15-1
18-5
21-5
7-3
10-8
13-6
16-6
19-2
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
8-2
11-11
15-1
18-5
21-5
7-3
10-8
13-6
16-6
19-2
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
6-2
9-0
11-5
13-11
16-2
5-6
8-1
10-3
12-6
14-6
Douglas fir-larch
SS
8-7
13-6
17-9
21-8
25-2
8-7
12-6
15-10
19-5
22-6
Douglas fir-larch
#1
7-11
11-8
14-9
18-0
20-11
7-1
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
Douglas fir-larch
#2
7-5
10-11
13-9
16-10
19-6
6-8
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
19.2
Douglas fir-larch
Hem-fir
#3
SS
5-7
8-1
8-3
12-9
10-5
16-9
12-9
21-4
14-9
24-8
5-0
8-1
7-4
12-4
9-4
15-7
11-5
19-1
13-2
22-1
Hem-fir
#1
7-9
11-4
14-4
17-7
20-4
6-11
10-2
12-10
15-8
18-2
Hem-fir
#2
7-4
10-9
13-7
16-7
19-3
6-7
9-7
12-2
14-10
17-3
Hem-fir
#3
5-7
8-3
10-5
12-9
14-9
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
387
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.5.1 (3)— continued
RAFTER SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Ground snow load=30 psf, ceiling not attached to rafters, L/A = 180)
RAFTER
SPACING
(inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 10 psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
r
maximum rafter spans
a
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
Southern pine
SS
8-5
13-3
17-5
22-3
Noteb
8-5
13-3
17-5
22-0
25-9
Southern pine
#1
8-3
13-0
16-6
19-7
23-4
7-11
11-9
14-9
17-6
20-11
Southern pine
#2
7-11
11-5
14-9
17-7
20-7
7-1
10-2
13-2
15-9
18-5
19.2
Southern pine
#3
6-0
8-10
11-3
13-4
15-10
5-4
7-11
10-1
11-11
14-2
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
7-11
12-5
16-5
20-2
23-4
7-1 1
11-8
14-9
18-0
20-11
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
7-5
10-11
13-9
16-10
19-6
6-8
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
7-5
10-11
13-9
16-10
19-6
6-8
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
5-7
8-3
10-5
12-9
14-9
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
Douglas fir-larch
SS
7-11
12-6
15-10
19-5
22-6
7-8
11-3
14-2
17-4
20-1
Douglas fir-larch
#1
7-1
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
6-4
9-4
11-9
14-5
16-8
Douglas fir-larch
#2
6-8
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
5-11
8-8
11-0
13-6
15-7
Douglas fir-larch
#3
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
4-6
6-7
8-4
10-2
11-10
Hem -fir
SS
7-6
11-10
15-7
19-1
22-1
7-6
11-0
13-11
17-0
19-9
Hem-fir
#1
6-11
10-2
12-10
15-8
18-2
6-2
9-1
11-6
14-0
16-3
Hem -fir
#2
6-7
9-7
12-2
14-10
17-3
5-10
8-7
10-10
13-3
15-5
24
Hem-fir
#3
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
4-6
6-7
8-4
10-2
11-10
Southern pine
SS
7-10
12-3
16-2
20-8
25-1
7-10
12-3
16-2
19-8
23-0
Southern pine
#1
7-8
11-9
14-9
17-6
20-1 1
7-1
10-6
13-2
15-8
18-8
Southern pine
#2
7-1
10-2
13-2
15-9
18-5
6-4
9-2
11-9
14-1
16-6
Southern pine
#3
5-4
7-11
10-1
11-11
14-2
4-9
7-1
9-0
10-8
12-8
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
7-4
11-7
14-9
18-0
20-11
7-1
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
6-8
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
5-11
8-8
11-0
13-6
15-7
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
6-8
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
5-11
8-8
11-0
13-6
15-7
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
4-6
6-7
8-4
10-2
11-10
Check sources for availability of lumber in lengths greater than 20 feet.
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. The tabulated rafter spans assume that ceiling joists are located at the bottom of the attic space or th;
rafters on the bearing walls, such as rafter ties, is provided at that location. When ceiling joists or
spans shall be multiplied by the factors given below:
it some other method of resisting (he outward push of the
rafter ties are located higher in the attic space, the rafter
HJH„
Rafter Span Adjustment Factor
1/3
0.67
1/4
0.76
1/5
0.83
1/6
0.90
1/7.5 or less
1.00
where:
H c = Height of ceiling joists or rafter ties measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls.
H B = Height of roof ridge measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls.
b. Span exceeds 26 feet in length.
388
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLER802.5.1(4)
RAFTER SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Ground snow load=50 psf, ceiling not attached to rafters, L/A :
180)
RAFTER
SPACING
(inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 10 psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
Maximum rafter spans
a
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
Douglas fir-larch
SS
8-5
13-3
17-6
22-4
26-0
8-5
13-3
17-0
20-9
24-0
Douglas fir-larch
#1
8-2
12-0
15-3
18-7
21-7
7-7
11-2
14-1
17-3
20-0
Douglas fir-larch
#2
7-8
11-3
14-3
17-5
20-2
7-1
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
Douglas fir-larch
#3
5-10
8-6
10-9
13-2
15-3
5-5
7-10
10-0
12-2
14-1
Hem-fir
SS
8-0
12-6
16-6
21-1
25-6
8-0
12-6
16-6
20-4
23-7
Hem-fir
#1
7-10
11-9
14-10
18-1
21-0
7-5
10-10
13-9
16-9
19-5
Hem-fir
#2
7-5
11-1
14-0
17-2
19-11
7-0
10-3
13-0
15-10
18-5
12
Hem-fir
#3
5-10
8-6
10-9
13-2
15-3
5-5
7-10
10-0
12-2
14-1
Southern pine
SS
8-4
13-0
17-2
21-11
Noteb
8-4
13-0
17-2
21-11
Noteb
Southern pine
#1
8-2
12-10
16-10
20-3
24-1
8-2
12-6
15-9
18-9
22-4
Southern pine
#2
8-0
11-9
15-3
18-2
21-3
7-7
10-11
14-1
16-10
19-9
Southern pine
#3
6-2
9-2
11-8
13-9
16-4
5-9
8-5
10-9
12-9
15-2
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
7-10
12-3
16-2
20-8
24-1
7-10
12-3
15-9
19-3
22-4
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
7-8
11-3
14-3
17-5
20-2
7-1
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
7-8
11-3
14-3
17-5
20-2
7-1
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
5-10
8-6
10-9
13-2
15-3
5-5
7-10
10-0
12-2
14-1
Douglas fir-larch
SS
7-8
12-1
15-10
19-5
22-6
7-8
11-7
14-8
17-11
20-10
Douglas fir-larch
#1
7-1
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
6-7
9-8
12-2
14-11
17-3
Douglas fir-larch
#2
6-8
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
6-2
9-0
11-5
13-11
16-2
Dougias fir-larch
#3
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
4-8
6-10
8-8
10-6
12-3
Hem-fir
SS
7-3
11-5
15-0
19-1
22-1
7-3
11-5
14-5
17-8
20-5
Hem-fir
#1
6-11
10-2
12-10
15-8
18-2
6-5
9-5
11-11
14-6
16-10
Hem-fir
#2
6-7
9-7
12-2
14-10
17-3
6-1
8-11
11-3
13-9
15-11
16
Hem-fir
#3
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
4-8
6-10
8-8
10-6
12-3
Southern pine
SS
7-6
11-10
15-7
19-11
24-3
7-6
11-10
15-7
19-11
23-10
Southern pine
#1
7-5
11-7
14-9
17-6
20-11
7-4
10-10
13-8
16-2
19-4
Southern pine
#2
7-1
10-2
13-2
15-9
18-5
6-7
9-5
12-2
14-7
17-1
Southern pine
#3
5-4
7-11
10-1
11-11
14-2
4-11
7-4
9-4
11-0
13-1
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
7-1
11-2
14-8
18-0
20-11
7-1
10-9
13-8
15-11
19-4
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
6-8
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
6-2
9-0
1 1-5
13-11
16-2
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
6-8
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
6-2
9-0
11-5
13-11
16-2
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
4-8
6-10
8-8
10-6
12-3
Douglas fir-larch
SS
7-3
11-4
14-6
17-8
20-6
7-3
10-7
13-5
16-5
19-0
Douglas fir-larch
#1
6-6
9-6
12-0
14-8
17-1
6-0
8-10
11-2
13-7
15-9
Douglas fir-larch
#2
6-1
8-11
11-3
13-9
15-11
5-7
8-3
10-5
12-9
14-9
19.2
Douglas fir-iarch
Hem-fir
#3
SS
4-7
6-10
6-9
10-9
8-6
14-2
10-5
17-5
12-1
20-2
4-3
6-10
6-3
10-5
7-11
13-2
9-7
16-1
11-2
18-8
Hem-fir
#1
6-4
9-3
11-9
14-4
16-7
5-10
8-7
10-10
13-3
15-5
Hem-fir
#2
6-0
8-9
11-1
13-7
15-9
5-7
8-1
10-3
12-7
14-7
Hem-fir
#3
4-7
6-9
8-6
10-5
12-1
4-3
6-3
7-11
9-7
11-2
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
389
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLER802.5.1(4)
RAFTER SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Ground snow load=50 psf, ceiling not attached to rafters, L/A = 180)
RAFTER
SPACING
(inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 10 psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
Maximum rafter spans'
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
19.2
Southern pine SS
Southern pine #1
Southern pine #2
Southern pine #3
Spruce-pine-fir SS
Spruce-pine-fir #1
Spruce-pine-fir #2
Spruce-pine-fir #3
7-1
7-0
6-6
4-11
6-8
6-1
6-1
4-7
11-2
10-8
9-4
7-3
10-6
8-11
8-11
6-9
14-8
13-5
12-0
9-2
1.3-5
11-3
11-3
8-6
18-9
16-0
14-4
10-10
16-5
13-9
13-9
10-5
22-10
19-1
16-10
12-11
19-1
15-11
15-11
12-1
7-1
6-8
6-0
4-6
6-8
5-7
5-7
4-3
11-2
9-11
8-8
6-8
9-10
8-3
8-3
6-3
14-8
12-5
11-2
8-6
12-5
10-5
10-5
7-11
18 7
14-10
13-4
10-1
15-3
12-9
12-9
9-7
21-9
17-8
15-7
12-0
17-8
14-9
14-9
11-2
24
Douglas fir-larch SS
Douglas fir-larch #1
Douglas fir-larch #2
Douglas fir-larch #3
Hem-fir SS
Hem-fir #1
Hem-fir #2
Hem-fir #3
Southern pine SS
Southern pine #1
Southern pine #2
Southern pine #3
Spruce-pine-fir SS
Spruce-pine-fir #1
Spruce-pine-fir #2
Spruce-pine-fir #3
6-8
5-10
5-5
4-1
6-4
5-8
5-4
4-1
6-7
6-5
5-10
4-4
6-2
5-5
5-5
4-1
10-
8-6
7-11
6-0
9-11
8-3
7-10
6-0
10-4
9-7
8-4
6-5
9-6
7-11
7-11
6-0
13-0
10-9
10-1
7-7
12-9
10-6
9-11
7-7
13-8
12-0
10-9
8-3
12-0
10-1
10-1
7-7
15-10
13-2
12-4
9-4
15-7
12-10
12-1
9-4
17-5
14-4
12-10
9-9
14-8
12-4
12-4
9-4
18-4
15-3
14-3
10-9
18-0
14-10
14-1
10-9
21-0
17-1
15-1
11-7
17-1
14-3
14-3
10-9
6-6
5-5
5-0
3-10
6-4
5-3
4-11
3-10
6-7
6-0
5-5
4-1
6-0
5-0
5-0
3-10
9-6
7-10
7-4
5-7
9-4
7-8
7-3
5-7
10-4
8-10
7-9
6-0
8-10
7-4
7-4
5-7
12-0
10-0
9-4
7-1
11-9
9-9
9-2
7-1
13-8
11-2
10-0
7-7
11-2
9-4
9-4
7-1
14-8
12-2
11-5
8-7
14-5
11-10
11-3
8-7
16-7
13-3
11-11
9-0
13-7
11-5
11-5
8-7
17-0
14-1
13-2
10-0
16-8
13-9
13-0
10-0
19-5
15-9
13-11
10-8
15-9
13-2
13-2
10-0
Check sources for availability of lumber in lengths greater than 20 feet.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa
a. The tabulated rafter spans assume that ceiling joists are located at the bottom of the attic space or that some other method of resisting the outward push of the
rafters on the bearing walls, such as rafter ties, is provided at that location. When ceiling joists or rafter ties are located higher in the attic space, the rafter
spans shall be multiplied by the factors given below:
»Jh*
Rafter Span Adjustment Factor
1/3
0.67
1/4
0.76
1/5
0.83
1/6
0.90
1/7.5 or less
1.00
where:
H c - Height of ceiling joists or rafter ties measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls.
H K = Height of roof ridge measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls.
b. Span exceeds 26 feet in length.
390
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLER802.5.1(5)
RAFTER SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Ground snow load=30 psf, ceiling attached to rafters, L/A = 240)
RAFTER
DEAD LOAD = 10 psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
SPACING
(inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
Maximum rafter spans 3
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
Douglas fir-larch
SS
9-1
14-4
18-10
24-1
Noteb
9-1
14-4
18-10
24-1
Noteb
Douglas fir-larch
#1
8-9
13-9
18-2
22-9
Noteb
8-9
13-2
16-8
20-4
23-7
Douglas fir-larch
#2
8-7
13-6
17-5
21-4
24-8
8-5
12-4
15-7
19-1
22-1
Douglas fir-larch
#3
7-1
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
6-4
9-4
11-9
14-5
16-8
Hem-fir
SS
8-7
13-6
17-10
22-9
Noteb
8-7
13-6
17-10
22-9
Noteb
Hem-fir
#1
8-5
13-3
17-5
22-2
25-9
8-5
12-10
16-3
19-10
23-0
Hem-fir
#2
8-0
12-7
16-7
21-0
24-4
8-0
12-2
15-4
18-9
21-9
12
Hem-fir
#3
7-1
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
6-4
9-4
11-9
14-5
16-8
Southern pine
SS
8-11
14-1
18-6
23-8
Noteb
8-11
14-1
18-6
23-8
Noteb
Southern pine
#1
8-9
13-9
18-2
23-2
Noteb
8-9
13-9
18-2
22-2
Noteb
Southern pine
#2
8-7
13-6
17-10
22-3
Noteb
8-7
12-11
16-8
19-11
23-4
Southern pine
#3
7-7
11-2
14-3
16-10
20-0
6-9
10-0
12-9
15-1
17-11
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
8-5
13-3
17-5
22-3
Noteb
8-5
13-3
17-5
22-3
Noteb
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
8-3
12-11
17-0
21-4
24-8
8-3
12-4
15-7
19-1
22-1
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
8-3
12-11
17-0
21-4
24-8
8-3
12-4
15-7
19-1
22-1
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
7-1
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
6-4
9-4
11-9
14-5
16-8
Douglas fir-larch
SS
8-3
13-0
17-2
21-10
Noteb
8-3
13-0
17-2
21-3
24-8
Douglas fir-larch
#1
8-0
12-6
16-2
19-9
22-10
7-10
11-5
14-5
17-8
20-5
Douglas fir-larch
#2
7-10
11-11
15-1
18-5
21-5
7-3
10-8
13-6
16-6
19-2
Douglas fir-larch
#3
6-2
9-0
11-5
13-11
16-2
5-6
8-1
10-3
12-6
14-6
Hem-fir
SS
7-10
12-3
16-2
20-8
25-1
7-10
12-3
16-2
20-8
24-2
Hem-fir
#1
7-8
12-0
15-9
19-3
22-3
7-7
11-1
14-1
17-2
19-11
Hem-fir
#2
7-3
11-5
14-11
18-2
21-1
7-2
10-6
13-4
16-3
18-10
16
Hem-fir
#3
6-2
9-0
11-5
13-11
16-2
5-6
8-1
10-3
12-6
14-6
Southern pine
SS
8-1
12-9
16-10
21-6
Noteb
8-1
12-9
16-10
21-6
Noteb
Southern pine
#1
8-0
12-6
16-6
21-1
25-7
8-0
12-6
16-2
19-2
22-10
Southern pine
#2
7-10
12-3
16-2
19-3
22-7
7-10
11-2
14-5
17-3
20-2
Southern pine
#3
6-7
9-8
12-4
14-7
17-4
5-10
8-8
11-0
13-0
15-6
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
7-8
12-0
15-10
20-2
24-7
7-8
12-0
15-10
19-9
22-10
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
7-6
11-9
15-1
18-5
21-5
7-3
10-8
13-6
16-6
19-2
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
7-6
11-9
15-1
18-5
21-5
7-3
10-8
13-6
16-6
19-2
Spruce-pi ne-fir
#3
6-2
9-0
11-5
13-11
16-2
5-6
8-1
10-3
12-6
14-6
Douglas fir-larch
SS
7-9
12-3
16-1
20-7
25-0
7-9
12-3
15-10
19-5
22-6
Douglas fir-larch
#1
7-6
11-8
14-9
18-0
20-11
7-1
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
Douglas fir-larch
#2
7-4
10-11
13-9
16-10
19-6
6-8
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
19.2
Douglas fir-larch
#3
5-7
8-3
10-5
12-9
14-9
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
Hem-fir
SS
7-4
11-7
15-3
19-5
23-7
7-4
11-7
15-3
19-1
22-1
Hem-fir
#1
7-2
11-4
14-4
17-7
20-4
6-11
10-2
12-10
15-8
18-2
Hem-fir
#2
6-10
10-9
13-7
16-7
19-3
6-7
9-7
12-2
14-10
17-3
Hem-fir
#3
5-7
8-3
10-5
12-9
14-9
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
391
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.5.1 (5)— continued
RAFTER SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Ground snow load=30 psf, ceiling attached to rafters, L/A = 240)
RAFTER
SPACING
(inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 10 psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
Maximum rafter spans
a
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
Southern pine
SS
7-8
12-0
15-10
20-2
24-7
7-8
12-0
15-10
20-2
24-7
Southern pine
#1
7-6
11-9
15-6
19-7
23-4
7-6
11-9
14-9
17-6
20-1 1
Southern pine
#2
7-4
11-5
14-9
17-7
20-7
7-1
10-2
13-2
15-9
18-5
19.2
Southern pine
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
SS
6-0
7-2
8-10
11-4
11-3
14-11
13-4
19-0
15-10
23-1
5-4
7-2
7-11
11-4
10-1
14-9
11-11
18-0
14-2
20-11
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
7-0
10-11
13-9
16-10
19-6
6-8
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
7-0
10-11
13-9
16-10
19-6
6-8
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
5-7
8-3
10-5
12-9
14-9
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
Douglas fir-larch
SS
7-3
11-4
15-0
19-1
22-6
7-3
11-3
14-2
17-4
20-1
Douglas fir-larch
#1
7-0
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
6-4
9-4
11-9
14-5
16-8
Douglas fir-larch
#2
6-8
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
5-11
8-8
11-0
13-6
15-7
Douglas fir-larch
#3
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
4-6
6-7
8-4
10-2
11-10
Hem-fir
SS
6-10
10-9
14-2
18-0
21-11
6-10
10-9
13-11
17-0
19-9
Hem-fir
#1
6-8
10-2
12-10
15-8
18-2
6-2
9-1
11-6
14-0
16-3
Hem-fir
#2
6-4
9-7
12-2
14-10
17-3
5-10
8-7
10-10
13-3
15-5
24
Hem-fir
#3
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
4-6
6-7
8-4
10-2
11-10
Southern pine
SS
7-1
11-2
14-8
18-9
22-10
7-1
11-2
14-8
18-9
22-10
Southern pine
#1
7-0
10-11
14-5
17-6
20-11
7-0
10-6
13-2
15-8
18-8
Southern pine
#2
6-10
10-2
13-2
15-9
18-5
6-4
9-2
11-9
14-1
16-6
Southern pine
#3
5-4
7-11
10-1
11-11
14-2
4-9
7-1
9-0
10-8
12-8
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
6-8
10-6
13-10
17-8
20-11
6-8
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
6-6
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
5-11
8-8
11-0
13-6
15-7
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
6-6
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
5-11
8-8
11-0
13-6
15-7
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
4-6
6-7
8-4
10-2
11-10
Check sources for availability of lumber in lengths greater than 20 feet.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. The tabulated rafter spans assume that ceiling joists are located at the bottom of the attic space or that some other method of resisting the outward push of the
rafters on the bearing walls, such as rafter ties, is provided at that location. When ceiling joists or rafter ties are located higher in the attic space, the rafter
spans shall be multiplied by the factors given below:
«^„
Rafter Span Adjustment Factor
1/3
0.67
1/4
0.76
1/5
0.83
1/6
0.90
1/7.5 or less
1.00
where:
H c = Height of ceiling joists or rafter ties measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls
H K = Height of roof ridge measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls.
b. Span exceeds 26 feet in length.
392
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.5.1(6)
RAFTER SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Ground snow load=50 psf, ceiling attached to rafters, L/A = 240)
RAFTER
SPACING
(inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 10 psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
Maximum rafter spans'
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
Douglas fir-larch
SS
7-8
12-1
15-11
20-3
24-8
7-8
12-1
15-11
20-3
24-0
Douglas fir-larch
#1
7-5
11-7
15-3
18-7
21-7
7-5
11-2
14-1
17-3
20-0
Douglas fir-larch
#2
7-3
11-3
14-3
17-5
20-2
7-1
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
Douglas fir-larch
#3
5-10
8-6
10-9
13-2
15-3
5-5
7-10
10-0
12-2
14-1
Hem-fir
SS
7-3
11-5
15-0
19-2
23-4
7-3
11-5
15-0
19-2
23-4
Hem-fir
#1
7-1
11-2
14-8
18-1
21-0
7-1
10-10
13-9
16-9
19-5
Hem-fir
#2
6-9
10-8
14-0
17-2
19-11
6-9
10-3
13-0
15-10
18-5
12
Hem-fir
#3
5-10
8-6
10-9
1 3-2
15-3
5-5
7-10
10-0
12-2
14-1
Southern pine
SS
7-6
11-10
15-7
19-11
24-3
7-6
11-10
15-7
19-11
24-3
Southern pine
#1
7-5
11-7
15-4
19-7
23-9
7-5
11-7
15-4
18-9
22-4
Southern pine
#2
7-3
11-5
15-0
18-2
21-3
7-3
10-11
14-1
16-10
19-9
Southern pine
#3
6-2
9-2
11-8
13-9
16-4
5-9
8-5
10-9
12-9
15-2
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
7-1
11-2
14-8
18-9
22-10
7-1
11-2
14-8
18-9
22-4
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
6-11
10-11
14-3
17-5
20-2
6-11
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
6-11
10-11
14-3
17-5
20-2
6-11
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
5-10
8-6
10-9
13-2
15-3
5-5
7-10
10-0
12-2
14-1
Douglas fir-larch
SS
7-0
11-0
14-5
18-5
22-5
7-0
11-0
14-5
17-11
20-10
Douglas fir-larch
#1
6-9
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
6-7
9-8
12-2
14-11
17-3
Douglas fir-larch
#2
6-7
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
6-2
9-0
11-5
13-11
16-2
Douglas fir-larch
#3
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
4-8
6-10
8-8
10-6
12-3
Hem-fir
SS
6-7
10-4
13-8
17-5
21-2
6-7
10-4
13-8
17-5
20-5
Hem-fir
#1
6-5
10-2
12-10
15-8
18-2
6-5
9-5
11-11
14-6
16-10
Hem-fir
#2
6-2
9-7
12-2
14-10
17-3
6-1
8-11
11-3
13-9
15-11
16
Hem-fir
#3
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
4-8
6-10
8-8
10-6
12-3
Southern pine
SS
6-10
10-9
14-2
18-1
22-0
6-10
10-9
14-2
18-1
22-0
Southern pine
#1
6-9
10-7
13-11
17-6
20-11
6-9
10-7
13-8
16-2
19-4
Southern pine
#2
6-7
10-2
13-2
15-9
18-5
6-7
9-5
12-2
14-7
17-1
Southern pine
#3
5-4
7-11
10-1
11-11
14-2
4-11
7-4
9-4
11-0
13-1
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
6-5
10-2
13-4
17-0
20-9
6-5
10-2
13-4
16-8
19-4
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
6-4
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
6-2
9-0
11-5
13-11
16-2
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
6-4
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
6-2
9-0
11-5
13-11
16-2
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
4-8
6-10
8-8
10-6
12-3
Douglas fir-larch
SS
6-7
10-4
13-7
17-4
20-6
6-7
10-4
13-5
16-5
19-0
Douglas fir-larch
#1
6-4
9-6
12-0
14-8
17-1
6-0
8-10
11-2
13-7
15-9
Douglas fir-larch
#2
6-1
8-11
11-3
13-9
15-11
5-7
8-3
10-5
12-9
14-9
19.2
Douglas fir-larch
Hem-fir
#3
SS
4-7
6-2
6-9
9-9
8-6
12-10
10-5
16-5
12-1
19-11
4-3
6-2
6-3
9-9
7-11
12-10
9-7
16-1
11-2
18-8
Hem-fir
#1
6-1
9-3
11-9
14-4
16-7
5-10
8-7
10-10
13-3
15-5
Hem-fir
#2
5-9
8-9
11-1
13-7
15-9
5-7
8-1
10-3
12-7
14-7
Hem-fir
#3
4-7
6-9
8-6
10-5
12-1
4-3
6-3
7-11
9-7
11-2
(continiued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
393
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.5.1 (6)— continued
RAFTER SPANS FOR COMMON LUMBER SPECIES
(Ground snow load=50 psf, ceiling attached to rafters, L/A = 240)
RAFTER
SPACING
(inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 10 psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
Maximum rafter spans 8
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
19.2
Southern pine SS
Southern pine #1
Southern pine #2
Southern pine #3
Spruce-pine-fir SS
Spruce-pine-fir #1
Spruce-pine-fir #2
Spruce-pine-fir #3
6-5
6-4
6-2
4-11
6-1
5-11
5-1 1
4-7
10-2
9-11
9-4
7-3
9-6
8-11
8-11
6-9
13-4
13-1
12-0
9-2
12-7
11-3
11-3
8-6
17-0
16-0
14-4
10-10
16-0
13-9
13-9
10-5
20-9
19-1
16-10
12-11
19-1
15-11
15-11
12-1
6-5
6-4
6-0
4-6
6-1
5-7
5-7
4-3
10-2
9-11
8-8
6-8
9-6
8-3
8-3
6-3
13-4
12-5
11-2
8-6
12-5
10-5
10-5
7-11
17-0
14-10
13-4
10-1
15-3
12-9
12-9
9-7
20-9
17-8
15-7
12-0
17-8
14-9
14-9
11-2
24
Douglas fir-larch SS
Douglas fir-larch #1
Douglas fir-larch #2
Douglas fir-larch #3
Hem-fir SS
Hem-fir #1
Hem-fir #2
Hem-fir #3
Southern pine SS
Southern pine #1
Southern pine #2
Southern pine #3
Spruce-pine-fir SS
Spruce-pine-fir #1
Spruce-pine-fir #2
Spruce-pine-fir #3
6-1
5-10
5-5
4-1
5-9
5-8
5-4
4-1
6-0
5-10
5-9
4-4
5-8
5-5
5-5
4-1
9-7
8-6
7-1 1
6-0
9-1
8-3
7-10
6-0
9-5
9-3
8-4
6-5
8-10
7-11
7-11
6-0
12-7
10-9
10-1
7-7
11-11
10-6
9-11
7-7
12-5
12-0
10-9
8-3
11-8
10-1
10-1
7-7
15-10
13-2
12-4
9-4
15-2
12-10
12-1
9-4
15-10
14-4
12-10
9-9
14-8
12-4
12-4
9-4
18-4
15-3
14-3
10-9
18-0
14-10
14-1
10-9
19-3
17-1
15-1
11-7
17-1
14-3
14-3
10-9
6-1
5-5
5-0
3-10
5-9
5-3
4-11
3-10
6-0
5-10
5-5
4-1
5-8
5-0
5-0
3-1.0
9-6
7-10
7-4
5-7
9-1
7-8
7-3
5-7
9-5
8-10
7-9
6-0
8-10
7-4
7-4
5-7
12-0
10-0
9-4
7-1
11-9
9-9
9-2
7-1
12-5
11-2
10-0
7-7
11-2
9-4
9-4
7-1
14-8
12-2
11-5
8-7
14-5
11-10
11-3
8-7
15-10
13-3
11-11
9-0
13-7
11-5
11-5
8-7
17-0
14-1
13-2
10-0
15-11
13-9
13-0
10-0
19-3
15-9
13-11
10-8
15-9
13-2
13-2
10-0
Check sources for availability of lumber in lengths greater than 20 feet.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. The tabulated rafter spans assume that ceiling joists are located at the bottom of the attic space or that some other method of resisting the outward push of the
rafters on the bearing walls, such as rafter ties, is provided at that location. When ceiling joists or rafter ties are located higher in the attic space, the rafter spans
shall be multiplied by the factors given below:
«</"„
Rafter Span Adjustment Factor
1/3
0.67
1/4
0.76
1/5
0.83
1/6
0.90
1/7.5 or less
1.00
where:
H c = Height of ceiling joists or rafter ties measured vertically above the top of the rafter support wal
H„= Height of roof ridge measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls.
394
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.5.1(7)
RAFTER SPANS FOR 70 PSF GROUND SNOW LOAD
(Ceiling not attached to rafters, L/A = 180)
RAFTER
SPACING
(inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 10 psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
Maximum Rafter Spans"
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
12
Douglas fir-larch SS
Douglas fir-larch #1
Douglas fir-larch #2
Douglas fir-larch #3
Hem-fir SS
Hem-fir #1
Hem-fir #2
Hem-fir #3
Southern pine SS
Southern pine #1
Southern pine #2
Southern pine #3
Spruce-pine-fir SS
Spruce-pine-fir #1
Spruce-pine-fir #2
Spruce-pine-fir #3
7-7
7-1
6-8
5-0
7-2
6-11
6-7
5-0
7-5
7-3
7-1
5-4
7-0
6-8
6-8
5-0
11-10
10-5
9-9
7-4
11-3
10-2
9-7
7-4
11-8
11-5
10-2
7-11
11-0
9-9
9-9
7-4
15-8
13-2
12-4
9-4
14-9
12-10
12-2
9-4
15-4
14-9
13-2
10-1
14-6
12-4
12-4
9-4
19-5
16-1
15-1
11-5
18-10
15-8
14-10
11-5
19-7
17-6
15-9
11-11
18-0
15-1
15-1
11-5
22-6
18-8
17-6
13-2
22-1
18-2
17-3
13-2
23-10
20-11
18-5
14-2
20-11
17-6
17-6
13-2
7-7
6-8
6-3
4-9
7-2
6-6
6-2
4-9
7-5
7-3
6-8
5-1
7-0
6-3
6-3
4-9
11-10
9-10
9-2
6-11
11-3
9-7
9-1
6-11
11-8
11-1
9-7
7-5
11-0
9-2
9-2
6-11
15-0
12-5
11-8
8-9
14-8
12-1
11-5
8-9
15-4
13-11
12-5
9-6
13-11
11-8
11-8
8-9
18-3
15-2
14-2
10-9
18-0
14-10
14-0
10-9
19-7
16-6
14-10
11-3
17-0
14-2
14-2
10-9
21-2
17-7
16-6
12-5
20-10
17-2
16-3
12-5
23-10
19-8
17-5
13-4
19-8
16-6
16-6
12-5
16
Douglas fir-larch SS
Douglas fir-larch #1
Douglas fir-larch #2
Douglas fir-larch #3
Hem-fir SS
Hem-fir #1
Hem-fir #2
Hem-fir #3
Southern pine SS
Southern pine #1
Southern pine #2
Southern pine #3
Spmce-pine-fir SS
Spmce-pine-fir #1
Spruce-pine-fir #2
Spmce-pine-fir #3
6-10
6-2
5-9
4-4
6-6
6-0
5-8
4-4
6-9
6-7
6-2
4-8
6-4
5-9
5-9
4-4
10-9
9-0
8-5
6-4
10-2
8-9
8-4
6-4
10-7
10-2
8-10
6-10
10-0
8-5
8-5
6-4
13-9
11-5
10-8
8-1
13-5
11-2
10-6
8-1
14-0
12-9
11-5
8-9
12-9
10-8
10-8
8-1
16-10
13-11
13-1
9-10
16-6
13-7
12-10
9-10
17-10
15-2
13-7
10-4
15-7
13-1
13-1
9-10
19-6
16-2
15-2
11-5
19-2
15-9
14-11
11-5
21-8
18-1
16-0
12-3
18-1
15-2
15-2
11-5
6-10
5-10
5-5
4-1
6-6
5-8
5-4
4-1
6-9
6-5
5-10
4-4
6-4
5-5
5-5
4-1
10-3
8-6
7-11
6-0
10- 1
8-3
7-10
6-0
10-7
9-7
8-4
6-5
9-6
7-11
7-11
6-0
13-0
10-9
10-1
7-7
12-9
10-6
9-11
7-7
14-0
12-0
10-9
8-3
12-0
10-1
10-1
7-7
15-10
13-2
12-4
9-4
15-7
12-10
12-1
9-4
17-10
14-4
12-10
9-9
14-8
12-4
12-4
9-4
18-4
15-3
14-3
10-9
18-0
14-10
14-1
10-9
21-0
17-1
15-1
11-7
17-1
14-3
14-3
10-9
19.2
Douglas fir-larch SS
Douglas fir-larch #1
Douglas fir-larch #2
Douglas fir-larch #3
Hem-fir SS
Hem-fir #1
Hem-fir #2
Hem-fir #3
6-5
5-7
5-3
4-0
6-1
5-6
5-2
4-0
9-11
8-3
7-8
5-10
9-7
8-0
7-7
5-10
12-7
10-5
9-9
7-4
12-4
10-2
9-7
7-4
15-4
12-9
11-11
9-0
15-1
12-5
11-9
9-0
17-9
14-9
13-10
10-5
17-4
14-5
13-7
10-5
6-5
5-4
5-0
3-9
6-1
5-2
4-11
3-9
9-4
7-9
7-3
5-6
9-2
7-7
7-2
5-6
11-10
9-10
9-2
6-11
11-8
9-7
9-1
6-11
14-5
12-0
11-3
8-6
14-2
11-8
11-1
8-6
16-9
13-11
13-0
9-10
15-5
13-7
12-10
9-10
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 05
395
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.5.1 (7)— continued
RAFTER SPANS FOR 70 PSF GROUND SNOW LOAD
(Ceiling not attached to rafters, L/A = 180)
RAFTER
SPACING
(inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 10psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
Maximum Rafter Spans"
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
(feet-
inches)
19.2
Southern pine SS
Southern pine #1
Southern pine #2
Southern pine #3
Spruce-pine-fir SS
Spruce-pine-fir #1
Spruce-pine-fir #2
Spruce-pine-fir #3
6-4
6-3
5-7
4-3
6-0
5-3
5-3
4-0
10-0
9-3
8-1
6-3
9-2
7-8
7-8
5-10
13-2
11-8
10-5
8-0
11-8
9-9
9-9
7-4
16-9
13-10
12-5
9-5
14-3
11-11
11-11
9-0
20-4
16-6
14-7
11-2
16-6
13-10
13-10
10-5
6-4
5-11
5-4
4-0
5-11
5-0
5-0
3-9
10-0
8-9
7-7
5-11
8-8
7-3
7-3
5-6
13-2
11-0
9-10
7-6
11-0
9-2
9-2
6-11
16-5
13-1
11-9
8-10
13-5
11-3
11-3
8-6
19-2
15-7
13-9
10-7
15-7
13-0
13-0
9-10
24
Douglas fir-larch SS
Douglas fir-larch #1
Douglas fir-larch #2
Douglas fir-larch #3
Hem-fir SS
Hem-fir #1
Hem-fir #2
Hem-fir #3
Southern pine SS
Southern pine #1
Southern pine #2
Southern pine #3
Spruce-pine-fir SS
Spruce-pine-fir #1
Spruce-pine-fir #2
Spruce-pine-fir #3
6-0
5-0
4-8
3-7
5-8
4-11
4-8
3-7
5-11
5-7
5-0
3-9
5-6
4-8
4-8
3-7
8-10
7-4
6-11
5-2
8-8
7-2
6-9
5-2
9-3
8-3
7-3
5-7
8-3
6-11
6-11
5-2
11-3
9-4
8-9
6-7
11-0
9-1
8-7
6-7
12-2
10-5
9-4
7-1
10-5
8-9
8-9
6-7
13-9
11-5
10-8
8-1
13-6
11-1
10-6
8-1
15-7
12-5
11-1
8-5
12-9
10-8
10-8
8-1
15-11
13-2
12-4
9-4
13-11
12-10
12-2
9-4
18-2
14-9
13-0
10-0
14-9
12-4
12-4
9-4
5-9
4-9
4-5
3-4
5-7
4-7
4-4
3-4
5-11
5-3
4-9
3-7
5-4
4-5
4-5
3-4
8-4
6-11
6-6
4-11
8-3
6-9
6-5
4-11
9-3
7-10
6-10
5-3
7-9
6-6
6-6
4-11
10-7
8-9
8-3
6-3
10-5
8-7
8-1
6-3
12-2
9-10
8-9
6-9
9-10
8-3
8-3
6-3
12-11
10-9
10-0
7-7
12-4
10-6
9-11
7-7
14-8
11-8
10-6
7-11
12-0
10-0
10-0
7-7
15-0
12-5
11-8
8-10
12-4
12-2
11-6
8-10
17-2
13-11
12-4
9-5
12-11
11-8
11-8
8-10
Check sources for availability of lumber in lengths greater than 20 feet.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. The tabulated rafter spans assume that ceiling joists are located at the bottom of the attic space or that some other method of resisting the outward push of the
rafters on the bearing walls, such as rafter ties, is provided at that location. When ceiling joists or rafter ties are located higher in the attic space, the rafter
spans shall be multiplied by the factors given below:
HJH R
Rafter Span Adjustment Factor
1/3
0.67
1/4
0.76
1/5
0.83
1/6
0.90
1/7.5 or less
1.00
where:
H c = Height of ceiling joists or rafter ties measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls.
H R = Height of roof ridge measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls.
396
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.5. 1(8)
RAFTER SPANS FOR 70 PSF GROUND SNOW LOAD
(Ceiling attached to rafters, L/A = 240)
RAFTER
SPACING
(inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 10 psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x 10
2x12
Maximum rafter spans
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
Douglas fir-larch
SS
6-10
10-9
14-3
18-2
22-1
6-10
10-9
14-3
18-2
21-2
Douglas fir-larch
#1
6-7
10-5
13-2
16-1
18-8
6-7
9-10
12-5
15-2
17-7
Douglas fir-larch
#2
6-6
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
6-3
9-2
11-8
14-2
16-6
Douglas fir-larch
#3
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
4-9
6-11
8-9
10-9
12-5
Hem-fir
SS
6-6
10-2
13-5
17-2
20-10
6-6
10-2
13-5
17-2
20-10
Hem-fir
#1
6-4
10-0
12-10
15-8
18-2
6-4
9-7
12-1
14-10
17-2
Hem-fir
#2
6-1
9-6
12-2
14-10
17-3
6-1
9-1
11-5
14-0
16-3
12
Hem-fir
#3
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
4-9
6-11
8-9
10-9
12-5
Southern pine
SS
6-9
10-7
14-0
17-10
21-8
6-9
10-7
14-0
17-10
21-8
Southern pine
#1
6-7
10-5
13-8
17-6
20-11
6-7
10-5
13-8
16-6
19-8
Southern pine
#2
6-6
10-2
13-2
15-9
18-5
6-6
9-7
12-5
14-10
17-5
Southern pine
#3
5-4
7-11
10-1
11-11
14-2
5-1
7-5
9-6
11-3
13-4
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
6-4
10-0
13-2
16-9
20-5
6-4
10-0
13-2
16-9
19-8
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
6-2
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
6-2
9-2
11-8
14-2
16-6
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
6-2
9-9
12-4
15-1
17-6
6-2
9-2
11-8
14-2
16-6
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
4-9
6-11
8-9
10-9
12-5
Douglas fir-larch
SS
6-3
9-10
12-11
16-6
19-6
6-3
9-10
12-11
15-10
18-4
Douglas fir-larch
#1
6-0
9-0
11-5
13-11
16-2
5-10
8-6
10-9
13-2
15-3
Douglas fir-larch
#2
5-9
8-5
10-8
13-1
15-2
5-5
7-11
10-1
12-4
14-3
Douglas fir-larch
#3
4-4
6-4
8-1
9-10
11-5
4-1
6-0
7-7
9-4
10-9
Hem-fir
SS
5-11
9-3
12-2
15-7
18-11
5-11
9-3
12-2
15-7
18-0
Hem-fir
#1
5-9
8-9
11-2
13-7
15-9
5-8
8-3
10-6
12-10
14-10
Hem-fir
#2
5-6
8-4
10-6
12-10
14-1 1
5-4
7-10
9-11
12-1
14-1
16
Hem-fir
#3
4-4
6-4
8-1
9-10
11-5
4-1
6-0
7-7
9-4
10-9
Southern pine
SS
6-1
9-7
12-8
16-2
19-8
6-1
9-7
12-8
16-2
19-8
Southern pine
#1
6-0
9-5
12-5
15-2
18-1
6-0
9-5
12-0
14-4
17-1
Southern pine
#2
5-11
8-10
11-5
13-7
16-0
5-10
8-4
10-9
12-10
15-1
Southern pine
#3
4-8
6-10
8-9
10-4
12-3
4-4
6-5
8-3
9-9
11-7
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
5-9
9-1
11-11
15-3
18-1
5-9
9-1
11-11
14-8
17-1
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
5-8
8-5
10-8
13-1
15-2
5-5
7-11
10-1
12-4
14-3
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
5-8
8-5
10-8
13-1
15-2
5-5
7-11
10-1
12-4
14-3
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
4-4
6-4
8-1
9-10
11-5
4-1
6-0
7-7
9-4
10-9
Douglas fir- larch
SS
5-10
9-3
12-2
15-4
17-9
5-10
9-3
11-10
14-5
16-9
Douglas fir-larch
#1
5-7
8-3
10-5
12-9
14-9
5-4
7-9
9-10
12-0
13-11
Douglas fir-larch
#2
5-3
7-8
9-9
11-11
13-10
5-0
7-3
9-2
11-3
13-0
19.2
Douglas fir-larch
#3
4-0
5-10
7-4
9-0
10-5
3-9
5-6
6-11
8-6
9-10
Hem-fir
SS
5-6
8-8
11-6
14-8
17-4
5-6
8-8
11-6
14-2
15-5
Hem-fir
#1
5-5
8-0
10-2
12-5
14-5
5-2
7-7
9-7
11-8
13-7
Hem-fir
#2
5-2
7-7
9-7
11-9
13-7
4-11
7-2
9-1
11-1
12-10
Hem-fir
#3
4-0
5-10
7-4
9-0
10-5
3-9
5-6
6-11
8-6
9-10
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE G
397
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.5.1 (8)— continued
RAFTER SPANS FOR 70 PSF GROUND SNOW LOAD
(Ceiling attached to rafters, L/A = 240)
RAFTER
SPACING
(inches)
SPECIES AND GRADE
DEAD LOAD = 1
psf
DEAD LOAD = 20 psf
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
2x4
2x6
2x8
2x10
2x12
Maximum rafter spans'
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
(feet -
inches)
Southern pine
SS
5-9
9-1
11-11
15-3
18-6
5-9
9-1
11-11
15-3
18-6
Southern pine
#1
5-8
8-11
11-8
13-10
16-6
5-8
8-9
11-0
13-1
15-7
Southern pine
#2
5-6
8-1
10-5
12-5
14-7
5-4
7-7
9-10
11-9
13-9
1 9.2
Southern pine
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
SS
4-3
5-5
6-3
8-6
8-0
11-3
9-5
14-3
11-2
16-6
4-0
5-5
5-11
8-6
7-6
11-0
8-10
13-5
10-7
15-7
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
5-3
7-8
9-9
11-11
13-10
5-0
7-3
9-2
11-3
13-0
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
5-3
7-8
9-9
11-11
13-10
5-0
7-3
9-2
11-3
13-0
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
4-0
5-10
7-4
9-0
10-5
3-9
5-6
6-11
8-6
9-10
Douglas fir-larch
SS
5-5
8-7
11-3
13-9
15-1 1
5-5
8-4
10-7
12-11
15-0
Douglas fir-larch
#1
5-0
7-4
9-4
11-5
13-2
4-9
6-11
8-9
10-9
12-5
Douglas fir-larch
#2
4-8
6-11
8-9
10-8
12-4
4-5
6-6
8-3
10-0
11-8
Douglas fir-larch
#3
3-7
5-2
6-7
8-1
9-4
3-4
4-11
6-3
7-7
8-10
Hem-fir
SS
5-2
8-1
10-8
13-6
13-11
5-2
8-1
10-5
12-4
12-4
Hem-fir
#1
4-11
7-2
9-1
11-1
12-10
4-7
6-9
8-7
10-6
12-2
Hem-fir
#2
4-8
6-9
8-7
10-6
12-2
4-4
6-5
8-1
9-11
11-6
24
Hem-fir
#3
3-7
5-2
6-7
8-1
9-4
3-4
4-11
6-3
7-7
8-10
Southern pine
SS
5-4
8-5
11-1
14-2
17-2
5-4
8-5
11-1
14-2
17-2
Southern pine
#1
5-3
8-3
10-5
12-5
14-9
5-3
7-10
9-10
11-8
13-11
Southern pine
#2
5-0
7-3
9-4
11-1
13-0
4-9
6-10
8-9
10-6
12-4
Southern pine
#3
3-9
5-7
7-1
8-5
10-0
3-7
5-3
6-9
7-11
9-5
Spruce-pine-fir
SS
5-0
7-11
10-5
12-9
14-9
5-0
7-9
9-10
12-0
12-11
Spruce-pine-fir
#1
4-8
6-11
8-9
10-8
12-4
4-5
6-6
8-3
10-0
11-8
Spruce-pine-fir
#2
4-8
6-11
8-9
10-8
12-4
4-5
6-6
8-3
10-0
11-8
Spruce-pine-fir
#3
3-7
5-2
6-7
8-1
9-4
3-4
4-11
6-3
7-7
8-10
Check sources for availability of lumber in lengths greater than 20 feet.
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. The tabulated rafter spans assume that ceiling joists are located at the bottom of the attic space or th;
rafters on the bearing walls, such as rafter ties, is provided at that location. When ceiling joists or
spans shall be multiplied by the factors given below:
at some other method of resisting the outward push of the
rafter ties are located higher in the attic space, the rafter
"</«„
Rafter Span Adjustment Factor
1/3
0.67
1/4
0.76
1/5
0.83
1/6
0.90
1/7.5 or less
1.00
where:
H c - Height of ceiling joists or rafter ties measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls.
B R = Height of roof ridge measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls.
398
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.5.1(9)
RAFTER/CEILING JOIST HEEL JOINT CONNECTIONS" b
c, d, e, 1, h
RAFTER
SLOPE
RAFTER
SPACING
(inches)
GROUND SNOW LOAD (psf)
20 s
30
50
70
Roof span (feet)
12
20
28
36
12
20 28
36
12
20
28
36
12
20
28
36
Required number of 16d common nails" "per heel joint splices ^
M
12
4
6
8
10
4
6
8
11
5
8
12
15
6
11
15
20
3:12
16
5
8
10
13
5
8
11
14
6
11
15
20
8
14
20
26
24
7
11
15
19
7
11
16
21
9
16
23
30
12
21
30
39
12
3
5
6
8
3
5
6
8
4
6
9
11
5
8
12
15
4:12
16
4
6
8
10
4
6
8
11
5
8
12
15
6
11
15
20
24
5
8
12
15
5
9
12
16
7
12
17
22
9
16
23
29
12
3
4
5
6
3
4
5
7
3
5
7
9
4
7
9
12
5:12
16
3
5
6
8
3
5
7
9
4
7
9
12
5
9
12
16
24
4
7
9
12
4
7
10
13
6
10
14
18
7
13
18
23
12
3
4
4
5
3
3
4
5
3
4
5
7
3
5
7
9
7:12
16
3
4
5
6
3
4
5
6
3
5
7
9
4
6
9
11
24
3
5
7
9
3
5
7
9
4
7
10
13
5
9
13
17
12
3
3
4
4
3
3
3
4
3
3
4
5
3
4
5
7
9:12
16
3
4
4
5
3
3
4
5
3
4
5
7
3
5
7
9
24
3
4
6
7
3
4
6
7
3
6
8
10
4
7
10
13
12
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
4
3
3
4
5
12:12
16
3
3
4
4
3
3
3
4
3
3
4
5
3
4
5
7
24
3
4
4
5
3
3
4
6
3
4
6
8
3
6
8
10
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. 40d box nails shall be permitted to be substituted for 16d common nails.
b. Nailing requirements shall be permitted to be reduced 25 percent if nails are clinched.
c. Heel joint connections are not required when the ridge is supported by a load-bearing wall, header or ridge beam.
d. When intermediate support of the rafter is provided by vertical struts or purlins to a load-bearing wall, the tabulated heel joint connection requirements shall
be permitted to be reduced proportionally to the reduction in span.
e. Equivalent nailing patterns are required for ceiling joist to ceiling joist lap splices.
f. When rafter ties are substituted for ceiling joists, the heel joint connection requirement shall be taken as the tabulated heel joint connection requirement for
two-thirds of the actual rafter slope.
g. Applies to roof live load of 20 psf or less.
h. Tabulated heel joint connection requirements assume that ceiling joists or rafter ties are located at the bottom of the attic space. When ceiling joists or rafter
ties are located higher in the attic, heel joint connection requirements shall be increased by the following factors:
"</"*
Heel Joint Connection Adjustment Factor
1/3
1.5
1/4
1.33
1/5
1.25
1/6
1.2
1/10 or less
1.11
where:
H c = Height of ceiling joists or rafter ties measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls.
H R = Height of roof ridge measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE"
399
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
RAFTER SPANS SEE TABLES
R802.5.1 (1 ) THROUGH R802.5.1(8)
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 305 mm, 1 degree = 0.018 rad.
Note: Where ceiling joists run perpendicular to the rafter, rafter lies shall be installed in accordance with Section R802.3. 1 .
H r = Height of ceiling joists or rafter ties measured vertically above the top of rafter support walls.
H R = Height of roof ridge measured vertically above the top of the rafter support walls.
FIGURE R802.5.1
BRACED RAFTER CONSTRUCTION
R802.6 Bearing. The ends of each rafter or ceiling joist shall
have not less than l'/ 2 inches (38 mm) of bearing on wood or
metal and not less than 3 inches (76 mm) on masonry or con-
crete. The bearing on masonry or concrete shall be direct, or a
sill plate of 2-inch (51 mm) minimum nominal thickness shall
be provided under the rafter or ceiling joist. The sill plate
shall provide a minimum nominal bearing area of 48 square
inches (30 865 mm 2 ).
R802.6.1 Finished ceiling material. If the finished ceil-
ing material is installed on the ceiling prior to the attach-
ment of the ceiling to the walls, such as in construction at a
factory, a compression strip of the same thickness as the
finish ceiling material shall be installed directly above the
top plate of bearing walls if the compressive strength of
the finish ceiling material is less than the loads it will be
required to withstand. The compression strip shall cover
the entire length of such top plate and shall be at least one-
half the width of the top plate. It shall be of material capa-
ble of transmitting the loads transferred through it.
| R802.7 Cutting, drilling and notching. Structural roof
members shall not be cut, bored or notched in excess of the
limitations specified in this section.
R802.7.1 Sawn lumber. Cuts, notches, and holes in solid
lumber joists, rafters, blocking and beams shall comply
with the provisions of R502.8.1 except that cantilevered
portions of rafters shall be permitted in accordance with
Section R802.7. 1.1.
R802.7.1.1 Cantilevered portions of rafters. Notches
on cantilevered portions of rafters are permitted pro-
vided the dimension of the remaining portion of the raf-
ter is not less than 3 ! / 2 inches (89 mm) and the length of
the cantilever does not exceed 24 inches (610 mm) in
accordance with Figure R802.7.1.1.
R802.7.1.2 Ceiling joist taper cut. Taper cuts at the
ends of the ceiling joist shall not exceed one-fourth the
depth of the member in accordance with Figure
R802.7.1.2.
R802.7.2 Engineered wood products. Cuts, notches and
holes bored in trusses, structural composite lumber, struc-
tural glue-laminated members or I-joists are prohibited
except where permitted by the manufacturer' s recommen-
dations or where the effects of such alterations are specifi-
cally considered in the design of the member by a
registered design professional.
400
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
CANTILEVER LENGTH NOT
TO EXCEED 24 INCHES
(IRC 802.7.1.1)
NOT LESS THAN
3-1/2 INCHES
(IRC 802.7.1.1)
DEPTH, D
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R802.7.1.1
RAFTER NOTCH
DEPTH OF TAPER
CUT, D/4 MAX.
MEASURED AT
INSIDE FACE
OF SUPPORT
JOIST DEPTH AT
TAPER CUT
FIGURE R802.7.1.2
CEILING JOIST TAPER CUT
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
401
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
R802.8 Lateral support. Roof framing members and ceiling
joists having a depth-to- thickness ratio exceeding 5 to 1
based on nominal dimensions shall be provided with lateral
support at points of bearing to prevent rotation. For roof raf-
ters with ceiling joists attached per Table R602.3(l), the
depth-to-thickness ratio for the total assembly shall be deter-
mined using the combined thickness of the rafter plus the
attached ceiling joist.
Exception: Roof trusses shall be braced in accordance
with Section R802. 10.3.
R802.8.1 Bridging. Rafters and ceiling joists having a
depth-to-thickness ratio exceeding 6 to 1 based on nominal
dimensions shall be supported laterally by solid blocking,
diagonal bridging (wood or metal) or a continuous 1-inch
by 3-inch (25 mm by 76 mm) wood strip nailed across the
rafters or ceiling joists at intervals not exceeding 8 feet
(2438 mm).
R802.9 Framing of openings. Openings in roof and ceiling
framing shall be framed with header and trimmer joists.
When the header joist span does not exceed 4 feet (1219
mm), the header joist may be a single member the same size
as the ceiling joist or rafter. Single trimmer joists may be used
to carry a single header joist that is located within 3 feet (914
mm) of the trimmer joist bearing. When the header joist span
exceeds 4 feet (1219 mm), the trimmer joists and the header
joist shall be doubled and of sufficient cross section to sup-
port the ceiling joists or rafter framing into the header.
Approved hangers shall be used for the header joist to trim-
mer joist connections when the header joist span exceeds 6
feet (1 829 mm). Tail joists over 12 feet (3658 mm) long shall
be supported at the header by framing anchors or on ledger
strips not less than 2 inches by 2 inches (51 mm by 51 mm).
R802.10 Wood trusses.
R802.10.1 Truss design drawings. Truss design draw-
ings, prepared in conformance to Section R802.10.1, shall
be provided to the building official and approved prior to
installation. Truss design drawings shall include, at a min-
imum, the information specified below. Truss design
drawings shall be provided with the shipment of trusses
delivered to the jobsite.
1 . Slope or depth, span and spacing.
2. Location of all joints.
3. Required bearing widths.
4. Design loads as applicable.
4.1. Top chord live load (as determined from
Section R301. 6).
4.2. Top chord dead load.
4.3. Bottom chord live load.
4.4. Bottom chord dead load.
4.5. Concentrated loads and their points of appli-
cation.
4.6. Controlling wind and earthquake loads.
5. Adjustments to lumber and joint connector design
values for conditions of use.
6. Each reaction force and direction.
7. Joint connector type and description (e.g., size,
thickness or gage) and the dimensioned location of
each joint connector except where symmetrically
located relative to the joint interface.
8. Lumber size, species and grade for each member.
9. Connection requirements for:
9.1. Truss to girder-truss.
9.2. Truss ply to ply.
9.3. Field splices.
10. Calculated deflection ratio and/or maximum
description for live and total load.
11. Maximum axial compression forces in the truss
members to enable the building designer to design
the size, connections and anchorage of the perma-
nent continuous lateral bracing. Forces shall be
shown on the truss design drawing or on supple-
mental documents.
12. Required permanent truss member bracing loca-
tion.
R802.10.2 Design. Wood trusses shall be designed in
accordance with accepted engineering practice. The
design and manufacture of metal-plate-connected wood
trusses shall comply with ANSI/TPI 1. The truss design
drawings shall be prepared by a registered professional
where required by the statutes of the jurisdiction in which
the project is to be constructed in accordance with Section
R106.1.
R802.10.2.1 Applicability limits. The provisions of
this section shall control the design of truss roof
framing when snow controls for buildings not greater
than 60 feet (18 288 mm) in length perpendicular to
the joist, rafter or truss span, not greater than 36 feet
(10 973 mm) in width parallel to the joist, rafter or
truss span, not more than three stories above grade j
plane in height, and roof slopes not smaller than 3 : 1 2 j
(25 percent slope) or greater than 12:12 (100 percent
slope). Truss roof framing constructed in accordance
with the provisions of this section shall be limited to
sites subjected to a maximum design wind speed of
110 miles per hour (49 m/s), Exposure A, B or C,
and a maximum ground snow load of 70 psf (3352
Pa). For consistent loading of all truss types, roof
snow load is to be computed as: 0.7 /?,.
R802.10.3 Bracing. Trusses shall be braced to prevent
rotation and provide lateral stability in accordance with the
requirements specified in the construction documents for
the building and on the individual truss design drawings. In
the absence of specific bracing requirements, trusses shall I
be braced in accordance with accepted industry practice 1
such as the SBCA Building Component Safety Information |
(BCSI) Guide to Good Practice for Handling, Installing &
Bracing of Metal Plate Connected Wood Trusses.
R802.10.4 Alterations to trusses. Truss members shall
not be cut, notched, drilled, spliced or otherwise altered in
any way without the approval of a registered design pro-
mi
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
fessional. Alterations resulting in the addition of load (e.g.,
HVAC equipment, water heater) that exceeds the design
load for the truss shall not be permitted without verifica-
tion that the truss is capable of supporting such additional
loading.
R802.1 1 Roof tie-down.
R802.ll. 1 Uplift resistance. Roof assemblies shall have
uplift resistance in accordance with Sections R802.1 1 .1 .2
and R802.1 1.1.3.
Where the uplift force does not exceed 200 pounds, raf-
ters and trusses spaced not more than 24 inches (610 mm)
on center shall be permitted to be attached to their support-
ing wall assemblies in accordance with Table R602.3(l).
Where the basic wind speed does not exceed 90 mph,
the wind exposure category is B, the roof pitch is 5:12 or
greater, and the roof span is 32 feet (9754 mm) or less, raf-
ters and trusses spaced not more than 24 inches (610 mm)
on center shall be permitted to be attached to their support-
ing wall assemblies in accordance with Table R602.3(l).
R802.ll. 1.2 Truss uplift resistance. Trusses shall be
attached to supporting wall assemblies by connections
capable of resisting uplift forces as specified on the
trass design drawings. Uplift forces shall be permitted
to be determined as specified by Table R802.ll, if
applicable, or as determined by accepted engineering
practice.
R802.ll. 1.3 Rafter uplift resistance. Individual raf-
ters shall be attached to supporting wall assemblies by
connections capable of resisting uplift forces as deter-
mined by Table R802.1 1 or as determined by accepted
engineering practice. Connections for beams used in a
roof system shall be designed in accordance with
accepted engineering practice.
R803.2 Wood structural panel sheathing.
R803.2.1 Identification and grade. Wood structural pan-
els shall conform to DOC PS 1, DOC PS 2 or, when man-
ufactured in Canada, CSA 0437 or CSA 0325, and shall
be identified for grade, bond classification, and Perfor-
mance Category by a grade mark or certificate of inspec-
tion issued by an approved agency. Wood structural
panels shall comply with the grades specified in Table
R503.2.1.1(l).
R 803.2. 1.1 Exposure durability. All wood structural
panels, when designed to be permanently exposed in
outdoor applications, shall be of an exterior exposure
durability. Wood structural panel roof sheathing
exposed to the underside may be of interior type
bonded with exterior glue, identified as Exposure 1 .
R803.2.1.2 Fire-retardant-treated plywood. The
allowable unit stresses for fire-retardant-treated ply-
wood, including fastener values, shall be developed
from an approved method of investigation that consid-
ers the effects of anticipated temperature and humidity
to which the fire-retardant-treated plywood will be sub-
jected, the type of treatment and redrying process. The
fire-retardant-treated plywood shall be graded by an
approved agency.
R803.2.2 Allowable spans. The maximum allowable
spans for wood structural panel roof sheathing shall not
exceed the values set forth in Table R503.2.1.1(l), or APA
E30.
R803.2.3 Installation. Wood structural panel used as roof
sheathing shall be installed with joints staggered or not
staggered in accordance with Table R602.3(l), or APA
E30 for wood roof framing or with Table R804.3 for steel
roof framing.
SECTION R803
ROOF SHEATHING
R803.1 Lumber sheathing. Allowable spans for lumber
used as roof sheathing shall conform to Table R803. 1 . Spaced
lumber sheathing for wood shingle and shake roofing shall
conform to the requirements of Sections R905.7 and R905.8.
Spaced lumber sheathing is not allowed in Seismic Design
Category D 2 .
TABLE R803.1
MINIMUM THICKNESS OF LUMBER ROOF SHEATHING
RAFTER OR BEAM SPACING
(inches)
MINIMUM NET THICKNESS
(inches)
24
\
48 a
l'/ 2 T&G
60 b
72 c
For SI: t inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Minimum 270 F,,, 340,000 E.
b. Minimum 420 F„, 660,000 s.
c. Minimum 600F b , 1,150,000 E.
SECTION R804
STEEL ROOF FRAMING
R804.1 General. Elements shall be straight and free of any
defects that would significantly affect their structural perfor-
mance. Cold-formed steel roof framing members shall com-
ply with the requirements of this section.
R804.1.1 Applicability limits. The provisions of this sec-
tion shall control the construction of cold-formed steel
roof framing for buildings not greater than 60 feet (18 288
mm) perpendicular to the joist, rafter or truss span, not
greater than 40 feet (12 192 mm) in width parallel to the
joist span or truss, less than or equal to three stories above
grade plane and with roof slopes not less than 3:12 (25-
percent slope) or greater than 12:12 (100-percent slope).
Cold-formed steel roof framing constructed in accordance
with the provisions of this section shall be limited to sites
subjected to a maximum design wind speed of 1 10 miles
per hour (49 m/s), Exposure B or C, and a maximum
ground snow load of 70 pounds per square foot (3350 Pa).
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
403
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.11
RAFTER OR TRUSS UPLIFT CONNECTION FORCES FROIVI WIND (POUNDS PER
CONNECTION)" b ' c ' d ' e ' f ' 9 ' h
RAFTER OR
TRUSS
SPACING
ROOF SPAN
(feet)
EXPOSURE B
Basic Wind Speed (mph)
85
90
100
110
Roof Pitch
Roof Pitch
Roof Pitch
Roof Pitch
<5:12
>5:12
<5:12
>5:12
<5:12
> 5:12
<5:12
>5:12
12"o.c.
12
47
41
62
54
93
81
127
110
18
59
51
78
68
119
104
165
144
24
70
61
93
81
145
126
202
176
28
77
67
104
90
163
142
227
197
32
85
74
115
100
180
157
252
219
36
93
81
126
110
198
172
277
241
42
105
91
143
124
225
196
315
274
48
116
101
159
138
251
218
353
307
16"o.c.
12
63
55
83
72
124
108
169
147
18
78
68
103
90
159
138
219
191
24
93
81
124
108
193
168
269
234
28
102
89
138
120
217
189
302
263
32
113
98
153
133
239
208
335
291
36
124
108
168
146
264
230
369
321
42
139
121
190
165
299
260
420
365
48
155
135
212
184
335
291
471
410
24" o.c.
12
94
82
124
108
186
162
254
221
18
117
102
155
135
238
207
329
286
24
140
122
186
162
290
252
404
351
28
154
134
208
181
326
284
454
395
32
170
148
230
200
360
313
504
438
36
186
162
252
219
396
345
554
482
42
209
182
285
248
449
391
630
548
48
232
202
318
277
502
437
706
614
RAFTER OR
TRUSS
SPACING
ROOF SPAN
(feet)
EXPOSURE C
Basic Wind Speed (mph)
85
90
100
110
Roof Pitch
Roof Pitch
Roof Pitch
Roof Pitch
<5:12
>5:12
<5:12
>5:12
<5:12
>5:12
<5:12
> 5:12
12" o.c.
12
94
82
114
99
157
137
206
179
18
120
104
146
127
204
177
268
233
24
146
127
179
156
251
218
330
287
28
164
143
201
175
283
246
372
324
32
182
158
224
195
314
273
414
360
36
200
174
246
214
346
301
456
397
42
227
197
279
243
394
343
520
452
48
254
221
313
272
441
384
583
507
(continued)
404
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R802.11— continued
RAFTER OR TRUSS UPLIFT CONNECTION FORCES FROM WIND {POUNDS PER CONNECTION) 3 ' b < c > ".=.<. a."
RAFTER OR
TRUSS
SPACING
ROOF SPAN
(feet)
EXPOSURE C
Basic Wind Speed (mph)
85
90
100
110
Roof Pitch
Roof Pitch
Roof Pitch
Roof Pitch
<5:12
>5:12
<5:12
>5:12
<5:12
>5:12
<5:12
>5:12
16"o.c.
12
125
109
152
132
209
182
274
238
18
160
139
194
169
27 1
236
356
310
24
194
169
238
207
334
291
439
382
28
218
190
267
232
376
327
495
431
32
242
211
298
259
418
364
55 1
479
36
266
231
327
284
460
400
606
527
42
302
263
372
324
524
456
691
601
48
338
294
416
362
587
511
775
674
24" ox.
12
188
164
228
198
314
273
412
358
18
240
209
292
254
408
355
536
466
24
292
254
358
311
502
437
660
574
28
328
285
402
350
566
492
744
647
32
364
317
448
390
628
546
828
720
36
400
348
492
428
692
602
912
793
42
454
395
558
485
786
684
1040
905
48
508
442
626
545
882
767
1166
1014
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, I pound = 0.454 kg, 1 pound per linear foot = 14.5 N/m.
a. The uplift connection forces are based on a maximum 33-foot mean roof height and Wind Exposure Category B or C. For Exposure D, the uplift connection
force shall be selected from the Exposure C portion of die table using the next highest tabulated basic wind speed. The Adjustment Coefficients in Table
R301 .2(3) shall not be used to multiply the above forces for Exposures C and D or for other mean roof heights.
b. The uplift connection forces include an allowance for roof and ceiling assembly dead load of 15 psf.
c. The tabulated uplift connection forces are limited to a maximum roof overhang of 24 inches.
d. The tabulated uplift connection forces shall be permitted to be multiplied by 0.75 for connections not located within 8 feet of building corners.
e. For buildings with hip roofs with 5:12 and greater pitch, the tabulated uplift connection forces shall be permitted to be multiplied by 0.70. This reduction shall
not be combined with any other reduction in tabulated forces.
f. For wall-to-wall and wall-to-foundation connections, the uplift connection force shall be permitted to be reduced by 60 plf for each full wall above.
g. Linear interpolation between tabulated roof spans and wind speeds shall be permitted.
h. The tabulated forces for a 1 2-inch on-center spacing shall be permitted to be used to determine the uplift load in pounds per linear foot.
R804.1.2 In-line framing. Cold-formed steel roof fram-
ing constructed in accordance with Section R804 shall be
located in line with load-bearing studs in accordance with
Figure R804.1.2 and the tolerances specified as follows:
1. The maximum tolerance shall be 3 / 4 inch (19.1 mm)
between the centerline of the horizontal framing
member and the centerline of the vertical framing
member.
2. Where the centerline of the horizontal framing
member and bearing stiffener are located to one side
of the center line of the vertical framing member, the
maximum tolerance shall be 7 8 inch (3 mm) between
the web of the horizontal framing member and the
edge of the vertical framing member.
R804.2 Structural framing. Load-bearing, cold-formed
steel roof framing members shall comply with Figure
R804.2(l) and with the dimensional and minimum thickness
requirements specified in Tables R804.2(l) and R804.2(2).
Tracks shall comply with Figure R804.2(2) and shall have a
minimum flange width of 1 7 4 inches (32 mm).
R804.2.1 Material. Load-bearing, cold-formed steel
framing members shall be cold-formed to shape from
structural quality sheet steel complying with the require-
ments of one of the following:
1. ASTM A 653: Grades 33 and 50 (Class 1 and 3).
2. ASTM A 792: Grades 33 and 50A.
3. ASTM A 1003: Structural Grades 33 Type H and 50
Type H.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
405
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
^HORIZONTAL
/ FRAMING
MEMBER
BEARING STIFFENER
TRACK
STUD
C_STUD
HORIZONTAL HORIZONTAL
C_ FRAMING £ FRAMING
MEMBER
rrn r
y 4 "
max.-
it
VERTICAL
<t FRAMING
MEMBER
MEMBER
w
MAX.
FT
VERTICAL
<t FRAMING
MEMBER
HORIZONTAL
FRAMING
MEMBER
BEARING STIFFENER
TRACK
STUD
C BEARING
STIFFENER
^
HORIZONTAL
FRAMING
MEMBER
MAX.
-V' MAX.
FROM WEB OF
HORIZONTAL
FRAMING
MEMBER TO
EDGE OF
VERTICAL
FRAMING
MEMBER
VERTICAL
FRAMING
MEMBER
For SI: I inch = 25.4 ram.
FIGURE R804.1. 2
IN-LINE FRAMING
TABLE R804.2(1)
LOAD-BEARING COLD-FORMED STEEL MEMBER SIZES
NOMINAL MEMBER SIZE
MEMBER DESIGNATION"
WEB DEPTH
(inches)
MINIMUM FLANGE WIDTH
(inches)
MAXIMUM FLANGE WIDTH
(inches)
MINIMUM LIP SIZE
(inches)
350S162-1
3.5
1.625
2
0.5
550S162-t
5.5
1.625
2
0.5
800SJ62-1
8
1.625
2
0.5
1000SI62-1
JO
1.625
2
0.5
1200SI62-1
12
1.625
2
0.5
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. The member designation is defined by the first number representing the member depth in hundredths of an inch, the letter "S" representing a stud or joist
member, the second number representing the flange width in hundredths of an inch, and the letter "t" shall be a number representing the minimum base metal
thickness in mils [see Table R804.2(2VJ.
TABLE R804.2(2)
MINIMUM THICKNESS OF COLD-FORMED STEEL MEMBERS
DESIGNATION THICKNESS (mils)
MINIMUM BASE STEEL THICKNESS (inch)
33
0.0329
43
0.0428
54
0.0538
68
0.0677
97
0.0966
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
406
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
R804.2.2 Identification. Load-bearing, cold-formed steel
framing members shall have a legible label, stencil, stamp
or embossment with the following information as a mini-
mum:
1 . Manufacturer' s identification.
2. Minimum base steel thickness in inches (mm).
3. Minimum coating designation.
4. Minimum yield strength, in kips per square inch
(ksi) (MPa).
R804.2.3 Corrosion protection. Load-bearing, cold-
formed steel framing shall have a metallic coating comply-
ing with ASTM A 1003 and one of the following:
1 . A minimum of G 60 in accordance with ASTM A
653.
2. A minimum of AZ 50 in accordance with ASTM A
792.
R804.2.4 Fastening requirements. Screws for steel-to-
steel connections shall be installed with a minimum edge
distance and center-to-center spacing of 7 2 inch (13 mm),
shall be self-drilling tapping, and shall conform to ASTM
C 1513. Structural sheathing shall be attached to cold-
formed steel roof rafters with minimum No. 8 self-drilling
tapping screws that conform to ASTM C 1513. Screws for
attaching structural sheathing to cold-formed steel roof
framing shall have a minimum head diameter of 0.292
inch (7.4 mm) with countersunk heads and shall be
installed with a minimum edge distance of 3 / 8 inch (10
mm). Gypsum board ceilings shall be attached to cold-
formed steel joists with minimum No. 6 screws conform-
ing to ASTM C 954 or ASTM C 1513 with a bugle-head
style and shall be installed in accordance with Section
R805. For all connections, screws shall extend through the
steel a minimum of three exposed threads. All fasteners
shall have rust-inhibitive coating suitable for the installa-
tion in which they are being used, or be manufactured
from material not susceptible to corrosion.
Where No. 8 screws are specified in a steel-to-steel
connection, reduction of the required number of screws in
the connection is permitted in accordance with the reduc-
tion factors in Table R804.2.4 when larger screws are used
or when one of the sheets of steel being connected is
thicker than 33 mils (0.84 mm). When applying the reduc-
tion factor, the resulting number of screws shall be
rounded up.
TABLE R804.2.4
SCREW SUBSTITUTION FACTOR
SCREW SIZE
THINNEST CONNECTED STEEL SHEET (mils)
33
43
#8
1.0
0.67
#10
0.93
0.62
#12
0.86
0.56
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
R804.2.5 Web holes, web hole reinforcing and web hole
patching. Web holes, web hole reinforcing, and web hole
patching shall be in accordance with this section.
R804.2.5.1 Web holes. Web holes in roof framing
members shall comply with all of the following condi-
tions:
1 . Holes shall conform to Figure R804.2.5.1;
2. Holes shall be permitted only along the centerline
of the web of the framing member;
3. Center-to-center spacing of holes shall not be less
than 24 inches (610 mm):
FLANGE
WEB
DEPTH OF WEB
(OUTSIDE TO
OUTSIDE)
FLANGE
WEB
SIZE OF TRACK
(INSIDE TO INSIDE)
FIGURE R804.2(1)
C-SHAPED SECTION
FIGURE R804.2(2)
TRACK SECTION
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE" 5
407
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
4. The web hole width shall not be greater than one-
half the member depth, or 2 V 2 inches (64.5 mm);
5. Holes shall have a web hole length not exceeding
47, inches (1 14 mm); and
6. The minimum distance between the edge of the
bearing surface and the edge of the web hole shall
not be less than 10 inches (254 mm).
Framing members with web holes not conforming
to the above requirements shall be reinforced in accor-
dance with Section R804.2.5.2, patched in accordance
with Section R804.2.5.3 or designed in accordance with
accepted engineering practices.
R804.2.5.2 Web hole reinforcing. Reinforcement of
web holes in ceiling joists not conforming to the
requirements of Section R804.2.5.1 shall be permitted
if the hole is located fully within the center 40 percent
of the span and the depth and length of the hole does
not exceed 65 percent of the flat width of the web. The
reinforcing shall be a steel plate or C-shape section
with a hole that does not exceed the web hole size limi-
tations of Section R804.2.5.1 for the member being
reinforced. The steel reinforcing shall be the same
thickness as the receiving member and shall extend at
least 1 inch (25.4 mm) beyond all edges of the hole.
The steel reinforcing shall be fastened to the web of the
receiving member with No. 8 screws spaced no greater
than 1 inch (25.4 mm) center-to-center along the edges
of the patch with minimum edge distance of 7 2 inch (13
mm).
R804.2.5.3 Hole patching. Patching of web holes in
roof framing members not conforming to the require-
ments in Section R804.2.5.1 shall be permitted in
accordance with either of the following methods:
1 . Framing members shall be replaced or designed
in accordance with accepted engineering prac-
tices where web holes exceed the following size
limits:
1.1. The depth of the hole, measured across
the web, exceeds 70 percent of the flat
width of the web; or
1.2. The length of the hole measured along
the web, exceeds 10 inches (254 mm) or
the depth of the web, whichever is
greater.
Web holes not exceeding the dimensional
requirements in Section R804.2.5.3, Item 1, shall
be patched with a solid steel plate, stud section or
track section in accordance with Figure
R804.2.5.3. The steel patch shall, as a minimum,
be the same thickness as the receiving member
and shall extend at least 1 inch (25 mm) beyond
all edges of the hole. The steel patch shall be fas-
tened to the web of the receiving member with
No.8 screws spaced no greater than 1 inch (25
mm) center-to-center along the edges of the patch
with minimum edge distance of '/, inch (13 mm).
JOIST
NO. 8 SCREWS
SPACED AT 1 IN. O.C
(TYR)
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R804.2.5.3
WEB HOLE PATCH
10"MIN.
£— r
CENTERLINE OF WEB
BEARING CONDITION
m
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R804.2.5.1
WEB HOLES
408
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
R8IS4.3 Roof construction. Cold-formed steel roof systems
constructed in accordance with the provisions of this section
shall consist of both ceiling joists and rafters in accordance
with Figure R804.3 and fastened in accordance with Table
R804.3, and hip framing in accordance with Section
R804.3.3.
R804.3.1 Ceiling joists. Cold-formed steel ceiling joists
shall be in accordance with this section.
R804.3.1.1 Minimum ceiling joist size. Ceiling joist
size and thickness shall be determined in accordance
with the limits set forth in Tables R804.3.1.1(l)
through R804.3. 1.1(8). When determining the size of
ceiling joists, the lateral support of the top flange shall
be classified as unbraced, braced at mid-span or braced
at third points in accordance with Section R804.3.1.4.
Where sheathing material is attached to the top flange
of ceiling joists or where the bracing is spaced closer
than third point of the joists, the "third point" values
from Tables R804.3. 1.1(1) through R804.3. 1.1(8) shall
be used.
Ceiling joists shall have a bearing support length of
not less than 1 V 2 inches (38 mm) and shall be connected
to roof rafters (heel joint) with No. 10 screws in accor-
dance with Figures R804.3.1 .1(1) and R804.3.1.1(2)
and Table 804.3.1.1(9).
When continuous joists are framed across interior
bearing supports, the interior bearing supports shall be
located within 24 inches (610 mm) of midspan of the
ceiling joist, and the individual spans shall not exceed
the applicable spans in Tables R804.3. 1.1(2),
R804.3.1.1(4), R804.3. 1.1(6) and R804.3. 1.1(8).
When the attic is to be used as an occupied space,
the ceiling joists shall be designed in accordance with
Section R505.
R804.3.1.2 Ceiling joist bearing stiffeners. Where
required in Tables R804.3. 1.1(1) through
R804.3.1.1(8), bearing stiffeners shall be installed at
each bearing support in accordance with Figure
R804.3.1.1(2). Bearing stiffeners shall be fabricated
from a C-shaped or track member in accordance with
the one of following:
1 . C-shaped bearing stiffeners shall be a minimum
33 mils (0.84 mm) thick.
2. Track bearing stiffener shall be a minimum 43
mils (1.09 mm) thick.
The minimum length of a bearing stiffener shall be
the depth of member being stiffened minus 3 / 8 inch (9.5
mm). Each stiffener shall be fastened to the web of the
ceiling joist with a minimum of four No. 8 screws
equally spaced as shown in Figure R804.3. 1.1(2).
Installation of stiffeners shall be permitted on either
side of the web.
-¥-
Por SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 ram, 1 rail = 0.0254 mm.
FIGURE R804.3
STEEL ROOF CONSTRUCTION
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
409
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R804.3
ROOF FRAMING FASTENING SCHEDULE 3 "
DESCRIPTION OF BUILDING ELEMENTS
NUMBER AND SIZE OF FASTENERS
SPACING OF FASTENERS
Ceiling joist to top track of load-bearing wall
2 No. 10 screws
Each joist
Roof sheathing (oriented strand board or ply-
wood) to rafter
No. 8 screws
6" ox. on edges and 12" o.c. at interior
supports. 6" o.c. at gable end truss
Truss to bearing wall a
2 No. 10 screws
Each truss
Gable end truss to end wall top track
No. 10 screws
12" o.c.
Rafter to ceiling joist
Minimum No. 10 screws,
perTableR804.3.1.1(9)
Evenly spaced, not less than 7 2 " from all edges
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
a. Screws shall be applied through the flanges of the truss or ceiling joist or a 54-mil clip angle shall be used with two No. 10 screws in each leg. See Section
R804.3.9 for additional requirements to resist uplift forces.
b. Spacing of fasteners on roof sheathing panel edges applies to panel edges supported by framing members and at all roof plane perimeters. Blocking of roof
sheathing panel edges perpendicular to the framing members shall not be required except at the intersection of adjacent roof planes. Roof perimeter shall be
supported by framing members or cold-formed blocking of the same depth and gage as the floor members.
TABLE R804.3.1. 1(1)
CEILING JOIST SPANS
SINGLE SPANS WITH BEARING STIFFENERS
10 PSF LIVE LOAD (NO ATTIC STORAGE) 2 bc 33 KSI STEEL
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
ALLOWABLE SPAN (feet-inches)
Lateral Support of Top (Compression) Flange
Unbraced
Mid-span Bracing
Third-point Bracing
Ceiling Joist Spacing (inches)
16
24
16
24
16
24
350S162-33
9'-5"
8'-6"
12'-2"
10'-4"
12'-2"
10'-7"
350S 162-43
10'-3"
9'-2"
12'- 10"
11 '-2"
12'- 10"
ll'-2"
350S 162-54
ll'-l"
9'-ll"
13'-9"
12'-0"
13'-9"
12'-0"
350S 162-68
12'-l"
10'-9"
14'-8"
12'- 10"
14'-8"
12'- 10"
350S 162-97
l4'-4"
12'-7"
16'-4"
14'-3"
16'-4"
14'-3"
550S 162-33
10'-7"
9'-6"
14'-10"
12'- 10"
15'-11"
13'-4"
550S 162-43
11 '-8"
10'-6"
16'-4"
14'-3"
17'- 10"
15'-3"
550S 162-54
12'-6"
11 '-2"
17'-7"
15'-7"
19'-5"
16'- 10"
550S 162-68
13'-6"
12'- 1"
19'-2"
17'-1"
21 '-0"
18'-4"
550S 162-97
15'-9"
13'- 11"
21 '-8"
19'-3"
23'-5"
20'-5"
800S 162-33
12'-2"
10'- 11"
17'-8"
15'-10"
19'- 10"
17'-)"
800S 162-43
13'-0"
1 1'-9"
18'- 10"
17'-0"
21 '-6"
19'-1"
800S 162-54
13'- 10"
12'-5"
20'-0"
18'-0"
22'-9"
20'-4"
800S 162-68
14'-11"
13'-4"
21 '-3"
19'- 1"
24'- 1"
21 '-8"
800S 162-97
17'- 1"
15'-2"
23'- 10"
21 '-3"
26'-7"
23'- 10"
1000S 162-43
13'-11"
12'-6"
20'-2"
18'-3"
23'- 1"
20'-9"
1000S 162-54
14'-9"
13'-3"
21 '-4"
19'-3"
24'-4"
22'-0"
1000S 162-68
15'- 10"
14'-2"
22'-8"
20'-5"
25'-9"
23'-2"
1000S 162-97
18'-0"
16'-0"
25'-3"
22'-7"
28'-3"
25'-4"
1200S 162-43
14'-8"
13'-3"
21/-4"
19'-3"
24'-5"
21'-8"
1200S 162-54
15'-7"
14'-0"
22'-6"
20'-4"
25'-9"
23'-2"
1200S 162-68
16'-8"
14'-11"
23'- 11"
21'-6"
27'-2"
24'-6"
1200S 162-97
18'-9"
16'-9"
26'-6"
23'-8"
29'-9"
26'-9"
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Deflection criterion: 1/240 for total loads.
b. Ceiling dead load = 5 psf.
c. Bearing stiffeners are required at all bearing points and concentrated load locations.
410
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R804.3.1. 1(2)
CEILING JOIST SPANS
TWO EQUAL SPANS WITH BEARING STIFFENERS
10 PSF LIVE LOAD (NO ATTIC STORAGE)"' bc 33 KSI STEEL
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
ALLOWABLE SPAN (feet-inches)
Lateral Support of Top (Compression) Flange
Unbraced
Mid-span Bracing
Third-point Bracing
Ceiling Joist Spacing (inches)
16
24
16
24
16
24
350S 162-33
12'-11"
lO'-ll"
13'-5"
lO'-ll"
!3'-5"
lO'-ll"
350S 162-43
14'-2"
12'-8"
15'- 10"
12'-11"
15'- 10"
12'-11"
350S 162-54
15'-6"
13'- 10"
17'-1"
14'-6"
17'-9"
!4'-6"
350S 162-68
17-3"
15'-3"
18'-6"
16'-1"
19'-8"
16'-1"
350S 162-97
20'- 10"
18'-4"
21'-5"
18'- 10"
21'-11"
18'-10"
550S 162-33
14'-4"
12'-11"
16'-7"
14'- 1"
17-3"
14'-1"
550S 162-43
16'-0"
14'-l"
17'-11"
16'-1"
20'-7"
16'-10"
550S 162-54
1T-4"
15'-6"
19'-5"
17'-6"
23'-2"
19'-0"
550S 162-68
19'-1"
16'-11"
20'-10"
18'-8"
25'-2"
21'-5"
550S 162-97
22'-8"
19'-9"
23'-6"
20'- 11"
27'-ll"
25'- 1"
800S162-33
16'-5"
14'-10"
19'-2"
17'-3"
23'-l"
18'-3"
800S 162-43
17'-9"
15'-11"
20'-6"
18'-5"
25'-0"
22'-6"
800S 162-54
19'-1"
17'-1"
21'-8"
19'-6"
26'-4"
23'-9"
800S 162-68
20'-9"
18'-6"
23'- 1"
20'-9"
28'-0"
25'-2"
800S 162-97
24'-5"
21'-6"
26'-0"
23'-2"
31'-1"
27'-9"
1000S 162-43
18'- 11"
17'-0"
21'-11"
19'-9"
26'-8"
24'- 1"
1000S 162-54
20'-3"
18'-2"
23'-2"
20'- 10"
28'-2"
25'-5"
1000S162-68
21'-11"
19'-7"
24'-7"
22'-2"
29'- 10"
26'-ll"
1000S 162-97
25'-7"
22'-7"
27'-6"
24'-6"
33'-0"
29'-7"
1200S 162-43
19'-11"
17'- 11"
23'- 1"
20'- 10"
28'-3"
25'-6"
1200S 162-54
21 '-3"
19'-1"
24'-5"
22'-0"
29'-9"
26'- 10"
1200S 162-68
23'-0"
20'-7"
25'- 11"
23'-4"
31'-6"
28'-4"
1200S 162-97
26'-7"
23'-6"
28'-9"
25'- 10"
34'-8"
31'-1"
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240 for total loads.
b. Ceiling dead load = 5 psf.
c. Bearing stiffeners are required at all bearing points and concentrated load locations.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
411
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R804.3.1. 1(3)
CEILING JOIST SPANS
SINGLE SPANS WITH BEARING STIFFENERS
20 PSF LIVE LOAD (LIMITED ATTIC STORAGE) 3 bc 33 KSI STEEL
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
ALLOWABLE SPAN (feet-inches)
Lateral Support of Top (Compression) Flange
Unbraced
Mid-span Bracing
Third-point Bracing
Ceiling Joist Spacing (inches)
16
24
16
24
16
24
350S162-33
8'-2"
7'-2"
9'-9"
8'-l"
9'-ll"
8'-l"
350S 162-43
8'- 10"
7'-10"
ll'-O"
9'-5"
ll'-O"
9'-7"
350S 162-54
9'-6"
8'-6"
11 '-9"
10'-3"
11 '-9"
10'-3"
350S 162-68
10'-4"
9'-2"
12'-7"
ll'-O"
12'-7"
ll'-O"
350S162-97
12'-1"
10'-8"
14'-0"
12' 0"
14'-0"
12'-0"
550S 162-33
9'-2"
8'-3"
12'-2"
10'-2"
12'-6"
10'-5"
550S 162-43
lO'-l"
9'-l"
13'-7"
11 '-7"
14'-5"
12'-2"
550S162-54
10'-9"
9'-8"
14'-10"
12'- 10"
15'- 11"
13'-6"
550S 162-68
11 '-7"
10'-4"
16'-4"
14'-0"
17'-5"
14'- 11"
550S162-97
13'-4"
ll'-lO"
18'-5"
16'-2"
20'- 1"
17'-1"
800S 162-33
10'-7"
9'-6"
15'-1"
13'-0"
16'-2"
13'-7"
800S 162-43
11/-4"
10'-2"
16'-5"
14'-6"
18'-2"
15'-9"
800S 162-54
12'-0"
10'-9"
17'-4"
15'-6"
19'-6"
17'-0"
800S162-68
12'-10"
11 '-6"
18'-5"
16'-6"
20'- 10"
18'-3"
800S 162-97
14'-7"
12'-11"
20'-5"
18'-3"
22'- 11"
20'-5"
1000S 162-43
12'-1"
10'- 11"
17'-7"
15'- 10"
19'- 11"
17'-3"
1000S 162-54
12'- 10"
11' 6"
18'-7"
16'-9"
21'-2"
18'- 10"
1000S 162-68
13'-8"
12'-3"
19'-8"
17'-8"
22'-4"
20'-l"
1000S 162-97
15'-4"
13'-8"
21 '-8"
19'-5"
24'-5"
21'-11"
1200S162-43
12'-9"
11 '-6"
18'-7"
16'-6"
20'-9"
18'-2"
1200S 162-54
13'-6"
12'-2"
19'-7"
17'-8"
22'-5"
20'-2"
1200S 162-68
14'-4"
12'- 11"
20'-9"
18'-8"
23'-7"
21'-3"
1200S 162-97
16'-1"
14'-4"
22'- 10"
20'-6"
25'-9"
23'-2"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm,
a. Deflection criterion: L/240 for total loads.
b. Ceiling dead load = 5 psf.
c. Bearing stiffeners are required at all bearin:
1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
points and concentrated load locations.
412
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R804.3.1. 1(4)
CEILING JOIST SPANS
TWO EQUAL SPANS WITH BEARING STIFFENERS
20 PSF LIVE LOAD (LIMITED ATTIC STORAGE) 3 bc 33 KSI STEEL
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
ALLOWABLE SPAN (feet-inches)
Lateral Support of Top (Compression) Flange
Unbraced
Mid-span Bracing
Third-point Bracing
Ceiling Joist Spacing (inches)
16
24
16
24
16
24
350SI62-33
10'-2"
8'-4"
10'-2"
8'-4"
10'-2"
8'-4"
350S 162-43
12'-1"
9'- 10"
12'- 1"
9'- 10"
12'-1"
9'- 10"
350S 162-54
13'-3"
ll'-O"
13'-6"
ll'-O"
13'-6"
ll'-O"
350S 162-68
14'-7"
12'-3"
15'-0"
12'-3"
15'-0"
12'-3"
350S 162-97
17'-6"
14'-3"
17'-6"
14'-3"
17'-6"
14'-3"
550S1 62-33
L2'-5"
10'-9"
13'-2"
10'-9"
13'-2"
10'-9"
550S 162-43
1 3'-7"
12'-1"
15'-6"
12'-9"
15'-8"
12'-9"
550S 162-54
14'-11"
13'-4"
16'- 10"
14'-5"
17'-9"
14'-5"
550S 162-68
16'-3"
14'-5"
18'-0"
16'-1"
20'-0"
16'-4"
550S 162-97
19'-1"
16'- 10"
20'-3"
18'-0"
23'- 10"
19'-5"
800S 162-33
14'-3"
12'-4"
16'-7"
12'-4"
16'-7"
12'-4"
800S 162-43
15'-4"
13'- 10"
17'-9"
16'-0"
21 '-8"
17'-9"
800S 162-54
16'-5"
14'-9"
18'- 10"
16'-11"
22'- 11"
20'-6"
800S 162-68
17'-9"
15'-11"
20'-0"
18'-0"
24'-3"
21'- 10"
800S 162-97
20'-8"
18'-3"
22'-3"
19'-11"
26'-9"
24'-0"
1000S 162-43
l6'-5"
14'-9"
19'-0"
17'-2"
23'-3"
18'-11"
1000S 162-54
17'-6"
15'-8"
20'- 1"
18'- 1"
24'-6"
22'- 1"
1000S 162-68
18'- 10"
16'- 10"
21 '-4"
19'-2"
25'-ll"
23'-4"
1000S 162-97
21 '-8"
19'-3"
23'-7"
21 '-2"
28'-5"
25'-6"
1200S 162-43
17'-3"
15'-7"
20'- 1"
18'-2"
24'-6"
18'-3"
1200S 162-54
18 '-5"
16'-6"
21 '-3"
19'-2"
25 '-11"
23'-5"
1200S 162-68
19'-9"
17'-8"
22'-6"
20'-3"
27'-4"
24'-8"
1200S 162-97
22'-7"
20'- 1"
24'- 10"
22'-3"
29'- 11"
26'- 11"
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240 for total loads.
b. Ceiling dead load = 5 psf.
c. Bearing stiffeners are required at all bearing points and concentrated load locations.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE"
413
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLER804.3.1.1(5)
CEILING JOIST SPANS
SINGLE SPANS WITHOUT BEARING STIFFENERS
10 PSF LIVE LOAD (NO ATTIC STORAGE)" "33 KSI STEEL
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
ALLOWABLE SPAN (feet-Inches)
Lateral Support of Top (Compression) Flange
Unbraced
Mid-span Bracing
Third-point Bracing
Celling Joist Spacing (inches)
16
24
16
24
16
24
350S 162-33
9'-5"
8'-6"
12'-2"
10'-4"
12'-2"
10'-7"
350S 162-43
10'-3"
9'-12"
13'-2"
11 '-6"
13'-2"
ll'-6"
350S 162-54
ll'-l"
9'. 11"
13'-9"
12'-0"
13'-9"
12'-0"
350S 162-68
l2'-l"
10'-9"
14'-8"
12'-10"
14'-8"
12'- 10"
350S 162-97
14'-4"
12'-7"
16'- 10"
14'-3"
16'-4"
14'-3"
550S 162-33
l0'-7"
9'-6"
14'- 10"
12'- 10"
15'-11"
13'-4"
550S 162-43
ll'-8"
1 0'-6"
16'-4"
14'-3"
17'-10"
15'-3"
550S 162-54
12'-6"
11 '-2"
17'-7"
15'-7"
19'-5"
16'-10"
550S 162-68
13'-6"
12'-1"
19'-2"
17'-0"
21'-0"
18'-4"
550S 162-97
15'-9"
13'-11"
21 '-8"
19'-3"
23'-5"
20'-5"
800S 162-33
—
—
—
—
— -
—
800S 162-43
13'-0"
11 '-9"
18'-10"
17'-0"
21/-6"
19'-0"
800S 162-54
13'- 10"
12'-5"
2O'-0"
18'-0"
22'-9"
20'-4"
800S 162-68
14'-11"
13'-4"
21 '-3"
19'-1"
24'- 1"
2T-8"
800S 162-97
17'- 1"
15'-2"
23'- 10"
21 '-3"
26'-7"
23'-10"
1000S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
1000S 162-54
14'-9"
13'-3"
21 '-4"
19'-3"
24'-4"
22'-0"
1000S162-68
15'- 10"
14'-2"
22'-8"
20'-5"
25'-9"
23'-2"
1000S 162-97
18'-0"
16'-0"
25'-3"
22'-7"
28'-3"
25'-4"
1200S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
1200S 162-54
—
—
—
—
—
—
1200S162-68
16'-8"
14'- 11"
23'- 11"
21 '-6"
27'-2"
24'-6"
1200S 162-97
18'-9"
16'-9"
26'-6"
23'-8"
29'-9"
26'-9"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm,
a. Deflection criterion: L/240 for total loads.
b. Ceiling dead load = 5 psf.
1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
414
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R804.3.1.1(6)
CEILING JOIST SPANS
TWO EQUAL SPANS WITHOUT BEARING STIFFENERS
10 PSF LIVE LOAD (NO ATTIC STORAGE) » 33 KSI STEEL
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
ALLOWABLE SPAN (feet-inches)
Lateral Support of Top (Compression) Flange
Unbraced
Mid-span Bracing
Third-point Bracing
Ceiling Joist Spacing (inches)
16
24
16
24
16
24
350S1 62-33
1 1'_ 9 "
8'-ll"
1 1'-9"
8'- 11"
11 '-9"
8'-ll"
350S 162-43
14'-2"
11 '-7"
WAV
11 '-7"
14'-11"
11 '-7"
350S162-54
15'-6"
13'- 10"
IT -I"
13'- 10"
17'-7"
13'- 10"
350S 162-68
17'-3"
15'-3"
18'-6"
16'-1"
19'-8"
16'-1"
350S 162-97
20'- 10"
18'-4"
21/-5"
18'-9"
21 '-11"
18'-9"
550S 162-33
13'-4"
9'-ll"
13'-4"
9'-ll"
13'-4"
9'-ll"
550S 162-43
16'-0"
13'-6"
17'-9"
13'-6"
17'-9"
13'-6"
550S 162-54
1 7-4"
15'-6"
19'-5"
16'- 10"
21 '-9"
16'- 10"
550S 162-68
19'-1"
16'-11"
20'-10"
18'-8"
24'-ll"
20'-6"
550S 162-97
22'-8"
20'-0"
23'-9"
21/-1"
28'-2"
25'-l"
800S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
800S 162-43
17'-9"
15'-7"
20'-6"
15'-7"
21'-0"
15'-7"
800S 162-54
I9'-1"
17'- 1"
21 '-8"
19'-6"
26'-4"
23'- 10"
800S 162-68
20'-9"
I8'-6"
23'- 1"
20'-9"
28'-0"
25'-2"
800S 162-97
24'-5"
21 '-6"
26'-0"
23'-2"
31/-1"
27'-9"
1000S 162-43
—
—
— -
—
—
—
1000S 162-54
20'-3"
1 8'-2"
23'-2"
20'- 10"
28'-2"
2) '-2"
1000S 162-68
21'- 11"
19'-7"
24'-7"
22'-2"
29'- 10"
26'- 11"
1000S 162-97
25'-7"
22'-7"
27'-6"
24'-6"
33'-0"
29'-7"
1200S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
1200S 162-54
—
—
—
—
—
—
1200S 162-68
23'-0"
20'-7"
25'- 11"
23'-4"
31'-6"
28'-4"
1200S 162-97
26'-7"
23'-6"
28'-9"
25'- 10"
34'-8"
3i'-l"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm,
a. Deflection criterion: L/240 for total loads.
b. Ceiling dead load = 5 psf.
1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
415
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R804.3.1. 1(7)
CEILING JOIST SPANS
SINGLE SPANS WITHOUT BEARING STIFFENERS
20 PSF LIVE LOAD (LIMITED ATTIC STORAGE)"' b 33 KSI STEEL
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
ALLOWABLE SPAN (feet-inches)
Lateral Support of Top (Compression) Flange
Unbraced
Mid-span Bracing
Third-point Bracing
Ceiling Joist Spacing (inches)
16
24
16
24
16
24
350S162-33
8'-2"
6'- 10"
9'-9"
6'-10"
9'-11"
6'- 10"
350S 162-43
8'- 10"
7'- 10"
ll'-O"
9'-5"
ll'-O"
9'-7"
350S 162-54
9'-6"
8'-6"
1 1'-9"
10'-3"
11 '-9"
10'-3"
350S 162-68
10'-4"
9'-2"
12'-7"
ll'-O"
12'-7"
1 l'-O"
350S 162-97
12'- 10"
l0'-8"
13'-9"
12'-0"
13'-9"
l2'-0"
550S162-33
9'-2"
8'-3"
12'-2"
8'-5"
12'-6"
8'-5"
550S 162-43
10'- 1"
9'-l"
13'-7"
ll'-8"
14'-5"
12'-2"
550S 162-54
10'-9"
9'-8"
14'- 10"
12'- 10"
15'-11"
13'-6"
550S 162-68
ll'-7"
10'-4"
16'-4"
14'-0"
17'-5"
1.4'-11"
550S 162-97
13'-4"
ll'-lO"
18'-5"
16'-2"
20'- 1"
17'-4"
800S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
800S 162-43
11 '-4"
10'- 1"
16'-5"
J3'-6"
18'-1"
13'-6"
800S 162-54
20'-0"
10'-9"
17'-4"
15'-6"
19'-6"
27-0"
800S162-68
12'- 10"
ll'-6"
18'-5"
16'-6"
20'- 10"
18'-3"
800S 162-97
14'-7"
12'- 11"
20'-5"
18'-3"
22'- 11"
20'-5"
1000S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
1000S 162-54
12'- 10"
ll'-6"
18'-7"
16'-9"
21'-2"
15'-5"
1000S 162-68
13'-8"
12'-3"
19'-8"
17'-8"
22'-4"
20'- 1"
1000S 162-97
15'-4"
13'-8"
21 '-8"
19'-5"
24'-5"
21 '-11"
1200S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
1200S 162-54
—
—
—
—
—
—
1200S 162-68
14'-4"
12'- 11"
20'-9"
18'-8"
23'-7"
21 '-3"
1200S 162-97
16'-1"
14'-4"
22'- 10"
20'-6"
25'-9"
23'-2"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240 for total loads.
b. Ceiling dead load = 5 psf.
1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
416
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R804.3.1.1(8)
CEILING JOIST SPANS
TWO EQUAL SPANS WITHOUT BEARING STIFFENERS
20 PSF LIVE LOAD (LIMITED ATTIC STORAGE)"' b 33 KSI STEEL
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
ALLOWABLE SPAN (feet-inches)
Lateral Support of Top (Compression) Flange
Unbraced
Mid-span Bracing
Third-poi
nt Bracing
Ceiling Joist Spacing (inches)
16
24
16
24
16
24
350S 162-33
8'-l"
6'-l"
8'-l"
6'-l"
8'-l"
6'-l"
350S 162-43
10'-7"
8'-l"
10'-7"
8'-l"
10'-7"
8'-l"
350S 162-54
12'-8"
9'- 10"
12'-8"
9'-10"
12'-8"
9'- 10"
350S 162-68
14'-7"
11 '-10"
14'-11"
11 '-10"
14'-11"
ll'-10"
350S 162-97
17'-6"
14'-3"
17'-6"
14'-3"
17'-6"
l4'-3"
550S162-33
8'-ll"
6'-8"
8'- 11"
6'-8"
8'-ll"
6'-8"
550S 162-43
12'-3"
9'-2"
12'-3"
9'-2"
12'-3"
9'-2"
550S 162-54
14'- 11"
ll'-8"
15'-4"
11 '-8"
15'-4"
11 '-8"
550S 162-68
16'-3"
14'-5"
18'-0"
15 '-8"
18'- 10"
14'-7"
550S 162-97
19'- 1"
16'- 10"
20'-3"
18'-0"
23 '-9"
19'-5"
800S 162-33
—
—
—
—
—
—
800S 162-43
13'-11"
9'- 10"
13'-11"
9'- 10"
13'-11"
9'- 10"
800S 162-54
16'-5"
13'-9"
18'-8"
13'-9"
18' 8"
13'-9"
800S 162-68
17'-9"
15'- 11"
20'-0"
18'-0"
24'- 1"
18'-3"
800S 162-97
20'-8"
18'-3"
22'-3"
19'-11"
26'-9"
24'-0"
1000S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
1000S162-54
17'-6"
13'-11"
19'-1"
13'-11"
19'- 1"
13'-11"
1000S 162-68
18'- 10"
16'- 10"
21 '-4"
19'-2"
25'- 1 1"
19'-7"
1000S 162-97
21 '-8"
19'-3"
23'-7"
21 '-2"
28 '-5"
25'-6"
1200S 162-43
—
—
—
—
—
—
1200S 162-54
—
—
—
—
—
—
1200S 162-68
19'-9"
17'-8"
22'-6"
19'-8"
26'- 8"
19' 8"
1200S 162-97
22'-7"
20'- 1"
24'- 10"
22'-3"
29'- 1 1"
26'-ll"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Deflection criterion: L/240 for total loads.
b. Ceiling dead load = 5 psf.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE e
417
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R804.3.1. 1(9)
NUMBER OF SCREWS REQUIRED FOR CEILING JOIST TO ROOF RAFTER CONNECTION"
ROOF SLOPE
NUMBER OF SCREWS
Building width (feet)
24
28
32
36
40
Ground snow load (psf)
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
20
30
50
70
3/12
5
6
9
11
5
7
10
13
6
8
11
15
7
8
13
17
8
9
14
19
4/12
4
5
7
9
4
5
8
10
5
6
9
12
5
7
10
13
6
7
11
14
5/12
3
4
6
7
4
4
6
8
4
5
7
10
5
5
8
11
5
6
9
12
6/12
3
3
5
6
3
4
6
7
4
4
6
8
4
5
7
9
4
5
8
10
7/12
3
3
4
6
3
3
5
7
3
4
6
7
4
4
6
8
4
5
7
9
8/12
2
3
4
5
3
3
5
6
3
4
5
7
3
4
6
8
4
4
6
8
9/12
2
3
4
5
3
3
4
6
3
3
5
6
3
4
5
7
3
4
6
8
7
10/12
2
2
4
5
2
3
4
5
3
3
5
6
3
3
5
7
3
4
6
11/12
2
2
3
4
2
3
4
5
3
3
4
6
3
3
5
6
3
4
5
7
12/12
2
2
3
4
2
3
4
5
2
3
4
5
3
3
5
6
3
4
5
7
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479kPa.
a. Screws shall be No. 10.
CEILING JOIST
FASTEN RAFTER TO
CEILING JOIST WITH
MINIMUM NO. 10 SCREWS
AS REQUIRED OR THROUGH
CLIP ANGLE, PLATE OR OTHER
APPROVED CONNECTOR
LOAD-BEARING STUD
TRACK
FASTEN ROOF TO WALL
TRACK WITH 2-NO. 10
SCREWS THROUGH CEILING
JOIST FLANGES, 54-MIL CLIP
ANGLE (MINIMUM), STEEL
PLATE OR OTHER
APPROVED CONNECTOR
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
FIGURE R804.3.1. 1(1)
JOIST TO RAFTER CONNECTION
418
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 68
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
BEARING
STIFFENER
CEILING
JOIST
TRACK
RAFTER
4 NO. 10 SCREWS, EVENLY
SPACED, THROUGH WEB
STEFFENER AND CEILING
JOIST. (SCREWS PENETRATING
RAFTER AND CEILING JOIST
MEMBERS MAY COUNT
TOWARD HEEL JOIST
CONNECTION REQUIREMENTS)
LOAD-BEARING STUD
FIGURE R804.3.1. 1(2)
BEARING STIFFENER
ANCHORAGE AT
END IS REQUIRED
BRACING. USE 1 NO. 8 SCREW TO EACH JOIST
AT SPLICE LOCATIONS, EITHER LAP MEMBERS
AS SHOWN OR ABUT, WITH 2 NO. 8 SCREWS
EACH END OF EACH MEMBER.
CEILING FRAMING
MEMBERS. GYPSUM BOARD
ON BOTTOM CHORD NOT
SHOWN FOR CLARITY.
FIGURE R804.3.1 .4(1)
CEILING JOIST TOP FLANGE BRACING WITH C-SHAPE, TRACK OR COLD-ROLLED CHANNEL
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE" 8
419
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
R804.3.1.3 Ceiling joist bottom flange bracing. The
bottom flanges of ceiling joists shall be laterally braced
by the application of gypsum board or continuous steel
straps installed perpendicular to the joist run in accor-
dance with one of the following:
1. Gypsum board shall be fastened with No. 6
screws in accordance with Section R702.
2. Steel straps with a minimum size of 1 V 2 inches by
33 mils (38 mm by 0.84 mm) shall be installed at
a maximum spacing of 4 feet (1219 mm). Straps
shall be fastened to the bottom flange at each joist
with one No. 8 screw and shall be fastened to
blocking with two No. 8 screws. Blocking shall
be installed between joists at a maximum spacing
of 12 feet (3658 mm) measured along a line of
continuous strapping (perpendicular to the joist
run). Blocking shall also be located at the termi-
nation of all straps.
R804.3.1.4 Ceiling joist top flange bracing. The top
flanges of ceiling joists shall be laterally braced as
required by Tables R804.3.1.1(l) through
R804.3.1 .1(8), in accordance with one of the following:
1. Minimum 33-mil (0.84 mm) C-shaped member
in accordance with Figure R804.3.1.4(l).
2. Minimum 33-mil (0.84 mm) track section in
accordance with Figure R804.3.1.4(l).
3. Minimum 33-mil (0.84 mm) hat section in accor-
dance with Figure R804.3. 1 .4(1 ).
4. Minimum 54-mil (1.37 mm) l'/ 2 -inch cold-rolled
channel section in accordance with Figure
R804.3.1.4(l).
5. Minimum l'/ 2 -inch by 33-mil (38 mm by 0.84
mm) continuous steel strap in accordance with
Figure R804.3. 1.4(2).
Lateral bracing shall be installed perpendicular to
the ceiling joists and shall be fastened to the top flange
of each joist with one No. 8 screw. Blocking shall be
installed between joists in line with bracing at a maxi-
mum spacing of 12 feet (3658 mm) measured perpen-
dicular to the joists. Ends of lateral bracing shall be
attached to blocking or anchored to a stable building
component with two No. 8 screws.
R804.3.1.5 Ceiling joist splicing. Splices in ceiling
joists shall be permitted, if ceiling joist splices are sup-
ported at interior bearing points and are constructed in
accordance with Figure R804.3.1.5. The number of
screws on each side of the splice shall be the same as
required for the heel joint connection in Table
R804.3. 1.1(9).
R804.3.2 Roof rafters. Cold-formed steel roof rafters
shall be in accordance with this section.
R804.3.2.1 Minimum roof rafter sizes. Roof rafter
size and thickness shall be determined in accordance
with the limits set forth in Tables R804.3.2.1(l) and
R804.3.2.1(2) based on the horizontal projection of the
roof rafter span. For determination of roof rafter sizes,
reduction of roof spans shall be permitted when a roof
rafter support brace is installed in accordance with Sec-
tion R804. 3.2.2. The reduced roof rafter span shall be
taken as the larger of the distance from the roof rafter
support brace to the ridge or to the heel measured hori-
zontally.
For the purpose of determining roof rafter sizes in
Tables R804.3.2.1(l) and R804.3.2.1(2), wind speeds
shall be converted to equivalent ground snow loads in
accordance with Table R804.3.2.1 (3). Roof rafter sizes
shall be based on the higher of the ground snow load or
the equivalent snow load converted from the wind
speed.
R804.3.2.1.1 Eave overhang. Eave overhangs shall
not exceed 24 inches (610 mm) measured horizon-
tally.
R804.3.2.1.2 Rake overhangs. Rake overhangs
shall not exceed 12 inches (305 mm) measured hori-
zontally. Outlookers at gable endwalls shall be
installed in accordance with Figure R804.3.2. 1 .2.
R804.3.2.2 Roof rafter support brace. When used to
reduce roof rafter spans in determining roof rafter sizes,
a roof rafter support brace shall meet all of the follow-
ing conditions:
1. Minimum 350S 162-33 C-shaped brace member
with maximum length of 8 feet (2438 mm).
2. Minimum brace member slope of 45 degrees
(0.785 rad) to the horizontal.
3. Minimum connection of brace to a roof rafter and
ceiling joist with four No.10 screws at each end.
4. Maximum 6 inches (152 mm) between brace/
ceiling joist connection and load-bearing wall
below.
5. Each roof rafter support brace greater than 4 feet
(1219 mm) in length, shall be braced with a sup-
plemental brace having a minimum size of
350S 162-33 or 350T1 62-33 such that the maxi-
mum unsupported length of the roof rafter sup-
port brace is 4 feet (1219 mm). The supplemental
brace shall be continuous and shall be connected
to each roof rafter support brace using two No.8
screws.
420
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
ANCHORAGE AT
END IS REQUIRED
STRAP BRACING, INSTALL TAUT,
USE 1 NO. 8 SCREW TO EACH JOIST.
SHORT SEGMENT OF
STUD OR TRACK
USED AS BLOCKING:
AT STRAP SPLICE
LOCATIONS, AT ENDS,
AND AT MAX. 12FTO.C.
For SI: ! foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R804.3. 1.4(2)
CEILING JOIST TOP FLANGE BRACING WITH CONTINUOUS STEEL STRAP AND BLOCKING
CEILING JOIST
NUMBER OF SCREWS
ON EACH SIDE OF
SPLICE SHALL BE THE
SAME AS REQUIRED
FOR THE HEEL JOINT
CONNECTION
C-SHAPE OR TRACK
SECTION WITH
MINIMUM SIZE AND
THICKNESS AS
CEILING JOIST
CEILING JOIST
TRACK
LOAD-BEARING STUD
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R804.3.1.5
SPLICED CEILING JOISTS
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
421
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R804.3.2.1(1)
ROOF RAFTER SPANS 8 ' bc
33 KSI STEEL
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
ALLOWABLE SPAN MEASURED HORIZONTALLY (feet-inches)
Ground snow load (psf)
20
30
50
70
Rafter spacing (inches)
16
24
16
24
16
24
16
24
550S162-33
14'-0"
11 '-6"
ll'-ll"
9'-7"
9'-6"
7'-9"
8'-2"
6'-8"
550S162-43
16'-8"
13'- 11"
14'-5"
11 '-9"
ll'-6"
9'-5"
9'- 10"
8'-0"
550S162-54
17'-11"
15'-7"
15'-7"
13'-3"
12'-11"
10'-7"
11'- 1"
9'-l"
550S1 62-68
19'-2"
16'-9"
16'-9"
14'-7"
14'-1"
ll'-lO"
12'-6"
10'-2"
550S1 62-97
21'-3"
18'-6"
18'-6"
16'-2"
15'-8"
13'-8"
14'-0"
12'-2"
800S 162-33
16'-5"
13'-5"
13'- 11"
11 '-4"
11' l"
8'-2"
9'-0"
6'-0"
800S 162-43
19'-9"
16'-1"
16'-8"
I3'-7"
13'-4"
10'- 10"
11 '-5"
9'-4"
800S 162-54
22'-8"
18'-6"
19'-2"
15'-8"
15'-4"
12'-6"
13'-1"
10'-8"
800S 162-68
25'- 10"
21 '-2"
21'- 11"
17'- 10"
17'-6"
14'-4"
15'-0"
12'-3"
800S 162-97
21 '-3"
18'-6"
18'-6"
16'-2"
15'-8"
13'-8"
14'-0"
12'-2"
1000S 1 62 43
22'-3"
18'-2"
18'-9"
15'-8"
15'-0"
12'-3"
12'- 10"
10'-6"
1000S 162-54
25'-8"
20'- 11"
21'-8"
17'-9"
17'-4"
14'-2"
14'- 10"
12'-]"
1000S 162-68
29'-7"
24'-2"
25'-0"
20'-5"
20'-0"
16'-4"
17'-2"
14'-0"
1000S 162-97
34'-8"
30'-4"
30'-4"
25 '-10"
25'-3"
20'- 8"
21'-8"
17'-8"
1200S 162-54
28'-3"
23 '-1"
23'- 11"
19'-7"
19'-2"
15'-7"
16'-5"
13'-5"
1200S 162-68
32'- 10"
26'- 10"
27'-9"
22'-8"
22'-2"
18'-1"
19'-0"
15'-6"
1200S 162-97
40'-6"
33'-5"
34'-6"
28'-3"
27'-7"
22'-7"
23'-8"
19'-4"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Table provides maximum horizontal rafter spans in feet and inches for slopes between 3:12
b. Deflection criterion: Z7240 for live loads and L/180 for total loads.
c. Roof dead load = 12 psf.
and 12:12.
422
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLER804.3.2.1(2)
ROOF RAFTER SPANS" 5 ■'
50 KSI STEEL
MEMBER
DESIGNATION
ALLOWABLE SPAN MEASURED HORIZONTALLY (feet-inches)
Equivalent ground snow load (psf)
20
30
50
70
Rafter spacing (inches)
16
24
16
24
16
24
16
24
550S 162-33
l5'-4"
1 2' 11"
13'-4"
lO'-ll"
10'-9"
8'-9"
9'-2"
7'-6"
550S 162-43
16'-8"
14'-7"
14'-7"
12'-9"
l2'-3"
10'-6"
11 '-0"
9'-0"
550S162-54
17'-11"
15'-7"
15'-7"
13'-8"
13'-2"
11 '-(,"
11 '-9"
10'-3"
550S1 62-68
19'-2"
16'-9"
16'-9"
14'-7"
14'- 1"
12'-4"
12'-7"
11 '-0"
550S 162-97
21'-3"
18'-6"
18'-6"
16'-2"
15'-8"
13'-8"
14'-0"
l2'-3"
800S 162-33
18'-10"
15'-5"
15'-11"
12'-9"
12'-3"
8'-2"
9'-0"
6'-0"
800S 162-43
22'-3"
18'-2"
18'- 10"
15'-5"
15'-1"
12'-3"
12'-11"
10'-6"
800S 162-54
24'-2"
21 '-2"
21'-1"
18'-5"
17'- 10"
^ 14'-8"
15'-5"
12'-7"
800S 162-68
25'- 1 1"
22'-8"
22'-8"
19'-9"
19'-1"
16'-8"
17'-1"
14'-9"
800S 162-97
28'-10"
25 '-2"
25'-2"
22'-0"
21 '-2"
18'-6"
19'-0"
16'-7"
1000S 162-43
25'-2"
20'-7"
21 '-4"
17'-5"
17'-0"
13'-11"
14'-7"
10'-7"
1000S 162-54
29'-0"
24'-6"
25'-4"
20'-9"
20'-3"
16'-7"
17'-5"
14'-2"
1000S 162-68
31 '-2"
27'-3"
27'-3"
23'-9"
20'-0"
19'-6"
20'-6"
16'-8"
1000S 162-97
34'-8"
30'-4"
30'-4"
26'-5"
25'-7"
22'-4"
22'- 10"
20'-0"
1200S 162-54
33'-2"
27'- 1"
28'- 1"
22'- 11"
22'-5"
18'-4"
19'-3"
15'-8"
1200S162-68
36'-4"
31 '-9"
31 '-9"
27'-0"
26'-5"
21 '-6"
22'-6"
18'-6"
1200S 162-97
40'-6"
35'-4"
35'-4"
30'- 11"
29'- 10"
26'- 1"
26'-8"
23'- 1"
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Table provides maximum horizontal rafter spans in feet and inches for slopes between 3:12 and 12: 12.
b. Deflection criterion: L/240 for live loads and t/180 for total loads.
c. Roof dead load = 12 psf.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
423
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R804.3.2.1(3)
BASIC WIND SPEED TO EQUIVALENT SNOW LOAD CONVERSION
BASIC WIND SPEED
EQUIVALENT GROUND SNOW LOAD (pst)
AND EXPOSURE
Roof slope
Exp. B
Exp. C
3:12
4:12
5:12
6:12
7:12
8:12
9:12
10:12
11:12
12:12
85 mph
—
20
20
20
20 1
20
20
30
30
30
30
100 mph
85 mph
20
20
20
20
30
30
30
30
50
50
110 mph
100 mph
20
20
20
20
30
50
50
50
50
50
—
110 mph
30
30
30
50
50
50
70
70
70
—
For SI: 1 mile per hour = 0.447 in/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
OPTION #1
1 FT MAX
350S 162-33 BLOCKING -
BETWEEN OUTLOOKERS
WITH #8 SCREWS @ 6 IN.
O.C. TO WALL TRACK
(MIN. 3 SCREWS EACH)
4 - #8 SCREWS
(OUTLOOKER TO
WALL TRACK)
WALL SHEATHING
GABLE END
WALL STUDS
#8 SCREWS
@ 6 IN. O.C.
CLIP ANGLE
WITH 2 - #8
SCREWS EACH
LEG
ROOF RAFTER
350S1 62-33 (WITH
WEB HOLES)
OUTLOOK RAFTERS
ALIGN WITH EACH
GABLE WALL STUD
OPTION #2
350S 162-33 OUTLOOKERS
@ 2 FT O.C. WITH
CONTINUOUS
TRACK EACH END
2 - #8 SCREWS
TO EACH STUD
WALL SHEATHING
1 FT MIN
- #8 SCREWS® 6 IN. O.C.
GABLE END
WALL STUDS
" *
ROOF RAFTER
NOTE: ROOF SHEATHING JOINTS PARALLEL
TO THE GABLE ENDWALLARE NOT PERMITTED
IN THIS REGION UNLESS AN APPROVED
TENSION TIE IS PROVIDED.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R804.3.2.1. 2
GABLE ENDWALL OVERHANG DETAILS
424
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
R804.3.2.3 Roof rafter splice. Roof rafters shall not be
spliced.
R804.3.2.4 Roof rafter to ceiling joist and ridge
member connection. Roof rafters shall be connected to
a parallel ceiling joist to form a continuous tie between
exterior walls in accordance with Figure R804.3.1.1(l)
or R804.3. 1.1(2) and Table R804.3. 1.1(9). Ceiling
joists shall be connected to the top track of the load-
bearing wall in accordance with Table R804.3, either
with two No. 10 screws applied through the flange of
the ceiling joist or by using a 54-mil (1.37 mm) clip
angle with two No. 10 screws in each leg. Roof rafters
shall be connected to a ridge member with a minimum
2-inch by 2-inch (5 1 mm by 5 1 mm) clip angle fastened
with No. 10 screws to the ridge member in accordance
with Figure R804.3.2.4 and Table R804.3.2.4. The clip
angle shall have a steel thickness equivalent to or
greater than the roof rafter thickness and shall extend
the depth of the roof rafter member to the extent possi-
ble. The ridge member shall be fabricated from a C-
shaped member and a track section, which shall have a
minimum size and steel thickness equivalent to or
greater than that of adjacent roof rafters and shall be
installed in accordance with Figure R804.3.2.4. The
ridge member shall extend the full depth of the sloped
roof rafter cut.
R804.3.2.5 Roof rafter bottom flange bracing. The
bottom flanges of roof rafters shall be continuously
braced, at a maximum spacing of 8 feet (2440 mm) as
measured parallel to the roof rafters, with one of the
following members:
1. Minimum 33-mil (0.84 mm) C-shaped member.
2. Minimum 33-mil (0.84 mm) track section.
3. Minimum l'/ 2 -inch by 33-mil (38 mm by 0.84
mm) steel strap.
The bracing element shall be fastened to the bottom
flange of each roof rafter with one No. 8 screw and
CLIP ANGLE
RAFTER
(TYP.
NO. 10 SCREWS IN EACH
LEG OF CLIP ANGLE
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
HIP MEMBER OR RIDGE
MEMBER: C-SHAPE INSIDE
A TRACK SECTION FASTENED
WITH NO. 10SCREWSAT24IN.
O.C. THROUGH TOP AND
BOTTOM FLANGES
FIGURE R804.3.2.4
HIP MEMBER OR RIDGE MEMBER CONNECTION
TABLE R804.3.2.4
SCREWS REQUIRED AT EACH LEG OF CLIP ANGLE FOR HIP RAFTER
TO HIP MEMBER OR ROOF RAFTER TO RIDGE MEMBER CONNECTION 3
BUILDING WIDTH (feet)
NUMBER OF SCREWS
Ground snow load (psf)
0to20
21 to 30
31 to 50
51 to 70
24
2
2
3
4
28
2
3
4
5
32
2
3
4
5
36
3
3
5
6
40
3
4
5
7
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Screws shall be No. 10 minimum.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
425
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
shall be fastened to blocking with two No. 8 screws.
Blocking shall be installed between roof rafters in-line
with the continuous bracing at a maximum spacing of
12 feet (3658 mm) measured perpendicular to the roof
rafters. The ends of continuous bracing shall be fas-
tened to blocking or anchored to a stable building com-
ponent with two No. 8 screws.
R804.3.3 Hip framing. Hip framing shall consist of jack-
rafters, hip members, hip support columns and connec-
tions in accordance with this section, or shall be in accor-
dance with an approved design. The provisions of this
section for hip members and hip support columns shall
apply only where the jack rafter slope is greater than or
equal to the roof slope. For the purposes of determining
member sizes in this section, wind speeds shall be con-
verted to equivalent ground snow load in accordance with
Table R804.3.2. 1(3).
R804.3.3.1 Jack rafters. Jack rafters shall meet the
requirements for roof rafters in accordance with Sec-
tion R804.3.2, except that the requirements in Section
R804.3.2.4 shall not apply.
R804.3.3.2 Hip members. Hip members shall be fabri-
cated from C-shape members and track section, which
shall have minimum sizes determined in accordance
with Table R804.3.3.2. The C-shape member and track
section shall be connected at a maximum spacing of 24
inches (610 mm) using No. 10 screws through top and
bottom flanges in accordance with Figure R804.3.2.4.
The depth of the hip member shall match that of the
roof rafters and jack rafters, or shall be based on an
approved design for a beam pocket at the corner of the
supporting wall.
R804.3.3.3 Hip support columns. Hip support col-
umns shall be used to support hip members at the ridge.
A hip support column shall consist of a pair of C-shape
members, with a minimum size determined in accor-
dance with Table R804.3.3.3. The C-shape members
shall be connected at a maximum spacing of 24 inches
(610 mm) on center to form a box using minimum 3-
inch by 33-mil (76 mm by 0.84 mm) strap connected to
each of the flanges of the C-shape members with three-
No. 10 screws. Hip support columns shall have a con-
tinuous load path to the foundation and shall be sup-
ported at the ceiling line by an interior wall or by an
approved design for a supporting element.
TABLE R804.3.3.2
HIP MEMBER SIZES, 33 ksi STEEL
BUILDING WIDTH
(feet)
HIP MEMBER DESIGNATION"
Equivalent ground snow load (psf)
0to20
21 to 30
31 to 50
51 to 70
24
800S 162-68
800T150-68
800S 162-68
800T150-68
800S 162-97
800T150-97
1000S 162-97
1000T150-97
28
1000S 162-68
1000T150-68
1000S 162-68
1000T150-68
1000S 162-97
1000T150-97
1200S 162-97
1200T150-97
32
1000S 162-97
1000T150-97
1000S 162-97
1000T1 50-97
1200S 162-97
1200T 150-97
—
36
1200S 162-97
1200T 150-97
40
—
—
—
—
For SI: I foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. The web depth of the roof rafters and jack rafters is to match at the hip or they shall be installed in accordance with an approved design.
TABLE R804.3.3.3
HIP SUPPORT COLUMN SIZES
BUILDING WIDTH
(feet)
HIP SUPPORT COLUMN DESIGNATION" »
Equivalent ground snow load (psf)
0to20
21 to 30
31 to 50
51 to 70
24
2-350S 162-33
2-350S162-33
2-350S 162-43
2-350S 162-54
28
2-350S162-54
2-550S 162-54
2-550S 162-68
2-550S 162-68
32
2-550S 162-68
2-550S 162-68
2-550S 162-97
—
36
2-550S 162-97
—
—
—
40
—
—
—
—
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Box shape column only in accordance with Figure R804. 3.3.4(2).
b. 33-ksi steel for 33- and 43-mil material; 50-ksi steel for thicker material.
426
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
R804.3.3.4 Hip framing connections. Hip rafter fram-
ing connections shall be installed in accordance with
the following:
1. Jack rafters shall be connected at the eave to a
parallel C-shape blocking member in accordance
with Figure R804.3.3.4(l). The C-shape blocking
member shall be attached to the supporting wall
track with minimum two No. 10 screws.
2. Jack rafters shall be connected to a hip member
with a minimum 2-inch by 2-inch (51 mm by 51
mm) clip angle fastened with No. 10 screws to the
hip member in accordance with Figure
R804.3.2.4 and Table R804.3.2.4. The clip angle
shall have a steel thickness equivalent to or
greater than the jack rafter thickness and shall
extend the depth of the jack rafter member to the
extent possible.
3. The connection of the hip support columns at the
ceiling line shall be in accordance with Figure
R804.3.3.4(2), with an uplift strap sized in accor-
dance with Table R804.3.3.4(l).
4. The connection of hip support members, ridge
members and hip support columns at the ridge
shall be in accordance with Figures
R804.3.3.4(3) and R804.3.3.4(4) and Table
R804.3.3.4(2).
5. The connection of hip members to the wall corner
shall be in accordance with Figure R804.3. 3.4(5)
and Table R804.3.3.4(3).
R804.3.4 Cutting and notching. Flanges and lips of load-
bearing, cold-formed steel roof framing members shall not
be cut or notched.
R804.3.5 Headers. Roof-ceiling framing above wall
openings shall be supported on headers. The allowable
spans for headers in load-bearing walls shall not exceed
the values set forth in Section R603.6 and Tables
R603.6(l) through R603.6(24).
R804.3.6 Framing of openings in roofs and ceilings.
Openings in roofs and ceilings shall be framed with header
and trimmer joists. Header joist spans shall not exceed 4
feet (1219 mm) in length. Header and trimmer joists shall
be fabricated from joist and track members having a mini-
mum size and thickness at least equivalent to the adjacent
ceiling joists or roof rafters and shall be installed in accor-
dance with Figures R804.3.6(l) and R804.3.6(2). Each
header joist shall be connected to trimmer joists with a
minimum of four 2-inch by 2-inch (51 by 51 mm) clip
angles. Each clip angle shall be fastened to both the header
and trimmer joists with four No. 8 screws, evenly spaced,
through each leg of the clip angle. The steel thickness of
the clip angles shall be not less than that of the ceiling joist
or roof rafter. Each track section for a built-up header or
trimmer joist shall extend the full length of the joist (con-
tinuous).
R804.3.7 Roof trusses. Cold-formed steel trusses shall be
designed and installed in accordance with AISI SI 00, Sec-
tion D4. In the absence of specific bracing requirements,
trusses shall be braced in accordance with accepted indus-
try practices, such as the SBCA Cold-Formed Steel Build-
ing Component Safety Information (CFSBCSI) Guide to
Good Practice for Handling, Installing & Bracing of
Cold-Formed Steel Trusses. Trusses shall be connected to
the top track of the load-bearing wall in accordance with
Table R804.3, either with two No. 10 screws applied
through the flange of the truss or by using a 54-mil (1.37
mm) clip angle with two No. 1 screws in each leg.
R804.3.8 Ceiling and roof diaphragms. Ceiling and roof
diaphragms shall be in accordance with this section.
R804.3.8.1 Ceiling diaphragms. At gable endwalls a
ceiling diaphragm shall be provided by attaching a
minimum 7 2 -inch (12.7 mm) gypsum board in accor-
dance with Tables R804.3.8(l) and R804.3.8(2) or a
minimum 3 / g -inch (9.5 mm) wood structural panel
sheathing, which complies with Section R803, in accor-
dance with Table R804.3.8(3) to the bottom of ceiling
joists or roof trusses and connected to wall framing in
accordance with Figures R804.3.8(l) and R804.3.8(2),
unless studs are designed as full height without bracing
at the ceiling. Flat blocking shall consist of C-shape or
track section with a minimum thickness of 33 mils
(0.84 mm).
The ceiling diaphragm shall be secured with screws
spaced at a maximum 6 inches (152 mm) o.c. at panel
edges and a maximum 12 inches (305 mm) o.c. in the
field. Multiplying the required lengths in Tables
R804.3.8(l) and R804.3.8(2) for gypsum board
sheathed ceiling diaphragms shall be permitted to be
multiplied by 0.35 shall be permitted if all panel edges
are blocked. Multiplying the required lengths in Tables
R804.3.8(l) and R804.3.8(2) for gypsum board
sheathed ceiling diaphragms by 0.9 shall be permitted
if all panel edges are secured with screws spaced at 4
inches (102 mm) o.c.
R804.3.8.2 Roof diaphragm. A roof diaphragm shall
be provided by attaching a minimum of 3 / 8 -inch (9.5
mm) wood structural panel which complies with Sec-
tion R803 to roof rafters or truss top chords in accor-
dance with Table R804.3. Buildings with 3:1 or larger
plan aspect ratio and with roof rafter slope (pitch) of
9:12 or larger shall have the roof rafters and ceiling
joists blocked in accordance with Figure R804.3.8(3).
R804.3.9 Roof tie-down. Roof assemblies subject to wind
uplift pressures of 20 pounds per square foot (0.96 kPa) or
greater, as established in Table R301.2(2), shall have raf-
ter-to-bearing wall ties provided in accordance with Table
R802.ll.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
427
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R804.3.3.4(1)
UPLIFT STRAP CONNECTION REQUIREMENTS HIP SUPPORT COLUMN AT CEILING LINE
BUILDING WIDTH
(feet)
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph) EXPOSURE B
85
100
110
—
—
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph) EXPOSURE C
-
85
—
100
110
Number of No. 10 screws in each end of each 3-inch by 54-mil steel strap abc
24
3
4
4
6
7
28
4
6
6
8
10
32
5
8
8
11
13
36
7
10
11
14
17
40
—
—
—
—
—
For SI: 1 loot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
a. Two straps are required, one each side of the column.
b. Space screws at % inch on center and provide 3 / 4 -inch end distance.
c. 50-ksi steel strap.
4-#10 SCREWS
EVENLY SPACED
TYP. ROOF BLOCKING
DETAIL AND HOLDOWN
SHEATHING
TYP.
WALL STUD
TYP.
JACK RAFTER
TYP.
CEILING JOIST — '
TYP.
CONNECTION OF BLOCKING TO
JOIST W/ CLIP ANGLE OR BENT WEB
OF BLOCKING W/2-#8 SCREWS
C-SECTION BLOCKING AT
EACH JACK RAFTER
SAME MEMBER AS CEILING JOIST.
FIGURE R804.3.3.4(1)
JACK RAFTER CONNECTION AT EAVE
428
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILiNG CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R804.3.3.4(2)
CONNECTION REQUIREMENTS HIP MEMBER TO HIP SUPPORT COLUMN
BUILDING WIDTH
(feet)
NUMBER OF NO. 10 SCREWS IN EACH FRAMING ANGLE"" ■'
Equivalent ground snow load (psf)
0to20
21 to 30
31 to 50
51 to 70
24
10
10
10
12
28
10
10
14
18
32
10
12
—
—
36 "1
14
—
—
—
40
—
—
—
—
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Screws to be divided equally between the connection to the hip member and the column. Refer to Figures R804.3.3.4(3) and R804.3.3.4(4).
b. The number of screws required in each framing angle is not to be less than shown in Table R804.3.3.4( 1 ).
c. 50-ksi steel from the framing angle.
3 IN. x 33 MIL STRAP EACH
SIDE W/3-#10 SCREWS
TO EACH C-SECTION
SPACED AT 24 IN. O.C. FOR
FULL HEIGHT OF COLUMN
HIP SUPPORT COLUMN
TRACK SECTION BETWEEN
CEILING JOISTS, FASTEN
W/4-#10 SCREWS TO TOP
TRACK OF WALL BELOW
WALL TRACK
CEILING JOIST
3 IN. x 54-MIL STRAP EACH
SIDE W/#10 SCREWS
INTERIOR WALL STUD
HIP SUPPORT COLUMN
CONTINUING TO
FOUNDATION OR TOP
OF WALL BELOW
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm. 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
FIGURE R804.3.3.4(2)
HIP SUPPORT COLUMN
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
429
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
TABLE R804.3.3.4(3)
UPLIFT STRAP CONNECTION REQUIREMENTS HIP MEMBER TO WALL
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph) EXPOSURE B
BUILDING WIDTH
(feet)
85
100
110
—
—
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph) EXPOSURE C
—
85
—
100
110
Number of No. 10 screws in each end of each 3-inch by 54-mil steel strap'' M
24
2
2
3
3
4
28
2
3
3
4
5
32
3
4
4
6
7
36
3
5
5
7
8
40
—
—
—
—
—
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.
a. Two straps are required, one each side of the column.
b. Space screws at 3 / 4 inches on center and provide 3 / 4 -inch end distance.
c. 50-ksi steel strap.
RIDGE MEMBER
CONNECTIONS
HIP SUPPORT COLUMN
HOLD TOP OF COLUMN
BELOW ROOF SHEATHING
HIP MEMBER
FIGURE R804.3.3.4(3)
HIP CONNECTIONS AT RIDGE
430
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
^WORK POINTS,
BOX COLUMN
„ ty
54-MIL CLIP ANGLE
WORK POINT
MIN. OF 3— #10
SCREWS
EA. LOCATION
2"
3 BENT 54-MIL
CONNECTION E— ^
V.
RIDGE MEMBER
BOX COLUMN
VA" 54-MIL CLIP ANGLE
<L WORK POINTS,
OUTSIDE FACE
HIP MEMBER
HIP MEMBER
TYP. 2 PLACES
BENT 54-MIL
CONNECTION ft
OF
i. WORK POINT &
OUTSIDE FACE OF
HIP MEMBER
NOTE: RAFTERS NOT SHOWN FOR CLARITY
CONNECTION (ffi 3 1 / 2 " BOX COLUMN
i. WORK POINTS
BOX COLUMN
VA"/
54-MIL CLIP ANGLE
WORK POINT
MIN. OF 3^10
SCREWS
EA. LOCATION
A
/ ^£ WORK POINTS
OUTSIDE FACE OF
r/ ~Z. HIP MEMBER
HIP MEMBER
TYP. 2 PLACES
VA"
54-MIL CLIPANGLE
BENT 54-MIL
CONNECTION E 4y
\ /-<L WORK POINTS
OUTSIDE FAC
HIP MEMBER
V< OUTSIDE FACE OF
\3-
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
NOTE: RAFTERS NOT SHOWN FOR CLARITY
CONNECTION (® 5 1 / 2 " BOX COLUMN
FIGURE R804.3.3.4(4)
HIP CONNECTIONS AT RIDGE AND BOX COLUMN
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
431
ROOF-CEIUNG CONSTRUCTION
WEB STIFFENERS
(MATCH WALL STUDS)
EACH SIDE W/6 —#10 SCREWS
TOP TRACK W/2 —#10 SCREWS
HIP MEMBER
WALL TOP TRACK
TYP.
UPLIFT STRAP LOCATION
FIGURE R804.3.3.4(5)
HIP MEMBER CONNECTION AT WALL CORNER
HEADER
JOIST/RAFTER
(TYP.)
JOIST/RAFTER
CLIP ANGLE
(TYP.)
JOIST/RAFTER (TYP.)
TRIMMER
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R804.3.6(1)
ROOF OR CEILING OPENING
432
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
NO. 8 SCREWS AT 24 IN. O.C
TOP AND BOTTOM (TYP.)
MINIMUM 2 IN. x 2 IN. CLIP ANGLE
WITH 4 NO. 8 SCREWS
THROUGH EACH LEG, BOTH
SIDES OF CONNECTION
HEADER JOIST-
C-SHAPE INSIDE A TRACK
4 NO. 8 SCREWS THROUGH EACH LEG
OF CLIP ANGLE (ONE SIDE OF
CONNECTION) MINIMUM LENGTH EQUALS
JOIST WEB DEPTH MINUS 7, IN.
_TRIMMER JOIST.
C-SHAPE INSIDE
A TRACK (TYP.)
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R804.3.6(2)
HEADER TO TRIMMER CONNECTION
TABLE R804.3.8(1)
REQUIRED LENGTHS FOR CEILING DIAPHRAGMS AT GABLE ENDWALLS
GYPSUM BOARD SHEATHED, CEILING HEIGHT = 8 FEET a ' b '' : ' d ' !i • ,
Exposure B
BASIC WIND SPEED (m
ph)
85
100
110
-
-
Exposure C
—
85
-
100
110
Roof pitch
Building endwall width (feet)
Minim
um diaphragm length
(feet)
3:12 to
6:12
24-28
14
20
22
28
32
28-32
16
22
28
32
38
32-36
20
26
32
38
44
36-40
22
30
36
44
50
6:12
to
9:12
24-28
16
22
26
32
36
28-32
20
26
32
38
44
32-36
22
32
38
44
52
36-40
26
36
44
52
60
9:12
to
12:12
24-28
18
26
30
36
42
28-32
22
30
36
42
50
32-36
26
36
42
50
60
36-40
30
42
50
60
70
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
a. Ceiling diaphragm is composed of 7,-inch gypsum board (min. thickness) secured with screws spaced at 6 inches o.c. at panel edges and 12 inches o.c.
infield. Use No. 8 screws (min.) when framing members have a designation thickness of 54 mils or less and No. 10 screws (min.) when framing members
have a designation thickness greater than 54 mils.
b. Maximum aspect ratio (length/width) of diaphragms is 2:1.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
d. Required diaphragm lengths are to be provided at each end of the structure.
e. Multiplying required diaphragm lengths by 0.35 is permitted if all panel edges are blocked.
f. Multiplying required diaphragm lengths by 0.9 is permitted if all panel edges are secured with screws spaced at 4 inches o.c.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
433
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
CEILING JOISTS
FLAT STUD OR TRACK ■
BLOCKING AT 48 IN. O.C.
AT FIRST TWO JOIST
SPACES
3-NO. 8 SCREWS AT
EACH STUD
STUD BLOCKING
AT CEILING
ELEVATION
GABLE END
WALL STUDS
><*
.NO. 8 SCREWS AT
6 INCHES O.C. TO
FLAT BLOCKING
WOOD STRUCTURAL
PANEL OR GYPSUM
BOARD DIAPHRAGM
For ST: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R804.3.8(1)
CEILING DIAPHRAGM TO GABLE ENDWALL DETAIL
TABLE R804.3.8(2)
REQUIRED LENGTHS FOR CEILING DIAPHRAGMS AT GABLE ENDWALLS
GYPSUM BOARD SHEATHED CEILING HEIGHT = 9 OR 10 FEET abc def
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph)
85
100
110
—
-
Exposure C
-
85
—
100
110
Roof pitch
Building endwall
width (feet)
Minirr
um diaphragm length
(feet)
3:12
to
6:12
24-28
16
22
26
32
38
28-32
20
26
32
38
44
32-36
22
30
36
44
50
36-40
26
36
42
50
58
6:12
to
9:12
24-28
18
26
30
36
42
28-32
22
30
36
42
50
32-36
26
36
42
50
58
36-40
30
42
48
58
68
9:12
to
12:12
24-28
20
28
34
40
46
28-32
24
34
40
48
56
32-36
28
40
48
56
66
36-40
34
46
56
66
78
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0.0254 mm.
a. Ceiling diaphragm is composed of 7 2 -inch gypsum board (min. thickness) secured with screws spaced at 6 inches o.c. at panel edges and 1 2 inches o.c. infield.
Use No. 8 screws (min.) when framing members have a designation thickness of 54 mils or less and No. 10 screws (min.) when framing members have a
designation thickness greater than 54 mils.
b. Maximum aspect ratio (length/width) of diaphragms is 2: 1 .
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
d. Required diaphragm lengths are to be provided at each end of the structure.
e. Required diaphragm lengths are permitted to be multiplied by 0.35 if all panel edges are blocked.
f. Required diaphragm lengths are permitted to be multiplied by 0.9 if all panel edges are secured with screws spaced at 4 inches o.c.
434
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
ROOF-CEILIMG CONSTRUCTION
ROOF SHEATHING
ROOF BLOCKING
NO. 8 SCREWS AT 6 IN. OC
STRUCTURAL WALL
ROOF RAFTER
(OR TRUSS TOP CHORD)
CEILING JOIST
(OR TRUSS BOTTOM CHORD)
WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL
OR GYPSUM BOARD DIAPHRAGM
350T125-33 TRACK BLOCKING
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R804.3.8(2)
CEILING DIAPHRAGM TO SIDEWALL DETAIL
TABLE R804.3.8(3)
REQUIRED LENGTHS FOR CEILING DIAPHRAGMS AT GABLE ENDWALLS
WOOD STRUCTURAL PANEL SHEATHED CEILING HEIGHT = 8 9 OR 10 FEET a b c d
Exposure B
BASIC WIND SPEED (mph)
85
100
110
—
—
Exposure C
—
85
—
100
110
Roof pitch
Building endwall width (feet)
Minim
urn diaphragm length (feet)
3:12 to 6:12
24-28
10
10
10
10
10
28-32
12
12
12
12
12
32-36
12
12
12
12
12
36-40
14
14
14
14
14
6:12to9:12
24-28
10
10
10
10
10
28 - 32
12
12
12
12
12
32-36
12
12
12
12
12
36-40
14
14
14
14
14
9:12 to 12:12
24-28
10
10
10
10
10
28-32
12
12
12
12
12
32-36
12
12
12
12
12
36-40
14
14
14
14
14
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, I mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mil = 0254 mm
a. Ceiling diaphragm is composed of V s -inch wood structural panel sheathing (min. thickness) secured with screws spaced at 6 inches o.c. at panel edges and in
Use No. 8 screws (min.) when framing members have a designation thickness of 54 mils or less and No. 10 screws (min.) when framing members have a
designation thickness greater than 54 mils.
b. Maximum aspect ratio (length/width) of diaphragms is 3:1.
c. Building width is in the direction of horizontal framing members supported by the wall studs.
d. Required diaphragm lengths are to be provided at each end of the structure.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
435
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
1'/ 2 IN. «33MILCONT.
STRAP LAP 12 IN. WITH
4-NO. 5 SCREWS WHERE
SPLICE REQUIRED
SCREW THROUGH ROOF
SHEATHING TO STRAP
NO. 8 AT 6 IN. O.C.
43 MIL
BLKG LENGTH
REQUIRED TO
LAP WALL TRACK
FLANGEAMIN.
17, IN.
NOTE: BLKG SHALL -»$
BE PERMITTED TO
BE ATTACHED TO
OUTSIDE FACE OF
SHEATHING OR PREFERABLY
DIRECTLY TO TRACK
FLANGE PRIOR TO SHEATHING
PLACEMENT AS SHOWN
SHADED AREA INDICATES .
BLOCKING BREAK SHAPE
AT 12 FT O.C
SCREWS THROUGH STRAP
TO BLKG AND BLKG TO TOP
OF WALL TRACK FLANGE
NO. 8 AT 6 IN. O.C.
For SI: 1 mil = 0.0254 mm, 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R804.3.8(3)
ROOF BLOCKING DETAIL
SECTION R805
CEILING FINISHES
R805.1 Ceiling installation. Ceilings shall be installed in
accordance with the requirements for interior wall finishes as
provided in Section R702.
SECTION R806
ROOF VENTILATION
R806.1 Ventilation required. Enclosed attics and enclosed
rafter spaces formed where ceilings are applied directly to the
underside of roof rafters shall have cross ventilation for each
separate space by ventilating openings protected against the
entrance of rain or snow. Ventilation openings shall have a
least dimension of 7 16 inch (1.6 mm) minimum and 7 4 inch
(6.4 mm) maximum. Ventilation openings having a least
dimension larger than 7 4 inch (6.4 mm) shall be provided
with corrosion-resistant wire cloth screening, hardware cloth,
or similar material with openings having a least dimension of
7 l6 inch (1.6 mm) minimum and 7 4 inch (6.4 mm) maximum.
Openings in roof framing members shall conform to the
requirements of Section R802.7. Required ventilation open-
ings shall open directly to the outside air.
Exception: Attic ventilation shall not be required when
determined not necessary by the code official due to atmo-
spheric or climatic conditions.
R806.2 Minimum vent area. The minimum net free ventilat-
ing area shall be 7 150 of the area of the vented space.
Exception: The minimum net free ventilation area shall be
7 100 of the vented space provided one or more of the fol-
lowing conditions are met:
1 . In Climate Zones 6, 7 and 8, a Class I or II vapor
retarder is installed on the warm-in-winter side of
the ceiling.
2. At least 40 percent and not more than 50 percent of
the required ventilating area is provided by ventila-
tors located in the upper portion of the attic or rafter
space. Upper ventilators shall be located no more
436
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
than 3 feet (914 mm) below the ridge or highest
point of the space, measured vertically, with the bal-
ance of the required ventilation provided by eave or
cornice vents. Where the location of wall or roof
framing members conflicts with the installation of
upper ventilators, installation more than 3 feet (914
mm) below the ridge or highest point of the space
shall be permitted.
R806.3 Vent and insulation clearance. Where eave or cor-
nice vents are installed, insulation shall not block the free
flow of air. A minimum of a 1-inch (25 mm) space shall be
provided between the insulation and the roof sheathing and at
the location of the vent.
R806.4 Installation and weather protection. Ventilators
shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer's installa-
tion instructions. Installation of ventilators in roof systems
shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section R903.
Installation of ventilators in wall systems shall be in accor-
dance with the requirements of Section R703.1.
R806.5 Unvented attic and unvented enclosed rafter
assemblies. Unvented attic assemblies (spaces between the
ceiling joists of the top story and the roof rafters) and
unvented enclosed rafter assemblies (spaces between ceilings
that are applied directly to the underside of roof framing
members/rafters and the structural roof sheathing at the top of
the roof framing members/rafters) shall be permitted if all the
following conditions are met:
1. The unvented attic space is completely contained
within the building thermal envelope.
2. No interior Class I vapor retarders are installed on the
ceiling side (attic floor) of the unvented attic assembly
or on the ceiling side of the unvented enclosed rafter
assembly.
3. Where wood shingles or shakes are used, a minimum 74-
inch (6 mm) vented air space separates the shingles or
shakes and the roofing underlayment above the struc-
tural sheathing.
4. In Climate Zones 5, 6, 7 and 8, any air-impermeable
insulation shall be a Class II vapor retarder, or shall
have a Class III vapor retarder coating or covering in
direct contact with the underside of the insulation.
5. Either Items 5.1, 5.2 or 5.3 shall be met, depending on
the air permeability of the insulation directly under the
structural roof sheathing.
5.1. Air-impermeable insulation only. Insulation
shall be applied in direct contact with the under-
side of the structural roof sheathing.
5.2. Air-permeable insulation only. In addition to
the air-permeable insulation installed directly
below the structural sheathing, rigid board or
sheet insulation shall be installed directly above
the structural roof sheathing as specified in
Table R806.5 for condensation control.
5.3. Air-impermeable and air-permeable insulation.
The air-impermeable insulation shall be applied
in direct contact with the underside of the struc-
tural roof sheathing as specified in Table
R806.5 for condensation control. The air-per-
meable insulation shall be installed directly
under the air-impermeable insulation.
5.4. Where preformed insulation board is used as the
air-impermeable insulation layer, it shall be
sealed at the perimeter of each individual sheet
interior surface to form a continuous layer.
TABLE R806.5
INSULATION FOR CONDENSATION CONTROL
CLIMATE ZONE
MINIMUM RIGID BOARD ON AIR-
IMPERMEABLE INSULATION fl-VALUE"
2B and 3B tile roof only
(none required)
1, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 3C
R-5
4C
R-10
4A,4B
R-15
5
R-20
6
R-25
7
R-30
8
R-35
a. Contributes to but does not supersede the requirements in Section
N1 103.2.1.
SECTION R807
ATTIC ACCESS
R807.1 Attic access. Buildings with combustible ceiling or
roof construction shall have an attic access opening to attic
areas that exceed 30 square feet (2.8 m 2 ) and have a vertical
height of 30 inches (762 mm) or greater. The vertical height
shall be measured from the top of the ceiling framing mem-
bers to the underside of the roof framing members.
The rough-framed opening shall not be less than 22 inches
by 30 inches (559 mm by 762 mm) and shall be located in a
hallway or other readily accessible location. When located in
a wall, the opening shall be a minimum of 22 inches wide by
30 inches high (559 mm wide by 762 mm high). When the
access is located in a ceiling, minimum unobstructed head-
room in the attic space shall be 30 inches (762 mm) at some
point above the access measured vertically from the bottom
of ceiling framing members. See Section M1305.1.3 for
access requirements where mechanical equipment is located
in attics.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE B
437
438 201 2 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 9
ROOF AQ^5FMRI_IE^
SECTION R901
GENERAL
R901.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern the
design, materials, construction and quality of roof assemblies.
SECTION R902
ROOF CLASSIFICATION
R902.1 Roofing covering materials. Roofs shall be covered
with materials as set forth in Sections R904 and R905. Class
A, B or C roofing shall be installed in areas designated by law
as requiring their use or when the edge of the roof is less than
3 feet (914 mm) from a lot line. Classes A, B and C roofing
required by this section to be listed shall be tested in accor-
dance with UL 790 or ASTM E 108.
Exceptions:
1. Class A roof assemblies include those with cover-
ings of brick, masonry and exposed concrete roof
deck.
2. Class A roof assemblies also include ferrous or cop-
per shingles or sheets, metal sheets and shingles,
clay or concrete roof tile, or slate installed on non-
combustible decks.
3. Class A roof assemblies include minimum 16 oz/ft 2
copper sheets installed over combustible decks.
R902.2 Fire-retardant-treated shingles and shakes. Fire-
retardant-treated wood shakes and shingles shall be treated by
impregnation with chemicals by the full-cell vacuum-pres-
sure process, in accordance with AWPA CI. Each bundle
shall be marked to identify the manufactured unit and the
manufacturer, and shall also be labeled to identify the classi-
fication of the material in accordance with the testing
required in Section R902.1, the treating company and the
quality control agency.
SECTION R903
WEATHER PROTECTION
R903.1 General. Roof decks shall be covered with approved
roof coverings secured to the building or structure in accor-
dance with the provisions of this chapter. Roof assemblies
shall be designed and installed in accordance with this code
and the approved manufacturer's installation instructions
such that the roof assembly shall serve to protect the building
or structure.
R903.2 Flashing. Flashings shall be installed in a manner
that prevents moisture from entering the wall and roof
through joints in copings, through moisture permeable mate-
rials and at intersections with parapet walls and other penetra-
tions through the roof plane.
R903.2.1 Locations. Flashings shall be installed at wall
and roof intersections, wherever there is a change in roof
slope or direction and around roof openings. A flashing
shall be installed to divert the water away from where the
eave of a sloped roof intersects a vertical sidewalk Where
flashing is of metal, the metal shall be corrosion resistant
with a thickness of not less than 0.019 inch (0.5 mm) (No.
26 galvanized sheet).
R903.2.2 Crickets and saddles. A cricket or saddle shall
be installed on the ridge side of any chimney or penetra-
tion more than 30 inches (762 mm) wide as measured per-
pendicular to the slope. Cricket or saddle coverings shall
be sheet metal or of the same material as the roof covering.
Exception: Unit skylights installed in accordance with
Section R308.6 and flashed in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions shall be permitted to be
installed without a cricket or saddle.
R903.3 Coping. Parapet walls shall be properly coped with
noncombustible, weatherproof materials of a width no less
than the thickness of the parapet wall.
R903.4 Roof drainage. Unless roofs are sloped to drain over
roof edges, roof drains shall be installed at each low point of
the roof.
R 903.4.1 Secondary (emergency overflow) drains or
scuppers. Where roof drains are required, secondary
emergency overflow roof drains or scuppers shall be pro-
vided where the roof perimeter construction extends above
the roof in such a manner that water will be entrapped if
the primary drains allow buildup for any reason. Overflow
drains having the same size as the roof drains shall be
installed with the inlet flow line located 2 inches (51 mm)
above the low point of the roof, or overflow scuppers hav-
ing three times the size of the roof drains and having a
minimum opening height of 4 inches (102 mm) shall be
installed in the adjacent parapet walls with the inlet flow
located 2 inches (51 mm) above the low point of the roof
served. The installation and sizing of overflow drains,
leaders and conductors shall comply with Sections 1106
and 1108 as applicable of the International Plumbing
Code.
Overflow drains shall discharge to an approved loca-
tion and shall not be connected to roof drain lines.
SECTION R904
MATERIALS
R904.1 Scope. The requirements set forth in this section shall
apply to the application of roof covering materials specified
herein. Roof assemblies shall be applied in accordance with
this chapter and the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Installation of roof assemblies shall comply with the applica-
ble provisions of Section R905.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
439
ROOF ASSEMBLIES
R904.2 Compatibility of materials. Roof assemblies shall
be of materials that are compatible with each other and with
the building or structure to which the materials are applied.
R904.3 Material specifications and physical characteris-
tics. Roof covering materials shall conform to the applicable
standards listed in this chapter. In the absence of applicable
standards or where materials are of questionable suitability,
testing by an approved testing agency shall be required by the
building official to determine the character, quality and limi-
tations of application of the materials.
R904.4 Product identification. Roof covering materials
shall be delivered in packages bearing the manufacturer's
identifying marks and approved testing agency labels when
required. Bulk shipments of materials shall be accompanied
by the same information issued in the form of a certificate or
on a bill of lading by the manufacturer.
SECTION R905
REQUIREMENTS FOR ROOF COVERINGS
R905.1 Roof covering application. Roof coverings shall be
applied in accordance with the applicable provisions of this
section and the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Unless otherwise specified in this section, roof coverings
shall be installed to resist the component and cladding loads
specified in Table R301.2(2), adjusted for height and expo-
sure in accordance with Table R301.2(3).
R905.2 Asphalt shingles. The installation of asphalt shingles
shall comply with the provisions of this section.
R905.2.1 Sheathing requirements. Asphalt shingles shall
be fastened to solidly sheathed decks.
R905.2.2 Slope. Asphalt shingles shall be used only on
roof slopes of two units vertical in 12 units horizontal
(2:12) or greater. For roof slopes from two units vertical in
12 units horizontal (2:12) up to four units vertical in 12
units horizontal (4:12), double underlayment application is
required in accordance with Section R905.2.7.
R905.2.3 Underlayment. Unless otherwise noted,
required underlayment shall conform to ASTM D 226
Type I, ASTM D 4869 Type I, or ASTM D 6757.
Self-adhering polymer modified bitumen sheet shall
comply with ASTM D 1970.
R905.2.4 Asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles shall comply
with ASTM D 225 or D 3462.
R905.2.4.1 Wind resistance of asphalt shingles.
Asphalt shingles shall be tested in accordance with
ASTM D 7 1 58. Asphalt shingles shall meet the classifi-
cation requirements of Table R905.2.4.1(l) for the
appropriate maximum basic wind speed. Asphalt shin-
gle packaging shall bear a label to indicate compliance
with ASTM D 7158 and the required classification in
Table R905.2.4. 1(1).
Exception: Asphalt shingles not included in the
scope of ASTM D 7158 shall be tested and labeled
to indicate compliance with ASTM D 3161 and the
required classification in Table R905.2.4.1(2).
TABLE R905.2.4.1(1)
CLASSIFICATION OF ASPHALT ROOF SHINGLES PER ASTM D 7158
MAXIMUM BASIC WIND SPEED FROM FIGURE 301 .2(4)A (mph)
CLASSIFICATION REQUIREMENT
85
D, G or H
90
D, G or H
100
GorH
110
GorH
120
GorH
130
H
140
H
150
H
For SI: 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
TABLER905.2.4.1(2)
CLASSIFICATION OF ASPHALT SHINGLES PER ASTM D 3161
MAXIMUM BASIC WIND SPEED FROM FIGURE 301 .2(4)A (mph)
CLASSIFICATION REQUIREMENT
85
A, D or F
90
A, D or F
100
A, D or F
110
F
120
F
130
F
140
F
150
F
For SI: 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s.
440
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF ASSEMBLIES
R905.2.5 Fasteners. Fasteners for asphalt shingles shall
be galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum or copper
roofing nails, minimum 12 gage [0.105 inch (3 mm)]
shank with a minimum 3 / g -inch-diameter (10 mm) head,
ASTM F 1667, of a length to penetrate through the roofing
materials and a minimum of 3 / 4 inch (19 mm) into the roof
sheathing. Where the roof sheathing is less than 3 / 4 inch
(19 mm) thick, the fasteners shall penetrate through the
sheathing. Fasteners shall comply with ASTM F 1667.
R905.2.6 Attachment. Asphalt shingles shall have the
minimum number of fasteners required by the manufac-
turer, but not less than four fasteners per strip shingle or
two fasteners per individual shingle. Where the roof slope
exceeds 21 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (21:12,
175-percent slope), shingles shall be installed as required
by the manufacturer.
R905.2.7 Underlayment application. For roof slopes
from two units vertical in 12 units horizontal (17-percent
slope), up to four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33-
percent slope), underlayment shall be two layers applied in
the following manner. Apply a 19-inch (483 mm) strip of
underlayment felt parallel to and starting at the eaves, fas-
tened sufficiently to hold in place. Starting at the eave,
apply 36-inch- wide (914 mm) sheets of underlayment,
overlapping successive sheets 19 inches (483 mm), and
fastened sufficiently to hold in place. Distortions in the
underlayment shall not interfere with the ability of the
shingles to seal. For roof slopes of four units vertical in 12
units horizontal (33-percent slope) or greater, underlay-
ment shall be one layer applied in the following manner.
Underlayment shall be applied shingle fashion, parallel to
and starting from the eave and lapped 2 inches (51 mm),
fastened sufficiently to hold in place. Distortions in the
underlayment shall not interfere with the ability of the
shingles to seal. End laps shall be offset by 6 feet (1829
mm).
R905.2.7J Ice barrier. In areas where there has been a
history of ice forming along the eaves causing a backup
of water as designated in Table R301.2(l), an ice bar-
rier that consists of a least two layers of underlayment
cemented together or of a self-adhering polymer modi-
fied bitumen sheet, shall be used in lieu of normal
underlayment and extend from the lowest edges of all
roof surfaces to a point at least 24 inches (610 mm)
inside the exterior wall line of the building.
Exception: Detached accessory structures that con-
tain no conditioned floor area.
R905.2.7.2 Underlayment and high winds. Underlay-
ment applied in areas subject to high winds [above 1 10
mph (49 m/s) in accordance with Figure R301.2(4)A]
shall be applied with corrosion-resistant fasteners in
accordance with manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions. Fasteners are to be applied along the overlap not
farther apart than 36 inches (914 mm) on center.
Underlayment installed where the basic wind speed
equals or exceeds 120 mph (54 m/s) shall comply with
ASTM D 226 Type II, ASTM D 4869 Type IV, or
ASTM D 6757. The underlayment shall be attached in
a grid pattern of 12 inches (305 mm) between side laps
with a 6-inch (152 mm) spacing at the side laps. Under-
layment shall be applied in accordance with Section
R905.2.7 except all laps shall be a minimum of 4 inches
(102 mm). Underlayment shall be attached using metal
or plastic cap nails with a head diameter of not less than
1 inch (25.4 mm) with a thickness of at least 32-gauge
sheet metal. The cap-nail shank shall be a minimum of
12 gauge (0.105 inches) with a length to penetrate
through the roof sheathing or a minimum of 3 / 4 inch (19
mm) into the roof sheathing.
Exception: As an alternative, adhered underlayment
complying with ASTM D 1970 shall be permitted.
R90S.2.8 Flashing. Flashing for asphalt shingles shall
comply with this section.
R905.2.8.1 Base and cap flashing. Base and cap flash-
ing shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer's
installation instructions. Base flashing shall be of either
corrosion-resistant metal of minimum nominal 0.019-
inch (0.5 mm) thickness or mineral surface roll roofing
weighing a minimum of 77 pounds per 100 square feet
(4 kg/m 2 ). Cap flashing shall be corrosion-resistant
metal of minimum nominal 0.019-inch (0.5 mm) thick-
ness.
R905.2.8.2 Valleys. Valley linings shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions before applying shingles. Valley linings of the
following types shall be permitted:
1. For open valleys (valley lining exposed) lined
with metal, the valley lining shall be at least 24
inches (610 mm) wide and of any of the corro-
sion-resistant metals in Table R905.2.8.2.
2. For open valleys, valley lining of two plies of
mineral surfaced roll roofing, complying with
ASTM D 3909 or ASTM D 6380 Class M, shall
be permitted. The bottom layer shall be 18 inches
(457 mm) and the top layer a minimum of 36
inches (914 mm) wide.
3. For closed valleys (valley covered with shingles),
valley lining of one ply of smooth roll roofing
complying with ASTM D 6380 and at least 36
inches wide (914 mm) or valley lining as
described in Item 1 or 2 above shall be permitted.
Self-adhering polymer modified bitumen under-
layment complying with ASTM D 1970 shall be
permitted in lieu of the lining material.
R905.2.8.3 Sidewall flashing. Base flashing against a
vertical sidewall shall be continuous or step flashing
and shall be a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) in height
and 4 inches (102 mm) in width and shall direct water
away from the vertical sidewall onto the roof and/or
into the gutter. Where siding is provided on the vertical
sidewall, the vertical leg of the flashing shall be contin-
uous under the siding. Where anchored masonry veneer
is provided on the vertical sidewall, the base flashing
shall be provided in accordance with this section and
counterflashing shall be provided in accordance with
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
441
ROOF ASSEMBLIES
Section R703.7.2.2. Where exterior plaster or adhered
masonry veneer is provided on the vertical sidewall, the
base flashing shall be provided in accordance with this
section and Section R703.6.3.
R905.2.8.4 Other flashing. Flashing against a vertical
front wall, as well as soil stack, vent pipe and chimney
flashing, shall be applied according to the asphalt shin-
gle manufacturer's printed instructions.
R905.2.8.5 Drip edge. A drip edge shall be provided
at eaves and gables of shingle roofs. Adjacent pieces of
drip edge shall be overlapped a minimum of 2 inches
(5 1 mm). Drip edges shall extend a minimum of 0.25
inch (6.4 mm) below the roof sheathing and extend up
the roof deck a minimum of 2 inches (51 mm). Drip
edges shall be mechanically fastened to the roof deck at
a maximum of 12 inches (305 mm) o.c. with fasteners
as specified in Section R905.2.5. Underlayment shall
be installed over the drip edge along eaves and under
the underlayment on gables. Unless specified differ-
ently by the shingle manufacturer, shingles are permit-
ted to be flush with the drip edge.
R905.3 Clay and concrete tile. The installation of clay and
concrete tile shall comply with the provisions of this section.
R905.3.1 Deck requirements. Concrete and clay tile shall
be installed only over solid sheathing or spaced structural
sheathing boards.
R905.3.2 Deck slope. Clay and concrete roof tile shall be
installed on roof slopes of two and one-half units vertical
in 12 units horizontal ( 2'/,:12) or greater. For roof slopes
from two and one-half units vertical in 12 units horizontal
(2'/ 2 :12) to four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (4:12),
double underlayment application is required in accordance
with Section R905.3.3.
R905.3.3 Underlayment. Unless otherwise noted,
required underlayment shall conform to ASTM D 226
Type II; ASTM D 2626 Type I; or ASTM D 6380 Class M
mineral surfaced roll roofing.
R905.3.3.1 Low slope roofs. For roof slopes from two
and one-half units vertical in 12 units horizontal (2'/ 2 :12),
up to four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (4:12),
underlayment shall be a minimum of two layers under-
layment applied as follows:
1. Starting at the eave, a 19-inch (483 mm) strip of
underlayment shall be applied parallel with the
eave and fastened sufficiently in place.
2. Starting at the eave, 36-inch-wide (914 mm)
strips of underlayment felt shall be applied, over-
lapping successive sheets 19 inches (483 mm),
and fastened sufficiently in place.
R905.3.3.2 High slope roofs. For roof slopes of four
units vertical in 12 units horizontal (4:12) or greater,
underlayment shall be a minimum of one layer of
underlayment felt applied shingle fashion, parallel to
and starting from the eaves and lapped 2 inches (51
mm), fastened sufficiently in place.
R905.3.3.3 Underlayment and high winds. Underlay-
ment applied in areas subject to high wind [above 110
miles per hour (49 m/s) in accordance with Figure
R301.2(4)A] shall be applied with corrosion-resistant
fasteners in accordance with manufacturer's installa-
tion instructions. Fasteners are to be applied along the
overlap not farther apart than 36 inches (914 mm) on
center.
Underlayment installed where the basic wind speed
equals or exceeds 120 mph (54 m/s) shall be attached in
a grid pattern of 12 inches (305 mm) between side laps
with a 6-inch (152 mm) spacing at the side laps. Under-
layment shall be applied in accordance with Section
R905.2.7 except all laps shall be a minimum of 4 inches
(102 mm). Underlayment shall be attached using metal
or plastic cap nails with a head diameter of not less than
1 inch (25.4 mm) with a thickness of at least 32-gauge
sheet metal. The cap-nail shank shall be a minimum of
12 gauge (0.105 inches) with a length to penetrate
through the roof sheathing or a minimum of 3 / 4 -inch (19
mm) into the roof sheathing.
Exception: As an alternative, adhered underlayment
complying with ASTM D 1970 shall be permitted.
TABLE R905.2.8.2
VALLEY LINING MATERIAL
MATERIAL
MINIMUM THICKNESS
(inches)
GAGE
WEIGHT
(pounds)
Cold-rolled copper
0.0216 nominal
—
ASTM B 370, 16 oz. per square foot
Lead-coated copper
0.0216 nominal
—
ASTM B 101, 16 oz. per square foot
High-yield copper
0.0162 nominal
—
ASTM B 370, 12 oz. per square foot
Lead-coated high-yield copper
0.0162 nominal
—
ASTM B 101, 12 oz. per square foot
Aluminum
0.024
—
—
Stainless steel
—
28
—
Galvanized steel
0.0179
26 (zinc coated G90)
—
Zinc alloy
0.027
—
—
Lead
—
—
27 2
Painted terne
—
—
20
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg.
442
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF ASSEMBLIES
R905.3.4 Clay tile. Clay roof tile shall comply with
ASTMC1167.
R905.3.5 Concrete tile. Concrete roof tile shall comply
with ASTM C 1492.
R90S.3.6 Fasteners. Nails shall be corrosion resistant and
not less than 1 1 gage, 5 / 16 -inch (1 1 mm) head, and of suffi-
cient length to penetrate the deck a minimum of 3 / 4 inch
(19 mm) or through the thickness of the deck, whichever is
less. Attaching wire for clay or concrete tile shall not be
smaller than 0.083 inch (2 mm). Perimeter fastening areas
include three tile courses but not less than 36 inches (914
mm) from either side of hips or ridges and edges of eaves
and gable rakes.
R905.3.7 Application. Tile shall be applied in accordance
with this chapter and the manufacturer's installation
instructions, based on the following:
1 . Climatic conditions.
2. Roof slope.
3. Underlayment system.
4. Type of tile being installed.
Clay and concrete roof tiles shall be fastened in accor-
dance with this section and the manufacturer's installation
instructions. Perimeter tiles shall be fastened with a mini-
mum of one fastener per tile. Tiles with installed weight
less than 9 pounds per square foot (0.4 kg/m 2 ) require a
minimum of one fastener per tile regardless of roof slope.
Clay and concrete roof tile attachment shall be in accor-
dance with the manufacturer's installation instructions
where applied in areas where the wind speed exceeds 100
miles per hour (45 m/s) and on buildings where the roof is
located more than 40 feet (12 192 mm) above grade. In
areas subject to snow, a minimum of two fasteners per tile
is required. In all other areas, clay and concrete roof tiles
shall be attached in accordance with Table R905.3.7.
TABLE R905.3.7
CLAY AND CONCRETE TILE ATTACHMENT
SHEATHING
ROOF SLOPE
NUMBER OF
FASTENERS
Solid without battens
All
One per tile
Spaced or solid with
battens and slope
<5:12
Fasteners not
required
—
Spaced sheathing
without battens
5: 12 < slope < 12:12
One per tile/every
other row
12: 12 < slope < 24:12
One per tile
R905.3.8 Flashing. At the juncture of roof vertical sur-
faces, flashing and counterflashing shall be provided in
accordance with this chapter and the manufacturer's
installation instructions and, where of metal, shall not be
less than 0.019 inch (0.5 mm) (No. 26 galvanized sheet
gage) corrosion- resistant metal. The valley flashing shall
extend at least 1 1 inches (279 mm) from the centerline
each way and have a splash diverter rib not less than 1
inch (25 mm) high at the flow line formed as part of the
flashing. Sections of flashing shall have an end lap of not
less than 4 inches (102 mm). For roof slopes of three units
vertical in 12 units horizontal (25-percent slope) and
greater, valley flashing shall have a 36-inch-wide (914
mm) underlayment of one layer of Type I underlayment
running the full length of the valley, in addition to other
required underlayment. In areas where the average daily
temperature in January is 25°F (-4°C) or less, metal valley
flashing underlayment shall be solid-cemented to the roof-
ing underlayment for slopes less than seven units vertical
in 12 units horizontal (58-percent slope) or be of self-
adhering polymer modified bitumen sheet.
R905.4 Metal roof shingles. The installation of metal roof
shingles shall comply with the provisions of this section.
R905.4.1 Deck requirements. Metal roof shingles shall
be applied to a solid or closely fitted deck, except where
the roof covering is specifically designed to be applied to
spaced sheathing.
R905.4.2 Deck slope. Metal roof shingles shall not be
installed on roof slopes below three units vertical in 12
units horizontal (25-percent slope).
R905.4.3 Underlayment. Underlayment shall comply
with ASTM D 226, Type 1 or Type II, ASTM D 4869,
Type I or Type II, or ASTM D 1970. Underlayment shall
be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instal-
lation instructions.
R905.4.3.1 Ice barrier. In areas where there has been a
history of ice forming along the eaves causing a backup
of water as designated in Table R301.2(l), an ice bar-
rier that consists of at least two layers of underlayment
cemented together or a self-adhering polymer modified
bitumen sheet shall be used in place of normal under-
layment and extend from the lowest edges of all roof
surfaces to a point at least 24 inches (610 mm) inside
the exterior wall line of the building.
Exception: Detached accessory structures that con-
tain no conditioned floor area.
R905.4.3.2 Underlayment and high winds. Underlay-
ment applied in areas subject to high winds [above 1 10
mph (49 m/s) in accordance with Figure R301.2(4)A]
shall be applied with corrosion-resistant fasteners in
accordance with manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions. Fasteners are to be applied along the overlap not
farther apart than 36 inches (9 1 4 mm) on center.
Underlayment installed where the basic wind speed
equals or exceeds 120 mph (54 m/s) shall comply with
ASTM D 226 Type II, ASTM D 4869 Type IV, or
ASTM D 1970. The underlayment shall be attached in
a grid pattern of 12 inches (305 mm) between side laps
with a 6-inch (152 mm) spacing at the side laps. Under-
layment shall be applied in accordance with Section
R905.2.7 except all laps shall be a minimum of 4 inches
(102 mm). Underlayment shall be attached using metal
or plastic cap nails with a head diameter of not less than
1 inch (25.4 mm) with a thickness of at least 32 gauge
sheet metal. The cap-nail shank shall be a minimum of
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 6
443
ROOF ASSEMBLIES
12 gauge (0.105 inches) with a length to penetrate
through the roof sheathing or a minimum of 3 / 4 inch (19
mm) into the roof sheathing.
Exception: As an alternative, adhered underlayment
complying with ASTM D 1970 shall be permitted.
R905.4.4 Material standards. Metal roof shingle roof
coverings shall comply with Table R905. 10.3(1). The
materials used for metal roof shingle roof coverings shall
be naturally corrosion resistant or be made corrosion resis-
tant in accordance with the standards and minimum thick-
nesses listed in Table R905. 10.3(2).
R905.4.5 Application. Metal roof shingles shall be
secured to the roof in accordance with this chapter and the
approve d manufacturer' s installation instructions.
R905.4.6 Flashing. Roof valley flashing shall be of corro-
sion-resistant metal of the same material as the roof cover-
ing or shall comply with the standards in Table
R905. 10.3(1). The valley flashing shall extend at least 8
inches (203 mm) from the centerline each way and shall
have a splash diverter rib not less than 3 / 4 inch (19 mm)
high at the flow line formed as part of the flashing. Sec-
tions of flashing shall have an end lap of not less than 4
inches (102 mm). The metal valley flashing shall have a
36-inch- wide (914 mm) underlayment directly under it
consisting of one layer of underlayment running the full
length of the valley, in addition to underlayment required
for metal roof shingles. In areas where the average daily
temperature in January is 25°F (-4°C) or less, the metal
valley flashing underlayment shall be solid cemented to
the roofing underlayment for roof slopes under seven units
vertical in 12 units horizontal (58-percent slope) or self-
adhering polymer modified bitumen sheet.
R905.5 Mineral-surfaced roll roofing. The installation of
mineral-surfaced roll roofing shall comply with this section.
R905.5.1 Deck requirements. Mineral-surfaced roll roof-
ing shall be fastened to solidly sheathed roofs.
R905.5.2 Deck slope. Mineral-surfaced roll roofing shall
not be applied on roof slopes below one unit vertical in 12
units horizontal (8-percent slope).
R905.5.3 Underlayment. Underlayment shall comply
with ASTM D 226, Type I or ASTM D 4869, Type 1 or II.
R905.5.3.1 Ice barrier. In areas where there has been a
history of ice forming along the eaves causing a backup
of water as designated in Table R301.2(l), an ice bar-
rier that consists of at least two layers of underlayment
cemented together or a self-adhering polymer modified
bitumen sheet shall be used in place of normal under-
layment and extend from the lowest edges of all roof
surfaces to a point at least 24 inches (610 mm) inside
the exterior wall line of the building.
Exception: Detached accessory structures that con-
tain no conditioned floor area.
R905.5.3.2 Underlayment and high winds. Underlay-
ment applied in areas subject to high winds [above 1 10
mph (49 m/s) in accordance with Figure R301.2(4)A]
shall be applied with corrosion-resistant fasteners in
accordance with manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions. Fasteners are to be applied along the overlap not
farther apart than 36 inches (914 mm) on center.
Underlayment installed where the basic wind speed
equals or exceeds 120 mph (54 m/s) shall comply with
ASTM D 226 Type II or ASTM D 4869 Type IV. The
underlayment shall be attached in a grid pattern of 12
inches (305 mm) between side laps with a 6-inch (152
mm) spacing at the side laps. Underlayment shall be
applied in accordance with Section R905.2.7 except all
laps shall be a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm). Under-
layment shall be attached using metal or plastic cap
nails with a head diameter of not less than 1 inch (25.4
mm) with a thickness of at least 32-gauge sheet metal.
The cap-nail shank shall be a minimum of 12 gauge
(0.105 inches) with a length to penetrate through the
roof sheathing or a minimum of 3 / 4 inch (19 mm) into
the roof sheathing.
Exception: As an alternative, adhered underlay-
ment complying with ASTM D 1970 shall be per-
mitted.
R905.5.4 Material standards. Mineral- surfaced roll roof-
ing shall conform to ASTM D 3909 or ASTM D 6380,
Class M.
R905.5.5 Application. Mineral-surfaced roll roofing shall
be installed in accordance with this chapter and the manu-
facturer's installation instructions.
R905.6 Slate and slate-type shingles. The installation of
slate and slate-type shingles shall comply with the provisions
of this section.
R905.6.1 Deck requirements. Slate shingles shall be fas-
tened to solidly sheathed roofs.
R905.6.2 Deck slope. Slate shingles shall be used only on
slopes of four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33-per-
cent slope) or greater.
R905.6.3 Underlayment. Underlayment shall comply
with ASTM D 226, Type I, or ASTM D 4869, Type I or II.
Underlayment shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's installation instructions.
R905.6.3.1 Ice barrier. In areas where there has been a
history of ice forming along the eaves causing a backup
of water as designated in Table R301.2(l), an ice bar-
rier that consists of at least two layers of underlayment
cemented together or a self-adhering polymer modified
bitumen sheet shall be used in lieu of normal underlay-
ment and extend from the lowest edges of all roof sur-
faces to a point at least 24 inches (610 mm) inside the
exterior wall line of the building.
Exception: Detached accessory structures that con-
tain no conditioned floor area.
R905.6.3.2 Underlayment and high winds. Underlay-
ment applied in areas subject to high winds [above 110
mph (49 m/s) in accordance with Figure R301.2(4)A]
shall be applied with corrosion-resistant fasteners in
accordance with manufacturer's installation instruc-
444
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF ASSEMBLIES
tions. Fasteners are to be applied along the overlap not
farther apart than 36 inches (914 mm) on center.
Underlayment installed where the basic wind speed
equals or exceeds 120 mph (54 m/s) shall comply with
ASTM D 226 Type II or ASTM D 4869 Type IV. The
underlayment shall be attached in a grid pattern of 12
inches (305 mm) between side laps with a 6-inch (152
mm) spacing at the side laps. Underlayment shall be
applied in accordance with Section R905.2.7 except all
laps shall be a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm). Under-
layment shall be attached using metal or plastic cap
nails with a head diameter of not less than 1 inch (25.4
mm) with a thickness of at least 32-gauge sheet metal.
The cap-nail shank shall be a minimum of 12 gauge
(0.105 inches) with a length to penetrate through the
roof sheathing or a minimum of 3 / 4 inch (19 mm) into
the roof sheathing.
Exception: As an alternative, adhered underlayment
complying with ASTM D 1970 shall be permitted.
R905.6.4 Material standards. Slate shingles shall com-
ply with ASTM C 406.
R905.6.5 Application. Minimum headlap for slate shin-
gles shall be in accordance with Table R905.6.5. Slate
shingles shall be secured to the roof with two fasteners per
slate. Slate shingles shall be installed in accordance with
this chapter and the manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions.
TABLE R905.6.5
SLATE SHINGLE HEADLAP
SLOPE
HEADLAP (inches)
4:12 < slope < 8:12
4
8:12 < slope < 20:12
3
Slope < 20: 12
2
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
R90S.6.6 Flashing. Flashing and counterflashing shall be
made with sheet metal. Valley flashing shall be a mini-
mum of 15 inches (381 mm) wide. Valley and flashing
metal shall be a minimum uncoated thickness of 0.0179-
inch (0.5 mm) zinc coated G90. Chimneys, stucco or brick
walls shall have a minimum of two plies of felt for a cap
flashing consisting of a 4-inch-wide (102 mm) strip of felt
set in plastic cement and extending 1 inch (25 mm) above
the first felt and a top coating of plastic cement. The felt
shall extend over the base flashing 2 inches (51 mm).
R905.7 Wood shingles. The installation of wood shingles
shall comply with the provisions of this section.
R905.7.1 Deck requirements. Wood shingles shall be
installed on solid or spaced sheathing. Where spaced
sheathing is used, sheathing boards shall not be less than
1-inch by 4-inch (25.4 mm by 102 mm) nominal dimen-
sions and shall be spaced on centers equal to the weather
exposure to coincide with the placement of fasteners.
R905.7.1.1 Solid sheathing required. In areas where
the average daily temperature in lanuary is 25°F (-4°C)
or less, solid sheathing is required on that portion of the
roof requiring the application of an ice barrier.
R905.7.2 Deck slope. Wood shingles shall be installed on
slopes of three units vertical in 12 units horizontal (25-per-
cent slope) or greater.
R905.7.3 Underlayment. Underlayment shall comply
with ASTM D 226, Type I or ASTM D 4869, Type I or II.
R905.7.3.1 Ice barrier. In areas where there has been a
history of ice forming along the eaves causing a backup
of water as designated in Table R301.2(l), an ice bar-
rier that consists of at least two layers of underlayment
cemented together or a self-adhering polymer modified
bitumen sheet shall be used in lieu of normal underlay-
ment and extend from the lowest edges of all roof sur-
faces to a point at least 24 inches (610 mm) inside the
exterior wall line of the building.
Exception: Detached accessory structures that con-
tain no conditioned floor area.
R905.7.3.2 Underlayment and high winds. Underlay-
ment applied in areas subject to high winds [above 110
mph (49 m/s) in accordance with Figure R301.2(4)A]
shall be applied with corrosion-resistant fasteners in
accordance with manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions. Fasteners are to be applied along the overlap not
farther apart than 36 inches (914mm) on center.
Underlayment installed where the basic wind speed
equals or exceeds 120 mph (54 m/s) shall comply with
ASTM D 226 Type II or ASTM D 4869 Type IV. The
underlayment shall be attached in a grid pattern of 12
inches (305 mm) between side laps with a 6-inch (152
mm) spacing at the side laps. Underlayment shall be
applied in accordance with Section R905.2.7 except all
Head laps shall be a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm).
Underlayment shall be attached using metal or plastic
cap nails with a head diameter of not less than 1 inch
(25.4 mm) with a thickness of at least 32-gauge sheet
metal. The cap-nail shank shall be a minimum of 12
gauge (0.105 inches) with a length to penetrate through
the roof sheathing or a minimum of 3 / 4 inch (19 mm)
into the roof sheathing.
Exception: As an alternative, adhered underlayment
complying with ASTM D 1970 shall be permitted.
R905.7.4 Material standards. Wood shingles shall be of
naturally durable wood and comply with the requirements
of Table R905 .7.4.
TABLE R905.7.4
WOOD SHINGLE MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS
MATERIAL
MINIMUM GRADES
APPLICABLE
GRADING RULES
Wood shingles of natu-
rally durable wood
1,2 or 3
Cedar Shake and
Shingle Bureau
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE* 9
445
ROOF ASSEMBLIES
R905.7.5 Application. Wood shingles shall be installed
according to this chapter and the manufacturer's installa-
tion instructions. Wood shingles shall be laid with a side
lap not less than l'/ 2 inches (38 mm) between joints in
courses, and no two joints in any three adjacent courses
shall be in direct alignment. Spacing between shingles
shall not be less than ! / 4 inch to 3 / 8 inch (6 mm to 10 mm).
Weather exposure for wood shingles shall not exceed
those set in Table R905.7.5. Fasteners for wood shingles
shall be corrosion resistant with a minimum penetration of
7 2 inch (13 mm) into the sheathing. For sheathing less than
7 2 inch (13 mm) in thickness, the fasteners shall extend
through the sheathing. Wood shingles shall be attached to
the roof with two fasteners per shingle, positioned no more
than V 4 inch (19 mm) from each edge and no more than 1
inch (25 mm) above the exposure line.
TABLE R905.7.5
WOOD SHINGLE WEATHER EXPOSURE AND ROOF SLOPE
ROOFING
MATERIAL
LENGTH
(inches)
GRADE
EXPOSURE (inches)
3:12 pitch to
<4:12
4:12 pitch or
steeper
Shingles of
naturally
durable
wood
16
No. 1
3V 4
5
No. 2
37,
4
No. 3
3
37 2
18
No. 1
4V 4
57,
No. 2
4
4'A
No. 3
3V 2
4
24
No. 1
5\
77,
No. 2
5%
67 2
No. 3
5
57 2
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
R905.7.6 Valley flashing. Roof flashing shall be not less
than No. 26 gage [0.019 inches (0.5 mm)] corrosion-resis-
tant sheet metal and shall extend 10 inches (254 mm) from
the centerline each way for roofs having slopes less than
12 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (100-percent slope),
and 7 inches (178 mm) from the centerline each way for
slopes of 12 units vertical in 12 units horizontal and
greater. Sections of flashing shall have an end lap of not
less than 4 inches (102 mm).
R905.7.7 Label required. Each bundle of shingles shall
be identified by a label of an approved grading or inspec-
tion bureau or agency.
R905.8 Wood shakes. The installation of wood shakes shall
comply with the provisions of this section.
R905.8.1 Deck requirements. Wood shakes shall be used
only on solid or spaced sheathing. Where spaced sheathing
is used, sheathing boards shall not be less than 1 -inch by
4-inch (25 mm by 102 mm) nominal dimensions and shall
be spaced on centers equal to the weather exposure to
coincide with the placement of fasteners. Where l-inch by
4-inch (25 mm by 102 mm) spaced sheathing is installed
at 10 inches (254 mm) on center, additional 1-inch by 4-
inch (25 mm by 102 mm) boards shall be installed
between the sheathing boards.
R905.8.1.1 Solid sheathing required. In areas where
the average daily temperature in January is 25°F (-4°C)
or less, solid sheathing is required on that portion of the
roof requiring an ice barrier.
R905.8.2 Deck slope. Wood shakes shall only be used on
slopes of three units vertical in 12 units horizontal (25-per-
cent slope) or greater.
R905.8.3 Underlayment. Underlayment shall comply
with ASTM D 226, Type I or ASTM D 4869, Type I or II.
R905.8.3.1 Ice barrier. In areas where there has been a
history of ice forming along the eaves causing a backup
of water as designated in Table R301 .2(1), an ice bar-
rier that consists of at least two layers of underlayment
cemented together or a self-adhering polymer modified
bitumen sheet shall be used in place of normal under-
layment and extend from the lowest edges of all roof
surfaces to a point at least 24 inches (610 mm) inside
the exterior wall line of the building.
Exception: Detached accessory structures that con-
tain no conditioned floor area.
R905.8.3.2 Underlayment and high winds. Underlay-
ment applied in areas subject to high winds [above 110
mph (49 m/s) in accordance with Figure R301.2(4)A]
shall be applied with corrosion-resistant fasteners in
accordance with manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions. Fasteners are to be applied along the overlap not
farther apart than 36 inches (914 mm) on center.
Underlayment installed where the basic wind speed
equals or exceeds 120 mph (54 m/s) shall comply with
ASTM D 226 Type II or ASTM D 4869 Type IV. The
underlayment shall be attached in a grid pattern of 12
inches (305 mm) between side laps with a 6-inch (152
mm) spacing at the side laps. Underlayment shall be
applied in accordance with Section R905.2.7 except all
laps shall be a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm). Under-
layment shall be attached using metal or plastic cap
nails with a head diameter of not less than 1 inch (25.4
mm) with a thickness of at least 32-gauge sheet metal.
The cap-nail shank shall be a minimum of 12 gauge
(0.105 inches) with a length to penetrate through the
roof sheathing or a minimum of 3 / 4 inch (19 mm) into
the roof sheathing.
Exception: As an alternative, adhered underlayment
complying with ASTM D 1970 shall be permitted.
R905.8.4 Interlayment. Interlayment shall comply with
ASTM D 226, Type I.
R905.8.5 Material standards. Wood shakes shall comply
with the requirements of Table R905.8.5.
446
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF ASSEMBLIES
TABLE R905.8.5
WOOD SHAKE MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS
MATERIAL
MINIMUM
GRADES
APPLICABLE
GRADING RULES
Wood shakes of naturally durable
wood
1
Cedar Shake and
Shingle Bureau
Taper sawn shakes of naturally dura-
ble wood
1 or 2
Cedar Shake and
Shingle Bureau
Preservative-treated shakes and shin-
gles of naturally durable wood
1
Cedar Shake and
Shingle Bureau
Fire-retardant-treated shakes and
shingles of naturally durable wood
1
Cedar Shake and
Shingle Bureau
Preservative-treated taper sawn
shakes of Southern pine treated in
accordance with AWPA Standard Ul
(Commodity Specification A, Use
Category 3B and Section 5.6)
lor 2
Forest Products
Laboratory of the
Texas Forest Ser-
vices
R905.8.6 Application. Wood shakes shall be installed
according to this chapter and the manufacturer's installa-
tion instructions. Wood shakes shall be laid with a side lap
not less than 1 V 2 inches (38 mm) between joints in adja-
cent courses. Spacing between shakes in the same course
shall be 3 / s inch to % inch (9.5 mm to 15.9 mm) for shakes
and tapersawn shakes of naturally durable wood and shall
be 3 / 8 inch to 7 S inch (9.5 mm to 15.9 mm) for preserva-
tive-treated taper sawn shakes. Weather exposure for
wood shakes shall not exceed those set forth in Table
R905.8.6. Fasteners for wood shakes shall be corrosion-
resistant, with a minimum penetration of 7 2 inch (12.7
mm) into the sheathing. For sheathing less than 7 2 inch
(12.7 mm) thick, the fasteners shall extend through the
sheathing. Wood shakes shall be attached to the roof with
two fasteners per shake, positioned no more than 1 inch
(25 mm) from each edge and no more than 2 inches (51
mm) above the exposure line.
TABLE R905.8.6
WOOD SHAKE WEATHER EXPOSURE AND ROOF SLOPE
ROOFING
MATERIAL
LENGTH
(inches)
GRADE
EXPOSURE
(inches)
4:12 pitch or
steeper
Shakes of natu-
rally durable
wood
18
No. 1
7'/ 2
24
No. 1
10 a
Preservative-
treated taper
sawn shakes of
Southern Yel-
low Pine
18
No. 1
77 2
24
No. 1
10
18
No. 2
57 2
24
No. 2
77,
Taper-sawn
shakes of natu-
rally durable
wood
18
No. 1
77,
24
No. 1
10
18
No. 2
57 2
24
No. 2
77 2
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. For 24-inch by 7 8 -inch handsplit shakes, the maximum exposure is 77,
inches.
R905.8.7 Shake placement. The starter course at the
eaves shall be doubled and the bottom layer shall be either
15-inch (381 mm), 18-inch (457 mm) or 24-inch (610
mm) wood shakes or wood shingles. Fifteen-inch (381
mm) or 18-inch (457 mm) wood shakes may be used for
the final course at the ridge. Shakes shall be interlaid with
18-inch-wide (457 mm) strips of not less than No. 30 felt
shingled between each course in such a manner that no felt
is exposed to the weather by positioning the lower edge of
each felt strip above the butt end of the shake it covers a
distance equal to twice the weather exposure.
R905.8.8 Valley flashing. Roof valley flashing shall not
be less than No. 26 gage [0.019 inch (0.5 mm)] corrosion-
resistant sheet metal and shall extend at least 1 1 inches
(279 mm) from the centerline each way. Sections of flash-
ing shall have an end lap of not less than 4 inches (102
mm).
R905.8.9 Label required. Each bundle of shakes shall be
identified by a label of an approved grading or inspection
bureau or agency.
R905.9 Built-up roofs. The installation of built-up roofs
shall comply with the provisions of this section.
R905.9.1 Slope. Built-up roofs shall have a design slope
of a minimum of one-fourth unit vertical in 12 units hori-
zontal (2-percent slope) for drainage, except for coal-tar
built-up roofs, which shall have a design slope of a mini-
mum one-eighth unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (1 -per-
cent slope).
R905.9.2 Material standards. Built-up roof covering
materials shall comply with the standards in Table
R905.9.2 or UL 55A.
R905.9.3 Application. Built-up roofs shall be installed
according to this chapter and the manufacturer's installa-
tion instructions.
M905.10 Metal roof panels. The installation of metal roof
panels shall comply with the provisions of this section.
R905.10.1 Deck requirements. Metal roof panel roof
coverings shall be applied to solid or spaced sheathing,
except where the roof covering is specifically designed to
be applied to spaced supports.
R905.10.2 Slope. Minimum slopes for metal roof panels
shall comply with the following:
1. The minimum slope for lapped, nonsoldered-seam
metal roofs without applied lap sealant shall be three
units vertical in 12 units horizontal (25-percent
slope).
2. The minimum slope for lapped, nonsoldered-seam
metal roofs with applied lap sealant shall be one-half
vertical unit in 12 units horizontal (4-percent slope).
Lap sealants shall be applied in accordance with the
approved manufacturer's installation instructions.
3. The minimum slope for standing-seam roof systems
shall be one-quarter unit vertical in 12 units horizon-
tal (2-percent slope).
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
447
ROOF ASSEMBLIES
R905.10.3 Material standards. Metal-sheet roof cover-
ing systems that incorporate supporting structural mem-
bers shall be designed in accordance with the International
Building Code. Metal-sheet roof coverings installed over
structural decking shall comply with Table R905. 10.3(1).
The materials used for metal-sheet roof coverings shall be
naturally corrosion resistant or provided with corrosion
resistance in accordance with the standards and minimum
thicknesses shown in Table R905. 10.3(2).
TABLE R905.9.2
BUILT-UP ROOFING MATERIAL STANDARDS
MATERIAL STANDARD
STANDARD
Acrylic coatings used in roofing
ASTM D 6083
Aggregate surfacing
ASTM D 1863
Asphalt adhesive used in roofing
ASTM D 3747
Asphalt cements used in roofing
ASTM D 2822; D 3019; D 4586
Asphalt-coated glass fiber base sheet
ASTM D 4601
Asphalt coatings used in roofing
ASTM D 1227; D 2823; D 2824; D 4479
Asphalt glass felt
ASTM D 2178
Asphalt primer used in roofing
ASTM D 41
Asphalt-saturated and asphalt-coated organic felt base sheet
ASTM D 2626
Asphalt- saturated organic felt (perforated)
ASTM D 226
Asphalt used in roofing
ASTM D 312
Coal-tar cements used in roofing
ASTM D 4022; D 5643
Coal-tar primer used in roofing, dampproofing and waterproofing
ASTM D 43
Coal-tar saturated organic felt
ASTM D 227
Coal-tar used in roofing
ASTM D 450, Type I or II
Glass mat, coal tar
ASTM D 4990
Glass mat, venting type
ASTM D 4897
Mineral-surfaced inorganic cap sheet
ASTM D 3909
Thermoplastic fabrics used in roofing ASTM D 5665; D 5726
TABLE R905.1 0.3(1)
METAL ROOF COVERING STANDARDS
ROOF COVERING TYPE
STANDARD APPLICATION RATE/THICKNESS
Galvanized steel
ASTM A 653 G90 Zinc coated
Stainless steel
ASTM A 240, 300 Series alloys
Steel
ASTM A 924
Lead-coated copper
ASTM B 101
Cold-rolled copper
ASTM B 370 minimum 16 oz/sq ft and 12 oz/sq ft high-yield copper for metal-sheet roof-
covering systems; 12 oz/sq ft for preformed metal shingle systems.
Hard lead
2 lb/sq ft
Soft lead
3 lb/sq ft
Aluminum
ASTM B 209, 0.024 minimum thickness for roll-formed panels and 0.019-inch minimum
thickness for pressformed shingles.
Terne (tin) and terne-coated stainless
Terne coating of 40 lb per double base box, field painted where applicable in accordance with
manufacturer's installation instructions.
Zinc
0.027 inch minimum thickness: 99.995% electrolytic high-grade zinc with alloy additives of
copper (0.08 - 0.20%), titanium (0.07% - 0.12%) and aluminum (0.015%).
For SI: 1 ounce per square foot = 0.305 kg/m 2 , 1 pound per square foot. = 4.214 kg/nr, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I pound = 0.454 kg.
448
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ROOF ASSEMBLIES
TABLE R905.1 0.3(2)
MINIMUM CORROSION RESISTANCE
55% aluminum-zinc alloy coated steel
ASTM A 792 AZ 50
5% aluminum alloy-coated steel
ASTM A 875 GF60
Aluminum-coated steel
ASTM A 463 T2 65
Galvanized steel
ASTM A 653 G-90
Prepainted steel
ASTM A 755"
R905.ll. 2 Material standards. Modified bitumen roof
coverings shall comply with the standards in Table
R905.11.2.
TABLE R905.11.2
MODIFIED BITUMEN ROOFING MATERIAL STANDARDS
a. Paint systems in accordance with ASTM A 755 shall be applied over steel
products with corrosion-resistant coatings complying with ASTM A 792,
ASTM A 875, ASTM A 463, or ASTM A 653.
R905.10.4 Attachment. Metal roof panels shall be
secured to the supports in accordance with this chapter and
the manufacturer's installation instructions. In the absence
of manufacturer's installation instructions, the following
fasteners shall be used:
1. Galvanized fasteners shall be used for steel roofs.
2. Copper, brass, bronze, copper alloy and 300-series
stainless steel fasteners shall be used for copper
roofs.
3. Stainless steel fasteners are acceptable for metal
roofs.
R905.10.5 Underlayment. Undeiiayment shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installa-
tion instructions.
R90S. 10.5.1 Underlayment and high winds. Under-
layment applied in areas subject to high winds [above
110 mph (49 m/s) in accordance with Figure
R301.2(4)A] shall be applied with corrosion-resistant
fasteners in accordance with manufacturer's installa-
tion instructions. Fasteners are to be applied along the
overlap not farther apart than 36 inches (914 mm) on
center.
Underlayment installed where the basic wind speed
equals or exceeds 120 mph (54 m/s) shall comply with
ASTM D 226 Type II. The underlayment shall be
attached in a grid pattern of 12 inches (305 mm)
between side laps with a 6-inch (152 mm) spacing at
the side laps. Underlayment shall be applied in accor-
dance with Section R905.2.7 except all laps shall be a
minimum of 4 inches (102 mm). Underlayment shall be
attached using metal or plastic cap nails with a head
diameter of not less than 1 inch (25.4 mm) with a
thickness of at least 32-gauge sheet metal. The cap-nail
shank shall be a minimum of 12 gauge (0.105 inches)
with a length to penetrate through the roof sheathing or
a minimum of 3 / 4 inch (19 mm) into the roof sheathing.
Exception: As an alternative, adhered underlayment
complying with ASTM D 1970 shall be permitted.
R905.ll Modified bitumen roofing. The installation of
modified bitumen roofing shall comply with the provisions of
this section.
R905.11.1 Slope. Modified bitumen membrane roofs shall
have a design slope of a minimum of one-fourth unit verti-
cal in 1 2 units horizontal (2-percent slope) for drainage.
MATERIAL
STANDARD
Acrylic coating
ASTM D 6083
Asphalt adhesive
ASTM D 3747
Asphalt cement
ASTM D 3019
Asphalt coating
ASTM D 1227; D 2824
Asphalt primer
ASTM D 41
Modified bitumen roof membrane
ASTM D 6162; D 6163;
D 6164; D 6222; D 6223;
D 6298; CGSB 37-GP-56M
R905.11.3 Application. Modified bitumen roofs shall be
installed according to this chapter and the manufacturer's
installation instructions.
R905.12 Thermoset single-ply roofing. The installation of
thermoset single-ply roofing shall comply with the provisions
of this section.
R905.12.1 Slope. Thermoset single-ply membrane roofs
shall have a design slope of a minimum of one-fourth unit
vertical in 12 units horizontal (2-percent slope) for drain-
age.
R905.12.2 Material standards. Thermoset single-ply
roof coverings shall comply with ASTM D 4637, ASTM
D 5019 or CGSB 37-GP-52M.
R905.12.3 Application. Thermoset single-ply roofs shall
be installed according to this chapter and the manufac-
turer's installation instructions.
R905.13 Thermoplastic single-ply roofing. The installation
of thermoplastic single-ply roofing shall comply with the pro-
visions of this section.
R905.13.1 Slope. Thermoplastic single-ply membrane
roofs shall have a design slope of a minimum of one-
fourth unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (2-percent slope).
R905.13.2 Material standards. Thermoplastic single-ply
roof coverings shall comply with ASTM D 4434, ASTM
D 6754, ASTM D 6878 or CGSB CAN/CGSB 37.54.
R905.13.3 Application. Thermoplastic single-ply roofs
shall be installed according to this chapter and the manu-
facturer's installation instructions.
R905.14 Sprayed polyurethane foam roofing. The installa-
tion of sprayed polyurethane foam roofing shall comply with
the provisions of this section.
R905.14.1 Slope. Sprayed polyurethane foam roofs shall
have a design slope of a minimum of one-fourth unit verti-
cal in 12 units horizontal (2-percent slope) for drainage.
R905.14.2 Material standards. Spray-applied polyure-
thane foam insulation shall comply with ASTM C 1029,
Type III or IV.
R905.14.3 Application. Foamed-in-place roof insulation
shall be installed in accordance with this chapter and the
manufacturer's installation instructions. A liquid-applied
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449
ROOF ASSEMBLIES
protective coating that complies with Table R905.14.3
shall be applied no less than 2 hours nor more than 72
hours following the application of the foam.
TABLE R905.14.3
PROTECTIVE COATING MATERIAL STANDARDS
MATERIAL
STANDARD
Acrylic coating
ASTM D 6083
Silicone coating
ASTM D 6694
Moisture-cured polyurethane coating
ASTM D 6947
R905.14.4 Foam plastics. Foam plastic materials and
installation shall comply with Section R316.
R905.15 Liquid-applied roofing. The installation of liquid-
applied roofing shall comply with the provisions of this sec-
tion.
R905.15.1 Slope. Liquid-applied roofing shall have a
design slope of a minimum of one-fourth unit vertical in
12 units horizontal (2-percent slope).
R905.15.2 Materia! standards. Liquid-applied roofing
shall comply with ASTM C 836, C 957, D 1227, D 3468,
D 6083, D 6694 or D 6947.
R905.15.3 Application. Liquid-applied roofing shall be
installed according to this chapter and the manufacturer's
installation instructions.
R905.16 Photovoltaic modules/shingles. The installation of
photovoltaic modules/shingles shall comply with the provi-
sions of this section.
R905.16.1 Material standards. Photovoltaic modules/
shingles shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL
1703.
R905.16.2 Attachment. Photovoltaic modules/shingles
shall be attached in accordance with the manufacturer's
installation instructions.
R905.16.3 Wind resistance. Photovoltaic modules/shin-
gles shall be tested in accordance with procedures and
acceptance criteria in ASTM D 3161. Photovoltaic mod-
ules/shingles shall comply with the classification require-
ments of Table R905. 2.4.1(2) for the appropriate
maximum basic wind speed. Photovoltaic modules/shingle
packaging shall bear a label to indicate compliance with
the procedures in ASTM D 3161 and the required classifi-
cation from Table R905.2.4.1(2).
SECTION R906
ROOF INSULATION
R906.1 General. The use of above-deck thermal insulation
shall be permitted provided such insulation is covered with an
approved roof covering and complies with FM 4450 or UL
1256.
R906.2 Material standards. Above-deck thermal insulation
board shall comply with the standards in Table R906.2.
TABLE R906.2
MATERIAL STANDARDS FOR ROOF INSULATION
Cellular glass board
ASTM C 552
Composite boards
ASTM C 1289, Type III, IV, V
or VI
Expanded polystyrene
ASTM C 578
Extruded polystyrene board
ASTM C 578
Perlite board
ASTM C 728
Polyisocyanurate board
ASTM C 1289, Type I or II
Wood fiberboard
ASTM C 208
SECTION R907
REROOFING
R907.1 General. Materials and methods of application used
for re-covering or replacing an existing roof covering shall
comply with the requirements of Chapter 9.
Exception: Reroofing shall not be required to meet the
minimum design slope requirement of one-quarter unit
vertical in 12 units horizontal (2-percent slope) in Section
R905 for roofs that provide positive roof drainage.
R907.2 Structural and construction loads. The structural
roof components shall be capable of supporting the roof cov-
ering system and the material and equipment loads that will
be encountered during installation of the roof covering sys-
tem.
R907.3 Recovering versus replacement. New roof cover-
ings shall not be installed without first removing all existing
layers of roof coverings where any of the following condi-
tions exist:
1. Where the existing roof or roof covering is water-
soaked or has deteriorated to the point that the existing
roof or roof covering is not adequate as a base for addi-
tional roofing.
2. Where the existing roof covering is wood shake, slate,
clay, cement or asbestos-cement tile.
3. Where the existing roof has two or more applications of
any type of roof covering.
Exceptions:
1. Complete and separate roofing systems, such as
standing-seam metal roof systems, that are designed
to transmit the roof loads directly to the building's
structural system and that do not rely on existing
roofs and roof coverings for support, shall not
require the removal of existing roof coverings.
2. Installation of metal panel, metal shingle and con-
crete and clay tile roof coverings over existing wood
shake roofs shall be permitted when the application
is in accordance with Section R907.4.
450
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ROOF ASSEMBLIES
3. The application of new protective coating over
existing spray polyurethane foam roofing systems
shall be permitted without tear-off of existing roof
coverings.
4. Where the existing roof assembly includes an ice
barrier membrane that is adhered to the roof deck,
the existing ice barrier membrane shall be permitted
to remain in place and covered with an additional
layer of ice barrier membrane in accordance with
Section R905.
R907.4 Roof recovering. Where the application of a new
roof covering over wood shingle or shake roofs creates a
combustible concealed space, the entire existing surface shall
be covered with gypsum board, mineral fiber, glass fiber or
other approved materials securely fastened in place.
R907.5 Reinstallation of materials. Existing slate, clay or
cement tile shall be permitted for reinstallation, except that
damaged, cracked or broken slate or tile shall not be rein-
stalled. Any existing flashings, edgings, outlets, vents or sim-
ilar devices that are a part of the assembly shall be replaced
when rusted, damaged or deteriorated. Aggregate surfacing
materials shall not be reinstalled.
R907.6 Flashings. Flashings shall be reconstructed in accor-
dance with approved manufacturer's installation instructions.
Metal flashing to which bituminous materials are to be
adhered shall be primed prior to installation.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE® 451
452 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 10
IEYS AND FIREPLACES
SECTION R1001
MASONRY FIREPLACES
R1001.1 General. Masonry fireplaces shall be constructed in
accordance with this section and the applicable provisions of
Chapters 3 and 4.
R1001.2 Footings and foundations. Footings for masonry
fireplaces and their chimneys shall be constructed of concrete
or solid masonry at least 12 inches (305 mm) thick and shall
extend at least 6 inches (1 52 mm) beyond the face of the fire-
place or foundation wall on all sides. Footings shall be
founded on natural, undisturbed earth or engineered fill
below frost depth. In areas not subjected to freezing, footings
shall be at least 12 inches (305 mm) below finished grade.
R1001.2.1 Ash dump cleanout. Cleanout openings
located within foundation walls below fireboxes, when
provided, shall be equipped with ferrous metal or masonry
doors and frames constructed to remain tightly closed
except when in use. Cleanouts shall be accessible and
located so that ash removal will not create a hazard to
combustible materials.
R1001.3 Seismic reinforcing. Masonry or concrete chim-
neys in Seismic Design Category D , D, or D 2 shall be rein-
forced. Reinforcing shall conform to the requirements set
forth in Table R 100 1.1 and Section R609, Grouted Masonry.
R1001.3.1 Vertical reinforcing. For chimneys up to 40
inches (1016 mm) wide, four No. 4 continuous vertical
bars shall be placed between wythes of solid masonry or
within the cells of hollow unit masonry and grouted in
accordance with Section R609. Grout shall be prevented
from bonding with the flue liner so that the flue liner is
free to move with thermal expansion. For chimneys more
than 40 inches (1016 mm) wide, two additional No. 4 ver-
tical bars shall be provided for each additional flue incor-
porated into the chimney or for each additional 40 inches
(1016 mm) in width or fraction thereof.
R1001.3.2 Horizontal reinforcing. Vertical reinforce-
ment shall be placed within 7 4 -inch (6 mm) ties, or other
reinforcing of equivalent net cross-sectional area, placed
in the bed joints according to Section R607 at a minimum
of every 18 inches (457 mm) of vertical height. Two such
ties shall be installed at each bend in the vertical bars.
R1001.4 Seismic anchorage. Masonry or concrete chimneys
in Seismic Design Category D„, D, or D 2 shall be anchored at
each floor, ceiling or roof line more than 6 feet (1829 mm)
above grade, except where constructed completely within the
exterior walls. Anchorage shall conform to the requirements
of Section Rl 00 1.4.1.
R1001.4.1 Anchorage. Two 3 / l6 -inch by 1-inch (5 mm by
25 mm) straps shall be embedded a minimum of 12 inches
(305 mm) into the chimney. Straps shall be hooked around
the outer bars and extend 6 inches (152 mm) beyond the
bend. Each strap shall be fastened to a minimum of four
floor ceiling or floor joists or rafters with two V 2 -inch (13
mm) bolts.
R1001.5 Firebox walls. Masonry fireboxes shall be con-
structed of solid masonry units, hollow masonry units grouted
solid, stone or concrete. When a lining of firebrick at least 2
inches (5 1 mm) thick or other approved lining is provided,
the minimum thickness of back and side walls shall each be 8
inches (203 mm) of solid masonry, including the lining. The
width of joints between firebricks shall not be greater than 7 4
inch (6 mm). When no lining is provided, the total minimum
thickness of back and side walls shall be 10 inches (254 mm)
of solid masonry. Firebrick shall conform to ASTM C 27 or
C 1261 and shall be laid with medium duty refractory mortar
conforming to ASTM C 1 99.
R1001.5.1 Steel fireplace units. Installation of steel fire-
place units with solid masonry to form a masonry fireplace
is permitted when installed either according to the require-
ments of their listing or according to the requirements of
this section. Steel fireplace units incorporating a steel fire-
box lining, shall be constructed with steel not less than V 4
inch (6 mm) thick, and an air-circulating chamber which is
ducted to the interior of the building. The firebox lining
shall be encased with solid masonry to provide a total
thickness at the back and sides of not less than 8 inches
(203 mm), of which not less than 4 inches (102 mm) shall
be of solid masonry or concrete. Circulating air ducts used
with steel fireplace units shall be constructed of metal or
masonry.
R1001.6 Firebox dimensions. The firebox of a concrete or
masonry fireplace shall have a minimum depth of 20 inches
(508 mm). The throat shall not be less than 8 inches (203
mm) above the fireplace opening. The throat opening shall
not be less than 4 inches (102 mm) deep. The cross-sectional
area of the passageway above the firebox, including the
throat, damper and smoke chamber, shall not be less than the
cross-sectional area of the flue.
Exception: Rumford fireplaces shall be permitted pro-
vided that the depth of the fireplace is at least 1 2 inches
(305 mm) and at least one-third of the width of the fire-
place opening, that the throat is at least 12 inches (305
mm) above the lintel and is at least 7 20 the cross-sectional
area of the fireplace opening.
R1001.7 Lintel and throat. Masonry over a fireplace open-
ing shall be supported by a lintel of noncombustible material.
The minimum required bearing length on each end of the fire-
place opening shall be 4 inches (102 mm). The fireplace
throat or damper shall be located a minimum of 8 inches (203
mm) above the lintel.
R1001.7.1 Damper. Masonry fireplaces shall be equipped
with a ferrous metal damper located at least 8 inches (203
mm) above the top of the fireplace opening. Dampers shall
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
453
CHIMNEYS AND FIREPLACES
TABLE R1001.1
SUMMARY OF REQUIREMENTS FOR MASONRY FIREPLACES AND CHIMNEYS
ITEM
LETTER 8
REQUIREMENTS
Hearth slab thickness
A
4"
Hearth extension
(each side of opening)
B
8" fireplace opening < 6 square foot.
12" fireplace opening > 6 square foot.
Hearth extension
(front of opening)
C
16" fireplace opening < 6 square foot.
20" fireplace opening > 6 square foot.
Hearth slab reinforcing
D
Reinforced to carry its own weight and all imposed loads.
Thickness of wall of firebox
E
10" solid brick or 8" where a firebrick lining is used.
Joints in firebrick 7 4 " maximum.
Distance from top of opening to throat
F
8"
Smoke chamber wall thickness
Unlined walls
G
6"
8"
Chimney
Vertical reinforcing 11
H
Four No. 4 full-length bars for chimney up to 40" wide.
Add two No. 4 bars for each additional 40" or fraction of
width or each additional flue.
Horizontal reinforcing
J
V 4 " ties at 18" and two ties at each bend in vertical steel.
Bond beams
K
No specified requirements.
Fireplace lintel
L
Noncombustible material.
Chimney walls with flue lining
M
Solid masonry units or hollow masonry units grouted solid with
at least 4-inch nominal thickness.
Distances between adjacent flues
—
See Section R1003. 13.
Effective flue area (based on area of fireplace opening)
P
See Section R 1003. 15.
Clearances
Combustible material
Mantel and trim
Above roof
R
See Sections R1001.ll and Rl 003.18.
See Section R1001.11, Exception 4.
3' at roofline and 2' at 10'.
Anchorage b
Strap
Number
Embedment into chimney
Fasten to
Bolts
S
V'xl"
Two
12" hooked around outer bar with 6" extension.
4 joists
Two '/," diameter.
Footing
Thickness
Width
T
12"min.
6" each side of fireplace wall.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m 2 .
Note: This table provides a summary of major requirements for the construction of masonry chimneys and fireplaces. Letter references are to Figure R1001 . 1 ,
which shows examples of typical construction. This table does not cover all requirements, nor does it cover all aspects of the indicated requirements. For
the actual mandatory requirements of the code, see the indicated section of text.
a. The letters refer to Figure R1001.1 .
b. Not required in Seismic Design Category A, B or C.
be installed in the fireplace or the chimney venting the
fireplace, and shall be operable from the room containing
the fireplace.
R1001.8 Smoke chamber. Smoke chamber walls shall be
constructed of solid masonry units, hollow masonry units
grouted solid, stone or concrete. The total minimum thickness
of front, back and side walls shall be 8 inches (203 mm) of
solid masonry. The inside surface shall be parged smooth
with refractory mortar conforming to ASTM C 199. When a
lining of firebrick at least 2 inches (51 mm) thick, or a lining
of vitrified clay at least 5 / g inch (16 mm) thick, is provided,
the total minimum thickness of front, back and side walls
shall be 6 inches (152 mm) of solid masonry, including the
lining. Firebrick shall conform to ASTM C 1261 and shall be
laid with medium duty refractory mortar conforming to
ASTM C 199. Vitrified clay linings shall conform to ASTM
C315.
R1001.8.1 Smoke chamber dimensions. The inside
height of the smoke chamber from the fireplace throat to
the beginning of the flue shall not be greater than the
inside width of the fireplace opening. The inside surface of
the smoke chamber shall not be inclined more than 45
degrees (0.79 rad) from vertical when prefabricated smoke
chamber linings are used or when the smoke chamber
walls are rolled or sloped rather than corbeled. When the
inside surface of the smoke chamber is formed by corbeled
masonry, the walls shall not be corbeled more than 30
degrees (0.52 rad) from vertical.
454
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHIMNEYS AND FIREPLACES
(K) BOND BEAM
MORTAR CAP
©EFFECTIVE
FLUE AREA
HORIZONTAL
REINFORCING TIES
VERTICAL
REINFORCING
' REINFORCING TIES
V 2 IN. MIN,
. 4 IN. THICK MASONRY UNITS
/r>. VERTICAL REINFORCING
^ "Vty 20 IN. LAP IF SPLICED TO
FOOTING DOWELS
,-», FIREBOX WALL
»-<£/ THICKNESS
/=* FOOTING WIDTH
B-W 6 IN. AROUND
FREE STANDING
FIREPLACE
|7//W/AW\
NATURAL
GRADE
HEARTH 20 IN. MIN.
BRICK FIREBOX AND CHIMNEY-
SECTIONAL SIDE VIEW ON WOOD FLOOR
BRICK FIREBOX AND BLOCK CHIMNEY-
SECTIONAL SIDE VIEW ON CONCRETE SLAB
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE R1001.1
FIREPLACE AND CHIMNEY DETAILS
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
455
CHIMNEYS AND FIREPLACES
R1001.9 Hearth and hearth extension. Masonry fireplace
hearths and hearth extensions shall be constructed of concrete
or masonry, supported by noncombustible materials, and
reinforced to carry their own weight and all imposed loads.
No combustible material shall remain against the underside
of hearths and hearth extensions after construction.
R1001.9.1 Hearth thickness. The minimum thickness of
fireplace hearths shall be 4 inches (102 mm).
R1001.9.2 Hearth extension thickness. The minimum
thickness of hearth extensions shall be 2 inches (51 mm).
Exception: When the bottom of the firebox opening is
raised at least 8 inches (203 mm) above the top of the
hearth extension, a hearth extension of not less than 3 / 8 -
inch-thick (10 mm) brick, concrete, stone, tile or other
approved noncombustible material is permitted.
R1001.lt) Hearth extension dimensions. Hearth extensions
shall extend at least 16 inches (406 mm) in front of and at
least 8 inches (203 mm) beyond each side of the fireplace
opening. Where the fireplace opening is 6 square feet (0.6 m 2 )
or larger, the hearth extension shall extend at least 20 inches
(508 mm) in front of and at least 12 inches (305 mm) beyond
each side of the fireplace opening.
R1001.ll Fireplace clearance. All wood beams, joists, studs
and other combustible material shall have a clearance of not
less than 2 inches (51 mm) from the front faces and sides of
masonry fireplaces and not less than 4 inches (102 mm) from
the back faces of masonry fireplaces. The air space shall not
be filled, except to provide fire blocking in accordance with
Section R1001. 12.
Exceptions:
1. Masonry fireplaces listed and labeled for use in con-
tact with combustibles in accordance with UL 127
and installed in accordance with the manufacturer's
installation instructions are permitted to have com-
bustible material in contact with their exterior sur-
faces.
2. When masonry fireplaces are part of masonry or
concrete walls, combustible materials shall not be in
contact with the masonry or concrete walls less than
12 inches (306 mm) from the inside surface of the
nearest firebox lining.
3. Exposed combustible trim and the edges of sheath-
ing materials such as wood siding, flooring and dry-
wall shall be permitted to abut the masonry fireplace
side walls and hearth extension in accordance with
Figure R1001.ll, provided such combustible trim or
sheathing is a minimum of 12 inches (305 mm) from
the inside surface of the nearest firebox lining.
4. Exposed combustible mantels or trim may be placed
directly on the masonry fireplace front surrounding
the fireplace opening providing such combustible
materials are not placed within 6 inches ( 1 52 mm) of
a fireplace opening. Combustible material within 12
inches (306 mm) of the fireplace opening shall not
project more than V 8 inch (3 mm) for each 1-inch
(25 mm) distance from such an opening.
R1001.12 Fireplace fireblocking. Fireplace fireblocking
shall comply with the provisions of Section R602.8.
SECTION R1 002
MASONRY HEATERS
R1002.1 Definition. A masonry heater is a heating appliance
constructed of concrete or solid masonry, hereinafter referred
to as masonry, which is designed to absorb and store heat
from a solid-fuel fire built in the firebox by routing the
exhaust gases through internal heat exchange channels in
which the flow path downstream of the firebox may include
flow in a horizontal or downward direction before entering
the chimney and which delivers heat by radiation from the
masonry surface of the heater.
MASONRY
WOOD MANTEL
COMBUSTIBLE SHEATHING
EDGE ABUTTING MASONRY
12 IN. MIN. FROM FIREBOX
%-
FRAME WALL
2 IN. CLEARANCE (AIR SPACE)
TO COMBUSTIBLE FRAMING
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE Ft1001.11
CLEARANCE FROM COMBUSTIBLES
456
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHIMNEYS AND FIREPLACES
R1002.2 Installation. Masonry heaters shall be installed in
accordance with this section and comply with one of the fol-
lowing:
1. Masonry heaters shall comply with the requirements of
ASTME1602;or
2. Masonry heaters shall be listed and labeled in accor-
dance with UL 1482 and installed in accordance with
the manufacturer's installation instructions.
R1002.3 Footings and foundation. The firebox floor of a
masonry heater shall be a minimum thickness of 4 inches
(102 mm) of noncombustible material and be supported on a
noncombustible footing and foundation in accordance with
Section R1003.2.
R 1002.4 Seismic reinforcing. In Seismic Design Categories
D , D, and D 2 , masonry heaters shall be anchored to the
masonry foundation in accordance with Section Rl 003.3.
Seismic reinforcing shall not be required within the body of a
masonry heater whose height is equal to or less than 3.5 times
its body width and where the masonry chimney serving the
heater is not supported by the body of the heater. Where the
masonry chimney shares a common wall with the facing of
the masonry heater, the chimney portion of the structure shall
be reinforced in accordance with Section R1003.
R 1002.5 Masonry heater clearance. Combustible materials
shall not be placed within 36 inches (914 mm) of the outside
surface of a masonry heater in accordance with NFPA 211
Section 8-7 (clearances for solid-fuel-burning appliances),
and the required space between the heater and combustible
material shall be fully vented to permit the free flow of air
around all heater surfaces.
Exceptions:
1. When the masonry heater wall is at least 8 inches
(203 mm) thick of solid masonry and the wall of the
heat exchange channels is at least 5 inches (127 mm)
thick of solid masonry, combustible materials shall
not be placed within 4 inches (102 mm) of the out-
side surface of a masonry heater. A clearance of at
least 8 inches (203 mm) shall be provided between
the gas-tight capping slab of the heater and a com-
bustible ceiling.
2. Masonry heaters listed and labeled in accordance
with UL 1482 may be installed in accordance with
the listing specifications and the manufacturer's
written instructions.
SECTION R1003
MASONRY CHIMNEYS
R1003.1 Definition. A masonry chimney is a chimney con-
structed of solid masonry units, hollow masonry units grouted
solid, stone or concrete, hereinafter referred to as masonry.
Masonry chimneys shall be constructed, anchored, supported
and reinforced as required in this chapter.
R1003.2 Footings and foundations. Footings for masonry
chimneys shall be constructed of concrete or solid masonry at
least 12 inches (305 mm) thick and shall extend at least 6
inches ( 1 52 mm) beyond the face of the foundation or support
wall on all sides. Footings shall be founded on natural undis-
turbed earth or engineered fill below frost depth. In areas not
subjected to freezing, footings shall be at least 12 inches (305
mm) below finished grade.
R1003.3 Seismic reinforcing. Masonry or concrete chim-
neys shall be constructed, anchored, supported and reinforced
as required in this chapter. In Seismic Design Category D ,
D, or D 2 masonry and concrete chimneys shall be reinforced
and anchored as detailed in Section R1003.3.1, R1003.3.2
and R1003.4. In Seismic Design Category A, B or C, rein-
forcement and seismic anchorage is not required.
R 1003.3.1 Vertical reinforcing. For chimneys up to 40
inches (1016 mm) wide, four No. 4 continuous vertical
bars, anchored in the foundation, shall be placed in the
concrete, or between wythes of solid masonry, or within
the cells of hollow unit masonry, and grouted in accor-
dance with Section R609.1.1. Grout shall be prevented
from bonding with the flue liner so that the flue liner is
free to move with thermal expansion. For chimneys more
than 40 inches (1016 mm) wide, two additional No. 4 ver-
tical bars shall be installed for each additional 40 inches
(1016 mm) in width or fraction thereof.
R1003.3.2 Horizontal reinforcing. Vertical reinforce-
ment shall be placed enclosed within 7 4 -inch (6 mm) ties,
or other reinforcing of equivalent net cross-sectional area,
spaced not to exceed 18 inches (457 mm) on center in con-
crete, or placed in the bed joints of unit masonry, at a min-
imum of every 18 inches (457 mm) of vertical height. Two
such ties shall be installed at each bend in the vertical bars.
R1003.4 Seismic anchorage. Masonry and concrete chim-
neys and foundations in Seismic Design Category D , D, or
D 2 shall be anchored at each floor, ceiling or roof line more
than 6 feet (1829 mm) above grade, except where constructed
completely within the exterior walls. Anchorage shall con-
form to the requirements in Section R1003.4.1.
R1003.4.1 Anchorage. Two 3 / ]6 -inch by 1-inch (5 mm by
25 mm) straps shall be embedded a minimum of 12 inches
(305 mm) into the chimney. Straps shall be hooked around
the outer bars and extend 6 inches (152 mm) beyond the
bend. Each strap shall be fastened to a minimum of four
floor joists with two 7 2 -inch (13 mm) bolts.
Rl 003.5 Corbeling. Masonry chimneys shall not be corbeled
more than one-half of the chimney's wall thickness from a
wall or foundation, nor shall a chimney be corbeled from a
wall or foundation that is less than 12 inches (305 mm) thick
unless it projects equally on each side of the wall, except that
on the second story of a two-story dwelling, corbeling of
chimneys on the exterior of the enclosing walls may equal the
wall thickness. The projection of a single course shall not
exceed one-half the unit height or one-third of the unit bed
depth, whichever is less.
Rl 003.6 Changes in dimension. The chimney wall or chim-
ney flue lining shall not change in size or shape within 6
inches (152 mm) above or below where the chimney passes
through floor components, ceiling components or roof com-
ponents.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
457
CHIMNEYS AND FIREPLACES
R 1003.7 Offsets. Where a masonry chimney is constructed
with a fireclay flue liner surrounded by one wythe of
masonry, the maximum offset shall be such that the centerline
of the flue above the offset does not extend beyond the center
of the chimney wall below the offset. Where the chimney off-
set is supported by masonry below the offset in an approved
manner, the maximum offset limitations shall not apply. Each
individual corbeled masonry course of the offset shall not
exceed the projection limitations specified in Section
R1003.5.
R1003.8 Additional load. Chimneys shall not support loads
other than their own weight unless they are designed and con-
structed to support the additional load. Construction of
masonry chimneys as part of the masonry walls or reinforced
concrete walls of the building shall be permitted.
R1003.9 Termination. Chimneys shall extend at least 2 feet
(610 mm) higher than any portion of a building within 10 feet
(3048 mm), but shall not be less than 3 feet (914 mm) above
the highest point where the chimney passes through the roof.
R1003.9.1 Chimney caps. Masonry chimneys shall have
a concrete, metal or stone cap, sloped to shed water, a drip
edge and a caulked bond break around any flue liners in
accordance with ASTM C 1283.
R 1003.9.2 Spark arresters. Where a spark arrestor is
installed on a masonry chimney, the spark arrestor shall
meet all of the following requirements:
1 . The net free area of the arrestor shall not be less than
four times the net free area of the outlet of the chim-
ney flue it serves.
2. The arrestor screen shall have heat and corrosion
resistance equivalent to 19-gage galvanized steel or
24-gage stainless steel.
3. Openings shall not permit the passage of spheres
having a diameter greater than 7 2 inch (13 mm) nor
block the passage of spheres having a diameter less
than 3 / 8 inch (10 mm).
4. The spark arrestor shall be accessible for cleaning
and the screen or chimney cap shall be removable to
allow for cleaning of the chimney flue.
R 1003.9.3 Rain caps. Where a masonry or metal rain cap
is installed on a masonry chimney, the net free area under
the cap shall not be less than four times the net free area of
the outlet of the chimney flue it serves.
R1003.10 Wall thickness. Masonry chimney walls shall be
constructed of solid masonry units or hollow masonry units
grouted solid with not less than a 4-inch (102 mm) nominal
thickness.
R 1003.10.1 Masonry veneer chimneys. Where masonry
is used to veneer a frame chimney, through-flashing and
weep holes shall be installed as required by Section R703.
R1003.ll Flue lining (material). Masonry chimneys shall
be lined. The lining material shall be appropriate for the type
of appliance connected, according to the terms of the appli-
ance listing and manufacturer's instructions.
R1003.ll. 1 Residential-type appliances (general). Flue
lining systems shall comply with one of the following:
1. Clay flue lining complying with the requirements of
ASTM C 315.
2. Listed and labeled chimney lining systems comply-
ing with UL 1777.
3. Factory-built chimneys or chimney units listed for
installation within masonry chimneys.
4. Other approved materials that will resist corrosion,
erosion, softening or cracking from flue gases and
condensate at temperatures up to 1,800°F (982°C).
Rl 003.11.2 Flue linings for specific appliances. Flue lin-
ings other than these covered in Section R 1003. 11.1,
intended for use with specific types of appliances, shall
comply with Sections R1003. 1 1 .3 through Rl 003. 1 1 .6.
R1003.11.3 Gas appliances. Flue lining systems for gas
appliances shall be in accordance with Chapter 24.
R1003.11.4 Pellet fuel-burning appliances. Flue lining
and vent systems for use in masonry chimneys with pellet
fuel-burning appliances shall be limited to the following:
1. Flue lining systems complying with Section
R1003.11.1.
2. Pellet vents listed for installation within masonry
chimneys. (See Section R1003.U.6 for marking.)
R1003.11.5 Oil-fired appliances approved for use with
Type L vent. Flue lining and vent systems for use in
masonry chimneys with oil-fired appliances approved for
use with Type L vent shall be limited to the following:
1. Flue lining systems complying with Section
R1003.ll. 1.
2. Listed chimney liners complying with UL 641. (See
Section Rl 003.1 1.6 for marking.)
R1003.ll .6 Notice of usage. When a flue is relined with a
material not complying with Section R 1003. 11.1, the
chimney shall be plainly and permanently identified by a
label attached to a wall, ceiling or other conspicuous loca-
tion adjacent to where the connector enters the chimney.
The label shall include the following message or equiva-
lent language:
THIS CHIMNEY FLUE IS FOR USE ONLY WITH
[TYPE OR CATEGORY OF APPLIANCE] APPLI-
ANCES THAT BURN [TYPE OF FUEL]. DO NOT
CONNECT OTHER TYPES OF APPLIANCES.
R1003.12 Clay flue lining (installation). Clay flue liners
shall be installed in accordance with ASTM C 1283 and
extend from a point not less than 8 inches (203 mm) below
the lowest inlet or, in the case of fireplaces, from the top of
the smoke chamber to a point above the enclosing walls. The
lining shall be carried up vertically, with a maximum slope no
greater than 30 degrees (0.52 rad) from the vertical.
Clay flue liners shall be laid in medium-duty water insolu-
ble refractory mortar conforming to ASTM C 199 with tight
mortar joints left smooth on the inside and installed to main-
458
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHIMNEYS AND FIREPLACES
tain an air space or insulation not to exceed the thickness of
the flue liner separating the flue liners from the interior face
of the chimney masonry walls. Flue liners shall be supported
on all sides. Only enough mortar shall be placed to make the
joint and hold the liners in position.
R1003.12.1 Listed materials. Listed materials used as
flue linings shall be installed in accordance with the terms
of their listings and manufacturer's instructions.
R1003.12.2 Space around lining. The space surrounding
a chimney lining system or vent installed within a
masonry chimney shall not be used to vent any other
appliance.
Exception: This shall not prevent the installation of a
separate flue lining in accordance with the manufac-
turer's installation instructions.
R1003.13 Multiple flues. When two or more flues are
located in the same chimney, masonry wythes shall be built
between adjacent flue linings. The masonry wythes shall be at
least 4 inches (102 mm) thick and bonded into the walls of
the chimney.
Exception: When venting only one appliance, two flues
may adjoin each other in the same chimney with only the
flue lining separation between them. The joints of the
adjacent flue linings shall be staggered at least 4 inches
(102 mm).
R1003.14 Flue area (appliance). Chimney flues shall not be
smaller in area than that of the area of the connector from the
appliance [see Tables R1003.14(l) and R1003.14(2)]. The
sizing of a chimney flue to which multiple appliance venting
systems are connected shall be in accordance with Section
M1805.3.
R1003.15 Flue area (masonry fireplace). Flue sizing for
chimneys serving fireplaces shall be in accordance with Sec-
tion Rl 003. 15.1 or Section R1003. 15.2.
Rl 003. 15.1 Option 1. Round chimney flues shall have a
minimum net cross-sectional area of at least 7 ]2 of the fire-
place opening. Square chimney flues shall have a mini-
mum net cross-sectional area of 7 10 of the fireplace
opening. Rectangular chimney flues with an aspect ratio
less than 2 to 1 shall have a minimum net cross-sectional
area of 7 10 of the fireplace opening. Rectangular chimney
flues with an aspect ratio of 2 to 1 or more shall have a
minimum net cross-sectional area of 7 8 of the fireplace
opening. Cross-sectional areas of clay flue linings are
shown in Tables R1003.14(l) and R 1003.14(2) or as pro-
vided by the manufacturer or as measured in the field.
R1003.15.2 Option 2. The minimum net cross-sectional
area of the chimney flue shall be determined in accordance
with Figure R1003.15.2. A flue size providing at least the
equivalent net cross-sectional area shall be used. Cross-
sectional areas of clay flue linings are shown in Tables
R1003.14(l) and R1003.14(2) or as provided by the manu-
facturer or as measured in the field. The height of the
chimney shall be measured from the firebox floor to the
top of the chimney flue.
R1003.16 Inlet. Inlets to masonry chimneys shall enter from
the side. Inlets shall have a thimble of fireclay, rigid refrac-
tory material or metal that will prevent the connector from
pulling out of the inlet or from extending beyond the wall of
the liner.
R1003.17 Masonry chimney cleanout openings. Cleanout
openings shall be provided within 6 inches (152 mm) of the
base of each flue within every masonry chimney. The upper
edge of the cleanout shall be located at least 6 inches (152
mm) below the lowest chimney inlet opening. The height of
the opening shall be at least 6 inches (152 mm). The cleanout
shall be provided with a noncombustible cover.
Exception: Chimney flues serving masonry fireplaces
where cleaning is possible through the fireplace opening.
TABLE R1003.14(1)
NET CROSS-SECTIONAL AREA OF ROUND FLUE SIZES"
FLUE SIZE, INSIDE DIAMETER
(inches)
CROSS-SECTIONAL AREA
(square inches)
6
28
7
38
8
50
10
78
107 4
90
12
113
15
176
18
254
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 square inch = 645. 16 mm 2 ,
a. Flue sizes are based on ASTM C 3 15.
TABLE R1 003.1 4(2)
NET CROSS-SECTIONAL AREA OF SQUARE AND
RECTANGULAR FLUE SIZES
FLUE SIZE, OUTSIDE NOMINAL
DIMENSIONS (inches)
CROSS-SECTIONAL AREA
(square inches)
4.5 x 8.5
23
4.5x13
34
8x8
42
8.5 x 8.5
49
8x12
67
8.5 x 13
76
12 x 12
102
8.5 x 18
101
13x13
127
12x16
131
13x18
173
16x16
181
16x20
222
18 x 18
233
20x20
298
20 x 24
335
24x24
431
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 square inch = 645. 16 mm*.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
459
CHIMNEYS AND FIREPLACES
R1003.18 Chimney clearances. Any portion of a masonry chim-
ney located in the interior of the building or within the exterior
wall of the building shall have a minimum air space clearance to
combustibles of 2 inches (51 mm). Chimneys located entirely out-
side the exterior walls of the building, including chimneys that pass
through the soffit or cornice, shall have a minimum air space clear-
ance of 1 inch (25 mm). The air space shall not be filled, except to
provide fire blocking in accordance with Section R1003.19.
Exceptions:
1 . Masonry chimneys equipped with a chimney lining
system listed and labeled for use in chimneys in
contact with combustibles in accordance with UL
1777 and installed in accordance with the manufac-
turer' s installation instructions are permitted to have
combustible material in contact with their exterior
surfaces.
When masonry chimneys are constructed as part of
masonry or concrete walls, combustible materials
shall not be in contact with the masonry or concrete
wall less than 12 inches (305 mm) from the inside
surface of the nearest flue lining.
Exposed combustible trim and the edges of sheath-
ing materials, such as wood siding and flooring,
shall be permitted to abut the masonry chimney side
269
214
168
124
91
82
58
37
3000
"■800
Z.OUU
n 4Q0
224
187
z
<
LU
5 140
<
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-SECTIONA
o
V)
CO
o
a.
O
- 10UU
inn
S 76
5
70
600
53
400
32
"■00
SQUARE OR
RECTANGULAR
FLUES
3 1
4 1
5
6 1
HEK
OF
7 1
3HT, ME
COMBl
TOF
8 1
ASURED
STION C
OF FLU
9 ;
FROMF
;hambe
= (FT|
10 2
LOOR
1TO
1 ;
>2 2
3 2
4 ;
Ol
FIREPLACE
OPENING AREA
(SQ. IN.)
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square inch = 645.16 mm 2
FIGURE R1 003.1 5.2
FLUE SIZES FOR MASONRY CHIMNEYS
460
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHIMNEYS AND FIREPLACES
walls, in accordance with Figure R1003.18, pro-
vided such combustible trim or sheathing is a mini-
mum of 12 inches (305 mm) from the inside surface
of the nearest flue lining. Combustible material and
trim shall not overlap the corners of the chimney by
more than 1 inch (25 mm).
R1003.19 Chimney fireblocking. All spaces between chim-
neys and floors and ceilings through which chimneys pass
shall be fireblocked with noncombustible material securely
fastened in place. The fireblocking of spaces between chim-
neys and wood joists, beams or headers shall be self-support-
ing or be placed on strips of metal or metal lath laid across the
spaces between combustible material and the chimney.
R 1003.20 Chimney crickets. Chimneys shall be provided
with crickets when the dimension parallel to the ridgeline is
greater than 30 inches (762 mm) and does not intersect the
ridgeline. The intersection of the cricket and the chimney
shall be flashed and counterflashed in the same manner as
normal roof-chimney intersections. Crickets shall be con-
structed in compliance with Figure R 1003. 20 and Table
R1003.20.
TABLE R1003.20
CRICKET DIMENSIONS
ROOF SLOPE
H
12-12
7 2 of W
8-12
7,ofW
6- 12
7 4 ofW
4- 12
7 6 ofW
3- 12
7 8 ofW
SECTION R1 004
FACTORY-BUILT FIREPLACES
R1004.1 General. Factory-built fireplaces shall be listed and
labeled and shall be installed in accordance with the condi-
tions of the listing. Factory-built fireplaces shall be tested in
accordance with UL 127.
MASONRY ABUTTING
COMBUSTIBLE SHEATHING
12 IN. FROM FLUE LINING
1 IN. CLEARANCE (AIR SPACE),
TO COMBUSTIBLE SHEATHING
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R1003.18
CLEARANCE FROM COMBUSTIBLES
FLUE LINER
ROOF LINE
^\NK\\1k\\\1Nk\\NK\\ v
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE R1003.20
CHIMNEY CRICKET
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
461
CHIMNEYS AND FIREPLACES
Rl 004.2 Hearth extensions. Hearth extensions of approved
factory-built fireplaces shall be installed in accordance with
the listing of the fireplace. The hearth extension shall be read-
ily distinguishable from the surrounding floor area. Listed
and labeled hearth extensions shall comply with UL 1618.
R1004.3 Decorative shrouds. Decorative shrouds shall not
be installed at the termination of chimneys for factory-built
fireplaces except where the shrouds are listed and labeled for
use with the specific factory-built fireplace system and
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation
instructions.
R1004.4 Unvented gas log heaters. An unvented gas log
heater shall not be installed in a factory-built fireplace unless
the fireplace system has been specifically tested, listed and
labeled for such use in accordance with UL 127.
SECTION R1 005
FACTORY-BUILT CHIMNEYS
R1005.1 Listing. Factory-built chimneys shall be listed and
labeled and shall be installed and terminated in accordance
with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
R1005.2 Decorative shrouds. Decorative shrouds shall not
be installed at the termination of factory-built chimneys
except where the shrouds are listed and labeled for use with
the specific factory-built chimney system and installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
R1005.3 Solid-fuel appliances. Factory-built chimneys
installed in dwelling units with solid-fuel-burning appliances
shall comply with the Type HT requirements of UL 103 and
shall be marked "Type HT and "Residential Type and Build-
ing Heating Appliance Chimney."
Exception: Chimneys for use with open combustion
chamber fireplaces shall comply with the requirements of
UL 1 03 and shall be marked "Residential Type and Build-
ing Heating Appliance Chimney."
Chimneys for use with open combustion chamber
appliances installed in buildings other than dwelling units
shall comply with the requirements of UL 103 and shall be
marked "Building Heating Appliance Chimney" or "Resi-
dential Type and Building Heating Appliance Chimney."
R1005.4 Factory-built fireplaces. Chimneys for use with
factory-built fireplaces shall comply with the requirements of
UL 127.
R1005.5 Support. Where factory-built chimneys are sup-
ported by structural members, such as joists and rafters, those
members shall be designed to support the additional load.
R1005.6 Medium-heat appliances. Factory-built chimneys
for medium-heat appliances producing flue gases having a
temperature above 1 ,000°F (538°C), measured at the entrance
to the chimney shall comply with UL 959.
R1005.7 Factory-built chimney offsets. Where a factory-
built chimney assembly incorporates offsets, no part of the
chimney shall be at an angle of more than 30 degrees from
vertical at any point in the assembly and the chimney assem-
bly shall not include more than four elbows.
SECTION R1 006
EXTERIOR AIR SUPPLY
R1006.1 Exterior air. Factory-built or masonry fireplaces
covered in this chapter shall be equipped with an exterior air
supply to assure proper fuel combustion unless the room is
mechanically ventilated and controlled so that the indoor
pressure is neutral or positive.
R1006.1.1 Factory-built fireplaces. Exterior combustion
air ducts for factory-built fireplaces shall be a listed com-
ponent of the fireplace and shall be installed according to
the fireplace manufacturer's instructions.
R1006.1.2 Masonry fireplaces. Listed combustion air
ducts for masonry fireplaces shall be installed according to
the terms of their listing and the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
R1006.2 Exterior air intake. The exterior air intake shall be
capable of supplying all combustion air from the exterior of
the dwelling or from spaces within the dwelling ventilated
with outside air such as nonmechanically ventilated crawl or
attic spaces. The exterior air intake shall not be located within
the garage or basement of the dwelling nor shall the air intake
be located at an elevation higher than the firebox. The exte-
rior air intake shall be covered with a corrosion-resistant
screen of V 4 -inch (6 mm) mesh.
R1006.3 Clearance. Unlisted combustion air ducts shall be
installed with a minimum 1 -inch (25 mm) clearance to com-
bustibles for all parts of the duct within 5 feet (1524 mm) of
the duct outlet.
R1006.4 Passageway. The combustion air passageway shall
be a minimum of 6 square inches (3870 mm 2 ) and not more
than 55 square inches (0.035 m 2 ), except that combustion air
systems for listed fireplaces shall be constructed according to
the fireplace manufacturer's instructions.
R1006.5 Outlet. Locating the exterior air outlet in the back
or sides of the firebox chamber or within 24 inches (610 mm)
of the firebox opening on or near the floor is permitted. The
outlet shall be closable and designed to prevent burning mate-
rial from dropping into concealed combustible spaces.
462
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
Part IV— Energy Conservation
CHAPTER 11 [RE]
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
SECTION N1101
GENERAL
N1101.1 Scope. This chapter regulates the energy efficiency
for the design and construction of buildings regulated by this
code.
Note: The text of the following Sections Nl 101.2 through
N1105 is extracted from the 2012 edition of the International
Energy Conservation Code — Residential Provisions and has
been editorially revised to conform to the scope and applica-
tion of this code. The section numbers appearing in parenthe-
sis after each section number are the section numbers of the
corresponding text in the International Energy Conservation
Code — Residential Provisions.
N1101.2 (R101.3) Intent. This code shall regulate the design
and construction of buildings for the effective use and conser-
vation of energy over the useful life of each building. This
code is intended to provide flexibility to permit the use of
innovative approaches and techniques to achieve this objec-
tive. This code is not intended to abridge safety, health or
environmental requirements contained in other applicable
codes or ordinances.
N1101.3 (R101.4.3) Additions, alterations, renovations or
repairs. Additions, alterations, renovations or repairs to an
existing building, building system or portion thereof shall
conform to the provisions of this code as they relate to new
construction without requiring the unaltered portion(s) of the
existing building or building system to comply with this code.
Additions, alterations, renovations or repairs shall not create
an unsafe or hazardous condition or overload existing build-
ing systems. An addition shall be deemed to comply with this
code if the addition alone complies or if the existing building
and addition comply with this code as a single building.
Exception: The following need not comply provided the
energy use of the building is not increased:
1 . Storm windows installed over existing fenestration.
2. Glass only replacements in an existing sash and
frame.
3. Existing ceiling, wall or floor cavities exposed dur-
ing construction provided that these cavities are
filled with insulation.
4. Construction where the existing roof, wall or floor
cavity is not exposed.
5. Reroofing for roofs where neither the sheathing nor
the insulation is exposed. Roofs without insulation
in the cavity and where the sheathing or insulation is
exposed during reroofing shall be insulated either
above or below the sheathing.
6. Replacement of existing doors that separate condi-
tioned space from the exterior shall not require the
installation of a vestibule or revolving door, pro-
vided, however, that an existing vestibule that sepa-
rates a conditioned space from the exterior shall not
be removed.
7. Alterations that replace less than 50 percent of the
luminaires in a space, provided that such alterations
do not increase the installed interior lighting power.
8. Alterations that replace only the bulb and ballast
within the existing luminaires in a space provided
that the alteration does not increase the installed
interior lighting power.
N1101.4 (R101.4.5) Change in space conditioning. Any
nonconditioned space that is altered to become conditioned
space shall be required to be brought into full compliance
with this chapter.
N1101.5 (R101.5.1) Compliance materials. The building
official shall be permitted to approve specific computer soft-
ware, worksheets, compliance manuals and other similar
materials that meet the intent of this code.
N1101.6 (R101.5.2) Low-energy buildings. The following
buildings, or portions thereof, separated from the remainder
of the building by building thermal envelope assemblies com-
plying with this code shall be exempt from the building ther-
mal envelope provisions of this code:
1 . Those with a peak design rate of energy usage less than
3.4 Btu/h-ft 2 (10.7 W/m 2 ) or 1.0 watt/ft 2 (10.7 W/m 2 ) of
floor area for space conditioning purposes.
2. Those that do not contain conditioned space.
N1101.7 (R102.1.1) Above code programs. The building
official or other authority having jurisdiction shall be permit-
ted to deem a national, state or local energy -efficiency pro-
gram to exceed the energy efficiency required by this code.
Buildings approved in writing by such an energy-efficiency
program shall be considered in compliance with this code.
The requirements identified as "mandatory" in Chapters 4
and 5 of this code, as applicable, shall be met.
N1101.8 (R103.2) Information on construction docu-
ments. Construction documents shall be drawn to scale upon
suitable material. Electronic media documents are permitted
to be submitted when approved by the building official. Con-
struction documents shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate
the location, nature and extent of the work proposed, and
show in sufficient detail pertinent data and features of the
building, systems and equipment as herein governed. Details
shall include, but are not limited to, as applicable, insulation
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE*
463
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
materials and their ^-values; fenestration £/-factors and
SHGCs; area-weighted ^/-factor and SHGC calculations;
mechanical system design criteria; mechanical and service
water heating system and equipment types, sizes and efficien-
cies; economizer description; equipment and systems con-
trols; fan motor horsepower (hp) and controls; duct sealing,
duct and pipe insulation and location; lighting fixture sched-
ule with wattage and control narrative; and air sealing details.
N1101.9 (R202) Defined terms. The following words and
terms shall, for the purposes of this chapter, have the mean-
ings shown herein.
ABOVE-GRADE WALL. A wall more than 50 percent above
grade and enclosing conditioned space. This includes
between-floor spandrels, peripheral edges of floors, roof and
basement knee walls, dormer walls, gable end walls, walls
enclosing a mansard roof and skylight shafts.
ACCESSIBLE. Admitting close approach as a result of not
being guarded by locked doors, elevation or other effective
means (see "Readily accessible").
ADDITION. An extension or increase in the conditioned
space floor area or height of a building or structure.
AIR BARRIER. Material(s) assembled and joined together to
provide a barrier to air leakage through the building envelope.
An air barrier may be a single material or a combination of
materials.
AUTOMATIC. Self-acting, operating by its own mechanism
when actuated by some impersonal influence, as, for exam-
ple, a change in current strength, pressure, temperature or
mechanical configuration (see "Manual").
BASEMENT WALL. A wall 50 percent or more below grade
and enclosing conditioned space.
BUILDING. Any structure used or intended for supporting or
sheltering any use or occupancy, including any mechanical
systems, service water heating systems and electric power
and lighting systems located on the building site and support-
ing the building.
BUILDING STTE. A continguous area of land that is under
the ownership or control of one entity.
BUILDING THERMAL ENVELOPE. The basement walls,
exterior walls, floor, roof, and any other building elements that
enclose conditioned space or provides a boundary between
conditioned space and exempt or unconditioned space.
C-FACTOR (THERMAL CONDUCTANCE). The coeffi-
cient of heat transmission (surface to surface) through a build-
ing component or assembly, equal to the time rate of heat flow
per unit area and the unit temperature difference between the
warm side and cold side surfaces (Btu/h • ft 2 • °F) [W/(m 2 •
K)].
CONDITIONED FLOOR AREA. The horizontal projection
of the floors associated with the conditioned space.
CONDITIONED SPACE. An area or room within a building
being heated or cooled, containing uninsulated ducts, or with a
fixed opening directly into an adjacent conditioned space.
CONTINUOUS AIR BARRIER. A combination of materi-
als and assemblies that restrict or prevent the passage of air
through the building thermal envelope.
CRAWL SPACE WALL. The opaque portion of a wall that
encloses a crawl space and is partially or totally below grade.
DEMAND RECIRCULATION WATER SYSTEM. A water
distribution system where pump(s) prime the service hot water
piping with heated water upon demand for hot water.
DUCT. A tube or conduit utilized for conveying air. The air
passages of self-contained systems are not to be construed as
air ducts.
DUCT SYSTEM. A continuous passageway for the transmis-
sion of air that, in addition to ducts, includes duct fittings,
dampers, plenums, fans and accessory air-handling equipment
and appliances.
ENCLOSED SPACE. A volume surrounded by solid sur-
faces such as walls, floors, roofs, and openable devices such
as doors and operable windows.
ENERGY ANALYSIS. A method for estimating the annual
energy use of the proposed design and standard reference
design based on estimates of energy use.
ENERGY COST. The total estimated annual cost for pur-
chased energy for the building functions regulated by this code,
including applicable demand charges.
ENERGY SIMULATION TOOL. An approved software
program or calculation-based methodology that projects the
annual energy use of a building.
ENTRANCE DOOR. Fenestration products used for ingress,
egress and access in nonresidential buildings, including, but
not limited to, exterior entrances that utilize latching hardware
and automatic closers and contain over 50-percent glass specifi-
cally designed to withstand heavy use and possibly abuse.
EXTERIOR WALL. Walls including both above-grade walls
and basement walls.
FENESTRATION. Skylights, roof windows, vertical win-
dows (fixed or moveable), opaque doors, glazed doors, glazed
block and combination opaque/glazed doors. Fenestration
includes products with glass and nonglass glazing materials.
FENESTRATION PRODUCT, SITE-BUILT. A fenestra-
tion designed to be made up of field-glazed or field-assem-
bled units using specific factory cut or otherwise factory-
formed framing and glazing units. Examples of site-built
fenestration include storefront systems, curtain walls, and
atrium roof systems.
HEATED SLAB. Slab-on-grade construction in which the
heating elements, hydronic tubing, or hot air distribution sys-
tem is in contact with, or placed within or under, the slab.
HIGH-EFFICACY LAMPS. Compact fluorescent lamps,
T-8 or smaller diameter linear fluorescent lamps, or lamps
with a minimum efficacy of:
1 . 60 lumens per watt for lamps over 40 watts;
2. 50 lumens per watt for lamps over 15 watts to 40 watts;
and
3. 40 lumens per watt for lamps 15 watts or less.
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INFILTRATION. The uncontrolled inward air leakage into a
building caused by the pressure effects of wind or the effect of
differences in the indoor and outdoor air density or both.
INSULATING SHEATHING. An insulating board with a
core material having a minimum 7?-value of R-2.
LOW- VOLTAGE LIGHTING. Lighting equipment powered
through a transformer such as a cable conductor, a rail conduc-
tor and track lighting.
MANUAL. Capable of being operated by personal interven-
tion (see "Automatic").
PROPOSED DESIGN. A description of the proposed build-
ing used to estimate annual energy use for determining compli-
ance based on total building performance.
READILY ACCESSIBLE. Capable of being reached quickly
for operation, renewal or inspection without requiring those to
whom ready access is requisite to climb over or remove obsta-
cles or to resort to portable ladders or access equipment (see
"Accessible").
REPAIR. The reconstruction or renewal of any part of an exist-
ing building.
RESIDENTIAL BUILDING. For this code, includes
detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-
family dwellings (townhouses) as well as Group R-2, R-3 and
R-4 buildings three stories or less in height above grade plane.
R-VALUE (THERMAL RESISTANCE). The inverse of the
time rate of heat flow through a body from one of its bounding
surfaces to the other surface for a unit temperature difference
between the two surfaces, under steady state conditions, per
unit area (h • ft 2 • °F/Btu) [(m 2 ■ K)/W].
SERVICE WATER HEATING. Supply of hot water for pur-
poses other than comfort heating.
SKYLIGHT. Glass or other transparent or translucent glazing
material installed at a slope of less than 60 degrees (1 .05 rad)
from horizontal. Glazing material in skylights, including unit
skylights, solariums, sunrooms, roofs and sloped walls is
included in this definition.
SOLAR HEAT GAIN COEFFICIENT (SHGC). The ratio of
the solar heat gain entering the space through the fenestration
assembly to the incident solar radiation. Solar heat gain
includes directly transmitted solar heat and absorbed solar
radiation which is then reradiated, conducted or convected into
the space.
STANDARD REFERENCE DESIGN. A version of the pro-
posed design that meets the minimum requirements of this
code and is used to determine the maximum annual energy use
requirement for compliance based on total building perfor-
mance.
SUNROOM. A one-story structure attached to a dwelling with
a glazing area in excess of 40 percent of the gross area of the
structure's exterior walls and roof.
THERMAL ISOLATION. Physical and space conditioning
separation from conditioned space(s). The conditioned
space(s) shall be controlled as separate zones for heating and
cooling or conditioned by separate equipment.
THERMOSTAT. An automatic control device used to main-
tain temperature at a fixed or adjustable set point.
^/-FACTOR (THERMAL TRANSMITTANCE). The coeffi-
cient of heat transmission (air to air) through a building compo-
nent or assembly, equal to the time rate of heat flow per unit
area and unit temperature difference between the warm side
and cold side air films (Btu/h • ft 2 ■ °F) [W/(m 2 ■ K)].
VENTILATION AIR. That portion of supply air that comes
from outside (outdoors) plus any recirculated air that has been
treated to maintain the desired quality of air within a designated
space.
VISIBLE TRANSMITTANCE [VT]. The ratio of visible
light entering the space through the fenestration product
assembly to the incident visible light, visible transmittance,
includes the effects of glazing material and frame and is
expressed as a number between and 1 .
WHOLE HOUSE MECHANICAL VENTILATION SYS-
TEM. An exhaust system, supply system, or combination
thereof that is designed to mechanically exchange indoor air
with outdoor air when operating continuously or through a
programmed intermittent schedule to satisfy the whole house
ventilation rates.
ZONE. A space or group of spaces within a building with heat-
ing or cooling requirements that are sufficiently similar so that
desired conditions can be maintained throughout using a single
controlling device.
N1101.10 (R301.1) Climate zones. Climate zones from Fig-
ure N1101.10 or Table N1101.10 shall be used in determin-
ing the applicable requirements in Sections N1101 through
Nl 105. Locations not in Table Nl 101.10 (outside the United
States) shall be assigned a climate zone based on Section
N101.10.2.
N1101.10.1 (R301.2) Warm humid counties. Warm
humid counties are identified in Table Nl 101.10 by an
asterisk.
Nl 101.10.2 (R301.3) International climate zones. The
climate zone for any location outside the United States
shall be determined by applying Table Nl 101.10.2(1) and
then Table Nl 101.10.2(2).
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
465
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
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466
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
TABLE N1 101.10 (R301.1)
CLIMATE ZONES, MOISTURE REGIMES, AND WARM-HUMID
DESIGNATIONS BY STATE, COUNTY AND TERRITORY
Key: A - Moist, B - Dry, C - Marine. Absence of moisture designation indicates moisture regime is irrelevant.
Asterisk (*) indicates a warm-humid location.
ALABAMA
3A Autauga*
2A Baldwin*
3A Barbour*
3A Bibb
3A Blount
3A Bullock*
3A Butler*
3A Calhoun
3A Chambers
3A Cherokee
3A Chilton
3A Choctaw*
3A Clarke*
3A Clay
3A Cleburne
3A Coffee*
3A Colbert
3A Conecuh*
3A Coosa
3A Covington*
3A Crenshaw*
3A Cullman
3A Dale*
3A Dallas*
3A DeKalb
3A Elmore*
3A Escambia*
3A Etowah
3A Fayette
3A Franklin
3A Geneva*
3A Greene
3A Hale
3 A Henry*
3A Houston*
3A Jackson
3A Jefferson
3A Lamar
3A Lauderdale
3A Lawrence
3 A Lee
3A Limestone
3A Lowndes*
3 A Macon*
3A Madison
3A Marengo*
3A Marion
3A Marshall
2A Mobile*
3A Monroe*
3A Montgomery*
3A Morgan
3A Perry*
3 A Pickens
3A Pike*
3A Randolph
3A Russell*
3A Shelby
3A St. Clair
3A Sumter
3A Talladega
3A Tallapoosa
3A Tuscaloosa
3A Walker
3A Washington*
3A Wilcox*
3A Winston
ALASKA
7 Aleutians East
7 Aleutians West
7 Anchorage
8 Bethel
7 Bristol Bay
7 Denali
8 Dillingham
8 Fairbanks North
Star
7 Haines
7 Juneau
7 Kenai Peninsula
7 Ketchikan
Gateway
US STATES
7 Kodiak Island
7 Lake and
Peninsula
7 Matanuska-
Susitna
8 Nome
8 North Slope
8 Northwest Arctic
7 Prince of Wales
Outer Ketchikan
7 Sitka
7 Skagway-Hoonah-
Angoon
8 Southeast
Fairbanks
7 Valdez-Cordova
8 Wade Hampton
7 Wrangell-
Petersburg
7 Yakutat
8 Yukon-Koyukuk
ARIZONA
5B Apache
3B Cochise
5B Coconino
4B Gila
3B Graham
3B Greenlee
2B La Paz
2B Maricopa
3B Mohave
5B Navajo
2B Pima
2B Pinal
3B Santa Cruz
4B Yavapai
2B Yuma
ARKANSAS
3A Arkansas
3 A Ashley
4A Baxter
4A Benton
(continued)
4A Boone
3A Bradley
3A Calhoun
4A Carroll
3A Chicot
3A Clark
3A Clay
3A Cleburne
3A Cleveland
3A Columbia*
3A Conway
3A Craighead
3A Crawford
3A Crittenden
3A Cross
3A Dallas
3A Desha
3A Drew
3 A Faulkner
3 A Franklin
4A Fulton
3A Garland
3A Grant
3A Greene
3 A Hempstead*
3A Hot Spring
3A Howard
3A Independence
4A Izard
3A Jackson
3A Jefferson
3A Johnson
3A Lafayette*
3A Lawrence
3A Lee
3A Lincoln
3A Little River*
3A Logan
3A Lonoke
4A Madison
4A Marion
3A Miller*
3A Mississippi
3A Monroe
3A Montgomery
3A Nevada
4A Newton
3A Ouachita
3A Perry
3A Phillips
3A Pike
3A Poinsett
3A Polk
3A Pope
3A Prairie
3A Pulaski
3A Randolph
3A Saline
3A Scott
4A Searcy
3A Sebastian
3 A Sevier*
3A Sharp
3A St. Francis
4A Stone
3A Union*
3 A VanBuren
4A Washington
3A White
3A Woodruff
3A Yell
CALIFORNIA
3C Alameda
6B Alpine
4B Amador
3B Butte
4B Calaveras
3B Colusa
3B Contra Costa
4C Del Norte
4B El Dorado
3B Fresno
3B Glenn
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467
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
TABLE N1 1 01 .1 (R301 .1 )— continued
CLIMATE ZONES, MOISTURE REGIMES, AND WARM-HUMID
DESIGNATIONS BY STATE, COUNTY AND TERRITORY
4C Humboldt
2B Imperial
4B Inyo
3B Kern
3B Kings
4B Lake
5B Lassen
3B Los Angeles
3B Madera
3C Marin
4B Mariposa
3C Mendocino
3B Merced
5B Modoc
6B Mono
3C Monterey
3C Napa
5B Nevada
3B Orange
3B Placer
5B Plumas
3B Riverside
3B Sacramento
3C San Benito
3B San Bernardino
3B San Diego
3C San Francisco
3B San Joaquin
3C San Luis Obispo
3C San Mateo
3C Santa Barbara
3C Santa Clara
3C Santa Cruz
3B Shasta
5B Sierra
5B Siskiyou
3B Solano
3C Sonoma
3B Stanislaus
3B Sutter
3B Tehama
4B Trinity
3B Tulare
4B Tuolumne
3C Ventura
3B Yolo
3B Yuba
COLORADO
5B Adams
6B Alamosa
5B Arapahoe
6B Archuleta
4B Baca
5B Bent
5B Boulder
6B Chaffee
5B Cheyenne
7 Clear Creek
6B Conejos
6B Costilla
5B Crowley
6B Custer
5B Delta
5B Denver
6B Dolores
5B Douglas
6B Eagle
5B Elbert
5B El Paso
5B Fremont
5B Garfield
5B Gilpin
7 Grand
7 Gunnison
7 Hinsdale
5B Huerfano
7 Jackson
5B Jefferson
5B Kiowa
5B Kit Carson
7 Lake
5B La Plata
5B Larimer
4B Las Animas
5B Lincoln
5B Logan
5B Mesa
7 Mineral
6B Moffat
5B Montezuma
5B Montrose
5B Morgan
4B Otero
6B Ouray
7 Park
5B Phillips
7 Pitkin
5B Prowers
5B Pueblo
6B Rio Blanco
7 Rio Grande
7 Routt
6B Saguache
7 San Juan
6B San Miguel
5B Sedgwick
7 Summit
5B Teller
5B Washington
5B Weld
5B Yuma
CONNECTICUT
5A (all)
DELAWARE
4A (all)
DISTRICT OF
COLUMBIA
4A (all)
FLORIDA
2A Alachua*
2 A Baker*
2A Bay*
2A Bradford*
2A Brevard*
1A Broward*
2A Calhoun*
2A Charlotte*
2A Citrus*
2A Clay*
2A Collier*
2A Columbia*
2A DeSoto*
2A Dixie*
2 A Duval*
2A Escambia*
2A Flagler*
2 A Franklin*
2A Gadsden*
2A Gilchrist*
2A Glades*
2A Gulf*
2A Hamilton*
2A Hardee*
2 A Hendry*
2A Hernando*
2A Highlands*
2A Hillsborough*
2A Holmes*
2A Indian River*
2 A Jackson*
2 A Jefferson*
2 A Lafayette*
2A Lake*
2A Lee*
2 A Leon*
2A Levy*
2 A Liberty*
2A Madison*
2A Manatee*
2A Marion*
2A Martin*
1 A Miami -Dade*
1A Monroe*
2A Nassau*
2A Okaloosa*
2 A Okeechobee*
2A Orange*
2A Osceola*
2A Palm Beach*
2A Pasco*
2A Pinellas*
2A Polk*
2A Putnam*
2A Santa Rosa*
2A Sarasota*
2A Seminole*
2A St. Johns*
2A St. Lucie*
2A Sumter*
2A Suwannee*
2A Taylor*
2A Union*
2A Volusia*
2A Wakulla*
2A Walton*
2A Washington*
GEORGIA
2A Appling*
2A Atkinson*
2A Bacon*
2 A Baker*
3A Baldwin
4 A Banks
3 A Barrow
3 A Bartow
3A Ben Hill*
2 A Berrien*
3A Bibb
3A Bleckley*
2A Brantley*
2A Brooks*
2 A Bryan*
3A Bulloch*
3A Burke
3A Butts
3A Calhoun*
2A Camden*
3 A Candler*
3A Carroll
4A Catoosa
2A Charlton*
2A Chatham*
3A Chattahoochee*
4A Chattooga
3A Cherokee
3A Clarke
3A Clay*
3A Clayton
2A Clinch*
3A Cobb
3A Coffee*
2A Colquitt*
3A Columbia
2A Cook*
3A Coweta
(continued)
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TABLE N1 101.10 (R301.1)— continued
CLIMATE ZONES, MOISTURE REGiMES, AND WARM-HUMID
DESIGNATIONS BY STATE, COUNTY AND TERRITORY
3A Crawford
3A Crisp*
4A Dade
4 A Dawson
2A Decatur*
3A DeKalb
3A Dodge*
3A Dooly*
3A Dougherty*
3A Douglas
3A Early*
2A Echols*
2A Effingham*
3A Elbert
3A Emanuel*
2A Evans*
4A Fannin
3 A Fayette
4A Floyd
3A Forsyth
4A Franklin
3 A Fulton
4A Gilmer
3A Glascock
2A Glynn*
4A Gordon
2A Grady*
3A Greene
3A Gwinnett
4A Habersham
4A Hall
3A Hancock
3A Haralson
3A Harris
3A Hart
3A Heard
3A Henry
3A Houston*
3A Irwin*
3A Jackson
3A Jasper
2A Jeff Davis*
3A Jefferson
3 A Jenkins*
3A Johnson*
3A Jones
3 A Lamar
2A Lanier*
3A Laurens*
3A Lee*
2 A Liberty*
3 A Lincoln
2A Long*
2A Lowndes*
4A Lumpkin
3 A Macon*
3 A Madison
3A Marion*
3A McDuffie
2A Mcintosh*
3A Meriwether
2A Miller*
2A Mitchell*
3A Monroe
3A Montgomery*
3A Morgan
4A Murray
3A Muscogee
3A Newton
3A Oconee
3A Oglethorpe
3A Paulding
3A Peach*
4A Pickens
2A Pierce*
3A Pike
3A Polk
3A Pulaski*
3 A Putnam
3A Quitman*
4A Rabun
3A Randolph*
3 A Richmond
3A Rockdale
3A Schley*
3 A Screven*
2A Seminole*
3A Spalding
4A Stephens
3A Stewart*
3A Sumter*
3A Talbot
3A Taliaferro
2A Tattnall*
3A Taylor*
3A Telfair*
3 A Terrell*
2A Thomas*
3A Tift*
2A Toombs*
4A Towns
3A Treutlen*
3 A Troup
3A Turner*
3 A Twiggs*
4A Union
3 A Upson
4A Walker
3A Walton
2A Ware*
3A Warren
3 A Washington
2A Wayne*
3 A Webster*
3A Wheeler*
4A White
4A Whitfield
3A Wilcox*
3 A Wilkes
3A Wilkinson
3A Worth*
HAWAII
1A (all)*
IDAHO
5B Ada
6B Adams
6B Bannock
6B Bear Lake
5B Benewah
6B Bingham
6B Blaine
6B Boise
6B Bonner
6B Bonneville
6B Boundary
6B Butte
6B Camas
5B Canyon
6B Caribou
(continued)
5B Cassia
6B Clark
5B Clearwater
6B Custer
5B Elmore
6B Franklin
6B Fremont
5B Gem
5B Gooding
5B Idaho
6B Jefferson
5B Jerome
5B Kootenai
5B Latah
6B Lemhi
5B Lewis
5B Lincoln
6B Madison
5B Minidoka
5B Nez Perce
6B Oneida
5B Owyhee
5B Payette
5B Power
5B Shoshone
6B Teton
5B Twin Falls
6B Valley
5B Washington
ILLINOIS
5 A Adams
4A Alexander
4A Bond
5A Boone
5 A Brown
5 A Bureau
5A Calhoun
5A Carroll
5A Cass
5 A Champaign
4A Christian
5A Clark
4A Clay
4A Clinton
5A Coles
5A Cook
4A Crawford
5A Cumberland
5A DeKalb
5A De Witt
5A Douglas
5A DuPage
5 A Edgar
4A Edwards
4A Effingham
4A Fayette
5A Ford
4 A Franklin
5A Fulton
4A Gallatin
5A Greene
5A Grundy
4A Hamilton
5A Hancock
4A Hardin
5A Henderson
5A Henry
5A Iroquois
4A Jackson
4 A Jasper
4A Jefferson
5A Jersey
5A Jo Daviess
4A Johnson
5A Kane
5 A Kankakee
5A Kendall
5A Knox
5A Lake
5A La Salle
4A Lawrence
5A Lee
5A Livingston
5A Logan
5A Macon
4A Macoupin
4A Madison
4A Marion
5A Marshall
5A Mason
4A Massac
5A McDonough
5 A McHenry
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ENERGY EFFICIENCY
TABLE N1101.10(R301.1V— continued
CLIMATE ZONES, MOISTURE REGIMES, AND WARM-HUMID
DESIGNATIONS BY STATE, COUNTY AND TERRITORY
5A McLean
5A Menard
5A Mercer
4A Monroe
4A Montgomery
5A Morgan
5A Moultrie
5A Ogle
5A Peoria
4A Perry
5 A Piatt
5A Pike
4A Pope
4A Pulaski
5A Putnam
4A Randolph
4A Richland
5A Rock Island
4A Saline
5A Sangamon
5A Schuyler
5A Scott
4A Shelby
5A Stark
4A St. Clair
5A Stephenson
5A Tazewell
4A Union
5 A Vermilion
4A Wabash
5 A Warren
4A Washington
4A Wayne
4A White
5A Whiteside
5A Will
4A Williamson
5A Winnebago
5A Woodford
INDIANA
5A Adams
5A Allen
5A Bartholomew
5A Benton
5A Blackford
5A Boone
4A Brown
5A Carroll
5A Cass
4A Clark
5A Clay
5 A Clinton
4A Crawford
4A Daviess
4A Dearborn
5 A Decatur
5A De Kalb
5A Delaware
4A Dubois
5A Elkhart
5A Fayette
4A Floyd
5A Fountain
5A Franklin
5 A Fulton
4A Gibson
5A Grant
4A Greene
5A Hamilton
5A Hancock
4A Harrison
5A Hendricks
5 A Henry
5A Howard
5A Huntington
4A Jackson
5A Jasper
5A Jay
4A Jefferson
4A Jennings
5A Johnson
4A Knox
5A Kosciusko
5A Lagrange
5A Lake
5A La Porte
4A Lawrence
5A Madison
5A Marion
5 A Marshall
4A Martin
5A Miami
4A Monroe
5A Montgomery
5A Morgan
5A Newton
5A Noble
4A Ohio
4A Orange
5A Owen
5A Parke
4A Perry
4A Pike
5A Porter
4A Posey
5A Pulaski
5A Putnam
5A Randolph
4A Ripley
5A Rush
4A Scott
5A Shelby
4A Spencer
5A Starke
5A Steuben
5A St. Joseph
4A Sullivan
4A Switzerland
5A Tippecanoe
5A Tipton
5A Union
4A Vanderburgh
5A Vermillion
5A Vigo
5A Wabash
5 A Warren
4A Warrick
4A Washington
5A Wayne
5A Wells
5A White
5A Whitley
IOWA
5A Adair
5 A Adams
6A Allamakee
5A Appanoose
5A Audubon
5A Benton
6A Black Hawk
5A Boone
6A Bremer
6A Buchanan
6A Buena Vista
6A Butler
6A Calhoun
5A Carroll
5A Cass
5A Cedar
6A Cerro Gordo
6A Cherokee
6A Chickasaw
5A Clarke
6A Clay
6A Clayton
5A Clinton
5A Crawford
5A Dallas
5A Davis
5A Decatur
6A Delaware
5A Des Moines
6A Dickinson
5A Dubuque
6A Emmet
6A Fayette
6A Floyd
6A Franklin
5A Fremont
5A Greene
6A Grundy
5A Guthrie
6A Hamilton
6A Hancock
6 A Hardin
5A Harrison
5A Henry
6A Howard
6A Humboldt
6A Ida
5A Iowa
5A Jackson
5A Jasper
5 A Jefferson
5A Johnson
5 A Jones
5A Keokuk
6A Kossuth
5 A Lee
5A Linn
5A Louisa
5A Lucas
6A Lyon
5A Madison
5A Mahaska
5A Marion
5A Marshall
5A Mills
6A Mitchell
5A Monona
5 A Monroe
5 A Montgomery
5A Muscatine
6A O'Brien
6A Osceola
5A Page
6A Palo Alto
6A Plymouth
6A Pocahontas
5A Polk
5A Pottawattamie
5 A Poweshiek
5A Ringgold
6A Sac
5A Scott
5A Shelby
6 A Sioux
5A Story
5 A Tama
5A Taylor
5 A Union
5 A Van Buren
5A Wapello
5 A Warren
5A Washington
5A Wayne
6A Webster
6A Winnebago
(continued)
470
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
TABLE N1101. 10 (R301.1)— continued
CLIMATE ZONES, MOISTURE REGIMES, AND WARM-HUMID
DESIGNATIONS BY STATE, COUNTY AND TERRITORY
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
6A Winneshiek
5A Woodbury
6A Worth
6A Wright
KANSAS
4A Allen
4A Anderson
4A Atchison
4 A Barber
4 A Barton
4 A Bourbon
4 A Brown
4A Butler
4A Chase
4A Chautauqua
4A Cherokee
5A Cheyenne
4A Clark
4A Clay
5A Cloud
4A Coffey
4A Comanche
4A Cowley
4A Crawford
5A Decatur
4A Dickinson
4A Doniphan
4A Douglas
4A Edwards
4A Elk
5A Ellis
4A Ellsworth
4 A Finney
4A Ford
4A Franklin
4A Geary
5A Gove
5A Graham
4A Grant
4A Gray
5A Greeley
4A Greenwood
5A Hamilton
4A Harper
4A Harvey
4A Haskell
4A Hodgeman
4A Jackson
4 A Jefferson
5A Jewell
4A Johnson
4A Kearny
4A Kingman
4A Kiowa
4A Labette
5 A Lane
4A Leavenworth
4A Lincoln
4A Linn
5A Logan
4A Lyon
4A Marion
4A Marshall
4A McPherson
4A Meade
4A Miami
5A Mitchell
4A Montgomery
4A Morris
4A Morton
4A Nemaha
4A Neosho
5A Ness
5 A Norton
4A Osage
5A Osborne
4A Ottawa
4A Pawnee
5A Phillips
4A Pottawatomie
4A Pratt
5A Rawlins
4A Reno
5 A Republic
4A Rice
4A Riley
5 A Rooks
4A Rush
4A Russell
4A Saline
5 A Scott
4A Sedgwick
4A Seward
4A Shawnee
5A Sheridan
5A Sherman
5A Smith
4A Stafford
4A Stanton
4A Stevens
4A Sumner
5 A Thomas
5A Trego
4A Wabaunsee
5A Wallace
4A Washington
5A Wichita
4A Wilson
4A Woodson
4A Wyandotte
KENTUCKY
4A (all)
LOUISIANA
2A Acadia*
2A Allen*
2 A Ascension*
2A Assumption*
2 A Avoyelles*
2A Beauregard*
3A Bienville*
3A Bossier*
3A Caddo*
2A Calcasieu*
3A Caldwell*
2A Cameron*
3A Catahoula*
3A Claiborne*
3A Concordia*
3A De Soto*
2A East Baton
Rouge*
3 A East Carroll
2A East Feliciana*
2A Evangeline*
3A Franklin*
3A Grant*
2A Iberia*
(continued)
2A Iberville*
3A Jackson*
2A Jefferson*
2A Jefferson Davis*
2 A Lafayette*
2A Lafourche*
3A La Salle*
3A Lincoln*
2A Livingston*
3A Madison*
3A Morehouse
3A Natchitoches*
2A Orleans*
3A Ouachita*
2 A Plaquemines*
2A Pointe Coupee*
2A Rapides*
3 A Red River*
3A Richland*
3A Sabine*
2A St. Bernard*
2A St. Charles*
2A St. Helena*
2A St. James*
2A St. John the
Baptist*
2 A St. Landry*
2A St. Martin*
2 A St. Mary*
2 A St. Tammany*
2A Tangipahoa*
3A Tensas*
2A Terrebonne*
3A Union*
2 A Vermilion*
3A Vernon*
2A Washington*
3A Webster*
2A West Baton
Rouge*
3A West Carroll
2A West Feliciana*
3A Winn*
MAINE
6A Androscoggin
7 Aroostook
6A Cumberland
6A Franklin
6A Hancock
6A Kennebec
6A Knox
6A Lincoln
6A Oxford
6A Penobscot
6A Piscataquis
6 A Sagadahoc
6A Somerset
6A Waldo
6A Washington
6A York
MARYLAND
4A Allegany
4A Anne Arundel
4 A Baltimore
4 A Baltimore (city)
4A Calvert
4A Caroline
4A Carroll
4A Cecil
4A Charles
4A Dorchester
4A Frederick
5 A Garrett
4A Harford
4A Howard
4A Kent
4A Montgomery
4A Prince George's
4A Queen Anne's
4A Somerset
4A St. Mary's
4A Talbot
4 A Washington
4A Wicomico
4A Worcester
MASSACHSETTS
5A (all)
MICHIGAN
6A Alcona
6A Alger
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 53
471
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
TABLE N1 1 01. 10(R301.1)— continued
CLIMATE ZONES, MOISTURE REGIMES, AND WARM-HUMID
DESIGNATIONS BY STATE, COUNTY AND TERRITORY
5A Allegan
6A Alpena
6A Antrim
6A Arenac
7 Baraga
5 A Barry
5A Bay
6A Benzie
5A Berrien
5A Branch
5A Calhoun
5A Cass
6A Charlevoix
6A Cheboygan
7 Chippewa
6A Clare
5A Clinton
6A Crawford
6A Delta
6A Dickinson
5A Eaton
6 A Emmet
5A Genesee
6A Gladwin
7 Gogebic
6A Grand Traverse
5A Gratiot
5A Hillsdale
7 Houghton
6A Huron
5A Ingham
5A Ionia
6A Iosco
7 Iron
6A Isabella
5A Jackson
5A Kalamazoo
6A Kalkaska
5A Kent
7 Keweenaw
6A Lake
5A Lapeer
6A Leelanau
5A Lenawee
5A Livingston
7 Luce
7 Mackinac
5A Macomb
6A Manistee
6A Marquette
6A Mason
6A Mecosta
6A Menominee
5A Midland
6 A Missaukee
5A Monroe
5A Montcalm
6A Montmorency
5A Muskegon
6A Newaygo
5A Oakland
6A Oceana
6A Ogemaw
7 Ontonagon
6A Osceola
6A Oscoda
6A Otsego
5 A Ottawa
6A Presque Isle
6A Roscommon
5 A Saginaw
6 A Sanilac
7 Schoolcraft
5A Shiawassee
5A St. Clair
5 A St. Joseph
5A Tuscola
5A Van Buren
5A Washtenaw
5 A Wayne
6A Wexford
MINNESOTA
7 Aitkin
6A Anoka
7 Becker
7 Beltrami
6A Benton
6 A Big Stone
6A Blue Earth
6 A Brown
7 Carlton
6A Carver
7 Cass
6A Chippewa
6A Chisago
7 Clay
7 Clearwater
7 Cook
6A Cottonwood
7 Crow Wing
6A Dakota
6A Dodge
6A Douglas
6A Faribault
6A Fillmore
6A Freeborn
6A Goodhue
7 Grant
6A Hennepin
6 A Houston
7 Hubbard
6A Isanti
7 Itasca
6A Jackson
7 Kanabec
6A Kandiyohi
7 Kittson
7 Koochiching
6 A Lac qui Parle
7 Lake
7 Lake of the Woods
6 A Le Sueur
6A Lincoln
6A Lyon
7 Mahnomen
7 Marshall
6A Martin
6A McLeod
6A Meeker
7 Mille Lacs
6A Morrison
6A Mower
6A Murray
6A Nicollet
6A Nobles
7 Norman
6A Olmsted
7 Otter Tail
7 Pennington
7 Pine
6A Pipestone
7 Polk
6A Pope
6A Ramsey
7 Red Lake
6A Redwood
6A Renville
6A Rice
6A Rock
7 Roseau
6A Scott
6A Sherburne
6A Sibley
6 A Stearns
6A Steele
6A Stevens
7 St. Louis
6A Swift
6A Todd
6A Traverse
6A Wabasha
7 Wadena
6A Waseca
6A Washington
6A Watonwan
7 Wilkin
6A Winona
6A Wright
6A Yellow Medicine
MISSISSIPPI
3 A Adams*
3A Alcorn
3A Amite*
3 A Attala
3A Benton
3 A Bolivar
3A Calhoun
3A Carroll
3A Chickasaw
3A Choctaw
3A Claiborne*
3A Clarke
3A Clay
3A Coahoma
3A Copiah*
3A Covington*
3A DeSoto
3A Forrest*
3A Franklin*
3A George*
3A Greene*
3A Grenada
2A Hancock*
2A Harrison*
3A Hinds*
3A Holmes
3A Humphreys
3A Issaquena
3A Itawamba
2A Jackson*
3A Jasper
3 A Jefferson*
3A Jefferson Davis*
3A Jones*
3A Kemper
3 A Lafayette
3A Lamar*
3A Lauderdale
3A Lawrence*
3A Leake
3A Lee
3A Leflore
3A Lincoln*
3A Lowndes
3A Madison
3A Marion*
3A Marshall
3A Monroe
3A Montgomery
3A Neshoba
3A Newton
3A Noxubee
3A Oktibbeha
3A Panola
2A Pearl River*
3A Perry*
3A Pike*
(continued)
472
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
TABLE N1101.10(R301.1)— continued
CLIMATE ZONES, MOISTURE REGIMES, AND WARM-HUMID
DESIGNATIONS BY STATE, COUNTY AND TERRITORY
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
3 A Pontotoc
3 A Prentiss
3 A Quitman
3A Rankin*
3A Scott
3A Sharkey
3 A Simpson*
3A Smith*
2A Stone*
3A Sunflower
3A Tallahatchie
3A Tate
3A Tippah
3A Tishomingo
3A Tunica
3A Union
3A Walthall*
3A Warren*
3A Washington
3 A Wayne*
3A Webster
3A Wilkinson*
3 A Winston
3 A Yalobusha
3A Yazoo
MISSOURI
5A Adair
5A Andrew
5A Atchison
4 A Audrain
4 A Barry
4 A Barton
4 A Bates
4 A Benton
4 A Bollinger
4A Boone
5A Buchanan
4A Butler
5A Caldwell
4A Callaway
4A Camden
4A Cape Girardeau
4A Carroll
4A Carter
4A Cass
4A Cedar
5A Chariton
4A Christian
5A Clark
4A Clay
5A Clinton
4A Cole
4A Cooper
4A Crawford
4A Dade
4A Dallas
5A Daviess
5A DeKalb
4A Dent
4A Douglas
4A Dunklin
4A Franklin
4A Gasconade
5 A Gentry
4A Greene
5A Grundy
5A Harrison
4A Henry
4A Hickory
5A Holt
4A Howard
4A Howell
4A Iron
4A Jackson
4A Jasper
4A Jefferson
4A Johnson
5A Knox
4A Laclede
4A Lafayette
4A Lawrence
5A Lewis
4A Lincoln
5 A Linn
5A Livingston
5A Macon
4A Madison
4A Maries
5A Marion
4A McDonald
5A Mercer
4A Miller
4A Mississippi
4A Moniteau
4A Monroe
4A Montgomery
4A Morgan
4A New Madrid
4A Newton
5A Nodaway
4A Oregon
4A Osage
4A Ozark
4A Pemiscot
4A Perry
4A Pettis
4A Phelps
5A Pike
4A Platte
4A Polk
4A Pulaski
5A Putnam
5A Ralls
4A Randolph
4A Ray
4A Reynolds
4A Ripley
4A Saline
5A Schuyler
5A Scotland
4A Scott
4A Shannon
5A Shelby
4A St. Charles
4A St. Clair
4A Ste. Genevieve
4A St. Francois
4A St. Louis
4A St. Louis (city)
4A Stoddard
4A Stone
5A Sullivan
4A Taney
4 A Texas
4A Vernon
4A Warren
4A Washington
4A Wayne
(continued)
4A Webster
5A Worth
4A Wright
MONTANA
6B (all)
NEBRASKA
5A (all)
NEVADA
5B Carson City (city)
5B Churchill
3B Clark
5B Douglas
5B Elko
5B Esmeralda
5B Eureka
5B Humboldt
5B Lander
5B Lincoln
5B Lyon
5B Mineral
5B Nye
5B Pershing
5B Storey
5B Washoe
5B White Pine
NEW
HAMPSHIRE
6A Belknap
6A Carroll
5A Cheshire
6A Coos
6A Grafton
5A Hillsborough
6A Merrimack
5 A Rockingham
5 A Strafford
6A Sullivan
NEW JERSEY
4A Atlantic
5 A Bergen
4 A Burlington
4A Camden
4A Cape May
4A Cumberland
4A Essex
4A Gloucester
4A Hudson
5A Hunterdon
5A Mercer
4A Middlesex
4A Monmouth
5A Morris
4A Ocean
5 A Passaic
4A Salem
5A Somerset
5 A Sussex
4A Union
5 A Warren
NEW MEXICO
4B Bernalillo
5B Catron
3B Chaves
4B Cibola
5B Colfax
4B Curry
4B DeBaca
3B Dona Ana
3B Eddy
4B Grant
4B Guadalupe
5B Harding
3B Hidalgo
3B Lea
4B Lincoln
5B Los Alamos
3B Luna
5B McKinley
5B Mora
3B Otero
4B Quay
5B Rio Arriba
4B Roosevelt
5B Sandoval
5B San Juan
5B San Miguel
5B Santa Fe
4B Sierra
4B Socorro
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
473
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
TABLE N1101.10 (R301.1)— continued
CLIMATE ZONES, MOISTURE REGIMES, AND WARM-HUMID
DESIGNATIONS BY STATE, COUNTY AND TERRITORY
5B Taos
5B Torrance
4B Union
4B Valencia
NEW YORK
5 A Albany
6A Allegany
4A Bronx
6A Broome
6A Cattaraugus
5A Cayuga
5 A Chautauqua
5A Chemung
6A Chenango
6 A Clinton
5A Columbia
5A Cortland
6A Delaware
5A Dutchess
5A Erie
6A Essex
6A Franklin
6A Fulton
5A Genesee
5 A Greene
6 A Hamilton
6 A Herkimer
6A Jefferson
4A Kings
6A Lewis
5A Livingston
6A Madison
5A Monroe
6A Montgomery
4A Nassau
4A New York
5A Niagara
6A Oneida
5A Onondaga
5A Ontario
5A Orange
5A Orleans
5A Oswego
6A Otsego
5 A Putnam
4A Queens
5A Rensselaer
4A Richmond
5A Rockland
5A Saratoga
5A Schenectady
6A Schoharie
6A Schuyler
5A Seneca
6A Steuben
6A St. Lawrence
4A Suffolk
6 A Sullivan
5 A Tioga
6A Tompkins
6A Ulster
6A Warren
5A Washington
5 A Wayne
4A Westchester
6 A Wyoming
5A Yates
NORTH
CAROLINA
4A Alamance
4A Alexander
5 A Alleghany
3A Anson
5A Ashe
5A Avery
3 A Beaufort
4A Bertie
3 A Bladen
3A Brunswick*
4A Buncombe
4 A Burke
3A Cabarrus
4A Caldwell
3 A Camden
3A Carteret*
4A Caswell
4A Catawba
4A Chatham
4A Cherokee
3A Chowan
4A Clay
4A Orange
7 Divide
4A Cleveland
3A Pamlico
6A Dunn
3A Columbus*
3A Pasquotank
7 Eddy
3A Craven
3A Pender*
6A Emmons
3A Cumberland
3A Perquimans
7 Foster
3A Currituck
4A Person
6A Golden Valley
3A Dare
3A Pitt
7 Grand Forks
3A Davidson
4A Polk
6A Grant
4A Davie
3 A Randolph
7 Griggs
3A Duplin
3A Richmond
6A Hettinger
4A Durham
3A Robeson
7 Kidder
3A Edgecombe
4A Rockingham
6A LaMoure
4A Forsyth
3A Rowan
6A Logan
4 A Franklin
4A Rutherford
7 McHenry
3 A Gaston
3A Sampson
6A Mcintosh
4A Gates
3A Scotland
6A McKenzie
4A Graham
3A Stanly
7 McLean
4A Granville
4A Stokes
6A Mercer
3A Greene
4A Surry
6A Morton
4A Guilford
4A Swain
7 Mountrail
4A Halifax
4 A Transylvania
7 Nelson
4A Harnett
3A Tyrrell
6A Oliver
4A Haywood
3A Union
7 Pembina
4A Henderson
4A Vance
7 Pierce
4A Hertford
4A Wake
7 Ramsey
3A Hoke
4A Warren
6A Ransom
3A Hyde
3A Washington
7 Renville
4A Iredell
5A Watauga
6A Richland
4A Jackson
3 A Wayne
7 Rolette
3A Johnston
4A Wilkes
6A Sargent
3A Jones
3A Wilson
7 Sheridan
4A Lee
4A Yadkin
6 A Sioux
3A Lenoir
5A Yancey
6A Slope
4A Lincoln
4A Macon
4A Madison
NORTH DAKOTA
6A Adams
6A Stark
7 Steele
7 Stutsman
3A Martin
4A McDowell
3A Mecklenburg
5A Mitchell
3A Montgomery
3A Moore
4A Nash
3A New Hanover*
4A Northampton
3A Onslow*
7 Barnes
7 Benson
6A Billings
7 Bottineau
6 A Bowman
7 Burke
6A Burleigh
7 Cass
7 Cavalier
6A Dickey
7 Towner
7 Traill
7 Walsh
7 Ward
7 Wells
7 Williams
OHIO
4A Adams
5A Allen
(continued)
474
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
TABLE N1 101 .1 (R301 .1)— continued
CLIMATE ZONES, MOISTURE REGIMES, AND WARM-HUMID
DESIGNATIONS BY STATE, COUNTY AND TERRITORY
5A Ashland
5A Ashtabula
5A Athens
5A Auglaize
5A Belmont
4A Brown
5A Butler
5A Carroll
5A Champaign
5A Clark
4A Clermont
5A Clinton
5 A Columbiana
5A Coshocton
5 A Crawford
5A Cuyahoga
5A Darke
5A Defiance
5A Delaware
5A Erie
5A Fairfield
5 A Fayette
5 A Franklin
5A Fulton
4A Gallia
5A Geauga
5A Greene
5A Guernsey
4A Hamilton
5A Hancock
5A Hardin
5A Harrison
5A Henry
5A Highland
5A Hocking
5A Holmes
5A Huron
5A Jackson
5A Jefferson
5A Knox
5A Lake
4A Lawrence
5A Licking
5 A Logan
5 A Lorain
5A Lucas
5A Madison
5A Mahoning
5A Marion
5 A Medina
5A Meigs
5 A Mercer
5A Miami
5 A Monroe
5 A Montgomery
5A Morgan
5A Morrow
5A Muskingum
5A Noble
5A Ottawa
5A Paulding
5A Perry
5A Pickaway
4A Pike
5 A Portage
5A Preble
5A Putnam
5A Richland
5A Ross
5A Sandusky
4A Scioto
5A Seneca
5A Shelby
5A Stark
5A Summit
5A Trumbull
5A Tuscarawas
5A Union
5A Van Wert
5A Vinton
5A Warren
4A Washington
5A Wayne
5A Williams
5A Wood
5A Wyandot
OKLAHOMA
3 A Adair
3A Alfalfa
3A Atoka
4B Beaver
3A Beckham
3A Blaine
3A Bryan
3A Caddo
3A Canadian
3A Carter
3 A Cherokee
3 A Choctaw
4B Cimarron
3 A Cleveland
3A Coal
3A Comanche
3A Cotton
3A Craig
3A Creek
3A Custer
3A Delaware
3 A Dewey
3A Ellis
3A Garfield
3A Garvin
3A Grady
3 A Grant
3 A Greer
3 A Harmon
3 A Harper
3A Haskell
3 A Hughes
3A Jackson
3A Jefferson
3A Johnston
3A Kay
3A Kingfisher
3A Kiowa
3A Latimer
3A Le Flore
3A Lincoln
3A Logan
3A Love
3A Major
3A Marshall
3A Mayes
3A McClain
3A McCurtain
3A Mcintosh
3 A Murray
3 A Muskogee
3A Noble
3 A Nowata
3A Okfuskee
3A Oklahoma
3A Okmulgee
3 A Osage
3 A Ottawa
3 A Pawnee
3A Payne
3A Pittsburg
3A Pontotoc
3A Pottawatomie
3A Pushmataha
3A Roger Mills
3 A Rogers
3A Seminole
3A Sequoyah
3 A Stephens
4B Texas
3 A Tillman
3A Tulsa
3 A Wagoner
3 A Washington
3 A Washita
3 A Woods
3A Woodward
OREGON
5B Baker
4C Benton
4C Clackamas
4C Clatsop
4C Columbia
4C Coos
5B Crook
4C Curry
5B Deschutes
4C Douglas
5B Gilliam
5B Grant
5B Harney
5B Hood River
4C Jackson
5B Jefferson
4C Josephine
5B Klamath
5B Lake
4C Lane
4C Lincoln
4C Linn
5B Malheur
4C Marion
5B Morrow
4C Multnomah
4C Polk
5B Sherman
4C Tillamook
5B Umatilla
5B Union
5B Wallowa
5B Wasco
4C Washington
5B Wheeler
4C Yamhill
PENNSYLVANIA
5A Adams
5A Allegheny
5A Armstrong
5A Beaver
5A Bedford
5A Berks
5A Blair
5A Bradford
4A Bucks
5A Butler
5A Cambria
6A Cameron
5A Carbon
5A Centre
4A Chester
5 A Clarion
6A Clearfield
5A Clinton
5A Columbia
5A Crawford
5A Cumberland
5A Dauphin
4A Delaware
6A Elk
5A Erie
5A Fayette
5A Forest
5A Franklin
5 A Fulton
5A Greene
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
475
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
TABLE N1101.10 (R301.1)— continued
CLIMATE ZONES, MOISTURE REGIMES, AND WARM-HUMID
DESIGNATIONS BY STATE, COUNTY AND TERRITORY
5A Huntingdon
5A Indiana
5A Jefferson
5A Juniata
5A Lackawanna
5A Lancaster
5A Lawrence
5A Lebanon
5A Lehigh
5A Luzerne
5A Lycoming
6A McKean
5A Mercer
5A Mifflin
5 A Monroe
4A Montgomery
5A Montour
5A Northampton
5A Northumberland
5 A Perry
4A Philadelphia
5A Pike
6A Potter
5A Schuylkill
5A Snyder
5A Somerset
5A Sullivan
6A Susquehanna
6A Tioga
5A Union
5A Venango
5A Warren
5A Washington
6 A Wayne
5A Westmoreland
5A Wyoming
4A York
RHODE ISLAND
5A (all)
SOUTH
CAROLINA
3A Abbeville
3A Aiken
3A Allendale*
3A Anderson
3A Bamberg*
3A Barnwell*
3A Beaufort*
3A Berkeley*
3A Calhoun
3A Charleston*
3 A Cherokee
3A Chester
3A Chesterfield
3A Clarendon
3A Colleton*
3A Darlington
3A Dillon
3A Dorchester*
3A Edgefield
3A Fairfield
3A Florence
3 A Georgetown*
3A Greenville
3 A Greenwood
3A Hampton*
3 A Horry*
3A Jasper*
3 A Kershaw
3A Lancaster
3 A Laurens
3A Lee
3A Lexington
3A Marion
3A Marlboro
3A McCormick
3A Newberry
3A Oconee
3A Orangeburg
3 A Pickens
3A Richland
3A Saluda
3A Spartanburg
3A Sumter
3A Union
3A Williamsburg
3A York
SOUTH DAKOTA
6A Aurora
6A Beadle
5A Bennett
5A Bon Homme
6A Brookings
6A Brown
6A Brule
6A Buffalo
6 A Butte
6A Campbell
5A Charles Mix
6A Clark
5A Clay
6A Codington
6A Corson
6A Custer
6A Davison
6ADay
6A Deuel
6A Dewey
5A Douglas
6A Edmunds
6A Fall River
6A Faulk
6A Grant
5 A Gregory
6A Haakon
6A Hamlin
6A Hand
6A Hanson
6A Harding
6A Hughes
5A Hutchinson
6A Hyde
5A Jackson
6A Jerauld
6 A Jones
6A Kingsbury
6A Lake
6A Lawrence
6A Lincoln
6A Lyman
6A Marshall
6A McCook
6A McPherson
6A Meade
5A Mellette
6A Miner
6A Minnehaha
6A Moody
6A Pennington
6A Perkins
6A Potter
6A Roberts
6 A Sanborn
6A Shannon
6A Spink
6 A Stanley
6A Sully
5A Todd
5A Tripp
6A Turner
5A Union
6A Walworth
5A Yankton
6A Ziebach
TENNESSEE
4A Anderson
4A Bedford
4 A Benton
4A Bledsoe
4A Blount
4A Bradley
4A Campbell
4A Cannon
4A Carroll
4A Carter
4A Cheatham
3A Chester
4A Claiborne
4A Clay
4A Cocke
4A Coffee
3A Crockett
4A Cumberland
4A Davidson
4A Decatur
4A DeKalb
4A Dickson
3A Dyer
3A Fayette
4A Fentress
4A Franklin
4A Gibson
4A Giles
4A Grainger
4A Greene
4 A Grundy
4A Hamblen
4A Hamilton
4A Hancock
3A Hardeman
3A Hardin
4A Hawkins
3A Haywood
3A Henderson
4A Henry
4A Hickman
4A Houston
4A Humphreys
4A Jackson
4A Jefferson
4A Johnson
4A Knox
3A Lake
3A Lauderdale
4A Lawrence
4A Lewis
4A Lincoln
4A Loudon
4A Macon
3A Madison
4A Marion
4 A Marshall
4A Maury
4A McMinn
3A McNairy
4A Meigs
4A Monroe
4A Montgomery
4A Moore
4A Morgan
4 A Obion
4A Overton
4A Perry
4A Pickett
4A Polk
4A Putnam
4A Rhea
(continued)
476
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
TABLE N1 1 01 .1 (R301 .1 )— continued
CLIMATE ZONES, MOISTURE REGIMES, AND WARM-HUMID
DESIGNATIONS BY STATE, COUNTY AND TERRITORY
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
4A Roane
4A Robertson
4A Rutherford
4A Scott
4A Sequatchie
4 A Sevier
3A Shelby
4A Smith
4A Stewart
4A Sullivan
4A Sumner
3A Tipton
4A Trousdale
4A Unicoi
4A Union
4 A Van Buren
4A Warren
4A Washington
4A Wayne
4A Weakley
4A White
4A Williamson
4A Wilson
TEXAS
2A Anderson*
3B Andrews
2A Angelina*
2 A Aransas*
3A Archer
4B Armstrong
2A Atascosa*
2A Austin*
4B Bailey
2B Bandera*
2A Bastrop*
3B Baylor
2A Bee*
2A Bell*
2A Bexar*
3A Blanco*
3B Borden
2A Bosque*
3A Bowie*
2A Brazoria*
2A Brazos*
3B Brewster
4B Briscoe
2A Brooks*
3A Brown*
2A Burleson*
3A Burnet*
2A Caldwell*
2A Calhoun*
3B Callahan
2A Cameron*
3A Camp*
4B Carson
3A Cass*
4B Castro
2 A Chambers*
2A Cherokee*
3B Childress
3A Clay
4B Cochran
3B Coke
3B Coleman
3A Collin*
3B Collingsworth
2 A Colorado*
2A Comal*
3 A Comanche*
3B Concho
3 A Cooke
2A Coryell*
3B Cottle
3B Crane
3B Crockett
3B Crosby
3B Culberson
4B Dallam
3A Dallas*
3B Dawson
4B Deaf Smith
3A Delta
3A Denton*
2A DeWitt*
3B Dickens
2B Dimmit*
4B Donley
2A Duval*
3A Eastland
3B Ector
2B Edwards*
3A Ellis*
3B El Paso
3A Erath*
2A Falls*
3A Fannin
2A Fayette*
3B Fisher
4B Floyd
3B Foard
2A Fort Bend*
3 A Franklin*
2A Freestone*
2B Frio*
3B Gaines
2 A Galveston*
3B Garza
3A Gillespie*
3B Glasscock
2A Goliad*
2A Gonzales*
4B Gray
3A Grayson
3 A Gregg*
2A Grimes*
2A Guadalupe*
4B Hale
3B Hall
3A Hamilton*
4B Hansford
3B Hardeman
2A Hardin*
2A Harris*
3A Harrison*
4B Hartley
3B Haskell
2A Hays*
3B Hemphill
3A Henderson*
2A Hidalgo*
2A Hill*
4B Hockley
3A Hood*
3A Hopkins*
2A Houston*
3B Howard
3B Hudspeth
3A Hunt*
4B Hutchinson
3B Irion
3A Jack
2A Jackson*
2A Jasper*
3B Jeff Davis
2 A Jefferson*
2 A Jim Hogg*
2A Jim Wells*
3 A Johnson*
3B Jones
2 A Karnes*
3 A Kaufman*
3A Kendall*
2 A Kenedy*
3B Kent
3B Kerr
3B Kimble
3B King
2B Kinney*
2A Kleberg*
3B Knox
3A Lamar*
4B Lamb
3A Lampasas*
2B La Salle*
2A Lavaca*
2 A Lee*
2A Leon*
2A Liberty*
2A Limestone*
4B Lipscomb
2A Live Oak*
3A Llano*
3B Loving
3B Lubbock
3B Lynn
2A Madison*
3A Marion*
3B Martin
3B Mason
2A Matagorda*
2B Maverick*
3B McCulloch
2 A McLennan*
2A McMullen*
2B Medina*
3B Menard
3B Midland
2A Milam*
3A Mills*
3B Mitchell
3A Montague
2A Montgomery*
4B Moore
3 A Morris*
3B Motley
3A Nacogdoches*
3A Navarro*
2A Newton*
3B Nolan
2 A Nueces*
4B Ochiltree
4B Oldham
2A Orange*
3A Palo Pinto*
3A Panola*
3A Parker*
4B Parmer
3B Pecos
2A Polk*
4B Potter
3B Presidio
3A Rains*
4B Randall
3B Reagan
2B Real*
3A Red River*
3B Reeves
2A Refugio*
4B Roberts
2A Robertson*
3A Rockwall*
3B Runnels
3A Rusk*
3A Sabine*
3A San Augustine*
2A San Jacinto*
2A San Patricio*
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
477
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
TABLE N1101.10(R301.1)— continued
CLIMATE ZONES, MOISTURE REGIMES, AND WARM-HUMID
DESIGNATIONS BY STATE, COUNTY AND TERRITORY
3A San Saba*
3B Schleicher
3B Scurry
3B Shackelford
3A Shelby*
4B Sherman
3A Smith*
3A Somervell*
2A Starr*
3A Stephens
3B Sterling
3B Stonewall
3B Sutton
4B Swisher
3 A Tarrant*
3B Taylor
3B Terrell
3B Terry
3B Throckmorton
3A Titus*
3B Tom Green
2A Travis*
2A Trinity*
2A Tyler*
3A Upshur*
3B Upton
2B Uvalde*
2B Val Verde*
3A Van Zandt*
2A Victoria*
2A Walker*
2A Waller*
3B Ward
2A Washington*
2B Webb*
2A Wharton*
3B Wheeler
3A Wichita
3B Wilbarger
2A Willacy*
2A Williamson*
2A Wilson*
3B Winkler
3A Wise
3A Wood*
4B Yoakum
3A Young
2B Zapata*
2B Zavala*
UTAH
5B Beaver
6B Box Elder
6B Cache
6B Carbon
6B Daggett
5B Davis
6B Duchesne
5B Emery
5B Garfield
5B Grand
5B Iron
5B Juab
5B Kane
5B Millard
6B Morgan
5B Piute
6B Rich
5B Salt Lake
5B San Juan
5B Sanpete
5B Sevier
6B Summit
5B Tooele
6B Uintah
5B Utah
6B Wasatch
3B Washington
5B Wayne
5B Weber
VERMONT
6A (all)
VIRGINIA
4A (all)
WASHINGTON
5B Adams
5B Asotin
5B Benton
5B Chelan
4C Clallam
4C Clark
5B Columbia
4C Cowlitz
5B Douglas
6B Ferry
5B Franklin
5B Garfield
5B Grant
4C Grays Harbor
4C Island
4C Jefferson
4C King
4C Kitsap
5B Kittitas
5B Klickitat
4C Lewis
5B Lincoln
4C Mason
6B Okanogan
4C Pacific
6B Pend Oreille
4C Pierce
4C San Juan
4C Skagit
5B Skamania
4C Snohomish
5B Spokane
6B Stevens
4C Thurston
4C Wahkiakum
5B Walla Walla
4C Whatcom
5B Whitman
5B Yakima
WEST VIRGINIA
5A Barbour
4A Berkeley
4A Boone
4A Braxton
5A Brooke
4A Cabell
4A Calhoun
4A Clay
5A Doddridge
5 A Fayette
4 A Gilmer
5 A Grant
5A Greenbrier
5A Hampshire
5A Hancock
5A Hardy
5A Harrison
4A Jackson
4A Jefferson
4A Kanawha
5 A Lewis
4A Lincoln
4A Logan
5A Marion
5A Marshall
4A Mason
4A McDowell
4A Mercer
5 A Mineral
4A Mingo
5A Monongalia
4A Monroe
4A Morgan
5A Nicholas
5A Ohio
5A Pendleton
4A Pleasants
5A Pocahontas
5A Preston
4A Putnam
5 A Raleigh
5A Randolph
4A Ritchie
4A Roane
5 A Summers
5A Taylor
5 A Tucker
4A Tyler
5A Upshur
4A Wayne
5A Webster
5 A Wetzel
4A Wirt
4A Wood
4A Wyoming
WISCONSIN
6A Adams
7 Ashland
6 A Barron
7 Bayfield
6 A Brown
6A Buffalo
7 Burnett
6A Calumet
6A Chippewa
6A Clark
6A Columbia
6A Crawford
6A Dane
6A Dodge
6A Door
7 Douglas
6A Dunn
6A Eau Claire
7 Florence
6A Fond du Lac
7 Forest
6A Grant
6A Green
6A Green Lake
6A Iowa
7 Iron
6A Jackson
6A Jefferson
6A Juneau
6A Kenosha
6A Kewaunee
6A La Crosse
6A Lafayette
7 Langlade
7 Lincoln
6A Manitowoc
6A Marathon
6 A Marinette
6A Marquette
6A Menominee
6A Milwaukee
6A Monroe
6A Oconto
7 Oneida
6A Outagamie
(continued)
478
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
TABLE N1 1 01 .1 (R301 .1 )— continued
CLIMATE ZONES, MOISTURE REGIMES, AND WARM-HUMID
DESIGNATIONS BY STATE, COUNTY AND TERRITORY
6A Ozaukee
7 Taylor
6B Big Horn
6B Sheridan
NORTHERN
6A Pepin
6A Trempealeau
6B Campbell
7 Sublette
MARIANA
6A Pierce
6A Vernon
6B Carbon
6B Sweetwater
ISLANDS
6A Polk
7 Vilas
6B Converse
7 Teton
1A (all)*
6A Portage
6A Walworth
6B Crook
6B Uinta
7 Price
7 Washburn
6B Fremont
6B Washakie
PUERTO RICO
6A Racine
6A Washington
5B Goshen
6B Weston
1A (all)*
6 A Richland
6A Waukesha
6B Hot Springs
US TERRITORIES
VIRGIN ISLANDS
6A Rock
6A Waupaca
6B Johnson
6A Rusk
6A Waushara
6B Laramie
AMERICAN
1A (all)*
6A Sauk
6A Winnebago
7 Lincoln
SAMOA
7 Sawyer
6A Wood
6B Natrona
lA(all)*
6A Shawano
6A Sheboygan
WYOMING
6B Niobrara
6B Park
GUAM
6A St. Croix
6B Albany
5B Platte
1A (all)*
TABLE N1 101. 10.2(1) [R302.3(1)]
INTERNATIONAL CLIMATE ZONE DEFINITIONS
MAJOR CLIMATE TYPE DEFINITIONS
Marine (C) Definition — Locations meeting all four criteria:
1. Mean temperature of coldest month between -3°C (27°F) and 18°C (65°F).
2. Warmest month mean < 22°C (72°F).
3. At least four months with mean temperatures over 10°C (50°F).
4. Dry season in summer. The month with the heaviest precipitation in the cold season has at least three times as much precipitation as the
month with the least precipitation in the rest of the year. The cold season is October through March in the Northern Hemisphere and
April through September in the Southern Hemisphere.
Dry (B) Definition — Locations meeting the following criteria:
Not mari tie and P. , < 0.44 x (TF - 1 9.5) [P cm < 2.0 x (TC + 7) in SI units]
where:
P m = Annual precipitation in inches (cm)
T = Annual mean temperature in °F (°C)
Moist (A) Definition — Locations that are not marine and not dry.
Warm-humid Definition — Moist (A) locations where either of the following wet-bulb temperature conditions shall occur during the warmest
six consecutive months of the year:
1 . 67°F (19.4°C) or higher for 3,000 or more hours; or
2. 73°F (22.8°C) or higher for 1 ,500 or more hours.
For SI: °C = [(°F)-32]/l .8, 1 inch = 2.54 cm.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
479
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
TABLE N1 1 01 .1 0.2(2) [R301 .3(2)]
INTERNATIONAL CLIMATE ZONE DEFINITIONS
ZONE
NUMBER
THERMAL CRITERIA
IP Units
SI Units
1
9000 < CDD50°F
5000 < CDD10°C
2
6300 < CDD50°F < 9000
3500 <CDD10°C< 5000
3A and 3B
4500 < CDD50°F < 6300 AND HDD65°F < 5400
2500 < CDD10°C < 3500 AND HDD18°C < 3000
4A and 4B
CDD50°F < 4500 AND HDD65°F < 5400
CDD10°C < 2500 AND HDD18°C < 3000
3C
HDD65°F < 3600
HDD18°C<2000
4C
3600 < HDD65°F < 5400
2000 <HDD18°C< 3000
5
5400 < HDD65°F < 7200
3000 <HDD18°C< 4000
6
7200 < HDD65°F < 9000
4000 <HDD18°C< 5000
7
9000 <HDD65°F< 12600
5000 <HDD18°C< 7000
8
12600 <HDD65°F
7000 < HDD 18°C
For SI: °C = [(°F)-32]/1 .8.
N1101.ll (R302.1) Interior design conditions. The interior
design temperatures used for heating and cooling load calcu-
lations shall be a maximum of 72°F (22°C) for heating and
minimum of 75°F (24°C) for cooling.
N1101.12 (R303.1) Identification. Materials, systems and
equipment shall be identified in a manner that will allow a
determination of compliance with the applicable provisions
of this code.
NUM. 12.1 (R303.1.1) Building thermal envelope insu-
lation. An tf-value identification mark shall be applied by
the manufacturer to each piece of building thermal enve-
lope insulation 12 inches (305 mm) or greater in width.
Alternately, the insulation installers shall provide a certifi-
cation listing the type, manufacturer and lvalue of insula-
tion installed in each element of the building thermal
envelope. For blown or sprayed insulation (fiberglass and
cellulose), the initial installed thickness, settled thickness,
settled fl-value, installed density, coverage area and num-
ber of bags installed shall be listed on the certification. For
sprayed polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation, the installed
thickness of the areas covered and fl-value of installed
thickness shall be listed on the certification. The insulation
installer shall sign, date and post the certification in a con-
spicuous location on the job site.
N1101. 12.1.1 (R303.1.1.1) Blown or sprayed roof/
ceiling insulation. The thickness of blown-in or
sprayed roof/ceiling insulation (fiberglass or cellulose)
shall be written in inches (mm) on markers that are
installed at least one for every 300 square feet (28 m 2 )
throughout the attic space. The markers shall be affixed
to the trusses or joists and marked with the minimum
initial installed thickness with numbers a minimum of 1
inch (25 mm) in height. Each marker shall face the attic
access opening. Spray polyurethane foam thickness and
installed tf-value shall be listed on certification pro-
vided by the insulation installer.
N1101.12.2 (R303.1.2) Insulation mark installation.
Insulating materials shall be installed such that the manu-
facturer' s tf-value mark is readily observable upon inspec-
tion.
N1101.12.3 (R303.1.3) Fenestration product rating. U-
factors of fenestration products (windows, doors and sky-
lights) shall be determined in accordance with NFRC 1 00
by an accredited, independent laboratory, and labeled and
certified by the manufacturer. Products lacking such a
labeled {/-factor shall be assigned a default [/-factor from
Table Nl 101. 12.3(1) or Nl 101.12.3(2). The solar heat
gain coefficient (SHGC) and visible transmittance (VT) of
glazed fenestration products (windows, glazed doors and
skylights) shall be determined in accordance with NFRC
200 by an accredited, independent laboratory, and labeled
and certified by the manufacturer. Products lacking such a
labeled SHGC or VT shall be assigned a default SHGC or
VT from Table Nl 101. 12.3(3).
TABLE N1101. 12.3(1) [R303.1.3(1)]
DEFAULT GLAZED FENESTRATION U-FACTOR
FRAME TYPE
SINGLE
PANE
DOUBLE
PANE
SKYLIGHT
Single
Double
Metal
1.20
0.80
2.00
1.30
Metal with Thermal Break
1.10
0.65
1.90
1.10
Non metal or Metal Clad
0.95
0.55
1.75
1.05
Glazed Block
0.60
TABLE N1 101. 12.3(2) [R303.1.3(2)]
DEFAULT DOOR (/-FACTORS
DOOR TYPE
IAFACTOR
Uninsulated Metal
1.20
Insulated Metal
0.60
Wood
0.50
Insulated, nonmetal edge, max 45% glazing,
any glazing double pane
0.35
TABLE N1 101. 12.3(3) [R303.1 .3(3)]
DEFAULT GLAZED FENESTRATION SHGC AND VT
SINGLE GLAZED
DOUBLE GLAZED
GLAZED
BLOCK
Clear
Tinted
Clear
Tinted
SHGC
0.8
0.7
0.7
0.6
0.6
VT
0.6
0.3
0.6
0.3
0.6
480
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Nil 01. 12.4 (R303.1.4) Insulation product rating. The
thermal resistance (R- value) of insulation shall be deter-
mined in accordance with the U.S. Federal Trade Commis-
sion R- value rule (CFR Title 16, Part 460) in units of h x
ft 2 x °F/Btu at a mean temperature of 75°F (24°C).
N1101.13 (R303.2) Installation. All materials, systems and
equipment shall be installed in accordance with the manufac-
turer's installation instructions and this code.
Nl 101.13.1 (R303.2.1) Protection of exposed founda-
tion insulation. Insulation applied to the exterior of base-
ment walls, crawlspace walls and the perimeter of slab-on-
grade floors shall have a rigid, opaque and weather-resis-
tant protective covering to prevent the degradation of the
insulation's thermal performance. The protective covering
shall cover the exposed exterior insulation and extend a
minimum of 6 inches (153 mm) below grade.
N1101.14 (R303.3) Maintenance information. Maintenance
instructions shall be furnished for equipment and systems that
require preventive maintenance. Required regular mainte-
nance actions shall be clearly stated and incorporated on a
readily accessible label. The label shall include the title or
publication number for the operation and maintenance man-
ual for that particular model and type of product.
N1101.15 (R401.2) Compliance. Projects shall comply with
Sections identified as "mandatory" and with either sections
identified as "prescriptive" or the performance approach in
Section Nil 05.
N1101.16 (R401.3) Certificate (Mandatory). A permanent
certificate shall be completed and posted on or in the electri-
cal distribution panel by the builder or registered design pro-
fessional. The certificate shall not cover or obstruct the
visibility of the circuit directory label, service disconnect
label or other required labels. The certificate shall list the pre-
dominant /?-values of insulation installed in or on ceiling/
roof, walls, foundation (slab, basement wall, crawl space wall
and/or floor) and ducts outside conditioned spaces; {/-factors
for fenestration and the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) of
fenestration, and the results from any required duct system
and building envelope air leakage testing done on the build-
ing. Where there is more than one value for each component,
the certificate shall list the value covering the largest area.
The certificate shall list the types and efficiencies of heating,
cooling and service water heating equipment. Where a gas-
fired unvented room heater, electric furnace, or baseboard
electric heater is installed in the residence, the certificate shall
list "gas-fired unvented room heater," "electric furnace" or
"baseboard electric heater," as appropriate. An efficiency
shall not be listed for gas-fired unvented room heaters, elec-
tric furnaces or electric baseboard heaters.
TABLE N1102.1.1 (R402.1.1)
INSULATION AND FENESTRATION REQUIREMENTS BY COMPONENT"
CLIMATE
ZONE
FENESTRATION
U-FACTOR"
SKYLIGHT"
U-FACTOR
GLAZED
FENESTRATION
SHGC"
CEILING
R-VALUE
WOOD
FRAME WALL
R-VALUE
MASS
WALL
R-VALUE 1
FLOOR
R-VALUE
BASEMENT
WALL
R-VALUE
SLAB"
R-VALUE
& DEPTH
CRAWL
SPACE
WALL
R-VALUE
l
NR
0.75
0.25
30
13
3/4
13
2
0.40
0.65
0.25
38
13
4/6
13
3
0.35
0.55
0.25
38
20 or 13 + 5 h
8/13
19
5/13'
5/13
4 except
Marine
0.35
0.55
0.40
49
20 or 13 + 5 h
8/13
19
10/13
10,2 ft
10/13
5 and
Marine 4
0.32
0.55
NR
49
20orl3 + 5 h
13/17
30 8
15/19
10,2ft
15/19
6
0.32
0.55
NR
49
20 + 5 or 13 +10"
15/20
30 s
15/19
10,4 ft
15/19
7 and 8
0.32
0.55
NR
49
20 + 5 or 13 + 10''
19/21
38 e
15/19
10, 4 ft
15/19
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. R-values are minimums. (/-factors and SHGC are maximums. When insulation is installed in a cavity which is less than the label or design thickness of the
insulation, the installed Rvalue of the insulation shall not be less than the Rvalue specified in the table.
b. The fenestration (/-factor column excludes skylights. The SHGC column applies to all glazed fenestration.
Exception: Skylights may be excluded from glazed fenestration SHGC requirements in Climate Zones 1 through 3 where the SHGC for such skylights does
not exceed 0.30.
c. "15/19" means R-15 continuous insulation on the interior or exterior of the home or R-19 cavity insulation at the interior of the basement wall. "15/19" shall
be permitted to be met with R-13 cavity insulation on the interior of the basement wall plus R-5 continuous insulation on the interior or exterior of the home.
"10/13" means R- 1 continuous insulation on the interior or exterior of the home or R- 1 3 cavity insulation at the interior of the basement wall.
d. R-5 shall be added to the required slab edge R-values for heated slabs. Insulation depth shall be the depth of the footing or 2 feet, whichever is less in Zones 1
through 3 for heated slabs.
e. There are no SHGC requirements in the Marine Zone.
f. Basement wall insulation is not required in warm-humid locations as defined by Figure N 1101. 10 and Table Nl 101 .10.
g. Or insulation sufficient to fill the framing cavity, R-19 minimum.
h. First value is cavity insulation, second is continuous insulation or insulated siding, so "13 + 5" means R-l 3 cavity insulation plus R-5 continuous insulation or
insulated siding. If structural sheathing covers 40 percent or less of the exterior, continuous insulation Rvalue shall be permitted to be reduced by no more
than R-3 in the locations where structural sheathing is used - to maintain a consistent total sheathing thickness.
i. The second /{-value applies when more than half the insulation is on the interior of the mass wall.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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SECTION N1 102
BUILDING THERMAL ENVELOPE
N1102.1 (R402.1) General (Prescriptive). The building
thermal envelope shall meet the requirements of Sections
Nl 102. 1.1 through Nil 02. 1.4.
N1102.1.1 (R402.1.1) Insulation and fenestration crite-
ria. The building thermal envelope shall meet the require-
ments of Table N 1102.1.1 based on the climate zone
specified in Section Nl 101 .10.
Nl 102.1. 2 (R402.1.2) fi-value computation. Insulation
material used in layers, such as framing cavity insulation
and insulating sheathing, shall be summed to compute the
component R-value. The manufacturer's settled R- value
shall be used for blown insulation. Computed 7?-values
shall not include an lvalue for other building materials or
air films.
N1102.1.3 (R402.1.3) [/-factor alternative. An assembly
with a [/-factor equal to or less than that specified in Table
Nl 102.1.3 shall be permitted as an alternative to the R-
value in Table Nl 102.1.1.
N1102.1.4 (R402.1.4) Total UA alternative. If the total
building thermal envelope UA (sum of [/-factor times
assembly area) is less than or equal to the total UA result-
ing from using the [/-factors in Table Nil 02. 1.3 (multi-
plied by the same assembly area as in the proposed
building), the building shall be considered in compliance
with Table Nl 102.1.1. The UA calculation shall be done
using a method consistent with the ASHRAE Handbook of
Fundamentals and shall include the thermal bridging
effects of framing materials. The SHGC requirements
shall be met in addition to UA compliance.
N1102.2 (R402.2) Specific insulation requirements (Pre-
scriptive). In addition to the requirements of Section
Nl 102.1, insulation shall meet the specific requirements of
Sections N1102.2.1 through N1102.2.12.
Nl 102.2.1 (R402.2.1) Ceilings with attic spaces. When
Secton Nl 102. 1 . ] would require R-38 in the ceiling, R-30
shall be deemed to satisfy the requirement for R-38 wher-
ever the full height of uncompressed R-30 insulation
extends over the wall top plate at the eaves. Similarly, R-
38 shall be deemed to satisfy the requirement for R-49
wherever the full height of uncompressed R-38 insulation
extends over the wall top plate at the eaves. This reduction
shall not apply to the [/-factor alternative approach in Sec-
ton Nl 102. 1.3 and the total UA alternative in Secton
N1102.1.4.
N1102.2.2 (R402.2.2) Ceilings without attic spaces.
Where Secton Nl 102.1.1 would require insulation levels
above R-30 and the design of the roof/ceiling assembly
does not allow sufficient space for the required insulation,
the minimum required insulation for such roof/ceiling
assemblies shall be R-30. This reduction of insulation
from the requirements of Secton Nl 102.1.1 shall be lim-
ited to 500 square feet (46 m 2 ) or 20 percent of the total
insulated ceiling area, whichever is less. This reduction
shall not apply to the [/-factor alternative approach in Sec-
ton Nl 102. 1.3 and the total UA alternative in Secton
Nl 102.1.4.
N1102.2.3 (R402.2.3) Eave baffle. For air permeable
insulations in vented attics, a baffle shall be installed adja-
cent to soffit and eave vents. Baffles shall maintain an
opening equal or greater than the size of the vent. The
baffle shall extend over the top of the attic insulation. The
baffle shall be permitted to be any solid material.
N1102.2.4 (R402.2.4) Access hatches and doors. Access
doors from conditioned spaces to unconditioned spaces
(e.g., attics and crawl spaces) shall be weatherstripped and
insulated to a level equivalent to the insulation on the sur-
rounding surfaces. Access shall be provided to all equip-
ment that prevents damaging or compressing the
insulation. A wood framed or equivalent baffle or retainer
is required to be provided when loose fill insulation is
installed, the purpose of which is to prevent the loose fill
insulation from spilling into the living space when the attic
access is opened, and to provide a permanent means of
maintaining the installed /?-value of the loose fill insula-
tion.
N1102.2.5 (R402.2.5) Mass walls. Mass walls for the pur-
poses of this chapter shall be considered above-grade
walls of concrete block, concrete, insulated concrete form
(ICF), masonry cavity, brick (other than brick veneer),
earth (adobe, compressed earth block, rammed earth) and
solid timber/logs.
TABLE N1 102.1 .3 (R402.1.3)
EQUIVALENT [/-FACTORS 3
CLIMATE
ZONE
FENESTRATION
1/-FACTOR
SKYLIGHT
U-FACTOR
CEILING
U-FACTOR
FRAME
WALL
U-FACTOR
MASS WALL
U-FACTOR b
FLOOR
U-FACTOR
BASEMENT
WALL
1/-FACTOR
CRAWL
SPACE WALL
U-FACTOR
1
0.50
0.75
0.035
0.082
0.197
0.064
0.360
0.477
2
0.40
0.65
0.030
0.082
0.165
0.064
0.360
0.477
3
0.35
0.55
0.030
0.057
0.098
0.047
0.091'
0.136
4 except Marine
0.35
0.55
0.026
0.057
0.098
0.047
0.059
0.065
5 and Marine 4
0.32
0.55
0.026
0.057
0.082
0.033
0.050
0.055
6
0.32
0.55
0.026
0.048
0.060
0.033
0.050
0.055
7 and 8
0.32
0.55
0.026
0.048
0.057
0.028
0.050
0.055
a. Nonfenestration {/-factors shall be obtained from measurement, calculation or an approved source.
b. When more than half the insulation is on the interior, the mass wall {/-factors shall be a maximum of 0.17 in Zone 1, 0.14 in Zone 2, 0.12 in Zone 3 087 in
Zone 4 except Marine, 0.065 in Zone 5 and Marine 4, and 0.057 in Zones 6 through 8.
c. Basement wall {/-factor of 0.360 in warm-humid locations as defined by Figure 301.1 and Table 301 .1 .
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N1102.2.6 (R402.2.6) Steel-frame ceilings, walls, and
floors. Steel-frame ceilings, walls, and floors shall meet
the insulation requirements of Table Nl 102.2.6 or shall
meet the {/-factor requirements of Table Nl 102.1.3. The
calculation of the [/-factor for a steel-frame envelope
assembly shall use a series-parallel path calculation
method.
TABLE N1 102.2.6 (R402.2.6)
STEEL-FRAME CEILING, WALL AND FLOOR INSULATION
(R-VALUE)
WOOD FRAME
R-VALUE
REQUIREMENT
COLD-FORMED STEEL
EQUIVALENT fl-VALUE'
Steel Truss Ceilings"
R-30
R-38orR-30 + 3orR-26 + 5
R-38
R-49 or R-38 + 3
R-49
R-38 + 5
Steel Joist Ceilings b
R-30
R-38 in 2x4 or 2x6 or 2x8 R-49
in any framing
R-38
R-49in2x4or2x6or2x8or2x 10
Steel-Framed Wall, 16"o.c.
R-L3
R-13 + 4.2 or R-19 + 2.1 or R-21 + 2.8 or
R-0 + 9.3 or R-15 + 3.8 or R-21 + 3.1
R-13 + 3
R-0 + 1 1.2 or R-13 + 6.1 or R-15 + 5.7 or
R-19 + 5.0 or R-21 +4.7
R-20
R-0 + 14.0 or R-13 + 8.9 or R-15 + 8.5 or
R-19 + 7.8 or R-19 + 6.2 or R-21 + 7.5
R-20 + 5
R-13 + 12.7 or R-15 + 12.3 or R-19 + 11.6 or
R-21 + 11.3 orR-25 + 10.9
R-21
R-0 +14.6 or R-13 + 9.5 or R-15 + 9.1 or
R-19 + 8.4 or R-21 + 8.1 or R-25 + 7.7
Steel-Framed Wall, 24" o.c.
R-13
R-0 + 9.3 or R-13 + 3.0 or R-15 + 2.4
R-13 + 3
R-0 + 1 1 .2 or R-13 + 4.9 or R-15 + 4.3 or
R-19 + 3.5 or R-21 + 3.1
R-20
R-0+ l4.0orR-l3 + 7.7orR-15 + 7.l or
R-19 + 6.3orR-21+5.9
R-20 + 5
R-13 + 11. 5 or R-15 +10.9 or R-19 + 10.1 or
R-21 +9.7 or R-25 + 9.1
R-21
R-0 + 14.6 or R-13 + 8.3 or R-15 + 7.7 or
R-19 + 6.9 or R-21 + 6.5 or R-25 + 5.9
Steel Joist Floor
R-13
R-19 in 2 x 6, or R-19 + 6 in 2x8 or 2x10
R-19
R-19 + 6 in 2 x 6, or R-19 + 12 in 2 x 8 or 2 x 10
a. Cavity insulation R-value is listed first, followed by continuous insulation
R-value.
b. Insulation exceeding the height of the framing shall cover the framing.
N1102.2.7 (R402.2.7) Floors. Floor insulation shall be
installed to maintain permanent contact with the underside
of the subfloor decking.
N 1102.2.8 (R402.2.8) Basement walls. Walls associated
with conditioned basements shall be insulated from the top
of the basement wall down to 10 feet (3048 mm) below
grade or to the basement floor, whichever is less. Walls
associated with unconditioned basements shall meet this
requirement unless the floor overhead is insulated in
accordance with Sections Nl 102.1 .1 and Nl 102.2.7.
N 1102.2.9 (R402.2.9) Slab-on-grade floors. Slab-on-
grade floors with a floor surface less than 1 2 inches (305
mm) below grade shall be insulated in accordance with
Table Nl 102.1.1. The insulation shall extend downward
from the top of the slab on the outside or inside of the
foundation wall. Insulation located below grade shall be
extended the distance provided in Table Nl 102.1.1 by any
combination of vertical insulation, insulation extending
under the slab or insulation extending out from the build-
ing. Insulation extending away from the building shall be
protected by pavement or by a minimum of 10 inches (254
mm) of soil. The top edge of the insulation installed
between the exterior wall and the edge of the interior slab
shall be permitted to be cut at a 45-degree (0.79 rad) angle
away from the exterior wall. Slab-edge insulation is not
required in jurisdictions designated by the building official
as having a very heavy termite infestation.
Nl 102.2.10 (R402.2.10) Crawl space walls. As an alter-
native to insulating floors over crawl spaces, crawl space
walls shall be permitted to be insulated when the crawl
space is not vented to the outside. Crawl space wall insula-
tion shall be permanently fastened to the wall and extend
downward from the floor to the finished grade level and
then vertically and/or horizontally for at least an additional
24 inches (610 mm). Exposed earth in unvented crawl
space foundations shall be covered with a continuous
Class I vapor retarder in accordance with this code. All
joints of the vapor retarder shall overlap by 6 inches (153
mm) and be sealed or taped. The edges of the vapor
retarder shall extend at least 6 inches (153 mm) up the
stem wall and shall be attached to the stem wall.
N1102.2.11 (R402.2.11) Masonry veneer. Insulation
shall not be required on the horizontal portion of the foun-
dation that supports a masonry veneer.
Nl 102.2.12 (R402.2.12) Sunroom insulation. All sun-
rooms enclosing conditioned spaces shall meet the insula-
tion requirements of this code.
Exception: For sunrooms with thermal isolation, and
enclosing conditioned spaces, the following exceptions
to the insulation requirements of this code shall apply:
1. The minimum ceiling insulation R- values shall be
R-19 in Zones 1 through 4 and R-24 in Zones 5
through 8; and
2. The minimum wall S-value shall be R-13 in all
zones. Wall(s) separating a sunroom with a ther-
mal isolation from conditioned space shall meet
the building thermal envelope requirements of
this code.
N1102.3 (R402.3) Fenestration (Prescriptive). In addition
to the requirements of Secton Nil 02, fenestration shall com-
ply with Sections Nl 102.3.1 through Nl 102.3.6.
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Nl 102.3.1 (R402.3.1) [/-factor. An area-weighted aver-
age of fenestration products shall be permitted to satisfy
the [/-factor requirements.
Nl 102.3.2 (R402.3.2) Glazed fenestration SHGC. An
area- weighted average of fenestration products more than
50-percent glazed shall be permitted to satisfy the SHGC
requirements.
Nil 02.3.3 (R402.3.3) Glazed fenestration exemption.
Up to 15 square feet (1.4 m 2 ) of glazed fenestration per
dwelling unit shall be permitted to be exempt from [/-fac-
tor and SHGC requirements in Secton Nl 102.1.1. This
exemption shall not apply to the [/-factor alternative
approach in Secton Nl 102.1.3 and the Total UA alterna-
tive in Secton Nl 102.1.4.
Nl 102.3.4 (R402.3.4) Opaque door exemption. One
side -hinged opaque door assembly up to 24 square feet
(2.22 m 2 ) in area is exempted from the [/-factor require-
ment in Secton Nl 102.1.1. This exemption shall not apply
to the [/-factor alternative approach in Secton Nl 102.1.3
and the total UA alternative in Secton N 1102. 1.4.
N1102.3.5 (R402.3.5) Sunroom [/-factor. All sunrooms
enclosing conditioned spaces shall meet the fenestration
requirements of this code.
Exception: For sunrooms with thermal isolation and
enclosing conditioned spaces, in Zones 4 through 8, the
following exceptions to the fenestration requirements
of this code shall apply:
1. The maximum fenestration [/-factor shall be
0.45; and
2. The maximum skylight [/-factor shall be 0.70.
New fenestration separating the sunroom with
thermal isolation from conditioned space shall
meet the building thermal envelope requirements
of this code.
N1102.3.6 (R402.3.6) Replacement fenestration. Where
some or all of an existing fenestration unit is replaced with
a new fenestration product, including sash and glazing, the
replacement fenestration unit shall meet the applicable
requirements for [/-factor and SHGC in Table Nl 102.1.1 .
Nl 102.4 (R402.4) Air leakage (Mandatory). The building
thermal envelope shall be constructed to limit air leakage in
accordance with the requirements of Sections Nl 102.4.1
through Nl 102.4.4.
N 1102.4.1 (R402.4.1) Building thermal envelope. The
building thermal envelope shall comply with Sections
N1102.4.1.1 and Nl 102.4.1.2. The sealing methods
between dissimilar materials shall allow for differential
expansion and contraction.
N1102.4.1.1 (R402.4.1.1) Installation. The compo-
nents of the building thermal envelope as listed in
Table Nl 102.4.1. 1 shall be installed in accordance with
the manufacturer's instructions and the criteria listed in
Table N 1 102.4. 1 . 1 , as applicable to the method of con-
struction. Where required by the building official, an
approved third party shall inspect all components and
verify compliance.
N 1102.4.1.2 (R402.4.1.2) Testing. The building or
dwelling unit shall be tested and verified as having an
air leakage rate of not exceeding 5 air changes per hour
in Zones 1 and 2, and 3 air changes per hour in Zones 3
through 8. Testing shall be conducted with a blower
door at a pressure of 0.2 inches w.g. (50 Pascals).
Where required by the building official, testing shall be
conducted by an approved third party. A written report
of the results of the test shall be signed by the party
conducting the test and provided to the building offi-
cial. Testing shall be performed at any time after cre-
ation of all penetrations of the building thermal
envelope.
During testing:
1. Exterior windows and doors, fireplace and stove
doors shall be closed, but not sealed, beyond the
intended weatherstripping or other infiltration
control measures;
2. Dampers including exhaust, intake, makeup air,
backdraft and flue dampers shall be closed, but
not sealed beyond intended infiltration control
measures;
3. Interior doors, if installed at the time of the test,
shall be open;
4. Exterior doors for continuous ventilation systems
and heat recovery ventilators shall be closed and
sealed;
5. Heating and cooling systems, if installed at the
time of the test, shall be turned off; and
6. Supply and return registers, if installed at the
time of the test, shall be fully open.
N 1102.4.2 (R402.4.2) Fireplaces. New wood-burning
fireplaces shall have tight-fitting flue dampers and outdoor
combustion air.
Nl 102.4.3 (R402.4.3) Fenestration air leakage. Win-
dows, skylights and sliding glass doors shall have an air
infiltration rate of no more than 0.3 cfm per square foot
(1.5 L/s/m 2 ), and swinging doors no more than 0.5 cfm per
square foot (2.6 L/s/m 2 ), when tested according to NFRC
400 or AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/1.S.2/A440 by an
accredited, independent laboratory and listed and labeled
by the manufacturer.
Exception: Site-built windows, skylights and doors.
Nl 102.4.4 (R402.4.4) Recessed lighting. Recessed lumi-
naires installed in the building thermal envelope shall be
sealed to limit air leakage between conditioned and uncon-
ditioned spaces. All recessed luminaires shall be IC-rated
and labeled as having an air leakage rate not more than 2.0
cfm (0.944 L/s) when tested in accordance with ASTM E
283 at a 1 .57 psf (75 Pa) pressure differential. All recessed
luminaires shall be sealed with a gasket or caulk between
the housing and the interior wall or ceiling covering.
Nl 102.5 (R402.5) Maximum fenestration [/-factor and
SHGC (Mandatory). The area-weighted average maximum
fenestration [/-factor permitted using tradeoffs from Secton
Nl 102.1.4 or N1105 shall be 0.48 in Zones 4 and 5 and 0.40
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in Zones 6 through 8 for vertical fenestration, and 0.75 in
Zones 4 through 8 for skylights. The area-weighted average
maximum fenestration SHGC permitted using tradeoffs from
Secton Nl 105 in Zones 1 through 3 shall be 0.50.
SECTION N1 103
SYSTEMS
N1103.1 (R403.1) Controls (Mandatory). At least one ther-
mostat shall be provided for each separate heating and cool-
ing system.
N1103.1.1 (R403.1.1) Programmable thermostat.
Where the primary heating system is a forced-air furnace,
at least one thermostat per dwelling unit shall be capable
of controlling the heating and cooling system on a daily
schedule to maintain different temperature set points at
different times of the day. This thermostat shall include
the capability to set back or temporarily operate the system
to maintain zone temperatures down to 55°F (13°C) or up
to 85°F (29°C). The thermostat shall initially be pro-
grammed with a heating temperature set point no higher
TABLE N1102.4.1.1 (R402.4.1.1)
AIR BARRIER AND INSULATION INSTALLATION
COMPONENT
Air barrier and thermal barrier
Ceiling/attic
Walls
Windows, skylights and doors
Rim joists
Floors
(including above-garage and cantilevered floors)
Crawl space walls
CRITERIA 3
A continuous air barrier shall be installed in the building envelope.
Exterior thermal envelope contains a continuous air barrier.
Breaks or joints in the air barrier shall be sealed.
Air-permeable insulation shall not be used as a sealing material.
The air barrier in any dropped ceiling/soffit shall be aligned with the insulation and any
gaps in the air barrier sealed.
Access openings, drop down stair or knee wall doors to unconditioned attic spaces shall
be sealed.
Corners and headers shall be insulated and the junction of the foundation and sill plate
shall be sealed.
The junction of the top plate and top of exterior walls shall be sealed.
Exterior thermal envelope insulation for framed walls shall be installed in substantial
contact and continuous alignment with the air barrier.
Knee walls shall be sealed.
The space between window/door jambs and framing and skylights and framing shall be
sealed.
Rim joists shall be insulated and include the air barrier.
Insulation shall be installed to maintain permanent contact with underside of subfloor
decking.
The air barrier shall be installed at any exposed edge of insulation
Shafts, penetrations
Narrow cavities
Garage separation
Recessed lighting
Plumbing and wiring
Shower/tub on exterior wall
Electrical/phone box on exterior walls
HVAC register boots
Fireplace
Where provided in lieu of floor insulation, insulation shall be permanently attached to
the crawlspace walls.
Exposed earth in unvented crawl spaces shall be covered with a Class I vapor retarder
with overlapping joints taped.
Duct shafts, utility penetrations, and flue shafts opening to exterior or unconditioned
space shall be sealed.
Batts in narrow cavities shall be cut to fit, or narrow cavities shall be filled by insulation
that on installation readily conforms to the available cavity space.
Air sealing shall be provided between the garage and conditioned spaces.
Recessed light fixtures installed in the building thermal envelope shall be air tight, IC
rated, and sealed to the drywall.
Batt insulation shall be cut neatly to fit around wiring and plumbing in exterior walls, or
insulation that on installation readily conforms to available space shall extend behind
piping and wiring.
Exterior walls adjacent to showers and tubs shall be insulated and the air barrier installed
separating them from the showers and tubs.
The air barrier shall be installed behind electrical or communication boxes or air-sealed
boxes shall be installed.
HVAC register boots that penetrate building thermal envelope shall be sealed to the sub-
floor or drywall.
a. In addition, inspection of log walls shall be in accordance with the provisions of ICC-400.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
An air barrier shall be installed on fireplace walls. Fireplaces shall have gasketed doors.
485
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
than 70°F (21°C) and a cooling temperature set point no
lower than 78°F (26°C).
N1103.1.2 (R403.1.2) Heat pump supplementary heat
(Mandatory). Heat pumps having supplementary electric-
resistance heat shall have controls that, except during
defrost, prevent supplemental heat operation when the
heat pump compressor can meet the heating load.
Nl 103.2 (R403.2) Ducts. Ducts and air handlers shall be in
accordance with Sections Nl 103.2.1 through N1103.2.3.
N 1103.2.1 (R403.2.1) Insulation (Prescriptive). Supply
ducts in attics shall be insulated to a minimum of R-8. All
other ducts shall be insulated to a minimum of R-6.
Exception: Ducts or portions thereof located com-
pletely inside the building thermal envelope.
N1103.2.2 (R403.2.2) Sealing (Mandatory). Ducts, air
handlers, and filter boxes shall be sealed. Joints and seams
shall comply with Section M160 1.4.1 of this code.
Exceptions:
1. Air-impermeable spray foam products shall be
permitted to be applied without additional joint
seals.
2. Where a duct connection is made that is partially
inaccessible, three screws or rivets shall be
equally spaced on the exposed portion of the joint
so as to prevent a hinge effect.
3. Continuously welded and locking-type longitudi-
nal joints and seams in ducts operating at static
pressures less than 2 inches of water column (500
Pa) pressure classification shall not require addi-
tional closure systems.
Duct tightness shall be verified by either of the follow-
ing:
1. Postconstruction test: Total leakage shall be less
than or equal to 4 cfm (113.3 L/min) per 100 square
feet (9.29 m 2 ) of conditioned floor area when tested
at a pressure differential of 0.1 inches w.g. (25 Pa)
across the entire system, including the manufac-
turer's air handler enclosure. All register boots shall
be taped or otherwise sealed during the test.
2. Rough-in test: Total leakage shall be less than or
equal to 4 cfm ( 1 1 3.3 L/min) per 100 ft 2 (9.29 m 2 ) of
conditioned floor area when tested at a pressure dif-
ferential of 0.1 inches w.g. (25 Pa) across the sys-
tem, including the manufacturer's air handler
enclosure. All registers shall be taped or otherwise
sealed during the test. If the air handler is not
installed at the time of the test, total leakage shall be
less than or equal to 3 cfm (85 L/min) per 100
square feet (9.29 m 2 ) of conditioned floor area.
Exception: The total leakage test is not required for
ducts and air handlers located entirely within the
building thermal envelope.
Nl 103.2.2.1 (R403.2.2.1) Sealed air handler. Air han-
dlers shall have a manufacturer's designation for an air
leakage of no more than 2 percent of the design air flow
rate when tested in accordance with ASHRAE 193.
Nl 103.2.3 (R403.2.3) Building cavities (Mandatory).
Building framing cavities shall not be used as ducts or ple-
nums.
N1103.3 (R403.3) Mechanical system piping insulation
(Mandatory). Mechanical system piping capable of carrying
fluids above 105°F (41 °C) or below 55 °F (13°C) shall be
insulated to a minimum of R-3.
N1103.3.1 (R403.3.1) Protection of piping insulation.
Piping insulation exposed to weather shall be protected
from damage, including that caused by sunlight, moisture,
equipment maintenance, and wind, and shall provide
shielding from solar radiation that can cause degradation
of the material. Adhesive tape shall not be permitted.
N1103.4 (R403.4) Service hot water systems. Energy con-
servation measures for service hot water systems shall be in
accordance with Sections Nl 103.4.1 and Nil 03.4.2.
N1103.4.1 (R403.4.1) Circulating hot water systems
(Mandatory). Circulating hot water systems shall be pro-
vided with an automatic or readily accessible manual
switch that can turn off the hot-water circulating pump
when the system is not in use.
N1103.4.2 (R403.4.2) Hot water pipe insulation (Pre-
scriptive). Insulation for hot water pipe with a minimum
thermal resistance (fi-value) of R-3 shall be applied to the
following:
1 . Piping larger than 3 / 4 -inch nominal diameter.
2. Piping serving more than one dwelling unit.
3. Piping from the water heater to kitchen outlets.
4. Piping located outside the conditioned space.
5. Piping from the water heater to a distribution mani-
fold.
6. Piping located under a floor slab.
7. Buried piping.
8. Supply and return piping in recirculation systems
other than demand recirculation systems.
9. Piping with run lengths greater than the maximum
run lengths for the nominal pipe diameter given in
Table Nl 103.4.2.
All remaining piping shall be insulated to at least R-3
or meet the run length requirements of Table Nl 103.4.2.
TABLE N1 103.4.2 (R403.4.2)
MAXIMUM RUN LENGTH (feet) a
Nominal pipe diameter of largest
diameter pipe in the run (inch)
%
%
X
>X
Maximum run length
30
20
10
5
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Total length of all piping from the distribution manifold or the
recirculation loop to a point of use.
N1103.5 (R403.5) Mechanical ventilation (Mandatory).
The building shall be provided with ventilation that meets the
requirements of Section Ml 507 of this code or with other
approved means of ventilation. Outdoor air intakes and
486
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
exhausts shall have automatic or gravity dampers that close
when the ventilation system is not operating.
N1103.5.1 (R403.S.1) Whole-house mechanical ventila-
tion system fan efficacy. Mechanical ventilation system
fans shall meet the efficacy requirements of Table
N1103.5.1.
Exception: Where mechanical ventilation fans are inte-
gral to tested and listed HVAC equipment, they shall be
powered by an electronically commutated motor.
N 1 103.6 (R403.6) Equipment sizing (Mandatory). Heating
and cooling equipment shall be sized in accordance with
ACCA Manual S based on building loads calculated in accor-
dance with ACCA Manual J or other approved heating and
cooling calculation methodologies.
Nl 103.7 (R403.7) Systems serving multiple dwelling units
(Mandatory). Systems serving multiple dwelling units shall
comply with Sections C403 and C404 of the IECC— Com-
mercial Provisions in lieu of Secton Nl 103.
Nl 103.8 (R403.8) Snow melt system controls (Manda-
tory). Snow- and ice-melting systems, supplied through
energy service to the building, shall include automatic con-
trols capable of shutting off the system when the pavement
temperature is above 50°F (10°C), and no precipitation is
falling and an automatic or manual control that will allow
shutoff when the outdoor temperature is above 40°F (4.8°C).
N1103.9 (R403.9) Pools and inground permanently
installed spas (Mandatory). Pools and inground perma-
nently installed spas shall comply with Sections Nl 103.9.1
through Nil 03.9.3.
N1103.9.1 (R403.9.1) Heaters. All heaters shall be
equipped with a readily accessible on-off switch that is
mounted outside of the heater to allow shutting off the
heater without adjusting the thermostat setting. Gas-fired
heaters shall not be equipped with constant burning pilot
lights.
Nil 03.9.2 (R403.9.2) Time switches. Time switches or
other control method that can automatically turn off and
on heaters and pumps according to a preset schedule shall
be installed on all heaters and pumps. Heaters, pumps and
motors that have built in timers shall be deemed in compli-
ance with this requirement.
Exceptions:
1. Where public health standards require 24-hour
pump operation.
2. Where pumps are required to operate solar-and
waste-heat-recovery pool heating systems.
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
N1103.9.3 (R403.9.3) Covers. Heated pools and inground
permanently installed spas shall be provided with a vapor-
retardant cover.
Exception: Pools deriving over 70 percent of the
energy for heating from site-recovered energy, such as
a heat pump or solar energy source computed over an
operating season.
SECTION N1 104
ELECTRICAL POWER AND LIGHTING SYSTEMS
(MANDATORY)
Nl 104.1 (R404.1) Lighting equipment (Mandatory). A
minimum of 75 percent of the lamps in permanently installed
lighting fixtures shall be high-efficacy lamps or a minimum
of 75 percent of the permanently installed lighting fixtures
shall contain only high-efficacy lamps.
Exception: Low-voltage lighting shall not be required to
utilize high-efficiency lamps.
N1104.1.1 (R404.1.1) Lighting equipment (Manda-
tory). Fuel gas lighting systems shall not have continu-
ously burning pilot lights.
SECTION N1 105
SIMULATED PERFORMANCE ALTERNATIVE
(PERFORMANCE)
N1105.1 (R405.1) Scope. This section establishes criteria for
compliance using simulated energy performance analysis.
Such analysis shall include heating, cooling, and service
water heating energy only.
Nil 05.2 (R405.2) Mandatory requirements. Compliance
with this section requires that the mandatory provisions iden-
tified in Section Nl 101.15 be met. All supply and return
ducts not completely inside the building thermal envelope
shall be insulated to a minimum of R-6.
N1105.3 (R405.3) Performance-based compliance. Com-
pliance based on simulated energy performance requires that
a proposed residence (proposed design) be shown to have an
annual energy cost that is less than or equal to the annual
energy cost of the standard reference design. Energy prices
shall be taken from a source approved by the building offi-
cial, such as the Department of Energy, Energy Information
Administration's State Energy Price and Expenditure Report.
Building officials shall be permitted to require time-of-use
pricing in energy cost calculations.
Exception: The energy use based on source energy
expressed in Btu (J) or Btu per square foot (J/m 2 ) of condi-
tioned floor area shall be permitted to be substituted for
TABLE N1 103.5.1 (R403.5.1)
MECHANICAL VENTILATION SYSTEM FAN EFFICACY
FAN LOCATION
AIR FLOW RATE MINIMUM
(CFM)
MINIMUM EFFICACY
(CFM/WATT)
AIR FLOW RATE MAXIMUM
(CFM)
Range hoods
Any
2.8 cfm/watt
Any
In-line fan
Any
2.8 cfm/watt
Any
Bathroom, utility room
10
1.4 cfm/watt
<90
Bathroom, utility room
90
2.8 cfm/watt
Any
For SI: I cubic foot per minute = 28.3 L/min.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
487
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
the energy cost. The source energy multiplier for electric-
ity shall be 3.16. The source energy multiplier for fuels
other than electricity shall be 1.1.
N1105.4 (R405.4) Documentation. Documentation of the
software used for the performance design and the parameters
for the building shall be in accordance with Sections
Nl 105.4.1 through Nl 105.4.3.
N1105.4.1 (R405.4.1) Compliance software tools. Docu-
mentation verifying that the methods and accuracy of the
compliance software tools conform to the provisions of
this section shall be provided to the building official.
N1105.4.2 (R405.4.2) Compliance report. Compliance
software tools shall generate a report that documents that
the proposed design complies with Secton Nl 105.3. The
compliance documentation shall include the following
information:
1 . Address or other identification of the residence;
2. An inspection checklist documenting the building
component characteristics of the proposed design as
listed in Table Nl 105.5.2(1). The inspection check-
list shall show results for both the standard refer-
ence design and the proposed design, and shall
document all inputs entered by the user necessary to
reproduce the results;
3. Name of individual completing the compliance
report; and
4. Name and version of the compliance software tool.
Exception: Multiple orientations. When an otherwise
identical building model is offered in multiple orienta-
tions, compliance for any orientation shall be permitted
by documenting that the building meets the perfor-
mance requirements in each of the four cardinal (north,
east, south and west) orientations.
Nil 05.4.3 (R405.4.3) Additional documentation. The
building official shall be permitted to require the following
documents:
1. Documentation of the building component charac-
teristics of the standard reference design.
2. A certification signed by the builder providing the
building component characteristics of the proposed
design as given in Table Nl 105.5.2(1).
3. Documentation of the actual values used in the soft-
ware calculations for the proposed design.
N1105.5 (R405.5) Calculation procedure. Calculations of
the performance design shall be in accordance with Sections
Nl 105.5.1 and Nl 105.5.2.
Nl 105.5.1 (R405.5.1) General. Except as specified by
this section, the standard reference design and proposed
design shall be configured and analyzed using identical
methods and techniques.
N 1105.5.2 (R405.5.2) Residence specifications. The
standard reference design and proposed design shall be
configured and analyzed as specified by Table
Nl 105.5.2(1). Table Nl 105.5.2(1) shall include by refer-
ence all notes contained in Table Nl 102.1.1.
N1105.6 (R405.6) Calculation software tools. Calculation
software, where used, shall be in accordance with Sections
Nl 105.6.1 through Nl 105.6.3.
N1105.6.1 (R405.6.1) Minimum capabilities. Calcula-
tion procedures used to comply with this section shall be
software tools capable of calculating the annual energy
consumption of all building elements that differ between
the standard reference design and the proposed design and
shall include the following capabilities:
1. Computer generation of the standard reference
design using only the input for the proposed design.
The calculation procedure shall not allow the user to
directly modify the building component characteris-
tics of the standard reference design.
2. Calculation of whole-building (as a single zone) siz-
ing for the heating and cooling equipment in the
standard reference design residence in accordance
with Secton Nl 103.6.
3. Calculations that account for the effects of indoor
and outdoor temperatures and part-load ratios on the
performance of heating, ventilating and air-condi-
tioning equipment based on climate and equipment
sizing.
4. Printed building official inspection checklist listing
each of the proposed design component characteris-
tics from Table Nl 105.5.2(1) determined by the
analysis to provide compliance, along with their
respective performance ratings (e.g., lvalue, {/-fac-
tor, SHGC, HSPF, AFUE, SEER, EF, etc.).
Nl 105.6.2 (R405.6.2) Specific approval. Performance
analysis tools meeting the applicable sections of Secton
N1105 shall be permitted to be approved. Tools are per-
mitted to be approved based on meeting a specified thresh-
old for a jurisdiction. The building official shall be
permitted to approve tools for a specified application or
limited scope.
N1105.6.3 (R405.6.3) Input values. When calculations
require input values not specified by Sections N1102,
N1103, N1104 and N1105, those input values shall be
taken from an approved source.
488
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
TABLE N1105.5.2(1) [R405.5.2(1)]
SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE STANDARD REFERENCE AND PROPOSED DESIGNS
BUILDING COMPONENT
STANDARD REFERENCE DESIGN
PROPOSED DESIGN
Above-grade walls
Type: mass wall if proposed wall is mass; otherwise wood frame.
Gross area: same as proposed
[/-factor: from Table Nl 102.1.3
Solar absorptance = 0.75
Remittance = 0.90
As proposed
As proposed
As proposed
As proposed
As proposed
Basement and crawl
space walls
Type: same as proposed
Gross area: same as proposed
[/-factor: from Table Nl 102.1.3, with insulation layer on interior side of walls.
As proposed
As proposed
As proposed
Above-grade floors
Type: wood frame
Gross area: same as proposed
[/-factor: from Table Nl 102.1 .3
As proposed
As proposed
As proposed
Ceilings
Type: wood frame
Gross area: same as proposed
[/-factor: from Table Nl 102.1.3
As proposed
As proposed
As proposed
Roofs
Type: composition shingle on wood sheathing
Gross area: same as proposed
Solar absorptance = 0.75
Emittance = 0.90
As proposed
As proposed
As proposed
As proposed
Attics
Type: vented with aperture = 1 ft 2 per 300 ft 2 ceiling area
As proposed
Foundations
Type: same as proposed foundation wall area above and below grade and soil
characteristics: same as proposed.
As proposed
As proposed
Doors
Area: 40 ft 2
Orientation: North
[/-factor: same as fenestration from Table Nl 102. 1 .3.
As proposed
As proposed
As proposed
Glazing"
Total area b =
(a) The proposed glazing area; where proposed glazing area is less than 15%
of the conditioned floor area.
(b) 15% of the conditioned floor area; where the proposed glazing area is 15%
or more of the conditioned floor area.
Orientation: equally distributed to four cardinal compass orientations
(N, E, S&W).
[/-factor: from Table Nl 102. 1 .3
SHGC: From Table Nl 102.1.1 except that for climates with no requirement
(NR) SHGC = 0.40 shall be used.
Interior shade fraction: 0.92-(0.21 x SHGC for the standard reference design)
External shading: none
As proposed
As proposed
As proposed
As proposed
0.92-(0.21 x SHGC as proposed)
As proposed
Skylights
None
As proposed
Thermally isolated sun-
rooms
None
As proposed
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
489
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
TABLE N1 105.5.2(1) [R405.5.2(1)]— continued
SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE STANDARD REFERENCE AND PROPOSED DESIGNS
BUILDING COMPONENT
STANDARD REFERENCE DESIGN
PROPOSED DESIGN
Air exchange rate
Air leakage rate of 5 air changes per hour in Zones I and 2, and 3 air
changes per hour in Zones 3 through 8 at a pressure of 0.2 inches w.g
(50 Pa). The mechanical ventilation rate shall be in addition to the air
leakage rate and the same as in the proposed design, but no greater than
0.01 x CFA + 7.5 x (N hr + 1)
where:
CFA = conditioned floor area
N br = number of bedrooms
Energy recovery shall not be assumed for mechanical ventilation.
For residences that are not
tested, the same air leakage rate
as the standard reference design.
For tested residences, the mea-
sured air exchange rate'.
The mechanical ventilation rate d
shall be in addition to the air
leakage rate and shall be as pro-
posed.
Mechanical ventilation
None, except where mechanical ventilation is specified by the pro-
posed design, in which case:
Annual vent fan energy use:
kWh/yr = 0.03942 x CFA + 29.565 x (N br + 1)
where:
CFA = conditioned floor area
N br = number of bedrooms
As proposed
Internal gains
IGain = 17,900 + 23.8 x CFA + 4104 x N br (Btu/day per dwelling unit)
Same as standard reference
design.
Internal mass
An internal mass for furniture and contents of 8 pounds per square foot
of floor area.
Same as standard reference
design, plus any additional mass
specifically designed as a ther-
mal storage element 6 but not
integral to the building envelope
or structure.
Structural mass
For masonry floor slabs, 80% of floor area covered by R-2 carpet and
pad, and 20% of floor directly exposed to room air.
For masonry basement walls, as proposed, but with insulation required
by Table 402. 1 .3 located on the interior side of the walls.
For other walls, for ceilings, floors, and interior walls, wood frame
construction.
As proposed
As proposed
As proposed
Heating systems '' g
As proposed for other than electric heating without a heat pump.
Where the proposed design utilizes electric heating without a heat
pump the standard reference design shall be an air source heat pump
meeting the requirements of Section C403 of the International Energy
Conservation Code — Commercial Provisions.
Capacity: sized in accordance with Secton Nl 103.6
As proposed
Cooling systems' 11
As proposed
Capacity: sized in accordance with Secton Nl 103.6.
As proposed
Service water
Heating'- S - M
As proposed
Use: same as proposed design
As proposed
gal/day = 30 + (10 x NJ
Thermal distribution systems
None
Thermal distribution system
efficiency shall be as tested or as
specified in Table Nl 105.5.2(2)
if not tested. Duct insulation
shall be as proposed.
Thermostat
Type: Manual, cooling temperature setpoint = 75°F;
Heating temperature setpoint = 72°F
Same as standard reference
(continued)
490
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
TABLE N1 105.5.2(1) [R405.5.2(1)]— continued
SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE STANDARD REFERENCE AND PROPOSED DESIGNS
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.93 m 2 , I British thermal unit = 1055 J, t pound per square foot = 4.88 kg/m 2 , I gallon (U.S.) = 3.785 L,
°C = (°F-3)/l .8, 1 degree = 0.79 rad, 1 inch water gauge = 1250 Pa.
a. Glazing shall be defined as sunlight-transmitting fenestration, including the area of sash, curbing or other framing elements, that enclose conditioned space
Glazing includes the area of sunlight-transmitting fenestration assemblies in walls bounding conditioned basements. For doors where the sunlight-transmitting
opening is less than 50 percent of the door area, the glazing area is the sunlight transmitting opening area. For all other doors, the glazing area is the rough
frame opening area for the door including the door and the frame.
b. For residences with conditioned basements, R-2 and R-4 residences and townhouses, the following formula shall be used to determine »lazin° area-
AF = \xFAxF '
where:
AF = Total glazing area.
A s = Standard reference design total glazing area.
FA = (Above-grade thermal boundary gross wall area)/( above-grade boundary wall area + 0.5 x below-grade boundary wall area).
F = (Above-grade thermal boundary wall area)/(above-grade thermal boundary wall area + common wall area) or 0.56. whichever is greater.
and where:
Thermal boundary wall is any wall that separates conditioned space from unconditioned space or ambient conditions.
Above-grade thermal boundary wall is any thermal boundary wall component not in contact with soil.
Below-grade boundary wall is any thermal boundary wall in soil contact.
Common wall area is the area of walls shared with an adjoining dwelling unit.
L and CFA are in the same units.
c. Where required by the building official, testing shall be conducted by an approved party. Hourly calculations as specified in the ASHRAE Handbook of
Fundamentals, or the equivalent shall be used to determine the energy loads resulting from infiltration.
d. The combined air exchange rate for infiltration and mechanical ventilation shall be determined in accordance with Equation 43 of 200 1 ASHRAE Handbook
of Fundamentals, page 26.24 and the "Whole-house Ventilation" provisions of 2001 ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals, page 26.19 for intermittent
mechanical ventilation.
e. Thermal storage element shall mean a component not part of the floors, walls or ceilings that is part of a passive solar system, and that provides thermal
storage such as enclosed water columns, rock beds, or phase-change containers. A thermal storage element must be in the same room as fenestration that faces
within 15 degrees (0.26 rad) of true south, or must be connected to such a room with pipes or ducts that allow the element to be actively charged.
f. For a proposed design with multiple heating, cooling or water heating systems using different fuel types, the applicable standard reference design system
capacities and fuel types shall be weighted in accordance with their respective loads as calculated by accepted engineering practice for each equipment and
fuel type present.
g. For a proposed design without a proposed heating system, a heating system with the prevailing federal minimum efficiency shall be assumed for both the
standard reference design and proposed design.
h. For a proposed design home without a proposed cooling system, an electric air conditioner with the prevailing federal minimum efficiency shall be assumed
for both the standard reference design and the proposed design,
i. For a proposed design with a nonstorage-type water heater, a 40-gallon storage-type water heater with the prevailing federal minimum energy factor for the
same fuel as the predominant heating fuel type shall be assumed. For the case of a proposed design without a proposed water heater, a 40-gallon storage-type
water heater with the prevailing federal minimum efficiency for the same fuel as the predominant heating fuel type shall be assumed for both the proposed
design and standard reference design.
TABLE N1 105.5.2(2) [R405.5.2(2)l
DEFAULT DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM EFFICIENCIES FOR PROPOSED DESIGNS"
DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM CONFIGURATION AND CONDITION
Distribution system components located in unconditioned space
Untested distribution systems entirely located in conditioned space
"Ductless" systems' 1
FORCED AIR SYSTEMS
0.8
I
HYDRONIC SYSTEMS"
0.95
For SI: 1 cubic foot per minute = 0.47 L/s, 1 square foot = 0.093m 2 , 1 pound per square inch = 6895 Pa, 1 inch water gauge = 1250 Pa.
a. Default values given by this table are for untested distribution systems, which must still meet minimum requirements for duct system insulation.
b. Hydronic systems shall mean those systems that distribute heating and cooling energy directly to individual spaces using liquids pumped through closed-loop
piping and that do not depend on ducted, forced airflow to maintain space temperatures.
c. Entire system in conditioned space shall mean that no component of the distribution system, including the air handler unit, is located outside of the conditioned
space.
d. Ductless systems shall be allowed to have forced airflow across a coil but shall not have any ducted airflow external to the manufacturer's air handler
enclosure.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE® 49 1
4 9 2 201 2 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
Part V—Mechanical
CHAPTER 12
MECHANICAL ADMINISTRATION
SECTION M1201
GENERAL
M1201.1 Scope. The provisions of Chapters 12 through 24
shall regulate the design, installation, maintenance, alteration
and inspection of mechanical systems that are permanently
installed and used to control environmental conditions within
buildings. These chapters shall also regulate those mechani-
cal systems, system components, equipment and appliances
specifically addressed in this code.
M1201.2 Application. In addition to the general administra-
tion requirements of Chapter 1, the administrative provisions
of this chapter shall also apply to the mechanical require-
ments of Chapters 13 through 24.
SECTION M1 202
EXISTING MECHANICAL SYSTEMS
M1202.1 Additions, alterations or repairs. Additions, alter-
ations, renovations or repairs to a mechanical system shall
conform to the requirements for a new mechanical system
without requiring the existing mechanical system to comply
with all of the requirements of this code. Additions, altera-
tions or repairs shall not cause an existing mechanical system
to become unsafe, hazardous or overloaded. Minor additions,
alterations or repairs to existing mechanical systems shall
meet the provisions for new construction, unless such work is
done in the same manner and arrangement as was in the exist-
ing system, is not hazardous, and is approved.
M1202.2 Existing installations. Except as otherwise pro-
vided for in this code, a provision in this code shall not
require the removal, alteration or abandonment of, nor pre-
vent the continued use and maintenance of, an existing
mechanical system lawfully in existence at the time of the
adoption of this code.
M1202.3 Maintenance. Mechanical systems, both existing
and new, and parts thereof shall be maintained in proper oper-
ating condition in accordance with the original design and in
a safe and sanitary condition. Devices or safeguards that are
required by this code shall be maintained in compliance with
the code edition under which installed. The owner or the
owner's designated agent shall be responsible for mainte-
nance of the mechanical systems. To determine compliance
with this provision, the building official shall have the author-
ity to require a mechanical system to be reinspected.
201 2 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE® 493
494 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 13
IECHAN1CAL SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
SECTION M1 301
GENERAL
M1301.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern
the installation of mechanical systems not specifically cov-
ered in other chapters applicable to mechanical systems.
Installations of mechanical appliances, equipment and sys-
tems not addressed by this code shall comply with the appli-
cable provisions of the International Mechanical Code and
the International Fuel Gas Code.
M1301.1.1 Flood-resistant installation. In flood hazard
areas as established by Table R301.2(l), mechanical
appliances, equipment and systems shall be located or
installed in accordance with Section R322.1.6.
M1301.2 Identification. Each length of pipe and tubing and
each pipe fitting utilized in a mechanical system shall bear
the identification of the manufacturer.
M1301.3 Installation of materials. All materials used shall
be installed in strict accordance with the standards under
which the materials are accepted and approved. In the
absence of such installation procedures, the manufacturer's
instructions shall be followed. Where the requirements of ref-
erenced standards or manufacturer's instructions do not con-
form to minimum provisions of this code, the provisions of
this code shall apply.
M1301.4 Plastic pipe, fittings and components. Plastic
pipe, fittings and components shall be third-party certified as
conforming to NSF 14.
M1301.5 Third-party testing and certification. Piping, tub-
ing and fittings shall comply with the applicable referenced
standards, specifications and performance criteria of this code
and shall be identified in accordance with Section Ml 301. 2.
Piping, tubing and fittings shall either be tested by an
approved third-party testing agency or certified by an
approved third-party certification agency.
SECTION M13Q2
APPROVAL
M1302.1 Listed and labeled. Appliances regulated by this
code shall be listed and labeled for the application in which
they are installed and used, unless otherwise approved in
accordance with Section R104.1 1.
SECTION M1 303
LABELING OF APPLIANCES
M1303.1 Label information. A permanent factory-applied
nameplate(s) shall be affixed to appliances on which shall
appear, in legible lettering, the manufacturer's name or trade-
mark, the model number, a serial number and the seal or mark
of the testing agency. A label shall also include the follow-
ing:
1. Electrical appliances. Electrical rating in volts,
amperes and motor phase; identification of individual
electrical components in volts, amperes or watts and
motor phase; and in Btu/h (W) output and required
clearances.
2. Absorption units. Hourly rating in Btu/h (W), minimum
hourly rating for units having step or automatic modu-
lating controls, type of fuel, type of refrigerant, cooling
capacity in Btu/h (W) and required clearances.
3. Fuel-burning units. Hourly rating in Btu/h (W), type of
fuel approved for use with the appliance and required
clearances.
4. Electric comfort-heating appliances. The electric rating
in volts, amperes and phase; Btu/h (W) output rating;
individual marking for each electrical component in
amperes or watts, volts and phase; and required clear-
ances from combustibles.
5. Maintenance instructions. Required regular mainte-
nance actions and title or publication number for the
operation and maintenance manual for that particular
model and type of product.
SECTION M1304
TYPE OF FUEL
M1304.1 Fuel types. Fuel-fired appliances shall be designed
for use with the type of fuel to which they will be connected
and the altitude at which they are installed. Appliances that
comprise parts of the building mechanical system shall not be
converted for the use of a different fuel, except where
approved and converted in accordance with the manufac-
turer's instructions. The fuel input rate shall not be increased
or decreased beyond the limit rating for the altitude at which
the appliance is installed.
SECTION M1305
APPLIANCE ACCESS
M1305.1 Appliance access for inspection service, repair
and replacement. Appliances shall be accessible for inspec-
tion, service, repair and replacement without removing per-
manent construction, other appliances, or any other piping or
ducts not connected to the appliance being inspected, ser-
viced, repaired or replaced. A level working space at least 30
inches deep and 30 inches wide (762 mm by 762 mm) shall
be provided in front of the control side to service an appli-
ance. Installation of room heaters shall be permitted with at
least an 18-inch (457 mm) working space. A platform shall
not be required for room heaters.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
495
GENERAL MECHANICAL SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
M1305.1.1 Furnaces and air handlers. Furnaces and air
handlers within compartments or alcoves shall have a min-
imum working space clearance of 3 inches (76 mm) along
the sides, back and top with a total width of the enclosing
space being at least 12 inches (305 mm) wider than the
furnace or air handler. Furnaces having a firebox open to
the atmosphere shall have at least a 6-inch (152 mm)
working space along the front combustion chamber side.
Combustion air openings at the rear or side of the com-
partment shall comply with the requirements of Chapter
17.
Exception: This section shall not apply to replacement
appliances installed in existing compartments and
alcoves where the working space clearances are in
accordance with the equipment or appliance manufac-
turer's installation instructions.
M1305.1.2 Appliances in rooms. Appliances installed in
a compartment, alcove, basement or similar space shall be
accessed by an opening or door and an unobstructed pas-
sageway measuring not less than 24 inches (610 mm) wide
and large enough to allow removal of the largest appliance
in the space, provided there is a level service space of not
less than 30 inches (762 mm) deep and the height of the
appliance, but not less than 30 inches (762 mm), at the
front or service side of the appliance with the door open.
M1305.1.3 Appliances in attics. Attics containing appli-
ances shall be provided with an opening and a clear and
unobstructed passageway large enough to allow removal
of the largest appliance, but not less than 30 inches (762
mm) high and 22 inches (559 mm) wide and not more than
20 feet (6096 mm) long measured along the centerline of
the passageway from the opening to the appliance. The
passageway shall have continuous solid flooring in accor-
dance with Chapter 5 not less than 24 inches (610 mm)
wide. A level service space at least 30 inches (762 mm)
deep and 30 inches (762 mm) wide shall be present along
all sides of the appliance where access is required. The
clear access opening dimensions shall be a minimum of 20
inches by 30 inches (508 mm by 762 mm), and large
enough to allow removal of the largest appliance.
Exceptions:
1. The passageway and level service space are not
required where the appliance can be serviced and
removed through the required opening.
2. Where the passageway is unobstructed and not
less than 6 feet (1829 mm) high and 22 inches
(559 mm) wide for its entire length, the passage-
way shall be not more than 50 feet (15 250 mm)
long.
M1305.1.3.1 Electrical requirements. A luminaire
controlled by a switch located at the required passage-
way opening and a receptacle outlet shall be installed at
or near the appliance location in accordance with
Chapter 39.
M1305.1.4 Appliances under floors. Underfloor spaces
containing appliances shall be provided with an unob-
structed passageway large enough to remove the largest
appliance, but not less than 30 inches (762 mm) high and
22 inches (559 mm) wide, nor more than 20 feet (6096
mm) long measured along the centerline of the passage-
way from the opening to the appliance. A level service
space at least 30 inches (762 mm) deep and 30 inches (762
mm) wide shall be present at the front or service side of
the appliance. If the depth of the passageway or the ser-
vice space exceeds 12 inches (305 mm) below the adjoin-
ing grade, the walls of the passageway shall be lined with
concrete or masonry extending 4 inches (102 mm) above
the adjoining grade in accordance with Chapter 4. The
rough-framed access opening dimensions shall be a mini-
mum of 22 inches by 30 inches (559 mm by 762 mm), and
large enough to remove the largest appliance.
Exceptions:
1. The passageway is not required where the level
service space is present when the access is open,
and the appliance can be serviced and removed
through the required opening.
2. Where the passageway is unobstructed and not
less than 6 feet high (1929 mm) and 22 inches
(559 mm) wide for its entire length, the passage-
way shall not be limited in length.
M1305.1.4.1 Ground clearance. Equipment and appli-
ances supported from the ground shall be level and
firmly supported on a concrete slab or other approved
material extending not less than 3 inches (76 mm)
above the adjoining ground. Such support shall be in
accordance with the manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions. Appliances suspended from the floor shall have a
clearance of not less than 6 inches (152 mm) from the
ground.
M1305. 1.4.2 Excavations. Excavations for appliance
installations shall extend to a depth of 6 inches (152
mm) below the appliance and 12 inches (305 mm) on
all sides, except that the control side shall have a clear-
ance of 30 inches (762 mm).
M1305. 1.4.3 Electrical requirements. A luminaire
controlled by a switch located at the required passage-
way opening and a receptacle outlet shall be installed at
or near the appliance location in accordance with
Chapter 39.
SECTION M1306
CLEARANCES FROM COMBUSTIBLE
CONSTRUCTION
M1306.1 Appliance clearance. Appliances shall be installed
with the clearances from unprotected combustible materials
as indicated on the appliance label and in the manufacturer's
installation instructions.
M1306.2 Clearance reduction. Reduction of clearances
shall be in accordance with the appliance manufacturer's
instructions and Table M1306.2. Forms of protection with
496
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
GENERAL MECHANICAL SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
ventilated air space shall conform to the following require-
ments:
1 . Not less than 1 -inch (25 mm) air space shall be pro-
vided between the protection and combustible wall sur-
face.
2. Air circulation shall be provided by having edges of the
wall protection open at least 1 inch (25 mm).
3. If the wall protection is mounted on a single flat wall
away from corners, air circulation shall be provided by
having the bottom and top edges, or the side and top
edges open at least 1 inch (25 mm).
4. Wall protection covering two walls in a corner shall be
open at the bottom and top edges at least 1 inch (25
mm).
M1306.2.1 Solid-fuel appliances. Table M1306.2 shall
not be used to reduce the clearance required for solid-fuel
appliances listed for installation with minimum clearances
of 12 inches (305 mm) or less. For appliances listed for
installation with minimum clearances greater than 12
inches (305 mm), Table Ml 306.2 shall not be used to
reduce the clearance to less than 12 inches (305 mm).
SECTION M1 307
APPLIANCE INSTALLATION
Ml 307.1 General. Installation of appliances shall conform
to the conditions of their listing and label and the manufac-
turer's installation instructions. The manufacturer's operating
and installation instructions shall remain attached to the
appliance.
M1307.2 Anchorage of appliances. Appliances designed to
be fixed in position shall be fastened or anchored in an
approved manner. In Seismic Design Categories D, and D 2 ,
water heaters shall be anchored or strapped to resist horizon-
tal displacement caused by earthquake motion. Strapping
shall be at points within the upper one-third and lower one-
third of the appliance's vertical dimensions. At the lower
point, the strapping shall maintain a minimum distance of 4
inches (102 mm) above the controls.
M1307.3 Elevation of ignition source. Appliances having an
ignition source shall be elevated such that the source of igni-
tion is not less than 1 8 inches (457 mm) above the floor in
garages. For the purpose of this section, rooms or spaces that
are not part of the living space of a dwelling unit and that
communicate with a private garage through openings shall be
considered to be part of the garage.
Exception: Elevation of the ignition source is not
required for appliances that are listed as flammable vapor
ignition resistant.
M1307.3.1 Protection from impact. Appliances shall not
be installed in a location subject to vehicle damage except
where protected by approved barriers.
Ml 307.4 Hydrogen generating and refueling operations.
Ventilation shall be required in accordance with Section
M1307.4.1, M1307.4.2 or M1307.4.3 in private garages that
contain hydrogen-generating appliances or refueling systems.
For the purpose of this section, rooms or spaces that are not
part of the living space of a dwelling unit and that communi-
cate directly with a private garage through openings shall be
considered to be part of the private garage.
M1307.4.1 Natural ventilation. Indoor locations
intended for hydrogen-generating or refueling operations
shall be limited to a maximum floor area of 850 square
feet (79 m 2 ) and shall communicate with the outdoors in
accordance with Sections M1307.4.1.1 and M1307.4.1.2.
The maximum rated output capacity of hydrogen -generat-
ing appliances shall not exceed 4 standard cubic feet per
minute (1.9 L/s) of hydrogen for each 250 square feet (23
m 2 ) of floor area in such spaces. The minimum cross-sec-
tional dimension of air openings shall be 3 inches (76
mm). Where ducts are used, they shall be of the same
cross-sectional area as the free area of the openings to
which they connect. In those locations, equipment and
appliances having an ignition source shall be located so
that the source of ignition is not within 12 inches (305
mm) of the ceiling.
M1307.4.1.1 Two openings. Two permanent openings
shall be constructed within the garage. The upper open-
ing shall be located entirely within 12 inches (305 mm)
of the ceiling of the garage. The lower opening shall be
located entirely within 1 2 inches (305 mm) of the floor
of the garage. Both openings shall be constructed in the
same exterior wall. The openings shall communicate
directly with the outdoors and shall have a minimum
free area of 7 2 square foot per 1,000 cubic feet (1.7 m 2 /
1000 m 3 ) of garage volume.
M1307.4.1.2 Louvers and grilles. In calculating free
area required by Section Ml 307.4.1, the required size
of openings shall be based on the net free area of each
opening. If the free area through a design of louver or
grille is known, it shall be used in calculating the size
opening required to provide the free area specified. If
the design and free area are not known, it shall be
assumed that wood louvers will have a 25-percent free
area and metal louvers and grilles will have a 75 -per-
cent free area. Louvers and grilles shall be fixed in the
open position.
Ml 307.4.2 Mechanical ventilation. Indoor locations
intended for hydrogen-generating or refueling operations
shall be ventilated in accordance with Section 502.16 of
the International Mechanical Code. In these locations,
equipment and appliances having an ignition source shall
be located so that the source of ignition is below the
mechanical ventilation outlet(s).
M 1307.4.3 Specially engineered installations. As an
alternative to the provisions of Sections M1307.4.1 and
M1307.4.2, the necessary supply of air for ventilation and
dilution of flammable gases shall be provided by an
approved engineered system.
M 1307.5 Electrical appliances. Electrical appliances shall
be installed in accordance with Chapters 14, 15, 19, 20 and 34
through 43 of this code.
M1307.6 Plumbing connections. Potable water and drainage
system connections to equipment and appliances regulated by
this code shall be in accordance with Chapters 29 and 30.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
497
GENERAL MECHANICAL SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
REDUCTION
TABLE M1 306.2
DF CLEARANCES WITH SPECIFIED FORMS OF PROTECTION 8 cc " Mg
, h, I, ), k, I
TYPE OF PROTECTION APPLIED TO
AND COVERING ALL SURFACES OF
COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL WITHIN THE
DISTANCE SPECIFIED AS THE
REQUIRED CLEARANCE WITH NO
PROTECTION (See Figures M1 306.1 and
M1306.2)
WHERE THE REQUIRED CLEARANCE WITH NO PROTECTION FROM APPLIANCE,
VENT CONNECTOR, OR SINGLE WALL METAL PIPE IS:
36 inches
18 inches
12 inches
9 inches
6 inches
Allowable clearances with specified protection (lnches) b
Use column 1 for clearances above an appliance or horizontal connector.
Use column 2 for clearances from an appliance, vertical connector and single-wall metal pipe.
Above
column 1
Sides and
rear
column 2
Above
column 1
Sides and
rear
column 2
Above
column 1
Sides and
rear
column 2
Above
column 1
Sides and
rear
column 2
Above
column 1
Sides and
rear
column 2
3'/ 2 -inch-thick masonry wall without
ventilated air space
—
24
—
12
—
9
—
6
—
5
V 2 -inch insulation board over 1-inch
glass fiber or mineral wool batts
24
18
12
9
9
6
6
5
4
3
Galvanized sheet steel having a min-
imum thickness of 0.0236-inch (No.
24 gage) over 1 -inch glass fiber or
mineral wool batts reinforced with
wire or rear face with a ventilated air
space
18
12
9
6
6
4
5
3
3
3
3'/ 2 -inch-thick masonry wall with
ventilated air space
—
12
—
6
—
6
—
6
—
6
Galvanized sheet steel having a min-
imum thickness of 0.0236-inch (No.
24 gage) with a ventilated air space
1-inch off the combustible assembly
18
12
9
6
6
4
5
3
3
2
V, -inch-thick insulation board with
ventilated air space
18
12
9
6
6
4
5
3
3
3
Galvanized sheet steel having a min-
imum thickness of 0.0236-inch (No.
24 gage) with ventilated air space
over 24 gage sheet steel with a venti-
lated space
18
12
9
6
6
4
5
3
3
3
1-inch glass fiber or mineral wool
batts sandwiched between two
sheets of galvanized sheet steel hav-
ing a minimum thickness of 0.0236-
inch (No. 24 gage) with a ventilated
air space
18
12
9
6
6
4
5
3
3
3
For SI: I inch = 25.4 ram, I pound per cubic foot = 16.019 kg/m 3 , °C = [(°F)-32/l .8], 1 Btu/(h x fr x °F/in.) = 0.001 442299 (W/cm 2 x °C/cm).
a. Reduction of clearances from combustible materials shall not interfere with combustion air, draft hood clearance and relief, and accessibility of servicing.
b. Clearances shall be measured from the surface of the heat producing appliance or equipment to the outer surface of the combustible material or combustible
assembly.
c. Spacers and ties shall be of noncombustible material. No spacer or tie shall be used directly opposite appliance or connector.
d. Where all clearance reduction systems use a ventilated air space, adequate provision for air circulation shall be provided as described. (See Figures Ml 306. 1
and Ml 306.2.)
e. There shall be at least 1 inch between clearance reduction systems and combustible walls and ceilings for reduction systems using ventilated air space.
f. If a wall protector is mounted on a single flat wall away from corners, adequate air circulation shall be permitted to be provided by leaving only the bottom
and top edges or only the side and top edges open with at least a 1-inch air gap.
g. Mineral wool and glass fiber batts (blanket or board) shall have a minimum density of 8 pounds per cubic foot and a minimum melting point of 1,500°F.
h. Insulation material used as part of a clearance reduction system shall have a thermal conductivity of 1.0 Btu inch per square foot per hour °F or less. Insulation
board shall be formed of noncombustible material,
i. There shall be at least 1 inch between the appliance and the protector. In no case shall the clearance between the appliance and the combustible surface be
reduced below that allowed in this table,
j. All clearances and thicknesses are minimum; larger clearances and thicknesses are acceptable.
k. Listed single-wall connectors shall be permitted to be installed in accordance with the terms of their listing and the manufacturer's instructions.
I. For limitations on clearance reduction for solid-fuel-burning appliances see Section Ml .306.2.1.
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
GENERAL MECHANICAL SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
CONSTRUCTION USING COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL,
PLASTERED OR UNPLASTERED
SHEET METAL OR OTHER
PROTECTION
EQUIPMENT OR
VENT CONNECTOR
Note: "A" equals the required clearance with no protection. "B" equals the reduced clearance permitted in accordance with Table M1306.2. The protection
applied to the construction using combustible material shall extend far enough in each direction to make "C" equal to "A."
FIGURE M1 306.1
REDUCED CLEARANCE DIAGRAM
WALL PROTECTOR MOUNTED
WITH ALL EDGES OPEN
MOUNTED WITH SIDE AND
TOP EDGES OPEN
MOUNTED WITH TOP AND
BOTTOM EDGES OPEN
MUST BE MOUNTED WITH
TOP AND BOTTOM
EDGES OPEN
WALL PROTECTOR MOUNTED
ON SINGLE FLAT WALL
WALL PROTECTOR
INSTALLED IN CORNER
NAIL OR SCREW ANCHOR
MASONRY WALLS CAN BE ATTACHED TO
COMBUSTIBLE WALLS USING WALL TIES
DO NOT USE SPACERS DIRECTLY BEHIND
APPLIANCE OR CONNECTOR
A^
COMBUSTIBLE
WALL
-A-
s
1 IN. AIR SPACE
1 IN. NONCOMBUSTIBLE SPACER
SUCH AS STACKED WASHERS,
SMALL DIAMETER PIPE, TUBING OR
ELECTRICAL CONDUIT
CLEARANCE REDUCTION
/ SYSTEM
For SI: l inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE M1306.2
WALL PROTECTOR CLEARANCE REDUCTION SYSTEM
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
499
GENERAL MECHANICAL SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
SECTION M1 308
MECHANICAL SYSTEMS INSTALLATION
M1308.1 Drilling and notching. Wood-framed structural
members shall be drilled, notched or altered in accordance
with the provisions of Sections R502.8, R602.6, R602.6.1
and R802.7. Holes in load-bearing members of cold-formed
steel light-frame construction shall be permitted only in
accordance with Sections R505.2.5, R603.2.5 and R804.2.5.
In accordance with the provisions of Sections R505.3.5,
R603.3.4 and R804.3.4, cutting and notching of flanges and
lips of load-bearing members of cold-formed steel light frame
construction shall not be permitted. Structural insulated pan-
els (SIPs) shall be drilled and notched or altered in accor-
dance with the provisions of Section R613.7.
M1308.2 Protection against physical damage. In concealed
locations where piping, other than cast-iron or galvanized
steel, is installed through holes or notches in studs, joists, raf-
ters or similar members less than 1 .5 inches (38 mm) from the
nearest edge of the member, the pipe shall be protected by
shield plates. Protective steel shield plates having a minimum
thickness of 0.0575-inch (1.463 mm) (No. 16 gage), shall
cover the area of the pipe where the member is notched or
bored, and shall extend a minimum of 2 inches (51 mm)
above sole plates and below top plates.
500 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 14
HEATING AND COOLING EQUIPMENT AND APPLIANCES
SECTION M14Q1
GENERAL
M1401.1 Installation. Heating and cooling equipment and
appliances shall be installed in accordance with the manufac-
turer's installation instructions and the requirements of this
code.
M1401.2 Access. Heating and cooling equipment and appli-
ances shall be located with respect to building construction
and other equipment and appliances to permit maintenance,
servicing and replacement. Clearances shall be maintained to
permit cleaning of heating and cooling surfaces; replacement
of filters, blowers, motors, controls and vent connections;
lubrication of moving parts; and adjustments.
Exception: Access shall not be required for ducts, piping,
or other components approved for concealment.
M1401.3 Sizing. Heating and cooling equipment and appli-
ances shall be sized in accordance with ACCA Manual S
based on building loads calculated in accordance with ACCA
Manual J or other approved heating and cooling calculation
methodologies.
Ml 40 1.4 Exterior installations. Equipment and appliances
installed outdoors shall be listed and labeled for outdoor
installation. Supports and foundations shall prevent excessive
vibration, settlement or movement of the equipment. Sup-
ports and foundations shall be in accordance with Section
M1305.1.4.1.
M1401.5 Flood hazard. In flood hazard areas as established
by Table R301.2(l), heating and cooling equipment and
appliances shall be located or installed in accordance with
Section R322.1.6.
SECTION Ml 402
CENTRAL FURNACES
M1402.1 General. Oil-fired central furnaces shall conform
to ANSI/UL 727. Electric furnaces shall conform to UL
1995.
M1402.2 Clearances. Clearances shall be provided in accor-
dance with the listing and the manufacturer's installation
instructions.
M1402.3 Combustion air. Combustion air shall be supplied
in accordance with Chapter 17. Combustion air openings
shall be unobstructed for a distance of not less than 6 inches
(152 mm) in front of the openings.
SECTION Ml 403
HEAT PUMP EQUIPMENT
M1403.1 Heat pumps. The minimum unobstructed total area
of the outside and return air ducts or openings to a heat pump
shall be not less than 6 square inches per 1,000 Btu/h (13 208
mmVkW) output rating or as indicated by the conditions of
the listing of the heat pump. Electric heat pumps shall con-
form to UL 1995.
Ml 403.2 Foundations and supports. Supports and founda-
tions for the outdoor unit of a heat pump shall be raised at
least 3 inches (76 mm) above the ground to permit free drain-
age of defrost water, and shall conform to the manufacturer's
installation instructions.
SECTION M1404
REFRIGERATION COOLING EQUIPMENT
M1404.1 Compliance. Refrigeration cooling equipment shall
comply with Section M141 1.
SECTION M1 405
BASEBOARD CONVECTORS
Ml 405.1 General. Electric baseboard convectors shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation
instructions and Chapters 34 through 43 of this code. Electric
baseboard heaters shall be listed and labeled in accordance
with UL 1042.
SECTION M1406
RADIANT HEATING SYSTEMS
M1406.1 General. Electric radiant heating systems shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation
instructions and Chapters 34 through 43 of this code and shall
be listed for the application.
M1406.2 Clearances. Clearances for radiant heating panels
or elements to any wiring, outlet boxes and junction boxes
used for installing electrical devices or mounting luminaires
shall comply with Chapters 34 through 43 of this code.
M1406.3 Installation of radiant panels. Radiant panels
installed on wood framing shall conform to the following
requirements:
1. Heating panels shall be installed parallel to framing
members and secured to the surface of framing mem-
bers or mounted between framing members.
2. Mechanical fasteners shall penetrate only the unheated
portions provided for this purpose. Panels shall not be
fastened at any point closer than 7 4 inch (6.4 mm) to an
element. Other methods of attachment of the panels
shall be in accordance with the panel manufacturer's
instructions.
3. Unless listed and labeled for field cutting, heating pan-
els shall be installed as complete units.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
501
HEATING AND COOLING EQUIPMENT AND APPLIANCES
M1406.4 Installation in concrete or masonry. Radiant
heating systems installed in concrete or masonry shall con-
form to the following requirements:
1. Radiant heating systems shall be identified as being
suitable for the installation, and shall be secured in
place as specified in the manufacturer's installation
instructions.
2. Radiant heating panels or radiant heating panel sets
shall not be installed where they bridge expansion
joints unless protected from expansion and contraction.
M 1406.5 Finish surfaces. Finish materials installed over
radiant heating panels or systems shall be installed in accor-
dance with the manufacturer's installation instructions. Sur-
faces shall be secured so that nails or other fastenings do not
pierce the radiant heating elements.
SECTION M1 407
DUCT HEATERS
M 1407.1 General. Electric duct heaters shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and Chapters
34 through 43 of this code. Electric duct heaters shall comply
with UL 1996.
M1407.2 Installation. Electric duct heaters shall be installed
so that they will not create a fire hazard. Class 1 ducts, duct
coverings and linings shall be interrupted at each heater to
provide the clearances specified in the manufacturer's instal-
lation instructions. Such interruptions are not required for
duct heaters listed and labeled for zero clearance to combusti-
ble materials. Insulation installed in the immediate area of
each heater shall be classified for the maximum temperature
produced on the duct surface.
M1407.3 Installation with heat pumps and air condition-
ers. Duct heaters located within 4 feet (1219 mm) of a heat
pump or air conditioner shall be listed and labeled for such
installations. The heat pump or air conditioner shall addition-
ally be listed and labeled for such duct heater installations.
M1407.4 Access. Duct heaters shall be accessible for servic-
ing, and clearance shall be maintained to permit adjustment,
servicing and replacement of controls and heating elements.
M1407.5 Fan interlock. The fan circuit shall be provided
with an interlock to prevent heater operation when the fan is
not operating.
SECTION M1408
VENTED FLOOR FURNACES
M1408.1 General. Oil-fired vented floor furnaces shall com-
ply with UL 729 and shall be installed in accordance with
their listing, the manufacturer's instructions and the require-
ments of this code.
M1 408.2 Clearances. Vented floor furnaces shall be
installed in accordance with their listing and the manufac-
turer's installation instructions.
Ml 408.3 Location. Location of floor furnaces shall conform
to the following requirements:
1 . Floor registers of floor furnaces shall be installed not
less than 6 inches (152 mm) from a wall.
2. Wall registers of floor furnaces shall be installed not
less than 6 inches (152 mm) from the adjoining wall at
inside corners.
3. The furnace register shall be located not less than 12
inches (305 mm) from doors in any position, draperies
or similar combustible objects.
4. The furnace register shall be located at least 5 feet
(1524 mm) below any projecting combustible materi-
als.
5. The floor furnace burner assembly shall not project into
an occupied under-floor area.
6. The floor furnace shall not be installed in concrete floor
construction built on grade.
7. The floor furnace shall not be installed where a door
can swing within 12 inches (305 mm) of the grille
opening.
M1408.4 Access. An opening in the foundation not less than
18 inches by 24 inches (457 mm by 610 mm), or a trap door
not less than 22 inches by 30 inches (559 mm by 762 mm)
shall be provided for access to a floor furnace. The opening
and passageway shall be large enough to allow replacement
of any part of the equipment.
M 1408.5 Installation. Floor furnace installations shall con-
form to the following requirements:
1 . Thermostats controlling floor furnaces shall be located
in the room in which the register of the floor furnace is
located.
2. Floor furnaces shall be supported independently of the
furnace floor register.
3. Floor furnaces shall be installed not closer than 6
inches (152 mm) to the ground. Clearance may be
reduced to 2 inches (5 1 mm), provided that the lower 6
inches (152 mm) of the furnace is sealed to prevent
water entry.
4. Where excavation is required for a floor furnace instal-
lation, the excavation shall extend 30 inches (762 mm)
beyond the control side of the floor furnace and 12
inches (305 mm) beyond the remaining sides. Excava-
tions shall slope outward from the perimeter of the base
of the excavation to the surrounding grade at an angle
not exceeding 45 degrees (0.79 rad) from horizontal.
5. Floor furnaces shall not be supported from the ground.
SECTION M1 409
VENTED WALL FURNACES
M1409.1 General. Oil-fired vented wall furnaces shall com- I
ply with UL 730 and shall be installed in accordance with |
502
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
HEATING AND COOLING EQUIPMENT AND APPLIANCES
their listing, the manufacturer's instructions and the require-
ments of this code.
M 1409.2 Location. The location of vented wall furnaces
shall conform to the following requirements:
1. Vented wall furnaces shall be located where they will
not cause a fire hazard to walls, floors, combustible fur-
nishings or doors. Vented wall furnaces installed
between bathrooms and adjoining rooms shall not cir-
culate air from bathrooms to other parts of the building.
2. Vented wall furnaces shall not be located where a door
can swing within 12 inches (305 mm) of the furnace air
inlet or outlet measured at right angles to the opening.
Doorstops or door closers shall not be installed to
obtain this clearance.
M1409.3 Installation. Vented wall furnace installations shall
conform to the following requirements:
1. Required wall thicknesses shall be in accordance with
the manufacturer's installation instructions.
2. Ducts shall not be attached to a wall furnace. Casing
extensions or boots shall be installed only when listed
as part of a listed and labeled appliance.
3. A manual shut off valve shall be installed ahead of all
controls.
Ml 409.4 Access. Vented wall furnaces shall be provided
with access for cleaning of heating surfaces; removal of burn-
ers; replacement of sections, motors, controls, filters and
other working parts; and for adjustments and lubrication of
parts requiring such attention. Panels, grilles and access doors
that must be removed for normal servicing operations shall
not be attached to the building construction.
SECTION M1 410
VENTED ROOM HEATERS
M1410.1 General. Vented room heaters shall be tested in
accordance with ASTM E 1509, UL 896 for oil-fired or UL
1482 for solid fuel-fired and installed in accordance with
their listing, the manufacturer's installation instructions and
the requirements of this code.
M1410.2 Floor mounting. Room heaters shall be installed
on noncombustible floors or approved assemblies con-
structed of noncombustible materials that extend at least 18
inches (457 mm) beyond the appliance on all sides.
Exceptions:
1 . Listed room heaters shall be installed on noncom-
bustible floors, assemblies constructed of noncom-
bustible materials or listed floor protectors with
materials and dimensions in accordance with the
appliance manufacturer's instructions.
2. Room heaters listed for installation on combustible
floors without floor protection shall be installed in
accordance with the appliance manufacturer's
instructions.
SECTION M 1411
HEATING AND COOLING EQUIPMENT
M 1411.1 Approved refrigerants. Refrigerants used in direct
refrigerating systems shall conform to the applicable provi-
sions of ANSI/ASHRAE 34.
M1411.2 Refrigeration coils in warm-air furnaces. Where
a cooling coil is located in the supply plenum of a warm-air
furnace, the furnace blower shall be rated at not less than 0.5-
inch water column (124 Pa) static pressure unless the furnace
is listed and labeled for use with a cooling coil. Cooling coils
shall not be located upstream from heat exchangers unless
listed and labeled for such use. Conversion of existing fur-
naces for use with cooling coils shall be permitted provided
the furnace will operate within the temperature rise specified
for the furnace.
M1411.3 Condensate disposal. Condensate from all cooling
coils or evaporators shall be conveyed from the drain pan out-
let to an approved place of disposal. Such piping shall main-
tain a minimum horizontal slope in the direction of discharge
of not less than 7 8 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (1-per-
cent slope). Condensate shall not discharge into a street, alley
or other areas where it would cause a nuisance.
M141 1.3.1 Auxiliary and secondary drain systems. In
addition to the requirements of Section Ml 41 1.3, a sec-
ondary drain or auxiliary drain pan shall be required for
each cooling or evaporator coil where damage to any
building components will occur as a result of overflow
from the equipment drain pan or stoppage in the conden-
sate drain piping. Such piping shall maintain a minimum
horizontal slope in the direction of discharge of not less
than V g unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (1 -percent
slope). Drain piping shall be a minimum of 3 / 4 -inch (19
mm) nominal pipe size. One of the following methods
shall be used:
1. An auxiliary drain pan with a separate drain shall be
installed under the coils on which condensation will
occur. The auxiliary pan drain shall discharge to a
conspicuous point of disposal to alert occupants in
the event of a stoppage of the primary drain. The pan
shall have a minimum depth of 1.5 inches (38 mm),
shall not be less than 3 inches (76 mm) larger than
the unit or the coil dimensions in width and length
and shall be constructed of corrosion-resistant mate-
rial. Galvanized sheet steel pans shall have a mini-
mum thickness of not less than 0.0236-inch (0.6010
mm) (No. 24 Gage). Nonmetallic pans shall have a
minimum thickness of not less than 0.0625 inch (1 .6
mm).
2. A separate overflow drain line shall be connected to
the drain pan installed with the equipment. This
overflow drain shall discharge to a conspicuous
point of disposal to alert occupants in the event of a
stoppage of the primary drain. The overflow drain
line shall connect to the drain pan at a higher level
than the primary drain connection.
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HEATING AND COOLING EQUIPMENT AND APPLIANCES
3. An auxiliary drain pan without a separate drain line
shall be installed under the coils on which condensa-
tion will occur. This pan shall be equipped with a
water level detection device conforming to UL 508
that will shut off the equipment served prior to over-
flow of the pan. The pan shall be equipped with a fit-
ting to allow for drainage. The auxiliary drain pan
shall be constructed in accordance with Item 1 of
this section.
4. A water level detection device conforming to UL
508 shall be installed that will shut off the equip-
ment served in the event that the primary drain is
blocked. The device shall be installed in the primary
drain line, the overflow drain line or the equipment-
supplied drain pan, located at a point higher than the
primary drain line connection and below the over-
flow rim of such pan.
M1411.3.1.1 Water-level monitoring devices. On
down-flow units and all other coils that have no sec-
ondary drain or provisions to install a secondary or aux-
iliary drain pan, a water-level monitoring device shall
be installed inside the primary drain pan. This device
shall shut off the equipment served in the event that the
primary drain becomes restricted. Devices shall not be
installed in the drain line.
M1411.3.2 Drain pipe materials and sizes. Components
of the condensate disposal system shall be cast iron, galva-
nized steel, copper, polybutylene, polyethylene, ABS,
CPVC or PVC pipe or tubing. All components shall be
selected for the pressure and temperature rating of the
installation. Joints and connections shall be made in accor-
dance with the materials specified in Chapter 30. Conden-
sate waste and drain line size shall be not less than 3 / 4 -inch
(19 mm) internal diameter and shall not decrease in size
from the drain pan connection to the place of condensate
disposal. Where the drain pipes from more than one unit
are manifolded together for condensate drainage, the pipe
or tubing shall be sized in accordance with an approved
method.
M1411.3.3 Appliances, equipment and insulation in
pans. Where appliances, equipment or insulation are sub-
ject to water damage when auxiliary drain pans fill, those
portions of the appliances, equipment and insulation shall
be installed above the flood level rim of the pan. Supports
located inside of the pan to support the appliance or equip-
ment shall be water resistant and approved.
Ml 41 1.4 Auxiliary drain pan. Category IV condensing
appliances shall have an auxiliary drain pan where damage to
any building component will occur as a result of stoppage in
the condensate drainage system. These pans shall be installed
in accordance with the applicable provisions of Section
M1411.3.
Exception: Fuel-fired appliances that automatically shut
down operation in the event of a stoppage in the conden-
sate drainage system.
M 141 1.5 Insulation of refrigerant piping. Piping and fit-
tings for refrigerant vapor (suction) lines shall be insulated
with insulation having a thermal resistivity of at least R-4 and
having external surface permeance not exceeding 0.05 perm
[2.87 ng/(s • m 2 • Pa)] when tested in accordance with ASTM
E96.
M1411.6 Locking access port caps. Refrigerant circuit
access ports located outdoors shall be fitted with locking-type
tamper-resistant caps or shall be otherwise secured to prevent
unauthorized access.
SECTION M1412
ABSORPTION COOLING EQUIPMENT
M1412.1 Approval of equipment. Absorption systems shall
be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installa-
tion instructions. Absorption equipment shall comply with
UL 1995.
M1412.2 Condensate disposal. Condensate from the cooling
coil shall be disposed of as provided in Section M1411.3.
M1412.3 Insulation of piping. Refrigerant piping, brine pip-
ing and fittings within a building shall be insulated to prevent
condensation from forming on piping.
M1412.4 Pressure-relief protection. Absorption systems
shall be protected by a pressure-relief device. Discharge from
the pressure-relief device shall be located where it will not
create a hazard to persons or property.
SECTION M 141 3
EVAPORATIVE COOLING EQUIPMENT
M1413.1 General. Evaporative cooling equipment and
appliances shall comply with UL 1995 and shall be installed:
1. According to the manufacturer's instructions.
2. On level platforms in accordance with Section
Ml 305. 1.4.1.
3. So that openings in exterior walls are flashed in accor-
dance with Section R703.8.
4. So as to protect the potable water supply in accordance
with Section P2902.
5. So that air intake opening locations are in accordance
with Section R303.5.1.
SECTION M1414
FIREPLACE STOVES
Ml 414.1 General. Fireplace stoves shall be listed, labeled
and installed in accordance with the terms of the listing. Fire-
place stoves shall be tested in accordance with UL 737.
M 1414.2 Hearth extensions. Hearth extensions for fireplace
stoves shall be installed in accordance with the listing of the
fireplace stove. The supporting structure for a hearth exten-
sion for a fireplace stove shall be at the same level as the sup-
porting structure for the fireplace unit. The hearth extension
shall be readily distinguishable from the surrounding floor
area.
504
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
HEATING AND COOLING EQUIPMENT AND APPLIANCES
SECTSON M1415
MASONRY HEATERS
M1415.1 General. Masonry heaters shall be constructed in
accordance with Section R1002.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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506 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 15
EXHAUST SYSTEMS
SECTION M1 501
GENERAL
M1501.1 Outdoor discharge. The air removed by every
mechanical exhaust system shall be discharged to the out-
doors in accordance with Section Ml 506.2. Air shall not be
exhausted into an attic, soffit, ridge vent or crawl space.
Exception: Whole-house ventilation-type attic fans that
discharge into the attic space of dwelling units having pri-
vate attics shall be permitted.
SECTION M1502
CLOTHES DRYER EXHAUST
Ml 502.1 General. Clothes dryers shall be exhausted in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
M1502.2 Independent exhaust systems. Dryer exhaust sys-
tems shall be independent of all other systems and shall con-
vey the moisture to the outdoors.
Exception: This section shall not apply to listed and
labeled condensing (ductless) clothes dryers.
M1502.3 Duct termination. Exhaust ducts shall terminate
on the outside of the building. Exhaust duct terminations shall
be in accordance with the dryer manufacturer's installation
instructions. If the manufacturer's instructions do not specify
a termination location, the exhaust duct shall terminate not
less than 3 feet (914 mm) in any direction from openings into
buildings. Exhaust duct terminations shall be equipped with a
backdraft damper. Screens shall not be installed at the duct
termination.
M1502.4 Dryer exhaust ducts. Dryer exhaust ducts shall
conform to the requirements of Sections Ml 502.4. 1 through
M1502.4.6.
MI502.4.1 Material and size. Exhaust ducts shall have a
smooth interior finish and be constructed of metal having a
minimum thickness of 0.0157 inches (0.3950 mm) (No. 28
gage). The duct shall be 4 inches (102 mm) nominal in
diameter.
M1502.4.2 Duct installation. Exhaust ducts shall be sup-
ported at intervals not to exceed 12 feet (3658 mm) and
shall be secured in place. The insert end of the duct shall
extend into the adjoining duct or fitting in the direction of
airflow. Exhaust duct joints shall be sealed in accordance
with Section Ml 601 .4.1 and shall be mechanically fas-
tened. Ducts shall not be joined with screws or similar fas-
teners that protrude more than
inside of the duct.
/ 8 inch (3.2 mm) into the |
M1502.4.3 Transition duct. Transition ducts used to con-
nect the dryer to the exhaust duct system shall be a single
length that is listed and labeled in accordance with UL
2158A. Transition ducts shall be a maximum of 8 feet
(2438 mm) in length. Transition ducts shall not be con-
cealed within construction.
M1502.4.4 Duct length. The maximum allowable exhaust
duct length shall be determined by one of the methods
specified in Section M1502.4.4. 1 or M1502.4.4.2.
Ml 502.4.4.1 Specified length. The maximum length
of the exhaust duct shall be 35 feet (10 668 mm) from
the connection to the transition duct from the dryer to
the outlet terminal. Where fittings are used, the maxi-
mum length of the exhaust duct shall be reduced in
accordance with Table Ml 502.4.4.1. The maximum
length of the exhaust duct does not include the transi-
tion duct.
M1502.4.4.2 Manufacturer's instructions. The size
and maximum length of the exhaust duct shall be deter-
mined by the dryer manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions. The code official shall be provided with a copy of
the installation instructions for the make and model of
the dryer at the concealment inspection. In the absence
of fitting equivalent length calculations from the
clothes dryer manufacturer, Table M1502.4.4.1 shall be
used.
M1502.4.5 Length identification. Where the exhaust
duct is concealed within the building construction, the
TABLE M1502.4.4.1
DRYER EXHAUST DUCT FITTING EQUIVALENT LENGTH
DRYER EXHAUST DUCT FITTING TYPE
EQUIVALENT LENGTH
4 inch radius mitered 45 degree elbow
2 feet 6 inches
4 inch radius mitered 90 degree elbow
5 feet
6 inch radius smooth 45 degree elbow
1 foot
6 inch radius smooth 90 degree elbow
1 foot 9 inches
8 inch radius smooth 45 degree elbow
1 foot
8 inch radius smooth 90 degree elbow
1 foot 7 inches
1 inch radius smooth 45 degree elbow
9 inches
10 inch radius smooth 90 degree elbow
1 foot 6 inches
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I degree = 0.0175 rad.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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EXHAUST SYSTEMS
equivalent length of the exhaust duct shall be identified on
a permanent label or tag. The label or tag shall be located
within 6 feet ( 1 829 mm) of the exhaust duct connection.
M1502.4.6 Exhaust duct required. Where space for a
clothes dryer is provided, an exhaust duct system shall be
installed. Where the clothes dryer is not installed at the
time of occupancy the exhaust duct shall be capped or
plugged in the space in which it originates and identified
and marked "future use."
Exception: Where a listed condensing clothes dryer is
installed prior to occupancy of the structure.
M1502.5 Protection required. Protective shield plates shall
be placed where nails or screws from finish or other work are
likely to penetrate the clothes dryer exhaust duct. Shield
plates shall be placed on the finished face of all framing
members where there is less than l'/ 4 inches (32 mm)
between the duct and the finished face of the framing mem-
ber. Protective shield plates shall be constructed of steel, shall
have a minimum thickness of 0.062-inch (1.6 mm) and shall
extend a minimum of 2 inches (51 mm) above sole plates and
below top plates.
SECTION M1503
RANGE HOODS
M1503.1 General. Range hoods shall discharge to the out-
doors through a single-wall duct. The duct serving the hood
shall have a smooth interior surface, shall be air tight, shall be
equipped with a back-draft damper, and shall be independent
of all other exhaust systems. Ducts serving range hoods shall
not terminate in an attic or crawl space or areas inside the
building.
Exception: Where installed in accordance with the manu-
facturer's installation instructions, and where mechanical
or natural ventilation is otherwise provided, listed and
labeled ductless range hoods shall not be required to dis-
charge to the outdoors.
M1503.2 Duct material. Single-wall ducts serving range
hoods shall be constructed of galvanized steel, stainless steel
or copper.
Exception: Ducts for domestic kitchen cooking appli-
ances equipped with down-draft exhaust systems shall be
permitted to be constructed of schedule 40 PVC pipe and
fittings provided that the installation complies with all of
the following:
1 . The duct is installed under a concrete slab poured on
grade;
2. The underfloor trench in which the duct is installed
is completely backfilled with sand or gravel;
3. The PVC duct extends not more than 1 inch (25
mm) above the indoor concrete floor surface;
4. The PVC duct extends not more than 1 inch (25
mm) above grade outside of the building; and
5. The PVC ducts are solvent cemented.
M1503.3 Kitchen exhaust rates. Where domestic kitchen
cooking appliances are equipped with ducted range hoods or
down-draft exhaust systems, the fans shall be sized in accor-
dance with Section M1507.4.
M15D3.4 Makeup air required. Exhaust hood systems capa-
ble of exhausting in excess of 400 cubic feet per minute (0. 19
m 3 /s) shall be provided with makeup air at a rate approxi-
mately equal to the exhaust air rate. Such makeup air systems
shall be equipped with a means of closure and shall be auto-
matically controlled to start and operate simultaneously with
the exhaust system.
SECTION M1504
INSTALLATION OF MICROWAVE OVENS
M1504.1 Installation of a microwave oven over a cooking
appliance. The installation of a listed and labeled cooking
appliance or microwave oven over a listed and labeled cook-
ing appliance shall conform to the terms of the upper appli-
ance's listing and label and the manufacturer's installation
instructions. The microwave oven shall conform to UL 923.
SECTION M1505
OVERHEAD EXHAUST HOODS
M1505.1 General. Domestic open-top broiler units shall
have a metal exhaust hood, having a minimum thickness of
0.0157-inch (0.3950 mm) (No. 28 gage) with 7 4 inch (6.4
mm) clearance between the hood and the underside of com-
bustible material or cabinets. A clearance of at least 24 inches
(610 mm) shall be maintained between the cooking surface
and the combustible material or cabinet. The hood shall be at
least as wide as the broiler unit, extend over the entire unit,
discharge to the outdoors and be equipped with a backdraft
damper or other means to control infiltration/exfiltration
when not in operation. Broiler units incorporating an integral
exhaust system, and listed and labeled for use without an
exhaust hood, need not have an exhaust hood.
SECTION M1 506
EXHAUST DUCTS AND EXHAUST OPENINGS
M1506.1 Ducts. Where exhaust duct construction is not
specified in this chapter, construction shall comply with
Chapter 16.
M 1506.2 Exhaust openings. Air exhaust openings shall ter-
minate not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from property lines; 3
feet (914 mm) from operable and nonoperable openings into
the building and 10 feet (3048 mm) from mechanical air
intakes except where the opening is located 3 feet (914 mm)
above the air intake. Openings shall comply with Sections
R303.5.2 and R303.6.
SECTION M1507
MECHANICAL VENTILATION
M1507.1 General. Where local exhaust or whole-house
mechanical ventilation is provided, the equipment shall be
designed in accordance with this section.
508
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
EXHAUST SYSTEMS
M1507.2 Recirculation of air. Exhaust air from bathrooms
and toilet rooms shall not be recirculated within a residence
or to another dwelling unit and shall be exhausted directly to
the outdoors. Exhaust air from bathrooms and toilet rooms
shall not discharge into an attic, crawl space or other areas
inside the building.
M1507.3 Whole-house mechanical ventilation system.
Whole-house mechanical ventilation systems shall be
designed in accordance with Sections Ml 507.3.1 through
M1507.3.3.
M1507.3.1 System design. The whole-house ventilation
system shall consist of one or more supply or exhaust fans,
or a combination of such, and associated ducts and con-
trols. Local exhaust or supply fans are permitted to serve
as such a system. Outdoor air ducts connected to the return
side of an air handler shall be considered to provide supply
ventilation.
M1507.3.2 System controls. The whole-house mechani-
cal ventilation system shall be provided with controls that
enable manual override.
M1507.3.3 Mechanical ventilation rate. The whole-
house mechanical ventilation system shall provide outdoor
air at a continuous rate of not less than that determined in
accordance with Table M1507.3.3(l).
Exception: The whole-house mechanical ventilation
system is permitted to operate intermittently where the
system has controls that enable operation for not less
than 25-percent of each 4-hour segment and the ventila-
tion rate prescribed in Table M1507.3.3(l) is multiplied
by the factor determined in accordance with Table
Ml 507.3.3(2).
M1S07.4 Local exhaust rates. Local exhaust systems shall
be designed to have the capacity to exhaust the minimum air
flow rate determined in accordance with Table Ml 507.4.
TABLE M1507.4
MINIMUM REQUIRED LOCAL EXHAUST RATES FOR
ONE- AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS
AREA TO BE EXHAUSTED
Kitchens
Bathrooms-Toilet Rooms
EXHAUST RATES
100 cfm intermittent or 25 cfm contin-
uous
Mechanical exhaust capacity of 50 cfm
intermittent or 20 cfm continuous
For SI: 1 cubic foot per minute = 0.00047 1 9 m7s.
CONT1
NUOUS WHOLE-HOUS
TABLE M
E MECHANICAL VENT
1507.3.3(1)
ILATION SYSTEM AIRFLOW RATE REQUIREMENTS
DWELLING UNIT
FLOOR AREA
(square feet)
NUMBER OF BEDROOMS
0-1 1 2 -3 ! 4-5 | 6-7 |
>7
Airflow in CFM
< 1,500
30
45
60
75
90
1,501-3,000
45
60
75
90
105
3,001-4,500
60
75
90
105
120
4,501-6,000
75
90
105
120
135
6,001-7,500
90
105
120
135
150
r > 7,500
105
120
135
150
165
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0
>29 m\ 1 cubic foot ner m
nntfi -nnnruTio m 3 /
TABLE M1 507.3.3(2)
INTERMITTENT WHOLE-HOUSE MECHANICAL VENTILATION RATE FACTORS* b
RUN-TIME PERCENTAGE IN EACH 4-HOUR
SEGMENT
Factor 1 '
25%
33%
50%
66%
1.5
a. For ventilation system run time values between those given, the factors are permitted to be determined by interpolation
b. Extrapolation beyond the table is prohibited.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
75%
1 .3
1 00%
1.0
509
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
51
CHAPTER 16
SECTION M1 601
DUCT CONSTRUCTION
M1601.1 Duct design. Duct systems serving heating, cooling
and ventilation equipment shall be installed in accordance
with the provisions of this section and ACCA Manual D or
other approved methods.
M1601.1.1 Above-ground duct systems. Above-ground
duct systems shall conform to the following:
1. Equipment connected to duct systems shall be
designed to limit discharge air temperature to a max-
imum of 250°F(121°C).
2. Factory-made air ducts shall be constructed of Class
or Class 1 materials as designated in Table
M1601. 1.1(1).
3. Fibrous duct construction shall conform to the
SMACNA Fibrous Glass Duct Construction Stan-
dards or NAIMA Fibrous Glass Duct Construction
Standards.
4. Minimum thickness of metal duct material shall be
as listed in Table M1601. 1.1(2). Galvanized steel
shall conform to ASTM A 653. Metallic ducts shall
be fabricated in accordance with SMACNA Duct
Construction Standards Metal and Flexible.
5. Use of gypsum products to construct return air ducts
or plenums is permitted, provided that the air tem-
perature does not exceed 125°F (52°C) and exposed
surfaces are not subject to condensation.
6. Duct systems shall be constructed of materials hav-
ing a flame spread index not greater than 200.
7. Stud wall cavities and the spaces between solid floor
joists to be used as air plenums shall comply with
the following conditions:
7.1. These cavities or spaces shall not be used as
a plenum for supply air.
7.2. These cavities or spaces shall not be part of a
required fire-resistance-rated assembly.
7.3. Stud wall cavities shall not convey air from
more than one floor level.
7.4. Stud wall cavities and joist-space plenums
shall be isolated from adjacent concealed
spaces by tight-fitting fireblocking in accor-
dance with Section R602.8.
7.5. Stud wall cavities in the outside walls of
building envelope assemblies shall not be
utilized as air plenums.
TABLE M1 601.1.1(1)
CLASSIFICATION OF FACTORY-MADE AIR DUCTS
DUCT CLASS
MAXIMUM FLAME SPREAD INDEX
I
25
M 1601.1.2 Underground duct systems. Underground
duct systems shall be constructed of approved concrete,
clay, metal or plastic. The maximum duct temperature for
plastic ducts shall not be greater than 1 50°F (66°C). Metal
ducts shall be protected from corrosion in an approved
manner or shall be completely encased in concrete not less
than 2 inches (51 mm) thick. Nonmetallic ducts shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installa-
tion instructions. Plastic pipe and fitting materials shall
conform to cell classification 12454-B of ASTM D 1248
or ASTM D 1784 and external loading properties of
ASTM D 2412. All ducts shall slope to an accessible point
for drainage. Where encased in concrete, ducts shall be
sealed and secured prior to any concrete being poured.
Metallic ducts having an approved protective coating and
nonmetallic ducts shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's installation instructions.
M1601.2 Factory-made ducts. Factory-made air ducts or
duct material shall be approved for the use intended, and shall
be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installa-
TABLE M1601. 1.1(2)
GAGES OF METAL DUCTS AND PLENUMS USED FOR HEATING OR COOLING
DUCT SIZE
GALVANIZED
ALUMINUM
Minimum Thickness
(inches)
Equivalent Galvanized
Gage No.
Minimum Thickness
(inches)
Round ducts and enclosed rectangular ducts
14 inches or less
16 and 18 inches
20 inches and over
Exposed rectangular ducts
14 inches or
Over 14° inches
0.0157
0.0187
0.0236
0.0157
0.0187
28
26
24
28
26
0.0145
0.018
0.023
0.0145
0.018
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. For duct gages and reinforcement requirements at static pressures of '/, inch, 1 inch and 2 inches w.g., SMACNA Duct Construction Standard, Tables 2-1;
2-2 and 2-3 shall apply.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
511
DUCT SYSTEMS
tion instructions. Each portion of a factory-made air duct sys-
tem shall bear a listing and label indicating compliance with
UL 181andUL181AorUL181B.
M1601.2.1 Vibration isolators. Vibration isolators
installed between mechanical equipment and metal ducts
shall be fabricated from approved materials and shall not
exceed 10 inches (254 mm) in length.
M1601.3 Duct insulation materials. Duct insulation materi-
als shall conform to the following requirements:
1. Duct coverings and linings, including adhesives where
used, shall have a flame spread index not higher than
25, and a smoke-developed index not over 50 when
tested in accordance with ASTM E 84 or UL 723, using
the specimen preparation and mounting procedures of
ASTM E 2231.
Exception: Spray application of polyurethane foam
to the exterior of ducts in attics and crawl spaces
shall be permitted subject to all of the following:
1. The flame spread index, is not greater than 25
and the smoke-developed index is not greater
than 450 at the specified installed thickness.
2. The foam plastic is protected in accordance
with the ignition barrier requirements of Sec-
tions R316.5.3 and R316.5.4.
3. The foam plastic complies with the require-
ments of Section R316.
2. Duct coverings and linings shall not flame, glow, smol-
der or smoke when tested in accordance with ASTM C
41 1 at the temperature to which they are exposed in ser-
vice. The test temperature shall not fall below 250°F
(121 °C). Coverings and linings shall be listed and
labeled.
3. External duct insulation and factory-insulated flexible
ducts shall be legibly printed or identified at intervals
not longer than 36 inches (914 mm) with the name of
the manufacturer, the thermal resistance /?-value at the
specified installed thickness and the flame spread and
smoke-developed indexes of the composite materials.
Spray polyurethane foam manufacturers shall provide
the same product information and properties, at the
nominal installed thickness, to the customer in writing
at the time of foam application. All duct insulation
product /^-values shall be based on insulation only,
excluding air films, vapor retarders or other duct com-
ponents, and shall be based on tested C-values at 75°F
(24°C) mean temperature at the installed thickness, in
accordance with recognized industry procedures. The
installed thickness of duct insulation used to determine
its 7?-value shall be determined as follows:
3.1. For duct board, duct liner and factory-made
rigid ducts not normally subjected to compres-
sion, the nominal insulation thickness shall be
used.
3.2. For ductwrap, the installed thickness shall be
assumed to be 75 percent (25-percent compres-
sion) of nominal thickness.
3.3. For factory-made flexible air ducts, The
installed thickness shall be determined by divid-
ing the difference between the actual outside
diameter and nominal inside diameter by two.
3.4. For spray polyurethane foam, the aged R- value
per inch measured in accordance with recog-
nized industry standards shall be provided to the
customer in writing at the time of foam applica-
tion. In addition, the total 7?-value for the nomi-
nal application thickness shall be provided.
M1601.4 Installation. Duct installation shall comply with
Sections M1601.4.1 through M1601.4.7.
M1601.4.1 Joints, seams and connections. All longitudal
and transverse joints, seams and connections in metallic
and nonmetallic ducts shall be constructed as specified in
SMACNA HVAC Duct Construction Standards— Metal
and Flexible and NAIMA Fibrous Glass Duct Construc-
tion Standards. All joints, longitudinal and transverse
seams, and connections in ductwork shall be securely fas-
tened and sealed with welds, gaskets, mastics (adhesives),
mastic-plus-embedded-fabric systems or tapes.
Closure systems used to seal flexible air ducts and flexi-
ble air connectors shall comply with UL 1 81 B and shall be
marked "181 B-FX" for pressure-sensitive tape or "181 B-
M" for mastic. Duct connections to flanges of air distribu-
tion system equipment shall be sealed and mechanically
fastened. Mechanical fasteners for use with flexible non-
metallic air ducts shall comply with UL 1 8 IB and shall be
marked 181B-C. Crimp joints for round metallic ducts
shall have a contact lap of not less than 1 inch (25.4 mm)
and shall be mechanically fastened by means of not less
than three sheet-metal screws or rivets equally spaced
around the joint.
Closure systems used to seal metal ductwork shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions. Round metallic ducts shall be mechanically fastened
by means of at least three sheet metal screws or rivets
spaced equally around the joint. Unlisted duct tape shall
not be permitted as a sealant on any duct.
Exceptions:
1 . Spray polyurethane foam shall be permitted to be
applied without additional joint seals.
2. Where a duct connection is made that is partially
inaccessible, three screws or rivets shall be
equally spaced on the exposed portion of the joint
so as to prevent a hinge effect.
3. Continuously welded and locking-type longitudi-
nal joints and seams in ducts operating at static
pressures less than 2 inches of water column (500
Pa) pressure classification shall not require addi-
tional closure systems.
M1601.4.2 Plastic duct joints. Joints between plastic
ducts and plastic fittings shall be made in accordance with
the manufacturer's installation instructions.
M1601.4.3 Support. Metal ducts shall be supported by
'/,-inch-wide (13 mm) 18-gage metal straps or 12-gage
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
DUCT SYSTEMS
galvanized wire at intervals not exceeding 10 feet (3048
mm) or other approved means. Nonmetallic ducts shall be
supported in accordance with the manufacturer's installa-
tion instructions.
M1601.4.4 Fireblocking. Duct installations shall be fire-
blocked in accordance with Section R602.8.
M1601.4.5 Duct insulation. Duct insulation shall be
installed in accordance with the following requirements:
1 . A vapor retarder having a maximum permeance of
0.05 perm [2.87 ng/(s • m 2 • Pa)] in accordance with
ASTM E 96, or aluminum foil with a minimum
thickness of 2 mils (0.05 mm), shall be installed on
the exterior of insulation on cooling supply ducts
that pass through unconditioned spaces conducive to
condensation except where the insulation is spray
polyurethane foam with a maximum water vapor
permeance of 3 perm per inch [1722 ng/(s • m 2 • Pa)]
at the installed thickness.
2. Exterior duct systems shall be protected against the
elements.
3. Duct coverings shall not penetrate a fireblocked wall
or floor.
M1601.4.6 Factory-made air ducts. Factory-made air
ducts shall not be installed in or on the ground, in tile or
metal pipe, or within masonry or concrete.
M1601.4.7 Duct separation. Ducts shall be installed with
at least 4 inches (102 mm) separation from earth except
where they meet the requirements of Section Ml 60 1.1. 2.
M1601.4.8 Ducts located in garages. Ducts in garages
shall comply with the requirements of Section R302.5.2.
M1601.4.9 Flood hazard areas. In flood hazard areas as
established by Table R301.2(l), duct systems shall be
located or installed in accordance with Section R322.1.6.
M1601.5 Under-floor plenums. Under-floor plenums shall
be prohibited in new structures. Modification or repairs to
under-floor plenums in existing structures shall conform to
the requirements of this section.
M1601.5.1 General. The space shall be cleaned of loose
combustible materials and scrap, and shall be tightly
enclosed. The ground surface of the space shall be covered
with a moisture barrier having a minimum thickness of 4
mils (0.1 mm). Plumbing waste cleanouts shall not be
located within the space.
Exception: Plumbing waste cleanouts shall be permit-
ted to be located in unvented crawl spaces that receive
conditioned air in accordance with Section R408.3.
M1601.5.2 Materials. The under-floor space, including
the sidewall insulation, shall be formed by materials hav-
ing flame spread index values not greater than 200 when
tested in accordance with ASTM E 84 or UL 723.
M1601.5.3 Furnace connections. A duct shall extend
from the furnace supply outlet to not less than 6 inches
(152 mm) below the combustible framing. This duct shall
comply with the provisions of Section M1601.1. A non-
combustible receptacle shall be installed below any floor
opening into the plenum in accordance with the following
requirements:
1 . The receptacle shall be securely suspended from the
floor members and shall not be more than 1 8 inches
(457 mm) below the floor opening.
2. The area of the receptacle shall extend 3 inches (76
mm) beyond the opening on all sides.
3. The perimeter of the receptacle shall have a vertical
lip at least 1 inch (25 mm) high at the open sides.
M1601.5.4 Access. Access to an under-floor plenum shall
be provided through an opening in the floor with mini-
mum dimensions of 18 inches by 24 inches (457 mm by
610 mm).
Ml 601. 5.5 Furnace controls. The furnace shall be
equipped with an automatic control that will start the air-
circulating fan when the air in the furnace bonnet reaches a
temperature not higher than 150°F (66°C). The furnace
shall additionally be equipped with an approved automatic
control that limits the outlet air temperature to 200°F
(93°C).
M1601.6 Independent garage HVAC systems. Furnaces
and air-handling systems that supply air to living spaces shall
not supply air to or return air from a garage.
SECTION M1602
RETURN AIR
M1602.1 Return air. Return air shall be taken from inside
the dwelling. Dilution of return air with outdoor air shall be
permitted.
M1602.2 Prohibited sources. Outdoor and return air for a
forced-air heating or cooling system shall not be taken from
the following locations:
1. Closer than 10 feet (3048 mm) to an appliance vent
outlet, a vent opening from a plumbing drainage system
or the discharge outlet of an exhaust fan, unless the out-
let is 3 feet (914 mm) above the outside air inlet.
2. Where flammable vapors are present; or where located
less than 10 feet (3048 mm) above the surface of any
abutting public way or driveway; or where located at
grade level by a sidewalk, street, alley or driveway.
3. A room or space, the volume of which is less than 25
percent of the entire volume served by the system.
Where connected by a permanent opening having an
area sized in accordance with ACCA Manual D, adjoin-
ing rooms or spaces shall be considered as a single
room or space for the purpose of determining the vol-
ume of the rooms or spaces.
Exception: The minimum volume requirement shall not
apply where the amount of return air taken from a room or
space is less than or equal to the amount of supply air
delivered to the room or space.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 65
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DUCT SYSTEMS
4. A closet, bathroom, toilet room, kitchen, garage, boiler
room, furnace room, unconditioned attic or other dwell-
ing unit.
Exception: Dedicated forced-air systems serving
only a garage shall not be prohibited from obtaining
return air from the garage.
5. A room or space containing a fuel-burning appliance
where such room or space serves as the sole source of
return air.
Exceptions:
1. The fuel-burning appliance is a direct- vent
appliance or an appliance not requiring a vent
in accordance with Section Ml 80 1.1 or Chap-
ter 24.
2. The room or space complies with the follow-
ing requirements:
2.1. The return air shall be taken from a
room or space having a volume
exceeding 1 cubic foot for each 10
Btu/h (9.6 L/W) of combined input
rating of all fuel-burning appliances
therein.
2.2. The volume of supply air discharged
back into the same space shall be
approximately equal to the volume of
return air taken from the space.
2.3. Return-air inlets shall not be located
within 10 feet (3048 mm) of a draft
hood in the same room or space or the
combustion chamber of any atmo-
spheric-burner appliance in the same
room or space.
3. Rooms or spaces containing solid-fuel burning
appliances, if return-air inlets are located not
less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from the firebox
of those appliances.
6. An unconditioned crawl space by means of direct con-
nection to the return side of a forced air system. Trans-
fer openings in the crawl space enclosure shall not be
prohibited.
M1602.3 Inlet opening protection. Outdoor air inlets shall
be covered with screens having openings that are not less
than V 4 inch (6.4 mm) and not greater than 7 2 inch (12.7 mm).
514
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 17
COMBUSTION All
SECTION M1701
GENERAL
M1701.1 Scope. Solid-fuel-burning appliances shall be pro-
vided with combustion air in accordance with the appliance
manufacturer's installation instructions. Oil-fired appliances
shall be provided with combustion air in accordance with
NFPA 31. The methods of providing combustion air in this
chapter do not apply to fireplaces, fireplace stoves and direct-
vent appliances. The requirements for combustion and dilu-
tion air for gas-fired appliances shall be in accordance with
Chapter 24.
| M1701.2 Opening location. In flood hazard areas as estab-
lished in Table R301.2(l), combustion air openings shall be
located at or above the elevation required in Section R322.2. 1
or R322.3.2.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE® 515
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 18
CHIMNEYS AND VENTS
SECTION M 1801
GENERAL
M1801.1 Venting required. Fuel-burning appliances shall
be vented to the outdoors in accordance with their listing and
label and manufacturer's installation instructions except
appliances listed and labeled for unvented use. Venting sys-
tems shall consist of approved chimneys or vents, or venting
assemblies that are integral parts of labeled appliances. Gas-
fired appliances shall be vented in accordance with Chapter
24.
M1801.2 Draft requirements. A venting system shall satisfy
the draft requirements of the appliance in accordance with
the manufacturer's installation instructions, and shall be con-
structed and installed to develop a positive flow to convey
combustion products to the outside atmosphere.
M1801.3 Existing chimneys and vents. Where an appliance
is permanently disconnected from an existing chimney or
vent, or where an appliance is connected to an existing chim-
ney or vent during the process of a new installation, the chim-
ney or vent shall comply with Sections M1801.3.1 through
M1801.3.4.
M1801.3.1 Size. The chimney or vent shall be resized as
necessary to control flue gas condensation in the interior
of the chimney or vent and to provide the appliance, or
appliances served, with the required draft. For the venting
of oil-fired appliances to masonry chimneys, the resizing
shall be done in accordance with NFPA 3 1 .
M1801.3.2 Flue passageways. The flue gas passageway
shall be free of obstructions and combustible deposits and
shall be cleaned if previously used for venting a solid- or
liquid-fuel-burning appliance or fireplace. The flue liner,
chimney inner wall or vent inner wall shall be continuous
and free of cracks, gaps, perforations, or other damage or
deterioration that would allow the escape of combustion
products, including gases, moisture and creosote.
M1801.3.3 Cleanout. Masonry chimneys shall be pro-
vided with a cleanout opening complying with Section
R1003.17.
M1801.3.4 Clearances. Chimneys and vents shall have
airspace clearance to combustibles in accordance with this
code and the chimney or vent manufacturer's installation
instructions.
Exception: Masonry chimneys equipped with a chim-
ney lining system tested and listed for installation in
chimneys in contact with combustibles in accordance
with UL 1777, and installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's instruction, shall not be required to
have a clearance between combustible materials and
exterior surfaces of the masonry chimney. Noncombus-
tible firestopping shall be provided in accordance with
this code.
M1801.4 Space around lining. The space surrounding a flue
lining system or other vent installed within a masonry chim-
ney shall not be used to vent any other appliance. This shall
not prevent the installation of a separate flue lining in accor-
dance with the manufacturer's installation instructions and
this code.
M1801.5 Mechanical draft systems. A mechanical draft
system shall be used only with appliances listed and labeled
for such use. Provisions shall be made to prevent the flow of
fuel to the equipment when the draft system is not operating.
Forced draft systems and all portions of induced draft sys-
tems under positive pressure during operation shall be
designed and installed to prevent leakage of flue gases into a
building.
M 1801. 6 Direct-vent appliances. Direct-vent appliances
shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's
installation instructions.
M1801.7 Support. Venting systems shall be adequately sup-
ported for the weight of the material used.
M1801.8 Duct penetrations. Chimneys, vents and vent con-
nectors shall not extend into or through supply and return air
ducts or plenums.
M1801.9 Fireblocking. Vent and chimney installations shall
be fireblocked in accordance with Section R602.8.
M1801.10 Unused openings. Unused openings in any vent-
ing system shall be closed or capped.
M1801.ll Multiple-appliance venting systems. Two or
more listed and labeled appliances connected to a common
natural draft venting system shall comply with the following
requirements:
1. Appliances that are connected to common venting sys-
tems shall be located on the same floor of the dwelling.
Exception: Engineered systems as provided for in
Section G2427.
2. Inlets to common venting systems shall be offset such
that no portion of an inlet is opposite another inlet.
3. Connectors serving appliances operating under a natu-
ral draft shall not be connected to any portion of a
mechanical draft system operating under positive pres-
sure.
M1801.12 Multiple solid fuel prohibited. A solid-fuel-
burning appliance or fireplace shall not connect to a chimney
passageway venting another appliance.
SECTION M1 802
VENT COMPONENTS
Ml 802.1 Draft hoods. Draft hoods shall be located in the
same room or space as the combustion air openings for the
appliances.
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CHIMNEYS AND VENTS
M 1802.2 Vent dampers. Vent dampers shall comply with
Sections M1802.2.1 and M1802.2.2.
M1802.2.1 Manually operated. Manually operated
dampers shall not be installed except in connectors or
chimneys serving solid-fuel-burning appliances.
M1802.2.2 Automatically operated. Automatically oper-
ated dampers shall conform to UL 17 and be installed in
accordance with the terms of their listing and label. The
installation shall prevent firing of the burner when the
damper is not opened to a safe position.
Ml 802.3 Draft regulators. Draft regulators shall be pro-
vided for oil-fired appliances that must be connected to a
chimney. Draft regulators provided for solid-fuel-burning
appliances to reduce draft intensity shall be installed and set
in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions.
M1802.3.1 Location. Where required, draft regulators
shall be installed in the same room or enclosure as the
appliance so that no difference in pressure will exist
between the air at the regulator and the combustion air
supply.
SECTION M1803
CHIMNEY AND VENT CONNECTORS
M1803.1 General. Connectors shall be used to connect fuel-
burning appliances to a vertical chimney or vent except
where the chimney or vent is attached directly to the appli-
ance.
M1803.2 Connectors for oil and solid fuel appliances.
Connectors for oil and solid-fuel-burning appliances shall be
constructed of factory-built chimney material, Type L vent
material or single-wall metal pipe having resistance to corro-
sion and heat and thickness not less than that of galvanized
steel as specified in Table M 1803.2.
TABLE WM 803.2
THICKNESS FOR SINGLE-WALL METAL PIPE CONNECTORS
DIAMETER OF
CONNECTOR (inches)
GALVANIZED SHEET
METAL GAGE
NUMBER
MINIMUM THICKNESS
(inch)
Less than 6
26
0.019
6 to 10
24
0.024
Over 10 through 16
22
0.029
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
M1803.3 Installation. Vent and chimney connectors shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation
instructions and within the space where the appliance is
located. Appliances shall be located as close as practical to
the vent or chimney. Connectors shall be as short and straight
as possible and installed with a slope of not less than 7 4 inch
(6 mm) rise per foot of run. Connectors shall be securely sup-
ported and joints shall be fastened with sheet metal screws or
rivets. Devices that obstruct the flow of flue gases shall not be
installed in a connector unless listed and labeled or approved
for such installations.
M1803.3.1 Floor, ceiling and wall penetrations. A chim-
ney connector or vent connector shall not pass through any
floor or ceiling. A chimney connector or vent connector
shall not pass through a wall or partition unless the con-
nector is listed and labeled for wall pass-through, or is
routed through a device listed and labeled for wall pass-
through and is installed in accordance with the conditions
of its listing and label. Connectors for oil-fired appliances
listed and labeled for Type L vents, passing through walls
or partitions shall be in accordance with the following:
1. Type L vent material for oil appliances shall be
installed with not less than listed and labeled clear-
ances to combustible material.
2. Single-wall metal pipe shall be guarded by a venti-
lated metal thimble not less than 4 inches (102 mm)
larger in diameter than the vent connector. A mini-
mum 6 inches (152 mm) of clearance shall be main-
tained between the thimble and combustibles.
Ml 803.3.2 Length. The horizontal run of an uninsulated
connector to a natural draft chimney shall not exceed 75
percent of the height of the vertical portion of the chimney
above the connector. The horizontal run of a listed connec-
tor to a natural draft chimney shall not exceed 100 percent
of the height of the vertical portion of the chimney above
the connector.
M1803.3.3 Size. A connector shall not be smaller than the
flue collar of the appliance.
Exception: Where installed in accordance with the
appliance manufacturer's installation instructions.
M1803.3.4 Clearance. Connectors shall be installed with
clearance to combustibles as set forth in Table Ml 803.3.4.
Reduced clearances to combustible materials shall be in
accordance with Table M1306.2 and Figure M1306.1.
TABLE M 1803.3.4
CHIMNEY AND VENT CONNECTOR CLEARANCES
TO COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS"
TYPE OF CONNECTOR
MINIMUM
CLEARANCE
(inches)
Single-wall metal pipe connectors:
Oil and solid-fuel appliances
Oil appliances listed for use with Type L vents
18
9
Type L vent piping connectors:
Oil and solid-fuel appliances
Oil appliances listed for use with Type L vents
9
3 b
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. These minimum clearances apply to unlisted single-wall chimney and
vent connectors. Reduction of required clearances is permitted as in Table
Ml 306.2.
b. When listed Type L vent piping is used, the clearance shall be in
accordance with the vent listing.
M1803.3.5 Access. The entire length of a connector shall
be accessible for inspection, cleaning and replacement.
M1803.4 Connection to fireplace flue. Connection of appli-
ances to chimney flues serving fireplaces shall comply with
Sections Ml 803.4.1 through Ml 803.4.4.
M1803.4.1 Closure and accessibility. A noncombustible
seal shall be provided below the point of connection to
prevent entry of room air into the flue. Means shall be pro-
vided for access to the flue for inspection and cleaning.
518
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHIMNEYS AND VENTS
M1803.4.2 Connection to factory-built fireplace flue. A
different appliance shall not be connected to a flue serving
a factory-built fireplace unless the appliance is specifi-
cally listed for such an installation. The connection shall
be made in conformance with the appliance manufac-
turer's instructions.
M1803.4.3 Connection to masonry fireplace flue. A
connector shall extend from the appliance to the flue serv-
ing a masonry fireplace to convey the flue gases directly
into the flue. The connector shall be accessible or remov-
able for inspection and cleaning of both the connector and
the flue. Listed direct-connection devices shall be installed
in accordance with their listing.
Ml 803.4.4 Size of flue. The size of the fireplace flue shall
be in accordance with Section Ml 805.3.1.
SECTION Ml 804
VENTS
M1804.1 Type of vent required. Appliances shall be pro-
vided with a listed and labeled, venting system as set forth in
Table M1804.1.
TABLE M1804.1
VENT SELECTION CHART
VENT TYPES
APPLIANCE TYPES
Type L oil vents
Oil-burning appliances listed and labeled
for venting with Type L vents
Pellet vents
Pellet fuel-burning appliances listed and
labeled for use with pellet vents
M1804.2 Termination. Vent termination shall comply with
Sections M1804.2.1 through M1804.2.6.
M1804.2.1 Through the roof. Vents passing through a
roof shall extend through flashing and terminate in accor-
dance with the manufacturer's installation requirements.
M1804.2.2 Decorative shrouds. Decorative shrouds shall
not be installed at the termination of vents except where
the shrouds are listed and labeled for use with the specific
venting system and are installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's installation instructions.
M1804.2.3 Natural draft appliances. Vents for natural
draft appliances shall terminate at least 5 feet (1524 mm)
above the highest connected appliance outlet, and natural
draft gas vents serving wall furnaces shall terminate at an
elevation at least 12 feet (3658 mm) above the bottom of
the furnace.
M1804.2.4 Type L vent. Type L venting systems shall
conform to UL 641 and shall terminate with a listed and
labeled cap in accordance with the vent manufacturer's
installation instructions not less than 2 feet (610 mm)
above the roof and not less than 2 feet (610 mm) above
any portion of the building within 10 feet (3048 mm).
M1804.2.5 Direct vent terminations. Vent terminals for
direct-vent appliances shall be installed in accordance
with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
M1804.2.6 Mechanical draft systems. Mechanical draft
systems shall comply with UL 378 and shall be installed in
accordance with their listing, the manufacturer's instruc-
tions and, except for direct-vent appliances, the following
requirements:
1. The vent terminal shall be located not less than 3
feet (914 mm) above a forced air inlet located within
10 feet (3048 mm).
2. The vent terminal shall be located not less than 4
feet (1219 mm) below, 4 feet (1219 mm) horizon-
tally from, or 1 foot (305 mm) above any door, win-
dow or gravity air inlet into a dwelling.
3. The vent termination point shall not be located
closer than 3 feet (914 mm) to an interior corner
formed by two walls perpendicular to each other.
4. The bottom of the vent terminal shall be located at
least 12 inches (305 mm) above finished ground
level.
5. The vent termination shall not be mounted directly
above or within 3 feet (914 mm) horizontally of an
oil tank vent or gas meter.
6. Power exhauster terminations shall be located not
less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from lot lines and adja-
cent buildings.
7. The discharge shall be directed away from the build-
ing.
M1804.3 Installation. Type L and pellet vents shall be
installed in accordance with the terms of their listing and
label and the manufacturer's installation instructions.
M1804.3.1 Size of single-appliance venting systems. An
individual vent for a single appliance shall have a cross-
sectional area equal to or greater than the area of the con-
nector to the appliance, but not less than 7 square inches
(4515 mm 2 ) except where the vent is an integral part of a
listed and labeled appliance.
SECTION M1 805
MASONRY AND FACTORY-BUILT CHIMNEYS
M1805.1 General. Masonry and factory-built chimneys shall
be built and installed in accordance with Sections R1003 and
R1005, respectively. Flue lining for masonry chimneys shall
comply with Section Rl 003.1 1.
M1805.2 Masonry chimney connection. A chimney con-
nector shall enter a masonry chimney not less than 6 inches
(152 mm) above the bottom of the chimney. Where it is not
possible to locate the connector entry at least 6 inches (152
mm) above the bottom of the chimney flue, a cleanout shall
be provided by installing a capped tee in the connector next to
the chimney. A connector entering a masonry chimney shall
extend through, but not beyond, the wall and shall be flush
with the inner face of the liner. Connectors, or thimbles
where used, shall be firmly cemented into the masonry.
M1805.3 Size of chimney flues. The effective area of a natu-
ral draft chimney flue for one appliance shall be not less than
the area of the connector to the appliance. The area of chim-
ney flues connected to more than one appliance shall be not
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
519
CHIMNEYS AND VENTS
less than the area of the largest connector plus 50 percent of
the areas of additional chimney connectors.
Exception: Chimney flues serving oil-fired appliances
sized in accordance with NFPA 31 .
M 1805.3.1 Size of chimney flue for solid-fuel appliance.
Except where otherwise specified in the manufacturer's
installation instructions, the cross-sectional area of a flue
connected to a solid-fuel-burning appliance shall be not
less than the area of the flue collar or connector, and not
larger than three times the area of the flue collar.
520 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
CHAPTER 19
SPECIAL APPLIANCES, EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS
SECTION M1901
RANGES AND OVENS
M1901.1 Clearances. Freestanding or built-in ranges shall
have a vertical clearance above the cooking top of not less
than 30 inches (762 mm) to unprotected combustible mate-
rial. Reduced clearances are permitted in accordance with the
listing and labeling of the range hoods or appliances. The
installation of a listed and labeled cooking appliance or
microwave oven over a listed and labeled cooking appliance
shall be in accordance with Section M1504.1. The clearances
for a domestic open-top broiler unit shall be in accordance
with Section Ml 505.1.
M1901.2 Cooking appliances. Cooking appliances shall be
listed and labeled for household use and shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. The installa-
tion shall not interfere with combustion air or access for oper-
ation and servicing. Electric cooking appliances shall comply
with UL 1026 or UL 858. Solid-fuel -fired fireplace stoves
shall comply with UL 737.
Ml 901.3 Prohibited location. Cooking appliances designed,
tested, listed and labeled for use in commercial occupancies
shall not be installed within dwelling units or within any area
where domestic cooking operations occur.
SECTION M1904
GASEOUS HYDROGEN SYSTEMS
M1904.1 Installation. Gaseous hydrogen systems shall be
installed in accordance with the applicable requirements of
Sections M1307.4 and M1903.1 and the International Fuel
Gas Code, the International Fire Code and the International
Building Code.
SECTION M1 902
SAUNA HEATERS
M1902.1 Locations and protection. Sauna heaters shall be
protected from accidental contact by persons with a guard of
material having a low thermal conductivity, such as wood.
The guard shall have no substantial effect on the transfer of
heat from the heater to the room.
Ml 902.2 Installation. Sauna heaters shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Sauna heaters shall comply with UL 875.
M1902.3 Combustion air. Combustion air and venting for a
nondirect vent-type heater shall be provided in accordance
with Chapters 17 and 18, respectively.
M1902.4 Controls. Sauna heaters shall be equipped with a
thermostat that will limit room temperature to not greater
than 194°F (90°C). Where the thermostat is not an integral
part of the heater, the heat-sensing element shall be located
within 6 inches (152 mm) of the ceiling.
SECTION M1903
STATIONARY FUEL CELL POWER PLANTS
M 1903.1 General. Stationary fuel cell power plants having a
power output not exceeding 1,000 kW, shall comply with
ANSI/CSA America FC 1 and shall be installed in accor-
dance with the manufacturer's instructions and NFPA 853.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
521
522 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 20
BOILERS AND WATER HEATERS
SECTION M2001
BOILERS
M2001.1 Installation. In addition to the requirements of this
code, the installation of boilers shall conform to the manufac-
turer's instructions. The manufacturer's rating data, the name-
plate and operating instructions of a permanent type shall be
attached to the boiler. Boilers shall have all controls set,
adjusted and tested by the installer. A complete control dia-
gram together with complete boiler operating instructions
shall be furnished by the installer. Solid- and liquid-fuel-
burning boilers shall be provided with combustion air as
required by Chapter 17.
M2001.1.1 Standards. Oil-fired boilers and their control
systems shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL
726. Electric boilers and their control systems shall be
| listed in accordance with UL 834. Solid-fuel-fired boilers
shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 2523.
Boilers shall be designed and constructed in accordance
with the requirements of ASME CSD- 1 and as applicable,
the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Sections I
and IV. Gas-fired boilers shall conform to the require-
ments listed in Chapter 24.
M2001.2 Clearance. Boilers shall be installed in accordance
with their listing and label.
M2001.3 Valves. Every boiler or modular boiler shall have a
shutoff valve in the supply and return piping. For multiple
boiler or multiple modular boiler installations, each boiler or
modular boiler shall have individual shutoff valves in the
supply and return piping.
Exception: Shutoff valves are not required in a system
having a single low-pressure steam boiler.
| M2001.4 Flood-resistant installation. In flood hazard areas
established in Table R301.2(l), boilers, water heaters and
their control systems shall be located or installed in accor-
dance with Section R322.1.6.
SECTION M2002
OPERATING AND SAFETY CONTROLS
M2002.1 Safety controls. Electrical and mechanical operat-
ing and safety controls for boilers shall be listed and labeled.
M2002.2 Hot water boiler gauges. Every hot water boiler
shall have a pressure gauge and a temperature gauge, or com-
bination pressure and temperature gauge. The gauges shall
indicate the temperature and pressure within the normal range
of the system's operation.
M2002.3 Steam boiler gauges. Every steam boiler shall
have a water-gauge glass and a pressure gauge. The pressure
gauge shall indicate the pressure within the normal range of
the system's operation. The gauge glass shall be installed so
that the midpoint is at the normal water level.
M2002.4 Pressure-relief valve. Boilers shall be equipped
with pressure-relief valves with minimum rated capacities for
the equipment served. Pressure-relief valves shall be set at the
maximum rating of the boiler. Discharge shall be piped to
drains by gravity to within 1 8 inches (457 mm) of the floor or
to an open receptor.
M2002.5 Boiler low-water cutoff. All steam and hot water
boilers shall be protected with a low-water cutoff control. The
low-water cutoff shall automatically stop the combustion
operation of the appliance when the water level drops below
the lowest safe water level as established by the manufac-
turer.
SECTION M2003
EXPANSION TANKS
M2003.1 General. Hot water boilers shall be provided with
expansion tanks. Nonpressurized expansion tanks shall be
securely fastened to the structure or boiler and supported to
carry twice the weight of the tank filled with water. Provi-
sions shall be made for draining nonpressurized tanks without
emptying the system.
M2003.1.1 Pressurized expansion tanks. Pressurized
expansion tanks shall be consistent with the volume and
capacity of the system. Tanks shall be capable of with-
standing a hydrostatic test pressure of two and one-half
times the allowable working pressure of the system.
M2003.2 Minimum capacity. The minimum capacity of
expansion tanks shall be determined from Table M2003.2.
TABLE M2003.2
EXPANSION TANK MINIMUM CAPACITY 8
FOR FORCED HOT-WATER SYSTEMS
SYSTEM VOLUME"
(gallons)
PRESSURIZED
DIAPHRAGM TYPE
NONPRESSURIZED
TYPE
10
1.0
1.5
20
1.5
3.0
30
2.5
4.5
40
3.0
6.0
50
4.0
7.5
60
5.0
9.0
70
6.0
10.5
80
6.5
12.0
90
7.5
13.5
100
8.0
15.0
For SI: 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 pound per square inch gauge = 6.895 kPa,
°C = [(°F)-32]/1.8.
a. Based on average water temperature of 195°F (91°C), fill pressure of 12
psig and a maximum operating pressure of 30 psig.
b. System volume includes volume of water in boiler, convectors and piping,
not including the expansion tank.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
523
BOILERS AND WATER HEATERS
SECTION M2004
WATER HEATERS USED FOR SPACE HEATING
M2004.1 General. Water heaters used to supply both potable
hot water and hot water for space heating shall be installed in
accordance with this chapter, Chapter 24, Chapter 28 and the
manufacturer's installation instructions.
SECTION M2005
WATER HEATERS
M200S.1 General. Water heaters shall be installed in accor-
dance with the manufacturer's instructions and the require-
ments of this code. Water heaters installed in an attic shall
comply with the requirements of Section M1305.1.3. Gas-
fired water heaters shall comply with the requirements in
Chapter 24. Domestic electric water heaters shall comply
with UL 174. Oiled-fired water heaters shall comply with UL
732. Thermal solar water heaters shall comply with Chapter
23 and UL 174. Solid-fuel-fired water heaters shall comply
with UL 2523.
M2005.2 Prohibited locations. Fuel-fired water heaters shall
not be installed in a room used as a storage closet. Water
heaters located in a bedroom or bathroom shall be installed in
a sealed enclosure so that combustion air will not be taken
from the living space. Installation of direct- vent water heaters
within an enclosure is not required.
M2005.2.1 Water heater access. Access to water heaters
that are located in an attic or underfloor crawl space is per-
mitted to be through a closet located in a sleeping room or
bathroom where ventilation of those spaces is in accor-
dance with this code.
M 2005.3 Electric water heaters. Electric water heaters shall
also be installed in accordance with the applicable provisions
of Chapters 34 through 43.
M2005.4 Supplemental water-heating devices. Potable
water heating devices that use refrigerant-to-water heat
exchangers shall be approved and installed in accordance
with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
SECTION M2006
POOL HEATERS
M2006.1 General. Pool and spa heaters shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Oil-fired pool heaters shall comply with UL 726. Electric
pool and spa heaters shall comply with UL 1261.
M2006.2 Clearances. In no case shall the clearances inter-
fere with combustion air, draft hood or flue terminal relief, or
accessibility for servicing.
M2006.3 Temperature-limiting devices. Pool heaters shall
have temperature-relief valves.
M2006.4 Bypass valves. Where an integral bypass system is
not provided as a part of the pool heater, a bypass line and
valve shall be installed between the inlet and outlet piping for
use in adjusting the flow of water through the heater.
524
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 21
HYDRONIC PIPING
SECTION M21 01
HYDRONIC PIPING SYSTEMS INSTALLATION
M2101.1 General. Hydremic piping shall conform to Table
M2 101.1. Approved piping, valves, fittings and connections
shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's
installation instructions. Pipe and fittings shall be rated for
use at the operating temperature and pressure of the hydronic
system. Used pipe, fittings, valves or other materials shall be
free of foreign materials.
M2101.2 System drain down. Hydronic piping systems
shall be installed to permit draining of the system. Where the
system drains to the plumbing drainage system, the installa-
tion shall conform to the requirements of Chapters 25 through
32 of this code.
Exception: The buried portions of systems embedded
underground or under floors.
M2101.3 Protection of potable water. The potable water
system shall be protected from backflow in accordance with
the provisions listed in Section P2902.
M2101.4 Pipe penetrations. Openings through concrete or
masonry building elements shall be sleeved.
M2101.5 Contact with building material. A hydronic pip-
ing system shall not be in direct contact with any building
material that causes the piping material to degrade or corrode.
M2101.6 Drilling and notching. Wood-framed structural
members shall be drilled, notched or altered in accordance
with the provisions of Sections R502.8, R602.6, R602.6.1
and R802.7. Holes in load bearing members of cold-formed
steel light-frame construction shall be permitted only in
accordance with Sections R505.2.5, R603.2.5 and R804.2.5.
In accordance with the provisions of Sections R505.3.5,
R603.3.4 and R804.3.4, cutting and notching of flanges and
lips of load-bearing members of cold-formed steel light-
frame construction shall not be permitted. Structural insulated
panels (SIPs) shall be drilled and notched or altered in accor-
dance with the provisions of Section R61 3.
M2101.7 Prohibited tee applications. Fluid in the supply
side of a hydronic system shall not enter a tee fitting through
the branch opening.
M2101.8 Expansion, contraction and settlement. Piping
shall be installed so that piping, connections and equipment
shall not be subjected to excessive strains or stresses. Provi-
sions shall be made to compensate for expansion, contraction,
shrinkage and structural settlement.
M2101.9 Piping support. Hangers and supports shall be of
material of sufficient strength to support the piping, and shall
be fabricated from materials compatible with the piping
material. Piping shall be supported at intervals not exceeding
the spacing specified in Table M2101 .9.
TABLE M2101.9
HANGER SPACING INTERVALS
PIPING MATERIAL
MAXIMUM
HORIZONTAL
SPACING
(feet)
MAXIMUM
VERTICAL
SPACING
(feet)
ABS
4
10
CPVC < 1-inch pipe or tubing
3
5
CPVC > 1 7 4 inches
4
10
Copper or copper alloy pipe
12
10
Copper or copper alloy tubing
6
10
PB pipe or tubing
2.67
4
PEpipe or tubing
2.67
4
PEX tubing
2.67
4
PP < 1-inch pipe or tubing
2.67
4
PP> 17 4 inches
4
10
PVC
4
10
Steel pipe
12
15
Steel tubing
8
10
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.i
M2101.10 Tests. Hydronic piping shall be tested hydrostati-
cally at a pressure of not less than 100 pounds per square inch
(690 kPa) for a duration of not less than 15 minutes.
SECTION M2102
BASEBOARD CONVECTORS
M2102.1 General. Baseboard convectors shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Convectors shall be supported independently of the hydronic
piping.
SECTION M21 03
FLOOR HEATING SYSTEMS
M2103.1 Piping materials. Piping for embedment in con-
crete or gypsum materials shall be standard-weight steel pipe,
copper tubing, cross-linked polyethylene/aluminum/cross-
linked polyethylene (PEX-AL-PEX) pressure pipe, chlori-
nated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), polybutylene, cross-linked
polyethylene (PEX) tubing or polypropylene (PP) with a min-
imum rating of 100 psi at 180°F (690 kPa at 82°C).
M2103.2 Thermal barrier required. Radiant floor heating
systems shall have a thermal barrier in accordance with Sec-
tions M2103.2.1 through M2103.2.4.
Exception: Insulation shall not be required in engineered
systems where it can be demonstrated that the insulation
will decrease the efficiency or have a negative effect on
the installation.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
525
HYDRONIC PIPING
TABLE M21 01.1
HYDRONIC PIPING MATERIALS
MATERIAL
USE
CODE 8
STANDARD"
JOINTS
NOTES
Brass pipe
1
ASTM B 43
Brazed, welded, threaded, mechanical and
flanged fittings
Brass tubing
1
ASTM B 135
Brazed, soldered and mechanical fittings
Chlorinated poly (vinyl chloride)
(CPVC) pipe and tubing
1,2,3
ASTM D 2846
Solvent cement joints, compression joints
and threaded adapters
Copper pipe
1
ASTM B 42,
B302
Brazed, soldered and mechanical fittings
threaded, welded and flanged
Copper tubing (type K, L or M)
1,2
ASTM B 75,
B88,B251,
B306
Brazed, soldered and flared mechanical
fittings
Joints embedded in con-
crete
Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX)
1,2,3
ASTM F 876, F 877
(See PEX fittings)
Install in accordance with
manufacturer's instructions
Cross-linked polyethylene/
aluminum/cross-linked
polyethylene-(PEX-AL-PEX)
pressure pipe
1,2
ASTMF128lor
CAN/ CSA
B137.10
Mechanical, crimp/insert
Install in accordance with
manufacturer's instructions
PEX fittings
ASTM F 877
ASTM F 1807
ASTM F 1960
ASTM F 2098
ASTM F 2159
ASTM F 2735
Copper-crimp/insert fittings, cold expan-
sion fittings, stainless steel clamp, insert
fittings
Install in accordance with
manufacturer's instructions
Polybutylene (PB) pipe and tubing
1,2,3
ASTM D 3309
Heat-fusion, crimp/insert and compression
Joints in concrete shall be
heat-fused
Polyethylene (PE) pipe, tubing and
fittings (for ground source heat
pump loop systems)
1,2,4
ASTM D 2513
ASTM D 3350
ASTM D 2513
ASTM D 3035
ASTM D 2447
ASTM D 2683
ASTM F 1055
ASTM D 2837
ASTM D 3350
ASTM D 1693
Heat-fusion
Polyethylene/aluminum/polyethylene
(PE-AL-PE) pressure pipe
1,2,3
ASTM F 1282
CSAB 137.9
Mechanical, crimp/insert
Polypropylene (PP)
1, 2, 3
ISO 15874
ASTM F 2389
Heat- fusion joints, mechanical fittings,
threaded adapters, compression joints
Raised temperature polyethylene
(PE-RT)
1,2,3
ASTM F 2623
ASTM F 2769
Copper crimp/insert fitting stainless steel
clamp, insert fittings
Soldering fluxes
1
ASTM B 813
Copper tube joints
Steel pipe
1,2
ASTM A 53,
A 106
Brazed, welded, threaded, flanged and
mechanical fittings
Joints in concrete shall be
welded. Galvanized pipe
shall not be welded or
brazed.
Steel tubing
1
ASTM A 254
Mechanical fittings, welded
For SI: °C = [(°F)-32]/1.8.
a. Use code:
1 . Above ground.
2. Embedded in radiant systems.
3. Temperatures below 180°F only.
4. Low temperature (below 1 30°F) applications only.
| b. Standards as listed in Chapter 44.
526
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
HYDRONIC PIPING
M2103.2.1 Slab-on-grade installation. Radiant piping
used in slab-on-grade applications shall have insulating
materials having a minimum fi-value of 5 installed
beneath the piping.
M2103.2.2 Suspended floor installation. In suspended
floor applications, insulation shall be installed in the joist
bay cavity serving the heating space above and shall con-
sist of materials having a minimum lvalue of 1 1.
M2 103.2.3 Thermal break required. A thermal break
consisting of asphalt expansion joint materials or similar
insulating materials shall be provided at a point where a
heated slab meets a foundation wall or other conductive
slab.
M2103.2.4 Thermal barrier material marking. Insulat-
ing materials used in thermal barriers shall be installed so
that the manufacturer's i?-value mark is readily observable
upon inspection.
M2103.3 Piping joints. Piping joints that are embedded shall
be installed in accordance with the following requirements:
1. Steel pipe joints shall be welded.
2. Copper tubing shall be joined with brazing material
having a melting point exceeding 1,000°F (538°C).
3. Polybutylene pipe and tubing joints shall be installed
with socket-type heat-fused polybutylene fittings.
4. CPVC tubing shall be joined using solvent cement
joints.
5. Polypropylene pipe and tubing joints shall be installed
with socket-type heat-fused polypropylene fittings.
6. Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) tubing shall be joined
using cold expansion, insert or compression fittings.
M2103.4 Testing. Piping or tubing to be embedded shall be
tested by applying a hydrostatic pressure of not less than 100
psi (690 kPa). The pressure shall be maintained for 30 min-
utes, during which all joints shall be visually inspected for
leaks.
SECTION M21 04
LOW TEMPERATURE PIPING
M2104.1 Piping materials. Low temperature piping for
embedment in concrete or gypsum materials shall be as indi-
cated in Table M2 10 1.1.
M2104.2 Piping joints. Piping joints, other than (hose in
Section M2103.3, that are embedded shall comply with the
following requirements:
1. Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) tubing shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
2. Polyethylene tubing shall be installed with heat fusion
joints.
3. Polypropylene (PP) tubing shall be installed in accor-
dance with the manufacturer's instructions.
M2104.2.1 Polyethylene plastic pipe and tubing for
ground source heat pump loop systems. Joints between
polyethylene plastic pipe and tubing or fittings for ground
source heat pump loop systems shall be heat fusion joints
conforming to Section M2 104.2. 1.1, electrofusion joints
conforming to Section M2104.2.1.2 or stab-type insertion
joints conforming to Section M21 .04.2. 1.3.
M2 104.2.1.1 Heat-fusion joints. Joints shall be of the
socket-fusion, saddle-fusion or butt-fusion type, fabri-
cated in accordance with the piping manufacturer's
instructions. Joint surfaces shall be clean and free of
moisture. Joint surfaces shall be heated to melt temper-
atures and joined. The joint shall be undisturbed until
cool. Fittings shall be manufactured in accordance with
ASTM D 2683.
M2104.2.1.2 Electrofusion joints. Joint surfaces shall
be clean and free of moisture, and scoured to expose
virgin resin. Joint surfaces shall be heated to melt tem-
peratures for the period of time specified by the manu-
facturer. The joint shall be undisturbed until cool.
Fittings shall be manufactured in accordance with
ASTM F 1055.
M2104.2.1.3 Stab-type insert fittings. Joint surfaces
shall be clean and free of moisture. Pipe ends shall be
chamfered and inserted into the fitting to full depth. Fit-
tings shall be manufactured in accordance with ASTM
D2513.
M2104.3 Raised temperature polyethylene (PE-RT) plas-
tic tubing. Joints between raised temperature polyethylene
tubing and fittings shall conform to Sections M2104.3.1 and
M2104.3.2. Mechanical joints shall be installed in accordance
with the manufacturer's instructions.
M2104.3.1 Compression-type fittings. Where compres-
sion-type fittings include inserts and ferrules or O-rings,
the fittings shall be installed without omitting such inserts
and ferrules or O-rings.
M2104.3.2 PE-RT-to-metai connections. Solder joints in
a metal pipe shall not occur within 18 inches (457 mm) of
a transition from such metal pipe to PERT pipe.
M2104.4 Polyethylene/Aluminion/Polyethylene (PE-AL-
PE) pressure pipe. Joints between polyethylene/aluminum/
polyethylene pressure pipe and fittings shall conform to Sec-
tions M2104.4.1 and M2104.4.2. Mechanical joints shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
M2104.4.1 Compression-type fittings. Where compres-
sion-type fittings include inserts and ferrules or O-rings,
the fittings shall be installed without omitting such inserts
and ferrules or O-rings.
M2104.4.2 PE-AL-PE to metal connections. Solder
joints in a metal pipe shall not occur within 18 inches (457
mm) of a transition from such metal pipe to PE-AL-PE
pipe.
SECTION M21 05
GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMP SYSTEM LOOP
PIPING
M2105.1 Testing. The assembled loop system shall be pres-
sure tested with water at 100 psi (690 kPa) for 30 minutes
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
527
HYDRONIC PIPING
with no observed leaks before connection (header) trenches
are backfilled. Flow rates and pressure drops shall be com-
pared to calculated values. If actual flow rate or pressure drop
figures differ from calculated values by more than 10 percent,
the problem shall be identified and corrected.
528 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 22
SPECIAL PIPING AND STORAGE SYSTEMS
SECTION M22Q1
OIL TANKS
M2201.1 Materials. Supply tanks shall be listed and labeled
and shall conform to UL 58 for underground tanks and UL 80
for indoor tanks.
M2201.2 Above-ground tanks. The maximum amount of
fuel oil stored above ground or inside of a building shall be
660 gallons (2498 L). The supply tank shall be supported on
rigid noncombustible supports to prevent settling or shifting.
Exception: The storage of fuel oil, used for space or water
heating, above ground or inside buildings in quantities
exceeding 660 gallons (2498 L) shall comply with NFPA
31.
M220 1.2.1 Tanks within buildings. Supply tanks for use
inside of buildings shall be of such size and shape to per-
mit installation and removal from dwellings as whole
units. Supply tanks larger than 10 gallons (38 L) shall be
placed not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) from any fire or
flame either within or external to any fuel-burning appli-
M2201.2.2 Outside above-ground tanks. Tanks installed
outside above ground shall be a minimum of 5 feet (1524
mm) from an adjoining property line. Such tanks shall be
suitably protected from the weather and from physical
damage.
M2201.3 Underground tanks. Excavations for underground
tanks shall not undermine the foundations of existing struc-
tures. The clearance from the tank to the nearest wall of a
basement, pit or property line shall not be less than 1 foot
(305 mm). Tanks shall be set on and surrounded with noncor-
rosive inert materials such as clean earth, sand or gravel well
tamped in place. Tanks shall be covered with not less than 1
foot (305 mm) of earth. Corrosion protection shall be pro-
vided in accordance with Section M2203.7.
M2201.4 Multiple tanks. Cross connection of two supply
tanks shall be permitted in accordance with Section M2203.6.
M2201.5 Oil gauges. Inside tanks shall be provided with a
device to indicate when the oil in the tank has reached a pre-
determined safe level. Glass gauges or a gauge subject to
breakage that could result in the escape of oil from the tank
shall not be used. Liquid-level indicating gauges shall comply
with UL 180.
M2201.6 Flood-resistant installation. In flood hazard areas
as established by Table R301.2(l), tanks shall be installed at
or above the elevation required in Section R322.2.1 or
R322.3.2 or shall be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse
and lateral movement under conditions of the design flood.
M2201.7 Tanks abandoned or removed. Exterior above-
grade fill piping shall be removed when tanks are abandoned
or removed. Tank abandonment and removal shall be in
accordance with the International Fire Code.
SECTION M2202
OIL PIPING, FITTING AND CONNECTIONS
M2202.1 Materials. Piping shall consist of steel pipe, copper
tubing or steel tubing conforming to ASTM A 539. Alumi-
num tubing shall not be used between the fuel-oil tank and
the burner units.
M2202.2 Joints and fittings. Piping shall be connected with
standard fittings compatible with the piping material. Cast
iron fittings shall not be used for oil piping. Unions requiring
gaskets or packings, right or left couplings, and sweat fittings
employing solder having a melting point less than 1,000°F
(538°C) shall not be used for oil piping. Threaded joints and
connections shall be made tight with a lubricant or pipe
thread compound.
M2202.3 Flexible connectors. Flexible metallic hoses shall
be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 536 and shall be
installed in accordance with their listing and labeling and the
manufacturer's installation instructions. Connectors made
from combustible materials shall not be used inside of build-
ings or above ground outside of buildings.
SECTION M2203
INSTALLATION
M2203.1 General. Piping shall be installed in a manner to
avoid placing stresses on the piping, and to accommodate
expansion and contraction of the piping system.
M2203.2 Supply piping. Supply piping used in the installa-
tion of oil burners and appliances shall be not smaller than V 8 -
inch (9 mm) pipe or V 8 -inch (9 mm) outside diameter tubing.
Copper tubing and fittings shall be a minimum of Type L.
M2203.3 Fill piping. Fill piping shall terminate outside of
buildings at a point at least 2 feet (610 mm) from any build-
ing opening at the same or lower level. Fill openings shall be
equipped with a tight metal cover.
M2203.4 Vent piping. Vent piping shall be not smaller than
l7 4 -inch (32 mm) pipe. Vent piping shall be laid to drain
toward the tank without sags or traps in which the liquid can
collect. Vent pipes shall not be cross connected with fill
pipes, lines from burners or overflow lines from auxiliary
tanks. The lower end of a vent pipe shall enter the tank
through the top and shall extend into the tank not more than 1
inch (25 mm).
M2203.5 Vent termination. Vent piping shall terminate out-
side of buildings at a point not less than 2 feet (610 mm),
measured vertically or horizontally, from any building open-
ing. Outer ends of vent piping shall terminate in a weather-
proof cap or fitting having an unobstructed area at least equal
to the cross-sectional area of the vent pipe, and shall be
located sufficiently above the ground to avoid being
obstructed by snow and ice.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
529
SPECIAL PIPING AND STORAGE SYSTEMS
M2203.6 Cross connection of tanks. Cross connection of
two supply tanks, not exceeding 660 gallons (2498 L) aggre-
gate capacity, with gravity flow from one tank to another,
shall be acceptable providing that the two tanks are on the
same horizontal plane.
M2203.7 Corrosion protection. Underground tanks and bur-
ied piping shall be protected by corrosion-resistant coatings
or special alloys or fiberglass-reinforced plastic.
SECTION M2204
OIL PUMPS AND VALVES
M2204.1 Pumps. Oil pumps shall be positive displacement
types that automatically shut off the oil supply when stopped.
Automatic pumps shall be listed and labeled in accordance
with UL 343 and shall be installed in accordance with their
listing.
M2204.2 Shutoff valves. A readily accessible manual shut-
off valve shall be installed between the oil supply tank and
the burner. Where the shutoff valve is installed in the dis-
charge line of an oil pump, a pressure-relief valve shall be
incorporated to bypass or return surplus oil. Valves shall
comply with UL 842.
M2204.3 Maximum pressure. Pressure at the oil supply
inlet to an appliance shall be not greater than 3 pounds per
square inch (20.7 kPa).
M2204.4 Relief valves. Fuel-oil lines incorporating heaters
shall be provided with relief valves that will discharge to a
return line when excess pressure exists.
530 201 2 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 23
SOLAR ENERGY SYS*
iziwSo
SECTION M2301
THERMAL SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
M2301.1 General. This section provides for the design, con-
struction, installation, alteration and repair of equipment and
| systems using thermal solar energy to provide space heating
or cooling, hot water heating and swimming pool heating.
M2301.2 Installation. Installation of solar energy systems
shall comply with Sections M2301 .2.1 through M2301.2.9.
M2301.2.1 Access. Solar energy collectors, controls,
dampers, fans, blowers and pumps shall be accessible for
inspection, maintenance, repair and replacement.
M2301.2.2 Roof-mounted collectors. The roof shall be
constructed to support the loads imposed by roof-mounted
solar collectors. Roof-mounted solar collectors that serve
as a roof covering shall conform to the requirements for
roof coverings in Chapter 9 of this code. Where mounted
on or above the roof coverings, the collectors and support-
ing structure shall be constructed of noncombustible mate-
rials or fire-retardant-treated wood equivalent to that
required for the roof construction.
M2301.2.3 Pressure and temperature relief. System
components containing fluids shall be protected with pres-
sure- and temperature-relief valves. Relief devices shall be
installed in sections of the system so that a section cannot
be valved off or isolated from a relief device.
M230 1.2.4 Vacuum relief. System components that
might be subjected to pressure drops below atmospheric
pressure during operation or shutdown shall be protected
by a vacuum-relief valve.
M2301.2.5 Protection from freezing. System compo-
nents shall be protected from damage resulting from freez-
ing of heat-transfer liquids at the winter design
temperature provided in Table R301.2(l). Freeze protec-
tion shall be provided by heating, insulation, thermal mass
and heat transfer fluids with freeze points lower than the
winter design temperature, heat tape or other approved
methods, or combinations thereof.
Exception: Where the winter design temperature is
greater than 32°F (0°C).
M2301.2.6 Expansion tanks. Expansion tanks in solar
energy systems shall be installed in accordance with Sec-
tion M2003 in closed fluid loops that contain heat transfer
fluid.
M2301.2.7 Roof and wall penetrations. Roof and wall
penetrations shall be flashed and sealed in accordance with
Chapter 9 of this code to prevent entry of water, rodents
and insects.
M2301.2.8 Solar loop isolation. Valves shall be installed
to allow the solar collectors to be isolated from the
remainder of the system. Each isolation valve shall be
labeled with the open and closed position.
M2301.2.9 Maximum temperature limitation. Systems
shall be equipped with means to limit the maximum water
temperature of the system fluid entering or exchanging
heat with any pressurized vessel inside the dwelling to
180°F (82°C). This protection is in addition to the required
temperature- and pressure-relief valves required by Sec-
tion M230 1.2.3.
M2301.3 Labeling. Labeling shall comply with Sections
M2301.3.1andM2301.3.2.
M2301.3.1 Collectors. Collectors shall be listed and
labeled to show the manufacturer' s name, model number,
serial number, collector weight, collector maximum allow-
able temperatures and pressures, and the type of heat
transfer fluids that are compatible with the collector. The
label shall clarify that these specifications apply only to
the collector.
M2301.3.2 Thermal storage units. Pressurized thermal
storage units shall be listed and labeled to show the manu-
facturer's name, model number, serial number, storage
unit maximum and minimum allowable operating temper-
atures and pressures, and the type of heat transfer fluids
that are compatible with the storage unit. The label shall
clarify that these specifications apply only to the thermal
storage unit.
M2301.4 Prohibited heat transfer fluids. Flammable gases
and liquids shall not be used as heat transfer fluids.
M 230 1.5 Backflow protection. Connections from the pota-
ble water supply to solar systems shall comply with Section
P2902.5.5.
SECTION M2302
PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
M2302.1 General. This section provides for the design, con-
struction, installation, alteration, and repair of photovoltaic
equipment and systems.
M2302.2 Requirements. The installation, inspection, main-
tenance, repair and replacement of photovoltaic systems and
all system components shall comply with the manufacturer' s
instructions, Sections M2302.2.1 through M2302.2.3 and
NFPA 70.
M2302.2.1 Roof-mounted panels and modules. Where
photovoltaic panels and modules are installed on roofs, the
roof shall be constructed to support the loads imposed by
such modules. Roof-mounted photovoltaic panels and
modules that serve as roof covering shall conform to the
requirements for roof coverings in Chapter 9. Where
mounted on or above the roof coverings, the photovoltaic
panels and modules and supporting structure shall be con-
structed of noncombustible materials or fire-retardant-
treated wood equivalent to that required for the roof con-
struction.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS
M2302.2.2 Roof and wall penetrations. Roof and wall
penetrations shall be flashed and sealed in accordance with
Chapter 9 to prevent entry of water, rodents, and insects.
M2302.2.3 Ground-mounted panels and modules.
Ground-mounted panels and modules shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
M2302.3 Photovoltaic panels and modules. Photovoltaic
panels and modules shall be listed and labeled in accordance
withUL 1703.
M2302.4 Inverters. Inverters shall be listed and labeled in
accordance with UL 1741. Systems connected to the utility
grid shall use inverters listed for utility interaction.
532 201 2 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
Part VI— Fuel Gas
CHAPTER 24
FUEL GAS
The text of this chapter is extracted from the 2012 edition of the International Fuel Gas Code and has been modified where nec-
essary to conform to the scope of application of the International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings. The
section numbers appearing in parentheses after each section number are the section numbers of the corresponding text in the
International Fuel Gas Code.
SECTION G2401 (101)
GENERAL
G2401.1 (101.2) Application. This chapter covers those fuel
gas piping systems, fuel-gas appliances and related accesso-
ries, venting systems and combustion air configurations most
commonly encountered in the construction of one- and two-
family dwellings and structures regulated by this code.
Coverage of piping systems shall extend from the point of
delivery to the outlet of the appliance shutoff valves (see def-
inition of "Point of delivery"). Piping systems requirements
shall include design, materials, components, fabrication,
assembly, installation, testing, inspection, operation and
maintenance. Requirements for gas appliances and related
accessories shall include installation, combustion and ventila-
tion air and venting and connections to piping systems.
The omission from this chapter of any material or method
of installation provided for in the International Fuel Gas
Code shall not be construed as prohibiting the use of such
material or method of installation. Fuel-gas piping systems,
fuel-gas appliances and related accessories, venting systems
and combustion air configurations not specifically covered in
these chapters shall comply with the applicable provisions of
the International Fuel Gas Code.
Gaseous hydrogen systems shall be regulated by Chapter 7
of the International Fuel Gas Code.
This chapter shall not apply to the following:
1. Liquified natural gas (LNG) installations.
2. Temporary ~LP-gas piping for buildings under construc-
tion or renovation that is not to become part of the per-
manent piping system..
3. Except as provided in Section G2412.1.1, gas piping,
meters, gas pressure regulators, and other appurte-
nances used by the serving gas supplier in the distribu-
tion of gas, other than undiluted LP-gas.
4. Portable LP-gas appliances and equipment of all types
that is not connected to a fixed fuel piping system.
5. Portable fuel cell appliances that are neither connected
to a fixed piping system nor interconnected to a power
grid.
6. Installation of hydrogen gas, LP-gas and compressed
natural gas (CNG) systems on vehicles.
SECTION G2402 (201)
GENERAL
G2402.1 (201.1) Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated,
the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this
chapter, have the meanings indicated in this chapter.
G2402.2 (201.2) Intercnangeability. Words used in the
present tense include the future; words in the masculine gen-
der include the feminine and neuter; the singular number
includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
G2402.3 (201.3) Terms defined in other codes. Where
terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the Inter-
national Building Code, International Fire Code, Interna-
tional Mechanical Code or International Plumbing Code,
such terms shall have meanings ascribed to them as in those
codes.
SECTION G2403 (202)
GENERAL DEFINITIONS
AIR CONDITIONING, GAS FIRED. A gas-burning, auto-
matically operated appliance for supplying cooled and/or
dehumidified air or chilled liquid.
AIR, EXHAUST. Air being removed from any space or
piece of equipment or appliance and conveyed directly to the
atmosphere by means of openings or ducts.
AIR-HANDLING UNIT. A blower or fan used for the pur-
pose of distributing supply air to a room, space or area.
AIR, MAKEUP. Air that is provided to replace air being
exhausted.
ALTERATION. A change in a system that involves an
extension, addition or change to the arrangement, type or pur-
pose of the original installation.
ANODELESS RISER. A transition assembly in which plas-
tic piping is installed and terminated above ground outside of
a building.
APPLIANCE. Any apparatus or device that utilizes a fuel or
raw material to produce light, heat, power, refrigeration or air
conditioning.
APPLIANCE, AUTOMATICALLY CONTROLLED.
Appliances equipped with an automatic burner ignition and
safety shut-off device and other automatic devices, which
accomplish complete turn-on and shut-off of the gas to the
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
533
FUEL GAS
main burner or burners, and graduate the gas supply to the
burner or burners, but do not affect complete shut-off of the
gas.
APPLIANCE, FAN-ASSISTED COMBUSTION. An
appliance equipped with an integral mechanical means to
either draw or force products of combustion through the com-
bustion chamber or heat exchanger.
APPLIANCE, UNVENTED. An appliance designed or
installed in such a manner that the products of combustion are
not conveyed by a vent or chimney directly to the outside
atmosphere.
APPLIANCE, VENTED. An appliance designed and
installed in such a manner that all of the products of combus-
tion are conveyed directly from the appliance to the outside
atmosphere through an approved chimney or vent system.
APPROVED. Acceptable to the code official or other author-
ity having jurisdiction.
ATMOSPHERIC PRESSURE. The pressure of the weight
of air and water vapor on the surface of the earth, approxi-
mately 14.7 pounds per square inch (psia) (101 kPa absolute)
at sea level.
AUTOMATIC IGNITION. Ignition of gas at the burner(s)
when the gas controlling device is turned on, including reig-
nition if the flames on the burner(s) have been extinguished
by means other than by the closing of the gas controlling
device.
BAROMETRIC DRAFT REGULATOR. A balanced
damper device attached to a chimney, vent connector, breech-
ing or flue gas manifold to protect combustion appliances by
controlling chimney draft. A double-acting barometric draft
regulator is one whose balancing damper is free to move in
either direction to protect combustion appliances from both
excessive draft and backdraft.
BOILER, LOW-PRESSURE. A self-contained gas-fired
appliance for supplying steam or hot water.
Hot water heating boiler. A boiler in which no steam is
generated, from which hot water is circulated for heating
purposes and then returned to the boiler, and that operates
at water pressures not exceeding 160 psig (1100 kPa
gauge) and at water temperatures not exceeding 250°F
(121°C) at or near the boiler outlet.
Hot water supply boiler. A boiler, completely filled with
water, which furnishes hot water to be used externally to
itself, and that operates at water pressures not exceeding
160 psig (1 100 kPa gauge) and at water temperatures not
exceeding 250"F (12FC) at or near the boiler outlet.
Steam heating boiler. A boiler in which steam is gener-
ated and that operates at a steam pressure not exceeding 15
psig (100 kPa gauge).
BONDING JUMPER. A conductor installed to electrically
connect metallic gas piping to the grounding electrode sys-
tem.
BRAZING. A metal joining process wherein coalescence is
produced by the use of a nonferrous filler metal having a
melting point above 1,000°F (538°C), but lower than that of
the base metal being joined. The filler material is distributed
between the closely fitted surfaces of the joint by capillary
action.
BTU. Abbreviation for British thermal unit, which is the
quantity of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 pound
(454 g) of water 1°F (0.56°C) (1 Btu = 1055 J).
BURNER. A device for the final conveyance of the gas, or a
mixture of gas and air, to the combustion zone.
Induced -draft. A burner that depends on draft induced by
a fan that is an integral part of the appliance and is located
downstream from the burner.
Power. A burner in which gas, air or both are supplied at
pressures exceeding, for gas, the line pressure, and for air,
atmospheric pressure, with this added pressure being
applied at the burner.
CHIMNEY. A primarily vertical structure containing one or
more flues, for the purpose of carrying gaseous products of
combustion and air from an appliance to the outside atmo-
sphere.
Factory-built chimney. A listed and labeled chimney
composed of factory-made components, assembled in the
field in accordance with manufacturer's instructions and
the conditions of the listing.
Masonry chimney. A field-constructed chimney com-
posed of solid masonry units, bricks, stones or concrete.
CLEARANCE. The minimum distance through air mea-
sured between the heat-producing surface of the mechanical
appliance, device or equipment and the surface of the com-
bustible materia] or assembly.
CLOTHES DRYER. An appliance used to dry wet laundry
by means of heated air.
Type 1. Factory-built package, multiple production. Pri-
marily used in the family living environment. Usually the
smallest unit physically and in function output.
CODE. These regulations, subsequent amendments thereto,
or any emergency rule or regulation that the administrative
authority having jurisdiction has lawfully adopted.
CODE OFFICIAL. The officer or other designated authority
charged with the administration and enforcement of this code,
or a duly authorized representative.
COMBUSTIBLE ASSEMBLY. Wall, floor, ceiling or other-
assembly constructed of one or more component materials
that are not defined as noncombustible.
COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL. Any material not defined
as noncombustible.
COMBUSTION. In the context of this code, refers to the
rapid oxidation of fuel accompanied by the production of heat
or heat and light.
COMBUSTION AIR. Air necessary for complete combus-
tion of a fuel, including theoretical air and excess air.
COMBUSTION CHAMBER. The portion of an appliance
within which combustion occurs.
COMBUSTION PRODUCTS. Constituents resulting from
the combustion of a fuel with the oxygen of the air, including
the inert gases, but excluding excess air.
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
CONCEALED LOCATION. A location that cannot be
accessed without damaging permanent parts of the building
structure or finish surface. Spaces above, below or behind
readily removable panels or doors shall not be considered as
concealed.
CONCEALED PIPING. Piping that is located in a con-
cealed location (see "Concealed location").
CONDENSATE. The liquid that condenses from a gas
(including flue gas) caused by a reduction in temperature or
increase in pressure.
CONNECTOR, APPLIANCE (Fuel). Rigid metallic pipe
and fittings, semirigid metallic tubing and fittings or a listed
and labeled device that connects an appliance to the gas pip-
ing system.
CONNECTOR, CHIMNEY OR VENT. The pipe that con-
nects an appliance to a chimney or vent.
CONTROL. A manual or automatic device designed to regu-
late the gas, air, water or electrical supply to, or operation of,
a mechanical system.
CONVERSION BURNER. A unit consisting of a burner
and its controls for installation in an appliance originally uti-
lizing another fuel.
CUBIC FOOT. The amount of gas that occupies 1 cubic foot
(0.02832 m 3 ) when at a temperature of 60°F (16°C), saturated
with water vapor and under a pressure equivalent to that of 30
inches of mercury (101 kPa).
DAMPER. A manually or automatically controlled device to
regulate draft or the rate of flow of air or combustion gases.
DECORATIVE GAS APPLIANCE, VENTED. A vented
appliance wherein the primary function lies in the aesthetic
effect of the flames.
DECORATIVE GAS APPLIANCES FOR INSTALLA-
TION IN VENTED FIREPLACES. A vented appliance
designed for installation within the fire chamber of a vented
fireplace, wherein the primary function lies in the aesthetic
effect of the flames.
DEMAND. The maximum amount of gas input required per
unit of time, usually expressed in cubic feet per hour, or Btulh
(1 Btulh = 0.2931 W).
DESIGN FLOOD ELEVATION. The elevation of the
"design flood," including wave height, relative to the datum
specified on the community's legally designated flood hazard
map.
DILUTION AIR. Air that is introduced into a draft hood and
is mixed with the flue gases.
DIRECT- VENT APPLIANCES. Appliances that are con-
structed and installed so that all air for combustion is derived
directly from the outside atmosphere and all flue gases are
discharged directly to the outside atmosphere.
DRAFT. The pressure difference existing between the appli-
ance or any component part and the atmosphere, that causes a
continuous flow of air and products of combustion through
the gas passages of the appliance to the atmosphere.
Mechanical or induced draft. The pressure difference
created by the action of a fan, blower or ejector that is
located between the appliance and the chimney or vent ter-
mination.
Natural draft. The pressure difference created by a vent
or chimney because of its height, and the temperature dif-
ference between the flue gases and the atmosphere.
DRAFT HOOD. A nonadjustable device built into an appli-
ance, or made as part of the vent connector from an appli-
ance, that is designed to (1) provide for ready escape of the
flue gases from the appliance in the event of no draft, back-
draft, or stoppage beyond the draft hood, (2) prevent a back-
draft from entering the appliance, and (3) neutralize the effect
of stack action of the chimney or gas vent upon operation of
the appliance.
DRAFT REGULATOR. A device that functions to maintain
a desired draft in the appliance by automatically reducing the
draft to the desired value.
DRIP. The container placed at a low point in a system of pip-
ing to collect condensate and from which the condensate is
removable.
DUCT FURNACE. A warm-air furnace normally installed
in an air-distribution duct to supply warm air for heating. This
definition shall apply only to a warm-air heating appliance
that depends for air circulation on a blower not furnished as
part of the furnace.
DWELLING UNIT. A single unit providing complete, inde-
pendent living facilities for one or more persons, including
permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking
and sanitation.
EQUIPMENT. Apparatus and devices other than appli-
ances.
EXCESS FLOW VALVE (EFV). A valve designed to acti-
vate when the fuel gas passing through it exceeds a pre-
scribed flow rate.
EXTERIOR MASONRY CHIMNEYS. Masonry chimneys
exposed to the outdoors on one or more sides below the roof
line.
FIREPLACE. A fire chamber and hearth constructed of non-
combustible material for use with solid fuels and provided
with a chimney.
Masonry fireplace. A hearth and fire chamber of solid
masonry units such as bricks, stones, listed masonry units
or reinforced concrete, provided with a suitable chimney.
Factory-built fireplace. A fireplace composed of listed
factory-built components assembled in accordance with
the terms of listing to form the completed fireplace.
FLAME SAFEGUARD. A device that will automatically
shut off the fuel supply to a main burner or group of burners
when the means of ignition of such burners becomes inopera-
tive, and when flame failure occurs on the burner or group of
burners.
FLASHBACK ARRESTOR CHECK VALVE. A device
that will prevent the backflow of one gas into the supply sys-
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
535
FUEL GAS
Item of another gas and prevent the passage of flame into the
gas supply system.
FLOOD HAZARD AREA. The greater of the following two
areas:
1 . The area within a floodplain subject to a 1 percent or
greater chance of flooding in any given year.
2. This area designated as a flood hazard area on a com-
munity's flood hazard map, or otherwise legally desig-
nated.
FLOOR FURNACE. A completely self-contained furnace
suspended from the floor of the space being heated, taking air
for combustion from outside such space and with means for
observing flames and lighting the appliance from such space.
FLUE, APPLIANCE. The passage(s) within an appliance
through which combustion products pass from the combus-
tion chamber of the appliance to the draft hood inlet opening
on an appliance equipped with a draft hood or to the outlet of
the appliance on an appliance not equipped with a draft
hood.
FLUE COLLAR. That portion of an appliance designed for
the attachment of a draft hood, vent connector or venting sys-
tem.
FLUE GASES. Products of combustion plus excess air in
appliance flues or heat exchangers.
FLUE LINER (LINING). A system or material used to form
the inside surface of a flue in a chimney or vent, for the pur-
pose of protecting the surrounding structure from the effects
of combustion products and for conveying combustion prod-
ucts without leakage to the atmosphere.
FUEL GAS. A natural gas, manufactured gas, liquefied
petroleum gas or mixtures of these gases.
FUEL GAS UTILIZATION EQUIPMENT. See "Appli-
ance. "
FURNACE. A completely self-contained heating unit that is
designed to supply heated air to spaces remote from or adja-
cent to the appliance location.
FURNACE, CENTRAL FURNACE. A self-contained
appliance for heating air by transfer of heat of combustion
through metal to the air, and designed to supply heated air
through ducts to spaces remote from or adjacent to the appli-
ance location.
FURNACE PLENUM. An air compartment or chamber to
which one or more ducts are connected and which forms part
of an air distribution system.
GAS CONVENIENCE OUTLET. A permanently mounted,
manually operated device that provides the means for con-
necting an appliance to, and disconnecting an appliance
from, the gas supply piping. The device includes an integral,
manually operated valve with a nondisplaceable valve mem-
ber and is designed so that disconnection of an appliance
only occurs when the manually operated valve is in the closed
position.
GAS PIPING. An installation of pipe, valves or fittings
installed on a premises or in a building and utilized to convey
fuel gas.
HAZARDOUS LOCATION. Any location considered to be
a fire hazard for flammable vapors, dust, combustible fibers
or other highly combustible substances. The location is not
necessarily categorized in the International Building Code as
a high-hazard use group classification.
HOUSE PIPING. See "Piping system. "
IGNITION PILOT, k pilot that operates during the lighting
cycle and discontinues during main burner operation.
IGNITION SOURCE. A flame spark or hot surface capable
of igniting flammable vapors or fumes. Such sources include
appliance burners, burner ignitors and electrical switching
devices.
INFRARED RADIANT HEATER. A heater which directs
a substantial amount of its energy output in the form of infra-
red radiant energy into the area to be heated. Such heaters are
of either the vented or unvented type.
JOINT, FLARED. A metal-to-metal compression joint in
which a conical spread is made on the end of a tube that is
compressed by a flare nut against a mating flare.
JOINT, MECHANICAL. A general form of gas-tight joints
obtained by the joining of metal parts through a positive-
holding mechanical construction, such as press joint, flanged |
joint, threaded joint, flared joint or compression joint.
JOINT, PLASTIC ADHESIVE. A joint made in thermoset
plastic piping by the use of an adhesive substance which
forms a continuous bond between the mating surfaces with-
out dissolving either one of them.
LEAK CHECK. An operation performed on a gas piping
system to verify that the system does not leak.
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS or LPG (LP-GAS).
Liquefied petroleum gas composed predominately of pro-
pane, propylene, butanes or butylenes, or mixtures thereof
that is gaseous under normal atmospheric conditions, but is
capable of being liquefied under moderate pressure at normal
temperatures.
LIVING SPACE. Space within a dwelling unit utilized for
living, sleeping, eating, cooking, bathing, washing and sanita-
tion purposes.
LOG LIGHTER, GAS- FIRED. A manually operated solid-
fuel ignition appliance for installation in a vented solid-fuel-
burning fireplace .
MAIN BURNER. A device or group of devices essentially
forming an integral unit for the final conveyance of gas or a
mixture of gas and air to the combustion zone, and on which
combustion takes place to accomplish the function for which
the appliance is designed.
METER. The instrument installed to measure the volume of
gas delivered through it.
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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MODULATING. Modulating or throttling is the action of a
control from its maximum to minimum position in either pre-
determined steps or increments of movement as caused by its
actuating medium.
NONCOMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS. Materials that, when
tested in accordance with ASTM E 136, have at least three of
four specimens tested meeting all of the following criteria:
1. The recorded temperature of the surface and interior
thermocouples shall not at any time during the test rise
more than 54°F (30°C) above the furnace temperature at
the beginning of the test.
2. There shall not be flaming from the specimen after the
first 30 seconds.
3. If the weight loss of the specimen during testing
exceeds 50 percent, the recorded temperature of the
surface and interior thermocouples shall not at any time
during the test rise above the furnace air temperature at
the beginning of the test, and there shall not be flaming
of the specimen.
OFFSET (VENT). A combination of approved bends that
make two changes in direction bringing one section of the
vent out of line, but into a line parallel with the other section.
OUTLET. The point at which a gas-fired appliance connects
to the gas piping system.
OXYGEN DEPLETION SAFETY SHUTOFF SYSTEM
(ODS). A system designed to act to shut off the gas supply to
the main and pilot burners if the oxygen in the surrounding
atmosphere is reduced below a predetermined level.
PILOT. A small flame that is utilized to ignite the gas at the
main burner or burners.
PIPING. Where used in this code, "piping" refers to either
pipe or tubing, or both.
Pipe. A rigid conduit of iron, steel, copper, brass or plas-
tic.
Tubing. Semirigid conduit of copper, aluminum, plastic
or steel.
PIPING SYSTEM. All fuel piping, valves and fittings from
the outlet of the point of delivery to the outlets of the appli-
ance shutoff valves.
PLASTIC, THERMOPLASTIC. A plastic that is capable
of being repeatedly softened by increase of temperature and
hardened by decrease of temperature.
POINT OF DELIVERY. For natural gas systems, the point
of delivery is the outlet of the service meter assembly or the
outlet of the service regulator or service shutoff valve where a
meter is not provided. Where a valve is provided at the outlet
of the service meter assembly, such valve shall be considered
to be downstream of the point of delivery. For undiluted liq-
uefied petroleum gas systems, the point of delivery shall be
considered to be the outlet of the service pressure regulator,
exclusive of line gas regulators, in the system.
PRESSURE DROP. The loss in pressure due to friction or
obstruction in pipes, valves, fittings, regulators and burners.
PRESSURE TEST. An operation performed to verify the
gas-tight integrity of gas piping following its installation or
modification.
READY ACCESS (TO). That which enables a device,
appliance or equipment to be directly reached, without
requiring the removal or movement of any panel, door or sim-
ilar obstruction. (See "Access.")
REGULATOR. A device for controlling and maintaining a
uniform gas supply pressure, either pounds-to-inches water
column (MP regulator) or inches-to-inches water column
{appliance regulator).
REGULATOR, GAS APPLIANCE. A pressure regulator
for controlling pressure to the manifold of the gas appliance.
REGULATOR, LINE GAS PRESSURE. A device placed
in a gas line between the service pressure regulator and the
appliance for controlling, maintaining or reducing the pres-
sure in that portion of the piping system downstream of the
device.
REGULATOR, MEDIUM-PRESSURE (MP Regulator).
A line pressure regulator that reduces gas pressure from the
range of greater than 0.5 psig (3.4 kPa) and less than or equal
to 5 psig (34.5 kPa) to a lower pressure.
REGULATOR, PRESSURE. A device placed in a gas line
for reducing, controlling and maintaining the pressure in that
portion of the piping system downstream of the device.
REGULATOR, SERVICE PRESSURE. For natural gas
systems, a device installed by the serving gas supplier to
reduce and limit the service line pressure to delivery pres-
sure. For undiluted liquefied petroleum gas systems, the reg-
ulator located upstream from all line gas pressure regulators,
where installed, and downstream from any first stage or a
high pressure regulator in the system.
RELIEF OPENING. The opening provided in a draft hood
to permit the ready escape to the atmosphere of the flue prod-
ucts from the draft hood in the event of no draft, backdraft or
stoppage beyond the draft hood, and to permit air into the
draft hood in the event of a strong chimney updraft.
RELIEF VALVE (DEVICE). A safety valve designed to
forestall the development of a dangerous condition by reliev-
ing either pressure, temperature or vacuum in the hot water
supply system.
RELIEF VALVE, PRESSURE. An automatic valve which
opens and closes a relief vent, depending on whether the pres-
sure is above or below a predetermined value.
RELIEF VALVE, TEMPERATURE.
Manual reset type. A valve which automatically opens a
relief vent at a predetermined temperature and which must
be manually returned to the closed position.
Reseating or self-closing type. An automatic valve which
opens and closes a relief vent, depending on whether the
temperature is above or below a predetermined value.
RELIEF VALVE, VACUUM. A valve that automatically
opens and closes a vent for relieving a vacuum within the hot
water supply system, depending on whether the vacuum is
above or below a predetermined value.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTSAL CODE®
537
FUEL GAS
RISER, GAS. A vertical pipe supplying /«<?/ gas.
ROOM HEATER, UNVENTED. See "U merited room
heater. "
ROOM HEATER, VENTED. A free-standing gas-fired
heating unit used for direct heating of the space in and adja-
cent to that in which the unit is located. (See also "Vented
room heater. ")
SAFETY SHUTOFF DEVICE. See "Flame safeguard. "
SHAFT. An enclosed space extending through one or more
stories of a building, connecting vertical openings in succes-
sive floors, or floors and the roof.
SPECIFIC GRAVITY. As applied to gas, specific gravity is
the ratio of the weight of a given volume to that of the same
volume of air, both measured under the same condition.
THERMOSTAT.
Electric switch type. A device that senses changes in tem-
perature and controls electrically, by means of separate
components, the flow of gas to the burner(s) to maintain
selected temperatures.
Integral gas valve type. An automatic device, actuated by
temperature changes, designed to control the gas supply to
the burner(s) in order to maintain temperatures between
predetermined limits, and in which the thermal actuating
element is an integral part of the device.
1. Graduating thermostat. A thermostat in which the
motion of the valve is approximately in direct pro-
portion to the effective motion of the thermal ele-
ment induced by temperature change.
2. Snap-acting thermostat. A thermostat in which the
thermostatic valve travels instantly from the closed
to the open position, and vice versa.
THIRD-PARTY CERTIFICATION AGENCY. An
approved agency operating a product or material certification
system that incorporates initial product testing, assessment
and surveillance of a manufacturer's quality control system.
THIRD-PARTY CERTIFIED. Certification obtained by
the manufacturer indicating that the function and perfor-
mance characteristics of a product or material have been
determined by testing and ongoing surveillance by an
approved third-party certification agency. Assertion of certi-
fication is in the form of identification in accordance with the
requirements of the third-party certification agency.
THIRD-PARTY TESTED. Procedure by which an
approved testing laboratory provides documentation that a
product, material or system conforms to specified require-
ments.
TRANSITION FITTINGS, PLASTIC TO STEEL. An
adapter for joining plastic pipe to steel pipe. The purpose of
this fitting is to provide a permanent, pressure-tight connec-
tion between two materials that cannot be joined directly one
to another.
UNIT HEATER.
High-static pressure type. A self-contained, automati-
cally controlled, vented appliance having integral means
for circulation of air against 0.2 inch w.c. (50 Pa) or
greater static pressure. Such appliance is equipped with
provisions for attaching an outlet air duct and, where the
appliance is for indoor installation remote from the space
to be heated, is also equipped with provisions for attaching
an inlet air duct.
Low-static pressure type. A self-contained, automati-
cally controlled, vented appliance, intended for installa-
tion in the space to be heated without the use of ducts,
having integral means for circulation of air. Such units are
allowed to be equipped with louvers or face extensions
made in accordance with the manufacturer's specifica-
tions.
UNVENTED ROOM HEATER. An unvented heating
appliance designed for stationary installation and utilized to
provide comfort heating. Such appliances provide radiant
heat or convection heat by gravity or fan circulation directly
from the heater and do not utilize ducts.
VALVE. A device used in piping to control the gas supply to
any section of a system of piping or to an appliance.
Appliance shutoff. A valve located in the piping system,
used to isolate individual appliances for purposes such as
service or replacement.
Automatic. An automatic or semiautomatic device con-
sisting essentially of a valve and an operator that control
the gas supply to the burner(s) during operation of an
appliance. The operator shall be actuated by application of
gas pressure on a flexible diaphragm, by electrical means,
by mechanical means or by other approved means.
Automatic gas shutoff. A valve used in conjunction with
an automatic gas shutoff device to shut off the gas supply
to a water heating system. It shall be constructed integrally
with the gas shutoff device or shall be a separate assembly.
Individual main burner. A valve that controls the gas
supply to an individual main burner.
Main burner control. A valve that controls the gas supply
to the main burner manifold.
Manual main gas-control. A manually operated valve in
the gas line for the purpose of completely turning on or
shutting off the gas supply to the appliance, except to a
pilot or pilots that have independent shutoff.
Manual reset. An automatic shutoff valve installed in the
gas supply piping and set to shut off when unsafe condi-
tions occur. The device remains closed until manually
reopened.
Service shutoff. A valve, installed by the serving gas sup-
plier between the service meter or source of supply and the
customer piping system, to shut off the entire piping sys-
tem.
VENT. A pipe or other conduit composed of factory-made
components, containing a passageway for conveying combus-
tion products and air to the atmosphere, listed and labeled for
use with a specific type or class of appliance.
Special gas vent. A vent listed and labeled for use with
listed Category II, III and IV gas appliances.
538
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Type B vent. A vent listed and labeled for use with appli-
ances with draft hoods and other Category I appliances
that are listed for use with Type B vents.
Type BW vent. A vent listed and labeled for use with wall
furnaces.
Type L vent. A vent listed and labeled for use with appli-
ances that are listed for use with Type L or Type B vents.
VENT CONNECTOR. See "Connector."
VENT PIPING.
Breather. Piping run from a pressure-regulating device to
the outdoors, designed to provide a reference to atmo-
spheric pressure. If the device incorporates an integral
pressure relief mechanism, a breather vent can also serve
as a relief vent.
Relief. Piping ran from a pressure-regulating or pressure-
limiting device to the outdoors, designed to provide for the
safe venting of gas in the event of excessive pressure in
the gas piping system.
VENTED GAS APPLIANCE CATEGORIES. Appliances
that are categorized for the purpose of vent selection are clas-
sified into the following four categories:
Category I. An appliance that operates with a nonpositive
vent static pressure and with a vent gas temperature that
avoids excessive condensate production in the vent.
Category II. An appliance that operates with a nonposi-
tive vent static pressure and with a vent gas temperature
that is capable of causing excessive condensate production
in the vent.
Category III. An appliance that operates with a positive
vent static pressure and with a vent gas temperature that
avoids excessive condensate production in the vent.
Category IV. An appliance that operates with a positive
vent static pressure and with a vent gas temperature that is
capable of causing excessive condensate production in the
vent.
VENTED ROOM HEATER. A vented self-contained, free-
standing, nonrecessed appliance for furnishing warm air to
the space in which it is installed, directly from the heater
without duct connections.
VENTED WALL FURNACE. A self-contained vented
appliance complete with grilles or equivalent, designed for
incorporation in or permanent attachment to the structure of a
building, mobile home or travel trailer, and furnishing heated
air circulated by gravity or by a fan directly into the space to
be heated through openings in the casing. This definition
shall exclude floor furnaces, unit heaters and central fur-
naces as herein defined.
VENTING SYSTEM. A continuous open passageway from
the flue collar or draft hood of an appliance to the outside
atmosphere for the purpose of removing flue or vent gases. A
venting system is usually composed of a vent or a chimney
and vent connector, if used, assembled to form the open pas-
sageway.
WATER HEATER. Any heating appliance or equipment
that heats potable water and supplies such water to the pota-
ble hot water distribution system.
WALL HEATER, UNVENTED TYPE. A room heater of
the type designed for insertion in or attachment to a wall or
partition. Such heater does not incorporate concealed venting
arrangements in its construction and discharges all products
of combustion through the front into the room being heated.
SECTION G2404 (301)
GENERAL
G2404.1 (301.1) Scope. This section shall govern the
approval and installation of all equipment and appliances that
comprise parts of the installations regulated by this code in
accordance with Section G2401.
G2404.2 (301.1.1) Other fuels. The requirements for com-
bustion and dilution air for gas-fired appliances shall be gov-
erned by Section G2407. The requirements for combustion
and dilution air for appliances operating with fuels other than
fuel gas shall be regulated by Chapter 17.
G2404.3 (301.3) Listed and labeled. Appliances regulated
by this code shall be listed and labeled for the application in
which they are used unless otherwise approved in accordance
with Section R104.1 1 . The approval of unlisted appliances in
accordance with Section R104.ll shall be based upon
approved engineering evaluation.
G2404.4 (301.8) Vibration isolation. Where means for iso-
lation of vibration of an appliance is installed, an approved
means for support and restraint of that appliance shall be pro-
vided.
G2404.5 (301.9) Repair. Defective material or parts shall be
replaced or repaired in such a manner so as to preserve the
original approval or listing.
G2404.6 (301.10) Wind resistance. Appliances and supports
that are exposed to wind shall be designed and installed to
resist the wind pressures determined in accordance with this
code.
G2404.7 (301.11) Flood hazard. For structures located in
flood hazard areas, the appliance, equipment and system
installations regulated by this code shall be located at or
above the elevation required by Section R322 for utilities and
attendant equipment.
Exception: The appliance, equipment and system installa-
tions regulated by this code are permitted to be located
below the elevation required by Section R322 for utilities
and attendant equipment provided that they are designed
and installed to prevent water from entering or accumulat-
ing within the components and to resist hydrostatic and
hydrodynamic loads and stresses, including the effects of
buoyancy, during the occurrence of flooding to such ele-
vation.
G2404.8 (301.12) Seismic resistance. When earthquake
loads are applicable in accordance with this code, the sup-
ports shall be designed and installed for the seismic forces in
accordance with this code.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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FUEL GAS
G2404.9 (301.14) Rodentproofing. Buildings or structures
and the walls enclosing habitable or occupiable rooms and
spaces in which persons live, sleep or work, or in which feed,
food or foodstuffs are stored, prepared, processed, served or
sold, shall be constructed to protect against the entry of
rodents.
G2404.10 (307.5) Auxiliary drain pan. Category IV con-
densing appliances shall be provided with an auxiliary drain
pan where damage to any building component will occur as a
result of stoppage in the condensate drainage system. Such
pan shall be installed in accordance with the applicable provi-
sions of Section M1411.
Exception: An auxiliary drain pan shall not be required
for appliances that automatically shut down operation in
the event of a stoppage in the condensate drainage system.
SECTION G2405 (302)
STRUCTURAL SAFETY
G2405.1 (302.1) Structural safety. The building shall not be
weakened by the installation of any gas piping. In the process
of installing or repairing any gas piping, the finished floors,
walls, ceilings, tile work or any other part of the building or
premises which are required to be changed or replaced shall
be left in a safe structural condition in accordance with the
requirements of this code.
G2405.2 (302.4) Alterations to trusses. Truss members and
components shall not be cut, drilled, notched, spliced or oth-
erwise altered in any way without the written concurrence
and approval of a registered design professional. Alterations
resulting in the addition of loads to any member (e.g., HVAC
equipment, water heaters) shall not be permitted without ver-
ification that the truss is capable of supporting such addi-
tional loading.
G2405.3 (302.3.1) Engineered wood products. Cuts,
notches and holes bored in trusses, structural composite lum-
ber, structural glued-1 animated members and I-joists are pro-
hibited except where permitted by the manufacturer's
recommendations or where the effects of such alterations are
specifically considered in the design of the member by a reg-
istered design professional.
SECTION G2406 (303)
APPLIANCE LOCATION
G2406.1 (303.1) General. Appliances shall be located as
required by this section, specific requirements elsewhere in
this code and the conditions of the equipment and appliance
listing.
G2406.2 (303.3) Prohibited locations. Appliances shall not
be located in sleeping rooms, bathrooms, toilet rooms, stor-
age closets or surgical rooms, or in a space that opens only
into such rooms or spaces, except where the installation com-
plies with one of the following:
1. The appliance is a direct-vent appliance installed in
accordance with the conditions of the listing and the
manufacturer's instructions.
2. Vented room heaters, wall furnaces, vented decorative
appliances, vented gas fireplaces, vented gas fireplace
heaters and decorative appliances for installation in
vented solid fuel-burning fireplaces are installed in
rooms that meet the required volume criteria of Section
G2407.5.
3. A single wall-mounted unvented room heater is
installed in a bathroom and such unvented room heater
is equipped as specified in Section G2445.6 and has an
input rating not greater than 6,000 Btu/h (1.76 kW).
The bathroom shall meet the required volume criteria
of Section G2407. 5.
4. A single wall-mounted unvented room heater is
installed in a bedroom and such unvented room heater
is equipped as specified in Section G2445.6 and has an
input rating not greater than 10,000 Btu/h (2.93 kW).
The bedroom shall meet the required volume criteria of
Section G2407.5.
5. The appliance is installed in a room or space that opens
only into a bedroom or bathroom, and such room or
space is used for no other purpose and is provided with
a solid weather- stripped door equipped with an
approved self-closing device. All combustion air shall
be taken directly from the outdoors in accordance with
Section G2407.6.
G2406.3 (303.6) Outdoor locations. Appliances installed in
outdoor locations shall be either listed for outdoor installation
or provided with protection from outdoor environmental fac-
tors that influence the operability, durability and safety of the
appliance.
SECTION G2407 (304)
COMBUSTION, VENTILATION AND DILUTION AIR
G2407.1 (304.1) General. Air for combustion, ventilation
and dilution of flue gases for appliances installed in buildings
shall be provided by application of one of the methods pre-
scribed in Sections G2407.5 through G2407.9. Where the
requirements of Section G2407.5 are not met, outdoor air
shall be introduced in accordance with one of the methods
prescribed in Sections G2407.6 through G2407.9. Direct-vent
appliances, gas appliances of other than natural draft design
and vented gas appliances other than Category I shall be pro-
vided with combustion, ventilation and dilution air in accor-
dance with the appliance manufacturer's instructions.
Exception: Type 1 clothes dryers that are provided with
makeup air in accordance with Section G2439.4.
G2407.2 (304.2) Appliance location. Appliances shall be
located so as not to interfere with proper circulation of com-
bustion, ventilation and dilution air.
G2407.3 (304.3) Draft hood/regulator location. Where
used, a draft hood or a barometric draft regulator shall be
installed in the same room or enclosure as the appliance
served so as to prevent any difference in pressure between the
hood or regulator and the combustion air supply.
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G2407.4 (304.4) Makeup air provisions. Where exhaust
fans, clothes dryers and kitchen ventilation systems interfere
with the operation of appliances, makeup air shall be pro-
vided.
G2407.5 (304.5) Indoor combustion air. The required vol-
ume of indoor air shall be determined in accordance with
Section G2407.5.1 or G2407.5.2, except that where the air
infiltration rate is known to be less than 0.40 air changes per
hour (ACH), Section G2407.5.2 shall be used. The total
required volume shall be the sum of the required volume cal-
culated for all appliances located within the space. Rooms
communicating directly with the space in which the appli-
ances are installed through openings not furnished with
doors, and through combustion air openings sized and located
in accordance with Section G2407.5.3, are considered to be
part of the required volume.
G2407.5.1 (304.5.1) Standard method. The minimum
required volume shall be 50 cubic feet per 1,000 Btu/h (4.8
mVkW).
G2407.5.2 (304.5.2) Known air-infiltration-rate
method. Where the air infiltration rate of a structure is
known, the minimum required volume shall be determined
as follows:
For appliances other than fan assisted, calculate vol-
ume using Equation 24-1 .
Required Volume
2 Iff
other :
f-
othe
-)
A CHU, 000 BTU/hrJ
(Equation 24-1)
For fan-assisted appliances, calculate volume using
Equation 24-2.
15ftV
J
fan
Reqmred Volume fan > ^^7/U ,000 BTU/hr^
(Equation 24-2
where:
Mother ~ All appliances other than fan assisted (input in Btu/h).
I fan = Fan-assisted appliance (input in Btu/h).
ACH = Air change per hour (percent of volume of space
exchanged per hour, expressed as a decimal).
For purposes of this calculation, an infiltration rate
greater than 0.60 ACH shall not be used in Equations 24-1
and 24-2.
G2407.5.3 (304.5.3) Indoor opening size and location.
Openings used to connect indoor spaces shall be sized and
located in accordance with Sections G2407.5.3.1 and
G2407.5.3.2 (see Figure G2407.5.3).
G2407.5.3.1 (304.5.3.1) Combining spaces on the
same story. Each opening shall have a minimum free
area of 1 square inch per 1,000 Btu/h (2,200 mmVkW)
of the total input rating of all appliances in the space,
but not less than 100 square inches (0.06 m 2 ). One
opening shall commence within 12 inches (305 mm) of
the top and one opening shall commence within 12
inches (305 mm) of the bottom of the enclosure. The
minimum dimension of air openings shall be not less
than 3 inches (76 mm).
G2407.5.3.2 (304.5.3.2) Combining spaces in differ-
ent stories. The volumes of spaces in different stories
shall be considered as communicating spaces where
such spaces are connected by one or more openings in
doors or floors having a total minimum free area of 2
square inches per 1 ,000 Btu/h (4402 mmVkW) of total
input rating of all appliances.
G2407.6 (304.6) Outdoor combustion air. Outdoor combus-
tion air shall be provided through opening(s) to the outdoors
in accordance with Section G2407.6.1 or G2407.6.2. The
minimum dimension of air openings shall be not less than 3
inches (76 mm).
G2407.6.1 (304.6.1) Two-permanent-openings method.
Two permanent openings, one commencing within 12
inches (305 mm) of the top and one commencing within
12 inches (305 mm) of the bottom of the enclosure, shall
be provided. The openings shall communicate directly, or
by ducts, with the outdoors or spaces that freely communi-
cate with the outdoors.
Where directly communicating with the outdoors, or
where communicating with the outdoors through vertical
ducts, each opening shall have a minimum free area of 1
square inch per 4,000 Btu/h (550 mrcr/kW) of total input
rating of all appliances in the enclosure [see Figures
G2407.6.1(l) and G2407 .6.1(2)].
Where communicating with the outdoors through hori-
zontal ducts, each opening shall have a minimum free area
of not less than 1 square inch per 2,000 Btu/h (1,100 mm 2 /
kW) of total input rating of all appliances in the enclosure
[see Figure G2407.6. 1(3)].
CHIMNEY OR GAS VENT
FURNACE
OPENING
FIGURE G2407.5.3 (304.5.3)
ALL AIR FROM INSIDE THE BUILDING
(see Section G2407.5.3)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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FUEL GAS
CHIMNEY OR GAS VENT
VENTILATION LOUVERS
(EACH END OF ATTIC)
OUTLET AIR
WATER HEATER
INLET AIR
VENTILATION LOUVERS
FOR UNHEATED CRAWL SPACE
FIGURE G2407.6.1(1) [304.6.1(1)]
ALL AIR FROM OUTDOOR-INLET AIR FROM VENTILATED CRAWL SPACE AND OUTLET AIR TO VENTILATED ATTIC
(see Section G2407.6.1)
CHIMNEY OR GAS VENT
FURNACE
VENTILATION LOUVERS
(EACH END OF ATTIC)
OUTLET AIR
WATER HEATER
[INLET AIR DUCT (ENDS 1 FT.) ABOVE
FLOOR]
i , I , I
I I I I
ForSJ: ] foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE G2407.6.1(2) [304.6.1(2)]
ALL AIR FROM OUTDOORS THROUGH VENTILATED ATTIC (see Section G2407.6.1)
542
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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G2407.6.2 (304.6.2) One-permanent-opening method.
One permanent opening, commencing within 12 inches
(305 mm) of the top of the enclosure, shall be provided.
The appliance shall have clearances of at least 1 inch (25
mm) from the sides and back and 6 inches (152 mm) from
the front of the appliance. The opening shall directly com-
municate with the outdoors or through a vertical or hori-
zontal duct to the outdoors, or spaces that freely
communicate with the outdoors (see Figure G2407.6.2)
and shall have a minimum free area of 1 square inch per
3,000 Btu/h (734 mmVkW) of the total input rating of all
appliances located in the enclosure and not less than the
sum of the areas of all vent connectors in the space.
G2407.7 (304.7) Combination indoor and outdoor com-
bustion air. The use of a combination of indoor and outdoor
combustion air shall be in accordance with Sections
G2407.7.1 through G2407.7.3.
G2407.7.1 (304.7.1) Indoor openings. Where used, open-
ings connecting the interior spaces shall comply with Sec-
tion G2407.5.3.
G2407.7.2 (304.7.2) Outdoor opening location. Outdoor
opening(s) shall be located in accordance with Section
G2407.6.
G2407.7.3 (304.7.3) Outdoor opening(s) size. The out-
door opening(s) size shall be calculated in accordance with
the following:
1. The ratio of interior spaces shall be the available
volume of all communicating spaces divided by the
required volume.
2. The outdoor size reduction factor shall be one minus
the ratio of interior spaces.
3. The minimum size of outdoor opening(s) shall be
the full size of outdoor opening(s) calculated in
accordance with Section G2407.6, multiplied by the
reduction factor. The minimum dimension of air
openings shall be not less than 3 inches (76 mm).
CHIMNEY OR GAS VENT
1, 1 ,1 ,1
EZX
I l I I I TH
1 T
I I I I
OPENING
ALTERNATE OPENING
LOCATION
FIGURE G2407.6.2 (304.6.2)
SINGLE COMBUSTION AIR OPENING,
ALL AIR FROM OUTDOORS
(see Section G2407.6.2)
_ CHIMNEY OR GAS VENT
FIGURE G2407.6.1(3) [304.6.1(3)]
ALL AIR FROM OUTDOORS (see Section G2407.6.1)
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543
FUEL GAS
G2407.8 (304.8) Engineered installations. Engineered com-
bustion air installations shall provide an adequate supply of
combustion, ventilation and dilution air and shall be
approved.
G2407.9 (304.9) Mechanical combustion air supply.
Where all combustion air is provided by a mechanical air
supply system, the combustion air shall be supplied from the
outdoors at a rate not less than 0.35 cubic feet per minute per
1 ,000 Btu/h (0.034 nrVmin per kW) of total input rating of all
appliances located within the space.
G2407.9.1 (304.9.1) Makeup air. Where exhaust fans are
installed, makeup air shall be provided to replace the
exhausted air.
G2407.9.2 (304.9.2) Appliance interlock. Each of the
appliances served shall be interlocked with the mechanical
air supply system to prevent main burner operation when
the mechanical air supply system is not in operation.
G2407.9.3 (304.9.3) Combined combustion air and ven-
tilation air system. Where combustion air is provided by
the building's mechanical ventilation system, the system
shall provide the specified combustion cur rate in addition
to the required ventilation air.
G2407.10 (304.10) Louvers and grilles. The required size of
openings for combustion, ventilation and dilution air shall be
based on the net free area of each opening. Where the free
area through a design of louver, grille or screen is known, it
shall be used in calculating the size opening required to pro-
vide the free area specified. Where the design and free area of
louvers and grilles are not known, it shall be assumed that
wood louvers will have 25-percent free area and metal lou-
vers and grilles will have 75-percent free area. Screens shall
have a mesh size not smaller than V 4 inch (6.4 mm). Nonmo-
torized louvers and grilles shall be fixed in the open position.
Motorized louvers shall be interlocked with the appliance so
that they are proven to be in the full open position prior to
main burner ignition and during main burner operation.
Means shall be provided to prevent the main burner from
igniting if the louvers fail to open during burner start-up and
to shut down the main burner if the louvers close during
operation.
G2407.il (304.11) Combustion air ducts. Combustion air
ducts shall comply with all of the following:
1 . Ducts shall be constructed of galvanized steel comply-
ing with Chapter 16 or of a material having equivalent
corrosion resistance, strength and rigidity.
Exception: Within dwellings units, unobstructed
stud and joist spaces shall not be prohibited from
conveying combustion air, provided that not more
than one required fireblock is removed.
2. Ducts shall terminate in an unobstructed space allowing
free movement of combustion car to the appliances.
3. Ducts shall serve a single enclosure.
4. Ducts shall not serve both upper and lower combustion
air openings where both such openings are used. The
separation between ducts serving upper and lower com-
bustion air openings shall be maintained to the source
of combustion air.
5. Ducts shall not be screened where terminating in an
attic space.
6. Horizontal upper combustion air ducts shall not slope
downward toward the source of combustion air.
7. The remaining space surrounding a chimney liner, gas
vent, special gas vent or plastic piping installed within
a masonry, metal or factory-built chimney shall not be
used to supply combustion air.
Exception: Direct-vent gas-fired appliances
designed for installation in a solid fuel-burning fire-
place where installed in accordance with the manu-
facturer's instructions.
8. Combustion air intake openings located on the exterior
of a building shall have the lowest side of such open-
ings located not less than 12 inches (305 mm) vertically
from the adjoining finished ground level.
G2407.12 (304.12) Protection from fumes and gases.
Where corrosive or flammable process fumes or gases, other
than products of combustion, are present, means for the dis-
posal of such fumes or gases shall be provided. Such fumes or
gases include carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia,
chlorine and halogenated hydrocarbons.
In barbershops, beauty shops and other facilities where
chemicals that generate corrosive or flammable products,
such as aerosol sprays, are routinely used, nondirect vent-
type appliances shall be located in a mechanical room sepa-
rated or partitioned off from other areas with provisions for
combustion air and dilution air from the outdoors. Direct-
vent appliances shall be installed in accordance with the
appliance manufacturer's installation instructions.
SECTION G2408 (305)
INSTALLATION
G2408.1 (305.1) General. Equipment and appliances shall
be installed as required by the terms of their approval, in
accordance with the conditions of listing, the manufacturer's
instructions and this code. Manufacturer's installation
instructions shall be available on the job site at the time of
inspection. Where a code provision is less restrictive than the
conditions of the listing of the equipment or appliance or the
manufacturer's installation instructions, the conditions of the
listing and the manufacturer's installation instructions shall
apply.
Unlisted appliances approved in accordance with Section
G2404.3 shall be limited to uses recommended by the manu-
facturer and shall be installed in accordance with the manu-
facturer's instructions, the provisions of this code and the
requirements determined by the code official.
G2408.2 (305.3) Elevation of ignition source. Equipment
and appliances having an ignition source shall be elevated
such that the source of ignition is not less than 1 8 inches (457
mm) above the floor in hazardous locations and public
garages, private garages, repair garages, motor fuel-dispens-
ing facilities and parking garages. For the purpose of this sec-
544
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
tion, rooms or spaces that are not part of the living space of a
dwelling unit and that communicate directly with a private
garage through openings shall be considered to be part of the
private garage.
Exception: Elevation of the ignition source is not required
for appliances that are listed as flammable vapor ignition
resistant.
G2408.2.1 (305.3.1) Installation in residential garages.
In residential garages where appliances are installed in a
separate, enclosed space having access only from outside
of the garage, such appliances shall be permitted to be
installed at floor level, provided that the required combus-
tion air is taken from the exterior of the garage.
G2408.3 (305.5) Private garages. Appliances located in pri-
vate garages shall be installed with a minimum clearance of 6
feet (1 829 mm) above the floor.
Exception: The requirements of this section shall not
apply where the appliances are protected from motor vehi-
cle impact and installed in accordance with Section
G2408.2.
G2408.4 (305.7) Clearances from grade. Equipment and
appliances installed at grade level shall be supported on a
level concrete slab or other approved material extending not
less than 3 inches (76 mm) above adjoining grade or shall be
suspended not less than 6 inches (152 mm) above adjoining
grade. Such supports shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's installation instructions.
G2408.5 (305.8) Clearances to combustible construction.
Heat-producing equipment and appliances shall be installed
to maintain the required clearances to combustible construc-
tion as specified in the listing and manufacturer's instruc-
tions. Such clearances shall be reduced only in accordance
with Section G2409. Clearances to combustibles shall
include such considerations as door swing, drawer pull, over-
head projections or shelving and window swing. Devices,
such as door stops or limits and closers, shall not be used to
provide the required clearances.
G2408.6 (305.12) Avoid strain on gas piping. Appliances
shall be supported and connected to the piping so as not to
exert undue strain on the connections.
SECTION G2409 (308)
CLEARANCE REDUCTION
G2409.1 (308.1) Scope. This section shall govern the reduc-
tion in required clearances to combustible materials, includ-
ing gypsum board, and combustible assemblies for chimneys,
vents, appliances, devices and equipment. Clearance require-
ments for air-conditioning equipment and central heating
boilers and furnaces shall comply with Sections G2409.3 and
G2409.4.
G2409.2 (308.2) Reduction table. The allowable clearance
reduction shall be based on one of the methods specified in
Table G2409.2 or shall utilize an assembly listed for such
application. Where required clearances are not listed in Table
G2409.2, the reduced clearances shall be determined by lin-
ear interpolation between the distances listed in the table.
Reduced clearances shall not be derived by extrapolation
below the range of the table. The reduction of the required
clearances to combustibles for listed and labeled appliances
and equipment shall be in accordance with the requirements
of this section except that such clearances shall not be
reduced where reduction is specifically prohibited by the
terms of the appliance or equipment listing [see Figures
G2409.2(l), G2409.2(2) and G2409.2(3)].
CONSTRUCTION USING COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL,
PLASTERED OR UNPLASTERED\
SHEET METAL OR OTHER
PROTECTION
GAS EQUIPMENT OR
VENT CONNECTOR
NOTES:
"A" equals the clearance with no protection.
"B" equals the reduced clearance permitted in accordance with Table G2409.2. The protection applied to the construction using combustible material shall
extend far enough in each direction to make "C" equal to "A."
FIGURE G2409.2(1) [308.2(1)]
EXTENT OF PROTECTION NECESSARY TO REDUCE CLEARANCES FROM GAS EQUIPMENT OR VENT CONNECTORS
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
545
FUEL GAS
WALL PROTECTOR MOUNTED
WITH ALL EDGES OPEN
MOUNTED WITH SIDE
AND TOP EDGES OPEN
— MOUNTED WITH TOP
AND BOTTOM EDGES
OPEN
WALL PROTECTOR MOUNTED
ON SINGLE FLAT WALL
-nN
COMBUSTIBLE
WALL
MUST BE MOUNTED
WITH TOP AND BOTTOM
EDGES OPEN
"^
JMNCH.
AIR-
SPACE
NAIL OR SCREW
ANCHOR
- CLEARANCE
REDUCTION SYSTEM
WALL PROTECTOR INSTALLED
IN CORNER
1 -INCH NONCOMBUSTIBLE SPACER SUCH AS STACKED WASHERS, SMALL-
DIAMETER PIPE TUBING OR ELECTRICAL CONDUIT.
MASONRY WALLS CAN BE ATTACHED TO COMBUSTIBLE WALLS USING WALL TIES.
DO NOT USE SPACERS DIRECTLY EEHIND APPLIANCE OR CONNECTOR.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE G2409.2(2) [308.2(2)]
WALL PROTECTOR CLEARANCE REDUCTION SYSTEM
COMBUSTIBLE
WALL
1 INCH MINIMUM
AIRSPACE
BETWEEN
MASONRY AND
COMBUSTIBLE
WALL
CORRUGATED
METAL WALL
TIES
BOTTOM AND TOP
COURSE OF BRICKS
STAGGERED FOR
VENTILATION
A STRIP OF HEAVY- _
GAUGE STEEL USED
FOR ADDED SUPPORT
NOTE: DO NOT PLACE
MASONRY WALL TIES
DIRECTLY BEHIND
APPLIANCE OR
CONNECTOR
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE G2409.2(3) [308.2(3)]
MASONRY CLEARANCE REDUCTION SYSTEM
546
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
TABLE G2409.2 (308.2) athrou9hk
REDUCTION OF CLEARANCES WITH SPECIFIED FORMS OF PROTECTION
TYPE OF PROTECTION APPLIED TO
AND COVERING ALL SURFACES OF
COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL WITHIN THE
DISTANCE SPECIFIED AS THE REQUIRED
CLEARANCE WITH NO PROTECTION
[see Figures G2409.2(1), G2409.2(2), and G2409.2(3)]
WHERE THE REQUIRED CLEARANCE WITH NO PROTECTION FROM
APPLIANCE, VENT CONNECTOR, OR SINGLE-WALL METAL PIPE IS: (inches)
36
18
12
9
6
Allowable clearances with specified protection (inches)
Use Column 1 for clearances above appliance or horizontal connector. Use Column 2 for clearances
from appliance, vertical connector and single-wall metal pipe.
Above
Col. 1
Sides
and rear
Col. 2
Above
Col. 1
Sides
and rear
Col. 2
Above
Col. 1
Sides
and rear
Col. 2
Above
Col. 1
Sides
and rear
Col. 2
Above
Col. 1
Sides
and rear
Col. 2
1. 3'/ 2 -inch-thick masonry wall without
ventilated airspace
—
24
—
12
—
9
—
6
— -
5
2. 7,-inch insulation board over 1-inch glass
fiber or mineral wool batts
24
18
12
9
9
6
6
5
4
3
3. 0.024-inch (nominal 24 gage) sheet metal
over 1 -inch glass fiber or mineral wool batts
reinforced with wire on rear face with
ventilated airspace
18
12
9
6
6
4
5
3
3
3
4. 3'/,-inch-thick masonry wall with ventilated
airspace
—
12
—
6
—
6
—
6
—
6
5. 0.024-incb (nominal 24 gage) sheet metal
with ventilated airspace
18
12
9
6
6
4
5
3
3
2
6. 7-,-inch-thick insulation board with ventilated
airspace
18
12
9
6
6
4
5
3
3
3
7. 0.024-inch (nominal 24 gage) sheet metal
with ventilated airspace over 0.024-inch
(nominal 24 gage) sheet metal with ventilated
airspace
18
12
9
6
6
4
5
3
3
3
8. 1-inch glass fiber or mineral wool batts
sandwiched between two sheets 0.024-inch
(nominal 24 gage) sheet metal with ventilated
airspace
18
12
9
6
6
4
5
3
3
3
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, °C = [(°F- 32)/1.8l. 1 pound per cubic foot = 16.02 kg/m 3 , 1 Btu per inch per square foot per hour per °F = 0.144 W/nr ■ K.
a. Reduction of clearances from combustible materials shall not interfere with combustion air, draft hood clearance and relief, and accessibility of servicing.
b. All clearances shall be measured from the outer surface of the combustible materia] to the nearest point on the surface of the appliance, disregarding any
intervening protection applied to the combustible material.
c. Spacers and ties shall be of noncombustible material. No spacer or tie shall be used directly opposite an appliance or connector.
d. For all clearance reduction systems using a ventilated airspace, adequate provision for air circulation shall be provided as described [see Figures G2409.2(2)
andG2409.2(3)].
e. There shall be at least 1 inch between clearance reduction systems and combustible walls and ceilings for reduction systems using ventilated airspace.
f. Where a wall protector is mounted on a single flat wall away from corners, it shall have a minimum 1 -inch air gap. To provide air circulation, the bottom and
top edges, or only the side and top edges, or all edges shall be left open.
g. Mineral wool batts (blanket or board) shall have a minimum density of 8 pounds per cubic foot and a minimum melting point of 1 ,500°F.
h. Insulation material used as part of a clearance reduction system shall have a thermal conductivity of 1 .0 Btu per inch per square foot per hour per °F or less,
i. There shall be at least 1 inch between the appliance and the protector. In no case shall the clearance between the appliance and the combustible surface be
reduced below that allowed in this table,
j. All clearances and thicknesses are minimum; larger clearances and thicknesses are acceptable,
k. Listed single-wall connectors shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
547
FUEL GAS
i
G2409.3 (308.3) Clearances for indoor air-conditioning
appliances. Clearance requirements for indoor air-condition-
ing appliances shall comply with Sections G2409.3.1 through
G2409.3.4.
G2409.3.1 (308.3.1) Appliances clearances. Air-condi-
tioning appliances shall be installed with clearances in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
G2409.3.2 (308.3.2) Clearance reduction. Air-condition-
ing appliances shall be permitted to be installed with
reduced clearances to combustible material, provided that
the combustible material or appliance is protected as
described in Table G2409.2 and such reduction is allowed
by the manufacturer's instructions.
G2409.3.3 (308.3.3) Plenum clearances. Where the fur-
nace plenum is adjacent to plaster on metal lath or non-
combustible material attached to combustible material, the
clearance shall be measured to the surface of the plaster or
other noncombustible finish where the clearance specified
is 2 inches (51 mm) or less.
G2409.3.4 (308.3.4) Clearance from supply ducts. Sup-
ply air ducts connecting to listed central heating furnaces
shall have the same minimum clearance to combustibles as
required for the furnace supply plenum for a distance of
not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from the supply plenum.
Clearance is not required beyond the 3-foot (914 mm) dis-
tance.
G2409.4 (308.4) Central heating boilers and furnaces.
Clearance requirements for central-heating boilers and fur-
naces shall comply with Sections G2409.4.1 through
G2409.4.5. The clearance to these appliances shall not inter-
fere with combustion air, draft hood clearance and relief; and
accessibility for servicing.
G2409.4.1 (308.4.1) Appliances clearances. Central-
heating furnaces and low-pressure boilers shall be
installed with clearances in accordance with the manufac-
turer's instructions
G2409.4.2 (308.4.2) Clearance reduction. Central-heat-
ing furnaces and low-pressure boilers shall be permitted to
be installed with reduced clearances to combustible mate-
rial provided that the combustible material or appliance is
protected as described in Table G2409.2 and such reduc-
tion is allowed by the manufacturer's instructions.
G2409.4.3 (308.4.4) Plenum clearances. Where the fur-
nace plenum is adjacent to plaster on metal lath or non-
combustible materia] attached to combustible material, the
clearance shall be measured to the surface of the plaster or
other noncombustible finish where the clearance specified
is 2 inches (51 mm) or less.
G2409.4.4 (308.4.5) Clearance from supply ducts. Sup-
ply air ducts connecting to listed central heating furnaces
shall have the same minimum clearance to combustibles as
required for the furnace supply plenum for a distance of
not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from the supply plenum.
Clearance is not required beyond the 3-foot (914 mm) dis-
tance.
G2409.4.5 (308.4.3) Clearance for servicing appliances.
Front clearance shall be sufficient for servicing the burner
and the furnace or boiler.
SECTION G241 0(309)
ELECTRICAL
G2410.1 (309.1) Grounding. Gas piping shall not be used as
a grounding electrode.
G2410.2 (309.2) Connections. Electrical connections
between appliances and the building wiring, including the
grounding of the appliances, shall conform to Chapters 34
through 43.
SECTION G2411 (310)
ELECTRICAL BONDING
G2411.1 (310.1) Pipe and tubing other than CSST. Each
above-ground portion of a gas piping system other than corru-
gated stainless steel tubing (CSST), that is likely to become
energized shall be electrically continuous and bonded to an
effective ground-fault current path. Gas piping, other than
CSST, shall be considered to be bonded where it is connected
to appliances that are connected to the equipment grounding
conductor of the circuit supplying that appliance.
G2411.1.1 (310.1.1) CSST. Corrugated stainless steel tub-
ing (CSST) gas piping systems shall be bonded to the elec-
trical service grounding electrode system. The bonding
jumper shall connect to a metallic pipe or fitting between
the point of delivery and the first downstream CSST fit-
ting. The bonding jumper shall be not smaller than 6 AWG
copper wire or equivalent. Gas piping systems that contain
one or more segments of CSST shall be bonded in accor-
dance with this section.
SECTION G241 2 (401)
GENERAL
G2412.1 (401.1) Scope. This section shall govern the design,
installation, modification and maintenance of piping systems.
The applicability of this code to piping systems extends from
the point of delivery to the connections with the appliances
and includes the design, materials, components, fabrication,
assembly, installation, testing, inspection, operation and
maintenance of such piping systems.
G2412.1.1 (401.1.1) Utility piping systems located
within buildings. Utility service piping located within
buildings shall be installed in accordance with the struc-
tural safety and fire protection provisions of this code.
G2412.2 (401.2) Liquefied petroleum gas storage. The
storage system for liquefied petroleum gas shall be designed
and installed in accordance with the International Fire Code
andNFPA58.
G2412.3 (401.3) Modifications to existing systems. In mod-
ifying or adding to existing piping systems, sizes shall be
maintained in accordance with this chapter.
548
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
G2412.4 (401.4) Additional appliances. Where an addi-
tional appliance is to be served, the existing piping shall be
checked to determine if it has adequate capacity for all appli-
ances served. If inadequate, the existing system shall be
enlarged as required or separate piping of adequate capacity
shall be provided.
G2412.5 (401.5) Identification. For other than steel pipe,
exposed piping shall be identified by a yellow label marked
"Gas" in black letters. The marking shall be spaced at inter-
vals not exceeding 5 feet (1524 mm). The marking shall not
be required on pipe located in the same room as the appliance
served.
G2412.6 (401.6) Interconnections. Where two or more
meters are installed on the same premises, but supply separate
consumers, the piping systems shall not be interconnected on
the outlet side of the meters.
G2412.7 (401.7) Piping meter identification. Piping from
multiple meter installations shall be marked with an approved
permanent identification by the installer so that the piping
system supplied by each meter is readily identifiable.
G2412.8 (401.8) Minimum sizes. All pipe utilized for the
installation, extension and alteration of any piping system
shall be sized to supply the full number of outlets for the
intended purpose and shall be sized in accordance with Sec-
tion G24 13.
G2412.9 (401.9) Identification. Each length of pipe and tub-
ing and each pipe fitting, utilized in a fuel gas system, shall
bear the identification of the manufacturer.
G2412.10 (401.10) Third-party testing and certification.
All piping, tubing and fittings shall comply with the applica-
ble referenced standards, specifications and performance cri-
teria of this code and shall be identified in accordance with
Section G2412.9. Piping, tubing and fittings shall either be
tested by an approved third-party testing agency or certified
by an approved third-party certification agency.
SECTION G241 3 (402)
PIPE SIZING
G2413.1 (402.1) General considerations. Piping systems
shall be of such size and so installed as to provide a supply of
gas sufficient to meet the maximum demand and supply gas
to each appliance inlet at not less than the minimum supply
pressure required by the appliance.
G2413.2 (402.2) Maximum gas demand. The volumetric
flow rate of gas to be provided, in cubic feet per hour, shall be
calculated using the manufacturer's input ratings of the appli-
ances served adjusted for altitude. Where an input rating is
not indicated, the gas supplier, appliance manufacturer or a
qualified agency shall be contacted, or the rating from Table
G2413.2 shall be used for estimating the volumetric flow rate
of gas to be supplied.
The total connected hourly load shall be used as the basis
for pipe sizing, assuming that all appliances could be operat-
ing at full capacity simultaneously. Where a diversity of load
can be established, pipe sizing shall be permitted to be based
on such loads.
G2413.3 (402.3) Sizing. Gas piping shall be sized in accor-
dance with one of the following:
1. Pipe sizing tables or sizing equations in accordance
with Section G241 3.4.
2. The sizing tables included in a listed piping system's
manufacturer's installation instructions.
3. Other approved engineering methods.
TABLE G2413.2 (402.2)
APPROXIMATE GAS INPUT FOR TYPICAL APPLIANCES
APPLIANCE
INPUT BTU/H
(Approx.)
Space Heating Units
Hydronic boiler
Single family
100,000
Multifamily, per unit
60,000
Warm-air furnace
Single family
100,000
Multifamily, per unit
60,000
Space and Water Heating Units
Hydronic boiler
Single family
120,000
Multifamily, per unit
75,000
Water Heating Appliances
Water heater, automatic instantaneous
Capacity at 2 gal ./minute
142,800
Capacity at 4 gal./minute
285,000
Capacity at 6 gal./minute
428,400
Water heater, automatic storage, 30- to 40-gal. tank
35,000
Water heater, automatic storage, 50-gal. tank
50,000
Water heater, domestic, circulating or side-arm
35,000
Cooking Appliances
Built-in oven or broiler unit, domestic
25,000
Built-in top unit, domestic
40,000
Range, free-standing, domestic
65,000
Other Appliances
Barbecue
40,000
Clothes dryer, Type 1 (domestic)
35,000
Gas fireplace, direct-vent
40,000
Gas light
2,500
Gas log
80,000
Refrigerator
3,000
For SI: 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.293 W, 1 gallon ;
1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m.
: 3.785 L,
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
549
FUEL GAS
G2413.4 (402.4) Sizing tables and equations. Where Tables
G2413.4(l) through G241 3.4(21) are used to size piping or
tubing, the pipe length shall be determined in accordance
with Section G2413.4.1, G2413.4.2 or G241 3.4.3.
Where Equations 24-3 and 24-4 are used to size piping or
tubing, the pipe or tubing shall have smooth inside walls and
the pipe length shall be determined in accordance with Sec-
tion G2413.4.1, G2413.4.2 orG2413.4.3.
1. Low-pressure gas equation [Less than 1.5 pounds per
square inch (psi) (10.3 kPa)]:
D =
e
,0.381
19.17
AH
C,.x
0.206
(Equation 24-3)
2. High-pressure gas equation [1.5 psi (10.3 kPa) and
above]:
D
Q
0.381
18.93
{P\-Pj)xY
C,. x L
o.:o6
(Equation 24-4)
where:
D
Q
P,
P 2
L
AH
= Inside diameter of pipe, inches (mm).
= Input rate appliance(s), cubic feet per hour at 60°F
(16°C) and 30-inch mercury column.
= Upstream pressure, psia (P, + 14.7).
= Downstream pressure, psia (P 2 + 14.7).
— Equivalent length of pipe, feet.
= Pressure drop, inch water column (27.7 inch water
column = 1 psi).
TABLE G241 3.4 (402.4)
C, AND /VALUES FOR NATURAL GAS AND UNDILUTED
PROPANE AT STANDARD CONDITIONS
GAS
EQUATION FACTORS
C r
Y
Natural gas
0.6094
0.9992
Undiluted propane
l .2462
0.9910
For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.028 nr\ 1 foot = 305 mm,
1 inch water column = 0.249 kPa,
1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa,
1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.293 W.
G2413.4.1 (402.4.1) Longest length method. The pipe
size of each section of gas piping shall be determined
using the longest length of piping from the point of deliv-
ery to the most remote outlet and the load of the section.
G2413.4.2 (402.4.2) Branch length method. Pipe shall
be sized as follows:
1 . Pipe size of each section of the longest pipe run
from the point of deliver}' to the most remote outlet
shall be determined using the longest run of piping
and the load of the section.
2. The pipe size of each section of branch piping not
previously sized shall be determined using the
length of piping from the point of delivery to the
most remote outlet in each branch and the load of
the section.
G2413.4.3 (402.4.3) Hybrid pressure. The pipe size for
each section of higher pressure gas piping shall be deter-
mined using the longest length of piping from the point of
delivery to the most remote line pressure regulator. The
pipe size from the line pressure regulator to each outlet
shall be determined using the length of piping from the
regulator to the most remote outlet served by the regula-
tor.
G2413.5 (402.5) Allowable pressure drop. The design pres-
sure loss in any piping system under maximum probable flow
conditions, from the point of delivery to the inlet connection
of the appliance, shall be such that the supply pressure at the
appliance is greater than or equal to the minimum pressure
required by the appliance.
G2413.6 (402.6) Maximum design operating pressure. The
maximum design operating pressure for piping systems
located inside buildings shall not exceed 5 pounds per square
inch gauge (psig) (34 kPa gauge) except where one or more
of the following conditions are met:
1 . The piping system is welded.
2. The piping is located in a ventilated chase or otherwise
enclosed for protection against accidental gas accumu-
lation.
3. The piping is a temporary installation for buildings
under construction.
G2413.6.1 (402.6.1) Liquefied petroleum gas systems.
LP-gas systems designed to operate below -5°F (-21°C) or
with butane or a propane-butane mix shall be designed to
either accommodate liquid LP-gas or prevent LP-gas
vapor from condensing into a liquid.
SECTION G241 4 (403)
PIPING MATERIALS
G2414.1 (403.1) General. Materials used for piping systems
shall comply with the requirements of this chapter or shall be
approved.
G2414.2 (403.2) Used materials. Pipe, fittings, valves or
other materials shall not be used again unless they are free of
foreign materials and have been ascertained to be adequate
for the service intended.
G2414.3 (403.3) Other materials. Material not covered by
the standards specifications listed herein shall be investigated
and tested to determine that it is safe and suitable for the pro-
posed service, and, in addition, shall be recommended for that
service by the manufacturer and shall be approved by the
code official.
G2414.4 (403.4) Metallic pipe. Metallic pipe shall comply
with Sections G2414.4.1 and G2414.4.2.
G2414.4.1 (403.4.1) Cast iron. Cast-iron pipe shall not be
used.
550
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
TABLE G241 3.4(1) [402.4(2)]
SCHEDULE 40 METALLIC PIPE
Gas
Natural
Inlet Pressure
Less than 2 psi
Pressure Drop
0.5 in. w.c.
Specific Gravity
0.60
PIPE SIZE
(inch)
Nominal
'':
%
1
1'/.,
i'4
2
2'/,
3
4
5
6
8
10
12
Actual ID
0.622
0.824
1.049
1.380
1.610
2.067
2.469
3.068
4.026
5.047
6.065
7.981
10.020
11.938
Length (ft)
Capacity in Cu
sic Feet of Gas per
Hour
10
172
360
678
1,390
2,090
4,020
6,400
11,300
23,100
41,800
67,600
139,000
252,000
399,000
20
118
247
466
957
1,430
2,760
4,400
7,780
15,900
28,700
46,500
95,500
173,000
275,000
30
95
199
374
768
1,150
2,220
3,530
6,250
12,700
23,000
37,300
76,700
139,000
220,000
40
81
170
320
657
985
1,900
3,020
5,350
10,900
19,700
3 1 ,900
65,600
119,000
189,000
50
72
151
284
583
873
1,680
2,680
4,740
9,660
17,500
28,300
58,200
106,000
167,000
60
65
137
257
528
791
1,520
2,430
4,290
8,760
15,800
25,600
52,700
95,700
152,000
70
60
126
237
486
728
1,400
2,230
3,950
8,050
14,600
23,600
48,500
88,100
139,000
80
56
117
220
452
677
1,300
2,080
3,670
7,490
13,600
22,000
45,100
81,900
130,000
90
52
110
207
424
635
1,220
1,950
3,450
7,030
1 2,700
20,600
42,300
76,900
122,000
100
50
104
195
400
600
1,160
1,840
3,260
6,640
12,000
19,500
40,000
72,600
115,000
125
44
92
173
355
532
1,020
1,630
2,890
5,890
10.600
17,200
35,400
64,300
102,000
150
40
83
157
322
482
928
1,480
2,610
5,330
9,650
15,600
32,100
58,300
92,300
175
37
77
144
296
443
854
1,360
2,410
4.910
8.880
14,400
29,500
53,600
84,900
200
34
71
134
275
412
794
1,270
2,240
4,560
8,260
13,400
27,500
49,900
79,000
250
30
63
119
244
366
704
1,120
1,980
4,050
7,320
11,900
24,300
44,200
70,000
300
27
57
108
221
331
638
1,020
1,800
3,670
6,630
10,700
22,100
40,100
63,400
350
25
53
99
203
305
587
935
1,650
3,370
6,100
9,880
20,300
36,900
58,400
400
23
49
92
189
283
546
870
1,540
3,140
5,680
9,190
18,900
34,300
54,300
450
22
46
86
177
266
512
816
1,440
2,940
5,330
8,620
17,700
32,200
50,900
500
21
43
82
168
251
484
771
1 .360
2,780
5,030
8,150
1 6,700
30,400
48,100
550
20
41
78
159
239
459
732
1,290
2,640
4,780
7,740
15,900
28,900
45,700
600
19
39
74
152
228
438
699
1,240
2,520
4,560
7,380
15,200
27,500
43,600
650
18
38
71
145
218
420
669
1,180
2,410
4,360
7,070
14,500
26,400
41,800
700
17
36
68
140
209
403
643
1,140
2,320
4,190
6,790
14,000
25,300
40,100
750
17
35
66
135
202
389
619
1,090
2,230
4,040
6,540
13,400
24,400
38,600
800
16
34
63
130
195
375
598
1,060
2,160
3,900
6,320
13,000
23,600
37,300
850
16
33
61
126
189
363
579
1,020
2,090
3,780
6,110
12,600
22,800
36,100
900
15
32
59
122
183
352
561
992
2,020
3,660
5,930
12,200
22,100
35,000
950
15
31
58
118
178
342
545
963
1,960
3,550
5,760
11,800
21,500
34,000
1,000
14
30
56
115
173
333
530
937
1,910
3,460
5,600
1 1 ,500
20,900
33,100
1,100
14
28
53
109
164
316
503
890
1,810
3,280
5,320
10,900
19,800
31,400
1,200
13
27
51
104
156
301
480
849
1,730
3,130
5,070
10,400
18,900
30,000
1,300
12
26
49
100
150
289
460
813
1,660
3,000
4,860
9,980
18,100
28,700
1,400
12
25
47
96
144
277
442
781
1,590
2,880
4,670
9,590
17,400
27,600
1,500
11
24
45
93
139
267
426
752
1,530
2,780
4,500
9,240
16,800
26,600
1,600
11
23
44
89
134
258
411
727
1,480
2,680
4,340
8,920
16,200
25,600
1,700
11
22
42
86
130
250
398
703
1,430
2,590
4,200
8,630
15,700
24,800
1,800
10
22
41
84
126
242
386
682
1,390
2,520
4,070
8,370
15,200
24,100
1,900
10
21
40
81
122
235
375
662
1,350
2,440
3,960
8,130
14,800
23,400
2,000
NA
20
39
79
119
229
364
644
1,310
2,380
3,850
7,910
14,400
22,700
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 fool = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.
1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour =
Notes:
1 . NA means a flow of less than 10 cfh.
2. All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
895 kPa, I -inch water column = 0.2488
0.0283 m7h, I degree = 0.01745 rad.
kPa,
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
551
FUEL GAS
TABLE G241 3.4(2) [402.4(5)]
SCHEDULE 40 METALLIC PIPE
Gas
Natural
Inlet Pressure
2.0 psi
Pressure Drop
1.0 psi
Specific Gravity
0.60
PIPE SIZE (inch)
Nominal
'>i
-y,
1
l'/ 4
IV,
2 i 2 1 /,
3
4
Actual ID
0.622
0.824
1.049
1.380
1.610
2.067
2.469
3.068
4.026
Length (ft)
Capacity in Cubic Feet of Gas per Hour
JO
1,510
3,040
5,560
11,400
17,100
32,900
52,500
92,800
189,000
20
1,070
2,150
3,930
8,070
12,100
23,300
37,100
65,600
134,000
30
869
1,760
3,210
6,590
9,880
19,000
30,300
53,600
109,000
40
753
1,520
2,780
5,710
8,550
16,500
26,300
46,400
94,700
50
673
1,360
2,490
5,110
7,650
14,700
23,500
41,500
84,700
60
615
1,240
2,270
4,660
6,980
13,500
21,400
37,900
77,300
70
569
1,150
2,100
4,320
6,470
12,500
19,900
35,100
71,600
80
532
1,080
1,970
4,040
6,050
1 1 ,700
18,600
32,800
67,000
90
502
1,010
1,850
3,810
5,700
11,000
17,500
30,900
63,100
100
462
934
1,710
3,510
5,260
10,100
16,100
28,500
58,200
125
414
836
1 ,530
3,140
4,700
9,060
14,400
25,500
52,100
150
372
751
1,370
2,820
4,220
8,130
13,000
22,900
46,700
175
344
695
1,270
2,601
3,910
7,530
12,000
21,200
43,300
200
318
642
1,170
2,410
3,610
6,960
11,100
19,600
40,000
250
279
583
1,040
2,140
3,210
6,180
9,850
1 7,400
35,500
300
253
528
945
1,940
2,910
5,600
8,920
15,800
32,200
350
232
486
869
1,790
2,670
5,150
8,210
14,500
29,600
400
216
452
809
1,660
2,490
4,790
7,640
13,500
27,500
450
203
424
759
1,560
2,330
4,500
7,170
12,700
25,800
500
192
401
717
1,470
2,210
4,250
6,770
12,000
24,400
550
182
381
681
1,400
2,090
4,030
6,430
11,400
23,200
600
174
363
650
1,330
2,000
3,850
6,130
10,800
22,100
650
166
348
622
1,280
1,910
3,680
5,870
10,400
21,200
700
160
334
598
1,230
1,840
3,540
5,640
9,970
20,300
750
154
322
576
1,180
1,770
3,410
5,440
9,610
19,600
800
149
311
556
1,140
1,710
3,290
5,250
9,280
1 8,900
850
144
301
538
1,100
1,650
3,190
5,080
8,980
18,300
900
139
292
522
1,070
1,600
3,090
4,930
8,710
17,800
950
135
283
507
1,040
1,560
3,000
4,780
8,460
17,200
1,000
132
275
493
1,010
1,520
2,920
4,650
8,220
16,800
1,100
125
262
468
960
1,440
2,770
4,420
7,810
15,900
1,200
119
250
446
917
1,370
2,640
4,220
7,450
15,200
1,300
114
239
427
878
1,320
2,530
4,040
7,140
14,600
1,400
110
230
411
843
1,260
2,430
3,880
6,860
14,000
1,500
106
221
396
812
1,220
2,340
3,740
6,600
13,500
1,600
102
214
382
784
1,180
2,260
3,610
6,380
13,000
1,700
99
207
370
759
1,140
2,190
3,490
6,170
12,600
1,800
96
200
358
736
1,100
2,120
3,390
5,980
12,200
1,900
93
195
348
715
1,070
2,060
3,290
5,810
11,900
2,000
91
189
339
695
1,040
2,010
3,200
5,650
11,500
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot
1 British thermal unit per
Note: All table entries have been
= 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 -inch water column = 0.2488
hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m : 7h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
rounded to three significant digits.
kPa,
552
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
TABLE G241 3.4(3) [402.4(9)]
SEMIRIGID COPPER TUBING
Gas
Natural
Inlet Pressure
Less than 2 psi
Pressure Drop
0.5 in. w.c.
Specific Gravity
0.60
TUBE SIZE (inch)
Nominal
K&L
'/„
L Va
V,
X
■7 4
1
i %
l'/ 2
2
ACR
%
'/,
%
%
'/,
1'/.
1%
—
—
Outside
0.375
0.500
0.625
0.750
0.875
1.125
1.375
1.625
2.125
Inside
0.305
0.402
0.527
0.652
0.745
0.995
1 .245
1.481
1.959
Length (ft)
Capacity in Cubic Feet of Gas per Hour
10
27
55
111
195
276
590
1,060
1,680
3,490
20
18
38
77
134
190
406
730
1,150
2,400
30
15
30
61
107
152
326
586
925
1,930
40
13
26
53
92
131
279
502
791
1,650
50
n
23
47
82
116
247
445
701
1,460
60
10
21
42
74
105
224
403
635
1,320
70
NA
19
39
68
96
206
371
585
1,220
80
NA
18
36
63
90
192
345
544
1,130
90
NA
17
34
59
84
180
324
510
1,060
1 00
NA
16
32
56
79
170
306
482
1,000
125
NA
14
28
50
70
151
271
427
890
150
NA
13
26
45
64
136
245
387
806
175
NA
12
24
41
59
125
226
356
742
200
NA
11
22
39
55
117
210
331
690
250
NA
NA
20
34
48
103
186
294
612
300
NA
NA
18
31
44
94
169
266
554
350
NA
NA
16
28
40
86
155
245
510
400
NA
NA
15
26
38
80
144
228
474
450
NA
NA
14
25
35
75
135
214
445
500
NA
NA
13
23
33
71
128
202
420
550
NA
NA
13
22
32
68
122
192
399
600
NA
NA
12
21
30
64
116
183
381
650
NA
NA
12
20
29
62
111
175
365
700
NA
NA
11
20 "^
28
59
107
168
350
750
NA
NA
11
19
27
57
103
162
338
800
NA
NA
10
18
26
55
99
156
326
850
NA
NA
10
18
25
53
96
151
315
900
NA
NA
NA
17
24
52
93
147
306
950
NA
NA
NA
17
24
50
90
143
297
1,000
NA
NA
NA
16
23
49
88
139
289
1,100
NA
NA
NA
15
22
46
84
132
274
1,200
NA
NA
NA
15
21
44
80
126
262
1,300
NA
NA
NA
14
20
42
76
120
251
1,400
NA
NA
NA
13
19
41
73
116
241
1,500
NA
NA
NA
13
18
39
71
111
232
1,600
NA
NA
NA
13
18
38
68
108
224
1,700
NA
NA
NA
12
17
37
66
104
217
1,800
NA
NA
NA
12
17
36
64
101
210
1,900
NA
NA
NA
11
16
35
62
98
204
2,000
NA
NA
NA
11
16
34
60
95
199
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa,
1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m7h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
1 . Table capacities are based on Type K copper tubing inside diameter (shown), which has the smallest inside diameter of
2. NA means a flow of less than 10 cfh.
3. All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
the copper tubing products.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE" 5
553
FUEL GAS
TABLE G241 3.4(4) [402.4(12)]
SEMIRIGID COPPER TUBING
Gas
Natural
Inlet Pressure
2.0 psi
Pressure Drop
1.0 psi
Specific Gravity
0.60
TUBE SIZE (inch)
Nominal
K&L
'1,
X
'/,
X
X
1
l'/ 4
1'/,
2
ACR
X
'li
%
X
X
l'/ 8
1%
—
—
Outside
0.375
0.500
0.625
0.750
0.875
1.125
1.375
1.625
2.125
Inside
0.305
0.402
0.527
0.652
0.745
0.995
1.245
1.481
1.959
Length (ft)
Capacity in Cubic Feet of Gas per Hour
10
245
506
1,030
1,800
2,550
5,450
9,820
15,500
32,200
20
169
348
708
1,240
1,760
3,750
6,750
10,600
22,200
30
135
279
568
993
1,410
3,010
5,420
8,550
17,800
40
116
239
486
850
1,210
2,580
4,640
7,310
15,200
50
103
212
431
754
1,070
2,280
4,110
6,480
13,500
60
93
192
391
683
969
2,070
3,730
5,870
12,200
70
86
177
359
628
891
1,900
3,430
5,400
11,300
80
80
164
334
584
829
1,770
3,190
5,030
10,500
90
75
154
314
548
778
1 ,660
2,990
4,720
9,820
1 00
71
146
296
518
735
1,570
2,830
4,450
9,280
1 25
63
129
263
459
651
1,390
2,500
3,950
8,220
150
57
117
238
416
590
1,260
2,270
3,580
7,450
175
52
108
219
383
543
1,160
2,090
3,290
6,850
200
49
100
204
356
505
1 ,080
1,940
3,060
6.380
250
43
89
181
315
448
956
1,720
2,710
5,650
300
39
80
164
286
406
866
1,560
2,460
5,120
350
36
74
150
263
373
797
1,430
2,260
4,710
400
33
69
140
245
347
741
1,330
2,100
4,380
450
31
65
131
230
326
696
1,250
1,970
4,110
500
30
61
124
217
308
657
1,180
1,870
3,880
550
28
58
118
206
292
624
1,120
1,770
3,690
600
27
55
1)2
196
279
595
1 ,070
1,690
3,520
650
26
53
108
188
267
570
1,030
1,620
3,370
700
25
51
103
181
256
548
986
1,550
3,240
750
24
49
100
174
247
528
950
1,500
3,120
800
23
47
96
168
239
510
917
1,450
3,010
850
22
46
93
163
231
493
888
1,400
2,920
900
22
44
90
158
224
478
861
1,360
2,830
950
21
43
88
153
217
464
836
1,320
2,740
1,000
20
42
85
149
211
452
813
1,280
2,670
1,100
19
40
81
142
201
429
772
1,220
2,540
1,200
18
38
77
135
192
409
737
1,160
2,420
1,300
18
36
74
129
183
392
705
1,110
2,320
1,400
17
35
71
124
176
376
678
1,070
2,230
1,500
16
34
68
120
170
363
653
1,030
2,140
1,600
16
33
66
116
164
350
630
994
2,070
1,700
15
31
64
112
159
339
610
962
2,000
1,800
15
30
62
108
154
329
592
933
1,940
1.900
14
30
60
105
149
319
575
906
1,890
2,000
14
29
59
102
145
310
559
881
1,830
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa,
1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m 3 /h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
1 . Table capacities are based on Type K copper tubing inside diameter (shown), which has the smallest inside diameter of the copper tubing products.
2. All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
554
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
TABLE G241 3.4(5) [402.4(15)]
CORRUGATED STAINLESS STEEL TUBING (CSST)
Gas
Natural
Inlet Pressure
Less than 2 psi
Pressure Drop
0.5 in. w.c.
Specific Gravity
0.60
TUBE SIZE (EHD)
Flow
Designation
13
15
18
19
23
25
30
31
37
39
46
48
60
62
Length (ft)
Capacity in Cubic Feet of Gas per Hour
5
46
63
115
134
225
270
471
546
895
1,037
1,790
2,070
3,660
4,140
10
32
44
82
95
161
192
330
383
639
746
1 ,260
1,470
2,600
2,930
15
25
35
66
77
132
157
267
310
524
615
1,030
1,200
2,140
2,400
20
22
31
58
67
116
137
231
269
456
536
888
1,050
1,850
2,080
25
19
27
52
60
104
122
206
240
409
482
793
936
1,660
1,860
30
18
25
47
55
96
112
188
218
374
442
723
856
1,520
1,700
40
15
21
41
47
83
97
162
188
325
386
625
742
1,320
1.470
50
13
19
37
42
75
87
144
168
292
347
559
665
1,180
1,320
60
12
17
34
38
68
80
131
153
267
318
509
608
1,080
1,200
70
11
16
31
36
63
74
121
141
248
295
471
563
1,000
1,110
80
10
15
29
33
60
69
113
132
232
277
440
527
940
1,040
90
10
14
28
32
57
65
107
125
219
262
415
498
887
983
100
9
13
26
30
54
62
101
118
208
249
393
472
843
933
150
7
10
20
23
42
48
78
91
171
205
320
387
691
762
200
6
9
18
21
38
44
71
82
148
179
277
336
600
661
250
5
8
16
19
34
39
63
74
133
161
247
301
538
591
300
5
7
15
17
32
36
57
67
95
148
226
275
492
540
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa,
1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m 3 /h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
1. Table includes losses for four 90-degree bends and two end fittings. Tubing runs with larger numbers of bends and/or fittings shall be increased by an
equivalent length of tubing to the following equation: L = 1 3n, where L is additional length (feet) of tubing and n is the number of additional fittings and/or
bends.
2. EHD— Equivalent Hydraulic Diameter, which is a measure of the relative hydraulic efficiency between different tubing sizes. The greater the value of EHD,
the greater the gas capacity of the tubing.
3. All table entries have been rounded to three significant: digits.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
555
FUEL GAS
TABLE G241 3.4(6) [402.4(18)]
CORRUGATED STAINLESS STEEL TUBING (CSST)
Gas
Natural
Inlet Pressure
2.0 psi
Pressure Drop
1.0 psi
Specific Gravity
0.60
TUBE SIZE (EHD)
Flow
Designation
13
15
18 19
23
25
30
31
37
39
46
48
60
62
Length (ft)
Capacity in Cubic Feet of Gas Per Hour
10
270
353
587
700
1,100
1,370
2,590
2,990
4,510
5,037
9,600
10,700
18,600
21,600
25
166
220
374
444
709
876
1,620
1,870
2,890
3,258
6,040
6,780
11,900
13,700
30
151
200
342
405
650
801
1,480
1,700
2,640
2,987
5,510
6,200
10,900
12,500
40
129
172
297
351
567
696
1,270
1,470
2,300
2,605
4,760
5,380
9,440
10,900
50
115
154
266
314
510
624
1,140
1,310
2,060
2,343
4,260
4,820
8,470
9,720
75
93
124
218
257
420
512
922
1,070
1,690
1,932
3,470
3,950
6,940
7,940
80
89
120
211
249
407
496
892
1,030
1,640
1,874
3,360
3,820
6,730
7,690
100
79
107
189
222
366
445
795
920
1,470
1,685
3,000
3,420
6,030
6,880
150
64
87
155
182
302
364
646
748
1,210
1,389
2,440
2,800
4,940
5,620
200
55
75
135
157
263
317
557
645
1,050
1,212
2, 1 10
2,430
4,290
4,870
250
49
67
121
141
236
284
497
576
941
1,090
1,890
2,180
3,850
4,360
300
44
61
110
129
217
260
453
525
862
999
1,720
1,990
3,520
3,980
400
38
52
96
111
189
225
390
453
749
871
1,490
1,730
3,060
3,450
500
34
46
86
100
170
202
348
404
552
783
1,330
1,550
2,740
3,090
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa,
1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m 3 /h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
1 . Table does not include effect of pressure drop across the line regulator. Where regulator loss exceeds 7 4 psi, DO NOT USE THIS TABLE. Consult with the
regulator manufacturer for pressure drops and capacity factors. Pressure drops across a regulator can vary with flow rate.
2. CAUTION: Capacities shown in the table might exceed maximum capacity for a selected regulator. Consult with the regulator or tubing manufacturer for
guidance.
3. Table includes losses for four 90-degree bends and two end fittings. Tubing runs with larger numbers of bends and/or fittings shall be increased by an
equivalent length of tubing to the following equation: L = 1 3n where L is additional length (feet) of tubing and n is the number of additional fittings and/or
bends.
4. EHD — Equivalent Hydraulic Diameter, which is a measure of the relative hydraulic efficiency between different tubing sizes. The greater the value of EHD,
the greater the gas capacity of the tubing.
5. All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
556
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
TABLE G241 3.4(7) [402.4(21)]
POLYETHYLENE PLASTIC PIPE
Gas
Natural
Inlet Pressure
Less than 2 psi
Pressure Drop
0.5 in. w.c.
Specific Gravity
0.60
PIPE SIZE (in.)
Nominal OD
7 2
X
1
l'/ 4
\%
2
Designation
SDR 9.33
SDR 11.0
SDR 11.00
SDR 10.00
SDR 1 1 .00
SDR 1 1 .00
Actual ID
0.660
0.860
1.077
1.328
1.554
1.943
Length (ft)
Capacity in Cubic Feet of Gas per Hour
10
201
403
726
1,260
1,900
3,410
20
138
277
499
865
1,310
2,350
30
111
222
401
695
1,050
1,880
40
95
190
343
594
898
1,610
50
84
169
304
527
796
1,430
60
76
153
276
477
721
1,300
70
70
140
254
439
663
1,190
80
65
131
236
409
617
1,110
90
61
123
221
383
579
1,040
100
58
116
209
362
547
983
125
51
103
185
321
485
871
150
46
93
168
291
439
789
175
43
86
154
268
404
726
200
40
80
144
249
376
675
250
35
71
127
221
333
598
300
32
64
115
200
302
542
350
29
59
106
184
278
499
400
27
55
99
171
258
464
450
26
51
93
160
242
435
500
24
48
88
152
229
411
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa,
1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m 3 /h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Note: All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
557
FUEL GAS
TABLE G241 3.4(8) [402.4(22)]
POLYETHYLENE PLASTIC PIPE
Gas
Natural
Inlet Pressure
2.0 psi
Pressure Drop
1.0 psi
Specific Gravity
0.60
PIPE SIZE (in.)
Nominal OD
''2
%
1
1''4
1 V,
2
Designation
SDR 9.33
SDR 11.0
SDR 11.00
SDR 10.00
SDR 1 1 .00
SDR 1 1 .00
Actual ID
0.660
0.860
1.077
1.328
1.554
1.943
Length (ft)
Capacity in Cubic Feet of Gas per Hour
10
1,860
3,720
6,710
11,600
17,600
31,600
20
1,280
2,560
4,610
7,990
12,100
21,700
30
1,030
2,050
3,710
6,420
9,690
17,400
40
878
1,760
3,170
5,490
8,300
14,900
50
778
1,560
2,810
4,870
7,350
13,200
60
705
1,410
2,550
4,410
6,660
12,000
70
649
1,300
2,340
4,060
6,130
] 1,000
80
603
1,210
2,180
3,780
5,700
10,200
90
566
1,130
2,050
3,540
5,350
9,610
100
535
1,070
1,930
3,350
5,050
9,080
125
474
949
1,710
2,970
4,480
8,050
150
429
860
1,550
2,690
4,060
7,290
175
395
791
1,430
2,470
3,730
6,710
200
368
736
1,330
2,300
3,470
6,240
250
326
652
1,180
2,040
3,080
5,530
300
295
591
1,070
1,850
2,790
5,010
350
272
544
981
1,700
2,570
4,610
400
253
506
913
1,580
2,390
4,290
450
237
475
856
1,480
2,240
4,020
500
224
448
809
1,400
2,120
3,800
550
213
426
768
1,330
2,010
3,610
600
203
406
733
1,270
1,920
3,440
650
194
389
702
1,220
1,840
3,300
700
187
374
674
1,170
1,760
3,170
750
180
360
649
1,130
1,700
3,050
800
174
348
627
1,090
1,640
2,950
850
168
336
607
1,050
1,590
2,850
900
163
326
588
1,020
1,540
2,770
950
158
317
572
990
1,500
2,690
1,000
154
308
556
963
1,450
2,610
1,100
146
293
528
915
1,380
2,480
1,200
139
279
504
873
1,320
2,370
1,300
134
267
482
836
1,260
2,270
1 ,400
128
257
463
803
1,210
2,180
1,500
124
247
446
773
1,170
2,100
1,600
119
239
431
747
1,130
2,030
1,700
115
231
417
723
1,090
1,960
1,800
112
224
404
701
1,060
1,900
1,900
109
218
393
680
1,030
1,850
2,000
106
212
382
662
1,000
1,800
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot :
.1 British thermal unit per
Note: All table entries have been
= 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6
hour = 0.293 1 W, 1 cubic foot per hour =
rounded to three significant digits.
895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488
0.0283 nvTh, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
kPa,
558
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
FUEL GAS
TABLE G241 3.4(9) [402.4(25]
SCHEDULE 40 METALLIC PIPE
Gas
Undiluted Propane
Inlet Pressure
10.0 psi
Pressure Drop
1 .0 psi
Specific Gravity
1.50
INTENDED USE
Pipe sizing between first stage (high-pressure regulator) and second stage (low-pressure regulator).
PIPE SIZE (in.)
Nominal
\
%
1
l'/ 4
1V 2
2
27,
3
4
Actual ID
0.622
0.824
1.049
1.380
1.610
2.067
2.469
3.068
4.026
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
3,320
6,950
13,100
26,900
40,300
77,600
124,000
219,000
446,000
20
2,280
4,780
9,000
18,500
27,700
53,300
85,000
150,000
306,000
30
1,830
3,840
7,220
14,800
22,200
42,800
68,200
121,000
246,000
40
1,570
3,280
6,180
12,700
19,000
36,600
58,400
103,000
211,000
50
1,390
2,910
5,480
11,300
16,900
32,500
51,700
91,500
1 87,000
60
1,260
2,640
4,970
10,200
15,300
29,400
46,900
82,900
169,000
70
1,160
2,430
4,570
9,380
14,100
27,100
43,100
76,300
156,000
80
1,080
2,260
4,250
8,730
13,100
25,200
40,100
70,900
145,000
90
1,010
2,120
3,990
8,190
12,300
23,600
37,700
66,600
136,000
100
956
2,000
3,770
7,730
11,600
22,300
35,600
62,900
128,000
125
848
1,770
3,340
6,850
10,300
19,800
31,500
55,700
114,000
150
768
1,610
3,020
6,210
9,300
17,900
28,600
50,500
103,000
175
706
1,480
2,780
5,710
8,560
16,500
26,300
46,500
94,700
200
657
1,370
2,590
5,320
7,960
15,300
24,400
43,200
88,100
250
582
1,220
2,290
4,710
7,060
13,600
21,700
38,300
78,100
300
528
1,100
2,080
4,270
6,400
12,300
19,600
34,700
70,800
350
486
1,020
1,910
3,930
5,880
1 1 ,300
18,100
31,900
65,100
400
452
945
1,780
3,650
5,470
10,500
16,800
29,700
60,600
450
424
886
1,670
3,430
5,140
9,890
15,800
27,900
56,800
500
400
837
1,580
3,240
4,850
9,340
14,900
26,300
53,700
550
380
795
1,500
3,070
4,610
8,870
14,100
25,000
51,000
600
363
759
1,430
2,930
4,400
8,460
13,500
23,900
48,600
650
347
726
1,370
2,810
4,210
8,110
12,900
22,800
46,600
700
334
698
1,310
2,700
4,040
7,790
12,400
21,900
44,800
750
321
672
1,270
2,600
3,900
7,500
12,000
21,100
43,100
800
310
649
1,220
2,510
3,760
7,240
11,500
20,400
41,600
850
300
628
1,180
2,430
3,640
7,010
1 1,200
19,800
40,300
900
291
609
1,150
2,360
3,530
6,800
10,800
19,200
39,100
950
283
592
1,110
2,290
3,430
6,600
10,500
18,600
37,900
1,000
275
575
1,080
2,230
3,330
6,420
10,200
18,100
36,900
1,100
261
546
1,030
2,110
3,170
6,100
9,720
17,200
35,000
1,200
249
521
982
2,020
3,020
5,820
9,270
16,400
33,400
1,300
239
499
940
1,930
2,890
5,570
8,880
15,700
32,000
1,400
229
480
903
1,850
2,780
5,350
8,530
15,100
30,800
1,500
221
462
870
1,790
2,680
5,160
8,220
14,500
29,600
1,600
213
446
840
1,730
2,590
4,980
7,940
14,000
28,600
1,700
206
432
813
1,670
2,500
4,820
7,680
13,600
27,700
1,800
200
419
789
1,620
2,430
4,670
7,450
13,200
26,900
1,900
194
407
766
1,570
2,360
4,540
7,230
12,800
26,100
2,000
189
395
745
1,530
2,290
4,410
7,030
12,400
25,400
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot
1 British thermal unit per
Note: All table entries have been
= 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa,
hour = 0.293 1 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m 3 /h, 1 degree = 0.0 1745 rad.
rounded to three significant digits.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
559
FUEL GAS
TABLE G241 3.4(10) [402.4(26)]
SCHEDULE 40 METALLIC PIPE
Gas
Undiluted Propane
Inlet Pressure
10.0 psi
Pressure Drop
3.0 psi
Specific Gravity
1.50
INTENDED USE
Pipe sizing between first stage (high-pressure regulator) and second stage (low-pressure regulator).
PIPE SIZE (in)
Nominal
%
%
1
l'/ 4
l'/ 2
2
2'/ 2
3
4
Actual ID
0.622
0.824
1.049
1.380
1.610
2.067
2.469
3.068
4.026
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
5,890
12,300
23,200
47,600
71,300
137,000
219,000
387,000
789,000
20
4,050
8,460
15,900
32,700
49,000
94,400
150,000
266,000
543,000
30
3,250
6,790
12,800
26,300
39,400
75,800
121,000
214,000
436,000
40
2,780
5,810
11,000
22,500
33,700
64,900
103,000
183,000
373,000
50
2,460
5,150
9,710
19,900
29,900
57,500
91,600
162,000
330,000
60
2,230
4,670
8,790
18,100
27,100
52,100
83,000
147,000
299,000
70
2,050
4,300
8,090
16,600
24,900
47,900
76,400
135,000
275,000
80
1,910
4,000
7,530
15,500
23,200
44,600
71,100
126,000
256,000
90
1,790
3,750
7,060
14,500
21,700
41,800
66,700
118,000
240,000
100
1,690
3,540
6,670
13,700
20,500
39,500
63,000
111.000
227,000
125
1,500
3,140
5,910
12,100
18,200
35,000
55,800
98,700
201,000
150
1,360
2,840
5,360
11,000
16,500
31,700
50,600
89,400
182,000
175
1,250
2,620
4,930
10,100
15,200
29,200
46,500
82,300
167,800
200
1,160
2,430
4,580
9,410
14,100
27,200
43,300
76,500
156,100
250
1,030
2,160
4,060
8,340
12,500
24,100
38,400
67,800
138,400
300
935
1,950
3,680
7,560
11,300
21,800
34,800
61,500
125,400
350
860
1,800
3,390
6,950
10,400
20,100
32,000
56,500
115,300
400
800
1,670
3,150
6,470
9,690
18,700
29,800
52,600
107,300
450
751
1,570
2,960
6,070
9,090
17,500
27,900
49,400
100,700
500
709
1,480
2,790
5,730
8.590
16,500
26,400
46,600
95,100
550
673
1,410
2,650
5,450
8,160
15,700
25,000
44,300
90,300
600
642
1,340
2,530
5,200
7,780
15,000
23,900
42,200
86,200
650
615
1,290
2,420
4,980
7,450
14,400
22,900
40,500
82,500
700
591
1,240
2,330
4,780
7,160
13,800
22,000
38,900
79,300
750
569
1,190
2,240
4,600
6,900
13,300
21,200
37,400
76,400
800
550
1,150
2,170
4,450
6,660
12,800
20,500
36,200
73,700
850
532
1,110
2,100
4,300
6,450
1 2,400
19,800
35,000
71,400
900
516
1,080
2,030
4,170
6,250
12,000
19,200
33,900
69,200
950
501
1,050
1,970
4,050
6,070
11,700
18,600
32,900
67,200
1,000
487
1,020
1,920
3,940
5,900
11,400
18,100
32,000
65,400
1,100
463
968
1,820
3,740
5,610
10,800
17,200
30.400
62,100
1,200
442
923
1,740
3,570
5,350
10,300
1 6,400
29,000
59,200
1,300
423
884
1,670
3,420
5,120
9,870
15,700
27,800
56,700
1,400
406
849
1,600
3,280
4,920
9,480
15,100
26,700
54,500
1,500
391
818
1,540
3,160
4,740
9,130
14,600
25,700
52,500
1,600
378
790
1,490
3,060
4,580
8,820
14,100
24,800
50,700
1,700
366
765
1,440
2,960
4,430
8,530
13,600
24,000
49,000
1,800
355
741
1,400
2,870
4,300
8,270
13,200
23,300
47,600
1,900
344
720
1,360
2,780
4,170
8,040
12,800
22,600
46,200
2,000
335
700
1,320
2,710
4,060
7,820
12,500
22,000
44,900
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, I foot
1 British thermal unit per
Note: All table entries have been
= 304.8 mm, I pound per square inch = 6.
hour = 0.293 1 W, 1 cubic foot per hour =
rounded to three significant digits.
895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa,
0.0283 m 3 /h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
560
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
TABLE G241 3.4(11) [402.4(27)]
SCHEDULE 40 METALLIC PIPE
Gas
Undiluted Propane
Inlet Pressure
2.0 psi
Pressure Drop
1 .0 psi
Specific Gravity
1.50
INTENDED USE
Pipe sizing between 2 psig service and line pressure regulator.
PIPE SIZE (in.)
Nominal
v 2
%
1
1V 4
\%
2
27,
3
4
Actual ID
0.622
0.824
1.049
1.380
1.610
2.067
2.469
3.068
4.026
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
2,680
5.590
10,500
21,600
32,400
62,400
99,500
176,000
359,000
20 f
1,840
3,850
7,240
14,900
22,300
42,900
68,400
121,000
247,000
30
1,480
3,090
5.820
11,900
17,900
34,500
54,900
97,100
198,000
40
1 ,260
2,640
4,980
10,200
15,300
29,500
47,000
83,100
170,000
50
1,120
2,340
4,410
9,060
13,600
26,100
41,700
73,700
150,000
60
1,010
2,120
4,000
8,210
12,300
23,700
37,700
66,700
136,000
70
934
1,950
3,680
7,550
1 1 ,300
21,800
34,700
61,400
125,000
80
869
1,820
3,420
7,020
10,500
20,300
32,300
57,100
1 16,000
90
815
1,700
3,210
6,590
9,880
19,000
30,300
53,600
109,000
100
770
1,610
3,030
6,230
9,330
1 8,000
28,600
50,600
103,000
125
682
1,430
2,690
5,520
8,270
15,900
25,400
44,900
91,500
150
618
1,290
2,440
5,000
7,490
14,400
23,000
40,700
82,900
175
569
1,190
2,240
4,600
6,890
13,300
21,200
37,400
76,300
200
529
1,110
2,080
4,280
6,410
12,300
19,700
34,800
71,000
250
469
981
1,850
3,790
5,680
10,900
17,400
30,800
62,900
300
425
889
1,670
3,440
5,150
9,920
15.800
27,900
57,000
350
391
817
1,540
3,160
4,740
9,120
14,500
25,700
52,400
400
364
760
1.430
2,940
4,410
8,490
13,500
23,900
48,800
450
341
714
1,340
2,760
4,130
7,960
12,700
22,400
45,800
500
322
674
1,270
2.610
3,910
7,520
12,000
21,200
43,200
550
306
640
1,210
2,480
3,710
7,140
1 1,400
20,100
41,100
600
292
611
1,150
2,360
3,540
6,820
10,900
19,200
39,200
650
280
585
1,100
2,260
3,390
6,530
10,400
18,400
37.500
700
269
562
1,060
2,170
3,260
6,270
9,990
17,700
36,000
750
259
541
1,020
2,090
3,140
6,040
9,630
17,000
34,700
800
250
523
985
2,020
3,030
5,830
9,300
16,400
33,500
850
242
506
953
1,960
2,930
5,640
9,000
15,900
32,400
900
235
490
924
1,900
2,840
5,470
8,720
1 5,400
31,500
950
228
476
897
1,840
2,760
5,310
8,470
15,000
30,500
1,000
222
463
873
1 ,790
2,680
5,170
8,240
14,600
29,700
1,100
210
440
829
1,700
2,550
4,910
7,830
13,800
28,200
1,200
201
420
791
1,620
2,430
4,680
7,470
13,200
26,900
1,300
192
402
757
1.550
2,330
4,490
7,150
12,600
25,800
1,400
185
386
727
1,490
2,240
4,310
6,870
12,100
24,800
1,500
178
372
701
1,440
2,160
4,150
6,620
11,700
23,900
1,600
172
359
677
1,390
2,080
4,010
6,390
11,300
23,000
1,700
166
348
655
1,340
2,010
3,880
6,180
10,900
22,300
1,800
161
337
635
1,300
1,950
3,760
6,000
10,600
21,600
1,900
157
327
617
1,270
1,900
3,650
5,820
10,300
21,000
2,000
152
318
600
1,230
1,840
3,550
5.660
10,000
20,400
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot
I British thermal unit per
Note: All table entries have been
= 304.8 mm, I pound per square inch =
hour = 0.293 1 W, 1 cubic foot per hour
rounded to three significant digits.
6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa,
= 0.0283 m 3 /h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
561
FUEL GAS
TABLE G2413.4(12) [402.4(28)]
SCHEDULE 40 METALLIC PIPE
Gas
Undiluted Propane
Inlet Pressure
11.0 in. w.c.
Pressure Drop
0.5 in. w.c.
Specific Gravity
1.50
INTENDED USE
Pipe sizing between single- or second-stage (low pressure) regulator and appliance.
PIPE SIZE (in.)
Nominal
'/ 2
%
1
l'/ 4
17,
2
27,
3
4
Actual ID
0.622
0.824
1.049
1.380
1.610
2.067
2.469
3.068
4.026
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
291
608
1,150
2,350
3,520
6,790
10,800
19,100
39,000
20
200
418
787
1,620
2,420
4,660
7,430
13,100
26,800
30
160
336
632
1,300
1,940
3,750
5,970
10,600
21,500
40
137
287
541
1,110
1,660
3,210
5,110
9,030
18,400
50
122
255
480
985
1,480
2,840
4,530
8,000
16,300
60
110
231
434
892
1,340
2,570
4,100
7,250
14,800
80
101
212
400
821
1,230
2,370
3,770
6,670
13,600
100
94
197
372
763
1,140
2,200
3,510
6,210
12,700
125
89
185
349
716
1,070
2,070
3,290
5,820
11,900
150
84
175
330
677
1,010
1 ,950
3,110
5,500
11,200
175
74
155
292
600
899
1,730
2,760
4,880
9,950
200
67
140
F 265
543
814
1,570
2,500
4,420
9,010
250
62
129
243
500
749
1,440
2,300
4,060
8,290
300
58
120
227
465
697
1,340
2,140
3,780
7,710
350
51
107
201
412
618
1,190
1,900
3,350
6,840
400
46
97
182
373
560
1,080
1,720
3,040
6,190
450
42
89
167
344
515
991
1,580
2,790
5,700
500
40
83
156
320
479
922
1,470
2,600
5,300
550
37
78
146
300
449
865
1,380
2,440
4,970
600
35
73
138
283
424
817
1,300
2,300
4,700
650
33
70
131
269
403
776
1,240
2,190
4,460
700
32
66
125
257
385
741
1,180
2,090
4,260
750
30
64
120
246
368
709
1,130
2,000
4,080
800
29
61
115
236
354
681
1,090
1,920
3,920
850
28
59
111
227
341
656
1,050
1,850
3,770
900
27
57
107
220
329
634
1,010
1,790
3,640
950
26
55
104
213
319
613
978
1,730
3,530
1,000
25
53
100
206
309
595
948
1,680
3,420
1,100
25
52
97
200
300
578
921
1 ,630
3,320
1,200
24
50
95
195
292
562
895
1,580
3,230
1,300
23
48
90
185
277
534
850
1,500
3,070
1.400
22
46
86
176
264
509
811
1,430
2,930
1,500
21
44
82
169
253
487
777
1,370
2,800
1,200
24
50
95
195
292
562
895
1,580
3,230
1,300
23
48
90
185
277
534
850
1,500
3,070
1,400
22
46
86
176
264
509
811
1,430
2,930
1,500
21
44
82
169
253
487
777
1,370
2,800
1,600
20
42
79
162
243
468
746
1,320
2,690
1,700
19
40
76
156
234
451
719
1,270
2,590
1,800
19
39
74
151
226
436
694
1,230
2,500
1,900
18
38
71
146
219
422
672
1,190
2,420
2,000
18
37
69
142
212
409
652
1,150
2,350
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.
1. British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour =
Note: All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa,
0.0283 mVh, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
562
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
TABLE G2413.4(13) [402.4(29)]
SEMIRIGID COPPER TUBING
Gas
Undiluted Propane
Inlet Pressure
10.0 psi
Pressure Drop
1 .0 psi
Specific Gravity
1.50
INTENDED USE
Sizing between first stage (high-pressure regulator) and second stage (low-pressure regulator).
TUBE SIZE (in.)
Nominal
K&L
7.,
%
'/ 2
%
'/,
1
l'/j
l'/ ;
2
ACR
%
\
X
%
7 ' s
!'/*
l'/ 8
—
—
Outside
0.375
0.500
0.625
0.750
0.875
1 . 1 25
1.375
1.625
2.125
Inside
0.305
0.402
0.527
0.652
0.745
0.995
1.245
1.481
1.959
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
513
1,060
2,150
3,760
5,330
1 1 ,400
20,500
32,300
67,400
20
352
727
1,480
2,580
3,670
7,830
14,100
22,200
46,300
30
283
584
1,190
2,080
2,940
6,290
11,300
17,900
37,200
40
242
500
1,020
1,780
2,520
5,380
9,690
15,300
31,800
50
215
443
901
1,570
2,230
4,770
8,590
13,500
28,200
60
1.94
401
816
1,430
2,020
4,320
7,780
12,300
25,600
70
179
369
751
1,310
1,860
3,980
7,160
1 1 ,300
23,500
80
166
343
699
1,220
1,730
3,700
6,660
10,500
21,900
90
156
322
655
1,150
1,630
3,470
6,250
9,850
20,500
100
147
304
619
1,080
1,540
3,280
5,900
9,310
19,400
125
131
270
549
959
1,360
2,910
5,230
8,250
17,200
150
118
244
497
869
1,230
2,630
4,740
7,470
15,600
175
109
225
457
799
1,130
2,420
4,360
6,880
14,300
200
101
209
426
744
1,060
2,250
4,060
6,400
13,300
250
90
185
377
659
935
2,000
3,600
5,670
11,800
300
81
168
342
597
847
1,810
3,260
5,140
10.700
350
75
155
314
549
779
1,660
3,000
4,730
9,840
400
70
144
292
511
725
1,550
2,790
4,400
9,160
450
65
135
274
480
680
1 ,450
2,620
4,130
8,590
500
62 n
127
259
453
643
1,370
2,470
3,900
8,120
550
59
121
246
430
610
1,300
2,350
3,700
7,710
600
56
115
235
410
582
1,240
2,240
3,530
7,350
650
54
111
225
393
558
1,190
2,140
3,380
7,040
700
51
106
216
378
536
1,140
2,060
3,250
6,770
750
50
102
208
364
516
1,100
1,980
3,130
6,520
800
48
99
201
351
498
1,060
1,920
3,020
6,290
850
46
96
195
340
482
1,030
1,850
2,920
6,090
900
45
93
189
330
468
1,000
1,800
2,840
5,910
950
44
90
183
320
454
970
1,750
2,750
5,730
1,000
42
88
178
311
442
944
1,700
2,680
5,580
1,100
40
83
169
296
420
896
1,610
2,540
5,300
1,200
38
79
161
282
400
855
1,540
2,430
5,050
1,300
37
76
1 55
270
383
819
1,470
2,320
4,840
1,400
35
73
148
260
368
787
1 ,420
2,230
4,650
1,500
34
70
143
250
355
758
1,360
2,150
4,480
1.600
33
68
138
241
343
732
1,320
2,080
4,330
1,700
32
66
134
234
331
708
1,270
2,010
4,190
1,800
31
64
130
227
321
687
1,240
1,950
4,060
1,900
30
62
126
220
312
667
1,200
1 ,890
3,940
2,000
29
60
122
214
304
648
1,170
1,840
3,830
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa,
1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 mVh, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
1. Table capacities are based on Type K copper tubing inside diameter (shown), which has the smallest inside diameter of the copper tubing products.
2. All table enU'ies have been rounded to three significant digits.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
563
FUEL GAS
TABLE G2413.4(14) [402.4(30)]
SEMIRIGID COPPER TUBING
Gas
Undiluted Propane
Inlet Pressure
11.0 in. w.c.
Pressure Drop
0.5 in. w.c.
Specific Gravity
1.50
INTENDED USE
Sizing between single- or second-stage (low-pressure regulator) and appliance.
TUBE SIZE (in.)
Nominal
K&L
'/.
\
7,
%
%
1
17„
l7j
2
ACR
%
'A
%
%
%
1'/,
1%
„
_
Outside
0.375
0.500
0.625
0.750
0.875
1.125
1.375
1.625
2.125
Inside
0.305
0.402
0.527
0.652
0.745
0.995
1.245
1.481
1.959
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
45
93
188
329
467
997
1,800
2,830
5,890
20
31
64
129
226
321
685
1,230
1,950
4,050
30
25
51
104
182
258
550
991
1,560
3,250
40
21
44
89
155
220
471
848
1,340
2,780
50
19
39
79
138
195
417
752
1,180
2,470
60
17
35
71
125
177
378
681
1,070
2,240
70
16
32
66
115
163
348
626
988
2,060
80
15
30
61
107
152
324
583
919
1,910
90
14
28
57
100
142
304
547
862
1,800
100
13
27
54
95
134
287
517
814
1,700
125
11
24
48
84
119
254
458
722
1,500
150
10
21
44
76
108
230
415
654
1,360
175
NA
20
40
70
99
212
382
602
1,250
200
NA
18
37
65
92
197
355
560
1,170
250
NA
16
33
58
82
175
315
496
1,030
300
NA
15
30
52
74
158
285
449
936
350
NA
14
28
48
6S
146
262
414
861
400
NA
13
26
45
63
136
244
385
801
450
NA
12
24
42
60
127
229
361
752
500
NA
11
23
40
56
120
216
341
710
550
NA
11
22
38
53
114
205
324
674
600
NA
10
21
36
51
109
196
309
643
650
NA
NA
20
34
49
104
188
296
616
700
NA
NA
19
33
47
100
180
284
592
750
NA
NA
18
32
45
96
174
274
570
800
NA
NA
18
31
44
93
168
264
551
850
NA
NA
17
30
42
90
162
256
533
900
NA
NA
17
29
41
87
157
248
517
950
NA
NA
16
28
40
85
153
241
502
1 ,000
NA
NA
16
27
39
83
149
234
488
1,100
NA
NA
15
26
37
78
141
223
464
1,200
NA
NA
14
25
35
75
135
212
442
1,300
NA
NA
14
24
34
72
129
203
423
1,400
NA
NA
13
23
32
69
124
195
407
1,500
NA
NA
13
22
31
66
119
188
392
1,600
NA
NA
12
21
30
64
115
182
378
1,700
NA
NA
12
20
29
62
112
176
366
1,800
NA
NA
11
20
28
60
108
170
355
1,900
NA
NA
11
19
27
58
105
166
345
2,000
NA
NA
11
19
27
57
102
161
335
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 -inch water column = 0.2488 kPa,
1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m 3 /h, I degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
1 . Table capacities are based on Type K copper tubing inside diameter (shown), which has the smallest inside diameter of the copper tubing products.
2. NA means a flow of less than 10,000 Btu/hr.
3. All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
564
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
TABLE G2413.4(15) [402.4(31)]
SEMIRIGID COPPER TUBING
INTENDED USE
Gas
Undiluted Propane
Inlet Pressure
2.0 psi
Pressure Drop
1.0 psi
Specific Gravity
1.50
Tube sizing between 2 psig service and line pressure regulator.
IUB
t sizt (in.)
Nominal
K&L
'/<
7 S
7,
%
%
1
l'/ 4
17,
2
ACR
%
'/,
%
3/ 4
7/ s
1'/,
]\
-
—
Outside
0.375
0.500
0.625
0.750
0.875
1.125
1.375
1.625
2.125
Inside
0.305
0.402
0.527
0.652
0.745
0.995
1.245
1.481
1.959
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
413
852
1,730
3,030
4,300
9,170
16,500
26,000
54,200
20
284
585
1,190
2,080
2,950
6,310
11,400
17,900
37,300
30
228
470
956
1,670
2,370
5,060
9,120
14,400
29,900
40
195
402
818
1,430
2,030
4,330
7,800
12,300
25,600
50
173
356
725
1,270
1,800
3,840
6,920
10,900
22,700
60
157
323
657
1.150
1,630
3,480
6,270
9.880
20,600
70
144
297
605
1,060
1,500
3,200
5,760
9,090
18,900
80
134
276
562
983
1,390
2,980
5,360
8,450
17,600
90
126
259
528
922
1,310
2,790
5,030
7,930
16,500
100
119
245
498
871
1,240
2,640
4,750
7,490
15,600
125
105
217
442
772
1,100
2,340
4,210
6,640
13,800
150
95
197
400
700
992
2,120
3,820
6,020
12,500
175
88
181
368
644
913
1,950
3,510
5,540
11,500
200
82
168
343
599
849
1,810
3,270
5,150
10,700
250
72
149
304
531
753
1,610
2,900
4,560
9,510
300
66
135
275
481
682
1,460
2,620
4,140
8,610
350
60
124
253
442
628
1,340
2,410
3,800
7,920
400
56
116
235
411
584
1,250
2,250
3,540
7,370
450
53
109
221
386
548
1,170
2,110
3,320
6,920
500
50
103
209
365
517
1,110
1,990
3,140
6,530
550
47
97
198
346
491
1,050
1,890
2,980
6,210
600
45
93
189
330
469
1,000
1,800
2,840
5,920
650
43
89
181
316
449
959
1,730
2,720
5,670
700
41
86
174
304
431
921
1,660
2,620
5,450
750
40
82
168
293
415
888
1 ,600
2,520
5,250
800
39
80
162
283
401
857
1,540
2,430
5,070
850
37
77
157
274
388
829
1,490
2,350
4,900
900
36
75
152
265
376
804
1,450
2,280
4,750
950
35
72
147
258
366
781
1,410
2,220
4,620
1,000
34
71
143
251
356
760
1,370
2,160
4,490
1,100
32
67
136
238
338
721
1,300
2,050
4,270
1,200
31
64
130
227
322
688
1,240
1,950
4,070
1,300
30
61
124
217
309
659
1,190
1,870
3,900
1,400
28
59
120
209
296
633
1,140
1,800
3,740
1,500
27
57
115
201
286
610
1,100
1,730
3,610
1,600
26
55
111
194
276
589
1,060
1.670
3,480
1,700
26
53
108
188
267
570
1,030
1,620
3,370
1,800
25
51
104
182
259
553
1,000
1,570
3,270
1,900
24
50
101
177
251
537
966
1,520
3,170
2.000
23
48
99
172
244
522
940
1,480
3,090
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa,
1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.293 1 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m 3 /h, 1 degree = 0.01 745 rad.
Notes:
1 . Table capacities are based on Type K copper tubing inside diameter (shown), which has the smallest inside diameter of the copper tubing products
2. All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
565
FUEL GAS
TABLE G2413.4(16) [402.4(32)]
CORRUGATED STAINLESS STEEL TUBING (CSST)
Gas
Undiluted Propane
Inlet Pressure
11.0 in. w.c.
Pressure Drop
0.5 in. w.c.
Specific Gravity
1.50
INTENDED USE
Sizing between single
or second stage (low pressure) regulator and the appliance shutoff valve.
TUBE SIZE (EHD)
Flow
Designation
13
15
18
19
23
25
30
31
37
39
46
48
60
62
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
5
72
99
181
211
355
426
744
863
1,420
1,638
2,830
3,270
5,780
6,550
10
50
69
129
150
254
303
521
605
971
1,179
1,990
2,320
4,110
4,640
15
39
55
104
121
208
248
422
490
775
972
1,620
1,900
3,370
3,790
20
34
49
91
106
183
216
365
425
661
847
1,400
1,650
2,930
3,290
25
30
42
82
94
164
192
325
379
583
762
1,250
1,480
2,630
2,940
30
28
39
74
87
151
177
297
344
528
698
1,140
1,350
2,400
2,680
40
23
33
64
74
131
153
256
297
449
610
988
1,170
2,090
2,330
50
20
30
58
66
118
137
227
265
397
548
884
1,050
1,870
2,080
60
19
26
53
60
107
126
207
241
359
502
805
961
1,710
1,900
70
17
25
49
57
99
117
191
222
330
466
745
890
1,590
1,760
80
15
23
45
52
94
109
178
208
307
438
696
833
1,490
1,650
90
15
22
44
50
90
102
169
197
286
414
656
787
1,400
1,550
100
14
20
41
47
85
98
159
186
270
393
621
746
1,330
1,480
150
11
15
31
36
66
75
123
143
217
324
506
611
1,090
1,210
200
9
14
28
33
60
69
112
129
183
283
438
531
948
1,050
250
8
12
25
30
53
61
99
117
163
254
390
476
850
934
300
8
11
23
26
50
57
90
107
147
234
357
434
777 854
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 loot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa,
1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, I cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m'/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
1. Table includes losses for four 90-degree bends and two end fittings. Tubing runs with larger numbers of bends and/or fittings shall be increased by an
equivalent length of tubing to the following equation: L = 1 .3ft where L is additional length (feet) of tubing and n is the number of additional fittings and/or
bends.
2. EHD— Equivalent Hydraulic Diameter, which is a measure of the relative hydraulic efficiency between different tubing sizes. The greater the value of EHD,
the greater the gas capacity of the tubing.
3. All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
566
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
TABLE G2413.4(17) [402.4(33)]
CORRUGATED STAINLESS STEEL TUBING (CSST)
Gas
Undiluted Propane
Inlet Pressure
2.0 psi
Pressure Drop
1 .0 psi
Specific Gravity
1.50
INTENDED USE
Sizing between 2 psi service and the line pressure regulator.
TUBE SIZE (EHD)
Flow
Designation
13
15
18
19
23
25
30
31
37
39
46
48
60
62
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
426
558
927
1,110
1,740
2,170
4,100
4,720
7,130
7,958
15,200
16,800
29,400
34,200
25
262
347
591
701
1,120
1,380
2,560
2,950
4,560
5,147
9,550
10,700
18,800
21,700
30
238
316
540
640
1,030
1,270
2,330
2,690
4,180
4,719
8,710
9,790
17,200
19,800
40
203
271
469
554
896
1,100
2,010
2,320
3,630
4,116
7,530
8,500
14,900
17,200
50
181
243
420
496
806
986
1,790
2,070
3,260
3,702
6,730
7,610
13,400
15,400
75
147
196
344
406
663
809
1,460
1,690
2,680
3,053
5,480
6,230
11,000
12,600
80
140
189
333
393
643
768
1,410
1,630
2,590
2,961
5,300
6,040
10,600
12,200
100
124
169
298
350
578
703
1,260
1,450
2,330
2,662
4,740
5,410
9,530
10,900
150
101
137
245
287
477
575
1,020
1,180
1,910
2,195
3,860
4,430
7,810
8,890
200
86
118
213
248
415
501
880
1,020
1,660
1,915
3,340
3,840
6,780
7,710
250
77
105
191
222
373
448
785
910
1 ,490
1,722
2,980
3,440
6,080
6,900
300
69
96
173
203
343
411
716
829
1,360
1,578
2,720
3,150
5,560
6,300
400
60
82
151
175
298
355
616
716
1,160
1,376
2,350
2,730
4,830
5,460
500
53
72
135
158
268
319
550
638
1,030
1,237
2,100
2,450
4,330
4,880
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa,
I British thermal unit per hour = 0.293 1 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m 3 /h, 1 degree = 0.0 1 745 rad.
Notes:
1 . Table does not include effect of pressure drop across the line regulator. Where regulator loss exceeds 7, psi (based on 1 3 in. w.c. outlet pressure), DO NOT
USE THIS TABLE. Consult with the regulator manufacturer for pressure drops and capacity factors. Pressure drops across a regulator can vary with flow
rate.
2. CAUTION: Capacities shown in the table might exceed maximum capacity for a selected regulator. Consult with the regulator or tubing manufacturer for
guidance.
3. Table includes losses for four 90-degree bends and two end fittings. Tubing runs with larger numbers of bends and/or fittings shall be increased by an
equivalent length of tubing to the following equation: L= \3n where L is additional length (feet) of tubing and n is the number of additional fittings and/or
bends.
4. EHD — Equivalent Hydraulic Diameter, which is a measure of the relative hydraulic efficiency between different tubing sizes. The greater the value of EHD,
the greater the gas capacity of the tubing.
5. All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE*
567
FUEL GAS
TABLE G2413.4(18) [402.4(34)]
CORRUGATED STAINLESS STEEL TUBING (CSST)
Gas
Undiluted Propane
Inlet Pressure
5.0 psi
Pressure Drop
3.5 psi
Specific Gravity
1.50
TUBE SIZE (EHD)
Flow Designation
13
15
18
19
23
25
30
31
37
39
46
48
60
62
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
826
1,070
1,710
2,060
3,150
4,000
7,830
8,950
13,100
14,441
28,600
31,200
54,400
63,800
25
509
664
1,090
1,310
2,040
2,550
4,860
5,600
8,400
9,339
18,000
19,900
34,700
40,400
30
461
603
999
1,190
1,870
2,340
4,430
5,100
7,680
8,564
16,400
18,200
31,700
36,900
40
396
520
867
1,030
1,630
2,030
3,820
4,400
6,680
7,469
14,200
15,800
27,600
32,000
50
352
463
777
926
1,460
1,820
3,410
3,930
5,990
6,717
12,700
14,100
24,700
28,600
75
284
376
637
757
1,210
1,490
2,770
3.190
4,920
5,539
10,300
11,600
20,300
23,400
80
275
363
618
731
1,170
1,450
2,680
3,090
4,770
5,372
9,990
1 1 ,200
19,600
22,700
100
243
324
553
656
1,050
1,300
2,390
2,760
4,280
4,830
8,930
10,000
17,600
20,300
150
196
262
453
535
866
1,060
1,940
2,240
3,510
3,983
7,270
8,210
14,400
16,600
200
169
226
393
464
755
923
1,680
1,930
3,050
3,474
6,290
7,130
1 2,500
14,400
250
150
202
352
415
679
828
1,490
1,730
2,740
3,124
5,620
6,390
11,200
12,900
300
136
183
322
379
622
757
1,360
1,570
2,510
2,865
5,120
5,840
10,300
11,700
400
117
158
279
328
542
657
1,170
1,360
2,180
2,498
4,430
5,070
8,920
10,200
500
104
140
251
294
488
589
1,050
1,210
1,950
2,247
3,960
4,540
8,000
9,110
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa,
1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m 3 /h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
1. Table does not include effect of pressure drop across line regulator. Where regulator loss exceedsl psi, DO NOT USE THIS TABLE. Consult with the
regulator manufacturer for pressure drops and capacity factors. Pressure drop across regulator can vary with the flow rate.
2. CAUTION: Capacities shown in the table might exceed maximum capacity of selected regulator. Consult with the tubing manufacturer for guidance.
3. Table includes losses for four 90-degree bends and two end fittings. Tubing runs with larger numbers of bends and/or fittings shall be increased by an
equivalent length of tubing to the following equation: L = \3n where L is additional length (feet) of tubing and n is the number of additional fittings and/or
bends.
4. EHD— Equivalent Hydraulic Diameter, which is a measure of the relative hydraulic efficiency between different tubing sizes. The greater the value of EHD,
the greater the gas capacity of the tubing.
5. All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
568
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
TABLE G2413.4(19) [402.4(35)]
POLYETHYLENE PLASTIC PIPE
Gas
Undiluted Propane
Inlet Pressure
11.0 in. w.c.
Pressure Drop
0.5 in. w.c.
Specific Gravity
1.50
INTENDED USE
PE pipe sizing between integral 2-stage regulator at tank or second stage (low pressure regulator) and building.
PIPE SIZE (in.)
Nominal OD
%
%
1
l'/ 4
17,
2
Designation
SDR 9.33
SDR 11.0
SDR 11.00
SDR 10.00
SDR 11.00
SDR 11.00
Actual ID
0.660
0.860
1.077
1.328
1.554
1.943
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
340
680
1,230
2,130
3,210
5,770
20
233
468
844
1,460
2,210
3,970
30
187
375
677
1,170
1,770
3,180
40
160
321
580
1,000
1,520
2,730
50
142
285
514
890
1,340
2,420
60
129
258
466
807
1,220
2,190
70
119
237
428
742
1,120
2,010
80
110
221
398
690
1,040
1,870
90
103
207
374
648
978
1,760
100
98
196
353
612
924
1,660
125
87
173
313
542
819
1,470
150
78
157
284
491
742
1,330
175
72
145
261
452
683
1,230
200
67
135
243
420
635
1,140
250
60
119
215
373
563
1,010
300
54
108
195
338
510
916
350
50
99
179
311
469
843
400
46
92
167
289
436
784
450
43
87
157
271
409
736
500
41
82
148
256
387
695
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot
I British thermal unit per
Note: All table entries have been
= 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.
hour = 0.293 1 W, 1 cubic foot per hour =
rounded to three significant digits.
895 kPa, 1 -inch water
0.0283 m 3 /h, 1 degree
column = 0.2488 kPa,
0.01745 rad.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
569
FUEL GAS
TABLE G241 3.4(20) [402.4(36)]
POLYETHYLENE PLASTIC PIPE
Gas
Undiluted Propane
Inlet Pressure
2.0 psi
Pressure Drop
1 .0 psi
Specific Gravity
1.50
INTENDED USE
PE pipe sizing between 2 psig service regulator and line pressure regulator.
PIPE SIZE (in.)
Nominal OD
7,
7 4
1
17 4
17,
2
Designation
SDR 9.33
SDR 11.0
SDR 11.00
SDR 10.00
SDR 11.00
SDR 11.00
Actual ID
0.660
0.860
1.077
1.328
1.554
1.943
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
3,130
6,260
11,300
19,600
29,500
53,100
20
2,150
4,300
7,760
13,400
20,300
36,500
30
1,730
3,450
6,230
10,800
16,300
29,300
40
1,480
2,960
5,330
9,240
14.000
25,100
50
1,310
2,620
4,730
8,190
1 2,400
22,200
60
1,190
2,370
4,280
7,420
11,200
20,100
70
1,090
2,180
3,940
6,830
10,300
18,500
80
1,010
2,030
3,670
6,350
9,590
17,200
90
952
1,910
3,440
5,960
9,000
16,200
100
899
1,800
3,250
5,630
8,500
15,300
125
797
1,600
2,880
4,990
7.530
13,500
150
722
1,450
2,610
4,520
6,830
12,300
175
664
1,330
2,400
4,160
6,280
11,300
200
618
1,240
2,230
3,870
5,840
10,500
250
548
1.100
1,980
3,430
5,180
9,300
300
496
994
1,790
3,110
4,690
8,430
350
457
914
1,650
2,860
4,320
7,760
400
425
851
1,530
2,660
4,020
7,220
450
399
798
1,440
2,500
3,770
6,770
500
377
754
1,360
2,360
3,560
6,390
550
358
716
1,290
2,240
3,380
6,070
600
341
683
1,230
2,140
3,220
5,790
650
327
654
1,180
2,040
3,090
5,550
700
314
628
1,130
1,960
2,970
5,330
750
302
605
1,090
1,890
2,860
5,140
800
292
585
1,050
1,830
2,760
4,960
850
283
566
1,020
1,770
2,670
4,800
900
274
549
990
1,710
2,590
4,650
950
266
533
961
1,670
2,520
4,520
1,000
259
518
935
1,620
2,450
4,400
1,100
246
492
888
1,540
2,320
4,170
1,200
234
470
847
1,470
2,220
3,980
1,300
225
450
811
1,410
2,120
3,810
1,400
216
432
779
1,350
2,040
3,660
1,500
208
416
751
1,300
1,960
3,530
1,600
201
402
725
1,260
1,900
3,410
1,700
194
389
702
1,220
1,840
3,300
1,800
188
377
680
1,180
1,780
3,200
1,900
183
366
661
1,140
1 ,730
3,110
2,000
178
356
643
1,110
1,680
3,020
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot
I British thermal unit per
Note: All table entries have been
= 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6
hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour =
rounded to three significant digits.
895 kPa, 1-inch water
0.0283 m-7h, 1 degree
column = 0.2488 kPa,
0.01745 rad.
570
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
TABLE G241 3.4(21) [402.4(37)]
POLYETHYLENE PLASTIC TUBING
Gas
Undiluted Propane
Inlet Pressure
11.0 in. w.c.
Pressure Drop
0.5 in. w.c.
Specific Gravity
1.50
INTENDED USE
PE pipe sizing between integral 2-stage regulator at tank or second stage (low pressure regulator) and building.
Plastic Tubing Size (CTS) (in.)
Nominal OD
%
1
Designation
SDR 7.00
SDR 11.00
Actual ID
0.445
0.927
Length (ft)
Capacity in Cubic Feet of Gas per Hour
10
121
828
20
83
569
30
67
457
40
57
391
50
51
347
60
46
314
70
42
289
80
39
269
90
37
252
100
35
238
125
31
211
150
28
191
175
26
176
200
24
164
225
22
154
250
21
145
275
20
138
300
19
132
350
18
121
400
16
113
450
15
106
500
15
100
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa,
I British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 trvVh, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Note: All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
571
FUEL GAS
G24 14.4.2 (403.4.2) Steel. Steel and wrought-iron pipe
shall be at least of standard weight (Schedule 40) and shall
comply with one of the following:
1. ASME B 36.10, 10M;
2. ASTM A 53/A 53M; or
3. ASTM A 106.
G2414.5 (403.5) Metallic tubing. Seamless copper, alumi-
num alloy or steel tubing shall be permitted to be used with
gases not corrosive to such material.
G2414.5.1 (403.5.1) Steel tubing. Steel tubing shall com-
ply with ASTM A 254.
G2414.5.2 (403.5.2) Copper tubing. Copper tubing shall
comply with standard Type K or L of ASTM B 88 or
ASTM B 280.
Copper and brass tubing shall not be used if the gas
contains more than an average of 0.3 grains of hydrogen
sulfide per 1 00 standard cubic feet of gas (0.7 milligrams
per 100 liters).
G2414.5.3 (403.5.4) Corrugated stainless steel tubing.
Corrugated stainless steel tubing shall be listed in accor-
dance with ANSI LC 1/CSA 6.26.
G2414.6 (403.6) Plastic pipe, tubing and fittings. Polyeth-
ylene plastic pipe, tubing and fittings used to supply fuel gas
shall conform to the 2009 edition of ASTM D 2513. Such
pipe shall be marked "Gas" and "ASTM D 2513."
Plastic pipe, tubing and fittings, other than polyethylene,
shall be identified and conform to the 2008 edition of ASTM
D 2513. Such pipe shall be marked "Gas" and "ASTM D
2513."
G2414.6.1 (403.6.1) Anodeless risers. Plastic pipe, tubing
and anodeless risers shall comply with the following:
1. Factory-assembled anodeless risers shall be recom-
mended by the manufacturer for the gas used and
shall be leak tested by the manufacturer in accor-
dance with written procedures.
2. Service head adapters and field-assembled anode-
less risers incorporating service head adapters shall
be recommended by the manufacturer for the gas
used, and shall be designed and certified to meet
the requirements of Category I of the 2009 edition
of ASTM D 2513, and U.S. Department of Trans-
portation, Code of Federal Regulations, Title 49,
Part 192.281(e). The manufacturer shall provide the
user with qualified installation instructions as pre-
scribed by the U.S. Department of Transportation,
Code of Federal Regulations, Title 49, Part
192.283(b).
G2414.6.2 (403.6.2) LP-gas systems. The use of plastic
pipe, tubing and fittings in undiluted liquefied petroleum
gas piping systems shall be in accordance with NFPA 58.
G2414.6.3 (403.6.3) Regulator vent piping. Plastic pipe,
tubing and fittings used to connect regulator vents to
remote vent terminations shall be of PVC conforming to
ANSI/UL 651. PVC vent piping shall not be installed
indoors.
G2414.7 (403.7) Workmanship and defects. Pipe or tubing
and fittings shall be clear and free from cutting burrs and
defects in structure or threading, and shall be thoroughly
brushed, and chip and scale blown.
Defects in pipe or tubing or fittings shall not be repaired.
Defective pipe, tubing or fittings shall be replaced. (See Sec-
tion G2417.1.2.)
G2414.8 (403.8) Protective coating. Where in contact with
material or atmosphere exerting a corrosive action, metallic
piping and fittings coated with a corrosion-resistant material
shall be used. External or internal coatings or linings used on
piping or components shall not be considered as adding
strength.
G2414.9 (403.9) Metallic pipe threads. Metallic pipe and
fitting threads shall be taper pipe threads and shall comply
with ASME B 1.20.1.
G2414.9.1 (403.9.1) Damaged threads. Pipe with threads
that are stripped, chipped, corroded or otherwise damaged
shall not be used. If a weld opens during the operation of
cutting or threading, that portion of the pipe shall not be
used.
G2414.9.2 (403.9.2) Number of threads. Field threading
of metallic pipe shall be in accordance with Table
G2414.9.2.
TABLE G241 4.9.2 (403.9.2)
SPECIFICATIONS FOR THREADING METALLIC PIPE
IRON PIPE SIZE
(Inches)
APPROXIMATE LENGTH
OF THREADED PORTION
(inches)
APPROXIMATE NO.
OF THREADS TO BE
CUT
7 2
%
10
%
%
10
1
\
10
1V 4
1
11
l%
1
11
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
G2414.9.3 (403.9.3) Thread joint compounds. Thread
joint compounds shall be resistant to the action of lique-
fied petroleum gas or to any other chemical constituents of
the gases to be conducted through the piping.
G2414.10 (403.10) Metallic piping joints and fittings. The
type of piping joint used shall be suitable for the pressure-
temperature conditions and shall be selected giving consider-
ation to joint tightness and mechanical strength under the ser-
vice conditions. The joint shall be able to sustain the
maximum end force due to the internal pressure and any addi-
tional forces due to temperature expansion or contraction,
vibration, fatigue, or to the weight of the pipe and its con-
tents.
G2414.10.1 (403.10.1) Pipe joints. Pipe joints shall be
threaded, flanged, brazed or welded. Where nonferrous
pipe is brazed, the brazing materials shall have a melting
point in excess of 1,000°F (538°C). Brazing alloys shall
not contain more than 0.05-percent phosphorus.
G2414.10.2 (403.10.2) Tubing joints. Tub ing joints shall
be made with approved gas tubing fittings or be brazed
572
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
with a material having a melting point in excess of 1 ,000°F
(538°C) or made with press-connect fittings complying
with ANSI LC-4. Brazing alloys shall not contain more
than 0.05-percent phosphorus.
G2414.10.3 (403.10.3) Flared joints. Flared joints shall
be used only in systems constructed from nonferrous pipe
and tubing where experience or tests have demonstrated
that the joint is suitable for the conditions and where pro-
visions are made in the design to prevent separation of the
joints.
G2414.10.4 (403.10.4) Metallic fittings. Metallic fittings,
including valves, strainers and filters shall comply with the
following:
1. Fittings used with steel or wrought-iron pipe shall be
steel, brass, bronze, malleable iron, ductile iron or
cast iron.
2. Fittings used with copper or brass pipe shall be cop-
per, brass or bronze.
3. Cast-iron bushings shall be prohibited.
4. Special fittings. Fittings such as couplings, proprie-
tary-type joints, saddle tees, gland-type compression
fittings, and flared, flareless or compression-type
tubing fittings shall be: used within the fitting manu-
facturer's pressure-temperature recommendations;
used within the service conditions anticipated with
respect to vibration, fatigue, thermal expansion or
contraction; installed or braced to prevent separation
of the joint by gas pressure or external physical
damage; and shall be approved.
G2414.ll (403.11) Plastic piping, joints and fittings. Plas-
tic pipe, tubing and fittings shall be joined in accordance with
the manufacturers' instructions. Such joints shall comply
with the following:
1. The joints shall be designed and installed so that the
longitudinal pull-out resistance of the joints will be at
least equal to the tensile strength of the plastic piping
material.
2. Heat-fusion joints shall be made in accordance with
qualified procedures that have been established and
proven by test to produce gas-tight joints at least as
strong as the pipe or tubing being joined. Joints shall be
made with the joining method recommended by the
pipe manufacturer. Heat fusion fittings shall be marked
"ASTMD2513."
3. Where compression-type mechanical joints are used,
the gasket material in the fitting shall be compatible
with the plastic piping and with the gas distributed by
the system. An internal tubular rigid stiffener shall be
used in conjunction with the fitting. The stiffener shall
be flush with the end of the pipe or tubing and shall
extend at least to the outside end of the compression fit-
ting when installed. The stiffener shall be free of rough
or sharp edges and shall not be a force fit in the plastic.
Split tubular stiffeners shall not be used.
4. Plastic piping joints and fittings for use in liquefied
petroleum gas piping systems shall be in accordance
withNFPA58.
G2414.12 (403.13) Flange gaskets. Material for gaskets
shall be capable of withstanding the design temperature and
pressure of the piping system, and the chemical constituents
of the gas being conducted, without change to its chemical
and physical properties. The effects of fire exposure to the
joint shall be considered in choosing material. Acceptable
materials include metal (plain or corrugated), composition, j
and aluminum "O" rings and spiral wound metal gaskets.
When a flanged joint is opened, the gasket shall be replaced.
Full-face gaskets shall be used with all bronze and cast-iron
flanges.
SECTION G241 5 (404)
PIPING SYSTEM INSTALLATION
G2415.1 (404.1) Installation of materials. All materials
used shall be installed in strict accordance with the standards
under which the materials are accepted and approved. In the
absence of such installation procedures, the manufacturer's
instructions shall be followed. Where the requirements of ref-
erenced standards or manufacturer's instructions do not con-
form to minimum provisions of this code, the provisions of
this code shall apply.
G241S.2 (404.2) CSST. CSST piping systems shall be
installed in accordance with the terms of their approval, the
conditions of listing, the manufacturer's instructions and this
code.
G2415.3 (404.3) Prohibited locations. Piping shall not be
installed in or through a ducted supply, return or exhaust, or a
clothes chute, chimney or gas vent, dumbwaiter or elevator
shaft. Piping installed downstream of the point of delivery
shall not extend through any townhouse unit other than the
unit served by such piping.
G2415.4 (404.4) Piping in solid partitions and walls. Con-
cealed piping shall not be located in solid partitions and solid
walls, unless installed in a chase or casing.
G2415.5 (404.5) Piping in concealed locations. Portions of
a piping system installed in concealed locations shall not
have unions, tubing fittings, right and left couplings, bush-
ings, compression couplings, and swing joints made by com-
binations of fittings.
Exceptions:
1 . Tubing joined by brazing.
2. Fittings listed for use in concealed locations.
G2415.6 (404.6) Underground penetrations prohibited.
Gas piping shall not penetrate building foundation walls at
any point below grade. Gas piping shall enter and exit a
building at a point above grade and the annular space
between the pipe and the wall shall be sealed.
G2415.7 (404.7) Protection against physical damage. In
concealed locations, where piping other than black or galva-
nized steel is installed through holes or notches in wood
studs, joists, rafters or similar members less than 1 7 2 inches
(38 mm) from the nearest edge of the member, the pipe shall
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
573
FUEL GAS
be protected by shield plates. Protective steel shield plates
having a minimum thickness of 0.0575-inch (1.463 mm) (No.
1 6 Gage) shall cover the area of the pipe where the member is
notched or bored and shall extend a minimum of 4 inches
(102 mm) above sole plates, below top plates and to each side
of a stud, joist or rafter.
G2415.8 (404.8) Piping in solid floors. Piping in solid floors
shall be laid in channels in the floor and covered in a manner
that will allow access to the piping with a minimum amount
of damage to the building. Where such piping is subject to
exposure to excessive moisture or corrosive substances, the
piping shall be protected in an approved manner. As an alter-
native to installation in channels, the piping shall be installed
in a conduit of Schedule 40 steel, wrought iron, PVC or ABS
pipe in accordance with Section G2415.6.1 or G2415.6.2.
G241 5.8.1 (404.8.1) Conduit with one end terminating
outdoors. The conduit shall extend into an occupiable
portion of the building and, at the point where the conduit
terminates in the building, the space between the conduit
and the gas piping shall be sealed to prevent the possible
entrance of any gas leakage. The conduit shall extend not
less than 2 inches (51 mm) beyond the point where the
pipe emerges from the floor. If the end sealing is capable
of withstanding the full pressure of the gas pipe, the con-
duit shall be designed for the same pressure as the pipe.
Such conduit shall extend not less than 4 inches (102 mm)
outside of the building, shall be vented above grade to the
outdoors and shall be installed to prevent the entrance of
water and insects.
G2415.8.2 (404.8.2) Conduit with both ends terminat-
ing indoors. Where the conduit originates and terminates
within the same building, the conduit shall originate and
terminate in an accessible portion of the building and shall
not be sealed. The conduit shall extend not less than 2
inches (51 mm) beyond the point where the pipe emerges
from the floor.
G2415.9 (404.9) Above-ground piping outdoors. All piping
installed outdoors shall be elevated not less than 3'/ 2 inches
(152 mm) above ground and where installed across roof sur-
faces, shall be elevated not less than 3'/ 2 inches (152 mm)
above the roof surface. Piping installed above ground, out-
doors, and installed across the surface of roofs shall be
securely supported and located where it will be protected
from physical damage. Where passing through an outside
wall, the piping shall also be protected against corrosion by
coating or wrapping with an inert material. Where piping is
encased in a protective pipe sleeve, the annular space
between the piping and the sleeve shall be sealed.
G2415.10 (404.10) Isolation. Metallic piping and metallic
tubing that conveys/«e/ gas from an LP-gas storage container
shall be provided with an approved dielectric fitting to elec-
trically isolate the underground portion of the pipe or tube
from the above ground portion that enters a building. Such
dielectric fitting shall be installed aboveground outdoors.
G2415.ll (404.11) Protection against corrosion. Metallic
pipe or tubing exposed to corrosive action, such as soil condi-
tion or moisture, shall be protected in an approved manner.
Zinc coatings (galvanizing) shall not be deemed adequate
protection for gas piping underground. Where dissimilar met-
als are joined underground, an insulating coupling or fitting
shall be used. Piping shall not be laid in contact with cinders.
G2415.11.1 (404.11.1) Prohibited use. Uncoated
threaded or socket welded joints shall not be used in pip-
ing in contact with soil or where internal or external crev-
ice corrosion is known to occur.
G2415.11.2 (404.11.2) Protective coatings and wrap-
ping. Pipe protective coatings and wrappings shall be
approved for the application and shall be factory applied.
Exception: Where installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's installation instructions, field applica-
tion of coatings and wrappings shall be permitted for
pipe nipples, fittings and locations where the factory
coating or wrapping has been damaged or necessarily
removed at joints.
G2415.12 (404.12) Minimum burial depth. Underground
piping systems shall be installed a minimum depth of 12
inches (305 mm) below grade, except as provided for in Sec-
tion G2415.10.1.
G2415.12.1 (404.12.1) Individual outside appliances.
Individual lines to outside lights, grills or other appliances
shall be installed a minimum of 8 inches (203 mm) below
finished grade, provided that such installation is approved
and is installed in locations not susceptible to physical
damage.
G2415.13 (404.13) Trenches. The trench shall be graded so
that the pipe has a firm, substantially continuous bearing on
the bottom of the trench.
G2415.14 (404.14) Piping underground beneath buildings.
Piping installed underground beneath buildings is prohibited
except where the piping is encased in a conduit of wrought
iron, plastic pipe, steel pipe or other approved conduit mate-
rial designed to withstand the superimposed loads. The con-
duit shall be protected from corrosion in accordance with
Section G2415.9 and shall be installed in accordance with
Section G2415.12.1 orG2415.12.2.
G2415.14.1 (404.14.1) Conduit with one end terminat-
ing outdoors. The conduit shall extend into an occupiable
portion of the building and, at the point where the conduit
terminates in the building, the space between the conduit
and the gas piping shall be sealed to prevent the possible
entrance of any gas leakage. The conduit shall extend not
less than 2 inches (51 mm) beyond the point where the
pipe emerges from the floor. Where the end sealing is
capable of withstanding the full pressure of the gas pipe,
the conduit shall be designed for the same pressure as the
pipe. Such conduit shall extend not less than 4 inches (102
mm) outside the building, shall be vented above grade to
the outdoors and shall be installed so as to prevent the
entrance of water and insects.
G2415.14.2 (404.14.2) Conduit with both ends termi-
nating indoors. Where the conduit originates and termi-
nates within the same building, the conduit shall originate
and terminate in an accessible portion of the building and
574
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
shall not be sealed. The conduit shall extend not less than
2 inches (51 mm) beyond the point where the pipe
emerges from the floor.
G2415.15 (404.15) Outlet closures. Gas outlets that do not
connect to appliances shall be capped gas tight.
Exception: Listed and labeled flush-mounted-type quick-
disconnect devices and listed and labeled gas convenience
outlets shall be installed in accordance with the manufac-
turer's installation instructions.
G2415.16 (404.16) Location of outlets. The unthreaded por-
tion of piping outlets shall extend not less than 1 inch (25 mm)
through finished ceilings and walls and where extending
through floors, outdoor patios and slabs, shall not be less than
2 inches (51 mm) above them. The outlet fitting or piping
shall be securely supported. Outlets shall not be placed
behind doors. Outlets shall be located in the room or space
where the appliance is installed.
Exception: Listed and labeled flush-mounted-type quick-
disconnect devices and listed and labeled gas convenience
outlets shall be installed in accordance with the manufac-
turer's installation instructions.
G2415.17 (404.17) Plastic pipe. The installation of plastic
pipe shall comply with Sections G2415.15.1 through
G241 5.15.3.
G2415.17.1 (404.17.1) Limitations. Plastic pipe shall be
installed outdoors underground only. Plastic p;/?e shall not
be used within or under any building or slab or be operated
at pressures greater than 100 psig (689 kPa) for natural gas
or 30 psig (207 kPa) for LP-gas.
Exceptions:
1. Plastic pipe shall be permitted to terminate above
ground outside of buildings where installed in
premanufactured anodeless risers or service head
adapter risers that are installed in accordance
with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
2. Plastic pipe shall be permitted to terminate with a
wall head adapter within buildings where the
plastic pipe is inserted in a piping material for
fuel gas use in buildings.
3. Plastic pipe shall be permitted under outdoor
patio, walkway and driveway slabs provided that
the burial depth complies with Section G2415.10.
G2415.17.2 (404.17.2) Connections. Connections out-
doors and underground between metallic and plastic pip-
ing shall be made only with transition fittings conforming
to ASTM D 25 13 Category I or ASTM F 1973.
G2415.17.3 (404.17.3) Tracer. A yellow insulated copper
tracer wire or other approved conductor shall be installed
adjacent to underground nonmetallic piping. Access shall
be provided to the tracer wire or the tracer wire shall ter-
minate above ground at each end of the nonmetallic pip-
ing. The tracer wire size shall not be less than 18 AWG
and the insulation type shall be suitable for direct burial.
G2415.18 (404.18) Prohibited devices. A device shall not be
placed inside the piping or fittings that will reduce the cross-
sectional area or otherwise obstruct the free flow of gas.
Exceptions:
1 . Approved gas filters.
2. An approved fitting or device where the gas piping
system has been sized to accommodate the pressure
drop of the fitting or device.
G2415.19 (404.19) Testing of piping. Before any system of
piping is put in service or concealed, it shall be tested to
ensure that it is gas tight. Testing, inspection and purging of
piping systems shall comply with Section G2417.
SECTION G241 6 (405)
PIPING BENDS AND CHANGES !N DIRECTION
G2416.1 (405.1) General. Changes in direction of pipe shall
be permitted to be made by the use of fittings, factory bends
or field bends.
G2416.2 (405.2) Metallic pipe. Metallic pipe bends shall
comply with the following:
1. Bends shall be made only with bending tools and pro-
cedures intended for that purpose.
2. All bends shall be smooth and free from buckling,
cracks or other evidence of mechanical damage.
3. The longitudinal weld of the pipe shall be near the neu-
tral axis of the bend.
4. Pipe shall not be bent through an arc of more than 90
degrees (1.6 rad).
5. The inside radius of a bend shall be not less than six
times the outside diameter of the pipe.
G2416.3 (405.3) Plastic pipe. Plastic pipe bends shall com-
ply with the following:
1 . The pipe shall not be damaged and the internal diame-
ter of the pipe shall not be effectively reduced.
2. Joints shall not be located in pipe bends.
3. The radius of the inner curve of such bends shall not be
less than 25 times the inside diameter of the pipe.
4. Where the piping manufacturer specifies the use of spe-
cial bending tools or procedures, such tools or proce-
dures shall be used.
SECTION G241 7 (406)
INSPECTION, TESTING AND PURGING
G2417.1 (406.1) General. Prior to acceptance and initial
operation, all piping installations shall be visually inspected j
and pressure tested to determine that the materials, design,
fabrication and installation practices comply with the require-
ments of this code.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
575
FUEL GAS
G2417.1.1 (406.1.1) Inspections. Inspection shall consist
of visual examination, during or after manufacture, fabri-
cation, assembly or pressure tests as appropriate.
G2417.1.2 (406.1.2) Repairs and additions. In the event
repairs or additions are made after the pressure test, the
affected piping shall be tested.
Minor repairs and additions are not required to be pres-
sure tested provided that the work is inspected and con-
nections are tested with a noncorrosive leak-detecting
fluid or other approved leak-detecting methods.
G2417.1.3 (406.1.3) New branches. Where new branches
are installed to new appliances, only the newly installed
branches shall be required to be pressure tested. Connec-
tions between the new piping and the existing piping shall
be tested with a noncorrosive leak-detecting fluid or other
approved leak-detecting methods.
G2417.1.4 (406.1.4) Section testing. A piping system
shall be permitted to be tested as a complete unit or in sec-
tions. Under no circumstances shall a valve in a line be
used as a bulkhead between gas in one section of the pip-
ing system and test medium in an adjacent section, unless
two valves are installed in series with a valved "tell-tale"
located between these valves. A valve shall not be sub-
jected to the test pressure unless it can be determined that
the valve, including the valve closing mechanism, is
designed to safely withstand the test pressure.
G2417.1.5 (406.1.5) Regulators and valve assemblies.
Regulator and valve assemblies fabricated independently
of the piping system in which they are to be installed shall
be permitted to be tested with inert gas or air at the time of
fabrication.
G2417.1.6 (406.1.6) Pipe clearing. Prior to testing, the
interior of the pipe shall be cleared of all foreign material.
G2417.2 (406.2) Test medium. The test medium shall be air,
nitrogen, carbon dioxide or an inert gas. Oxygen shall not be
used.
G2417.3 (406.3) Test preparation. Pipe joints, including
welds, shall be left exposed for examination during the test.
Exception: Covered or concealed pipe end joints that
have been previously tested in accordance with this code.
G2417.3.1 (406.3.1) Expansion joints. Expansion joints
shall be provided with temporary restraints, if required, for
the additional thrust load under test.
G2417.3.2 (406.3.2) Equipment isolation. Equipment
that is not to be included in the test shall be either discon-
nected from the piping or isolated by blanks, blind flanges
or caps.
G2417.3.3 (406.3.3) Appliance and equipment discon-
nection. Where the piping system is connected to appli-
ances or equipment designed for operating pressures of
less than the test pressure, such appliances or equipment
shall be isolated from the piping system by disconnecting
them and capping the outlet(s).
G2417.3.4 (406.3.4) Valve isolation. Where the piping
system is connected to appliances or equipment designed
for operating pressures equal to or greater than the test
pressure, such appliances or equipment shall be isolated
from the piping system by closing the individual appliance
or equipment shutoff valve(s).
G2417.3.5 (406.3.5) Testing precautions. All testing of
piping systems shall be performed in a manner that pro-
tects the safety of employees and the public during the
test.
G2417.4 (406.4) Test pressure measurement. Test pressure
shall be measured with a manometer or with a pressure-mea-
suring device designed and calibrated to read, record, or indi-
cate a pressure loss caused by leakage during the pressure
test period. The source of pressure shall be isolated before the
pressure tests are made. Mechanical gauges used to measure
test pressures shall have a range such that the highest end of
the scale is not greater than five times the test pressure.
G2417.4.1 (406.4.1) Test pressure. The test pressure to
be used shall be not less than one and one-half times the
proposed maximum working pressure, but not less than 3
psig (20 kPa gauge), irrespective of design pressure.
Where the test pressure exceeds 125 psig (862 kPa gauge),
the test pressure shall not exceed a value that produces a
hoop stress in the piping greater than 50 percent of the
specified minimum yield strength of the pipe.
G2417.4.2 (406.4.2) Test duration. The test duration
shall be not less than 10 minutes.
G2417.5 (406.5) Detection of leaks and defects. The piping
system shall withstand the test pressure specified without
showing any evidence of leakage or other defects. Any reduc-
tion of test pressures as indicated by pressure gauges shall be
deemed to indicate the presence of a leak unless such reduc-
tion can be readily attributed to some other cause.
G2417.5.1 (406.5.1) Detection methods. The leakage
shall be located by means of an approved combustible gas
detector, a noncorrosive leak detection fluid or an equiva-
lent nonflammable solution. Matches, candles, open
flames or other methods that could provide a source of
ignition shall not be used.
G2417.5.2 (406.5.2) Corrections. Where leakage or other
defects are located, the affected portion of the piping sys-
tem shall be repaired or replaced and retested.
G2417.6 (406.6) Piping system and equipment leakage
check. Leakage checking of systems and equipment shall be
in accordance with Sections G2417.6.1 through G2417.6.4.
G2417.6.1 (406.6.1) Test gases. Fuel gas shall be permit-
ted to be used for leak checks in piping systems that have
been tested in accordance with Section G2417.
G2417.6.2 (406.6.2) Turning gas on. During the process
of turning gas on into a system of new gas piping, the
entire system shall be inspected to determine that there are
no open fittings or ends and that all valves at unused out-
lets are closed and plugged or capped.
G2417.6.3 (406.6.3) Leak check. Immediately after the
gas is turned on into a new system or into a system that has
been initially restored after an interruption of service, the
576
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
piping system shall be checked for leakage. Where leakage
is indicated, the gas supply shall be shut off until the nec-
essary repairs have been made.
G24 17.6.4 (406.6.4) Placing appliances and equipment
in operation. Appliances and equipment shall not be
placed in operation until after the piping system has been
checked for leakage in accordance with Section
G2417.6.3, the piping system has been purged in accor-
dance with Section G2417.7 and the connections to the
appliances have been checked for leakage.
G2417.7 (406.7) Purging. The purging of piping shall be in
accordance with Sections G241 7.7.1 through 2417.7.3.
G2417.7.1 (406.7.1) Piping systems required to be
purged outdoors. The purging of piping systems shall be
in accordance with the provisions of Sections G2417.7.1.1
through G24 17.7. 1.4 where the piping system meets either
of the following:
1 . The design operating gas pressure is greater than 2
psig (13.79 kPa).
2. The piping being purged contains one or more sec-
tions of pipe or tubing meeting the size and length
criteria of Table G2417.7.1.1.
G2417.7.1.1 (406.7.1.1) Removal from service.
Where existing gas piping is opened, the section that is
opened shall be isolated from the gas supply and the
line pressure vented in accordance with Section
G2417.7.1.3. Where gas piping meeting the criteria of
Table G2417.7.1.1 is removed from service, the resid-
ual fuel gas in the piping shall be displaced with an
inert gas.
TABLE G241 7.7.1.1
SIZE AND LENGTH OF PIPING
NOMINAL PIPE SIZE
(inches)"
LENGTH OF PIPING
(feet)
>27 2 <3
>50
>3<4
>30
>4<6
>15
>6<8
>10
>8
Any length
For SI: l inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. CSST EHD size of 62 is equivalent to nominal 2-inch pipe or tubing size.
G2417.7.1.2 (406.7.1.2) Placing in operation. Where
gas piping containing air and meeting the criteria of
Table G2417.7.1.1 is placed in operation, the air in the
piping shall first be displaced with an inert gas. The
inert gas shall then be displaced with fuel gas in accor-
dance with Section G2417.7.1.3.
G2417.7.1.3 (406.7.1.3) Outdoor discharge of
purged gases. The open end of a piping system being
pressure vented or purged shall discharge directly to an
outdoor location. Purging operations shall comply will
all of the following requirements:
1 . The point of discharge shall be controlled with a
shutoff valve.
2. The point of discharge shall be located at least
10 feet (3048 mm) from sources of ignition, as
least 10 feet (3048 mm) from building openings
and at least 25 feet (7620 mm) from mechanical
air intake openings.
3. During discharge, the open point of discharge
shall be continuously attended and monitored
with a combustible gas indicator that complies
with Section G24 17.7. 1.4.
4. Purging operations introducing fuel gas shall be
stopped when 90 percent fuel gas by volume is
detected within the pipe.
5. Persons not involved in the purging operations
shall be evacuated from all areas within 10 feet
(3048 mm) of the point of discharge.
G2417.7.1.4 (406.7.1.4) Combustible gas indicator.
Combustible gas indicators shall be listed and shall be
calibrated in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions. Combustible gas indicators shall numeri-
cally display a volume scale from zero percent to 100
percent in 1 percent or smaller increments.
G241 7.7.2 (406.7.2) Piping systems allowed to be
purged indoors or outdoors. The purging of piping sys-
tems shall be in accordance with the provisions of Section
G2417.7.2.1 where the piping system meets both of the
following:
1. The design operating gas pressure is 2 psig (13.79
kPa) or less.
2. The piping being purged is constructed entirely from
pipe or tubing not meeting the size and length criteria
of Table G2417.7. 1.1.
G2417.7.2.1 (406.7.2.1) Purging procedure. The pip-
ing system shall be purged in accordance with one or
more of the following:
1. The piping shall be purged with fuel gas and
shall discharge to the outdoors.
2. The piping shall be purged with fuel gas and
shall discharge to the indoors or outdoors
through an appliance burner not located in a
combustion chamber. Such burner shall be pro-
vided with a continuous source of ignition.
3. The piping shall be purged with fuel gas and
shall discharge to the indoors or outdoors
through a burner that has a continuous source of
ignition and that is designed for such purpose.
4. The piping shall be purged with fuel gas that is
discharged to the indoors or outdoors, and the
point of discharge shall be monitored with a
listed combustible gas detector in accordance
with Section G24 17.7.2.2. Purging shall be
stopped when fuel gas is detected.
5. The piping shall be purged by the gas supplier in
accordance with written procedures.
G2417.7.2.2 (406.7.2.2) Combustible gas detector.
Combustible gas detectors shall be listed and shall be
calibrated or tested in accordance with the manufac-
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
577
FUEL GAS
turer's instructions. Combustible gas detectors shall be
capable of indicating the presence of fuel gas.
G2417.7.3 (406.7.3) Purging appliances and equip-
ment. After the piping system has been placed in opera-
tion, appliances and equipment shall be purged before
being placed into operation.
SECTION G241 8 (407)
PIPING SUPPORT
G2418.1 (407.1) General. Piping shall be provided with sup-
port in accordance with Section G2418.2.
G2418.2 (407.2) Design and installation. Piping shall be
supported with metal pipe hooks, metal pipe straps, metal
bands, metal brackets, metal hangers or building structural
components suitable for the size of piping, of adequate
strength and quality, and located at intervals so as to prevent
or damp out excessive vibration. Piping shall be anchored to
prevent undue strains on connected appliances and shall not
be supported by other piping. Pipe hangers and supports shall
conform to the requirements of MSS SP-58 and shall be
spaced in accordance with Section G2424. Supports, hangers
and anchors shall be installed so as not to interfere with the
free expansion and contraction of the piping between
anchors. All parts of the supporting equipment shall be
designed and installed so that they will not be disengaged by
movement of the supported piping.
TO GAS SUPPLY IF BRANCH
CONNECTS TO APPLIANCE
OR TO APPLIANCE IF
BRANCH CONNECTS TO GAS SUPPLY
NIPPLE
OF ANY
LENGTH -
CAP.
SECTION G241 9 (408)
DRIPS AND SLOPED PIPING
G2419.1 (408.1) Slopes. Piping for other than dry gas condi-
tions shall be sloped not less than 0.25 inch in 15 feet (6.4
mm in 4572 mm) to prevent traps.
G2419.2 (408.2) Drips. Where wet gas exists, a drip shall be
provided at any point in the line of pipe where condensate
could collect. A drip shall also be provided at the outlet of the
meter and shall be installed so as to constitute a trap wherein
an accumulation of condensate will shut off the flow of gas
before the condensate will run back into the meter.
G2419.3 (408.3) Location of drips. Drips shall be provided
with ready access to permit cleaning or emptying. A drip
shall not be located where the condensate is subject to freez-
FIGUREG2419.4
METHOD OF INSTALLING A TEE FITTING SEDIMENT TRAP
SECTION G2420 (409)
GAS SHUTOFF VALVES
G2420.1 (409.1) General. Piping systems shall be provided
with shutoff valves in accordance with this section.
G2420.1.1 (409.1.1) Valve approval. Shutoff valves shall
be of an approved type; shall be constructed of materials
compatible with the piping; and shall comply with the
standard that is applicable for the pressure and application,
in accordance with Table G2420.1 . 1.
G2420.1.2 (409.1.2) Prohibited locations. Shutoff valves
shall be prohibited in concealed locations and furnace ple-
G2419.4 (408.4) Sediment trap. Where a sediment trap is
not incorporated as part of the appliance, a sediment trap shall
be installed downstream of the appliance shutoff valve as
close to the inlet of the appliance as practical. The sediment
trap shall be either a tee fitting having a capped nipple of any
length installed vertically in the bottommost opening of the
tee as illustrated in Figure G2419.4 or other device approved
as an effective sediment trap. Illuminating appliances, ranges,
clothes dryers, decorative vented appliances for installation in
vented fireplaces, gas fireplaces, and outdoor grills need not
be so equipped.
G2420.1.3 (409.1.3) Access to shutoff valves. Shutoff
valves shall be located in places so as to provide access for
operation and shall be installed so as to be protected from
damage.
G2420.2 (409.2) Meter valve. Every meter shall be equipped
with a shutoff valve located on the supply side of the meter.
G2420.3 (409.3.2) Individual buildings. In a common sys-
tem serving more than one building, shutoff valves shall be
installed outdoors at each building.
G2420.4 (409.4) MP regulator valves. A listed shutoff valve
shall be installed immediately ahead of each MP regulator.
578
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
TABLE G2420.1.1
MANUAL GAS VALVE STANDARDS
VALVE STANDARDS
APPLIANCE SHUTOFF
VALVE APPLICATION UP TO
% psig PRESSURE
OTHER VALVE APPLICATIONS
UP TO
7 2 psig PRESSURE
UP TO
2 psig PRESSURE
UP TO
5 psig PRESSURE
UP TO
125 psig PRESSURE
ANSIZ21.15
X
—
—
—
—
ASMEB 16.44
X
X
X a
X b
—
ASMEB 16.33
X
X
X
X
X
For SI: I pound per square inch gauge = 6.895 kPa.
a. If labeled 2G.
b. If labeled 5G.
G2420.5 (409.5) Appliance shutoff valve. Each appliance
shall be provided with a shutoff valve in accordance with
Section G2420.5.1, G2420.5.2 or G2420.5.3.
G2420.5.1 (409.5.1) Located within same room. The
shutoff valve shall be located in the same room as the
appliance. The shutoff valve shall be within 6 feet (1829
mm) of the appliance, and shall be installed upstream of
the union, connector or quick disconnect device it serves.
Such shutoff valves shall be provided with access. Appli-
ance shutoff valves located in the firebox of a fireplace
shall be installed in accordance with the appliance manu-
facturer's instructions.
G2420.5.2 (409.5.2) Vented decorative appliances and
room heaters. Shutoff valves for vented decorative appli-
ances, room heaters and decorative appliances for installa-
tion in vented fireplaces shall be permitted to be installed
in an area remote from the appliances where such valves
are provided with ready access. Such valves shall be per-
manently identified and shall serve no other appliance.
The piping from the shutoff valve to within 6 feet (1829
mm) of the appliance shall be designed, sized and
installed in accordance with Sections G2412 through
G2419.
G2420.5.3 (409.5.3) Located at manifold. Where the
appliance shutoff valve is installed at a manifold, such
shutoff valve shall be located within 50 feet (15 240 mm)
of the appliance served and shall be readily accessible and
permanently identified. The piping from the manifold to
within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the appliance shall be
designed, sized and installed in accordance with Sections
G241 2 through G2419.
SECTION G2421 (410)
FLOW CONTROLS
G2421.1 (410.1) Pressure regulators. A line pressure regu-
lator shall be installed where the appliance is designed to
operate at a lower pressure than the supply pressure. Line gas
pressure regulators shall be listed as complying with ANSI
Z21.80. Access shall be provided to pressure regulators.
Pressure regulators shall be protected from physical damage.
Regulators installed on the exterior of the building shall be
approved for outdoor installation.
G2421.2 (410.2) MP regulators. MP pressure regulators
shall comply with the following:
1. The MP regulator shall be approved and shall be suit-
able for the inlet and outlet gas pressures for the appli-
cation.
2. The MP regulator shall maintain a reduced outlet pres-
sure under lockup (no-flow) conditions.
3. The capacity of the MP regulator, determined by pub-
lished ratings of its manufacturer, shall be adequate to
supply the appliances served.
4. The MP pressure regulator shall be provided with
access. Where located indoors, the regulator shall be
vented to the outdoors or shall be equipped with a leak-
limiting device, in either case complying with Section
G2421.3.
5. A tee fitting with one opening capped or plugged shall
be installed between the MP regulator and its upstream
shutoff valve. Such tee fitting shall be positioned to
allow connection of a pressure measuring instrument
and to serve as a sediment trap.
6. A tee fitting with one opening capped or plugged shall
be installed not less than 10 pipe diameters downstream
of the MP regulator outlet. Such tee fitting shall be
positioned to allow connection of a pressure measuring
instrument.
G2421.3 (410.3) Venting of regulators. Pressure regulators
that require a vent shall be vented directly to the outdoors.
The vent shall be designed to prevent the entry of insects,
water and foreign objects.
Exception: A vent to the outdoors is not required for reg-
ulators equipped with and labeled for utilization with an
approved vent-limiting device installed in accordance with
the manufacturer's instructions.
G2421.3.1 (410.3.1) Vent piping. Vent piping for relief
vents and breather vents shall be constructed of materials
allowed for gas piping in accordance with Section G2414.
Vent piping shall be not smaller than the vent connection
on the pressure regulating device. Vent piping serving
relief vents and combination relief and breather vents
shall be run independently to the outdoors and shall serve
only a single device vent. Vent piping serving only
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
579
FUEL GAS
breather vents is permitted to be connected in a manifold
arrangement where sized in accordance with an approved
design that minimizes back pressure in the event of dia-
phragm rupture. Regulator vent piping shall not exceed
the length specified in the regulator manufacturer's instal-
lation instructions.
G2421.4 (410.4) Excess flow valves. Where automatic
excess flow valves are installed, they shall be listed for the
application and shall be sized and installed in accordance
with the manufacturer's instructions.
G2421.5 (410.5) Flashback arrestor check valve. Where
fuel gas is used with oxygen in any hot work operation, a
listed protective device that serves as a combination flash-
back arrestor and backflow check valve shall be installed at
an approved location on both the fuel gas and oxygen supply
lines. Where the pressure of the piped fuel gas supply is
insufficient to ensure such safe operation, approved equip-
ment shall be installed between the gas meter and the appli-
ance that increases pressure to the level required for such safe
operation.
SECTION G2422 (411)
APPLIANCE CONNECTIONS
G2422.1 (411.1) Connecting appliances. Appliances shall
be connected to the piping system by one of the following:
1 . Rigid metallic pipe and fittings.
2. Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) where
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
3. Listed and labeled appliance connectors in compliance
with ANSI Z21.24 and installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's installation instructions and located
entirely in the same room as the appliance.
4. Listed and labeled quick-disconnect devices used in
conjunction with listed and labeled appliance connec-
tors.
5. Listed and labeled convenience outlets used in conjunc-
tion with listed and labeled appliance connectors.
6. Listed and labeled outdoor appliance connectors in
compliance with ANSI Z21.75/CSA 6.27 and installed
in accordance with the manufacturer's installation
instructions.
G2422.1.1 (411.1.2) Protection from damage. Connec-
tors and tubing shall be installed so as to be protected
against physical damage.
G2422.1.2 (411.1.3) Connector installation. Appliance
fuel connectors shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions and Sections G2422. 1.2.1
through G2422. 1.2.4.
G2422.1.2.1 (411.1.3.1) Maximum length. Connec-
tors shall not exceed 6 feet (1829 mm) in overall
length. Measurement shall be made along the centerline
of the connector. Only one connector shall be used for
each appliance.
Exception: Rigid metallic piping used to connect an
appliance to the piping system shall be permitted to
have a total length greater than 6 feet (1829 mm)
provided that the connecting pipe is sized as part of
the piping system, in accordance with Section G2413
and the location of the appliance shutoff valve com-
plies with Section G2420.5 .
G2422.1.2.2 (411.1.3.2) Minimum size. Connectors
shall have the capacity for the total demand of the con-
nected appliance.
G2422.1.2.3 (411.1.3.3) Prohibited locations and
penetrations. Connectors shall not be concealed
within, or extended through, walls, floors, partitions,
ceilings or appliance housings.
Exceptions:
1. Connectors constructed of materials allowed
for piping systems in accordance with Section
G2414 shall be permitted to pass through
walls, floors, partitions and ceilings where
installed in accordance with Section
G2420.5.2orG2420.5.3.
2. Rigid steel pipe connectors shall be permitted
to extend through openings in appliance hous-
ings.
3. Fireplace inserts that are factory equipped
with grommets, sleeves or other means of pro-
tection in accordance with the listing of the
appliance.
4. Semirigid tubing and listed connectors shall
be permitted to extend through an opening in
an appliance housing, cabinet or casing where
the tubing or connector is protected against
damage.
G2422.1.2.4 (411.1.3.4) Shutoff valve. A shutoff valve
not less than the nominal size of the connector shall be
installed ahead of the connector in accordance with
Section G2420.5.
G2422.1.3 (411.1.5) Connection of gas engine-powered
air conditioners. Internal combustion engines shall not be
rigidly connected to the gas supply piping.
G2422.1.4 (411.1.6) Unions. A union fitting shall be pro-
vided for appliances connected by rigid metallic pipe.
Such unions shall be accessible and located within 6 feet
(1829 mm) of the appliance.
G2422.1.5 (411.1.4) Movable appliances. Where appli-
ances are equipped with casters or are otherwise subject to
periodic movement or relocation for purposes such as rou-
tine cleaning and maintenance, such appliances shall be
connected to the supply system piping by means of an
approved flexible connector designed and labeled for the
application. Such flexible connectors shall be installed and
580
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
protected against physical damage in accordance with the
manufacturer's installation instructions.
G2422.2 (411.3) Suspended low-Intensity infrared tube
heaters. Suspended low-intensity infrared tube heaters shall
be connected to the building piping system with a connector
listed for the application complying with ANSI Z21.24/CGA
6. 10. The connector shall be installed as specified by the tube
heater manufacturer's instructions.
SECTION G2423 (413)
CNG GAS-DISPENSING SYSTEMS
G2423.1 (413.1) General. Motor fuel-dispensing facilities
for CNG fuel shall be in accordance with Section 413 of the
International Fuel Gas Code.
SECTION G2424 (415)
PIPING SUPPORT INTERVALS
G2424.1 (415.1) Interval of support. Piping shall be sup-
ported at intervals not exceeding the spacing specified in
Table G2424.1. Spacing of supports for CSST shall be in
accordance with the CSST manufacturer's instructions.
TABLE G2424.1
SUPPORT OF PIPING
STEEL PIPE,
NOMINAL SIZE
OF PIPE
(inches)
SPACING OF
SUPPORTS
(feet)
NOMINAL SIZE
OF TUBING
SMOOTH-WALL
(inch O.D.)
SPACING OF
SUPPORTS
(feet)
%
6
%
4
3 / 4 ort
8
%ov%
6
1 V 4 or larger
(horizontal)
10
(horizontal)
8
l'/ 4 or larger
(vertical)
Every floor
level
1 or larger
(vertical)
Every floor
level
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
SECTION G2425 (501)
GENERAL
G2425.1 (501.1) Scope. This section shall govern the instal-
lation, maintenance, repair and approval of factory-built and
masonry chimneys, chimney liners, vents and connectors
serving gas-fired appliances.
G2425.2 (501.2) General. Every appliance shall discharge
the products of combustion to the outdoors, except for appli-
ances exempted by Section G2425.8.
G2425.3 (501.3) Masonry chimneys. Masonry chimneys
shall be constructed in accordance with Section G2427.5 and
Chapter 10.
G2425.4 (501.4) Minimum size of chimney or vent. Chim-
neys and vents shall be sized in accordance with Sections
G2427 and G2428.
G2425.5 (501.5) Abandoned inlet openings. Abandoned
inlet openings in chimneys and vents shall be closed by an
approved method.
G2425.6 (501.6) Positive pressure. Where an appliance
equipped with a mechanical forced draft system creates a
positive pressure in the venting system, the venting system
shall be designed for positive pressure applications.
G2425.7 (501.7) Connection to fireplace. Connection of
appliances to chimney flues serving fireplaces shall be in
accordance with Sections G2425.7.1 through G2425.7.3.
G2425.7.1 (501.7.1) Closure and access. A noncombusti-
ble seal shall be provided below the point of connection to
prevent entry of room air into the flue. Means shall be pro-
vided for access to the flue for inspection and cleaning.
G2425.7.2 (501.7.2) Connection to factory-built fire-
place flue. An appliance shall not be connected to a flue
serving a factory-built fireplace unless the appliance is
specifically listed for such installation. The connection
shall be made in accordance with the appliance manufac-
turer's installation instructions.
G2425.7.3 (501.7.3) Connection to masonry fireplace
flue. A connector shall extend from the appliance to the
flue serving a masonry fireplace such that the flue gases
are exhausted directly into the flue. The connector shall be
accessible or removable for inspection and cleaning of
both the connector and the flue. Listed direct connection
devices shall be installed in accordance with their listing.
G2425.8 (501.8) Appliances not required to be vented. The
following appliances shall not be required to be vented:
1. Ranges.
2. Built-in domestic cooking units listed and marked for
optional venting.
3. Hot plates and laundry stoves.
4. Type J clothes dryers (Type 1 clothes dryers shall be
exhausted in accordance with the requirements of Sec-
tion G2439).
5. Refrigerators.
6. Counter appliances.
7. Room heaters listed for unvented use.
Where the appliances listed in Items 5 through 7 above are
installed so that the aggregate input rating exceeds 20 Btu per
hour per cubic foot (207 W/m 3 ) of volume of the room or
space in which such appliances are installed, one or more
shall be provided with venting systems or other approved
means for conveying the vent gases to the outdoor atmo-
sphere so that the aggregate input rating of the remaining
unvented appliances does not exceed 20 Btu per hour per
cubic foot (207 W/m 3 ). Where the room or space in which the
appliance is installed is directly connected to another room or
space by a doorway, archway or other opening of comparable
size that cannot be closed, the volume of such adjacent room
or space shall be permitted to be included in the calculations.
G2425.9 (501.9) Chimney entrance. Connectors shall con-
nect to a masonry chimney flue at a point not less than 12
inches (305 mm) above the lowest portion of the interior of
the chimney flue.
G2425.10 (501.10) Connections to exhauster. Appliance
connections to a chimney or vent equipped with a power
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE"
581
FUEL GAS
exhauster shall be made on the inlet side of the exhauster.
Joints on the positive pressure side of the exhauster shall be
sealed to prevent flue-gas leakage as specified by the manu-
facturer's installation instructions for the exhauster.
G2425.ll (501.11) Masonry chimneys. Masonry chimneys
utilized to vent appliances shall be located, constructed and
sized as specified in the manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions for the appliances being vented and Section G2427.
G2425.12 (501.12) Residential and low-heat appliances
flue lining systems. Flue lining systems for use with residen-
tial-type and low-heat appliances shall be limited to the fol-
lowing:
1. Clay flue lining complying with the requirements of
ASTM C 315 or equivalent. Clay flue lining shall be
installed in accordance with Chapter 10.
2. Listed chimney lining systems complying with UL
1777.
3. Other approved materials that will resist, without
cracking, softening or corrosion, flue gases and con-
densate at temperatures up to 1,800°F (982°C).
G2425.13 (501.13) Category I appliance flue lining sys-
tems. Flue lining systems for use with Category I appliances
shall be limited to the following:
1. Flue lining systems complying with Section G2425.12.
2. Chimney lining systems listed and labeled for use with
appliances with draft hoods and other Category I gas
appliances listed and labeled for use with Type B
vents.
G2425.14 (501.14) Category II, III and IV appliance vent-
ing systems. The design, sizing and installation of vents for
Category II, III and IV appliances shall be in accordance with
the appliance manufacturer's installation instructions.
G2425.15 (501.15) Existing chimneys and vents. Where an
appliance is permanently disconnected from an existing
chimney or vent, or where an appliance is connected to an
existing chimney or vent during the process of a new installa-
tion, the chimney or vent shall comply with Sections
G2425. 15.1 through G2425.15.4.
G2425.15.1 (501.15.1) Size. The chimney or vent shall be
resized as necessary to control flue gas condensation in the
interior of the chimney or vent and to provide the appli-
ance or appliances served with the required draft. For Cat-
egory I appliances, the resizing shall be in accordance
with Section G2426.
G2425.15.2 (501.15.2) Flue passageways. The flue gas
passageway shall be free of obstructions and combustible
deposits and shall be cleaned if previously used for vent-
ing a solid or liquid fuel-burning appliance or fireplace.
The flue liner, chimney inner wall or vent inner wall shall
be continuous and shall be free of cracks, gaps, perfora-
tions, or other damage or deterioration that would allow
the escape of combustion products, including gases, mois-
ture and creosote.
G2425.15.3 (501.15.3) Cleanout. Masonry chimney flues
shall be provided with a cleanout opening having a mini-
mum height of 6 inches (152 mm). The upper edge of the
opening shall be located not less than 6 inches (152 mm)
below the lowest chimney inlet opening. The cleanout
shall be provided with a tight-fitting, noncombustible
cover.
G2425.15.4 (501.15.4) Clearances. Chimneys and vents
shall have airspace clearance to combustibles in accor-
dance with Chapter 10 and the chimney or vent manufac-
turer's installation instructions.
Exception: Masonry chimneys without the required
air-space clearances shall be permitted to be used if
lined or relined with a chimney lining system listed for
use in chimneys with reduced clearances in accordance
with UL 1777. The chimney clearance shall be not less
than that permitted by the terms of the chimney liner
listing and the manufacturer's instructions.
G2425.15.4.1 (501.15.4.1) Fireblocking. Noncombus-
tible fireblocking shall be provided in accordance with
Chapter 10.
SECTION G2426 (502)
VENTS
G2426.1 (502.1) General. All vents, except as provided in
Section G2427.7, shall be listed and labeled. Type B and BW
vents shall be tested in accordance with UL 441. Type L
vents shall be tested in accordance with UL 641. Vents for
Category II and III appliances shall be tested in accordance
with UL 1738. Plastic vents for Category IV appliances shall
not be required to be listed and labeled where such vents are
as specified by the appliance manufacturer and are installed
in accordance with the appliance manufacturer's installation
instructions.
G2426.2 (502.2) Connectors required. Connectors shall be
used to connect appliances to the vertical chimney or vent,
except where the chimney or vent is attached directly to the
appliance. Vent connector size, material, construction and
installation shall be in accordance with Section G2427.
G2426.3 (502.3) Vent application. The application of vents
shall be in accordance with Table G2427.4.
G2426.4 (502.4) Insulation shield. Where vents pass
through insulated assemblies, an insulation shield constructed
of steel having a minimum thickness of 0.0187 inch (0.4712
mm) (26 gage) shall be installed to provide clearance
between the vent and the insulation material. The clearance
shall not be less than the clearance to combustibles specified
by the vent manufacturer's installation instructions. Where
vents pass through attic space, the shield shall terminate not
less than 2 inches (51 mm) above the insulation materials and
shall be secured in place to prevent displacement. Insulation
shields provided as part of a listed vent system shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation
instructions.
G2426.5 (502.5) Installation. Vent systems shall be sized,
installed and terminated in accordance with the vent and
appliance manufacturer's installation instructions and Sec-
tion G2427.
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G2426.6 (502.6) Support of vents. All portions of vents
shall be adequately supported for the design and weight of the
materials employed.
G2426.7 (502.7) Protection against physical damage. In
concealed locations, where a vent is installed through holes
or notches in studs, joists, rafters or similar members less
than 1 V 2 inches (38 mm) from the nearest edge of the mem-
ber, the vent shall be protected by shield plates. Protective
steel shield plates having a minimum thickness of 0.0575-
inch (1.463 mm) (16 gage) shall cover the area of the vent
where the member is notched or bored and shall extend a
minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) above sole plates, below top
plates and to each side of a stud, joist or rafter.
SECTION G2427 (503)
VENTING OF APPLIANCES
IG2427.1 (503.1) General. The venting of appliances shall be
in accordance with Sections G2427.2 through G2427.16.
G2427.2 (503.2) Venting systems required. Except as per-
mitted in Sections G2427.2.1, G2427.2.2 and G2425.8, all
appliances shall be connected to venting systems.
G2427.2.1 (503.2.3) Direct-vent appliances. Listed
direct-vent appliances shall be installed in accordance
with the manufacturer's instructions and Section G2427.8,
Item 3.
G2427.2.2 (503.2.4) Appliances with integral vents.
Appliances incorporating integral venting means shall be
considered properly vented where installed in accordance
with the manufacturer's instructions and Section G2427.8,
Items 1 and 2.
G2427.3 (503.3) Design and construction. A venting system
shall be designed and constructed so as to develop a positive
flow adequate to convey flue or vent gases to the outdoors.
G2427.3.1 (503.3.1) Appliance draft requirements. A
venting system shall satisfy the draft requirements of the
appliance in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
G2427.3.2 (503.3.2) Design and construction. Appli-
ances required to be vented shall be connected to a venting
system designed and installed in accordance with the pro-
visions of Sections G2427.4 through G2427.16.
G2427.3.3 (503.3.3) Mechanical draft systems. Mechan-
ical draft systems shall comply with the following:
1 . Mechanical draft systems shall be listed and shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's
installation instructions for both the appliance and
the mechanical draft system.
2. Appliances, except incinerators, requiring venting
shall be permitted to be vented by means of mechan-
ical draft systems of either forced or induced draft
design.
3. Forced draft systems and all portions of induced
draft systems under positive pressure during opera-
tion shall be designed and installed so as to prevent
leakage of flue or vent gases into a building.
4. Vent connectors serving appliances vented by natu-
ral draft shall not be connected into any portion of
mechanical draft systems operating under positive
pressure.
5. Where a mechanical draft system is employed, pro-
visions shall be made to prevent the flow of gas to
the main burners when the draft system is not per-
forming so as to satisfy the operating requirements
of the appliance for safe performance.
6. The exit terminals of mechanical draft systems shall
be not less than 7 feet (2134 mm) above finished
ground level where located adjacent to public walk-
ways and shall be located as specified in Section
G2427.8, Items 1 and 2.
G2427.3.4 (503.3.5) Air ducts and furnace plenums.
Venting systems shall not extend into or pass through any
fabricated air duct ox furnace plenum.
G2427.3.5 (503.3.6) Above-ceiling air-handling spaces.
Where a venting system passes through an above-ceiling
air-handling space or other nonducted portion of an air-
handling system, the venting system shall conform to one
of the following requirements:
1. The venting system shall be a listed special gas vent;
other venting system serving a Category III or Cate-
gory IV appliance; or other positive pressure vent,
with joints sealed in accordance with the appliance
or vent manufacturer's instructions.
2. The venting system shall be installed such that fit-
tings and joints between sections are not installed in
the above-ceiling space.
3. The venting system shall be installed in a conduit or
enclosure with sealed joints separating the interior
of the conduit or enclosure from the ceiling space.
G2427.4 (503.4) Type of venting system to be used. The
type of venting system to be used shall be in accordance with
Table G2427.4.
G2427.4.1 (503.4.1) Plastic piping. Plastic piping used
for venting appliances listed for use with such venting
materials shall be approved.
G2427.4.1.1 (503.4.1.1) (IFGS) Plastic vent joints.
Plastic pipe and fittings used to vent appliances shall be
installed in accordance with the appliance manufac-
turer's installation instructions. Where a primer is
required, it shall be of a contrasting color.
G2427.4.2 (503.4.2) Special gas vent. Special gas vent
shall be listed and installed in accordance with the special
gas vent manufacturer's installation instructions.
G2427.5 (503.5) Masonry, metal and factory-built chim-
neys. Masonry, metal and factory-built chimneys shall com-
ply with Sections G2427.5.1 through G2427.5.9.
G2427.5.1 (503.5.1) Factory-built chimneys. Factory-
built chimneys shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's installation instructions. Factory-built
chimneys used to vent appliances that operate at a positive
vent pressure shall be listed for such application.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
583
FUEL GAS
TABLE G2427.4
TYPE OF VENTING SYSTEM TO BE USED
APPLIANCES
TYPE OF VENTING SYSTEM
Listed Category I appliances
Listed appliances equipped with draft hood
Appliances listed for use with Type B gas vent
Type B gas vent (Section G2427.6)
Chimney (Section G2427.5)
Single-wall metal pipe (Section G2427.7)
Listed chimney lining system for gas venting (Section G2427.5.2)
Special gas vent listed for these appliances (Section G2427.4.2)
Listed vented wall furnaces
Type B-W gas vent (Sections G2427.6, G2436)
Category II appliances
As specified or furnished by manufacturers of listed appliances
(Sections G2427.4.1, G2427.4.2)
Category III appliances
As specified or furnished by manufacturers of listed appliances
(Sections G2427.4.1, G2427.4.2)
Category IV appliances
As specified or furnished by manufacturers of listed appliances
(Sections G2427.4.1, G2427.4.2)
Unlisted appliances
Chimney (Section G2427.5)
Decorative appliances in vented fireplaces
Chimney
Direct-vent appliances
See Section G2427.2.1
Appliances with integral vent
See Section G2427.2.2
G2427.5.2 (503.5.3) Masonry chimneys. Masonry chim-
neys shall be built and installed in accordance with NFPA
211 and shall be lined with approved clay flue lining, a
listed chimney lining system or other approved material
that will resist corrosion, erosion, softening or cracking
from vent gases at temperatures up to 1,800°F (982°C).
Exception: Masonry chimney flues serving listed gas
appliances with draft hoods, Category I appliances and
other gas appliances listed for use with Type B vents
shall be permitted to be lined with a chimney lining sys-
tem specifically listed for use only with such appli-
ances. The liner shall be installed in accordance with
the liner manufacturer's installation instructions. A per-
manent identifying label shall be attached at the point
where the connection is to be made to the liner. The
label shall read: "This chimney liner is for appliances
that burn gas only. Do not connect to solid or liquid
fuel-burning appliances or incinerators."
G2427.5.3 (503.5.4) Chimney termination. Chimneys for
residential-type or low-heat appliances shall extend at
least 3 feet (914 mm) above the highest point where they
pass through a roof of a building and at least 2 feet (610
mm) higher than any portion of a building within a hori-
zontal distance of 10 feet (3048 mm) (see Figure
G2427.5.3). Chimneys for medium-heat appliances shall
extend at least 10 feet (3048 mm) higher than any portion
of any building within 25 feet (7620 mm). Chimneys shall
extend at least 5 feet (1524 mm) above the highest con-
nected appliance draft hood outlet ox flue collar. Decora-
tive shrouds shall not be installed at the termination of
factory-built chimneys except where such shrouds are
listed and labeled for use with the specific factory-built
chimney system and are installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's installation instructions.
G2427.5.4 (503.5.5) Size of chimneys. The effective area
of a chimney venting system serving listed appliances with
draft hoods, Category I appliances, and other appliances
listed for use with Type B vents shall be determined in
accordance with one of the following methods:
1. The provisions of Section G2428.
2. For sizing an individual chimney venting system for
a single appliance with a draft hood, the effective
areas of the vent connector and chimney flue shall be
not less than the area of the appliance flue collar or
draft hood outlet, nor greater than seven times the
draft hood outlet area.
3. For sizing a chimney venting system connected to
two appliances with draft hoods, the effective area
of the chimney flue shall be not less than the area of
the larger draft hood outlet plus 50 percent of the
area of the smaller draft hood outlet, nor greater than
seven times the smallest draft hood outlet area.
4. Chimney venting systems using mechanical draft
shall be sized in accordance with approved engi-
neering methods.
5. Other approved engineering methods.
G2427.5.5 (503.5.6) Inspection of chimneys. Before
replacing an existing appliance or connecting a vent con-
nector to a chimney, the chimney passageway shall be
examined to ascertain that it is clear and free of obstruc-
tions and it shall be cleaned if previously used for venting
solid or liquid fuel-burning appliances ox fireplaces.
G2427.5.5.1 (503.5.6.1) Chimney lining. Chimneys
shall be lined in accordance with NFPA 21 1.
Exception: Where an existing chimney complies
with Sections G2427.5.5 through G2427.5.5.3 and
its sizing is in accordance with Section G2427.5.4,
its continued use shall be allowed where the appli-
ance vented by that chimney is replaced by an appli-
ance of similar type, input rating and efficiency.
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G2427.5.5.2 (503.5.6.2) Cleanouts. Cleanouts shall be
examined to determine that they will remain tightly
closed when not in use.
G2427.5.5.3 (503.5.6.3) Unsafe chimneys. Where
inspection reveals that an existing chimney is not safe
for the intended application, it shall be repaired, rebuilt,
lined, relined or replaced with a vent or chimney to con-
form to NFPA 21 1 and it shall be suitable for the appli-
ances to be vented.
G2427.5.6 (503.5.7) Chimneys serving appliances burn-
ing other fuels. Chimneys serving appliances burning
other fuels shall comply with Sections G2427. 5.6.1
through G2427.5.6.4.
G2427.5.6.1 (503.5.7.1) Solid fuel-burning appli-
ances. An appliance shall not be connected to a chim-
ney flue serving a separate appliance designed to burn
solid fuel.
G2427.5.6.2 (503.5.7.2) Liquid fuel-burning appli-
ances. Where one chimney flue serves gas appliances
and liquid fuel-burning appliances, the appliances shall
be connected through separate openings or shall be
connected through a single opening where joined by a
suitable fitting located as close as practical to the chim-
ney. Where two or more openings are provided into one
chimney flue, they shall be at different levels. Where
the appliances are automatically controlled, they shall
be equipped with safety shutoff devices.
G2427.5.6.3 (503.5.7.3) Combination gas- and solid
fuel-burning appliances. A combination gas- and
solid fuel-burning appliance equipped with a manual
reset device to shut off gas to the main burner in the
10 FT OR LESS
I
I
JlJl
CHIMNEY
3FTMIN.
MA/A I I nD
'WALL OR
PARAPET
m
CHIMNEY
MORE THAN
10 FT
SEE NOTE a
^
WALL OR
PARAPET
3 FT
MIN.
CHIMNEY
10 FT OR LESS
3 FT MIN.
CHIMNEY
A. TERMINATION 10 FT OR LESS
FROM RIDGE, WALL OR PARAPET
MORE THAN
10 FT
3 FT
MIN.
CHIMNEY
B. TERMINATION MORE THAN 10 FT
FROM RIDGE, WALL OR PARAPET
For SI: l inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
NOTES:
a. No height above parapet required when distance from walls or parapet is more than 10 feet.
b. Height above any roof surface within 10 feet horizontally.
FIGURE G2427.5.3 (503.5.4)
TYPICAL TERMINATION LOCATIONS FOR CHIMNEYS AND SINGLE-WALL
METAL PIPES SERVING RESIDENTIAL-TYPE AND LOW-HEAT APPLIANCES
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
585
FUEL GAS
event of sustained backdraft or flue gas spillage shall be
permitted to be connected to a single chimney flue. The
chimney flue shall be sized to properly vent the appli-
ance.
G2427.5.6.4 (503.5.7.4) Combination gas- and oil
fuel-burning appliances. A listed combination gas-
and oil fuel-burning appliance shall be permitted to be
connected to a single chimney flue. The chimney flue
shall be sized to properly vent the appliance.
G2427.5.7 (503.5.8) Support of chimneys. All portions
of chimneys shall be supported for the design and weight
of the materials employed. Factory-built chimneys shall be
supported and spaced in accordance with the manufac-
turer's installation instructions.
G2427.5.8 (503.5.9) Cleanouts. Where a chimney that
formerly carried flue products from liquid or solid fuel-
burning appliances is used with an appliance using fuel
gas, an accessible cleanout shall be provided. The cleanout
shall have a tight-fitting cover and be installed so its upper
edge is at least 6 inches (152 mm) below the lower edge of
the lowest chimney inlet opening.
G2427.5.9 (503.5.10) Space surrounding lining or vent.
The remaining space surrounding a chimney liner, gas
vent, special gas vent or plastic piping installed within a
masonry chimney flue shall not be used to vent another
appliance. The insertion of another liner or vent within the
chimney as provided in this code and the liner or vent
manufacturer's instructions shall not be prohibited.
The remaining space surrounding a chimney liner, gas
vent, special gas vent or plastic piping installed within a
masonry, metal or factory-built chimney shall not be used
to supply combustion air. Such space shall not be prohib-
ited from supplying combustion air to direct-vent appli-
ances designed for installation in a solid fuel-burning
fireplace and installed in accordance with the manufac-
turer's installation instructions.
G2427.6 (503.6) Gas vents. Gas vents shall comply with
Sections G2427.6.1 through G2427.6.11. (See Section
G2403, Definitions.)
G2427.6.1 (503.6.1) Installation, general. Gas vents shall
be installed in accordance with the terms of their listings
and the manufacturer's instructions.
G2427.6.2 (503.6.2) Type B-W vent capacity. A Type B-
W gas vent shall have a listed capacity not less than that of
the listed vented wall furnace to which it is connected.
G2427.6.3 (503.6.4) Gas vent termination. A gas vent
shall terminate in accordance with one of the following:
1 . Gas vents that are 12 inches (305 mm) or less in size
and located not less than 8 feet (2438 mm) from a
vertical wall or similar obstruction shall terminate
above the roof in accordance with Figure G2427.6.3.
2. Gas vents that are over 12 inches (305 mm) in size
or are located less than 8 feet (2438 mm) from a ver-
tical wall or similar obstruction shall terminate not
less than 2 feet (610 mm) above the highest point
where they pass through the roof and not less than 2
feet (610 mm) above any portion of a building
within 10 feet (3048 mm) horizontally.
3. As provided for direct-vent systems in Section
G2427.2.1.
4. As provided for appliances with integral vents in
Section G2427.2.2.
5. As provided for mechanical draft systems in Section
G2427.3.3.
G2427.6.3.1 (503.6.4.1) Decorative shrouds. Decora-
tive shrouds shall not be installed at the termination of
gas vents except where such shrouds are listed for use
with the specific gas venting system and are installed in
accordance with manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions.
G2427.6.4 (503.6.5) Minimum height. A Type B or L gas
vent shall terminate at least 5 feet (1524 mm) in vertical
height above the highest connected appliance draft hood
or flue collar. A Type B-W gas vent shall terminate at
least 12 feet (3658 mm) in vertical height above the bot-
tom of the wall furnace.
G2427.6.5 (503.6.6) Roof terminations. Gas vents shall
extend through the roof flashing, roof jack or roof thimble
and terminate with a listed cap or listed roof assembly.
G2427.6.6 (503.6.7) Forced air inlets. Gas vents shall
terminate not less than 3 feet (914 mm) above any forced
air inlet located within 10 feet (3048 mm).
G2427.6.7 (503.6.8) Exterior wall penetrations. A gas
vent extending through an exterior wall shall not terminate
adjacent to the wall or below eaves or parapets, except as
provided in Sections G2427.2.1 and G2427.3.3.
G2427.6.8 (503.6.9) Size of gas vents. Venting systems
shall be sized and constructed in accordance with Section
G2428 or other approved engineering methods and the gas
vent and appliance manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions.
G2427.6.8.1 (503.6.9.1) Category I appliances. The
sizing of natural draft venting systems serving one or
more listed appliances equipped with a draft hood or
appliances listed for use with Type B gas vent,
installed in a single story of a building, shall be in
accordance with one of the following methods:
1 . The provisions of Section G2428.
2. For sizing an individual gas vent for a single,
draft-hood-equipped appliance, the effective area
of the vent connector and the gas vent shall be
not less than the area of the appliance draft hood
outlet, nor greater than seven times the draft hood
outlet area.
3. For sizing a gas vent connected to two appliances
with draft hoods, the effective area of the vent
shall be not less than the area of the larger draft
hood outlet plus 50 percent of the area of the
smaller draft hood outlet, nor greater than seven
times the smaller draft hood outlet area.
4. Approved engineering practices.
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G2427.6.8.2 (503.6.9.2) Vent offsets. Type B and L
vents sized in accordance with Item 2 or 3 of Section
G2427. 6.8.1 shall extend in a generally vertical direc-
tion with offsets not exceeding 45 degrees (0.79 rad),
except that a vent system having not more than one 60-
degree (1.04 rad) offset shall be permitted. Any angle
greater than 45 degrees (0.79 rad) from the vertical is
considered horizontal. The total horizontal distance of a
vent plus the horizontal vent connector serving draft
fewd-equipped appliances shall be not greater than 75
percent of the vertical height of the vent.
G2427.6.8.3 (503.6.9.3) Category II, III and IV
appliances. The sizing of gas vents for Category II, III
and IV appliances shall be in accordance with the appli-
ance manufacturer's instructions.
G2427.6.8.4 (503.6.9.4) Mechanical draft. Chimney
venting systems using mechanical draft shall be sized in
accordance with approved engineering methods.
G2427.6.9 (503.6.11) Support of gas vents. Gas vents
shall be supported and spaced in accordance with the man-
ufacturer's installation instructions.
G2427.6.10 (503.6.12) Marking. In those localities where
solid and liquid fuels are used extensively, gas vents shall
be permanently identified by a label attached to the wall or
ceiling at a point where the vent connector enters the gas
vent. The determination of where such localities exist shall
be made by the code official. The label shall read:
"This gas vent is for appliances that burn gas. Do not
connect to solid or liquid fuel-burning appliances or incin-
erators."
LOWEST DISCHARGE
OPENING
LISTED CAP
LISTED GAS
VENT
H(MIN.)-
MINIMUM HEIGHT FROM ROOF
TO LOWEST DISCHARGE OPENING
ROOF SLOPE
H (minimum) ft
Flatto 6 / 12
1.0
Over 6 / l2 to 7 / l2
1.25
Over 7 / l2 to 8 / 12
1.5
Over 8 /, 2 to'7 l2
2.0
Over7 12 to"7 l2
2.5
Over l0 / 12 to"/ l2
3.25
Over"/ l2 to l2 / l2
4.0
Over l2 / l2 to l4 / 12
5.0
Over'7 12 to%
6.0
Over' 6 / l2 to l8 / l2
7.0
Over'7 l2 to 2 7 l2
7.5
Over 2 7 l2 to 2l / l2
8.0
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE G2427.6.3 (503.6.4)
GAS VENT TERMINATION LOCATIONS FOR LISTED CAPS 12 INCHES OR LESS IN SIZE AT LEAST 8 FEET FROM A VERTICAL WALL
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
587
FUEL GAS
G2427.6.11 (503.6.13) Fastener penetrations. Screws,
rivets and other fasteners shall not penetrate the inner wall
of double-wall gas vents, except at the transition from an
appliance draft hood outlet, a flue collar or a single-wall
metal connector to a double-wall vent.
G2427.7 (503.7) Single-wall metal pipe. Single-wall metal
pipe vents shall comply with Sections G2427.7.1 through
G2427.7.13.
G2427.7.1 (503.7.1) Construction. Single-wall metal
pipe shall be constructed of galvanized sheet steel not less
than 0.0304 inch (0.7 mm) thick, or other approved, non-
combustible, corrosion-resistant material.
G2427.7.2 (503.7.2) Cold climate. Uninsulated single-
wall metal pipe shall not be used outdoors for venting
appliances in regions where the 99-percent winter design
temperature is below 32°F (0°C).
G2427.7.3 (503.7.3) Termination. Single-wall metal pipe
shall terminate at least 5 feet (1524 mm) in vertical height
above the highest connected appliance draft hood outlet or
flue collar. Single-wall metal pipe shall extend at least 2
feet (610 mm) above the highest point where it passes
through a roof of a building and at least 2 feet (610 mm)
higher than any portion of a building within a horizontal
distance of 10 feet (3048 mm) (see Figure G2427.5.3). An
approved cap or roof assembly shall be attached to the ter-
minus of a single-wall metal pipe (see also Section
G2427.7.9, Item 3).
G2427.7.4 (503.7.4) Limitations of use. Single-wall
metal pipe shall be used only for runs directly from the
space in which the appliance is located through the roof or
exterior wall to the outdoor atmosphere.
G2427.7.5 (503.7.5) Roof penetrations. A pipe passing
through a roof shall extend without interruption through
the roof flashing, roof jack, or roof thimble. Where a sin-
gle-wall metal pipe passes through a roof constructed of
combustible material, a noncombustible, nonventilating
thimble shall be used at the point of passage. The thimble
shall extend at least 18 inches (457 mm) above and 6
inches (152 mm) below the roof with the annular space
open at the bottom and closed only at the top. The thimble
shall be sized in accordance with Section G2427.7.7.
G2427.7.6 (503.7.6) Installation. Single-wall metal pipe
shall not originate in any unoccupied attic or concealed
space and shall not pass through any attic, inside wall,
concealed space, or floor. The installation of a single-wall
metal pipe through an exterior combustible wall shall
comply with Section G2427.7.7. Single-wall metal pipe
used for venting an incinerator shall be exposed and read-
ily examinable for its full length and shall have suitable
clearances maintained.
G2427.7.7 (503.7.7) Single-wall penetrations of com-
bustible walls. Single-wall metal pipe shall not pass
through a combustible exterior wall unless guarded at the
point of passage by a ventilated metal thimble not smaller
than the following:
1 . For listed appliances equipped with draft hoods and
appliances listed for use with Type B gas vents, the
thimble shall be not less than 4 inches (102 mm)
larger in diameter than the metal pipe. Where there
is a run of not less than 6 feet (1829 mm) of metal
pipe in the open between the draft hood outlet and
the thimble, the thimble shall be permitted to be not
less than 2 inches (51 mm) larger in diameter than
the metal pipe.
2. For unlisted appliances having draft hoods, the
thimble shall be not less than 6 inches (152 mm)
larger in diameter than the metal pipe.
3. For residential and low-heat appliances, the thimble
shall be not less than 12 inches (305 mm) larger in
diameter than the metal pipe.
Exception: In lieu of thimble protection, all combusti-
ble material in the wall shall be removed a sufficient
distance from the metal pipe to provide the specified
clearance from such metal pipe to combustible mate-
rial. Any material used to close up such opening shall
be noncombustible.
G2427.7.8 (503.7.8) Clearances. Minimum clearances
from single-wall metal pipe to combustible material shall
be in accordance with Table G2427.10.5. The clearance
from single-wall metal pipe to combustible material shall
be permitted to be reduced where the combustible material
is protected as specified for vent connectors in Table
G2409.2.
G2427.7.9 (503.7.9) Size of single-wall metal pipe. A
venting system constructed of single-wall metal pipe shall
be sized in accordance with one of the following methods
and the appliance manufacturer's instructions:
1. For a draft-hood-equipped appliance, in accordance
with Section G2428.
2. For a venting system for a single appliance with a
draft hood, the areas of the connector and the pipe
each shall be not less than the area of the appliance
flue collar or draft hood outlet, whichever is
smaller. The vent area shall not be greater than
seven times the draft hood outlet area.
3. Other approved engineering methods.
G2427.7.10 (503.7.10) Pipe geometry. Any shaped sin-
gle-wall metal pipe shall be permitted to be used, provided
that its equivalent effective area is equal to the effective
area of the round pipe for which it is substituted, and pro-
vided that the minimum internal dimension of the pipe is
not less than 2 inches (51 mm).
G2427.7.11 (503.7.11) Termination capacity. The vent
cap or a roof assembly shall have a venting capacity not
less than that of the pipe to which it is attached.
G2427.7.12 (503.7.12) Support of single-wall metal
pipe. All portions of single-wall metal pipe shall be sup-
ported for the design and weight of the material employed.
G2427.7.13 (503.7.13) Marking. Single-wall metal pipe
shall comply with the marking provisions of Section
G2427.6.10.
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G2427.8 (503.8) Venting system termination location. The
location of venting system terminations shall comply with the
following (see Appendix C):
1. A mechanical draft venting system shall terminate at
least 3 feet (914 mm) above any forced-air inlet located
within 10 feet (3048 mm).
Exceptions:
1. This provision shall not apply to the combus-
tion air intake of a direct-vent appliance.
2. This provision shall not apply to the separa-
tion of the integral outdoor air inlet and flue
gas discharge of listed outdoor appliances.
2. A mechanical draft venting system, excluding ^reef-
vent appliances, shall terminate at least 4 feet (1219
mm) below, 4 feet (1219 mm) horizontally from, or 1
foot (305 mm) above any door, operable window, or
gravity air inlet into any building. The bottom of the
vent terminal shall be located at least 12 inches (305
mm) above finished ground level.
3. The vent terminal of a direct-vent appliance with an
input of 10,000 Btu per hour (3 kW) or less shall be
located at least 6 inches (152 mm) from any air opening
into a building, and such an appliance with an input
over 10,000 Btu per hour (3 kW) but not over 50,000
Btu per hour (14.7 kW) shall be installed with a 9-inch
(230 mm) vent termination clearance, and an appliance
with an input over 50,000 Btu/h (14.7 kW) shall have at
least a 12-inch (305 mm) vent termination clearance.
The bottom of the vent terminal and the air intake shall
be located at least 12 inches (305 mm) above grade fin-
ished ground level.
4. Through-the-wall vents for Category II and IV appli-
ances and noncategorized condensing appliances shall
not terminate over public walkways or over an area
where condensate or vapor could create a nuisance or
hazard or could be detrimental to the operation of regu-
lators, relief valves, or other equipment. Where local
experience indicates that condensate is a problem with
Category I and III appliances, this provision shall also
apply. Drains for condensate shall be installed in accor-
dance with the appliance and vent manufacturer's
installation instructions.
G2427.9 (503.9) Condensation drainage. Provisions shall
be made to collect and dispose of condensate from venting
systems serving Category II and IV appliances and noncate-
gorized condensing appliances in accordance with Section
G2427.8, Item 4. Where local experience indicates that con-
densation is a problem, provision shall be made to drain off
and dispose of condensate from venting systems serving Cat-
egory I and III appliances in accordance with Section
G2427.8, Item 4.
G2427.10 (503.10) Vent connectors for Category I appli-
ances. Vent connectors for Category I appliances shall com-
ply with Sections G2427.10.1 through G2427. 10.14.
G2427.10.1 (503.10.1) Where required. A vent connec-
tor shall be used to connect an appliance to a gas vent,
chimney or single-wall metal pipe, except where the gas
vent, chimney or single-wall metal pipe is directly con-
nected to the appliance.
G2427.10.2 (503.10.2) Materials. Vent connectors shall
be constructed in accordance with Sections G2427. 10.2.1
through G2427.10.2.4.
G2427.10.2.1 (503.10.2.1) General. A vent connector
shall be made of noncombustible corrosion-resistant
material capable of withstanding the vent gas tempera-
ture produced by the appliance and of sufficient thick-
ness to withstand physical damage.
G2427.10.2.2 (503.10.2.2) Vent connectors located in
unconditioned areas. Where the vent connector used
for an appliance having a draft hood or a Category I
appliance is located in or passes through attics, crawl
spaces or other unconditioned spaces, that portion of
the vent connector shall be listed Type B, Type L or
listed vent material having equivalent insulation prop-
erties.
Exception: Single-wall metal pipe located within the
exterior walls of the building in areas having a local
99-percent winter design temperature of 5°F (-15°C)
or higher shall be permitted to be used in uncondi-
tioned spaces other than attics and crawl spaces.
G2427.10.2.3 (503.10.2.3) Residential-type appliance
connectors. Where vent connectors for residential-type
appliances are not installed in attics or other uncondi-
tioned spaces, connectors for listed appliances having
draft hoods, appliances having draft hoods and
equipped with listed conversion burners and Category I
appliances shall be one of the following:
1 . Type B or L vent material;
2. Galvanized sheet steel not less than 0.018 inch
(0.46 mm) thick;
3. Aluminum (1100 or 3003 alloy or equivalent)
sheet not less than 0.027 inch (0.69 mm) thick;
4. Stainless steel sheet not less than 0.012 inch (0.31
mm) thick;
5. Smooth interior wall metal pipe having resistance
to heat and corrosion equal to or greater than that
of Item 2, 3 or 4 above; or
6. A listed vent connector.
Vent connectors shall not be covered with insula-
tion.
Exception: Listed insulated vent connectors shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's
installation instructions.
G2427.10.2.4 (503.10.2.4) Low-heat appliance. A
vent connector for a nonresidential, low-heat appliance
shall be a factory-built chimney section or steel pipe
having resistance to heat and corrosion equivalent to
that for the appropriate galvanized pipe as specified in
Table G2427. 10.2.4. Factory-built chimney sections
shall be joined together in accordance with the chimney
manufacturer's instructions.
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TABLE G2427.1 0.2.4 (503.10.2.4)
MINIMUM THICKNESS FOR GALVANIZED STEEL VENT
CONNECTORS FOR LOW-HEAT APPLIANCES
DIAMETER OF CONNECTOR
(inches)
MINIMUM THICKNESS
(inch)
Less than 6
0.019
6 to less than 10
0.023
10 to 12 inclusive
0.029
14 to 16 inclusive
0.034
Over 16
0.056
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
G2427.10.3 (503.10.3) Size of vent connector. Vent con-
nectors shall be sized in accordance with Sections
G2427. 10.3.1 through G2427.3.5.
G2427.10.3.1 (503.10.3.1) Single draft hood and fan-
assisted. A vent connector for an appliance with a sin-
gle draft hood or for a Category I fan-assisted combus-
tion system appliance shall be sized and installed in
accordance with Section G2428 or other approved
engineering methods.
G2427.10.3.2 (503.10.3.2) Multiple draft hood. For a
single appliance having more than one draft hood out-
let or flue collar, the manifold shall be constructed
according to the instructions of the appliance manufac-
turer. Where there are no instructions, the manifold
shall be designed and constructed in accordance with
approved engineering practices. As an alternate
method, the effective area of the manifold shall equal
the combined area of iheflue collars or draft hood out-
lets and the vent connectors shall have a minimum 1-
foot (305 mm) rise.
G2427.10.3.3 (503.10.3.3) Multiple appliances.
Where two or more appliances are connected to a com-
mon vent or chimney, each vent connector shall be
sized in accordance with Section G2428 or other
approved engineering methods.
As an alternative method applicable only when all
of the appliances are draft hood equipped, each vent
connector shall have an effective area not less than the
area of the draft hood outlet of the appliance to which it
is connected.
G2427. 10.3.4 (503.10.3.4) Common connector/mani-
fold. Where two or more appliances are vented through
a common vent connector or vent manifold, the com-
mon vent connector or vent manifold shall be located at
the highest level consistent with available headroom
and the required clearance to combustible materials
and shall be sized in accordance with Section G2428 or
other approved engineering methods.
As an alternate method applicable only where there
are two draft /wod-equipped appliances, the effective
area of the common vent connector or vent manifold
and all junction fittings shall be not less than the area of
the larger vent connector plus 50 percent of the area of
the smaller flue collar outlet.
G2427.1 0.3.5 (503.10.3.5) Size increase. Where the
size of a vent connector is increased to overcome instal-
lation limitations and obtain connector capacity equal
to the appliance input, the size increase shall be made
at the appliance draft hood outlet.
G2427.10.4 (503.10.4) Two or more appliances con-
nected to a single vent or chimney. Where two or more
vent connectors enter a common gas vent, chimney flue, or
single-wall metal pipe, the smaller connector shall enter at
the highest level consistent with the available headroom or
clearance to combustible material. Vent connectors serv-
ing Category I appliances shall not be connected to any
portion of a mechanical draft system operating under pos-
itive static pressure, such as those serving Category III or
IV appliances.
G2427.10.4.1 (503.10.4.1) Two or more openings.
Where two or more openings are provided into one
chimney flue or vent, the openings shall be at different
levels, or the connectors shall be attached to the vertical
portion of the chimney or vent at an angle of 45 degrees
(0.79 rad) or less relative to the vertical.
G2427.10.5 (503.10.5) Clearance. Minimum clearances
from vent connectors to combustible material shall be in
accordance with Table G2427.10.5.
Exception: The clearance between a vent connector
and combustible material shall be permitted to be
reduced where the combustible material is protected as
specified for vent connectors in Table G2409.2.
G2427.10.6 (503.10.6) Joints. Joints between sections of
connector piping and connections to flue collars and draft
hood outlets shall be fastened by one of the following
methods:
1. Sheet metal screws.
2. Vent connectors of listed vent material assembled
and connected to flue collars or draft hood outlets in
accordance with the manufacturers' instructions.
3. Other approved means.
G2427.10.7 (503.10.7) Slope. A vent connector shall be
installed without dips or sags and shall slope upward
toward the vent or chimney at least V 4 inch per foot (21
mm/m).
Exception: Vent connectors attached to a mechanical
draft system installed in accordance with the appliance
and draft system manufacturers' instructions.
G2427.10.8 (503.10.8) Length of vent connector. A vent
connector shall be as short as practical and the appliance
located as close as practical to the chimney or vent. The
maximum horizontal length of a single-wall connector
shall be 75 percent of the height of the chimney or vent
except for engineered systems. The maximum horizontal
length of a Type B double- wall connector shall be 100
percent of the height of the chimney or vent except for
engineered systems.
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G2427.10.9 (503.10.9) Support. A vent connector shall
be supported for the design and weight of the material
employed to maintain clearances and prevent physical
damage and separation of joints.
G2427.10.10 (503.10.10) Chimney connection. Where
entering a flue in a masonry or metal chimney, the vent
connector shall be installed above the extreme bottom to
avoid stoppage. Where a thimble or slip joint is used to
facilitate removal of the connector, the connector shall be
firmly attached to or inserted into the thimble or slip joint
to prevent the connector from falling out. Means shall be
employed to prevent the connector from entering so far as
to restrict the space between its end and the opposite wall
of the chimney flue (see Section G2425.9).
G2427.10.ll (503.10.11) Inspection. The entire length of
a vent connector shall be provided with ready access for
inspection, cleaning, and replacement.
G2427.10.12 (503.10.12) Fireplaces. A vent connector
shall not be connected to a chimney flue serving a fire-
place unless the fireplace flue opening is permanently
sealed.
G2427. 10.13 (503.10.13) Passage through ceilings,
floors or walls. Single-wall metal pipe connectors shall
not pass through any wall, floor or ceiling except as per-
mitted by Section G2427.7.4.
G2427.ll (503.11) Vent connectors for Category II, III
and IV appliances. Vent connectors for Category II, III and
IV appliances shall be as specified for the venting systems in
accordance with Section G2427.4.
G2427.12 (503.12) Draft hoods and draft controls. The
installation of draft hoods and draft controls shall comply
with Sections G2427.12.1 through G2427.12.7.
G2427.12.1 (503.12.1) Appliances requiring draft
hoods. Vented appliances shall be installed with draft
hoods.
Exception: Dual oven- type combination ranges; incin-
erators; direct-vent appliances; fan-assisted combus-
tion system appliances; appliances requiring chimney
draft for operation; single firebox boilers equipped with
conversion burners with inputs greater than 400,000
Btu per hour (1 17 kW); appliances equipped with blast,
power or pressure burners that are not listed for use
with draft hoods; and appliances designed for forced
venting.
G2427.12.2 (503.12.2) Installation. A draft hood sup-
plied with or forming a part of a listed vented appliance
shall be installed without alteration, exactly as furnished
and specified by the appliance manufacturer.
G2427.12.2.1 (503.12.2.1) Draft hood required. If a
draft hood is not supplied by the appliance manufac-
turer where one is required, a draft hood shall be
installed, shall be of a listed or approved type and, in
the absence of other instructions, shall be of the same
size as the appliance flue collar. Where a draft hood is
required with a conversion burner, it shall be of a listed
or approved type.
G2427.12.2.2 (503.12.2.2) Special design draft hood.
Where it is determined that a draft hood of special
design is needed or preferable for a particular installa-
tion, the installation shall be in accordance with the rec-
ommendations of the appliance manufacturer and shall
be approved.
G2427.12.3 (503.12.3) Draft control devices. Where a
draft control device is part of the appliance or is supplied
by the appliance manufacturer, it shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. In the
absence of manufacturer's instructions, the device shall be
attached to the flue collar of the appliance or as near to the
appliance as practical.
G2427.12.4 (503.12.4) Additional devices. Appliances
(except incinerators) requiring a controlled chimney draft
shall be permitted to be equipped with a listed double-act-
ing barometric-afra/r regulator installed and adjusted in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
G2427.12.5 (503.12.5) Location. Draft hoods and barometric
draft regulators shall be installed in the same room or enclosure
as the appliance in such a manner as to prevent any difference in
TABLE G2427.10.5 (503.1 0.5) a
CLEARANCES FOR CONNECTORS
APPLIANCE
MINIMUM DISTANCE FROM COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL
Listed Type B
gas vent material
Listed Type L
vent material
Single-wall
metal pipe
Factory-built
chimney sections
Listed appliances with draft hoods and appliances listed for
use with Type B gas vents
As listed
As listed
6 inches
As listed
Residential boilers and furnaces with listed gas conversion
burner and with draft hood
6 inches
6 inches
9 inches
As listed
Residential appliances listed for use with Type L vents
Not permitted
As listed
9 inches
As listed
Listed gas-fired toilets
Not permitted
As listed
As listed
As listed
Unlisted residential appliances with draft hood
Not permitted
6 inches
9 inches
As listed
Residential and low-heat appliances other than above
Not permitted
9 inches
1 8 inches
As listed
Medium-heat appliances
Not permitted
Not permitted
36 inches
As listed
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. These clearances shall apply unless the manufacturer's installation instructions for a listed appliance or connector specify different clearances, in which case
the listed clearances shall apply.
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pressure between the hood or regulator and the combustion air
supply.
G2427.12.6 (503.12.6) Positioning. Draft hoods and draft
regulators shall be installed in the position for which they
were designed with reference to the horizontal and vertical
planes and shall be located so that the relief opening is not
obstructed by any part of the appliance or adjacent con-
struction. The appliance and its draft hood shall be located
so that the relief opening is accessible for checking vent
operation.
G2427.12.7 (503.12.7) Clearance. A draft hood shall be
located so its relief opening is not less than 6 inches (152
mm) from any surface except that of the appliance it
serves and the venting system to which the draft hood is
connected. Where a greater or lesser clearance is indicated
on the appliance label, the clearance shall be not less than
that specified on the label. Such clearances shall not be
reduced.
G2427.13 (503.13) Manually operated dampers. A manu-
ally operated damper shall not be placed in the vent connec-
tor for any appliance. Fixed baffles shall not be classified as
manually operated dampers.
G2427.14 (503.14) Automatically operated vent dampers.
An automatically operated vent damper shall be of a listed
type.
G2427.15 (503.15) Obstructions. Devices that retard the
flow of vent gases shall not be installed in a vent connector,
chimney, or vent. The following shall not be considered as
obstructions:
1. Draft regulators and safety controls specifically listed
for installation in venting systems and installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions.
2. Approved draft regulators and safety controls that are
designed and installed in accordance with approved
engineering methods.
3. Listed heat reclaimers and automatically operated vent
dampers installed in accordance with the manufac-
turer's installation instructions.
4. Approved economizers, heat reclaimers, and recupera-
tors installed in venting systems of appliances not
required to be equipped with draft hoods, provided that
the appliance manufacturer's instructions cover the
installation of such a device in the venting system and
performance in accordance with Sections G2427.3 and
G2427.3.1 is obtained.
5. Vent dampers serving listed appliances installed in
accordance with Sections G2428.2.1 and G2428.3.1 or
other approved engineering methods.
G2427.16 (503.16) (IFGS) Outside wall penetrations.
Where vents, including those for direct- vent appliances, pen-
etrate outside walls of buildings, the annular spaces around
such penetrations shall be permanently sealed using approved
materials to prevent entry of combustion products into the
building.
SECTION G2428 (504)
SIZING OF CATEGORY I APPLIANCE VENTING
SYSTEMS
G2428.1 (504.1) Definitions. The following definitions
apply to tables in this section.
APPLIANCE CATEGORIZED VENT DIAMETER/
AREA. The minimum vent area/diameter permissible for Cat-
egory I appliances to maintain a nonpositive vent static pres-
sure when tested in accordance with nationally recognized
standards.
FAN-ASSISTED COMBUSTION SYSTEM. An appliance
equipped with an integral mechanical means to either draw or
force products of combustion through the combustion cham-
ber or heat exchanger.
FAN MIN. The minimum input rating of a Category I fan-
assisted appliance attached to a vent or connector.
FAN MAX. The maximum input rating of a Category I fan-
assisted appliance attached to a vent or connector.
NAT MAX. The maximum input rating of a Category I draft-
hood-equipped appliance attached to a vent or connector.
FAN + FAN. The maximum combined appliance input rat-
ing of two or more Category I fan-assisted appliances
attached to the common vent.
FAN + NAT. The maximum combined appliance input rat-
ing of one or more Category I fan-assisted appliances and
one or more Category I draft-hood-equipped appliances
attached to the common vent.
NA. Vent configuration is not permitted due to potential for
condensate formation or pressurization of the venting system,
or not applicable due to physical or geometric restraints.
NAT + NAT. The maximum combined appliance input rat-
ing of two or more Category I draft-hood-equipped appli-
ances attached to the common vent.
G2428.2 (504.2) Application of single appliance vent
Tables G2428.2(l) and G2428.2(2). The application of
Tables G2428.2(l) and G2428.2(2) shall be subject to the
requirements of Sections G2428.2.1 through G2428.2.16.
G2428.2.1 (504.2.1) Vent obstructions. These venting
tables shall not be used where obstructions, as described in
Section G2427.15, are installed in the venting system. The
installation of vents serving listed appliances with vent
dampers shall be in accordance with the appliance manu-
facturer's instructions or in accordance with the following:
1 . The maximum capacity of the vent system shall be
determined using the "NAT Max" column.
2. The minimum capacity shall be determined as if the
appliance were a fan-assisted appliance, using the
"FAN Min" column to determine the minimum
capacity of the vent system. Where the correspond-
ing "FAN Min" is "NA," the vent configuration
shall not be permitted and an alternative venting
configuration shall be utilized.
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G2428.2.2 (504.2.2) Minimum size. Where the vent size
determined from the tables is smaller than the appliance
draft hood outlet or flue collar, the smaller size shall be
permitted to be used provided all of the following are met:
1. The total vent height (H) is at least 10 feet (3048
mm).
2. Vents for appliance draft hood outlets or flue collars
12 inches (305 mm) in diameter or smaller are not
reduced more than one table size.
3. Vents for appliance draft hood outlets or flue collars
larger than 12 inches (305 mm) in diameter are not
reduced more than two table sizes.
4. The maximum capacity listed in the tables for a fan-
assisted appliance is reduced by 10 percent (0.90 by
maximum table capacity).
5. The draft hood outlet is greater than 4 inches (102
mm) in diameter. Do not connect a 3-inch-diameter
(76 mm) vent to a 4-inch-diameter (102 mm) draft
hood outlet. This provision shall not apply to fan-
assisted appliances.
G2428.2.3 (504.2.3) Vent offsets. Single- appliance vent-
ing configurations with zero (0) lateral lengths in Tables
G2428.2(l) and G2428.2(2) shall not have elbows in the
venting system. Single-appliance venting configurations
with lateral lengths include two 90-degree (1.57 rad)
elbows. For each additional elbow up to and including 45
degrees (0.79 rad), the maximum capacity listed in the
venting tables shall be reduced by 5 percent. For each
additional elbow greater than 45 degrees (0.79 rad) up to
and including 90 degrees (1.57 rad), the maximum capac-
ity listed in the venting tables shall be reduced by 10 per-
cent. Where multiple offsets occur in a vent, the total
lateral length of all offsets combined shall not exceed that
specified in Tables G2428.2(l) and G2428.2(2).
G2428.2.4 (504.2.4) Zero lateral. Zero (0) lateral (L)
shall apply only to a straight vertical vent attached to a top
outlet draft hood or flue collar.
G2428.2.5 (504.2.5) High altitude installations. Sea
level input ratings shall be used when determining maxi-
mum capacity for high altitude installation. Actual input,
derated for altitude, shall be used for determining mini-
mum capacity for high altitude installation.
G2428.2.6 (504.2.6) Multiple input rate appliances. For
appliances with more than one input rate, the minimum
vent capacity (FAN Min) determined from the tables shall
be less than the lowest appliance input rating, and the
maximum vent capacity (FAN Max/NAT Max) deter-
mined from the tables shall be greater than the highest
appliance rating input.
G2428.2.7 (504.2.7) Liner system sizing and connec-
tions. Listed corrugated metallic chimney liner systems in
masonry chimneys shall be sized by using Table
G2428.2(l) or G2428.2(2) for Type B vents with the max-
imum capacity reduced by 20 percent (0.80 x maximum
capacity) and the minimum capacity as shown in Table
G2428.2(l) or G2428.2(2). Corrugated metallic liner sys-
tems installed with bends or offsets shall have their maxi-
mum capacity further reduced in accordance with Section
G2428.2.3. The 20-percent reduction for corrugated
metallic chimney liner systems includes an allowance for
one long-radius 90-degree (1.57 rad) turn at the bottom of
the liner.
Connections between chimney liners and listed double-
wall connectors shall be made with listed adapters
designed for such purpose.
G2428.2.8 (504.2.8) Vent area and diameter. Where the
vertical vent has a larger diameter than the vent connector,
the vertical vent diameter shall be used to determine the
minimum vent capacity, and the connector diameter shall
be used to determine the maximum vent capacity. The
flow area of the vertical vent shall not exceed seven times
the flow area of the listed appliance categorized vent area,
flue collar area, or draft hood outlet area unless designed
in accordance with approved engineering methods.
G2428.2.9 (504.2.9) Chimney and vent locations. Tables
G2428.2(l) and G2428.2(2) shall be used only for chim-
neys and vents not exposed to the outdoors below the roof
line. A Type B vent or listed chimney lining system pass-
ing through an unused masonry chimney flue shall not be
considered to be exposed to the outdoors. Where vents
extend outdoors above the roof more than 5 feet (1524
mm) higher than required by Figure G2427.6.3 and where
vents terminate in accordance with Section G2427.6.3,
Item 2, the outdoor portion of the vent shall be enclosed as
required by this section for vents not considered to be
exposed to the outdoors or such venting system shall be
engineered. A Type B vent shall not be considered to be
exposed to the outdoors where it passes through an unven-
tilated enclosure or chase insulated to a value of not less
than R8.
G2428.2.10 (504.2.10) Corrugated vent connector size.
CoiTugated vent connectors shall be not smaller than the
listed appliance categorized vent diameter, flue collar
diameter, or draft hood outlet diameter.
G2428.2.11 (504.2.11) Vent connector size limitation.
Vent connectors shall not be increased in size more than
two sizes greater than the listed appliance categorized vent
diameter, flue collar diameter or draft hood outlet diame-
ter.
G2428.2.12 (504.2.12) Component commingling. In a
single run of vent or vent connector, different diameters
and types of vent and connector components shall be per-
mitted to be used, provided that all such sizes and types
are permitted by the tables.
G2428.2.13 (504.2.13) Draft hood conversion accesso-
ries. Draft hood conversion accessories for use with
masonry chimneys venting listed Category I fan-assisted
appliances shall be listed and installed in accordance with
the manufacturer's installation instructions for such listed
accessories.
G2428.2.14 (504.2.14) Table interpolation. Interpolation
shall be permitted in calculating capacities for vent dimen-
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
593
FUEL GAS
sions that fall between the table entries (see Example 3,
Appendix B).
G2428.2.15 (504.2.15) Extrapolation prohibited.
Extrapolation beyond the table entries shall not be permit-
ted.
G2428.2.16 (504.2.16) Engineering calculations. For
vent heights less than 6 feet ( 1 829 mm) and greater than
shown in the tables, engineering methods shall be used to
calculate vent capacities.
G2428.2.17 (504.2.17) Height entries. Where the actual
height of a vent falls between entries in the height column
of the applicable table in Tables G2428.2(l) and
G2428.2(2), either interpolation shall be used or the lower
appliance input rating shown in the table entries shall be
used for FAN MAX and NAT MAX column values and
the higher appliance input rating shall be used for the FAN
MIN column values.
G2428.3 (504.3) Application of multiple appliance vent
Tables G2428.3(l) through G2428.3(4). The application of
Tables G2428.3(l) through G2428.3(4) shall be subject to the
requirements of Sections G2428.3.1 through G2428.3.23.
G2428.3.1 (504.3.1) Vent obstructions. These venting
tables shall not be used where obstructions, as described in
Section G2427.15, are installed in the venting system. The
installation of vents serving listed appliances with vent
dampers shall be in accordance with the appliance manu-
facturer's instructions or in accordance with the following:
1. The maximum capacity of the vent connector shall
be determined using the NAT Max column.
2. The maximum capacity of the vertical vent or chim-
ney shall be determined using the FAN+NAT col-
umn when the second appliance is a fan-assisted
appliance, or the NAT+NAT column when the sec-
ond appliance is equipped with a draft hood.
3. The minimum capacity shall be determined as if the
appliance were a fan-assisted appliance.
3.1. The minimum capacity of the vent connector
shall be determined using the FAN Min col-
umn.
3.2. The FAN+FAN column shall be used when
the second appliance is a fan-assisted appli-
ance, and the FAN+NAT column shall be
used when the second appliance is equipped
with a draft hood, to determine whether the
vertical vent or chimney configuration is not
permitted (NA). Where the vent configura-
tion is NA, the vent configuration shall not
be permitted and an alternative venting con-
figuration shall be utilized.
G2428.3.2 (504.3.2) Connector length limit. The vent
connector shall be routed to the vent utilizing the shortest
possible route. Except as provided in Section G2428.3.3,
the maximum vent connector horizontal length shall be 1 .5
feet (457 mm) for each inch (18 mm per mm) of connector
diameter as shown in Table G2428.3.2.
TABLE G2428.3.2 (504.3.2)
MAXIMUM VENT CONNECTOR LENGTH
CONNECTOR DIAMETER
CONNECTOR HORIZONTAL
Maximum
(inches)
Length
(feet)
3
4.5
4
6
5
7.5
6
9
7
10.5
8
12
9
13.5
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
G2428.3.3 (504.3.3) Connectors with longer lengths.
Connectors with longer horizontal lengths than those listed
in Section G2428.3.2 are permitted under the following
conditions:
1 . The maximum capacity (FAN Max or NAT Max) of
the vent connector shall be reduced 10 percent for
each additional multiple of the length listed above.
For example, the maximum length listed above for a
4-inch (102 mm) connector is 6 feet (1829 mm).
With a connector length greater than 6 feet (1829
mm), but not exceeding 12 feet (3658 mm), the
maximum capacity must be reduced by 10 percent
(0.90 x maximum vent connector capacity). With a
connector length greater than 12 feet (3658 mm), but
not exceeding 18 feet (5486 mm), the maximum
capacity must be reduced by 20 percent (0.80 x
maximum vent capacity).
2. For a connector serving a fan-assisted appliance, the
minimum capacity (FAN Min) of the connector
shall be determined by referring to the correspond-
ing single appliance table. For Type B double-wall
connectors, Table G2428.2(l) shall be used. For sin-
gle-wall connectors, Table G2428.2(2) shall be
used. The height (H) and lateral (L) shall be mea-
sured according to the procedures for a single appli-
ance vent, as if the other appliances were not
present.
G2428.3.4 (504.3.4) Vent connector manifold. Where the
vent connectors are combined prior to entering the vertical
portion of the common vent to form a common vent mani-
fold, the size of the common vent manifold and the common
vent shall be determined by applying a 10-percent reduction
(0.90 x maximum common vent capacity) to the common
vent capacity part of the common vent tables. The length of
the common vent connector manifold (L M ) shall not exceed
l'/ 2 feet for each inch (18 mm per mm) of common vent
connector manifold diameter (D) (see Appendix B Figure
B-ll).
G2428.3.5 (504.3.5) Common vertical vent offset. Where
the common vertical vent is offset, the maximum capacity
of the common vent shall be reduced in accordance with
Section G2428.3.6. The horizontal length of the common
594
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
vent offset (L g ) shall not exceed l'/ 2 feet for each inch (18
mm per mm) of common vent diameter (D). Where multiple
offsets occur in a common vent, the total horizontal length
of all offsets combined shall not exceed 1 V 2 feet for each
inch (18 mm/mm per) of the common vent diameter (D).
G2428.3.6 (504.3.6) Elbows in vents. For each elbow up
to and including 45 degrees (0.79 rad) in the common
vent, the maximum common vent capacity listed in the
venting tables shall be reduced by 5 percent. For each
elbow greater than 45 degrees (0.79 rad) up to and includ-
ing 90 degrees (1.57 rad), the maximum common vent
capacity listed in the venting tables shall be reduced by 10
percent.
G2428.3.7 (504.3.7) Elbows in connectors. The vent con-
nector capacities listed in the common vent sizing tables
include allowance for two 90-degree (1.57 rad) elbows.
For each additional elbow up to and including 45 degrees
(0.79 rad), the maximum vent connector capacity listed in
the venting tables shall be reduced by 5 percent. For each
elbow greater than 45 degrees (0.79 rad) up to and includ-
ing 90 degrees (1.57 rad), the maximum vent connector
capacity listed in the venting tables shall be reduced by 10
percent.
G2428.3.8 (504.3.8) Common vent minimum size. The
cross-sectional area of the common vent shall be equal to
or greater than the cross- sectional area of the largest con-
nector.
G2428.3.9 (504.3.9) Common vent fittings. At the point
where tee or wye fittings connect to a common vent, the
opening size of the fitting shall be equal to the size of the
common vent. Such fittings shall not be prohibited from
having reduced-size openings at the point of connection of
appliance vent connectors.
G2428.3.9.1 (504.3.9.1) Tee and wye fittings. Tee and
wye fittings connected to a common gas vent shall be
considered as part of the common gas vent and shall be
constructed of materials consistent with that of the
common gas vent.
C2428.3.10 (504.3.10) High altitude installations. Sea-
level input ratings shall be used when determining maxi-
mum capacity for high altitude installation. Actual input,
derated for altitude, shall be used for determining mini-
mum capacity for high altitude installation.
G2428.3.11 (504.3.11) Connector rise measurement.
Connector rise (R) for each appliance connector shall be
measured from the draft hood outlet or flue collar to the
centerline where the vent gas streams come together.
G2428.3.12 (504.3.12) Vent height measurement. For
multiple appliances all located on one floor, available total
height (H) shall be measured from the highest draft hood
outlet or flue collar up to the level of the outlet of the com-
mon vent.
G2428.3.13 (504.3.17) Vertical vent maximum size.
Where two or more appliances are connected to a vertical
vent or chimney, the flow area of the largest section of ver-
tical vent or chimney shall not exceed seven times the
smallest listed appliance categorized vent areas, flue col-
lar area, or draft hood outlet area unless designed in accor-
dance with approved engineering methods.
G2428.3.14 (504.3.18) Multiple input rate appliances.
For appliances with more than one input rate, the mini-
mum vent connector capacity (FAN Min) determined from
the tables shall be less than the lowest appliance input rat-
ing, and the maximum vent connector capacity (FAN Max
or NAT Max) determined from the tables shall be greater
than the highest appliance input rating.
G2428.3.15 (504.3.19) Liner system sizing and connec-
tions. Listed, corrugated metallic chimney liner systems in
masonry chimneys shall be sized by using Table
G2428.3(l) or G2428.3(2) for Type B vents, with the
maximum capacity reduced by 20 percent (0.80 x maxi-
mum capacity) and the minimum capacity as shown in
Table G2428.3(l) or G2428.3(2). Corrugated metallic
liner systems installed with bends or offsets shall have
their maximum capacity further reduced in accordance
with Sections G2428.3.5 and G2428.3.6. The 20-percent
reduction for corrugated metallic chimney liner systems
includes an allowance for one long-radius 90-degree (1.57
rad) turn at the bottom of the liner. Where double-wall
connectors are required, tee and wye fittings used to con-
nect to the common vent chimney liner shall be listed dou-
ble-wall fittings. Connections between chimney liners and
listed double-wall fittings shall be made with listed
adapter fittings designed for such purpose.
G2428.3.16 (504.3.20) Chimney and vent location. Tables
G2428.3(l), G2428.3(2), G2428.3(3) and G2428.3(4) shall
be used only for chimneys and vents not exposed to the out-
doors below the roof line. A Type B vent or listed chimney
lining system passing through an unused masonry chimney
flue shall not be considered to be exposed to the outdoors.
Where vents extend outdoors above the roof more than 5
feet (1524 mm) higher than required by Figure G2427.6.3
and where vents terminate in accordance with Section
G2427.6.3, Item 2, the outdoor portion of the vent shall be
enclosed as required by this section for vents not considered
to be exposed to the outdoors or such venting system shall
be engineered. A Type B vent shall not be considered to be
exposed to the outdoors where it passes through an unventi-
lated enclosure or chase insulated to a value of not less than
R8.
G2428.3.17 (504.3.21) Connector maximum and mini-
mum size. Vent connectors shall not be increased in size
more than two sizes greater than the listed appliance cate-
gorized vent diameter, flue collar diameter, or draft hood
outlet diameter. Vent connectors for draft-hood-equipped
appliances shall not be smaller than the draft hood outlet
diameter. Where a vent connector size(s) determined from
the tables for a fan-assisted appliance(s) is smaller than
the flue collar diameter, the use of the smaller size(s) shall
be permitted provided that the installation complies with
all of the following conditions:
1 . Vent connectors for fan-assisted appliance flue col-
lars 1 2 inches (305 mm) in diameter or smaller are
not reduced by more than one table size [e.g., 12
inches to 10 inches (305 mm to 254 mm) is a one-
size reduction] and those larger than 12 inches (305
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
595
FUEL GAS
mm) in diameter are not reduced more than two
table sizes [e.g., 24 inches to 20 inches (610 mm to
508 mm) is a two-size reduction].
2. The fan-assisted appliance(s) is common vented
with a draft-hood-equipped appliance(s).
3. The vent connector has a smooth interior wall.
G2428.3.18 (504.3.22) Component commingling. All
combinations of pipe sizes, single-wall, and double-wall
metal pipe shall be allowed within any connector run(s) or
within the common vent, provided all of the appropriate
tables permit all of the desired sizes and types of pipe, as if
they were used for the entire length of the subject connec-
tor or vent. Where single-wall and Type B double-wall
metal pipes are used for vent connectors within the same
venting system, the common vent must be sized using
Table G2428.3(2) or G2428.3(4), as appropriate.
G2428.3.19 (504.3.23) Draft hood conversion accesso-
ries. Draft hood conversion accessories for use with
masonry chimneys venting listed Category I fan-assisted
appliances shall be listed and installed in accordance with
the manufacturer's installation instructions for such listed
accessories.
G2428.3.20 (504.3.24) Multiple sizes permitted. Where
a table permits more than one diameter of pipe to be used
for a connector or vent, all the permitted sizes shall be per-
mitted to be used.
G2428.3.21 (504.3.25) Table interpolation. Interpolation
shall be permitted in calculating capacities for vent dimen-
sions that fall between table entries. (See Example 3,
Appendix B.)
G2428.3.22 (504.3.26) Extrapolation prohibited.
Extrapolation beyond the table entries shall not be permit-
ted.
G2428.3.23 (504.3.27) Engineering calculations. For
vent heights less than 6 feet (1829 mm) and greater than
shown in the tables, engineering methods shall be used to
calculate vent capacities.
G2428.3.24 (504.3.28) Height entries. Where the actual
height of a vent falls between entries in the height column
of the applicable table in Tables G2428.3(l) through
G2428.3(4), either interpolation shall be used or the lower
appliance input rating shown in the table shall be used for
FAN MAX and NAT MAX column values and the higher
appliance input rating shall be used for the FAN MIN col-
umn values.
G2427. Mechanical venting systems shall be designed and
installed in accordance with Section G2427.
SECTION G2430 (506)
FACTORY-BUILT CHIMNEYS
G2430.1 (506.1) Listing. Factory-built chimneys for building
heating appliances producing/Iae gases having a temperature
not greater than 1,000°F (538°C), measured at the entrance to
the chimney, shall be listed and labeled in accordance with
UL 103 and shall be installed and terminated in accordance
with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
G2430.2 (506.2) Support. Where factory-built chimneys are
supported by structural members, such as joists and rafters,
such members shall be designed to support the additional
load.
SECTION G2431 (601)
GENERAL
G2431.1 (601.1) Scope. Sections G2432 through G2453 shall
govern the approval, design, installation, construction, main-
tenance, alteration and repair of the appliances and equip-
ment specifically identified herein.
SECTION G2432 (602)
DECORATIVE APPLIANCES FOR
INSTALLATION IN FIREPLACES
G2432.1 (602.1) General. Decorative appliances for installa-
tion in approved solid fuel burning fireplaces shall be tested
in accordance with ANSI Z21.60 and shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Manually lighted natural gas decorative appliances shall be
tested in accordance with ANSI Z21.84.
G2432.2 (602.2) Flame safeguard device. Decorative appli-
ances for installation in approved solid fuel-burning fire-
places, with the exception of those tested in accordance with
ANSI Z21.84, shall utilize a direct ignition device, an ignitor
or a. pilot flame to ignite the fuel at the main burner, and shall
be equipped with a flame safeguard device. The flame safe-
guard device shall automatically shut off the fuel supply to a
main burner or group of burners when the means of ignition
of such burners becomes inoperative.
G2432.3 (602.3) Prohibited installations. Decorative appli-
ances for installation in fireplaces shall not be installed where
prohibited by Section G2406.2.
SECTION G2429 (505)
DIRECT-VENT, INTEGRAL VENT,
MECHANICAL VENT AND
VENTILATION/EXHAUST HOOD VENTING
G2429.1 (505.1) General. The installation of direct- vent and
integral vent appliances shall be in accordance with Section
SECTION G2433 (603)
LOG LIGHTERS
G2433.1 (603.1) General. Log lighters shall be tested in
accordance with CSA 8 and shall be installed in accordance
with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
596
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
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FUEL GAS
TABLE G2428.3(1) [504.3(1)]
TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL VENT
Number of Appliances
Two or more
Appliances Type
Category I
Appliances Vent Connection
Type B double-wall connector
VENT CONNECTOR CAPACITY
VENT
HEIGHT
(H)
(feet)
CONNECTOR
RISE
(R)
(feet)
TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL VENT AND CONNECTOR DIAMETER— (D) inches
34J5678910
APPLIANCE INPUT RATING LIMITS IN THOUSANDS OF BTU/H
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
6
1
22
37
26
35
66
46
46
106
72
58
164
104
77
225
142
92
296
185
109
376
237
128
466
289
2
23
41
31
37
75
55
48
121
86
60
183
124
79
253
168
95
333
220
112
424
282
131
526
345
3
24
44
35
38
81
62
49
132
96
62
199
139
82
275
189
97
363
248
114
463
317
134
575
386
8
1
22
40
27
35
72
48
49
114
76
64
176
109
84
243
148
100
320
194
118
408
248
138
507
303
2
23
44
32
36
80
57
51
128
90
66
195
129
86
269
175
103
356
230
121
454
294
141
564
358
3
24
47
36
37
87
64
53
139
101
67
210
145
88
290
198
105
384
258
123
492
330
143
612
402
10
1
22
43
28
34
78
50
49
123
78
65
189
113
89
257
154
106
341
200
125
436
257
146
542
314
2
23
47
33
36
86
59
51
136
93
67
206
134
91
282
182
109
374
238
128
479
305
149
596
372
3
24
50
37
37
92
67
52
146
104
69
220
150
94
303
205
111
402
268
131
515
342
152
642
417
15
1
21
50
30
33
89
53
47
142
83
64
220
120
88
298
163
110
389
214
134
493
273
162
609
333
2
22
53
35
35
96
63
49
153
99
66
235
142
91
320
193
112
419
253
137
532
323
165
658
394
3
24
55
40
36
102
71
51
163
111
68
248
160
93
339
218
115
445
286
140
565
365
167
700
444
20
1
21
54
31
33
99
56
46
157
87
62
246
125
86
334
171
107
436
224
131
552
285
158
681
347
2
22
57
37
34
105
66
48
167
104
64
259
149
89
354
202
110
463
265
134
587
339
161
725
414
3
23
60
42
35
110
74
50
176
116
66
271
168
91
371
228
113
486
300
137
618
383
164
764
466
30
1
20
62
33
31
113
59
45
181
93
60
288
134
83
391
182
103
512
238
125
649
305
151
802
372
2
21
64
39
33
118
70
47
190
110
62
299
158
85
408
215
105
535
282
129
679
360
155
840
439
3
22
66
44
34
123
79
48
198
124
64
309
178
88
423
242
108
555
317
132
706
405
158
874
494
COMMON VENT CAPACITY
VENT
HEIGHT
(H)
(feet)
TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL COMMON VENT DIAMETER (D)— inches
4
5 6 7 8
9 10
COMBINED APPLIANCE INPUT RATING IN THOUSANDS OF BTU/H
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+ FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
6
92
81
65
140
116
103
204
161
147
309
248
200
404
314
260
547
434
335
672
520
410
8
101
90
73
155
129
114
224
178
163
339
275
223
444
348
290
602
480
378
740
577
465
10
110
97
79
169
141
.124
243
194
178
367
299
242
477
377
315
649
522
405
800
627
495
15
125
112
91
195
164
144
283
228
206
427
352
280
556
444
365
753
61.2
465
924
733
565
20
136
123
102
215
183
160
314
255
229
475
394
310
621
499
405
842
688
523
1,035
826
640
30
152
138
118
244
210
185
361
297
266
547
459
360
720
585
470
979
808
605
1,209
975
740
50
167
153
134
279
244
214
421
353
310
641
547
423
854
706
550
1,164
977
705
1,451
1,188
860
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 19
601
FUEL GAS
TABLE G2428.3(2) [504.3(2)]
TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL VEMT
Number of Appliances
Two or more
Appliances Type
Category 1
Appliances Vent Connection
Type B double-wall connector
VENT CONNECTOR CAPACITY
VENT
HEIGHT
(H)
(feet)
CONNECTOR
RISE
(R)
(feet)
SINGLE-WALL METAL VENT CONNECTOR DIAMETER— (D) inches
3
4 5
6
7
8 9 10
APPLIANCE INPUT RATING LIMITS IN THOUSANDS OF BTU/H
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
6
1
NA
NA
26
NA
NA
46
NA
NA
71
NA
NA
102
207
223
140
262
293
183
325
373
234
447
463
286
2
NA
NA
31
NA
NA
55
NA
NA
85
168
182
123
215
251
167
271
331
219
334
422
281
458
524
344
3
NA
NA
34
NA
NA
62
121
131
95
175
198
138
222
273
188
279
361
247
344
462
316
468
574
385
8
1
NA
NA
27
NA
NA
48
NA
NA
75
NA
NA
106
226
240
145
285
316
191
352
403
244
481
502
299
2
NA
NA
32
NA
NA
57
125
126
89
184
193
127
234
266
173
293
353
228
360
450
292
492
560
355
3
NA
NA
35
NA
NA
64
130
138
100
191
208
144
241
287
197
302
381
256
370
489
328
501
609
400
10
1
NA
NA
28
NA
NA
50
119
121
77
182
186
110
240
253
150
302
335
196
372
429
252
506
534
308
2
NA
NA
33
84
85
59
124
134
91
189
203
132
248
278
183
311
369
235
381
473
302
517
589
368
3
NA
NA
36
89
91
67
129
144
102
197
217
148
257
299
203
320
398
265
391
511
339
528
637
413
15
1
NA
NA
29
79
87
52
116
138
81
177
214
116
238
291
158
312
380
208
397
482
266
556
596
324
2
NA
NA
34
83
94
62
121
150
97
185
230
138
246
314
189
321
411
248
407
522
317
568
646
387
3
NA
NA
39
87
100
70
127
160
109
193
243
157
255
333
215
331
438
281
418
557
360
579
690
437
20
1
49
56
30
78
97
54
115
152
84
175
238
120
233
325
165
306
425
217
390
538
2/6
546
664
336
2
52
59
36
82
103
64
120
163
101
182
252
144
243
346
197
317
453
259
400
574
331
558
709
403
3
55
62
40
87
107
72
125
172
113
190
264
164
252
363
223
326
476
294
412
607
375
570
750
457
30
1
47
60
31
77
110
57
112
175
89
169
278
129
226
380
175
296
497
230
378
630
294
528
779
358
2
51
62
37
81
115
67
117
185
106
177
290
152
236
397
208
307
521
274
389
662
349
541
819
425
3
54
64
42
85
119
76
122
193
120
185
300
172
244
412
235
316
542
309
400
690
394
555
855
482
COMMON VENT CAPACITY
VENT
HEIGHT
(H)
(feet)
TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL COMMON VENT DIAMETER— (D) inches
4 | 5 6 | 7
8
9 10
COMBINED APPLIANCE INPUT RATING IN THOUSANDS OF BTU/H
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+ FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+ FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
6
NA
78
64
NA
113
99
200
158
144
304
244
196
398
310
257
541
429
332
665
515
407
8
NA
87
71
NA
126
111
218
173
159
331
269
218
436
342
285
592
473
373
730
569
460
10
NA
94
76
163
137
120
237
189
174
357
292
236
467
369
309
638
512
398
787
617
487
15
121
108
88
189
159
140
275
221
200
416
343
274
544
434
357
738
599
456
905
718
553
20
131
118
98
208
177
156
305
247
223
463
383
302
606
487
395
824
673
512
1,013
808
626
30
145
132
113
236
202
180
350
286
257
533
446
349
703
570
459
958
790
593
1,183
952
723
50
159
145
128
268
233
208
406
337
296
622
529
410
833
686
535
1,139
954
689
1,418
1,157
838
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm. 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W.
602
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
TABLE G2428.3(3) [504.3(3)]
MASONRY CHIMNEY
Number of Appliances
Two or more
Appliances Type
Category 1
Appliances Vent Connection
Type B double-wall connector
VENT CONNECTOR CAPACITY
VENT
HEIGHT
(H)
(feet)
CONNECTOR
RISE
(R)
(feet)
TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL VENT CONNECTOR DIAMETER— (D) inches
3
4 5 | 6 7 8 9 10
APPLIANCE INPUT RATING LIMITS IN THOUSANDS OF BTU/H
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAI
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
6
1
24
33
21
39
62
40
52
106
67
65
194
101
87
274
141
104
3/0
201
124
4/9
233
145
399
319
2
26
43
28
41
79
52
53
133
85
67
230
124
89
324
173
107
436
232
127
362
300
148
694
3/8
3
27
49
34
42
92
61
55
155
97
69
262
143
91
369
203
109
491
2/0
129
633
349
151
/93
439
8
1
24
39
22
39
72
41
55
117
69
71
213
105
94
304
148
113
414
210
134
539
26/
156
682
333
2
^26_
47
29
40
87
53
57
140
86
73
246
127
97
350
179
116
473
240
137
613
311
160
lib
394
3
27
52
34
42
97
62
59
159
98
75
269
145
99
383
206
119
517
276
139
6/2
338
163
848
432
10
1
24
42
22
38
80
42
55
130
71
74
232
108
101
324
153
120
444
216
142
382
111
165
739
348
2
26
50
29
40
93
54
57
153
87
76
261
129
103
366
184
123
498
247
145
632
321
168
823
40/
3
27
55
35
41
105
63
58
170
100
78
284
148
106
397
209
126
540
281
147
/03
366
171
893
4b3
15
1
24
48
23
38
93
44
54
154
74
72
277
114
100
384
164
125
511
229
153
638
297
184
824
3/3
2
25
55
31
39
105
55
56
174
89
74
299
134
103
419
192
128
558
260
156
/18
33y
187
900
432
3
26
59
35
41
115
64
57
189
102
76
319
153
105
448
215
131
39/
292
159
/60
382
190
960
480
20
1
24
52
24
37
102
46
53
172
77
71
313
119
98
437
173
123
584
239
150
/32
3 12
180
943
397
2
25
58
31
39
114
56
55
190
91
73
335
138
101
467
199
126
623
270
153
803
334
184
1,011
432
3
26
63
35
40
123
65
57
204
104
75
353
157
104
493
222
129
661
301
156
831
39b
187
1,067
303
COMMON VENT CAPACITY
VENT
HEIGHT
(H)
(feet)
MINIMUM INTERNAL AREA OF MASONRY CHIMNEY FLUE (square inches)
12 19 | 28 | 38 50 | 63 78 | 113
COMBINED APPLIANCE INPUT RATING IN THOUSANDS OF BTU/H
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
6
NA
74
25
NA
119
46
NA
178
71
NA
257
103
NA
351
143
NA
458
188
NA
582
246
1,041
833
NA
8
NA
80
28
NA
130
53
NA
193
82
NA
279
119
NA
384
163
NA
501
218
724
636
278
1,144
93/
408
10
NA
84
31
NA
138
56
NA
207
90
NA
299
131
NA
409
177
606
338
23b
lib
686
302
1,22b
1,010
454
15
NA
NA
36
NA
152
67
NA
233
106
NA
334
152
523
467
212
682
611
283
8/4
781
363
1,3/4
1,136
346
20
NA
NA
41
NA
NA
75
NA
250
122
NA
368
172
565
508
243
742
668
323
933
838
419
1,513
1,28b
b48
30
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
270
137
NA
404
198
615
564
278
816
747
381
1,062
969
496
l,/02
1,4/3
/49
50
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
620
328
879
831
461
1,163
1,089
60b
1,903
l,b92
922
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm. I square inch = 645. 1 6 mm 2 , 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
603
FUEL GAS
TABLE G2428.3(4) [504.3(4)]
MASONRY CHIMNEY
Number of Appliances
Two or more
Appliances Type
Category 1
Appliances Vent Connection
Single-wall connector
VENT CONNECTOR CAPACITY
VENT
HEIGHT
(H)
(feet)
CONNECTOR
RISE
(R)
(feet)
SINGLE-WALL METAL VENT CONNECTOR DIAMETER (D)— inches
3 | 4 5 | 6 7 | 8 9 |
10
APPLIANCE INPUT RATING LIMITS IN THOUSANDS OF BTU/H
FAN
NAI
FAN
NAI
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
FAN
NAT
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
Min
Max
Max
6
1
NA
NA
21
NA
NA
39
NA
NA
66
179
191
100
231
271
140
292
366
200
362
474
252
499
594
316
2
NA
NA
28
NA
NA
32
NA
NA
84
186
227
123
239
321
172
301
432
231
373
557
299
509
696
376
3
NA
NA
34
NA
NA
61
134
153
97
193
258
142
247
365
202
309
491
269
381
634
348
519
793
437
8
1
NA
IN A
21
NA
NA
40
NA
NA
68
195
208
103
250
298
146
313
407
207
387
530
263
529
672
331
2
NA
NA
28
NA
NA
32
137
139
85
202
240
125
258
343
177
323
465
238
397
607
309
540
766
391
3
NA
NA
34
NA
NA
62
143
136
98
210
264
143
266
3/6
205
332
509
274
407
663
356
551
838
450
10
1
NA
NA
22
NA
NA
41
130
131
70
202
225
106
267
316
151
333
434
213
410
571
273
558
727
343
2
NA
NA
29
NA
NA
33
136
1.30
86
210
255
128
276
358
181
343
489
244
420
640
317
569
813
403
3
NA
IN A
34
97
102
62
143
166
99
217
277
147
284
389
207
352
530
279
430
694
363
580
880
459
15
1
NA
1NA
23
NA
IN A
43
129
131
73
199
271
112
268
376
161
349
502
225
445
646
291
623
808
366
2
NA
NA
30
92
1U3
34
135
170
88
207
295
132
277
411
189
359
548
256
456
706
334
634
884
424
3
NA
NA
34
96
112
63
141
183
101
215
315
151
286
439
213
368
586
289
466
755
378
646
945
479
20
1
NA
NA
23
87
99
45
128
167
76
197
303
11.7
265
425
169
345
569
235
439
734
306
614
921
347
2
NA
1NA
30
91
111
33
134
183
90
205
325
136
274
455
195
355
610
266
450
787
348
627
986
443
3
NA
NA
33
96
119
64
140
199
103
213
343
154
282
481
219
365
644
298
461
831
391
639
1,042
496
COMMON VENT CAPACITY
VENT
HEIGHT
(H)
(feet)
MINIMUM INTERNAL AREA OF MASONRY CHIMNEY FLUE (square inches)
12
19 28 38 50 63 78 | 113
COMBINED APPLIANCE INPUT RATING IN THOUSANDS OF BTU/H
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAI
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAI
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
♦NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
FAN
+FAN
FAN
+NAT
NAT
+NAT
6
NA
NA
23
NA
118
45
NA
176
71
NA
255
102
NA
348
142
NA
455
187
NA
579
245
NA
846
NA
8
NA
NA
28
NA
128
32
NA
190
81
NA
276
118
NA
380
162
NA
497
217
NA
633
277
1,136
928
405
10
NA
NA
31
NA
13b
36
NA
203
89
NA
295
129
NA
405
175
NA
532
234
171
680
300
1,216
1,000
450
15
NA
NA
36
NA
NA
66
NA
230
105
NA
335
150
NA
400
210
677
602
280
866
772
360
1,359
1,139
540
20
NA
NA
NA
NA
IN A
74
NA
247
120
NA
362
170
NA
503
240
765
661
321
947
849
415
1,495
1,264
640
30
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
135
NA
398
195
NA
558
275
808
739
377
1,052
957
490
1,682
1,447
740
50
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
612
325
NA
821
456
1,152
1.076
600
1,879
1,672
910
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 square inch = 645.16 mm 2 , 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W.
604
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
FUEL GAS
SECTION G2434 (604)
VENTED GAS FIREPLACES
(DECORATIVE APPLIANCES)
G2434.1 (604.1) General. Vented gas fireplaces shall be
tested in accordance with ANSI Z21.50, shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions
and shall be designed and equipped as specified in Section
G2432.2.
G2434.2 (604.2) Access. Panels, grilles, and access doors
that are required to be removed for normal servicing opera-
tions shall not be attached to the building.
SECTION G2435 (605)
VENTED GAS FIREPLACE HEATERS
G2435.1 (605.1) General. Vented gas fireplace heaters shall
be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installa-
tion instructions, shall be tested in accordance with ANSI
Z21.88 and shall be designed and equipped as specified in
Section G2432.2.
SECTION G2436 (608)
VENTED WALL FURNACES
G2436.1 (608.1) General. Vented wall furnaces shall be
tested in accordance with ANSI Z21.86/CSA 2.32 and shall
be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installa-
tion instructions.
G2436.2 (608.2) Venting. Vented wall furnaces shall be
vented in accordance with Section G2427.
G2436.3 (608.3) Location. Vented wall furnaces shall be
located so as not to cause a fire hazard to walls, floors, com-
bustible furnishings or doors. Vented wall furnaces installed
between bathrooms and adjoining rooms shall not circulate
air from bathrooms to other parts of the building.
G2436.4 (608.4) Door swing. Vented wall furnaces shall be
located so that a door cannot swing within 12 inches (305
mm) of an air inlet or air outlet of such furnace measured at
right angles to the opening. Doorstops or door closers shall
not be installed to obtain this clearance.
G2436.5 (608.5) Ducts prohibited. Ducts shall not be
attached to wall furnaces. Casing extension boots shall not be
installed unless listed as part of the appliance.
G2436.6 (608.6) Access. Vented wall furnaces shall be pro-
vided with access for cleaning of heating surfaces, removal of
burners, replacement of sections, motors, controls, filters and
other working parts, and for adjustments and lubrication of
parts requiring such attention. Panels, grilles and access doors
that are required to be removed for normal servicing opera-
tions shall not be attached to the building construction.
SECTION G2437 (609)
FLOOR FURNACES
G2437.1 (609.1) General. Floor furnaces shall be tested in
accordance with ANSI Z21.86/CSA 2,32 and shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation
instructions.
G2437.2 (609.2) Placement. The following provisions apply
to floor furnaces:
1 . Floors. Floor furnaces shall not be installed in the floor
of any doorway, stairway landing, aisle or passageway
of any enclosure, public or private, or in an exitway
from any such room or space.
2. Walls and corners. The register of a floor furnace with
a horizontal warm air outlet shall not be placed closer
than 6 inches (152 mm) to the nearest wall. A distance
of at least 18 inches (457 mm) from two adjoining sides
of the floor furnace register to walls shall be provided
to eliminate the necessity of occupants walking over
the warm air discharge. The remaining sides shall be
permitted to be placed not closer than 6 inches (152
mm) to a wall. Wall-register models shall not be placed
closer than 6 inches (152 mm) to a corner.
3. Draperies. The furnace shall be placed so that a door,
drapery, or similar object cannot be nearer than 12
inches (305 mm) to any portion of the register of the
furnace.
4. Floor construction. Floor furnaces shall not be installed
in concrete floor construction built on grade.
5. Thermostat. The controlling thermostat for a. floor fur-
nace shall be located within the same room or space as
the floor furnace or shall be located in an adjacent room
or space that is permanently open to the room or space
containing the floor furnace.
G2437.3 (609.3) Bracing. The floor around the furnace shall
be braced and headed with a support framework designed in
accordance with Chapter 5.
G2437.4 (609.4) Clearance. The lowest portion of the floor
furnace shall have not less than a 6-inch (152 mm) clearance
from the grade level; except where the lower 6-inch (152
mm) portion of the floor furnace is sealed by the manufac-
turer to prevent entrance of water, the minimum clearance
shall be reduced to not less than 2 inches (51 mm). Where
these clearances cannot be provided, the ground below and to
the sides shall be excavated to form a pit under the. furnace so
that the required clearance is provided beneath the lowest
portion of the furnace. A 12-inch (305 mm) minimum clear-
ance shall be provided on all sides except the control side,
which shall have an 18-inch (457 mm) minimum clearance.
G2437.5 (609.5) First floor installation. Where the base-
ment story level below the floor in which a floor furnace is
installed is utilized as habitable space, such floor furnaces
shall be enclosed as specified in Section G2437.6 and shall
project into a nonhabitable space.
G2437.6 (609.6) Upper floor installations. Floor furnaces
installed in upper stories of buildings shall project below into
nonhabitable space and shall be separated from the nonhabit-
able space by an enclosure constructed of noncombustible
materials. The floor furnace shall be provided with access,
clearance to all sides and bottom of not less than 6 inches
(152 mm) and combustion cur in accordance with Section
G2407.
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SECTION G2438 (613)
CLOTHES DRYERS
G2438.1 (613.1) General. Clothes dryers shall be tested in
accordance with ANSI Z21.5.1 and shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
SECTION G2439 (614)
CLOTHES DRYER EXHAUST
G2439.1 (614.1) Installation. Clothes dryers shall be
exhausted in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Dryer exhaust systems shall be independent of all other sys-
tems and shall convey the moisture and any products of com-
bustion to the outside of the building.
G2439.2 (614.2) Duct penetrations. Ducts that exhaust
clothes dryers shall not penetrate or be located within any
fireblocking, draftstopping or any wall, floor/ceiling or other
assembly required by this code to be fire-resistance rated,
unless such duct is constructed of galvanized steel or alumi-
num of the thickness specified in the mechanical provisions
of this code and the fire-resistance rating is maintained in
accordance with this code. Fire dampers shall not be installed
in clothes dryer exhaust duct systems.
G2439.3 (614.4) Exhaust installation. Dryer exhaust ducts
for clothes dryers shall terminate on the outside of the build-
ing and shall be equipped with a backdraft damper. Screens
shall not be installed at the duct termination. Ducts shall not
be connected or installed with sheet metal screws or other
fasteners that will obstruct the flow. Clothes dryer exhaust
ducts shall not be connected to a vent connector, vent or
chimney. Clothes dryer exhaust ducts shall not extend into or
through ducts or plenums.
G2439.4 (614.5) Makeup air. Installations exhausting more
than 200 cfm (0.09 m 3 /s) shall be provided with makeup air.
Where a closet is designed for the installation of a clothes
dryer, an opening having an area of not less than 100 square
inches (0.0645 m 2 ) for makeup air shall be provided in the
closet enclosure, or makeup air shall be provided by other
approved means.
G2439.5 (614.6) Domestic clothes dryer exhaust ducts.
Exhaust ducts for domestic clothes dryers shall conform to
the requirements of Sections G2439.5.1 through G2439.5.7.
G2439.5.1 (614.6.1) Material and size. Exhaust ducts
shall have a smooth interior finish and shall be constructed
of metal a minimum 0.016-inch (0.4 mm) thick. The
exhaust duct size shall be 4 inches (102 mm) nominal in
diameter.
G2439.5.2 (614.6.2) Duct installation. Exhaust ducts
shall be supported at 4 foot (1219 mm) intervals and
secured in place. The insert end of the duct shall extend
into the adjoining duct or fitting in the direction of airflow.
Ducts shall not be joined with screws or similar fasteners
that protrude into the inside of the duct.
G2439.5.3 (614.6.3) Protection required. Protective
shield plates shall be placed where nails or screws from
finish or other work are likely to penetrate the clothes
diyer exhaust duct. Shield plates shall be placed on the
finished face of all framing members where there is less
than l'/ 4 inches (32 mm) between the duct and the finished
face of the framing member. Protective shield plates shall
be constructed of steel, shall have a minimum thickness of
0.062 inch (1.6 mm) and shall extend a minimum of 2
inches (51 mm) above sole plates and below top plates.
G2439.5.4 (614.6.4) Transition ducts. Transition ducts
used to connect the dryer to the exhaust duct system shall
be a single length that is listed and labeled in accordance
with UL 2158A. Transition ducts shall be a maximum of 8
feet (2438 mm) in length and shall not be concealed within
construction.
G2439.5.5 (614.6.5) Duct length. The maximum allow-
able exhaust duct length shall be determined by one of the
methods specified in Section G2439.5.5.1 orG2439.5.5.2.
G2439.5.5.1 (614.6.5.1) Specified length. The maxi-
mum length of the exhaust duct shall be 35 feet (10 668
mm) from the connection to the transition duct from the
dryer to the outlet terminal. Where fittings are used, the
maximum length of the exhaust duct shall be reduced in
accordance with Table G2439.5.5.1.
TABLE G2439.5.5.1 (TABLE 614.6.5.1)
DRYER EXHAUST DUCT FITTING EQUIVALENT LENGTH
DRYER EXHAUST DUCT FITTING TYPE
EQUIVALENT LENGTH
4 inch radius mitered 45 degree elbow
2 feet 6 inches
4 inch radius mitered 90 degree elbow
5 feet
6 inch radius smooth 45 degree elbow
1 foot
6 inch radius smooth 90 degree elbow
1 foot 9 inches
8 inch radius smooth 45 degree elbow
1 foot
8 inch radius smooth 90 degree elbow
1 foot 7 inches
10 inch radius smooth 45 degree elbow
9 inches
10 inch radius smooth 90 degree elbow
1 foot 6 inches
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 ram, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 degree = 0.0175 rad.
G2439.5.5.2 (614.6.5.2) Manufacturer's instructions.
The maximum length of the exhaust duct shall be deter-
mined by the dryer manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions. The code official shall be provided with a copy of
the installation instructions for the make and model of
the dryer. Where the exhaust duct is to be concealed,
the installation instructions shall be provided to the
code official prior to the concealment inspection. In the
absence of fitting equivalent length calculations from
the clothes dryer manufacturer, Table G2439.5.5.1
shall be used.
G2439.5.6 (614.6.5) Length identification. Where the
exhaust duct is concealed within the building construction,
the equivalent length of the exhaust duct shall be identified
on a permanent label or tag. The label or tag shall be
located within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the exhaust duct con-
nection.
G2439.5.7 (614.6.6) Exhaust duct required. Where
space for a clothes dryer is provided, an exhaust duct sys-
tem shall be installed. Where the clothes dryer is not
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installed at the time of occupancy, the exhaust duct shall
be capped at location of the future dryer.
Exception: Where a listed condensing clothes dryer is
installed prior to occupancy of the structure.
SECTION G2440 (615)
SAUNA HEATERS
G2440.1 (615.1) General. Sauna heaters shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
G2440.2 (615.2) Location and protection. Sauna heaters
shall be located so as to minimize the possibility of accidental
contact by a person in the room.
G2440.2.1 (615.2.1) Guards. Sauna heaters shall be pro-
tected from accidental contact by an approved guard or
barrier of material having a low coefficient of thermal con-
ductivity. The guard shall not substantially affect the
transfer of heat from the heater to the room.
G2440.3 (615.3) Access. Panels, grilles and access doors that
are required to be removed for normal servicing operations,
shall not be attached to the building.
G2440.4 (615.4) Combustion and dilution air intakes.
Sauna heaters of other than the direct-vent type shall be
installed with the draft hood and combustion air intake
located outside the sauna room. Where the combustion air
inlet and the draft hood are in a dressing room adjacent to the
sauna room, there shall be provisions to prevent physically
blocking the combustion air inlet and the draft hood inlet, and
to prevent physical contact with the draft hood and vent
assembly, or warning notices shall be posted to avoid such
contact. Any warning notice shall be easily readable, shall
contrast with its background, and the wording shall be in let-
ters not less than 0.25 inch (6.4 mm) high.
G2440.5 (615.5) Combustion and ventilation air. Combus-
tion air shall not be taken from inside the sauna room. Com-
bustion and ventilation air for a sauna heater not of the direct-
vent type shall be provided to the area in which the combus-
tion air inlet and draft hood are located in accordance with
Section G2407.
G2440.6 (615.6) Heat and time controls. Sauna heaters
shall be equipped with a thermostat which will limit room
temperature to 194°F (90°C). If the thermostat is not an inte-
gral part of the sauna heater, the heat-sensing element shall be
located within 6 inches (152 mm) of the ceiling. If the heat-
sensing element is a capillary tube and bulb, the assembly
shall be attached to the wall or other support, and shall be
protected against physical damage.
G2440.6.1 (615.6.1) Timers. A timer, if provided to con-
trol main burner operation, shall have a maximum operat-
ing time of 1 hour. The control for the timer shall be
located outside the sauna room.
G2440.7 (615.7) Sauna room. A ventilation opening into the
sauna room shall be provided. The opening shall be not less
than 4 inches by 8 inches (102 mm by 203 mm) located near
the top of the door into the sauna room.
SECTION G2441 (617)
POOL AND SPA HEATERS
G2441.1 (617.1) General. Pool and spa heaters shall be
tested in accordance with ANSI Z21.56 and shall be installed
in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions.
SECTION G2442 (618)
FORCED-AIR WARM-AIR FURNACES
G2442.1 (618.1) General. Forced-air warm-air furnaces
shall be tested in accordance with ANSI Z21.47 or UL 795
and shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's
installation instructions.
G2442.2 (618.2) Forced-air furnaces. The minimum unob-
structed total area of the outside and return air ducts or open-
ings to a forced-air warm-ah furnace shall be not less than 2
square inches for each 1 ,000 Btu/h (4402 mm 2 /W) output rat-
ing capacity of the, furnace and not less than that specified in
the furnace manufacturer's installation instructions. The min-
imum unobstructed total area of supply ducts from a forced-
air warm-air furnace shall be not less than 2 square inches for
each 1,000 Btu/h (4402 mm 2 /W) output rating capacity of the
furnace and not less than that specified in the furnace manu-
facturer's installation instructions.
Exception: The total area of the supply air ducts and out-
side and return air ducts shall not be required to be larger
than the minimum size required by the furnace manufac-
turer's installation instructions.
G2442.3 (618.3) Dampers. Volume dampers shall not be
placed in the air inlet to a furnace in a manner that will reduce
the required air to the furnace.
G2442.4 (618.4) Prohibited sources. Outdoor or return air
for forced-air heating and cooling systems shall not be taken
from the following locations:
1. Closer than 10 feet (3048 mm) from an appliance vent
outlet, a vent opening from a plumbing drainage system
or the discharge outlet of an exhaust fan, unless the out-
let is 3 feet (914 mm) above the outside air inlet.
2. Where there is the presence of objectionable odors,
fumes or flammable vapors; or where located less than
10 feet (3048 mm) above the surface of any abutting
public way or driveway; or where located at grade level
by a sidewalk, street, alley or driveway.
3. A hazardous or insanitary location or a refrigeration
machinery room as defined in the International
Mechanical Code.
4. A room or space, the volume of which is less than 25
percent of the entire volume served by such system.
Where connected by a permanent opening having an
area sized in accordance with Section G2442.2, adjoin-
ing rooms or spaces shall be considered as a single
room or space for the purpose of determining the vol-
ume of such rooms or spaces.
Exception: The minimum volume requirement shall
not apply where the amount of return air taken from
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a room or space is less than or equal to the amount
of supply air delivered to such room or space.
5. A room or space containing an appliance where such a
room or space serves as the sole source of return air.
Exception: This shall not apply where:
1. The appliance is a direct-vent appliance or an
appliance not requiring a vent in accordance
with Section G2425.8.
2. The room or space complies with the follow-
ing requirements:
2.1. The return air shall be taken from a
room or space having a volume
exceeding 1 cubic foot for each 10
Btu/h (9.6L/W) of combined input
rating of all fuel-burning appliances
therein.
2.2. The volume of supply air discharged
back into the same space shall be
approximately equal to the volume of
return air taken from the space.
2.3. Return-air inlets shall not be located
within 10 feet (3048 mm) of a draft hood
in the same room or space or the
combustion chamber of any atmospheric
burner appliance in the same room or
space.
3. Rooms or spaces containing solid fuel-burning
appliances, provided that return-air inlets are
located not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from
the firebox of such appliances.
6. A closet, bathroom, toilet room, kitchen, garage, boiler
room, furnace room or unconditioned attic.
Exceptions:
1. Where return air intakes are located not less
than 10 feet (3048 mm) from cooking appli-
ances and serve only the kitchen area, taking
return air from a kitchen area shall not be pro-
hibited.
2. Dedicated forced air systems serving only a
garage shall not be prohibited from obtaining
return air from the garage.
7. A crawl space by means of direct connection to the
return side of a forced-air system. Transfer openings in
the crawl space enclosure shall not be prohibited.
G2442.5 (618.5) Screen. Required outdoor air inlets shall be
covered with a screen having 7 4 -inch (6.4 mm) openings.
Required outdoor air inlets serving a nonresidential portion of
a building shall be covered with screen having openings
larger than V 4 inch (6.4 mm) and not larger than 1 inch (25
mm).
G2442.6 (618.6) Return-air limitation. Return air from one
dwelling unit shall not be discharged into another dwelling
unit.
G2442.7 (618.7) Furnace plenums and air ducts. Where a
furnace is installed so that supply ducts carry air circulated by
the furnace to areas outside of the space containing the fur-
nace, the return air shall also be handled by a duct(s) sealed to
the furnace casing and terminating outside of the space con-
taining the furnace.
SECTION G2443 (619)
CONVERSION BURNERS
G2443.1 (619.1) Conversion burners. The installation of
conversion burners shall conform to ANSI Z21 .8.
SECTION G2444 (620)
UNIT HEATERS
G2444.1 (620.1) General. Unit heaters shall be tested in
accordance with ANSI Z83.8 and shall be installed in accor-
dance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
G2444.2 (620.2) Support. Suspended-type unit heaters shall
be supported by elements that are designed and constructed to
accommodate the weight and dynamic loads. Hangers and
brackets shall be of noncombustible material.
G2444.3 (620.3) Ductwork. Ducts shall not be connected to
a unit heater unless the heater is listed for such installation.
G2444.4 (620.4) Clearance. Suspended-type unit heaters
shall be installed with clearances to combustible materials of
not less than 18 inches (457 mm) at the sides, 12 inches (305
mm) at the bottom and 6 inches (152 mm) above the top
where the unit heater has an internal draft hood or 1 inch (25
mm) above the top of the sloping side of the vertical draft
hood.
Floor-mounted-type unit heaters shall be installed with
clearances to combustible materials at the back and one side
only of not less than 6 inches (152 mm). Where the flue gases
are vented horizontally, the 6-inch (152 mm) clearance shall
be measured from the draft hood or vent instead of the rear
wall of the unit heater. Floor-mounted-type unit heaters shall
not be installed on combustible floors unless listed for such
installation.
Clearance for servicing all unit heaters shall be in accor-
dance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Exception: Unit heaters listed for reduced clearance shall
be permitted to be installed with such clearances in accor-
dance with their listing and the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
SECTION G2445 (621)
UNVENTED ROOM HEATERS
G2445.1 (621.1) General. Unvented room heaters shall be
tested in accordance with ANSI Z 21.11.2 and shall be
installed in accordance with the conditions of the listing and
the manufacturer's installation instructions.
G2445.2 (621.2) Prohibited use. One or more unvented
room heaters shall not be used as the sole source of comfort
heating in a dwelling unit.
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G2445.3 (621.3) Input rating. Unvented room heaters shall
not have an input rating in excess of 40,000 Btu/h (1 1 .7 kW).
G2445.4 (621.4) Prohibited locations. The location of
unvented room heaters shall comply with Section G2406.2.
G2445.5 (621.5) Room or space volume. The aggregate
input rating of all unvented appliances installed in a room or
space shall not exceed 20 Btu/h per cubic foot (0.21 kW/m 3 )
of volume of such room or space. Where the room or space in
which the appliance is installed is directly connected to
another room or space by a doorway, archway or other open-
ing of comparable size that cannot be closed, the volume of
such adjacent room or space shall be permitted to be included
in the calculations.
G2445.6 (621.6) Oxygen-depletion safety system. Unvented
room heaters shall be equipped with an oxygen-depletion-
sensitive safety shutoff system. The system shall shut off the
gas supply to the main and pilot burners when the oxygen in
the surrounding atmosphere is depleted to the percent con-
centration specified by the manufacturer, but not lower than
18 percent. The system shall not incorporate field adjustment
means capable of changing the set point at which the system
acts to shut off the gas supply to the room heater.
G2445.7 (621.7) Unvented decorative room heaters. An
unvented decorative room heater shall not be installed in a
factory-built fireplace unless the fireplace system has been
specifically tested, listed and labeled for such use in accor-
dance with UL 127.
G2445.7.1 (621.7.1) Ventless firebox enclosures. Vent-
less firebox enclosures used with unvented decorative
room heaters shall be listed as complying with ANSI
Z21.91.
SECTION G2446 (622)
VENTED ROOM HEATERS
G2446.1 (622.1) General. Vented room heaters shall be
tested in accordance with ANSI Z21.86/CSA 2.32, shall be
designed and equipped as specified in Section G2432.2 and
shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's
installation instructions.
SECTION G2447 (623)
COOKING APPLIANCES
G2447.1 (623.1) Cooking appliances. Cooking appliances
that are designed for permanent installation, including ranges,
ovens, stoves, broilers, grills, fryers, griddles, hot plates and
barbecues, shall be tested in accordance with ANSI Z21.1 or
ANSI Z21.58 and shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's installation instructions.
G2447.2 (623.2) Prohibited location. Cooking appliances
designed, tested, listed and labeled for use in commercial
occupancies shall not be installed within dwelling units or
within any area where domestic cooking operations occur.
G2447.3 (623.3) Domestic appliances. Cooking appliances
installed within dwelling units and within areas where domes-
tic cooking operations occur shall be listed and labeled as
household-type appliances for domestic use.
G2447.4 (623.4) Range installation. Ranges installed on
combustible floors shall be set on their own bases or legs and
shall be installed with clearances of not less than that shown
on the label.
G2447.5 (623.7) Vertical clearance above cooking top.
Household cooking appliances shall have a vertical clear-
ance above the cooking top of not less than 30 inches (760
mm) to combustible material and metal cabinets. A minimum
clearance of 24 inches (610 mm) is permitted where one of
the following is installed:
1. The underside of the combustible material or metal
cabinet above the cooking top is protected with not less
than 7 4 inch (6 mm) thick insulating millboard covered
with sheet metal not less than 0.0122 inch (0.3 mm)
thick.
2. A metal ventilating hood constructed of sheet metal not
less than 0.0122 inch (0.3 mm) thick is installed above
the cooking top with a clearance of not less than 7 4
inch (6 mm) between the hood and the underside of the
combustible material or metal cabinet. The hood shall
have a width not less than the width of the appliance
and shall be centered over the appliance.
3. A listed cooking appliance or microwave oven is
installed over a listed cooking appliance and in compli-
ance with the terms of the manufacturer's installation
instructions for the upper appliance.
SECTION G2448 (624)
WATER HEATERS
G2448.1 (624.1) General. Water heaters shall be tested in
accordance with ANSI Z 21.10.1 and ANSI Z 21.10.3 and
shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's
installation instructions.
G2448.1.1 (624.1.1) Installation requirements. The
requirements for water heaters relative to sizing, relief
valves, drain pans and scald protection shall be in accor-
dance with this code.
G2448.2 (624.2) Water heaters utilized for space heating.
Water heaters utilized both to supply potable hot water and
provide hot water for space-heating applications shall be
listed and labeled for such applications by the manufacturer
and shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's
installation instructions and this code.
SECTION G2449 (627)
AIR CONDITIONING APPLIANCES
G2449.1 (627.1) General. Air conditioning appliances shall
be tested in accordance with ANSI Z2 1.40.1 or ANSI
Z2 1.40.2 and shall be installed in accordance with the manu-
facturer's installation instructions.
G2449.2 (627.2) Independent piping. Gas piping serving
heating appliances shall be permitted to also serve cooling
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appliances where such heating and cooling appliances cannot
be operated simultaneously. (See Section G2413.)
G2449.3 (627.3) Connection of gas engine-powered air
conditioners. To protect against the effects of normal vibra-
tion in service, gas engines shall not be rigidly connected to
the gas supply piping.
G2449.4 (627.6) Installation. Air conditioning appliances
shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions. Unless the appliance is listed for installation on
a combustible surface such as a floor or roof, or unless the
surface is protected in an approved manner, the appliance
shall be installed on a surface of noncombustible construction
with noncombustible material and surface finish and with no
combustible material against the underside thereof.
SECTION G2450 (628)
ILLUMINATING APPLIANCES
G2450.1 (628.1) General. Illuminating appliances shall be
tested in accordance with ANSI Z21.42 and shall be installed
in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions.
G2450.2 (628.2) Mounting on buildings. Illuminating appli-
ances designed for wall or ceiling mounting shall be securely
attached to substantial structures in such a manner that they
are not dependent on the gas piping for support.
G2450.3 (628.3) Mounting on posts. Illuminating appli-
ances designed for post mounting shall be securely and rig-
idly attached to a post. Posts shall be rigidly mounted. The
strength and rigidity of posts greater than 3 feet (914 mm) in
height shall be at least equivalent to that of a 2.5-inch-diame-
ter (64 mm) post constructed of 0.064-inch-thick (1.6 mm)
steel or a 1-inch (25 mm) Schedule 40 steel pipe. Posts 3 feet
(914 mm) or less in height shall not be smaller than V 4 -inch
(19.1 mm) Schedule 40 steel pipe. Drain openings shall be
provided near the base of posts where there is a possibility of
water collecting inside them.
G2450.4 (628.4) Appliance pressure regulators. Where an
appliance pressure regulator is not supplied with an illumi-
nating appliance and the service line is not equipped with a
service pressure regulator, an appliance pressure regulator
shall be installed in the line to the illuminating appliance. For
multiple installations, one regulator of adequate capacity
shall be permitted to serve more than one illuminating appli-
ance.
SECTION G2452 (631)
BOILERS
G2452.1 (631.1) Standards. Boilers shall be listed in accor-
dance with the requirements of ANSI Z2 1.1 3 or UL 795. If
applicable, the boiler shall be designed and constructed in
accordance with the requirements of ASME CSD-1 and as
applicable, the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Sec-
tions I, II, IV, V and IX and NFPA 85.
G2452.2 (631.2) Installation. In addition to the requirements
of this code, the installation of boilers shall be in accordance
with the manufacturer's instructions and this code. Operating
instructions of a permanent type shall be attached to the
boiler. Boilers shall have all controls set, adjusted and tested
by the installer. A complete control diagram together with
complete boiler operating instructions shall be furnished by
the installer. The manufacturer's rating data and the name-
plate shall be attached to the boiler.
G2452.3 (631.3) Clearance to combustible material. Clear-
ances to combustible materials shall be in accordance with
Section G2409.4.
SECTION G2453 (634)
CHIMNEY DAMPER OPENING AREA
G2453.1 (634.1) Free opening area of chimney dampers.
Where an unlisted decorative appliance for installation in a
ventedfireplace is installed, the fireplace damper shall have a
permanent free opening equal to or greater than specified in
Table G2453.1.
SECTION G2454 (636)
OUTDOOR DECORATIVE APPLIANCES
G2454.1 (636.1) General. Permanently fixed-in-place out-
door decorative appliances shall be tested in accordance with
ANSI Z21.97 and shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions.
SECTION G2451 (630)
INFRARED RADIANT HEATERS
G245I.1 (630.1) General. Infrared radiant heaters shall be
tested in accordance with ANSI Z83.19 or Z83.20 and shall
be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
G2451.2 (630.2) Support. Infrared radiant heaters shall be
fixed in a position independent of gas and electric supply
lines. Hangers and brackets shall be of noncombustible mate-
rial.
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TABLE G2453.1 (634.1)
FREE OPENING AREA OF CHIMNEY DAMPER FOR VENTING FLUE GASES FROM UNLISTED DECORATIVE APPLIANCES FOR
INSTALLATION IN VENTED FIREPLACES
CHIMNEY
HEIGHT(feet)
MINIMUM PERMANENT FREE OPENING
(square inches)*
8
13
20
29
39
51
64
Appliance input rating (Btu per hour)
6
7,800
14,000
23,200
34,000
46,400
62,400
80.000
8
8,400
15,200
25,200
37,000
50,400
68,000
86,000
10
9,000
16.800
27,600
40,400
55,800
74,400
96,400
15
9,800
18,200
30,200
44,600
62,400
84,000
108,800
20
10,600
20,200
32,600
50,400
68,400
94,000
122,200
30
11,200
21,600
36,600
55,200
76,800
105,800
138,600
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square inch = 645.16 mirr. 1 ,000 Btu per hour = 0.293 kW.
a. The first six minimum permanent free openings (8 square inches to 51 square inches) correspond approximately to the cross-sectional areas of chimneys
having diameters of 3 inches through 8 inches, respectively. The 64- square inch opening corresponds to the cross-sectional area of standard 8-inch by 8-inch
chimney tile.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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612 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
Part VII— Plumbing
CHAPTER 25
PLUMBING ADMINISTRATION
SECTION P2501
GENERAL
P2501.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall establish
the general administrative requirements applicable to plumb-
ing systems and inspection requirements of this code.
P2501.2 Application. In addition to the general administra-
tion requirements of Chapter I , the administrative provisions
of this chapter shall also apply to the plumbing requirements
of Chapters 25 through 32.
SECTION P2502
EXISTING PLUMBING SYSTEMS
P2502.1 Existing building sewers and drains. Existing
building sewers and drains shall be used in connection with
new systems when found by examination and/or test to con-
form to the requirements prescribed by this document.
P2502.2 Additions, alterations or repairs. Additions, alter-
ations, renovations or repairs to any plumbing system shall
conform to that required for a new plumbing system without
requiring the existing plumbing system to comply with all the
requirements of this code. Additions, alterations or repairs
shall not cause an existing system to become unsafe, insani-
tary or overloaded.
Minor additions, alterations, renovations and repairs to
existing plumbing systems shall be permitted in the same
manner and arrangement as in the existing system, provided
that such repairs or replacement are not hazardous and are
approved.
SECTION P2503
INSPECTION AND TESTS
P2503.1 Inspection required. New plumbing work and parts
of existing systems affected by new work or alterations shall
be inspected by the building official, to ensure compliance
with the requirements of this code.
P2503.2 Concealment. A plumbing or drainage system, or
part thereof, shall not be covered, concealed or put into use
until it has been tested, inspected and approved by the build-
ing official.
P2503.3 Responsibility of permittee. Test equipment, mate-
rials and labor shall be furnished by the permittee.
P2503.4 Building sewer testing. The building sewer shall be
tested by insertion of a test plug at the point of connection
with the public sewer and filling the building sewer with
water, testing with not less than a 10-foot (3048 mm) head of
water and be able to maintain such pressure for 15 minutes.
P2503.5 DWV systems testing. Rough and finished plumb-
ing installations shall be tested in accordance with Sections
P2503.5.1 and P2503.5.2.
P2503.5.1 Rough plumbing. DWV systems shall be
tested on completion of the rough piping installation by
water or for piping systems other than plastic, by air with
no evidence of leakage. Either test shall be applied to the
drainage system in its entirety or in sections after rough
piping has been installed, as follows:
1 . Water test. Each section shall be filled with water to
a point not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) above the
highest fitting connection in that section, or to the
highest point in the completed system. Water shall
be held in the section under test for a period of 15
minutes. The system shall prove leak free by visual
inspection.
2. Air test. The portion under test shall be maintained
at a gauge pressure of 5 pounds per square inch (psi)
(34 kPa) or 10 inches of mercury column (34 kPa).
This pressure shall be held without introduction of
additional air for a period of 15 minutes.
P2503.5.2 Finished plumbing. After the plumbing fix-
tures have been set and their traps filled with water, their
connections shall be tested and proved gas tight and/or
water tight as follows:
1. Water tightness. Each fixture shall be filled and then
drained. Traps and fixture connections shall be
proven water tight by visual inspection.
2. Gas tightness. When required by the local adminis-
trative authority, a final test for gas tightness of the
DWV system shall be made by the smoke or pepper-
mint test as follows:
2.1. Smoke test. Introduce a pungent, thick
smoke into the system. When the smoke
appears at vent terminals, such terminals
shall be sealed and a pressure equivalent to a
1-inch water column (249 Pa) shall be
applied and maintained for a test period of
not less than 15 minutes.
2.2. Peppermint test. Introduce 2 ounces (59 mL)
of oil of peppermint into the system. Add 10
quarts (9464 mL) of hot water and seal all
vent terminals. The odor of peppermint shall
not be detected at any trap or other point in
the system.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
613
PLUMBING ADMINISTRATION
P2503.6 Shower liner test. Where shower floors and recep-
tors are made water tight by the application of materials
required by Section P2709.2, the completed liner installation
shall be tested. The pipe from the shower drain shall be
plugged water tight for the test. The floor and receptor area
shall be filled with potable water to a depth of not less than 2
inches (51 mm) measured at the threshold. Where a threshold
of at least 2 inches high does not exist, a temporary threshold
shall be constructed to retain the test water in the lined floor
or receptor area to a level not less than 2 inches deep mea-
sured at the threshold. The water shall be retained for a test
period of not less than 15 minutes and there shall be no evi-
dence of leakage.
P2503.7 Water-supply system testing. Upon completion of
the water-supply system or a section of it, the system or por-
tion completed shall be tested and proved tight under a water
pressure of not less than the working pressure of the system
or, for piping systems other than plastic, by an air test of not
less than 50 psi (345 kPa). This pressure shall be held for not
less than 15 minutes. The water used for tests shall be
obtained from a potable water source.
P2503.8 Inspection and testing of backflow prevention
devices. Inspection and testing of backflow prevention
devices shall comply with Sections P2503.8.1 and P2503.8.2.
P2503.8.1 Inspections. Inspections shall be made of all
backflow prevention assemblies to determine whether they
are operable.
P2503.8.2 Testing. Reduced pressure principle, double
check, double check detector and pressure vacuum breaker
backflow preventer assemblies shall be tested at the time
of installation, immediately after repairs or relocation and
at least annually.
P2503.9 Test gauges. Gauges used for testing shall be as fol-
lows:
1 . Tests requiring a pressure of 10 psi or less shall utilize a
testing gauge having increments of 0.10 psi (0.69 kPa)
or less.
2. Tests requiring a pressure higher than 10 psi (0.69 kPa)
but less than or equal to 100 psi (690 kPa) shall use a
testing gauge having increments of 1 psi (6.9 kPa) or
less.
3. Tests requiring a pressure higher than 100 psi (690 kPa)
shall use a testing gauge having increments of 2 psi (14
kPa) or less.
614
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 26
^23 i— . I t| ft—. Sio isia in Bm %£ IVI S3 EI v %» n ^ai\« %J? E n Lm i VI a™ 1^1 I ^#
SECTION P2601
GENERAL
P2601.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern
the installation of plumbing not specifically covered in other
chapters applicable to plumbing systems. The installation of
plumbing, appliances, equipment and systems not addressed
by this code shall comply with the applicable provisions of
the International Plumbing Code.
P2601.2 Connections to drainage system. Plumbing fixtures,
drains, appurtenances and appliances used to receive or discharge
liquid wastes or sewage shall be directly connected to the sanitary
drainage system of the building or premises, in accordance with
the requirements of this code. This section shall not be construed
to prevent indirect waste systems.
Exception: Bathtubs, showers, lavatories, clothes washers
and laundry trays shall not be required to discharge to the
sanitary drainage system where such fixtures discharge to
an approved gray water system for flushing of water clos-
ets and urinals or for subsurface landscape irrigation.
P2601.3 Flood hazard areas. In flood hazard areas as estab-
lished by Table R301.2(l), plumbing fixtures, drains, and
appliances shall be located or installed in accordance with
Section R322. 1.6.
SECTION P2602
INDIVIDUAL WATER SUPPLY AND SEWAGE
DISPOSAL
P2602.1 General. The water-distribution and drainage sys-
tem of any building or premises where plumbing fixtures are
installed shall be connected to a public water supply or sewer
system, respectively, if available. When either a public water-
supply or sewer system, or both, are not available, or connec-
tion to them is not feasible, an individual water supply or
individual (private) sewage-disposal system, or both, shall be
provided.
P2602.2 Flood-resistant installation. In flood hazard areas
as established by Table R301 .2(1):
1. Water supply systems shall be designed and con-
structed to prevent infiltration of floodwaters.
2. Pipes for sewage disposal systems shall be designed
and constructed to prevent infiltration of floodwaters
into the systems and discharges from the systems into
floodwaters.
SECTION P2603
STRUCTURAL AND PIPING PROTECTION
P2603.1 General. In the process of installing or repairing any
part of a plumbing and drainage installation, the finished
floors, walls, ceilings, tile work or any other part of the build-
ing or premises that must be changed or replaced shall be left
in a safe structural condition in accordance with the require-
ments of the building portion of this code.
P2603.2 Drilling and notching. Wood-framed structural
members shall not be drilled, notched or altered in any man-
ner except as provided in Sections R502.8, R602.6, R802.7
and R802.7.1. Holes in load-bearing members of cold-formed
steel light-frame construction shall be permitted only in
accordance with Sections R505.2.5, R603.2.5 and R804.2.5.
In accordance with the provisions in Sections R505.3.5,
R603.3.4 and R804.3.4, cutting and notching of flanges and
lips of load-bearing members of cold-formed steel light-
frame construction shall not be permitted. Structural insulated
panels (SIPs) shall be drilled and notched or altered in accor-
dance with the provisions of Section R613.7.
P2603.2.1 Protection against physical damage. In con-
cealed locations, where piping, other than cast-iron or gal-
vanized steel, is installed through holes or notches in
studs, joists, rafters or similar members less than l'/ 2
inches (38 mm) from the nearest edge of the member, the
pipe shall be protected by steel shield plates. Such shield
plates shall have a thickness of not less than 0.0575 inch
(1.463 mm) (No. 16 Gage). Such plates shall cover the
area of the pipe where the member is notched or bored,
and shall extend not less than 2 inches (51 mm) above sole
plates and below top plates.
P2603.3 Breakage and corrosion. Pipes passing through |
concrete or cinder walls and floors, cold-formed steel framing
or other corrosive material shall be protected against external
corrosion by a protective sheathing or wrapping or other
means that will withstand any reaction from lime and acid of
concrete, cinder or other corrosive material. Sheathing or
wrapping shall allow for movement including expansion and
contraction of piping. The wall thickness of material shall be
not less than 0.025 inch (0.64 mm).
P2603.4 Pipes through foundation walls. A pipe that passes I
through a foundation wall shall be provided with a relieving J
arch, or a pipe sleeve shall be built into the foundation wall.
The sleeve shall be two pipe sizes greater than the pipe pass-
ing through the wall.
P2603.5 Freezing. In localities having a winter design tem-
perature of 32°F (0°C) or lower as shown in Table R301 .2(1)
of this code, a water, soil or waste pipe shall not be installed
outside of a building, in exterior walls, in attics or crawl
spaces, or in any other place subjected to freezing tempera-
ture unless adequate provision is made to protect it from
freezing by insulation or heat or both. Water service pipe
shall be installed not less than 12 inches (305 mm) deep and
not less than 6 inches (152 mm) below the frost line.
P2603.5.1 Sewer depth. Building sewers that connect to
private sewage disposal systems shall be a not less than
[NUMBER] inches (mm) below finished grade at the point
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
615
GENERAL PLUMBING REQUIREMENTS
of septic tank connection. Building sewers shall be not less
than [NUMBER] inches (mm) below grade.
SECTIONP2604
TRENCHING AND BACKFILLING
P2604.1 Trenching and bedding. Where trenches are exca-
vated such that the bottom of the trench forms the bed for the
pipe, solid and continuous load-bearing support shall be pro-
vided between joints. Where over-excavated, the trench shall
be backfilled to the proper grade with compacted earth, sand,
fine gravel or similar granular material. Piping shall not be
supported on rocks or blocks at any point. Rocky or unstable
soil shall be over-excavated by two or more pipe diameters
and brought to the proper grade with suitable compacted
granular material.
P2604.2 Common trench. See Section P2905.4.2.
P2604.3 Backfilling. Backfill shall be free from discarded
construction material and debris. Backfill shall be free from
rocks, broken concrete and frozen chunks until the pipe is
covered by not less than 12 inches (305 mm) of tamped earth.
Backfill shall be placed evenly on both sides of the pipe and
tamped to retain proper alignment. Loose earth shall be care-
fully placed in the trench in 6-inch (152 mm) layers and
tamped in place.
P2604.4 Protection of footings. Trenching installed parallel
to footings shall not extend below the 45-degree (0.79 rad)
bearing plane of the bottom edge of a wall or footing (see
Figure P2604.4).
//// \\V /// WW//, \\\ N ///,
'//A\\V///\\V
INSTALL PIPES
ABOVE THIS LINE
For SI: ] degree = 0.018 rad.
FIGURE P2604.4
PIPE LOCATION WITH RESPECT TO FOOTINGS
SECTION P2605
SUPPORT
P2605.1 General. Piping shall be supported in accordance
with the following:
1 . Piping shall be supported to ensure alignment and pre-
vent sagging, and allow movement associated with the
expansion and contraction of the piping system.
2. Piping in the ground shall be laid on a firm bed for its
entire length, except where support is otherwise pro-
vided.
3. Hangers and anchors shall be of sufficient strength to
maintain their proportional share of the weight of pipe
and contents and of sufficient width to prevent distor-
tion to the pipe. Hangers and strapping shall be of
approved material that will not promote galvanic
action. Rigid support sway bracing shall be provided at
changes in direction greater than 45 degrees (0.79 rad)
for pipe sizes 4 inches (102 mm) and larger.
4. Piping shall be supported at distances not to exceed
those indicated in Table P2605.1 .
SECTION P2606
PENETRATIONS
P2606.1 Sealing of annular spaces. The annular space
between the outside of a pipe and the inside of a pipe sleeve
or between the outside of a pipe and an opening in a building
envelope wall, floor, or ceiling assembly penetrated by a pipe
shall be sealed with caulking material or foam sealant or
closed with a gasketing system. The caulking material, foam
sealant or gasketing system shall be designed for the condi-
tions at the penetration location and shall be compatible with
the pipe, sleeve and building materials in contact with the
sealing materials. Annular spaces created by pipes penetrat-
ing fire-resistance-rated assemblies or membranes of such
assemblies shall be sealed or closed in accordance with the
building portion of this code.
SECTION P2607
WATERPROOFING OF OPENINGS
P2607.1 General. Roof and exterior wall penetrations shall
be made water tight. Joints at the roof, around vent pipes,
shall be made water tight by the use of lead, copper or galva-
nized iron flashings or an approved elastomeric material.
Counter-flashing shall not restrict the required internal cross-
sectional area of any vent.
SECTION P2608
WORKMANSHIP
P2608.1 General. Valves, pipes and fittings shall be installed
in correct relationship to the direction of the flow. Burred
ends shall be reamed to the full bore of the pipe.
616
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
GENERAL PLUMBING REQUIREMENTS
SECTION P2609
MATERIALS EVALUATION AND LISTING
P2609.1 Identification. Each length of pipe and each pipe
fitting, trap, fixture, material and device utilized in a plumb-
ing system shall bear the identification of the manufacturer
and any markings required by the applicable referenced stan-
dards.
P2609.2 Installation of materials. All materials used shall
be installed in strict accordance with the standards under
which the materials are accepted and approved. In the
absence of such installation procedures, the manufacturer's
instructions shall be followed. Where the requirements of ref-
erenced standards or manufacturer's instructions do not con-
form to the minimum provisions of this code, the provisions
of this code shall apply.
P2609.3 Plastic pipe, fittings and components. All plastic
pipe, fittings and components shall be third-party certified as
conforming to NSF 14.
P2609.4 Third-party certification. All plumbing products
and materials shall be listed by a third-party certification
agency as complying with the referenced standards. Products
and materials shall be identified in accordance with Section
P2609.1.
P2609.5 Water supply systems. Water service pipes, water
distribution pipes and the necessary connecting pipes, fit-
tings, control valves, faucets and appurtenances used to dis-
pense water intended for human ingestion shall be evaluated
and listed as conforming to the requirements of NSF 61.
TABLE P2605.1
PIPING SUPPORT
PIPING MATERIAL
MAXIMUM HORIZONTAL
SPACING (feet)
MAXIMUM VERTICAL
SPACING
ABS pipe
4
10 b
Aluminum tubing
10
15
Brass pipe
10
10
Cast-iron pipe
5 a
15
Copper or copper alloy pipe
12
10
Copper or copper alloy tubing (l V 4 inches in diameter and smaller)
6
10
Copper or copper alloy tubing (l'/ 2 inches in diameter and larger)
10
10
Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipe
2.67 (32 inches)
10 b
Cross-linked polyethylene/aluminum/cross-linked polyethylene (PEX-AL-PEX) pipe
2.67 (32 inches)
4 b
CPVC pipe or tubing (1 inch in diameter and smaller)
3
10 b
CPVC pipe or tubing (1 V 4 inches in diameter and larger)
4
10 b
Lead pipe
Continuous
4
PB pipe or tubing
2.67 (32 inches)
4
Polyethylene/aluminum/polyethylene (PE-AL-PE) pipe
2.67 (32 inches)
4 b
Polyethylene of raised temperature (PE-RT) pipe
2.67 (32 inches)
10"
Polypropylene (PP) pipe or tubing (1 inch and smaller)
2.67 (32 inches)
10 b
Polypropylene (PP) pipe or tubing ( 1 7 4 inches and larger)
4
10 b
PVC pipe
4
10"
Stainless steel drainage systems
10
10"
Steel pipe
12
15
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm.
a. The maximum horizontal spacing of cast-iron pipe hangers shall be increased to 10 feet where 10-foot lengths of pipe are installed.
b. Midstory guide for sizes 2 inches and smaller.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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618 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 27
PLUMBING FIXTURES
SECTION P2701
FIXTURES, FAUCETS AND FIXTURE FITTINGS
P2701.1 Quality of fixtures. Plumbing fixtures, faucets and
fixture fittings shall be constructed of approved materials,
shall have smooth impervious surfaces, shall be free from
defects and concealed fouling surfaces, and shall conform to
the standards cited in this code. Plumbing fixtures shall be
provided with an adequate supply of potable water to flush
and keep the fixtures in a clean and sanitary condition with-
out danger of backflow or cross connection.
SECTION P2702
FIXTURE ACCESSORIES
P2702.1 Plumbing fixtures. Plumbing fixtures, other than
water closets, shall be provided with approved strainers.
Exception: Hub drains and standpipes.
P2702.2 Waste fittings. Waste fittings shall conform to
ASME Al 12. 18.2/CS A B 125.2, ASTM F 409 or to one of the
standards listed in Table P3002.1(l) for above-ground drain-
age and vent pipe and fittings.
P2702.3 Plastic tubular fittings. Plastic tubular fittings shall
conform to ASTM F 409 listed in Table P2701 . 1 .
P2702.4 Carriers for wall-hung water closets. Carriers for
wall-hung water closets shall conform to ASME Al 12.6.1 or
ASME Al 12.6.2.
SECTION P2703
TAIL PIECES
P2703.1 Minimum size. Fixture tail pieces shall be not less
than 1 V 2 inches (38 mm) in diameter for sinks, dishwashers,
laundry tubs, bathtubs and similar fixtures, and not less than
1 7 4 inches (32 mm) in diameter for bidets, lavatories and sim-
ilar fixtures.
SECTION P2704
ACCESS TO CONNECTIONS
P2704.1 General. Slip joints shall be made with an approved
elastomeric gasket and shall be installed only on the trap out-
let, trap inlet and within the trap seal. Fixtures with concealed
slip-joint connections shall be provided with an access panel
or utility space not less than 1 2 inches (305 mm) in its small-
est dimension or other approved arrangement so as to provide
access to the slip connections for inspection and repair.
SECTION P2705
INSTALLATION
P2705.1 General. The installation of fixtures shall conform
to the following:
1 . Floor-outlet or floor-mounted fixtures shall be secured
to the drainage connection and to the floor, where so
designed, by screws, bolts, washers, nuts and similar
fasteners of copper, brass or other corrosion-resistant
material.
2. Wall-hung fixtures shall be rigidly supported so that
strain is not transmitted to the plumbing system.
3. Where fixtures come in contact with walls and floors,
the contact area shall be water tight.
4. Plumbing fixtures shall be usable.
5. Water closets, lavatories and bidets. A water closet,
lavatory or bidet shall not be set closer than 15 inches
(381 mm) from its center to any side wall, partition or
vanity or closer than 30 inches (762 mm) center-to-cen-
ter between adjacent fixtures. There shall be a clearance
of not less than 21 inches (533 mm) in front of a water
closet, lavatory or bidet to any wall, fixture or door.
6. The location of piping, fixtures or equipment shall not
interfere with the operation of windows or doors.
7. In flood hazard areas as established by Table |
R301.2(l), plumbing fixtures shall be located or
installed in accordance with Section R322.1.7.
8. Integral fixture-fitting mounting surfaces on manufac-
tured plumbing fixtures or plumbing fixtures con-
structed on site, shall meet the design requirements of
ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1 or ASME Al 12.19.3/ I
CSAB45.1. 1
SECTION P2706
WASTE RECEPTORS
P2706.1 General. Waste receptors shall be of an approved
type. Plumbing fixtures or other receptors receiving the dis-
charge of indirect waste pipes shall be shaped and have a
capacity to prevent splashing or flooding and shall be readily
accessible for inspection and cleaning. Waste receptors and
standpipes shall be trapped and vented and shall connect to
the building drainage system. A removable strainer or basket
shall cover the waste outlet of waste receptors. Waste recep-
tors shall be installed in ventilated spaces. Waste receptors
shall not be installed in bathrooms, attics, crawl spaces, inter-
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
619
PLUMBING FIXTURES
stitial spaces above ceilings and below floors or in any inac-
cessible or unventilated space such as a closet. Ready access
shall be provided to waste receptors.
Exceptions:
1. Open hub waste receptors shall be permitted in the
form of a hub or pipe extending not less than 1 inch
(25 mm) above a water-impervious floor, and are
not required to have a strainer.
2. Clothes washer standpipes shall not be prohibited in
bathrooms.
P2706.2 Standpipes. Standpipes shall extend not less than of
18 inches (457 mm) but not greater than 42 inches (1067 mm)
TABLE P2701.1
PLUMBING FIXTURES, FAUCETS AND FIXTURE FITTINGS
MATERIAL
Air gap fittings for use with plumbing fixtures, appliances and appurtenances
Bathtub/whirlpool pressure-sealed doors
Diverters for faucets with hose spray, anti-syphon type, residential application
Enameled cast-iron plumbing fixtures
Floor drains
Floor-affixed supports for off-the-floor plumbing fixtures for public use
Framing-affixed supports for off-the-floor water closets with concealed tanks
Hose connection vacuum breaker
Hot water dispensers, household storage type, electrical
Household disposers
Hydraulic performance for water closets and urinals
Individual automatic compensating valves for individual fixture fittings
Individual shower control valves anti-scald
Macerating toilet systems and related components
Nonvitreous ceramic plumbing fixtures
Plastic bathtub units
Plastic lavatories
Plastic shower receptors and shower stall
Plastic sinks
Plastic water closet bowls and tanks
Plumbing fixture fittings
Plumbing fixture waste fittings
Porcelain-enameled formed steel plumbing fixtures
Pressurized flushing devices for plumbing fixtures
Specification for copper sheet and strip for building construction
Stainless steel plumbing fixtures
Suction fittings for use in whirlpool bathtub appliances
Temperature-actuated, flow reduction valves to individual fixture fittings
Thermoplastic accessible and replaceable plastic tube and tubular fittings
Trench drains
Trim for water closet bowls, tanks and urinals
Vacuum breaker wall hydrant-frost-resistant, automatic-draining type
Vitreous china plumbing fixtures
STANDARD
ASME A 112.1.3
ASMEA 112.19.15
ASTM A 1 12.1 8. 1/CSA B125.
ASME A 1 1 2. 1 9. 1M, CSA B45 .2
ASME A 1 12.6.3
ASMEA112.6.1M
ASMEA 112.6.2
ASSE 1052
ASSE 1023
ASSE 1008
ASMEA 112.19.2/CSAB45.1
ASTMA112.18.1/CSABI25.1
ASSE 1016, CSA B 125
ASMEA 112.3.4, CSA B54.9
ASMEA 1 12. 19.2/CSAB45.
ANSI Z124.1.2, ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1
ANSI Z124.3, CSA B45.5
Wall-mounted and pedestal-mounted, adjustable and pivoting lavatory and sink carrier
systems
Water closet flush tank fill valves
Whirlpool bathtub appliances
ANSI Z124.2, CSA B45.5
ANSI Z124.6, CSA B45.5
ANSI Z124.4, CSA B45.5
ASMEA 112.18.1/CSAB125.
ASMEA 112.18.2/CSAB125.2, ASTM F 409
ASME A 112.1 9.1/CSAB45.2
ASSE 1037, CSA B125.3
ASTM B 370
ASME A 1 12.19.3/CSA B45.4
ASMEA 1 12.19.7 /CS A B45. 10
ASSE 1062
ASTM F 409
ASME A 112.6.3
ASME A 112.I9.5/CSAB45.15
ASSE 1019
ASME A 1 12.19.2/CSA B45.1
ASMEA 112.19.12
ASSE 1002, CSA B 125.3
ASME A 112.19.7 /CSA B45.10
620
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
PLUMBING FIXTURES
above the trap weir. Access shall be provided to standpipe
traps and drains for rodding.
P2706.2.1 Laundry tray connection. A laundry tray
waste line is permitted to connect into a standpipe for the
automatic clothes washer drain. The standpipe shall
extend not less than 30 inches (762 mm) above the trap
weir and shall extend above the flood level rim of the
laundry tray. The outlet of the laundry tray shall not be
greater than 30 inches (762 mm) horizontal distance from
the standpipe trap.
P2706.3 Prohibited waste receptors. Plumbing fixtures that
are used for washing or bathing shall not be used to receive
the discharge of indirect waste piping.
Exceptions:
1 . A kitchen sink trap is acceptable for use as a recep-
tor for a dishwasher.
2. A laundry tray is acceptable for use as a receptor for
a clothes washing machine.
SECTION P2707
DIRECTIONAL FITTINGS
P2707.1 Directional fitting required. Approved directional-
type branch fittings shall be installed in fixture tailpieces
receiving the discharge from food waste disposal units or
dishwashers.
SECTION P2708
SHOWERS
P2708.1 General. Shower compartments shall have not less
than 900 square inches (0.6 m 2 ) of interior cross-sectional
area. Shower compartments shall be not less than 30 inches
(762 mm) in minimum dimension measured from the finished
interior dimension of the shower compartment, exclusive of
fixture valves, shower heads, soap dishes, and safety grab
bars or rails. The minimum required area and dimension shall
be measured from the finished interior dimension at a height
equal to the top of the threshold and at a point tangent to its
centerline and shall be continued to a height of not less than
70 inches (1778 mm) above the shower drain outlet. Hinged
shower doors shall open outward. The wall area above built-
in tubs having installed shower heads and in shower compart-
ments shall be constructed in accordance with Section
R702.4. Such walls shall form a water-tight joint with each
other and with either the tub, receptor or shower floor.
Exceptions:
1. Fold-down seats shall be permitted in the shower,
provided the required 900-square-inch (0.6 m 2 )
dimension is maintained when the seat is in the
folded-up position.
2. Shower compartments having not less than 25
inches (635 mm) in minimum dimension measured
from the finished interior dimension of the compart-
ment provided that the shower compartment has a
cross-sectional area of not less than 1,300 square
inches (0.838 nr).
P2708.1.1 Access. The shower compartment access and
egress opening shall have a clear and unobstructed fin-
ished width of not less than 22 inches (559 mm).
P2708.2 Water supply riser. Water supply risers from the
shower valve to the shower head outlet, whether exposed or
concealed, shall be attached to the structure using support
devices designed for use with the specific piping material or
fittings anchored with screws.
P2708.3 Shower control valves. Individual shower and tub/
shower combination valves shall be equipped with control
valves of the pressure-balance, thermostatic-mixing or com-
bination pressure-balance/thermostatic-mixing valve types
with a high limit stop in accordance with ASSE 1016 or
ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1. The high limit stop shall be §
set to limit the water temperature to not greater than 1 20°F
(49°C). In-line thermostatic valves shall not be used for com-
pliance with this section.
P2708.4 Hand showers. Hand-held showers shall conform to
ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1. Hand-held showers shall I
provide backflow protection in accordance with ASME I
A112.18.1/CSA B125.1 or shall be protected against back- §
flow by a device complying with ASME Al 12.1 8.3.
SECTION P2709
SHOWER RECEPTORS
P2709.1 Construction. Where a shower receptor has a fin- 1
ished curb threshold, it shall be not less than 1 inch (25 mm) |
below the sides and back of the receptor. The curb shall be
not less than 2 inches (51 mm) and not more than 9 inches
(229 mm) deep when measured from the top of the curb to the
top of the drain. The finished floor shall slope uniformly
toward the drain not less than 7 4 unit vertical in 12 units hori-
zontal (2 -percent slope) nor more than 7 2 unit vertical per 12 |
units horizontal (4-percent slope) and floor drains shall be |
flanged to provide a water-tight joint in the floor.
P2709.2 Lining required. The adjoining walls and floor
framing enclosing on-site built-up shower receptors shall be
lined with one of the following materials:
1. Sheet lead;
2. Sheet copper;
3. Plastic liner material that complies with ASTM D 4068
orASTMD4551;
4. Hot mopping in accordance with Section P2709.2.3; or
5. Sheet-applied load-bearing, bonded waterproof mem-
branes that comply with ANSI A118.10.
The lining material shall extend not less than 2 inches (51 j
mm) beyond or around the rough jambs and not less than 2 1
inches (51 mm) above finished thresholds. Sheet-applied load (
bearing, bonded waterproof membranes shall be applied in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
P2709.2.1 PVC sheets. Plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
sheet shall meet the requirements of ASTM D 4551. Sheets §
shall be joined by solvent welding in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions.
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621
PLUMBING FIXTURES
P2709.2.2 Chlorinated polyethylene (CPE) sheets. Non-
plasticized chlorinated polyethylene sheet shall meet the
requirements of ASTM D 4068. The liner shall be joined
in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
P2709.2.3 Hot-mopping. Shower receptors lined by hot
mopping shall be built-up with not less than three layers of
standard grade Type 15 asphalt-impregnated roofing felt.
The bottom layer shall be fitted to the formed subbase and
each succeeding layer thoroughly hot-mopped to that
below. All corners shall be carefully fitted and shall be
made strong and water tight by folding or lapping, and
each corner shall be reinforced with suitable webbing hot-
mopped in place. All folds, laps and reinforcing webbing
shall extend not less than 4 inches (102 mm) in all direc-
tions from the corner and all webbing shall be of approved
type and mesh, producing a tensile strength of not less
than 50 pounds per inch (893 kg/m) in either direction.
P2709.2.4 Liquid-type, trowel-applied, load-bearing,
bonded waterproof materials. Liquid-type, trowel-
applied, load-bearing, bonded waterproof materials shall
meet the requirements of ANSI Al 18.10 and shall be
applied in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
P2709.3 Installation. Lining materials shall be sloped one-
fourth unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (2-percent slope) to
weep holes in the subdrain by means of a smooth, solidly
formed subbase, shall be properly recessed and fastened to
approved backing so as not to occupy the space required for
the wall covering, and shall not be nailed or perforated at any
point less than 1 inch (25.4 mm) above the finished threshold.
P2709.3.1 Materials. Lead and copper linings shall be
insulated from conducting substances other than the con-
necting drain by 15-pound (6.80 kg) asphalt felt or its
equivalent. Sheet lead liners shall weigh not less than 4
pounds per square foot (19.5 kg/m 2 ). Sheet copper liners
shall weigh not less than 12 ounces per square foot (3.7
kg/m 2 ). Joints in lead and copper pans or liners shall be
burned or silver brazed, respectively. Joints in plastic liner
materials shall be jointed per the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
P2709.4 Receptor drains. An approved flanged drain shall
be installed with shower subpans or linings. The flange shall
be placed flush with the subbase and be equipped with a
clamping ring or other device to make a water-tight connec-
tion between the lining and the drain. The flange shall have
weep holes into the drain.
SECTION P2710
SHOWER WALLS
P2710.1 Bathtub and shower spaces. Shower walls shall be
finished in accordance with Section R307.2.
SECTION P2711
LAVATORIES
P2711.1 Approval. Lavatories shall conform to ANSI
Z124.3, ASME A112.19.1/CSA B45.2, ASME A112.19.2/
CSA B45.1 or ASME Al 12.19.3/CSA B45.4.
P2711.2 Cultured marble lavatories. Cultured marble van-
ity tops with an integral lavatory shall conform to ANSI
Z124.3orCSAB45.5.
P2711.3 Lavatory waste outlets. Lavatories shall have
waste outlets not less than 1 V 4 inch (32 mm) in diameter. A
strainer, pop-up stopper, crossbar or other device shall be
provided to restrict the clear opening of the waste outlet.
P2711.4 Movable lavatory systems. Movable lavatory sys-
tems shall comply with ASME Al 1 2. 1 9. 12.
SECTION P2712
WATER CLOSETS
P2712.1 Approval. Water closets shall conform to the water
consumption requirements of Section P2903.2 and shall con-
form to ANSI Z124.4, ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1, ASME
Al 12.19.3/CSA B45.4 or CSA B45.5. Water closets shall
conform to the hydraulic performance requirements of
ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1. Water closet tanks shall con-
form to ANSI Z124.4, ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1, ASME
Al 12.19.3/CSA B45.4 or CSA B45.5. Water closets that
have an invisible seal and un ventilated space or walls that are
not thoroughly washed at each discharge shall be prohibited.
Water closets that permit backflow of the contents of the
bowl into the flush tank shall be prohibited.
P2712.2 Flushing devices required. Water closets shall be
provided with a flush tank, flushometer tank or flushometer
valve designed and installed to supply water in sufficient
quantity and flow to flush the contents of the fixture, to
cleanse the fixture and refill the fixture trap in accordance
with ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1.
P2712.3 Water supply for flushing devices. An adequate
quantity of water shall be provided to flush and clean the fix-
ture served. The water supply to flushing devices equipped
for manual flushing shall be controlled by a float valve or
other automatic device designed to refill the tank after each
discharge and to completely shut off the water flow to the
tank when the tank is filled to operational capacity. Provision
shall be made to automatically supply water to the fixture so
as to refill the trap after each flushing.
P2712.4 Flush valves in flush tanks. Flush valve seats in
tanks for flushing water closets shall be not less than 1 inch
(25 mm) above the flood-level rim of the bowl connected
thereto, except an approved water closet and flush tank com-
bination designed so that when the tank is flushed and the fix-
ture is clogged or partially clogged, the flush valve will close
622
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
PLUMBING FIXTURES
tightly so that water will not spill continuously over the rim
of the bowl or backflow from the bowl to the tank.
P2712.5 Overflows in flush tanks. Flush tanks shall be pro-
vided with overflows discharging to the water closet con-
nected thereto and such overflow shall be of sufficient size to
prevent flooding the tank at the maximum rate at which the
tanks are supplied with water according to the manufacturer's
design conditions.
P2712.6 Access. All parts in a flush tank shall be accessible
for repair and replacement.
P2712.7 Water closet seats. Water closets shall be equipped
with seats of smooth, nonabsorbent material and shall be
properly sized for the water closet bowl type.
P2712.8 Flush tank lining. Sheet copper used for flush tank
linings shall have a weight of not less than 10 ounces per
square foot (3 kg/m 2 ).
P2712.9 Electro-hydraulic water closets. Electro-hydraulic
water closets shall conform to ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1.
SECTION P2713
BATHTUBS
P2713.1 Bathtub waste outlets and overflows. Bathtubs
shall be equipped with a waste outlet and an overflow outlet.
The outlets shall be connected to waste tubing or piping not
less than 1 7 2 inches (38 mm) in diameter. The waste outlet
shall be equipped with a water-tight stopper.
P2713.2 Bathtub enclosures. Doors within a bathtub enclo-
sure shall conform to ASME A 1 12.19.15.
P2713.3 Bathtub and whirlpool bathtub valves. Hot water
supplied to bathtubs and whirlpool bathtubs shall be limited
to a temperature of not greater than 120°F (49°C) by a water-
temperature limiting device that conforms to ASSE 1070 or
CSA B 125.3, except where such protection is otherwise pro-
vided by a combination tub/shower valve in accordance with
Section P2708.3.
SECTION P271 4
SINKS
P2714.1 Sink waste outlets. Sinks shall be provided with
waste outlets not less than 1 '/ 2 inches (38 mm) in diameter. A
strainer, crossbar or other device shall be provided to restrict
the clear opening of the waste outlet.
P2714.2 Movable sink systems. Movable sink systems shall
comply with ASME Al 12. 19. 12.
SECTION P2715
LAUNDRY TUBS
P2715.1 Laundry tub waste outlet. Each compartment of a
laundry tub shall be provided with a waste outlet not less than
l'/ 2 inches (38 mm) in diameter and a strainer or crossbar to
restrict the clear opening of the waste outlet.
SECTION P271 6
FOOD WASTE GRINDER
P2716.1 Food waste grinder waste outlets. Food waste
grinders shall be connected to a drain of not less than l'/ 2
inches (38 mm) in diameter.
P2716.2 Water supply required. Food waste grinders shall
be provided with an adequate supply of water at a sufficient
flow rate to ensure proper functioning of the unit.
SECTION P2717
DISHWASHING MACHINES
P2717.1 Protection of water supply. The water supply for
dishwashers shall be protected by an air gap or integral back-
flow preventer.
P2717.2 Sink and dishwasher. A sink and dishwasher are
permitted to discharge through a single t'/ 2 -inch (38 mm)
trap. The discharge pipe from the dishwasher shall be
increased to not less than 3 / 4 inch (19 mm) in diameter and
shall be connected with a wye fitting to the sink tailpiece. The
dishwasher waste line shall rise and be securely fastened to
the underside of the counter before connecting to the sink
tailpiece.
P2717.3 Sink, dishwasher and food grinder. The combined
discharge from a sink, dishwasher, and waste grinder is per-
mitted to discharge through a single 1 '/ 2 -inch (38 mm) trap.
The discharge pipe from the dishwasher shall be increased to
not less than 3 / 4 inch (19 mm) in diameter and shall connect
with a wye fitting between the discharge of the food-waste
grinder and the trap inlet or to the head of the food grinder.
The dishwasher waste line shall rise and be securely fastened
to the underside of the counter before connecting to the sink
tail piece or the food grinder.
SECTION P271 8
CLOTHES WASHING MACHINE
P2718.1 Waste connection. The discharge from a clothes
washing machine shall be through an air break.
SECTION P2719
FLOOR DRAINS
P2719.1 Floor drains. Floor drains shall have waste outlets
not less than 2 inches (5 1 mm) in diameter and a removable
strainer. The floor drain shall be constructed so that the drain
can be cleaned. Access shall be provided to the drain inlet.
Floor drains shall not be located under or have their access
restricted by permanently installed appliances.
SECTION P2720
WHIRLPOOL BATHTUBS
P2720.1 Access to pump. Access shall be provided to circu-
lation pumps in accordance with the fixture or pump manu-
facturer's installation instructions. Where the manufacturer's
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
623
PLUMBING FIXTURES
instructions do not specify the location and minimum size of
field-fabricated access openings, an opening of not less than
12-inches by 12-inches (305 mm by 305 mm) shall be
installed for access to the circulation pump. Where pumps are
located more than 2 feet (610 mm) from the access opening,
an opening of not less than 18 inches by 18 inches (457 mm
by 457 mm) shall be installed. A door or panel shall be per-
mitted to close the opening. In all cases, the access opening
shall be unobstructed and be of the size necessary to permit
the removal and replacement of the circulation pump.
P2720.2 Piping drainage. The circulation pump shall be
accessibly located above the crown weir of the trap. The
pump drain line shall be properly graded to ensure minimum
water retention in the volute after fixture use. The circulation
piping shall be installed to be self-draining.
P2720.3 Leak testing. Leak testing and pump operation shall
be performed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
P2720.4 Manufacturer's instructions. The product shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
SECTION P2721
BIDET INSTALLATIONS
P2721.1 Water supply. The bidet shall be equipped with
either an air-gap-type or vacuum-breaker-type fixture supply
fitting.
P2721.2 Bidet water temperature. The discharge water
temperature from a bidet fitting shall be limited to not greater
than 110°F (43°C) by a water-temperature-limiting device
conforming to ASSE 1070 or CSA B 125.3.
valves shall be installed in an accessible location and shall
not be used alone as a substitute for the balanced pressure,
thermostatic or combination shower valves required in Sec-
tion P2708.3.
P2722.5 Water closet personal hygiene devices. Personal
hygiene devices integral to water closets or water closet seats
shall conform to the requirements of ASME Al 12.4.2.
SECTION P2723
MACERATING TOILET SYSTEMS
P2723.1 General. Macerating toilet systems shall be
installed in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
P2723.2 Drain. The size of the drain from the macerating toi-
let system shall be not less than V 4 inch (19 mm) in diameter.
SECTION P2724
SPECIALTY TEMPERATURE CONTROL DEVICES
AND VALVES
P2724.1 Temperature-actuated mixing valves. Tempera-
ture-actuated mixing valves, which are installed to reduce
water temperatures to defined limits, shall comply with ASSE
1017. Such valves shall be installed at the hot water source.
P2724.2 Temperature-actuated, flow-reduction devices
for individual fixtures. Temperature-actuated, flow-reduc-
tion devices, where installed for individual fixture fittings,
shall conform to ASSE 1062. Such valves shall not be used
alone as a substitute for the balanced pressure, thermostatic or
combination shower valves required for showers in Section
P2708.3.
SECTION P2722
FIXTURE FITTING
P2722.1 General. Fixture supply valves and faucets shall
comply with ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1 as listed in
Table P2701.1. Faucets and fixture fittings that supply drink-
ing water for human ingestion shall conform to the require-
ments of NSF 61, Section 9. Flexible water connectors shall
conform to the requirements of Section P2905.7.
P2722.2 Hot water. Fixture fittings and faucets that are sup-
plied with both hot and cold water shall be installed and
adjusted so that the left-hand side of the water temperature
control represents the flow of hot water when facing the out-
let.
Exception: Shower and tub/shower mixing valves con-
forming to ASSE 1016 or ASME A 1 12.18. 1/CSAB125.1,
where the water temperature control corresponds to the
markings on the device.
P2722.3 Hose-connected outlets. Faucets and fixture fittings
with hose-connected outlets shall conform to ASME
Al 12.18.3 or ASME A] 12.18.1/CSA B125.1.
P2722.4 Individual pressure-balancing in-line valves for
individual fixture fittings. Where individual pressure-bal-
ancing in-line valves for individual fixture fittings are
installed, the valves shall comply with ASSE 1066. Such
624
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 28
W/\ S Cn he A I End
SECTION P2801
GENERAL
P2801.1 Required. Each dwelling shall have an approved
automatic water heater or other type of domestic water-heat-
ing system sufficient to supply hot water to plumbing fixtures
and appliances intended for bathing, washing or culinary pur-
poses. Storage tanks shall be constructed of noncorrosive
metal or shall be lined with noncorrosive material.
P2801.2 Installation. Water heaters shall be installed in
accordance with this chapter and Chapters 20 and 24.
P2801.3 Location. Water heaters and storage tanks shall be
installed in accordance with Section M1305 and shall be
located and connected to provide access for observation,
maintenance, servicing and replacement.
P2801.4 Prohibited locations. Water heaters shall be located
in accordance with Chapter 20.
P2801.5 Required pan. Where a storage tank-type water
heater or a hot water storage tank is installed in a location
where water leakage from the tank will cause damage, the
tank shall be installed in a galvanized steel pan having a
material thickness of not less than 0.0236 inch (0.6010 mm)
(No. 24 gage), or other pans approved for such use. Listed
pans shall comply with CSA LC3.
P2801.5.1 Pan size and drain. The pan shall be not less
than 1 7 2 inches (38 mm) deep and shall be of sufficient
size and shape to receive all dripping or condensate from
the tank or water heater. The pan shall be drained by an
indirect waste pipe of not less than 3 / 4 inch (19 mm) diam-
eter. Piping for safety pan drains shall be of those materi-
als listed in Table P2905.5.
P280 1.5.2 Pan drain termination. The pan drain shall
extend full-size and terminate over a suitably located indi-
rect waste receptor or shall extend to the exterior of the
building and terminate not less than 6 inches (152 mm)
and not more than 24 inches (610 mm) above the adjacent
ground surface.
P2801.6 Water heaters installed in garages. Water heaters
having an ignition source shall be elevated such that the
source of ignition is not less than 18 inches (457 ram) above
the garage floor.
Exception: Elevation of the ignition source is not required
for appliances that are listed as flammable vapor ignition-
resistant.
P2801.7 Water heater seismic bracing. In Seismic Design
Categories D , D, and D 2 and townhouses in Seismic Design
Category C, water heaters shall be anchored or strapped in the
upper one-third and in the lower one-third of the appliance to
resist a horizontal force equal to one-third of the operating
weight of the water heater, acting in any horizontal direction,
or in accordance with the appliance manufacturer's recom-
mendations.
SECTION P2802
WATER HEATERS USED FOR SPACE HEATING
P2802.1 Protection of potable water. Piping and compo-
nents connected to a water heater for space heating applica-
tions shall be suitable for use with potable water in
accordance with Chapter 29. Water heaters that will be used
to supply potable water shall not be connected to a heating
system or components previously used with nonpotable-
water heating appliances. Chemicals for boiler treatment
shall not be introduced into the water heater.
P2802.2 Temperature control. Where a combination water
heater-space heating system requires water for space heating
at temperatures exceeding 140°F (60°C), a master thermo-
static mixing valve complying with ASSE 1017 shall be
installed to temper the water to a temperature of not greater
than HOT (60°C) for domestic uses.
SECTION P2803
RELIEF VALVES
P2803.1 Relief valves required. Appliances and equipment
used for heating water or storing hot water shall be protected
by:
1 . A separate pressure-relief valve and a separate temper-
ature-relief valve; or
2. A combination pressure- and temperature-relief valve.
P2803.2 Rating. Relief valves shall have a minimum rated
capacity for the equipment served and shall conform to ANSI
Z21.22.
P2803.3 Pressure-relief valves. Pressure-relief valves shall
have a relief rating adequate to meet the pressure conditions
for the appliances or equipment protected. In tanks, they shall
be installed directly into a tank tapping or in a water line
close to the tank. They shall be set to open at not less than 25
psi (172 kPa) above the system pressure but not over 150 psi
(1034 kPa). The relief-valve setting shall not exceed the tanks
rated working pressure.
P2803.4 Temperature-relief valves. Temperature-relief
valves shall have a relief rating compatible with the tempera-
ture conditions of the appliances or equipment protected. The
valves shall be installed such that the temperature-sensing
element monitors the water within the top 6 inches (152 mm)
of the tank. The valve shall be set to open at a temperature of
not greater than 210°F (99°C).
P2803.5 Combination pressure-/temperature-relief valves.
Combination pressure-/temperature-relief valves shall comply
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
625
WATER HEATERS
with all the requirements for separate pressure- and tempera-
ture-relief valves.
P2803.6 Installation of relief valves. A check or shutoff
valve shall not be installed in the following locations:
1. Between a relief valve and the termination point of the
relief valve discharge pipe;
2. Between a relief valve and a tank; or
3. Between a relief valve and heating appliances or equip-
ment.
P2803.6.1 Requirements for discharge pipe. The dis-
charge piping serving a pressure-relief valve, temperature-
relief valve or combination valve shall:
1. Not be directly connected to the drainage system.
2. Discharge through an air gap located in the same
room as the water heater.
3. Not be smaller than the diameter of the outlet of
the valve served and shall discharge full size to the
air gap.
4. Serve a single relief device and shall not connect to
piping serving any other relief device or equip-
ment.
5. Discharge to the floor, to the pan serving the water
heater or storage tank, to a waste receptor or to the
outdoors.
6. Discharge in a manner that does not cause personal
injury or structural damage.
7. Discharge to a termination point that is readily
observable by the building occupants.
8. Not be trapped.
9. Be installed to flow by gravity.
10. Not terminate more than 6 inches (152 mm) above
the floor or waste receptor.
1 1 . Not have a threaded connection at the end of the
piping.
1 2. Not have valves or tee fittings.
13. Be constructed of those materials listed in Section
P2904.5 or materials tested, rated and approved for
such use in accordance with ASME All 2.4.1.
P2803.7 Vacuum-relief valve. Bottom fed tank-type water
heaters and bottom fed tanks connected to water heaters shall
have a vacuum-relief valve installed that complies with ANSI
Z21.22.
626
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 29
rATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
SECTION P2901
GENERAL
P2901.1 Potable water required. Dwelling units shall be
supplied with potable water in the amounts and pressures
specified in this chapter. Where a nonpotable water-distribu-
tion system is installed, the nonpotable system shall be identi-
fied by color marking, metal tags or other appropriate
method. Where color is used for marking, purple shall be
used to identify municipally reclaimed water, rainwater and
graywater distribution systems. Nonpotable outlets that could
inadvertently be used for drinking or domestic purposes shall
be posted.
SECTION P2902
PROTECTION OF POTABLE WATER SUPPLY
P2902.1 General. A potable water supply system shall be
designed and installed as to prevent contamination from non-
potable liquids, solids or gases being introduced into the pota-
ble water supply. Connections shall not be made to a potable
water supply in a manner that could contaminate the water
supply or provide a cross-connection between the supply and
a source of contamination except where approved methods
are installed to protect the potable water supply. Cross-con-
nections between an individual water supply and a potable
public water supply shall be prohibited.
P2902.2 Plumbing fixtures. The supply lines and fittings for
every plumbing fixture shall be installed so as to prevent
backflow. Plumbing fixture fittings shall provide backflow
protection in accordance with ASME A112.18.1/CSA
B125.1.
P2902.3 Backflow protection. A means of protection against
backflow shall be provided in accordance with Sections
P2902.3.1 through P2902.3.6. Backflow prevention applica-
tions shall conform to Table P2902.3, except as specifically
stated in Sections P2902.4 through P2902.5.5.
P2902.3.1 Air gaps. Air gaps shall comply with ASME
A112.1.2 and air gap fittings shall comply with ASME
Al 12.1.3. The minimum air gap shall be measured verti-
cally from the lowest end of a water supply outlet to the
flood level rim of the fixture or receptor into which such
potable water outlets discharge. The minimum required air
gap shall be twice the diameter of the effective opening of
the outlet, but in no case less than the values specified in
Table P2902.3.1. An air gap is required at the discharge
point of a relief valve or piping. Air gap devices shall be
incorporated in dishwashing and clothes washing appli-
ances.
P2902.3.2 Atmospheric-type vacuum breakers. Pipe-
applied atmospheric-type vacuum breakers shall conform
to ASSE 1001 or CSA B64.1.1. Hose-connection vacuum
breakers shall conform to ASSE 101 1, ASSE 1019, ASSE
1035, ASSE 1052, CSA B64.2, CSA B64.2.1, CSA
B64.2.1.1, CSA B64.2.2 or CSA B64.7. These devices
shall operate under normal atmospheric pressure when the
critical level is installed at the required height.
P2902.3.3 Backflow preventer with intermediate atmo-
spheric vent. Backflow preventers with intermediate
atmospheric vents shall conform to ASSE 1012 or CAN/
CSA B64.3. These devices shall be permitted to be
installed where subject to continuous pressure conditions.
The relief opening shall discharge by air gap and shall be
prevented from being submerged.
P2902.3.4 Pressure vacuum breaker assemblies. Pres-
sure vacuum breaker assemblies shall conform to ASSE
1020 or CSA B64.1.2. Spill-resistant vacuum breaker
assemblies shall comply with ASSE 1056. These assem-
blies are designed for installation under continuous pres-
sure conditions where the critical level is installed at the
required height. Pressure vacuum breaker assemblies shall
not be installed in locations where spillage could cause
damage to the structure.
TABLE P2902.3.1
MINIMUM AIR GAPS
FIXTURE
MINIMUM AIR GAP
Away from a wall"
(inches)
Close to a wall
(inches)
Effective openings greater than 1 inch
Two times the diameter of the
effective opening
Three times the diameter of the
effective opening
Lavatories and other fixtures with effective opening not
greater than V 2 inch in diameter
1
1.5
Over-rim bath fillers and other fixtures with effective
openings not greater than 1 inch in diameter
2
3
Sink, laundry trays, gooseneck back faucets and other fix-
tures with effective openings not greater than 3 / 4 inch in
diameter
1.5
2.5
For SI: 1 inch = 25 .4 mm.
a. Applicable where walls or obstructions are spaced from the nearest inside edge of the spout opening a distance greater than three times the diameter of the
effective opening for a single wall, or a distance greater than four times the diameter of the effective opening for two intersecting walls.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
627
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
TABLE P2902.3
APPLICATION FOR BACKFLOW PREVENTERS
DEVICE
DEGREE OF HAZARD 8
APPLICATION"
APPLICABLE
STANDARDS
Air gap
High or low hazard
Backsiphonage or backpressure
ASMEA1 12.1.2
Air gap fittings for use with plumbing fixtures,
appliances and appurtenances
High or low hazard
Backsiphonage or backpressure
ASMEA112.1.3
Antisiphon-type fill valves for gravity water closet
flush tanks
High hazard
Backsiphonage only
ASSE 1002, CSA B125.3
Backflow preventer with intermediate atmo-
spheric vents
Low hazard
Backpressure or backsiphonage
Sizes '//' - 3 / 4 "
ASSE 1012, CSA B64.3
Double check backflow prevention assembly and
double check fire protection backflow prevention
assembly
Low hazard
Backpressure or backsiphonage
Sizes V s " - 16"
ASSE 1015,AWWAC510,
CSAB64.5,CSAB64.5.1
Double check detector fire protection backflow
prevention assemblies
Low hazard
Backpressure or backsiphonage
(Fire sprinkler systems)
Sizes 2" -16"
ASSE 1048
Dual-check-valve-type backflow preventer
Low hazard
Backpressure or backsiphonage
Sizes V 4 "-l"
ASSE 1024, CSA B64.6
Hose-connection backflow preventer
High or low hazard
Low head backpressure, rated
working pressure backpressure or
backsiphonage Sizes '/," - 1"
ASSE 1 052, CSA B64.2. 1.1
Hose-connection vacuum breaker
High or low hazard
Low head backpressure or backsi-
phonage Sizes '//', V 4 ", 1"
ASSE 1011, CSA B64.2,
CSAB64.2.1
Laboratory faucet backflow preventer
High or low hazard
Low head backpressure and back-
siphonage
ASSE 1035, CSAB64.7
Pipe-applied atmospheric-type vacuum breaker
High or low hazard
Backsiphonage only Sizes 7 4 "-4"
ASSE 1001, CSA B64.1.1
Pressure vacuum breaker assembly
High or low hazard
Backsiphonage only Sizes V 2 "-2"
ASSE 1020, CSAB64.1.2
Reduced pressure detector fire protection back-
flow prevention assemblies
High or low hazard
Backsiphonage or backpressure
(Fire sprinkler systems)
ASSE 1047
Reduced pressure principle backflow prevention
assembly and reduced pressure principle fire pro-
tection backflow prevention assembly
High or low hazard
Backpressure or backsiphonage
Sizes %"- 16"
ASSE 1013, AWWA C511,
CSAB64.4,CSAB64.4.1
Spill-resistant pressure vacuum breaker
High or low hazard
Backsiphonage only Sizes '//'- 2"
ASSE 1056, CSAB64.1.3
Vacuum breaker wall hydrants, frost-resistant,
automatic-draining type
High or low hazard
Low head backpressure or backsi-
phonage Sizes V 4 "- 1"
ASSE 1019, CSAB64.2.2
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Low hazard— See Pollution (Section R202). High hazard— See Contamination (Section R202).
b. See Backpressure (Section R202). See Backpressure, Low Head (Section R202). See Backsiphonage (Section R202).
P2902.3.5 Reduced pressure principle backflow preven-
tion assemblies. Reduced pressure principle backflow pre-
vention assemblies and reduced pressure principle fire
protection backflow prevention assemblies shall conform to
ASSE 1013, AWWA C511, CSA B64.4 or CSA B64.4.1.
Reduced pressure detector fire protection backflow preven-
tion assemblies shall conform to ASSE 1047. These devices
shall be permitted to be installed where subject to continuous
pressure conditions. The relief opening shall discharge by air
gap and shall be prevented from being submerged.
P2902.3.6 Double check-valve assemblies. Double
check-valve assemblies shall conform to ASSE 1015.
CSA B64.5, CSA B64.5.1 or AWWA C510. Double-
detector check-valve assemblies shall conform to ASSE
1048. These devices shall be capable of operating under
continuous pressure conditions.
P2902.4 Protection of potable water outlets. Potable water
openings and outlets shall be protected by an air gap, reduced
pressure principle backflow preventer with atmospheric vent,
atmospheric-type vacuum breaker, pressure-type vacuum
breaker or hose connection backflow preventer.
P2902.4.1 Fill valves. Flush tanks shall be equipped with
an antisiphon fill valve conforming to ASSE 1002 or CSA
B125.3. The fill valve backflow preventer shall be located
not less than 1 inch (25 mm) above the full opening of the
overflow pipe.
P2902.4.2 Deck-mounted and integral vacuum break-
ers. Approved deck-mounted or equipment-mounted vac-
uum breakers and faucets with integral atmospheric
vacuum breakers or spill-resistant vacuum breaker assem-
blies shall be installed in accordance with the manufac-
turer's instructions and the requirements for labeling. The
628
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
critical level of the breakers and assemblies shall be
located at not less than 1 inch (25 mm) above the flood
level rim.
P2902.4.3 Hose connection. Sillcocks, hose bibbs, wall
hydrants and other openings with a hose connection shall
be protected by an atmospheric-type or pressure-type vac-
uum breaker or a permanently attached hose connection
vacuum breaker.
Exceptions:
1. This section shall not apply to water heater and
boiler drain valves that are provided with hose
connection threads and that are intended only for
tank or vessel draining.
2. This section shall not apply to water supply
valves intended for connection of clothes wash-
ing machines where backflow prevention is oth-
erwise provided or is integral with the machine.
P2902.5 Protection of potable water connections. Connec-
tions to the potable water shall conform to Sections
P2902.5.1 through P2902.5. 5.
P2902.5.1 Connections to boilers. The potable supply to
the boiler shall be equipped with a backflow preventer
with an intermediate atmospheric vent complying with
ASSE 1012 or CSA B64.3. Where conditioning chemicals
are introduced into the system, the potable water connec-
tion shall be protected by an air gap or a reduced pressure
principle backflow preventer complying with ASSE 1013,
CSA B64.4 or AWWA C5 1 1 .
P2902.5.2 Heat exchangers. Heat exchangers using an
essentially toxic transfer fluid shall be separated from the
potable water by double-wall construction. An air gap
open to the atmosphere shall be provided between the two
walls. Heat exchangers utilizing an essentially nontoxic
transfer fluid shall be permitted to be of single-wall con-
struction.
P2902.5.3 Lawn irrigation systems. The potable water
supply to lawn irrigation systems shall be protected
against backflow by an atmospheric vacuum breaker, a
pressure vacuum breaker assembly or a reduced pressure
principle backflow prevention assembly. Valves shall not
be installed downstream from an atmospheric vacuum
breaker. Where chemicals are introduced into the system,
the potable water supply shall be protected against back-
flow by a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention
assembly.
P2902.5.4 Connections to automatic fire sprinkler sys-
tems. The potable water supply to automatic fire sprinkler
shall be protected against backflow by a double check
backflow prevention assembly, a double check fire protec-
tion backflow prevention assembly, a reduced pressure
principle backflow prevention assembly or a reduced pres-
sure principle fire protection backflow prevention assem-
bly.
Exception: Where systems are installed as a portion of
the water distribution system in accordance with the
requirements of this code and are not provided with a
fire department connection, backflow protection for the j
water supply system shall not be required.
P2902.5.4.1 Additives or nonpotable source. Where
systems contain chemical additives or antifreeze, or
where systems are connected to a nonpotable secondary
water supply, the potable water supply shall be pro-
tected against backflow by a reduced pressure principle 1
backflow prevention assembly or a reduced pressure 1
principle fire protection backflow prevention assembly. |
Where chemical additives or antifreeze is added to only
a portion of an automatic fire sprinkler or standpipe
system, the reduced pressure principle fire protection g
backflow preventer shall be permitted to be located so
as to isolate that portion of the system.
P2902.5.5 Solar systems. The potable water supply to a
solar system shall be equipped with a backflow preventer
with intermediate atmospheric vent complying with ASSE
1012 or a reduced pressure principle backflow preventer
complying with ASSE 1013. Where chemicals are used,
the potable water supply shall be protected by a reduced
pressure principle backflow preventer.
Exception: Where all solar system piping is a part of
the potable water distribution system, in accordance
with the requirements of the International Plumbing
Code, and all components of the piping system are
listed for potable water use, cross-connection protec-
tion measures shall not be required.
P2902.6 Location of backflow preventers. Access shall be
provided to backflow preventers as specified by the manufac-
turer's installation instructions.
P2902.6.1 Outdoor enclosures for backflow prevention
devices. Outdoor enclosures for backflow prevention
devices shall comply with ASSE 1060.
P2902.6.2 Protection of backflow preventers. Backflow
preventers shall not be located in areas subject to freezing
except where they can be removed by means of unions, or
are protected by heat, insulation or both.
P2902.6.3 Relief port piping. The termination of the pip-
ing from the relief port or air gap fitting of the backflow
preventer shall discharge to an approved indirect waste
receptor or to the outdoors where it will not cause damage
or create a nuisance.
SECTION P2903
WATER-SUPPLY SYSTEM
P2903.1 Water supply system design criteria. The water
service and water distribution systems shall be designed and
pipe sizes shall be selected such that under conditions of peak
demand, the capacities at the point of outlet discharge shall
not be less than shown in Table P2903. 1 .
P2903.2 Maximum flow and water consumption. The
maximum water consumption flow rates and quantities for all
plumbing fixtures and fixture fittings shall be in accordance
with Table P2903. 2.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
629
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
TABLE P2903.1
REQUIRED CAPACITIES AT POINT OF OUTLET DISCHARGE
FIXTURE AT POINT OF OUTLET
FLOW RATE
(gpm)
FLOW
PRESSURE
(psi)
Bathtub, pressure-balanced or
thermostatic mixing valve
4
20
Bidet, thermostatic mixing
•y
20
Dishwasher
2.75
8
Laundry tub
4
8
Lavatory
2
8
Shower, pressure-balancing or
thermostatic mixing valve
3
20
Sillcock, hose bibb
5
8
Sink
2.5
8
Water closet, flushometer tank
1.6
20
Water closet, tank, close coupled
3
20
Water closet, tank, one-piece
6
20
For SI: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m,
I pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
TABLE P2903.2
MAXIMUM FLOW RATES AND CONSUMPTION FOR PLUMBING
FIXTURES AND FIXTURE FITTINGS"
PLUMBING FIXTURE
OR FIXTURE FITTING
PLUMBING FIXTURE
OR FIXTURE FITTING
Lavatory faucet
2.2 gpm at 60 psi
Shower head"
2.5 gpm at 80 psi
Sink faucet
2.2 gpm at 60 psi
Water closet
1 .6 gallons per flushing cycle
For SI: I gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m,
1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
a. A handheld shower spray is also a shower head.
b. Consumption tolerances shall be determined from referenced standards.
P2903.3 Minimum pressure. The static water pressure (as
determined by the local water authority) at the building
entrance for either public or private water service shall be not
less than 40 psi (276 kPa).
P2903.3.1 Maximum pressure. The static water pressure
shall be not greater than 80 psi (551 kPa). When main
pressure exceeds 80 psi (551 kPa), an approved pressure-
reducing valve conforming to ASSE 1003 or CSA B356
shall be installed on the domestic water branch main or
riser at the connection to the water-service pipe.
P2903.4 Thermal expansion control. A means for control-
ling increased pressure caused by thermal expansion shall be
installed where required in accordance with Sections
P2903.4.1 and P2903.4.2.
P2903.4.1 Pressure-reducing valve. For water service
system sizes up to and including 2 inches (51 mm), a
device for controlling pressure shall be installed where,
because of thermal expansion, the pressure on the down-
stream side of a pressure-reducing valve exceeds the pres-
sure-reducing valve setting.
P2903.4.2 Backflow prevention device or check valve.
Where a backflow prevention device, check valve or other
device is installed on a water supply system using storage
water heating equipment such that thermal expansion
causes an increase in pressure, a device for controlling
pressure shall be installed.
P2903.5 Water hammer. The flow velocity of the water dis-
tribution system shall be controlled to reduce the possibility
of water hammer. Water-hammer arrestors shall be installed
in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions. Water hammer arrestors shall conform to ASSE 1010.
P2903.6 Determining water-supply fixture units. Supply
loads in the building water-distribution system shall be deter-
mined by total load on the pipe being sized, in terms of water-
supply fixture units (w.s.f.u.), as shown in Table P2903.6,
and gallon per minute (gpm) flow rates [see Table
P2903.6(l)]. For fixtures not listed, choose a w.s.f.u. value of
a fixture with similar flow characteristics.
P2903.7 Size of water-service mains, branch mains and
risers. The size of the water service pipe shall be not less than
3 / 4 inch (19 mm) diameter. The size of water service mains,
branch mains and risers shall be determined according to
water supply demand [gpm (L/m)], available water pressure
[psi (kPa)] and friction loss caused by the water meter and
developed length of pipe [feet (m)], including equivalent
length of fittings. The size of each water distribution system
shall be determined according to design methods conforming
to acceptable engineering practice, such as those methods in
Appendix P and shall be approved by the code official.
P2903.8 Gridded and parallel water distribution system
manifolds. Hot water and cold water manifolds installed with
gridded or parallel -connected individual distribution lines to
each fixture or fixture fittings shall be designed in accordance
with Sections P2903.8.1 through P2903.8.6.
P2903.8.1 Sizing of manifolds. Manifolds shall be sized
in accordance with Table P2903.8.1. Total gallons per
minute is the demand for all outlets.
TABLE P2903.8.1
MANIFOLD SIZING
PLASTIC
METALLIC
Nominal Size ID
(inches)
Maximum"
gpm
Nominal Size ID
(inches)
Maximum'
gpm
%
17
%
11
1
29
1
20
1%
46
i'/ 4
31
'%
66
17,
44
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m,
1 foot per second = 0.3048 m/s.
Note: See Table P2903.6(l) for w.s.f.u and Table 2903.6(1) for gallon-per-
minute (gpm) flow rates,
a. Based on velocity limitation: plastic-12 fps; metal-8 fps.
630
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
TABLE P2903.6
WATER-SUPPLY FIXTURE-UNIT VALUES FOR VARIOUS PLUMBING FIXTURES AND FIXTURE GROUPS
TYPE OF FIXTURES OR GROUP OF FIXTURES
Bathtub (with/without overhead shower head)
Clothes washer
Dishwasher
Full-bath group with bathtub (with/without shower head) or shower stall
Half-bath group (water closet and lavatory)
Hose bibb (sillcock)"
Kitchen group (dishwasher and sink with/without garbage grinder)
Kitchen sink
Laundry group (clothes washer standpipe and laundry tub)
Laundry tub
Lavatory
Shower stall
Water closet (tank type)
WATER-SUPPLY FIXTURE-UNIT VALUE (w.s.f.u.)
Hot
1.0
1.0
1.4
1.5
0.5
1.9
1.0
1.8
0.5
1.0
Cold
1 .0
1.0
2.7
2.5
2.5
1.8
0.5
1.0
2.2
Combined
1.4
1.4
1.4
3.6
2.6
2.5
2.5
1.4
2.5
1.4
0.7
1.4
2.2
For SI: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m.
a. The fixture unit value 2.5 assumes a flow demand of 2.5 gpm, such as for an individual lawn sprinkler device. If a hose bibb/sill cock will be required to
furnish a greater flow, the equivalent fixture-unit value may be obtained from this table or Table P2903.6(l).
TABLE P2903.6(1)
CONVERSIONS FROM WATER SUPPLY FIXTURE UNIT TO GALLON PER MINUTE FLOW RATES
SUPPLY SYSTEMS PREDOMINANTLY FOR FLUSH TANKS
SUPPLY SYSTEMS PREDOMINANTLY FOR FLUSHOMETER VALVES
Load
Demand
Load
Demand
(Water supply fixture units)
(Gallons per minute)
(Cubic feet per
minute)
(Water supply fixture
units)
(Gallons per minute)
(Cubic feet per minute)
1
3.0
0.04104
—
—
—
2
5.0
0.0684
—
—
—
3
6.5
0.86892
—
—
—
4
8.0
1.06944
—
—
—
5
9.4
1.256592
5
15.0
2.0052
6
10.7
1.430376
6
17.4
2.326032
7
11.8
1.577424
7
19.8
2.646364
8
12.8
1.711104
8
22.2
2.967696
9
13.7
1.831416
9
24.6
3.288528
10
14.6
1.951728
10
27.0
3.60936
11
15.4
2.058672
11
27.8
3.716304
12
16.0
2.13888
12
28.6
3.823248
13
16.5
2.20572
13
29.4
3.930192
14
17.0
2.27256
14
30.2
4.037136
15
17.5
2.3394
15
31.0
4.14408
16
18.0
2.90624
16
31.8
4.241024
17
18.4
2.459712
17
32.6
4.357968
18
18.8
2.513184
18
33.4
4.464912
19
19.2
2.566656
19
34.2
4.571856
20
19.6
2.620128
20
35.0
4.6788
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
631
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
TABLE P2903.6(1)— continued
CONVERSIONS FROM WATER SUPPLY FIXTURE UNIT TO GALLON PER MINUTE FLOW RATES
SUPPLY SYSTEMS PREDOMINANTLY FOR FLUSH TANKS
SUPPLY SYSTEMS PREDOMINANTLY FOR FLUSHOMETER VALVES
Load
Demand
Load
Demand
(Water supply fixture units)
(Gallons per minute)
(Cubic feet per
minute)
(Water supply fixture
units)
(Gallons per minute)
(Cubic feet per minute)
25
21.5
2.87412
25
38.0
5.07984
30
23.3
3.114744
30
42.0
5.61356
35
24.9
3.328632
35
44.0
5.88192
40
26.3
3.515784
40
46.0
6.14928
45
27.7
3.702936
45
48.0
6.41664
50
29.1
3.890088
50
50.0
6.684
For SI: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m, 1 cubic foot per minute = 0.4719 L/s.
P2903.8.2 Minimum size. Where the developed length of
the distribution line is 60 feet (1 8 288 mm) or less, and the
available pressure at the meter is not less than 40 pounds
per square inch (276 kPa), the size of individual distribu-
tion lines shall be not less than 3 / g inch (10 mm) diameter.
Certain fixtures such as one-piece water closets and whirl-
pool bathtubs shall require a larger size where specified by
the manufacturer. If a water heater is fed from the end of a
cold water manifold, the manifold shall be one size larger
than the water heater feed.
P2903.8.3 Orientation. Manifolds shall be permitted to
be installed in a horizontal or vertical position.
P2903.8.4 Support and protection. Plastic piping bun-
dles shall be secured in accordance with the manufac-
turer's instructions and supported in accordance with
Section P2605. Bundles that have a change in direction
equal to or greater than 45 degrees (0.79 rad) shall be pro-
tected from chafing at the point of contact with framing
members by sleeving or wrapping.
P2903.8.5 Vaiving. Fixture valves, when installed, shall
be located either at the fixture or at the manifold. If valves
are installed at the manifold, they shall be labeled indicat-
ing the fixture served.
P2903.8.6 Hose bibb bleed. A readily accessible air bleed
shall be installed in hose bibb supplies at the manifold or
at the hose bibb exit point.
P2903.9 Valves. Valves shall be installed in accordance with
Sections P2903.9.1 through P2903.9.5.
P2903.9.1 Service valve. Each dwelling unit shall be pro-
vided with an accessible main shutoff valve near the
entrance of the water service. The valve shall be of a full-
open type having nominal restriction to flow, with provi-
sion for drainage such as a bleed orifice or installation of a
separate drain valve. Additionally, the water service shall
| be valved at the curb or lot line in accordance with local
requirements.
P2903.9.2 Water heater valve. A readily accessible full-
open valve shall be installed in the cold-water supply pipe
to each water heater at or near the water heater.
P2903.9.3 Fixture valves and access. Valves serving
individual fixtures, appliances, risers and branches shall
be provided with access. An individual shutoff valve shall
be required on the fixture supply pipe to each plumbing
fixture other than bathtubs and showers.
P2903.9.4 Valve requirements. Valves shall be of an
approved type and compatible with the type of piping
material installed in the system. Ball valves, gate valves,
globe valves and plug valves intended to supply drinking
water shall meet the requirements of NSF 61.
P2903.9.5 Valves and outlets prohibited below grade.
Potable water outlets and combination stop-and-waste
valves shall not be installed underground or below grade.
Freezeproof yard hydrants that drain the riser into the
ground are considered to be stop-and- waste valves.
Exception: Installation of freezeproof yard hydrants
that drain the riser into the ground shall be permitted if
the potable water supply to such hydrants is protected
upstream of the hydrants in accordance with Section
P2902 and the hydrants are permanently identified as
nonpotable outlets by approved signage that reads as
follows: "Caution, Nonpotable Water. Do Not Drink."
P2903.10 Hose bibb. Hose bibbs subject to freezing, includ-
ing the "frostproof type, shall be equipped with an accessi-
ble stop-and-waste-type valve inside the building so that they
can be controlled and drained during cold periods.
Exception: Frostproof hose bibbs installed such that the
stem extends through the building insulation into an open
heated or semiconditioned space need not be separately
valved (see Figure P2903.10).
SECTION P2904
DWELLING UNIT FSRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
P2904.1 General. The design and installation of residential
fire sprinkler systems shall be in accordance with NFPA 13D
or Section P2904, which shall be considered equivalent to
NFPA 13D. Partial residential sprinkler systems shall be per-
mitted to be installed only in buildings not required to be
equipped with a residential sprinkler system. Section P2904
shall apply to stand-alone and multipurpose wet-pipe sprin-
kler systems that do not include the use of antifreeze. A mul-
tipurpose fire sprinkler system shall provide domestic water
to both fire sprinklers and plumbing fixtures. A stand-alone
632
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
sprinkler system shall be separate and independent from the
water distribution system. A backflow preventer shall not be
required to separate a stand-alone sprinkler system from the
water distribution system.
P2904.1.1 Required sprinkler locations. Sprinklers shall
be installed to protect all areas of a dwelling unit.
Exceptions:
1. Attics, crawl spaces and normally unoccupied
concealed spaces that do not contain fuel-fired
appliances do not require sprinklers. In attics,
crawl spaces and normally unoccupied concealed
spaces that contain fuel-fired equipment, a sprin-
kler shall be installed above the equipment; how-
ever, sprinklers shall not be required in the
remainder of the space.
2. Clothes closets, linen closets and pantries not
exceeding 24 square feet (2.2 m 2 ) in area, with
the smallest dimension not greater than 3 feet
(915 mm) and having wall and ceiling surfaces of
gypsum board.
3. Bathrooms not more than 55 square feet (5.1 m 2 )
in area.
4. Garages; carports; exterior porches; unheated
entry areas, such as mud rooms, that are adjacent
to an exterior door; and similar areas.
P2904.2 Sprinklers. Sprinklers shall be new listed residen-
tial sprinklers and shall be installed in accordance with the
sprinkler manufacturer's installation instructions.
P2904.2.1 Temperature rating and separation from
heat sources. Except as provided for in Section
P2904.2.2, sprinklers shall have a temperature rating of
not less than 135°F (57°C) and not more than 170°F
(77°C). Sprinklers shall be separated from heat sources as
required by the sprinkler manufacturer's installation
instructions.
P2904.2.2 Intermediate temperature sprinklers. Sprin-
klers shall have an intermediate temperature rating not less
than 175°F (79°C) and not more than 225°F (107°C)
where installed in the following locations:
1. Directly under skylights, where the sprinkler is
exposed to direct sunlight.
2. In attics.
3. In concealed spaces located directly beneath a roof.
4. Within the distance to a heat source as specified in
Table P2904.2.2
P2904.2.3 Freezing areas. Piping shall be protected from
freezing as required by Section P2603.6. Where sprinklers
are required in areas that are subject to freezing, dry-side-
wall or dry-pendent sprinklers extending from a nonfreez-
ing area into a freezing area shall be installed.
P2904.2.4 Sprinkler coverage. Sprinkler coverage
requirements and sprinkler obstruction requirements shall
be in accordance with Sections P2904.2.4.1 and
P2904.2.4.2.
P2904.2.4.1 Coverage area limit. The area of cover-
age of a single sprinkler shall not exceed 400 square
feet (37 m 2 ) and shall be based on the sprinkler listing
and the sprinkler manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions.
P2904.2.4.2 Obstructions to coverage. Sprinkler dis-
charge shall not be blocked by obstructions unless addi-
tional sprinklers are installed to protect the obstructed
area. Additional sprinklers shall not be required where
the sprinkler separation from obstructions complies
with either the minimum distance indicated in Figure
P2904.2.4.2 or the minimum distances specified in the
sprinkler manufacturer's instructions where the manu-
facturer's instructions permit a lesser distance.
INSULATED
FRAME WALL
FREEZE-PROOF
SILL FAUCET
FOUNDATION WALL
\
HEATED BASEMENT
FIGURE P2903.10
TYPICAL FROSTPROOF HOSE BIBB INSTALLATION NOT REQUIRING SEPARATE VALUE
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
633
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
PENDANT SPRINKLER TO SIDE OBSTRUCTION
R
OBSTRUCTION
CEILING
WHERE A IS
LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO:
(INCHES)
WHERE A IS
LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO:
(FEET)
1
VA
VA
VA
11
6V 2
14
SIDEWALL SPRINKLER TO SIDE OBSTRUCTION
III OBSTRUCTION
/
I
/
e A
WHERE A IS
LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO:
(INCHES)
WHERE A IS
LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO:
(FEET)
1
VA
3
3
5
4
7
4/2
9
6
11
6/2
14
7
SIDEWALL SPRINKLER TO FORWARD OB!
OBSTRUCTION |)(] \f\ [)(
3TRUCTION
\
A,
CEILING
4 — &ts{
1
H
WHERE A IS
LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO:
(INCHES)
WHERE A IS
LESS THAN OR EQUAL TO:
(FEET)
1
8
2
10
3
11
4
12
6
13
7
14
9
15
11
16
14
17
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE P2904.2.4.2
MINIMUM ALLOWABLE DISTANCE BETWEEN SPRINKLER AND OBSTRUCTION
634
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 6
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
TABLE P2904.2.2
LOCATIONS WHERE INTERMEDIATE TEMPERATURE SPRINKLERS ARE REQUIRED
HEAT SOURCE
RANGE OF DISTANCE FROM HEAT SOURCE WITHIN WHICH
INTERMEDIATE TEMPERATURE SPRINKLERS ARE REQUIRED 3 ' b (inches)
Fireplace, side of open or recessed fireplace
12 to 36
Fireplace, front of recessed fireplace
36 to 60
Coal and wood burning stove
12 to 42
Kitchen range top
9 to 18
Oven
9 to 18
Vent connector or chimney connector
9 to 18
Heating duct, not insulated
9 to 18
Hot water pipe, not insulated
6 to 12
Side of ceiling or wall warm air register
12 to 24
Front of wall mounted warm air register
18 to 36
Water heater, furnace or boiler
3 to 6
Luminaire up to 250 watts
3 to 6
Luminaire 250 watts up to 499 watts
6 to 12
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Sprinklers shall not be located at distances less than the minimum table distance unless the sprinkler listing allows a lesser distance.
b. Distances shall be measured in a straight line from the nearest edge of the heat source to the nearest edge of the sprinkler.
P2904.2.4.2.1 Additional requirements for pen-
dent sprinklers. Pendent sprinklers within 3 feet
(915 mm) of the center of a ceiling fan, surface-
mounted ceiling luminaire or similar object shall be
considered to be obstructed, and additional sprin-
klers shall be installed.
P2904.2.4.2.2 Additional requirements for side-
wall sprinklers. Sidewall sprinklers within 5 feet
(1524 mm) of the center of a ceiling fan, surface-
mounted ceiling luminaire or similar object shall be
considered to be obstructed, and additional sprin-
klers shall be installed.
P2904.2.5 Sprinkler installation on systems assembled
with solvent cement. The solvent cementing of threaded
adapter fittings shall be completed and threaded adapters
for sprinklers shall be verified as being clear of excess
cement prior to the installation of sprinklers on systems
assembled with solvent cement.
P2904.2.6 Sprinkler modifications prohibited. Painting,
caulking or modifying of sprinklers shall be prohibited.
Sprinklers that have been painted, caulked, modified or
damaged shall be replaced with new sprinklers.
P2904.3 Sprinkler piping system. Sprinkler piping shall be
supported in accordance with the requirements for cold water
distribution piping. Sprinkler piping shall comply with all
requirements for cold water distribution piping. For multipur-
pose piping systems, the sprinkler piping shall connect to and
be a part of the cold water distribution piping system.
P2904.3.1 Nonmetallic pipe and tubing. Nonmetallic
pipe and tubing, such as CPVC, PEX, and PE-RT shall be
listed for use in residential fire sprinkler systems.
P2904.3.1.1 Nonmetallic pipe protection. Nonmetal-
lic pipe and tubing systems shall be protected from
exposure to the living space by a layer of not less than
V 8 -inch-thick (9.5 mm) gypsum wallboard, '^-inch-
thick (13 mm) plywood, or other material having a 15-
minute fire rating.
Exceptions:
1. Pipe protection shall not be required in areas
that do not require protection with sprinklers
as specified in Section P2904.1 .1.
2. Pipe protection shall not be required where
exposed piping is permitted by the pipe listing.
P2904.3.2 Shutoff valves prohibited. With the exception
of shutoff valves for the entire water distribution system,
valves shall not be installed in any location where the
valve would isolate piping serving one or more sprinklers.
P2904.3.3 Single dwelling limit. Piping beyond the ser-
vice valve located at the beginning of the water distribu-
tion system shall not serve more than one dwelling.
P2904.3.4 Drain. A means to drain the sprinkler system
shall be provided on the system side of the water distribu-
tion shutoff valve.
P2904.4 Determining system design flow. The flow for siz-
ing the sprinkler piping system shall be based on the flow rat-
ing of each sprinkler in accordance with Section P2904.4.1
and the calculation in accordance with Section P2904.4.2.
P2904.4.1 Determining required flow rate for each
sprinkler. The minimum required flow for each sprinkler
shall be determined using the sprinkler manufacturer's
published data for the specific sprinkler model based on all
of the following:
1 . The area of coverage.
2. The ceiling configuration.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
635
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
3. The temperature rating.
4. Any additional conditions specified by the sprinkler
manufacturer.
P2904.4.2 System design flow rate. The design flow rate
for the system shall be based on the following:
1 . The design flow rate for a room having only one
sprinkler shall be the flow rate required for that
sprinkler, as determined by Section P2904.4.1.
2. The design flow rate for a room having two or more
sprinklers a shall be determined by identifying the
sprinkler in that room with the highest required flow
rate, based on Section P2904.4.1, and multiplying
that flow rate by 2.
3. Where the sprinkler manufacturer specifies different
criteria for ceiling configurations that are not
smooth, flat and horizontal, the required flow rate
for that room shall comply with the sprinkler manu-
facturer's instructions.
4. The design flow rate for the sprinkler system shall
be the flow required by the room with the largest
flow rate, based on Items 1, 2 and 3.
5. For the purpose of this section, it shall be permissi-
ble to reduce the design flow rate for a room by sub-
dividing the space into two or more rooms, where
each room is evaluated separately with respect to the
required design flow rate. Each room shall be
bounded by walls and a ceiling. Openings in walls
shall have a lintel not less than 8 inches (203 mm) in
depth and each lintel shall form a solid barrier
between the ceiling and the top of the opening.
P2904.5 Water supply. The water supply shall provide not
less than the required design flow rate for sprinklers in accor-
dance with Section P2904.4.2 at a pressure not less than that
used to comply with Section P2904.6.
P2904.5.1 Water supply from individual sources.
Where a dwelling unit water supply is from a tank system,
a private well system or a combination of these, the avail-
able water supply shall be based on the minimum pressure
control setting for the pump.
P2904.5.2 Required capacity. The water supply shall
have the capacity to provide the required design flow rate
for sprinklers for a period of time as follows:
1 . Seven minutes for dwelling units one story in height
and less than 2,000 square feet (186 m 2 ) in area.
2. Ten minutes for dwelling units two or more stories
in height or equal to or greater than 2,000 square feet
( 1 86 m 2 ) in area.
Where a well system, a water supply tank system or a
combination thereof is used, any combination of well
capacity and tank storage shall be permitted to meet the
capacity requirement.
P2904.6 Pipe sizing. The piping to sprinklers shall be sized
for the flow required by Section P2904.4.2. The flow required
to supply the plumbing fixtures shall not be required to be
added to the sprinkler design flow.
P2904.6.1 Method of sizing pipe. Piping supplying sprin-
klers shall be sized using the prescriptive method in Sec-
tion P2904.6.2 or by hydraulic calculation in accordance
with NFPA 13D. The minimum pipe size from the water
supply source to any sprinkler shall be 3 / 4 inch (19 mm)
nominal. Threaded adapter fittings at the point where
sprinklers are attached to the piping shall be a minimum of
7 2 inch (13 mm) nominal.
P2904.6.2 Prescriptive pipe sizing method. Pipe shall be
sized by determining the available pressure to offset fric-
tion loss in piping and identifying a piping material, diam-
eter and length using the equation in Section P2904.6.2.1
and the procedure in Section P2904.6.2.2.
P2904.6.2.1 Available pressure equation. The pres-
sure available to offset friction loss in the interior pip-
ing system (P f ) shall be determined in accordance with
the Equation 29-1.
P, = Psu P - PL m - PL,,, - PL d - PL e - P sp (Equation 29-1)
where:
P, = Pressure used in applying Tables P2904.6.2(4)
through P2904.6.2(9).
P sup = Pressure available from the water supply
source.
PL SVC = Pressure loss in the water-service pipe.
PL m = Pressure loss in the water meter.
PL d = Pressure loss from devices other than the water
meter.
PL c - Pressure loss associated with changes in
elevation.
P sp = Maximum pressure required by a sprinkler.
P2904.6.2.2 Calculation procedure. Determination of
the required size for water distribution piping shall be
in accordance with the following procedure:
Step 1 — Determine P
Obtain the static supply pressure that will be available
from the water main from the water purveyor, or for an
individual source, the available supply pressure shall be
in accordance with Section P2904.5.1.
Step 2 — Determine PL SVC
Use Table P2904.6.2(l) to determine the pressure loss
in the water service pipe based on the selected size of
the water service.
Step 3 — Determine PL m
Use Table P2904.6.2(2) to determine the pressure loss
from the water meter, based on the selected water meter
size.
Step 4 — Determine PL d
Determine the pressure loss from devices other than the
water meter installed in the piping system supplying sprin-
klers, such as pressure-reducing valves, backflow preven-
ters, water softeners or water filters. Device pressure
losses shall be based on the device manufacturer's specifi-
cations. The flow rate used to determine pressure loss shall
636
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
be the rate from Section P2904.4.2, except that 5 gpm (0.3
L/s) shall be added where the device is installed in a
water-service pipe that supplies more than one dwelling.
As alternative to deducting pressure loss for a device, an
automatic bypass valve shall be installed to divert flow
around the device when a sprinkler activates.
Step 5 — Determine PL e
Use Table P2904.6.2(3) to determine the pressure loss
associated with changes in elevation. The elevation
used in applying the table shall be the difference
between the elevation where the water source pressure
was measured and the elevation of the highest sprin-
kler.
Step 6 — Determine P
Determine the maximum pressure required by any indi-
vidual sprinkler based on the flow rate from Section
P2904.4.1. The required pressure is provided in the
sprinkler manufacturer's published data for the specific
sprinkler model based on the selected flow rate.
Step 7— Calculate P,
Using Equation 29-1 , calculate the pressure available to
offset friction loss in water-distribution piping between
the service valve and the sprinklers.
Step 8 — Determine the maximum allowable pipe
length
Use Tables P2904.6.2(4) through P2904.6.2(9) to select
a material and size for water distribution piping. The
piping material and size shall be acceptable if the devel-
oped length of pipe between the service valve and the
most remote sprinkler does not exceed the maximum
allowable length specified by the applicable table.
Interpolation of P t between the tabular values shall be
permitted.
The maximum allowable length of piping in Tables
P2904.6.2(4) through P2904.6.2(9) incorporates an
adjustment for pipe fittings, and no additional consider-
ation of friction losses associated with pipe fittings
shall be required.
P2904.7 Instructions and signs. An owner's manual for the
fire sprinkler system shall be provided to the owner. A sign or
valve tag shall be installed at the main shutoff valve to the
water distribution system stating the following: "Warning,
the water system for this home supplies fire sprinklers that
require certain flows and pressures to fight a fire. Devices
that restrict the flow or decrease the pressure or automatically
shut off the water to the fire sprinkler system, such as water
softeners, filtration systems and automatic shutoff valves,
shall not be added to this system without a review of the fire
sprinkler system by a fire protection specialist. Do not
remove this sign."
TABLE P2904.6.2(1)
WATER SERVICE PRESSURE LOSS {PL s J ab
FLOW RATE'
(gpm)
%-INCH WATER SERVICE PRESSURE LOSS
(psi)
1-INCH WATER SERVICE PRESSURE LOSS
(psi)
17 4 -INCH WATER SERVICE PRESSURE
LOSS (psi)
Length of water service pipe (feet)
Length of water service pipe (feet)
Length of water service pipe (feet)
40 or
less
41 to 75
76 to 1 00
101 to 150
40 or less
41 to 75
76 to 100
101 to 150
40 or
less
41 to 75
76 to 100
101 to 150
8
5.1
8.7
11.8
17.4
1.5
2.5
3.4
5.1
0.6
l.O
1.3
1.9
10
7.7
13.1
17.8
26.3
2.3
3.8
5.2
7.7
0.8
1.4
2.0
2.9
12
10.8
18.4
24.9
NP
3.2
5.4
7.3
10.7
1.2
2.0
2.7
4.0
14
14.4
24.5
NP
NP
4.2
7.1
9.6
14.3
1.6
2.7
3.6
5.4
16
18.4
NP
NP
NP
5.4
9.1
12.4
18.3
2.0
3.4
4.7
6.9
18
22.9
NP
NP
NP
6.7
1 1 .4
15.4
22.7
2.5
4.3
5.8
8.6
20
27.8
NP
NP
NP
8.1
13.8
18.7
27.6
3.1
5.2
7.0
10.4
22
NP
NP
NP
NP
9.7
16.5
22.3
NP
3.7
6.2
8.4
12.4
24
NP
NP
NP
NP
11.4
19.3
26.2
NP
4.3
7.3
9.9
14.6
26
NP
NP
NP
NP
13.2
22.4
NP
NP
5.0
8.5
11.4
16.9
28
NP
NP
NP
NP
15.1
25.7
NP
NP
5.7
9.7
13.1
19.4
30
NP
NP
NP
NP
17.2
NP
NP
NP
6.5
11.0
14.9
22.0
32
NP
NP
NP
NP
19.4
NP
NP
NP
7.3
12.4
16.8
24.8
34
NP
NP
NP
NP
21.7
NP
NP
NP
8.2
13.9
18.8
NP
36
NP
NP
NP
NP
24.1
NP
NP
NP
9.1
15.4
20.9
NP
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 0.063 L/s, I pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
NP = Not permitted. Pressure loss exceeds reasonable limits.
a. Values are applicable for underground piping materials listed in Table P2905.4 and are based on an SDR of 1 1 and a Hazen Williams C Factor of 150.
b. Values include the following length allowances for fittings: 25% length increase for actual lengths up to 100 feet and 15% length increase for actual lengths
over 1 00 feet.
c. Flow rate from Section P2904.4.2. Add 5 gpm to the flow rate required by Section P2904.4.2 where the water-service pipe supplies more than one dwelling.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
637
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
TABLE P2904.6.2(2)
MINIMUM WATER METER PRESSURE LOSS (PL J
FLOW RATE
(gallons per minute, gpm) b
5 / 8 -INCH METER PRESSURE LOSS
(pounds per square inch, psi)
3 / 4 -INCH METER PRESSURE LESS
(pounds per square inch, psi)
1-INCH METER PRESSURE LOSS
(pounds per square inch, psi)
8
2
1
10
3
1
12
4
1
14
5
2
16
7
3
18
9
4
20
11
4
2
22
NP
5
2
24
NP
5
2
26
NP
6
2
28
NP
6
2
30
NP
7
2
32
NP
7
3
34
NP
8
3
36
NP
8
3
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 gallon per minute = 0.063 L/s.
NP — Not permitted unless the actual water meter pressure loss is known.
a. Table P2904. 6.2(2) establishes conservative values for water meter pressure loss or installations where the water meter loss is unknown. Where the actual
water meter pressure loss is known, P m shall be the actual loss.
b. Flow rate from Section P2904.4.2. Add 5 gpm to the flow rate required by Section P2904.4.2 where the water-service pipe supplies more than one dwelling.
TABLE P2904.6.2(3)
ELEVATION LOSS (PL e )
ELEVATION (feet)
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
PRESSURE LOSS (psi)
2.2
4.4
6.5
8.7
10.9
13
15.2
17.4
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
638
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 111
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
TABLE P2904.6.2(4)
ALLOWABLE PIPE LENGTH FOR %-INCH TYPE M COPPER WATER TUBING
SPRINKLER
FLOW RATE 8
(gpm)
WATER
DISTRIBUTION
SIZE (inch)
AVAILABLE PRESSURE — P,(psi)
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
Allowable length of pipe from service valve to farthest sprinkler (feet)
8
X
217
289
361
434
506
578
650
723
795
867
9
X
174
232
291
349
407
465
523
581
639
697
10
X
143
191
239
287
335
383
430
478
526
574
11
X
120
160
200
241
281
321
361
401
441
481
12
X
102
137
171
205
239
273
307
341
375
410
13
X
88
118
147
177
206
235
265
294
324
353
14
X
77
103
128
154
180
205
231
257
282
308
15
X
68
90
113
136
158
181
203
226
248
271
16
X
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
200
220
241
17
%
54
72
90
108
125
143
161
179
197
215
18
X
48
64
81
97
113
129
145
161
177
193
19
X
44
58
73
88
102
117
131
146
160
175
20
X
40
53
66
80
93
106
119
133
146
159
21
X
36
48
61
73
85
97
109
121
133
145
22
X
33
44
56
67
78
89
100
111
122
133
23
X
31
41
51
61
72
82
92
102
113
123
24
X
28
38
47
57
66
76
85
95
104
114
25
X
26
35
44
53
61
70
79
88
97
105
26
X
24
33
41
49
57
65
73
82
90
98
27
X
23
30
38
46
53
61
69
76
84
91
28
X
21
28
36
43
50
57
64
71
78
85
29
X
20
27
33
40
47
53
60
67
73
80
30
X
19
25
31
38
44
50
56
63
69
75
31
X
18
24
29
35
41
47
53
59
65
71
32
X
17
22
28
33
39
44
50
56
61
67
33
X
16
21
26
32
37
42
47
53
58
63
34
X
NP
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
35
X
NP
19
24
28
33
38
42
47
52
57
36
X
NP
18
22
27
31
36
40
45
49
54
37
X
NP
17
21
26
30
34
38
43
47
51
38
X
NP
16
20
24
28
32
36
40
45
49
39
X
NP
15
19
23
27
31
35
39
42
46
40
X
NP
NP
18
22
26
29
33
37
40
44
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 gallon per minute = 0.963 L/s.
NP — Not permitted
a. Flow rate from Section P2904.4.2.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
639
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
TABLE P2904.6.2(5)
ALLOWABLE PIPE LENGTH FOR 1-INCH TYPE M COPPER WATER TUBING
SPRINKLER
FLOW RATE"
(gpm)
WATER
DISTRIBUTION
SIZE (inch)
AVAILABLE PRESSURE — P,(psi)
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
Allowable length of pipe from service valve to farthest sprinkler (feet)
8
1
806
1075
1343
1612
1881
2149
2418
2687
2955
3224
9
1.
648
864
1080
1296
1512
1728
1945
2161
2377
2593
10
1
533
711
889
1067
1245
1422
1600
1778
1956
2134
11
1
447
586
745
894
1043
1192
1341
1491
1640
1789
12
1
381
508
634
76J
888
1015
1142
1269
1396
1523
13
1
328
438
547
657
766
875
985
1094
1204
1313
14
1
286
382
477
572
668
763
859
954
1049
1145
15
1
252
336
420
504
588
672
756
840
924
1008
16
1
224
298
373
447
522
596
671
745
820
894
17
1
200
266
333
400
466
533
600
666
733
799
18
1
180
240
300
360
420
479
539
599
659
719
19
1
163
217
271
325
380
434
488
542
597
651
20
1
148
197
247
296
345
395
444
493
543
592
21
1
135
180
225
270
315
360
406
451
496
541
22
1
124
165
207
248
289
331
372
413
455
496
23
1
114
152
190
228
267
305
343
381
419
457
24
1
106
141
176
211
246
282
317
352
387
422
25
1
98
131
163
196
228
261
294
326
359
392
26
1
91
121
152
182
212
243
273
304
334
364
27
1
85
113
142
170
198
226
255
283
311
340
28
1
79
106
132
159
185
212
238
265
291
318
29
1
74
99
124
149
174
198
223
248
273
298
30
1
70
93
116
140
163
186
210
233
256
280
31
1
66
88
110
132
153
175
197
219
241
263
32
1
62
83
103
124
145
165
186
207
227
248
33
1
59
78
98
117
137
156
176
195
215
234
34
1
55
74
92
111
129
148
166
185
203
222
35
1
53
70
88
105
123
140
158
175
193
210
36
1
50
66
83
100
116
133
150
166
183
199
37
1
47
63
79
95
111
126
142
158
174
190
38
1
45
60
75
90
105
120
135
150
165
181
39
1
43
57
72
86
100
115
129
143
158
172
40
1
41
55
68
82
96
109
123
137
150
164
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 gallon per minute = 0.963 L/s.
a. Flow rate from Section P2904.4.2.
640
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
TABLE P2904.6.2(6)
ALLOWABLE PIPE LENGTH FOR %-INCH CPVC PIPE
SPRINKLER
FLOW RATE"
(gpm)
WATER
DISTRIBUTION
SIZE (inch)
AVAILABLE PRESSURE — P,(psi)
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
Allowable length of pipe from service valve to farthest sprin
kler (feet)
8
X
348
465
581
697
813
929
1045
1161
1278
1394
9
X
280
374
467
560
654
747
841
934
1027
1121
10
X
231
307
384
461
538
615
692
769
845
922
11
X
193
258
322
387
451
515
580
644
709
773
12
X
165
219
274
329
384
439
494
549
603
658
13
X
142
189
237
284
331
378
426
473
520
568
14
X
124
165
206
247
289
330
371
412
454
495
15
''* J
109
145
182
218
254
290
327
363
399
436
16
X
97
129
161
193
226
258
290
322
354
387
17
X
86
115
144
173
202
230
259
288
317
346
18
X
78
104
130
155
181
207
233
259
285
311
19
X
70
94
117
141
164
188
211
234
258
281
20
X
64
85
107
128
149
171
192
213
235
256
21
X
58
78
97
117
136
156
175
195
214
234
22
X
54
71
89
107
125
143
161
179
197
214
23
X
49
66
82
99
115
132
148
165
181
198
24
X
46
61
76
91
107
122
137
152
167
183
25
X
42
56
71
85
99
113
127
141
155
169
26
X
39
52
66
79
92
105
118
131
144
157
27
X
37
49
61
73
86
98
110
122
135
147
28
X
34
46
57
69
80
92
103
114
126
137
29
X
32
43
54
64
75
86
96
107
118
129
30
X
30
40
50
60
70
81
91
101
111
121
31
X
28
38
47
57
66
76
85
95
104
114
32
X
27
36
45
54
63
71
80
89
98
107
33
X
25
34
42
51
59
68
76
84
93
101
34
X
24
32
40
48
56
64
72
80
88
96
35
X
23
30
38
45
53
61
68
76
83
91
36
X
22
29
36
43
50
57
65
72
79
86
37
X
20
27
34
41
48
55
61
68
75
82
38
X
20
26
33
39
46
52
59
65
72
78
39
X
19
25
31
37
43
50
56
62
68
74
40
X
18
24
30
35
41
47
53
59
65
71
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm :
a. Flow rate from Section P2904.4.2.
1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 gallon per minute = 0.963 L/s.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE' 5 '
641
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
TABLE P2904.6.2(7)
ALLOWABLE PIPE LENGTH FOR 1-INCH CPVC PIPE
SPRINKLER
FLOW RATE"
(gpm)
WATER
DISTRIBUTION
SIZE (inch)
AVAILABLE PRESSURE P,(psi)
15
20
25
30
35
40 45
50
55
60
Allowable length of pipe from service valve to farthest sprinkler (feet)
8
1
1049
1398
1748
2098
2447
2797
3146
3496
3845
4195
9
1
843
1125
1406
1687
1968
2249
2530
2811
3093
3374
10
1
694
925
1157
1388
1619
1851
2082
2314
2545
2776
11
1
582
776
970
1164
1358
1552
1746
1940
2133
2327
12
1
495
660
826
991
1156
1321
1486
1651
1816
1981
13
1
427
570
712
854
997
1139
1281
1424
1566
1709
14
1
372
497
621
745
869
993
1117
1241
1366
1490
15
1
328
437
546
656
765
874
983
1093
1202
1311
16
1
291
388
485
582
679
776
873
970
1067
1 164
17
1
260
347
433
520
607
693
780
867
954
1040
18
1
234
312
390
468
546
624
702
780
858
936
19
1
212
282
353
423
494
565
635
706
776
847
20
1
193
257
321
385
449
513
578
642
706
770
21
1
176
235
293
352
410
469
528
586
645
704
22
1
161
215
269
323
377
430
484
538
592
646
23
I
149
198
248
297
347
396
446
496
545
595
24
1
137
183
229
275
321
366
412
458
504
550
25
1
127
170
212
255
297
340
382
425
467
510
26
1
118
158
197
237
276
316
355
395
434
474
27
1
111
147
184
221
258
295
332
368
405
442
28
1
103
138
172
207
241
275
310
344
379
413
29
1
97
129
161
194
226
258
290
323
355
387
30
1
91
121
152
182
212
242
273
303
333
364
31
1
86
114
143
171
200
228
257
285
314
342
32
1
81
108
134
161
188
215
242
269
296
323
33
1
76
102
127
152
178
203
229
254
280
305
34
1
72
96
120
144
168
192
216
240
265
289
35
1
68
91
114
137
160
182
205
228
251
273
36
1
65
87
108
130
151
173
195
216
238
260
37
1
62
82
103
123
144
165
185
206
226
247
38
1
59
78
98
117
137
157
176
196
215
235
39
1
56
75
93
112
131
149
168
187
205
224
40
]
53
71
89
107
125
142
160
178
196
214
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, ] foot = 304.
a. Flow rate from Section P2904.4.2.
8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 gallon per minute = 0.963 L/s.
642
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
TABLE P2904.6.2(8)
ALLOWABLE PIPE LENGTH FOR 3 / 4 -INCH PEX AND PE-RT TUBING
SPRINKLER
FLOW RATE a
(gpm)
WATER
DISTRIBUTION
SIZE (inch)
AVAILABLE PRESSURE — P,(psi)
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
Allowable length of pipe from service valve to farthest sprinkler (feet)
8
%
93
123
154
185
216
247
278
309
339
370
9
L %
74
99
124
149
174
199
223
248
273
298
10
%
61
82
102
123
143
163
184
204
225
245
11
%
51
68
86
103
120
137
154
171
188
205
12
%
44
58
73
87
102
117
131
146
160
175
13
%
38
50
63
75
88
101
113
126
138
151
14
%
33
44
55
66
77
88
99
110
121
132
15
X
29
39
48
58
68
77
87
96
106
116
16
%
26
34
43
51
60
68
77
86
94
103
17
\
23
31
38
46
54
61
69
77
84
92
18
%
21
28
34
41
48
55
62
69
76
83
19
%
19
25
31
37
44
50
56
62
69
75
20
%
17
23
28
34
40
45
51
57
62
68
21
%
16
21
26
31
36
41
47
52
57
62
22
3 u
NP
19
24
28
33
38
43
47
52
57
23
3 / 4
NP
17
22
26
31
35
39
44
48
52
24
%
NP
16
20
24
28
32
36
40
44
49
25
%
NP
NP
19
22
26
30
34
37
41
45
26
%
NP
NP
17
21
24
28
31
35
38
42
27
%
NP
NP
16
20
23
26
29
33
36
39
28
%
NP
NP
15
18
21
24
27
30
33
36
29
%
NP
NP
NP
17
20
23
26
28
31
34
30
%
NP
NP
NP
16
19
21
24
27
29
32
31
%
NP
NP
NP
15
18
20
23
25
28
30
32
%
NP
NP
NP
NP
17
19
21
24
26
28
33
%
NP
NP
NP
NP
16
18
20
22
25
27
34
%
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
17
19
21
23
25
35
%
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
16
18
20
22
24
36
%
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
15
17
19
21
23
37
%
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
16
18
20
22
38
%
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
16
17
19
21
39
%
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
16
18
20
40
%
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
NP
16
17
19
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 gallon per minute = 0.963 L/s.
NP Not permitted.
a. Flow rate from Section P2904.4.2.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
643
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
TABLE P2904.6.2(9)
ALLOWABLE PIPE LENGTH FOR 1-INCH PEX AND PE-RT TUBING
SPRINKLER
FLOW RATE"
(gpm)
WATER
DISTRIBUTION
SIZE (inch)
AVAILABLE PRESSURE — P,(psi)
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
Allowable length of pipe from service valve to farthest sprinkler (feet)
8
314
418
523
628
732
837
941
1046
1151
1255
9
252
336
421
505
589
673
757
841
925
1009
10
208
277
346
415
485
554
623
692
761
831
11
174
232
290
348
406
464
522
580
638
696
12
148
198
247
296
346
395
445
494
543
593
13
128
170
213
256
298
341
383
426
469
511
14
111
149
186
223
260
297
334
371
409
446
15
98
131
163
196
229
262
294
327
360
392
16
87
116
145
174
203
232
261
290
319
348
17
78
104
130
156
182
208
233
259
285
311
18
70
93
117
140
163
187
210
233
257
280
19
63
84
106
127
148
169
190
211
232
253
20
58
77
96
115
134
154
173
192
211
230
21
53
70
88
105
123
140
158
175
193
211
22
48
64
80
97
113
129
145
161
177
193
23
44
59
74
89
104
119
133
148
163
178
24
41
55
69
82
96
110
123
137
151
164
25
38
51
64
76
89
102
114
127
140
152
26
35
47
59
71
83
95
106
118
130
142
27
33
44
55
66
77
88
99
110
121
132
28
31
41
52
62
72
82
93
103
113
124
29
29
39
48
58
68
77
87
97
106
116
30
27
36
45
54
63
73
82
91
100
109
31
26
34
43
51
60
68
77
85
94
102
32
24
32
40
48
56
64
72
80
89
97
33
23
30
38
46
53
61
68
76
84
91
34
22
29
36
43
50
58
65
72
79
86
35
20
27
34
41
48
55
61
68
75
82
36
19
26
32
39
45
52
58
65
71
78
37
18
25
31
37
43
49
55
62
68
74
38
18
23
29
35
41
47
53
59
64
70
39
17
22
28
33
39
45
50
56
61
67
40
16
21
27
32
37
43
48
53
59
64
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I pound per square inch
a. Flow rate from Section P2904.4.2.
= 6.895 kPa, 1 gallon per minute = 0.963 L/s.
644
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
P2904.8 Inspections. The water distribution system shall be
inspected in accordance with Sections P2904.8.1 and
P2904.8.2.
P2904.8.1 Preconcealment inspection. The following
items shall be verified prior to the concealment of any
sprinkler system piping:
1. Sprinklers are installed in all areas as required by
Section P2904. 1.1.
2. Where sprinkler water spray patterns are obstructed
by construction features, luminaires or ceiling fans,
additional sprinklers are installed as required by
Section P2904.2.4.2.
3. Sprinklers are the correct temperature rating and are
installed at or beyond the required separation dis-
tances from heat sources as required by Sections
P2904.2.1andP2904.2.2.
4. The pipe size equals or exceeds the size used in
applying Tables P2904.6.2(4) through P2904.6.2(9)
or, if the piping system was hydraulically calculated
in accordance with Section P2904.6.1, the size used
in the hydraulic calculation.
5. The pipe length does not exceed the length permit-
ted by Tables P2904.6.2(4) through P2904.6.2(9) or,
if the piping system was hydraulically calculated in
accordance with Section P2904.6.1, pipe lengths and
fittings do not exceed those used in the hydraulic
calculation.
6. Nonmetallic piping that conveys water to sprinklers
is listed for use with fire sprinklers.
7. Piping is supported in accordance with the pipe
manufacturer's and sprinkler manufacturer's instal-
lation instructions.
8. The piping system is tested in accordance with Sec-
tion P2503.7.
P2904.8.2 Final inspection. The following items shall be
verified upon completion of the system:
1. Sprinkler are not painted, damaged or otherwise hin-
dered from operation.
2. Where a pump is required to provide water to the
system, the pump starts automatically upon system
water demand.
3. Pressure-reducing valves, water softeners, water fil-
ters or other impairments to water flow that were not
part of the original design have not been installed.
4. The sign or valve tag required by Section P2904.7 is
installed and the owner's manual for the system is
present.
SECTION P2905
MATERIALS, JOINTS AND CONNECTIONS
P2905.1 Soil and groundwater. The installation of water
service pipe, water distribution pipe, fittings, valves, appurte-
nances and gaskets shall be prohibited in soil and groundwa-
ter that is contaminated with solvents, fuels, organic
compounds or other detrimental materials that cause perme-
ation, corrosion, degradation or structural failure of the water
service or water distribution piping material.
P2905.1.1 Investigation required. Where detrimental
conditions are suspected by or brought to the attention of
the building official, a chemical analysis of the soil and
groundwater conditions shall be required to ascertain the
acceptability of the water service material for the specific
installation.
P2905.1.2 Detrimental condition. When a detrimental
condition exists, approved alternate materials or alternate
routing shall be required.
P2905.2 Lead content. Pipe and fittings used in the water-
supply system shall have lead content of not greater than 8
percent lead.
P2905.3 Polyethylene plastic piping installation. Polyeth-
ylene pipe shall be cut square using a cutter designed for plas-
tic pipe. Except where joined by heat fusion, pipe ends shall
be chamfered to remove sharp edges. Pipe that has been
kinked shall not be installed. For bends, the installed radius of
pipe curvature shall be greater than 30 pipe diameters or the
coil radius when bending with the coil. Coiled pipe shall not
be bent beyond straight. Bends shall not be permitted within
10 pipe diameters of any fitting or valve. Joints between poly-
ethylene plastic pipe and fittings shall comply with Sections
P2905.3.1andP2905.3.2.
P2905.3.1 Heat-fusion joints. Joint surfaces shall be
clean and free from moisture. Joint surfaces shall be
heated to melting temperature and joined. The joint shall
be undisturbed until cool. Joints shall be made in accor-
dance with ASTM D 2657.
P2905.3.2 Mechanical joints. Mechanical joints shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
P2905.4 Water service pipe. Water service pipe shall con-
form to NSF 61 and shall conform to one of the standards
listed in Table P2905.4. Water service pipe or tubing,
installed underground and outside of the structure, shall have
a working pressure rating of not less than 160 pounds per
square inch at 73°F (1103 kPa at 23°C). Where the water
pressure exceeds 160 pounds per square inch (1103 kPa), pip-
ing material shall have a rated working pressure equal to or
greater than the highest available pressure. Water service pip-
ing materials not third-party certified for water distribution
shall terminate at or before the full open valve located at the
entrance to the structure. Ductile iron water service piping
shall be cement mortar lined in accordance with AWWA
C104.
P2905.4.1 Dual check-valve-type backflow preventer.
Where a dual check-valve backflow preventer is installed
on the water supply system, it shall comply with ASSE
1024orCSAB64.6.
P2905.4.2 Water service installation. Trenching, pipe
installation and backfilling shall be in accordance with
Section P2604. Water-service pipe is permitted to be
located in the same trench with a building sewer provided
such sewer is constructed of materials listed for under-
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
645
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
TABLE P2905.4
WATER SERVICE PIPE
MATERIAL
STANDARD
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic pipe
ASTM D 1527; ASTM D 2282
Asbestos-cement pipe
ASTM C 296
Brass pipe
ASTM B 43
Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) plastic pipe
ASTM D 2846; ASTM F 441 ; ASTM F 442; CSA Bl 37.6
Copper or copper-alloy pipe
ASTM B 42; ASTM B 302
Copper or copper-alloy tubing (Type K, WK, L, WL, M or WM)
ASTM B 75; ASTM B 88; ASTM B 251; ASTM B 447
Cross-linked polyethylene/aluminum/cross-linked polyethylene (PEX-AL-
PEX) pipe
ASTMF 1281; ASTM F 2262; CSA B137.10M
Cross-linked polyethylene/aluminum/high-density polyethylene (PEX-AL-
HDPE)
ASTM F 1986
Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) plastic tubing
ASTM F 876; ASTM F 877; CSA B 137.5
Ductile iron water pipe
AWWA C15 1; AWWA CI 15
Galvanized steel pipe
ASTM A 53
Polyethylene/aluminum/polyethylene (PE-AL-PE) pipe
ASTM F 1282; CSA CAN/CS A-B 1 37.9M
Polyethylene (PE) plastic pipe
ASTM D 2104; ASTM D 2239; AWWA C901; CSA B137.1
Polyethylene (PE) plastic tubing
ASTM D 2737; AWWA C901 ; CSA Bl 37.1
Polyethylene of raised temperature (PE-RT) plastic tubing
ASTM F 2769
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic pipe
ASTM D 1785; ASTM D 2241 ; ASTM D 2672; CSA B137.3
Stainless steel (Type 304/304L) pipe
ASTM A 312; ASTM A 778
Stainless steel (Type 316/316L) pipe
ASTM A 312; ASTM A 778
ground use within a building in Section P3002.1. If the
building sewer is not constructed of materials listed in
Section P3002.1, the water-service pipe shall be separated
from the building sewer by not less than 5 feet (1 524 mm),
measured horizontally, of undisturbed or compacted earth
or placed on a solid ledge not less than 12 inches (305
mm) above and to one side of the highest point in the
sewer line.
Exception: The required separation distance shall not
apply where a water service pipe crosses a sewer pipe,
provided that the water service pipe is sleeved not less
than 5 feet (1524 mm), horizontally from the sewer
pipe centerline, on both sides of the crossing with pipe
materials listed in Table P2905.4, P3002.1(l),
P3002.1(2)orP3002.2.
P2905.5 Water-distribution pipe. Water-distribution pip-
ing within dwelling units shall conform to NSF 61 and shall
conform to one of the standards listed in Table P2905.5. All
hot-water-distribution pipe and tubing shall have a pressure
rating of not less than 100 psi at 180°F (689 kPa at 82°C).
P2905.6 Fittings. Pipe fittings shall be approved for installa-
tion with the piping material installed and shall comply with
the applicable standards listed in Table P2905.6. All pipe fit-
tings used in water supply systems shall also comply with
NSF 61.
P2905.7 Flexible water connectors. Flexible water connec-
tors, exposed to continuous pressure, shall conform to ASME
A112.18.6/CSA B125.6. Access shall be provided to all flex-
ible water connectors.
P2905.8 Joint and connection tightness. Joints and connec-
tions in the plumbing system shall be gas tight and water tight
for the intended use or required test pressure.
P2905.9 Plastic pipe joints. Joints in plastic piping shall be
made with approved fittings by solvent cementing, heat
fusion, corrosion-resistant metal clamps with insert fittings or
compression connections. Flared joints for polyethylene pipe
shall be permitted in accordance with Section P2905.3.
P2905.9.1 Solvent cementing. Solvent-cemented joints
shall comply with Sections P2905.9.1.1 through
P2905.9.1.3.
P2905.9.1.1 ABS plastic pipe. Solvent cement for
ABS plastic pipe conforming to ASTM D 2235 shall be
applied to all joint surfaces.
P2905.9.1.2 CPVC plastic pipe. Joint surfaces shall be
clean and free from moisture and an approved primer
shall be applied. Solvent cement for CPVC plastic pipe,
orange in color and conforming to ASTM F 493, shall
be applied to all joint surfaces. The parts shall be joined
while the cement is wet and in accordance with ASTM
D 2846 or ASTM F 493. Solvent-cement joints shall be
permitted above or below ground.
Exception: A primer shall not be required where all
of the following conditions apply:
1. The solvent cement used is third-party certi-
fied as conforming to ASTM F 493.
2. The solvent cement used is yellow in color.
646
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
3. The solvent cement is used only for joining V 2
inch (13 mm) through 2 inch (51 mm) diameter
CPVC pipe and fittings.
4. The CPVC pipe and fittings are manufactured
in accordance with ASTM D 2846.
P2905.9.1.3 PVC plastic pipe. A purple primer that
conforms to ASTM F 656 shall be applied to PVC sol-
vent-cemented joints. Solvent cement for PVC plastic
pipe conforming to ASTM D 2564 shall be applied to
all joint surfaces.
TABLE P2905.5
WATER DISTRIBUTION PIPE
MATERIAL
STANDARD
Brass pipe
ASTM B 43
Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) plastic pipe and tubing
ASTM D 2846; ASTM F 441 ; ASTM F 442;
CSAB137.6
Copper or copper-alloy pipe
ASTM B 42; ASTM B 302
Copper or copper-alloy tubing (Type K, WK, L, WL, M or WM)
ASTM B 75; ASTM B 88; ASTM B 251;
ASTM B 447
Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) plastic tubing
ASTM F 876; ASTM F 877; CSA B137.5
Cross-linked polyethylene/aluminum/cross-linked polyethylene (PEX-AL-PEX) pipe
ASTM F 1281 ; ASTM F 2262; CSA B137.10M
Cross-linked polyethylene/aluminum/high-density polyethylene (PEX-AL-HDPE)
ASTM F 1986
Galvanized steel pipe
ASTM A 53
Polyethylene/aluminum/polyethylene (PE-AL-PE) composite pipe
ASTM F 1282
Polyethylene of raised temperature (PE-RT) plastic tubing
ASTM F 2769
Polypropylene (PP) plastic pipe or tubing
ASTM F 2389; CSA B137.ll
Stainless steel (Type 304/304L) pipe
ASTM A 312; ASTM A 778
TABLE P2905.6
PIPE FITTINGS
MATERIAL
STANDARD
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic
ASTM D 2468
Brass
ASTM Fl 974
Cast-iron
ASME B16.4; ASME B16.12
Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) plastic
ASSE 1061; ASTM D 2846; ASTM F 437; ASTM F 438;
ASTM F 439; CSA B 137.6
Copper or copper alloy
ASSE 1061; ASME B16.15; ASME B16.18; ASME B16.22;
ASME B16.23; ASME B16.26; ASME B 16.29
Cross-linked polyethylene/aluminum/high-density polyethylene (PEX-
AL-HDPE)
ASTM F 1986
Fittings for cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) plastic tubing
ASSE 1061; ASTM F 877; ASTM F 1807; ASTM F 1960;
ASTM F 2080; ASTM F 2098; ASTM F 2 1 59; ASTM F 2434;
ASTM F 2735; CSA B137.5
Gray iron and ductile iron
AWWA CI 10; AWWA C153
Malleable iron
ASMEB16.3
Insert fittings for
Polyethylene/aluminum/polyethylene (PE-AL-PE) and cross-linked
polyethylene/aluminum/polyethylene (PEX-AL-PEX)
ASTM F 1974; ASTM F 1281; ASTM F 1282; CSA B137.9;
CSAB137.10
Polyethylene (PE) plastic
ASTM D 2609; CSA B 137.1
Fittings for polyethylene of raised temperature (PE-RT) plastic tubing
ASTM F 1807; ASTM F2098; ASTM F 2159; ASTM F 2735
Polypropylene (PP) plastic pipe or tubing
ASTM F 2389; CSA B137.ll
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic
ASTM D 2464; ASTM D 2466; ASTM D 2467; CSA B 137.2;
CSAB137.3
Stainless steel (Type 304/304L) pipe
ASTM A 312; ASTM A 778
Stainless steel (Type 316/316L) pipe
ASTM A 312; ASTM A 778
Steel
ASME B16.9; ASME B16.1 1; ASME B16.28
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
647
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
P2905.9.1.4 Cross-linked polyethylene plastic
(PEX). Joints between cross-linked polyethylene plas-
tic tubing or fittings shall comply with Section
P2905.9.1.4.1 or Section P2905.9. 1.4.2.
P2905.9.1.4.1 Flared joints. Flared pipe ends shall
be made by a tool designed for that operation.
P2905.9.1.4.2 Mechanical joints. Mechanical joints
shall be installed in accordance with the manufac-
turer's instructions. Fittings for cross-linked poly-
ethylene (PEX) plastic tubing shall comply with the
applicable standards listed in Table P29Q5.6 and
shall be installed in accordance with the manufac-
turer's instructions. PEX tubing shall be factory
marked with the applicable standards for the fittings
that the PEX manufacturer specifies for use with the
tubing.
P2905.10 Polypropylene (PP) plastic. Joints between poly-
propylene plastic pipe and fittings shall comply with Section
P2905. 10.1 or P2905. 10.2.
P2905.10.1 Heat-fusion joints. Heat fusion joints for
polypropylene pipe and tubing joints shall be installed
with socket-type heat-fused polypropylene fittings, butt-
fusion polypropylene fittings or electrofusion polypropyl-
ene fittings. Joint surfaces shall be clean and free from
moisture. The joint shall be undisturbed until cool. Joints
shall be made in accordance with ASTM F 2389.
P2905.10.2 Mechanical and compression sleeve joints.
Mechanical and compression sleeve joints shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
P2905.ll Cross-linked polyethylene/aluminum/cross-
linked polyethylene. Joints between polyethylene/alumi-
num/polyethylene (PE-AL-PE) and cross-linked polyethyl-
ene/aluminum/cross-linked polyethylene (PEX-AL-PEX)
pipe and fittings shall comply with Section P2905.11.1.
P2905.11.1 Mechanical joints. Mechanical joints shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions. Fittings for PE-AL-PE and PEX-AL-PEX as
described in ASTM F 1974, ASTM F 1281, ASTM F
1282, CSA B137.9 and CSA B137.10 shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
P2905.12 Stainless steel. Joints between stainless steel pipe
and fittings shall comply with Sections P2905.12.1 and
P2905.12.2.
P2905.12.1 Mechanical joints. Mechanical joints shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
P2905.12.2 Welded joints. Joint surfaces shall be
cleaned. The joint shall be welded autogenously or with an
approved filler metal in accordance with ASTM A 312.
P2905.13 Threaded pipe joints. Threaded joints shall con-
form to American National Taper Pipe Thread specifications.
Pipe ends shall be deburred and chips removed. Pipe joint
compound shall be used only on male threads.
P2905.14 Soldered joints. Soldered joints in tubing shall be
made with fittings approved for water piping and shall con-
form to ASTM B 828. Surfaces to be soldered shall be
cleaned bright. The joints shall be properly fluxed and made
with approved solder. Solders and fluxes used in potable
water-supply systems shall have a lead content of not greater
than 0.2 percent. Fluxes shall conform to ASTM B 813.
P2905.15 Flared joints. Flared joints in water tubing shall be
made with approved fittings. The tubing shall be reamed and
then expanded with a flaring tool.
P2905.16 Above-ground joints. Joints within the building
between copper pipe or CPVC tubing, in any combination
with compatible outside diameters, shall be permitted to be
made with the use of approved push-in mechanical fittings of
a pressure-lock design.
P2905.17 Joints between different materials. Joints
between different piping materials shall be made in accor-
dance with Sections P2905.17.1, P2905.17.2 and P2905.17.3
or with a mechanical joint of the compression or mechanical
sealing type having an elastomeric seal conforming to ASTM
D 1869 or ASTM F 477. Joints shall be installed in accor-
dance with the manufacturer's instructions.
P2905.17.1 Copper or copper-alloy tubing to galva-
nized steel pipe. Joints between copper or copper-alloy
tubing and galvanized steel pipe shall be made with a
brass fitting or dielectric fitting. The copper tubing shall
be joined to the fitting in an approved manner, and the fit-
ting shall be screwed to the threaded pipe.
P2904.17.2 Plastic pipe or tubing to other piping mate-
rial. Joints between different types of plastic pipe or
between plastic pipe and other piping material shall be
made with an approved adapter fitting.
P2905.17.3 Stainless steel. Joints between stainless steel
and different piping materials shall be made with a
mechanical joint of the compression or mechanical-sealing
type or a dielectric fitting.
P2905.18 Press joints. Press-type mechanical joints in cop-
per tubing shall be made in accordance with the manufac-
turer's instructions using approved tools which affix the
copper fitting with integral O-ring to the tubing.
P2905.19 Polyethylene of raised temperature plastic.
Joints between polyethylene of raised temperature plastic
tubing and fittings shall be in accordance with Section
P2905.19.1 and Section P2905.19.2
P2905.19.1 Flared joints. Flared pipe ends shall be made
by a tool designed for that operation.
P2905.19.2 Mechanical joints. Mechanical joints shall
be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions. Fittings for polyethylene of raised temperature plas-
tic tubing shall comply with the applicable standards listed
in Table P2905.6 and shall be installed in accordance with
the manufacturer's instructions. Polyethylene of raised
temperature plastic tubing shall be factory marked with the
applicable standards for the fittings that the manufacturer
of the tubing specifies for use with the tubing.
648
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
SECTION P2906
CHANGES \H DIRECTION
P2906.1 Bends. Changes in direction in copper tubing are
permitted to be made with bends having a radius of not less
than four diameters of the tube, providing such bends are
made by use of forming equipment that does not deform or
create loss in cross-sectional area of the tube.
SECTION P2907
SUPPORT
P2907.1 General. Pipe and tubing support shall conform to
Section P2605.
SECTION P2908
DRINKING WATER TREATMENT UNITS
P2908.1 Design. Drinking water treatment units shall meet
the requirements of NSF42, NSF 44, NSF 53, NSF 60 or
CSAB483.1.
P2908.2 Reverse osmosis drinking water treatment units.
Point-of-use reverse osmosis drinking water treatment units,
designed for residential use, shall meet the requirements of
NSF 58 or CSA B483.1. Waste or discharge from reverse
osmosis drinking water treatment units shall enter the drain-
age system through an air gap or an air gap device that meets
the requirements of NSF 58.
P2908.3 Connection tubing. The tubing to and from drink-
ing water treatment units shall be of a size and material as
recommended by the manufacturer. The tubing shall comply
with NSF 14, NSF 42, NSF 44, NSF 53, NSF 58 or NSF 61.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
649
650 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 30
SANITARY DRAINAGE
SECTION P3001
GENERAL
P3001.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern
the materials, design, construction and installation of sanitary
drainage systems. Plumbing materials shall conform to the
requirements of this chapter. The drainage, waste and vent
(DWV) system shall consist of all piping for conveying
wastes from plumbing fixtures, appliances and appurte-
nances, including fixture traps; above-grade drainage piping;
below-grade drains within the building (building drain);
below- and above-grade venting systems; and piping to the
public sewer or private septic system.
P3001.2 Protection from freezing. No portion of the above
grade DWV system other than vent terminals shall be located
outside of a building, in attics or crawl spaces, concealed in
outside walls, or in any other place subjected to freezing tem-
peratures unless adequate provision is made to protect them
from freezing by insulation or heat or both, except in locali-
ties having a winter design temperature above 32°F (0°C)
(ASHRAE 97.5 percent column, winter, see Chapter 3).
P3001.3 Flood-resistant installation. In flood hazard areas
as established by Table R30 1.2(1), drainage, waste and vent
systems shall be located and installed to prevent infiltration
of floodwaters into the systems and discharges from the sys-
tems into floodwaters.
SECTION P3002
MATERIALS
P3002.1 Piping within buildings. Drain, waste and vent
(DWV) piping in buildings shall be as shown in Tables
P3002.1(l) and P3002.1(2) except that galvanized wrought-
iron or galvanized steel pipe shall not be used underground
and shall be maintained not less than 6 inches (152 mm)
above ground. Allowance shall be made for the thermal
expansion and contraction of plastic piping.
P3002.2 Building sewer. Building sewer piping shall be as
shown in Table P3002.2. Forced main sewer piping shall con-
form to one of the standards for ABS plastic pipe, copper or
copper-alloy tubing, PVC plastic pipe or pressure-rated pipe
listed in Table P3002.2.
P3002.3 Fittings. Pipe fittings shall be approved for installa-
tion with the piping material installed and shall comply with
the applicable standards listed in Table P3002.3.
P3002.3.1 Drainage. Drainage fittings shall have a
smooth interior waterway of the same diameter as the pip-
ing served. All fittings shall conform to the type of pipe
used. Drainage fittings shall have no ledges, shoulders or
reductions which can retard or obstruct drainage flow in
the piping. Threaded drainage pipe fittings shall be of the
recessed drainage type, black or galvanized. Drainage fit-
tings shall be designed to maintain one-fourth unit vertical
in 12 units horizontal (2-percent slope) grade. This section
shall not be applicable to tubular waste fittings used to
convey vertical flow upstream of the trap seal liquid level
of a fixture trap.
P3002.4 Other materials. Sheet lead, lead bends, lead traps
and sheet copper shall comply with Sections P3002.4.1
through P3002.4.3.
P3002.4. 1 Sheet lead. Sheet lead for the following uses
shall weigh not less than indicated below:
1. Flashing of vent terminals, 3 psf (15 kg/m 2 ).
2. Prefabricated flashing for vent pipes, 2'/ 2 psf (12 kg/
m 2 ).
TABLE P3002.1(1)
ABOVE-GROUND DRAINAGE AND VENT PIPE
PIPE
STANDARD
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic pipe in IPS diameters, including
schedule 40, DR 22 (PS 200) and DR 24 (PS 140); with a solid, cellular core or
composite wall
ASTM D 2661; ASTM F 628; ASTM F 1488; CSA B18 1 .1
Brass pipe
ASTM B 43
Cast-iron pipe
ASTM A 74; CISPI 30 1 ; ASTM A 888
Copper or copper-alloy pipe
ASTM B 42; ASTM B 302
Copper or copper-alloy tubing (Type K, L, M or DWV)
ASTM B 75; ASTM B 88; ASTM B 251; ASTM B 306
Galvanized steel pipe
ASTM A 53
Polyolefin pipe
CSAB181.3
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic pipe in IPS diameters, including schedule 40,
DR 22 (PS 200) and DR 24 (PS 140); with a solid, cellular core or composite wall
ASTM D 2665; ASTM F 891; CSA B181.2; ASTM F 1488
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic pipe with a 3.25 inch O.D. and a solid, cellular
core or composite wall
ASTM D 2949; ASTM F 1488
Stainless steel drainage systems, Types 304 and 316L
ASME A 112.3.1
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
651
SANITARY DRAINAGE
TABLEP3002.1(2)
UNDERGROUND BUILDING DRAINAGE AND VENT PIPE
PIPE
STANDARD
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic pipe in IPS diameters, including
schedule 40, DR 22 (PS 200) and DR 24 (PS 140); with a solid, cellular core
or composite wall
ASTM D 2661; ASTM F 628; ASTM F 1488; CSA B18I.1
Asbestos-cement pipe
ASTM C 428
Cast-iron pipe
ASTM A 74; CISPI 301; ASTM A 888
Copper or copper alloy tubing (Type K, L, M or DWV)
ASTM B 75; ASTM B 88; ASTM B 251; ASTM B 306
Polyolefin pipe
ASTMF 1412; CSA B181.3
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic pipe in IPS diameters, including schedule
40, DR 22 (PS 200) and DR 24 (PS 140); with a solid, cellular core or com-
posite wall
ASTM D 2665; ASTM F 891; ASTM F 1488; CSA B181.2
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic pipe with a 3.25 inch O.D. and a solid, cellu-
lar core or composite wall
ASTM D 2949; ASTM F 1488
Stainless steel drainage systems, Type 316L
ASME A 112.3.1
For SI: I inch = 25.4 ram.
TABLE P3002.2
BUILDING SEWER PIPE
MATERIAL
STANDARD
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic pipe in IPS diameters,
including schedule 40, DR 22 (PS 200) and DR 24 (PS 140); with a
solid, cellular core or composite wall
ASTM D 2661; ASTM F 628; ASTM F 1488
Asbestos-cement pipe
ASTM C 428
Cast-iron pipe
ASTM A 74; ASTM A 888; CISPI 301
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic pipe in sewer and drain
diameters, including SDR 42 (PS 20), PS35, SDR 35 (PS 45), PS50,
PS 100, PS 140, SDR 23.5 (PS 150) and PS200; with a solid, cellular
core or composite wall
ASTM F 1488; ASTM D 2751
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic pipe in sewer and drain diameters,
including PS 25, SDR 41 (PS 28), PS 35, SDR 35 (PS 46), PS 50, PS
100, SDR 26 (PS 1 1 5), PS140 and PS 200; with a solid, cellular core
or composite wall
ASTM F 891; ASTM F 1488; ASTM D 3034; CSA B182.2;
CSA B 182.4
Concrete pipe
ASTM C 14; ASTM C 76; CSA A257.1M; CSA A257.2M
Copper or copper-alloy tubing (Type K or L)
ASTM B 75; ASTM B 88; ASTM B 251
Polyethylene (PE) plastic pipe (SDR-PR)
ASTMF 714
Polyolefin pipe
ASTMF 1412; CSA B181.3
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic pipe in IPS diameters, including
schedule 40, DR 22 (PS 200) and DR 24 (PS 140); with solid, cellular
core or composite wall
ASTM D 2665; ASTM D 2949; ASTM D 3034;
ASTM F 1412; CSA B182.2; CSA B182.4
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic pipe with a 3.25 inch O.D. and a
solid, cellular core or composite wall
ASTM D 2949, ASTM F 1488
Stainless steel drainage systems, Types 304 and 316L
ASME A 112.3.1
Vitrified clay pipe
ASTM C 425; ASTM C 700
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
652
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
SANITARY DRAINAGE
TABLE P3002.3
PIPE FITTINGS
PIPE MATERIAL
FITTING STANDARD
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic pipe in IPS diameters
ASTM D 2661; ASTMD 3311; ASTM F 628; CSAB181.1
Asbestos cement
ASTM C 428
Cast-iron
ASME B 16.4; ASME B 16.1 2; ASTM A 74; ASTM A 888; C1SPI 301
Acrylonotrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic pipe in sewer and
drain diameters
ASTMD 2751
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic pipe in sewer and drain diameters
ASTM D 3034
Copper or copper alloy
ASME B 16.15; ASME B 16.18; ASME B 16.22;
ASME B 16.23; ASME B 16.26; ASME B 16.29
Gray iron and ductile iron
A WW AC 110
Polyolefin
ASTM F 1412; CSAB181.3
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic in IPS diameters
ASTM D 2665; ASTM D 3311; ASTM F 1866
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic pipe with a 3.25 inch O.D.
ASTM D 2949
PVC fabricated fittings
ASTM F 1866
Stainless steel drainage systems, Types 304 and 316L
ASME A 112.3.1
Vitrified clay
ASTM C 700
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
P3002.4.2 Lead bends and traps. Lead bends and lead
traps shall not be less than V 8 -inch (3 mm) wall thickness.
P3002.4.3 Sheet copper. Sheet copper for the following
uses shall weigh not less than indicated below:
1 . General use, 12 ounces per square feet (4 kg/m 2 ).
2. Flashing for vent pipes, 8 ounces per square feet (2.5
kg/m 2 ).
SECTION P3003
JOINTS AND CONNECTIONS
P3003.1 Tightness. Joints and connections in the DWV sys-
tem shall be gas tight and water tight for the intended use or
pressure required by test.
P3003.1.1 Threaded joints, general. Pipe and fitting
threads shall be tapered.
P3003.2 Prohibited joints. Running threads and bands shall
not be used in the drainage system. Drainage and vent piping
shall not be drilled, tapped, burned or welded.
The following types of joints and connections shall be pro-
hibited:
1. Cement or concrete.
2. Mastic or hot-pour bituminous joints.
3. Joints made with fittings not approved for the specific
installation.
4. Joints between different diameter pipes made with elas-
tomeric rolling O-rings.
5. Solvent-cement joints between different types of plastic
pipe.
6. Saddle-type fittings.
P3003.3 ABS plastic. Joints between ABS plastic pipe or fit-
tings shall comply with Sections P3003.3.1 through
P3003.3.3.
P3003.3.1 Mechanical joints. Mechanical joints on drain-
age pipes shall be made with an elastomeric seal conform-
ing to ASTM C 1173, ASTM D 3212 or CSA B602.
Mechanical joints shall be installed only in underground
systems unless otherwise approved. Joints shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
P3003.3.2 Solvent cementing. Joint surfaces shall be
clean and free from moisture. Solvent cement that con-
forms to ASTM D 2235 or CSA B 1 8 1 . 1 shall be applied to
all joint surfaces. The joint shall be made while the cement
is wet. Joints shall be made in accordance with ASTM D
2235, ASTM D 2661, ASTM F 628 or CSA B 181.1. Sol-
vent-cement joints shall be permitted above or below
ground.
P3003.3.3 Threaded joints. Threads shall conform to
ASME B 1.20.1. Schedule 80 or heavier pipe shall be per-
mitted to be threaded with dies specifically designed for
plastic pipe. Approved thread lubricant or tape shall be
applied on the male threads only.
P30D3.4 Asbestos-cement. Joints between asbestos-cement
pipe or fittings shall be made with a sleeve coupling of the
same composition as the pipe, sealed with an elastomeric ring
conforming to ASTM D 1869.
P3003.5 Brass. Joints between brass pipe or fittings shall
comply with Sections P3O03.5.1 through P3003.5.3.
P3003.5.1 Brazed joints. All joint surfaces shall be
cleaned. An approved flux shall be applied where
required. The joint shall be brazed with a filler metal con-
forming to AWS A5. 8.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
653
SANITARY DRAINAGE
P3003.5.2 Mechanical joints. Mechanical joints shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
P3003.5.3 Threaded joints. Threads shall conform to
ASME B 1.20.1. Pipe-joint compound or tape shall be
applied on the male threads only.
P3003.6 Cast iron. Joints between cast-iron pipe or fittings
shall comply with Sections P3003.6.1 through P3003.6.3.
P3003.6.1 Caulked joints. Joints for hub and spigot pipe
shall be firmly packed with oakum or hemp. Molten lead
shall be poured in one operation to a depth of not less than
1 inch (25 mm). The lead shall not recede more than V 8
inch (3 mm) below the rim of the hub and shall be caulked
tight. Paint, varnish or other coatings shall not be permit-
ted on the jointing material until after the joint has been
tested and approved. Lead shall be run in one pouring and
shall be caulked tight. Acid-resistant rope and acidproof
cement shall be permitted.
P3003.6.2 Compression gasket joints. Compression gas-
kets for hub and spigot pipe and fittings shall conform to
ASTM C 564. Gaskets shall be compressed when the pipe
is fully inserted.
P3003.6.3 Mechanical joint coupling. Mechanical joint
couplings for hubless pipe and fittings shall comply with
CISPI 310 or ASTM C 1277. The elastomeric sealing
sleeve shall conform to ASTM C 564 or CSA B602 and
shall have a center stop. Mechanical joint couplings shall
be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instal-
lation instructions.
P3003.7 Concrete joints. Joints between concrete pipe and
fittings shall be made with an elastomeric seal conforming to
ASTM C 443, ASTM C 1 1 73, CSA A257.3M or CSA B602.
P3003.8 Coextruded composite ABS pipe. Joints between
coextruded composite pipe with an ABS outer layer or ABS
fittings shall comply with Sections P3003.8.1 and P3003.8.2.
P3003.8.1 Mechanical joints. Mechanical joints on drain-
age pipe shall be made with an elastomeric seal conform-
ing to ASTM C 1173, ASTM D 3212 or CSA B602.
Mechanical joints shall not be installed in above-ground
systems, unless otherwise approved. Joints shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
P3003.8.2 Solvent cementing. Joint surfaces shall be
clean and free from moisture. Solvent cement that con-
forms to ASTM D 2235 or CSA B 1 8 1 . 1 shall be applied to
all joint surfaces. The joint shall be made while the cement
is wet. Joints shall be made in accordance with ASTM D
2235, ASTM D 2661, ASTM F 628 or CSA B 181.1. Sol-
vent-cement joints shall be permitted above or below
ground.
P3003.9 Coextruded composite PVC pipe. Joints between
coextruded composite pipe with a PVC outer layer or PVC
fittings shall comply with Sections P3003.9.1 and P3003.9.2.
P3003.9J Mechanical joints. Mechanical joints on drain-
age pipe shall be made with an elastomeric seal conform-
ing to ASTM D 3212. Mechanical joints shall not be
installed in above-ground systems, unless otherwise
approved. Joints shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions.
P3003.9.2 Solvent cementing. Joint surfaces shall be
clean and free from moisture. A purple primer that con-
forms to ASTM F 656 shall be applied. Solvent cement
not purple in color and conforming to ASTM D 2564,
CSA B137.3 or CSA B181.2 shall be applied to all joint
surfaces. The joint shall be made while the cement is wet,
and shall be in accordance with ASTM D 2855. Solvent-
cement joints shall be permitted above or below ground.
P3003.10 Copper pipe. Joints between copper or copper-
alloy pipe or fittings shall comply with Sections P3003.10.1
through P3003. 10.4.
P3003.10.1 Brazed joints. All joint surfaces shall be
cleaned. An approved flux shall be applied where
required. The joint shall be brazed with a filler metal con-
forming to AWS A5.8.
P3003.10.2 Mechanical joints. Mechanical joints shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
P3003.10.3 Soldered joints. Solder joints shall be made
in accordance with the methods of ASTM B 828. All cut
tube ends shall be reamed to the full inside diameter of the
tube end. All joint surfaces shall be cleaned. A flux con-
forming to ASTM B 813 shall be applied. The joint shall
be soldered with a solder conforming to ASTM B 32.
P3003.10.4 Threaded joints. Threads shall conform to
ASME B 1.20.1. Pipe-joint compound or tape shall be
applied on the male threads only.
P3003.ll Copper tubing. Joints between copper or copper-
alloy tubing or fittings shall comply with Sections
P3003.1 1.1 through P3003.1 1.3.
P3003.11.1 Brazed joints. All joint surfaces shall be
cleaned. An approved flux shall be applied where
required. The joint shall be brazed with a filler metal con-
forming to AWS A5.8.
P3003.11.2 Mechanical joints. Mechanical joints shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
P3003.11.3 Soldered joints. Solder joints shall be made
in accordance with the methods of ASTM B 828. Cut tube
ends shall be reamed to the full inside diameter of the tube
end. All joint surfaces shall be cleaned. A flux conforming
to ASTM B 813 shall be applied. The joint shall be sol-
dered with a solder conforming to ASTM B 32.
P3003.12 Steel. Joints between galvanized steel pipe or fit-
tings shall comply with Sections P3003.12.1 and P3003.12.2.
P3003.12.1 Threaded joints. Threads shall conform to
ASME B 1.20.1. Pipe-joint compound or tape shall be
applied on the male threads only.
P3003.12.2 Mechanical joints. Joints shall be made with
an approved elastomeric seal. Mechanical joints shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
654
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
SAMITARY DRAINAGE
P3003.13 Lead. Joints between lead pipe or fittings shall
comply with Sections P3003.13.1 and P3003.13.2.
P3003.13.1 Burned. Burned joints shall be uniformly
fused together into one continuous piece. The thickness of
the joint shall be at least as thick as the lead being joined.
The filler metal shall be of the same material as the pipe.
P3003.13.2 Wiped. Joints shall be fully wiped, with an
exposed surface on each side of the joint not less than 3 / 4
inch (19 mm). The joint shall be at least 3 / 8 inch (9.5 mm)
thick at the thickest point.
P3003.14 PVC plastic. Joints between PVC plastic pipe or
fittings shall comply with Sections P3003.14.1 through
P3003.14.3.
P3003.14.1 Mechanical joints. Mechanical joints on
drainage pipe shall be made with an elastomeric seal con-
forming to ASTM C 1173, ASTM D 3212 or CSA B602.
Mechanical joints shall not be installed in above-ground
systems, unless otherwise approved. Joints shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
P3003.142 Solvent cementing. Joint surfaces shall be
clean and free from moisture. A purple primer that con-
forms to ASTM F 656 shall be applied. Solvent cement
not purple in color and conforming to ASTM D 2564,
CSA B 137.3 or CSA B181.2 shall be applied to all joint
surfaces. The joint shall be made while the cement is wet,
and shall be in accordance with ASTM D 2855. Solvent-
cement joints shall be permitted above or below ground.
P3003.14.3 Threaded joints. Threads shall conform to
ASME B 1.20.1. Schedule 80 or heavier pipe shall be per-
mitted to be threaded with dies specifically designed for
plastic pipe. Approved thread lubricant or tape shall be
applied on the male threads only.
P3003.15 Vitrified clay. Joints between vitrified clay pipe or
fittings shall be made with an elastomeric seal conforming to
ASTM C 425, ASTM CI 173 or CSA B602.
P3003.16 Polyolefin plastic. Joints between polyolefin plas-
tic pipe and fittings shall comply with Sections P3003.16.1
and P3003. 16.2.
P3003.16.1 Heat-fusion joints. Heat-fusion joints for
polyolefin pipe and tubing joints shall be installed with
socket-type heat-fused polyolefin fittings or electrofusion
polyolefin fittings. Joint surfaces shall be clean and free
from moisture. The joint shall be undisturbed until cool.
Joints shall be made in accordance with ASTM F 1412 or
CSAB181.3.
P3003.16.2 Mechanical and compression sleeve joints.
Mechanical and compression sleeve joints shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
P3003.17 Polyethylene plastic pipe. Joints between polyeth-
ylene plastic pipe and fittings shall be underground and shall
comply with Section P3003.17.1 or P3003.17.2.
P3003.17.1 Heat fusion joints. Joint surfaces shall be
clean and free from moisture. All joint surfaces shall be
cut, heated to melting temperature and joined using tools
specifically designed for the operation. Joints shall be
undisturbed until cool. Joints shall be made in accordance
with ASTM D 2657 and the manufacturer's instructions.
P3003.17.2 Mechanical joints. Mechanical joints in
drainage piping shall be made with an elastomeric seal
conforming to ASTM C 1173, ASTM D 3212 or CSA
B602. Mechanical joints shall be installed in accordance
with the manufacturer's instructions.
P3003.18 Joints between different materials. Joints
between different piping materials shall be made with a
mechanical joint of the compression or mechanical-sealing
type conforming to ASTM C 1 173, ASTM C 1460 or ASTM
C 1461. Connectors and adapters shall be approved for the
application and such joints shall have an elastomeric seal
conforming to ASTM C 425, ASTM C 443, ASTM C 564,
ASTM C 1440, ASTM D 1869, ASTM F 477, CSA A257.3M
or CSA B602, or as required in Sections P3003.18.1 through
P3003.18.6. Joints between glass pipe and other types of
materials shall be made with adapters having a TFE seal.
Joints shall be installed in accordance with the manufac-
turer's instructions.
P3003.18.1 Copper or copper-alloy tubing to cast-iron
hub pipe. Joints between copper or copper-alloy tubing
and cast-iron hub pipe shall be made with a brass ferrule
or compression joint. The copper or copper-alloy tubing
shall be soldered to the ferrule in an approved manner, and
the ferrule shall be joined to the cast-iron hub by a caulked
joint or a mechanical compression joint.
P3003.18.2 Copper or copper-alloy tubing to galva-
nized steel pipe. Joints between copper or copper-alloy
tubing and galvanized steel pipe shall be made with a
brass converter fitting or dielectric fitting. The copper tub-
ing shall be soldered to the fitting in an approved manner,
and the fitting shall be screwed to the threaded pipe.
P3003.18.3 Cast-iron pipe to galvanized steel or brass
pipe. Joints between cast-iron and galvanized steel or
brass pipe shall be made by either caulked or threaded
joints or with an approved adapter fitting.
P3003.18.4 Plastic pipe or tubing to other piping mate-
rial. Joints between different types of plastic pipe or
between plastic pipe and other piping material shall be
made with an approved adapter fitting. Joints between
plastic pipe and cast-iron hub pipe shall be made by a
caulked joint or a mechanical compression joint.
P3003.18.5 Lead pipe to other piping material. Joints
between lead pipe and other piping material shall be made
by a wiped joint to a caulking ferrule, soldering nipple, or
bushing or shall be made with an approved adapter fitting.
P3003.18.6 Stainless steel drainage systems to other
materials. Joints between stainless steel drainage systems
and other piping materials shall be made with approved
mechanical couplings.
P3003.19 Joints between drainage piping and water clos-
ets. Joints between drainage piping and water closets or simi-
lar fixtures shall be made by means of a closet flange or a
waste connector and sealing gasket compatible with the
drainage system material, securely fastened to a structurally
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 6
655
SANITARY DRAINAGE
firm base. The inside diameter of the drainage pipe shall not
be used as a socket fitting for a 4-inch by 3-inch (102 mm by
76 mm) closet flange. The joint shall be bolted, with an
approved gasket flange to fixture connection complying with
ASME Al 12.4.3 or setting compound between the fixture
and the closet flange or waste connector and sealing gasket.
The waste connector and sealing gasket joint shall comply
with the joint-tightness test of ASME A112.4.3 and shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation
instructions.
SECTION P3004
DETERMINING DRAINAGE FIXTURE UNITS
P3004.1 DWV system load. The load on DWV-system pip-
ing shall be computed in terms of drainage fixture unit (d.f.u.)
values in accordance with Table P3004.1.
SECTION P3005
DRAINAGE SYSTEM
P3005.1 Drainage fittings and connections. Changes in
direction in drainage piping shall be made by the appropriate
use of sanitary tees, wyes, sweeps, bends or by a combination
of these drainage fittings in accordance with Table P3005.1 .
Change in direction by combination fittings, heel or side
inlets or increasers shall be installed in accordance with Table
P3005.1 and Sections P3005.1.1 through P3005.1.4. based on
the pattern of flow created by the fitting.
P3005.1.1 Horizontal to vertical (multiple connection
fittings). Double fittings such as double sanitary tees and
tee-wyes or approved multiple connection fittings and
back-to-back fixture arrangements that connect two or
more branches at the same level shall be permitted as long
as directly opposing connections are the same size and the
TABLE P3004.1
DRAINAGE FIXTURE UNIT (d.f.u.) VALUES FOR VARIOUS PLUMBING FIXTURES
TYPE OF FIXTURE OR GROUP OF FIXTURES
DRAINAGE FIXTURE UNIT
VALUE (d.f.u.)"
Bar sink
1
Bathtub (with or without shower head and/or whirlpool attachments)
2
Bidet
1
Clothes washer standpipe
2
Dishwasher
2
Floor drain b
Kitchen sink
2
Lavatory
1
Laundry tub
2
Shower stall
2
Water closet (1.6 gallons per flush)
3
Water closet (greater than 1.6 gallons per flush)
4
Full-bath group with bathtub (with 1 .6 gallon per flush water closet, and with or without shower head and/or
whirlpool attachment on the bathtub or shower stall)
5
Full-bath group with bathtub (water closet greater than 1.6 gallon per flush, and with or without shower head
and/or whirlpool attachment on the bathtub or shower stall)
6
Half-bath group (1.6 gallon per flush water closet plus lavatory)
4
Half-bath group (water closet greater than 1 .6 gallon per flush plus lavatory)
5
Kitchen group (dishwasher and sink with or without garbage grinder)
2
Laundry group (clothes washer standpipe and laundry tub)
3
Multiple-bath groups':
1.5 baths
2 baths
2.5 baths
3 baths
3.5 baths
7
8
9
10
11
For SI: 1 gallon = 3.785 L.
a. For a continuous or semicontinuous flow into a drainage system, such as from a pump or similar device, 1.5 fixture units shall be allowed per gpm of flow. For
a fixture not listed, use the highest d.f.u. value for a similar listed fixture.
b. A floor drain itself adds no hydraulic load. However, where used as a receptor, the fixture unit value of the fixture discharging into the receptor shall be
applicable.
c. Add 2 d.f.u. for each additional full bath.
656
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
discharge into directly opposing connections is from simi-
lar fixture types or fixture groups. Double sanitary tee pat-
terns shall not receive the discharge of back-to-back water
closets and fixtures or appliances with pumping action dis-
charge.
Exception: Back-to-back water closet connections to
double sanitary tee patterns shall be permitted where
the horizontal developed length between the outlet of
the water closet and the connection to the double sani-
tary tee is 1 8 inches (457 mm) or greater.
P3005.1.2 Heel- or side-inlet quarter bends, drainage.
Heel-inlet quarter bends shall be an acceptable means of
connection, except where the quarter bends serves a water
closet. A low-heel inlet shall not be used as a wet-vented
connection. Side-inlet quarter bends shall be an acceptable
means of connection for both drainage, wet venting and
stack venting arrangements.
P3005.1.3 Heel- or side-inlet quarter bends, venting.
Heel-inlet or side-inlet quarter bends, or any arrangement
of pipe and fittings producing a similar effect, shall be
acceptable as a dry vent where the inlet is placed in a verti-
cal position. The inlet is permitted to be placed in a hori-
zontal position only where the entire fitting is part of a dry
vent arrangement.
P3005.1.4 Water closet connection between flange and
pipe. One-quarter bends 3 inches (76 mm) in diameter
shall be acceptable for water closet or similar connections,
provided a 4-inch by 3-inch (102 mm by 76 mm) flange is
installed to receive the closet fixture horn. Alternately, a 4-
inch by 3-inch (102 mm by 76 mm) elbow shall be accept-
able with a 4-inch (102 mm) flange.
P3005.1.5 Dead ends. Dead ends shall be prohibited
except where necessary to extend a cleanout or as an
approved part of a rough-in more than 2 feet (610 mm) in
length.
P3005.1.6 Provisions for future fixtures. Where drain-
age has been roughed-in for future fixtures, the drainage
unit values of the future fixtures shall be considered in
SANITARY DRAINAGE
determining the required drain sizes. Such future installa-
tions shall be terminated with an accessible permanent
plug or cap fitting.
P3005.1.7 Change in size. The size of the drainage piping
shall not be reduced in size in the direction of the flow. A
4-inch by 3-inch (102 mm by 76 mm) water closet connec-
tion shall not be considered as a reduction in size.
P3005.2 Drainage pipe cleanouts. Drainage pipe cleanouts
shall comply with Sections P3005.2.1 through P3005.2.1 1.
Exception: These provisions shall not apply to pressur-
ized building drains and building sewers that convey the
discharge of automatic pumping equipment to a gravity
drainage system.
P3005.2.1 Materials. Cleanouts shall be liquid and gas
tight. Cleanout plugs shall be brass or plastic.
P3005.2.2 Spacing. Cleanouts shall be installed not more
than 100 feet (30 480 mm) apart in horizontal drainage
lines measured from the upstream entrance of the clea-
nout.
P3005.2.3 Underground drainage cleanouts. When
installed in underground drains, cleanouts shall be
extended vertically to or above finished grade either inside
or outside the building.
P3005.2.4 Change of direction. Cleanouts shall be
installed at each fitting with a change of direction more
than 45 degrees (0.79 rad) in the building sewer, building
drain and horizontal waste or soil lines. Where more than
one change of direction occurs in a run of piping, only one
cleanout shall be required in each 40 feet (12 192 mm) of
developed length of the drainage piping.
P3005.2.5 Accessibility. Cleanouts shall be accessible.
The clearance in front of cleanouts shall be not less than
18 inches (457 mm) on 3-inch (76 mm) and larger pipes,
and not less than 12 inches (305 mm) on smaller pipes.
Concealed cleanouts shall be provided with access of suf-
ficient size to permit removal of the cleanout plug and rod-
ding of the system. Cleanout plugs shall not be concealed
by permanent finishing material.
TABLE P3005.1
FITTINGS FOR CHANGE IN DIRECTION
TYPE OF FITTING PATTERN
CHANGE IN DIRECTION
Horizontal to vertical
Vertical to horizontal
Horizontal to horizontal
Sixteenth bend
X
X
X
Eighth bend
X
X
X
Sixth bend
X
X
X
Quarter bend
X
x a
x a
Short sweep
X
X a.b
x a
Long sweep
X
X
X
Sanitary tee
x c
—
—
Wye
x
X
X
Combination wye and eighth bend
X
X
X
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. The fittings shall only be permitted for a 2-inch or smaller fixture drain.
b. Three inches and larger.
c. For a limitation on multiple connection fittings, see Section P3005.1.1.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
657
SANITARY DRAINAGE
P3005.2.6 Base of stacks. A cleanout shall be provided at
the base of each waste or soil stack.
P3005.2.7 Building drain and building sewer junction.
There shall be a cleanout near the junction of the building
drain and building sewer. This cleanout shall be either
inside or outside the building wall, provided that it is
brought up to finish grade or to the lowest floor level. An
approved two-way cleanout shall be permitted to serve as
the required cleanout for both the building drain and the
building sewer. The cleanout at the junction of the build-
ing drain and building sewer shall not be required where a
cleanout on a 3-inch (76 mm) or larger diameter soil stack
is located within a developed length of 10 feet (3048 mm)
of the building drain and building sewer junction.
P3005.2.8 Direction of flow. Cleanouts shall be installed
so that the cleanout opens to allow cleaning in the direc-
tion of the flow of the drainage line.
P3005.2.9 Cleanout size. Cleanouts shall be the same
nominal size as the pipe they serve up to 4 inches (102
mm). For pipes larger than 4 inches (102 mm) nominal
size, the size of the cleanout shall be not less than 4 inches
(102 mm).
Exceptions:
1 . "P" trap connections with slip joints or ground
joint connections, or stack cleanouts that are not
more than one pipe diameter smaller than the
drain served, shall be permitted.
2. Cast-iron cleanouts sized in accordance with the
referenced standards in Table P3002.3, ASTM A
74 for hub and spigot fittings or ASTM A 888 or
CTSPI 301 for hubless fittings.
P3005.2.10 Cleanout equivalent. A fixture trap or a fix-
ture with integral trap, readily removable without disturb-
ing concealed piping shall be acceptable as a cleanout
equivalent.
P3005.2.11 Connections to cleanouts prohibited. Clean-
out openings shall not be used for the installation of new
fixtures except where approved and an acceptable alter-
nate cleanout is provided.
P3005.3 Horizontal drainage piping slope. Horizontal
drainage piping shall be installed in uniform alignment at uni-
form slopes not less than V 4 unit vertical in 12 units horizon-
tal (2-percent slope) for 2'/ 2 inch (64 mm) diameter and less,
and not less than 7 8 unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (1-per-
cent slope) for diameters of 3 inches (76 mm) or more.
P3005.4 Drain pipe sizing. Drain pipes shall be sized
according to drainage fixture unit (d.f.u.) loads. The size of
the drainage piping shall not be reduced in size in the direc-
tion of flow. The following general procedure is permitted to
be used:
1. Draw an isometric layout or riser diagram denoting fix-
tures on the layout.
2. Assign d.f.u. values to each fixture group plus individ-
ual fixtures using Table P3004. 1.
3. Starting with the top floor or most remote fixtures,
work downstream toward the building drain accumu-
lating d.f.u. values for fixture groups plus individual
fixtures for each branch. Where multiple bath groups
are being added, use the reduced d.f.u. values in Table
P3004.1, which take into account probability factors of
simultaneous use.
4. Size branches and stacks by equating the assigned d.f.u.
values to pipe sizes shown in Table P3005.4.1.
5. Determine the pipe diameter and slope of the building
drain and building sewer based on the accumulated
d.f.u. values, using Table P3005.4.2.
P3005.4.1 Branch and stack sizing. Branches and stacks
shall be sized in accordance with Table P3005.4.1. Below
grade drain pipes shall be not less than 1 V 2 inches (38 mm)
in diameter. Drain stacks shall be not smaller than the larg-
est horizontal branch connected.
Exceptions:
1. A 4-inch by 3-inch (102 mm by 76 mm) closet
bend or flange.
2. A 4-inch (102 mm) closet bend connected to a 3-
inch (76 mm) stack tee shall not be prohibited.
TABLE P3005.4.1
MAXIMUM FIXTURE UNITS ALLOWED TO BE
CONNECTED TO BRANCHES AND STACKS
NOMINAL PIPE SIZE
(inches)
ANY HORIZONTAL
FIXTURE BRANCH
ANY ONE VERTICAL
STACK OR DRAIN
17/
—
—
l7 2 b
3
4
2 b
6
10
2V
12
20
3
20
48
4
160
240
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. 1 V 4 -inch pipe size limited to a single-fixture drain or trap arm. See Table
P3201.7.
b. No water closets.
P3005.4.2 Building drain and sewer size and slope. Pipe
sizes and slope shall be determined from Table P3005.4.2
on the basis of drainage load in fixture units (d.f.u.) com-
puted from Table P3004. 1 .
TABLE P3005.4.2
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF FIXTURE UNITS ALLOWED
TO BE CONNECTED TO THE BUILDING DRAIN,
BUILDING DRAIN BRANCHES OR THE BUILDING SEWER
DIAMETER OF
PIPE (inches)
SLOPE PER FOOT
V a inch
7„inch
V 2 inch
l7/- b
—
Note a
Note a
2 b
—
21
27
27,"
—
24
31
3
36
42
50
4
180
216
250
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. 1 '/ 2 -inch pipe size limited to a building drain branch serving not more than
two waste fixtures, or not more than one waste fixture if serving a pumped
discharge fixture or garbage grinder discharge.
b. No water closets.
658
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
SANITARY DRAINAGE
P3005.5 Connections to offsets and bases of stacks. Hori-
zontal branches shall connect to the bases of stacks at a point
located not less than 10 times the diameter of the drainage
stack downstream from the stack. Horizontal branches shall
connect to horizontal stack offsets at a point located not less
than 10 times the diameter of the drainage stack downstream
from the upper stack.
SECTION P3006
SIZING OF DRAIN PIPE OFFSETS
P3006.1 Vertical offsets. An offset in a vertical drain, with a
change of direction of 45 degrees (0.79 rad) or less from the
vertical, shall be sized as a straight vertical drain.
P3006.2 Horizontal offsets above the lowest branch. A
stack with an offset of more than 45 degrees (0.79 rad) from
the vertical shall be sized as follows:
1. The portion of the stack above the offset shall be sized
as for a regular stack based on the total number of fix-
ture units above the offset.
2. The offset shall be sized as for a building drain in
accordance with Table P3005.4.2.
3. The portion of the stack below the offset shall be sized
as for the offset or based on the total number of fixture
units on the entire stack, whichever is larger.
P3006.3 Horizontal offsets below the lowest branch. In soil
or waste stacks below the lowest horizontal branch, there
shall be no change in diameter required if the offset is made
at an angle not greater than 45 degrees (0.79 rad) from the
vertical. If an offset greater than 45 degrees (0.79 rad) from
the vertical is made, the offset and stack below it shall be
sized as a building drain (see Table P3005.4.2).
SECTION P3007
SUMPS AND EJECTORS
P3007.1 Building subdrains. Building subdrains that cannot
be discharged to the sewer by gravity flow shall be dis-
charged into a tightly covered and vented sump from which
the liquid shall be lifted and discharged into the building
gravity drainage system by automatic pumping equipment or
other approved method. In other than existing structures, the
sump shall not receive drainage from any piping within the
building capable of being discharged by gravity to the build-
ing sewer.
P3007.2 Valves required. A check valve and a full open
valve located on the discharge side of the check valve shall be
installed in the pump or ejector discharge piping between the
pump or ejector and the gravity drainage system. Access shall
be provided to such valves. Such valves shall be located
above the sump cover required by Section P3007.3.2 or,
where the discharge pipe from the ejector is below grade, the
valves shall be accessibly located outside the sump below
grade in an access pit with a removable access cover.
P3007.3 Sump design. The sump pump, pit and discharge
piping shall conform to the requirements of Sections
P3007.3.1 through P3007.3.5.
P3007.3.1 Sump pump. The sump pump capacity and
head shall be appropriate to anticipated use requirements.
P3007.3.2 Sump pit. The sump pit shall be not less than
18 inches (457 mm) in diameter and 24 inches (610 mm)
deep, unless otherwise approved. The pit shall be accessi-
ble and located so that all drainage flows into the pit by
gravity. The sump pit shall be constructed of tile, concrete,
steel, plastic or other approved materials. The pit bottom
shall be solid and provide permanent support for the
pump. The sump pit shall be fitted with a gastight remov-
able cover adequate to support anticipated loads in the area
of use. The sump pit shall be vented in accordance with
Chapter 31.
P3007.3.3 Discharge pipe and fittings. Discharge pipe
and fittings serving sump pumps and ejectors shall be con-
structed of materials in accordance with Sections
P3007.3.3.1 and P3007.3.3.2 and shall be approved.
P3007.3.3.1 Materials. Pipe and fitting materials shall
be constructed of brass, copper, CPVC, ductile iron,
PE,orPVC.
P3007.3.3.2 Ratings. Pipe and fittings shall be rated
for the maximum system operating pressure and tem-
perature. Pipe fitting materials shall be compatible
with the pipe material. Where pipe and fittings are bur-
ied in the earth, they shall be suitable for burial.
P3007.3.4 Maximum effluent level. The effluent level
control shall be adjusted and maintained to at all times
prevent the effluent in the sump from rising to within 2
inches (5 1 mm) of the invert of the gravity drain inlet into
the sump.
P3007.3.5 Ejector connection to the drainage system.
Pumps connected to the drainage system shall connect to a
building sewer, building drain, soil stack, waste stack or I
horizontal branch drain. Where the discharge line connects j
into horizontal drainage piping, the connection shall be
made through a wye fitting into the top of the drainage
piping and such wye fitting shall be located not less than |
10 pipe diameters from the base of any soil stack, waste j
stack or fixture drain. |
P3007.4 Sewage pumps and sewage ejectors. A sewage
pump or sewage ejector shall automatically discharge the
contents of the sump to the building drainage system.
P3007.5 Macerating toilet systems. Macerating toilet sys-
tems shall comply with CSA B45.9 or ASME Al 12.3.4 and
shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's
installation instructions.
P3007.6 Capacity. A sewage pump or sewage ejector shall
have the capacity and head for the application requirements.
Pumps or ejectors that receive the discharge of water closets
shall be capable of handling spherical solids with a diameter
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
659
SANITARY DRAINAGE
of up to and including 2 inches (51 mm). Other pumps or
ejectors shall be capable of handling spherical solids with a
diameter of up to and including 1 inch (25.4 mm). The mini-
mum capacity of a pump or ejector based on the diameter of
the discharge pipe shall be in accordance with Table 3007.6.
Exceptions:
1. Grinder pumps or grinder ejectors that receive the
discharge of water closets shall have a minimum
discharge opening of 1V 4 inches (32 mm).
2. Macerating toilet assemblies that serve single water
closets shall have a minimum discharge opening of
3 / 4 inch (19 mm).
TABLE 3007.6
MINIMUM CAPACITY OF SEWAGE PUMP OR SEWAGE EJECTOR
DIAMETER OF THE DISCHARGE
PIPE
(inches)
CAPACITY OF PUMP OR EJECTOR
(3Pm)
2
21
2V 2
30
3
46
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m.
SECTION P3008
BACKWATER VALVES
P3008.1 Sewage backflow. Where the flood level rims of
plumbing fixtures are below the elevation of the manhole
cover of the next upstream manhole in the public sewer, the
fixtures shall be protected by a backwater valve installed in
the building drain, branch of the building drain or horizontal
branch serving such fixtures. Plumbing fixtures having flood
level rims above the elevation of the manhole cover of the
next upstream manhole in the public sewer shall not dis-
charge through a backwater valve.
P3008.2 Material. All bearing parts of backwater valves
shall be of corrosion-resistant material. Backwater valves
shall comply with ASME Al 12.14.1, CSA B 181.1 or CSA
B181.2.
P3008.3 Seal. Backwater valves shall be constructed to pro-
vide a mechanical seal against backflow.
P3008.4 Diameter. Backwater valves, when fully opened,
shall have a capacity not less than that of the pipes in which
they are installed.
P3008.5 Location. Backwater valves shall be installed so
that access is provided to the working parts for service and
repair.
SECTION P3009
GRAY WATER RECYCLING SYSTEMS
P3009.1 Scope. The provisions of Section P3009 shall govern
the materials, design, construction and installation of gray
water systems for flushing of water closets and urinals and for
subsurface landscape irrigation. See Figures P3009.1(l) and
P3009.1(2).
P3009.2 Installation. In addition to the provisions of Section
P3009, systems for flushing of water closets and urinals shall
comply with Section P3009.13 and systems for subsurface
landscape irrigation shall comply with Section P3009.14.
Except as provided for in Section P3009, all systems shall com-
ply with the provisions of the other sections of this code.
P3009.3 Materials. Above-ground drain, waste and vent piping for
gray water systems shall conform to one of the standards listed in
Table P3002.1(l). Gray water underground building drainage and
vent pipe shall conform to one of the standards listed in Table
P3002.1(2).
P3009.4 Tests. Drain, waste and vent piping for gray water sys-
tems shall be tested in accordance with Section P2503.
P3009.5 Inspections. Gray water systems shall be inspected in
accordance with Section P2503.
P3009.6 Potable water connections. Only connections in
accordance with Section 3009.13.1 shall be made between a
gray water recycling system and a potable water system.
P3009.7 Waste water connections. Gray water recycling sys-
tems shall receive only the waste discharge of bathtubs, show-
ers, lavatories, clothes washers or laundry trays.
P3009.8 Collection reservoir. Gray water shall be collected
in an approved reservoir constructed of durable, nonabsorbent
and corrosion-resistant materials. The reservoir shall be a
closed and gas-tight vessel. Access openings shall be provided
to allow inspection and cleaning of the reservoir interior.
P3009.9 Filtration. Gray water entering the reservoir shall
pass through an approved filter such as a media, sand or dia-
tomaceous earth filter.
P3009.9.1 Required valve. A full-open valve shall be
installed downstream of the last fixture connection to the
gray water discharge pipe before entering the required fil-
ter.
P3009.10 Overflow. The collection reservoir shall be equipped
with an overflow pipe having the same or larger diameter as the
influent pipe for the gray water. The overflow pipe shall be
trapped and shall be indirectly connected to the sanitary drain-
age system.
P3009.ll Drain. A drain shall be located at the lowest point
of the collection reservoir and shall be indirectly connected to
the sanitary drainage system. The drain shall be the same diam-
eter as the overflow pipe required in Section P3009.10.
P3009.12 Vent required. The reservoir shall be provided
with a vent sized in accordance with Chapter 31 and based on
the diameter of the reservoir influent pipe.
P3009.13 Flushing water systems. Systems for flushing water
closets and urinals shall comply with Sections P3009.13.1
through P3009. 13.6
P3009.13.1 Collection reservoir. The holding capacity of
the reservoir shall be a minimum of twice the volume of
water required to meet the daily flushing requirements of the
fixtures supplied with gray water, but not less than 50 gallons
(189 L). The reservoir shall be sized to limit the retention
time of gray water to a maximum of 72 hours.
660
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
SANITARY DRAINAGE
POTABLE
MAKEUP
WATER
SUPPLY
~\
— [x] —
BACKFLOW
PREVENTION
DEVICE
GRAY WATER
INFLUENT
I— -{xH
FILTER
SYSTEM
TANK-^
DRAIN \
HXH
VENT
GRAY WATER
RESERVOIR
\
OVERFLOW
INDIRECT DISCHARGE
~\J I ^ TO S AN ITARY
v ' DRAINAGE
SYSTEM
HXH
- INDIRECT DISCHARGE
TO SANITARY DRAINAGE
SYSTEM
EFFLUENT TO
FLUSHING FIXTURES
DISINFECTION
UNIT
COLORING
DYE INJECTION
UNIT
FIGURE P3009.1(1)
GRAY WATER RECYCLING SYSTEM FOR FLUSHING WATER CLOSETS AND URINALS
GRAY WATER
INFLUENT
-£X] FILTER
SYSTEM
TANK-\
DRAIN \
rixH
VENT
GRAY WATER
RESERVOIR
\
OVERFLOW
I* 1
INDIRECT DISCHARGE
~\T~] i TO SAN ITARY
"~ ' ' DRAINAGE
SYSTEM
-KHxJ
I
CHECK VALVE
■INDIRECT DISCHARGE
TO SANITARY DRAINAGE
SYSTEM
IRRIGATION ZONE
IRRIGATION ZONE
IRRIGATION ZONE
FIGURE P3009.1 (2)
GRAY WATER RECYCLING SYSTEM FOR SUBSURFACE LANDSCAPE IRRIGATION
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
661
SANITARY DRAINAGE
P3009.13.2 Disinfection. Gray water shall be disinfected by
an approved method that employs one or more disinfec-
tants such as chlorine, iodine or ozone that are recom-
mended for use with the pipes, fittings and equipment by
the manufacturer of the pipes, fittings and equipment.
P3009.13.3 Makeup water. Potable water shall be supplied
as a source of makeup water for the gray water system. The
potable water supply shall be protected against backflow in
accordance with Section P2902. There shall be a full-open
valve located on the makeup water supply line to the col-
lection reservoir.
P3009.13.4 Coloring. The gray water shall be dyed blue or
green with a food-grade vegetable dye before such water is
supplied to the fixtures.
P3009.13.5 Materials. Distribution piping shall conform to
one of the standards listed in Table P2905.4.
P3009.13.6 Identification. Distribution piping and reser-
voirs shall be identified as containing nonpotable water. Pip-
ing identification shall be in accordance with Section
P2901.1.
P3009.14 Landscape irrigation systems. Subsurface landscape
irrigation systems shall comply with Sections P3009.14.1
through P3009. 14. 11
P3009.14.1 Collection reservoir. Reservoirs shall be sized to
limit the retention time of gray water to a maximum of 24
hours.
P3009.14.1.1 Identification. The reservoir shall be identi-
fied as containing nonpotable water.
P3009.14.2 Valves required. A check valve and a full-open
valve located on the discharge side of the check valve shall
be installed on the effluent pipe of the collection reservoir.
P3009.14.3 Makeup water. Makeup water shall not be
required for subsurface landscape irrigation systems. Where
makeup water is provided, the installation shall be in accor-
dance with Section 3009.13.3.
P3009.14.4 Disinfection. Disinfection shall not be required
for gray water used or subsurface landscape irrigation sys-
tems.
P3009.14.5 Coloring. Gray water used for subsurface land-
scape irrigation systems shall not be required to be dyed.
P3009.14.6 Estimating gray water discharge. The system
shall be sized in accordance with the gallons-per-day-per-
occupant number based on the type of fixtures connected to
the gray water system. The discharge shall be calculated by
the following equation:
(Equation 30-1)
where:
C = A x B
A = Number of occupants:
Number of occupants shall be determined by the actual
number of occupants, but not less than two occupants for
one bedroom and one occupant for each additional
bedroom.
B = Estimated flow demands for each occupant:
Residential — 25 gallons per day (94.6 lpd) per
occupant for showers, bathtubs and lavatories and
15 gallons per day (56.7 lpd) per occupant for
clothes washers or laundry trays.
C - Estimated gray water discharge based on the total
number of occupants.
P3009.14.7 Percolation tests. The permeability of the soil in
the proposed absorption system shall be determined by per-
colation tests or permeability evaluation.
P3009.14.7.1 Percolation tests and procedures. At least
three percolation tests in each system area shall be con-
ducted. The holes shall be spaced uniformly in relation to
the bottom depth of the proposed absorption system.
More percolation tests shall be made where necessary,
depending on system design.
P3009.14.7.1.1 Percolation test hole. The test hole
shall be dug or bored. The test hole shall have vertical
sides and a horizontal dimension of 4 inches to 8
inches (102 mm to 203 mm). The bottom and sides
of the hole shall be scratched with a sharp-pointed
instrument to expose the natural soil. All loose material
shall be removed from the hole and the bottom shall be
covered with 2 inches (51 mm) of gravel or coarse
sand.
P3009.14.7.1.2 Test procedure, sandy soils. The
hole shall be filled with clear water to a minimum of
12 inches (305 mm) above the bottom of the hole for
tests in sandy soils. The time for this amount of water
to seep away shall be determined, and this procedure
shall be repeated if the water from the second filling of
the hole seeps away in 10 minutes or less. The test
shall proceed as follows: Water shall be added to a
point not more than 6 inches (152 mm) above the
gravel or coarse sand. Thereupon, from a fixed refer-
ence point, water levels shall be measured at 10-minute
intervals for a period of 1 hour. Where 6 inches (152
mm) of water seeps away in less than 10 minutes, a
shorter interval between measurements shall be used,
but in no case shall the water depth exceed 6 inches
(152 mm). Where 6 inches (152 mm) of water seeps
away in less than 2 minutes, the test shall be stopped
and a rate of less than 3 minutes per inch (7.2 s/mm)
shall be reported. The final water level drop shall be
used to calculate the percolation rate. Soils not meet-
ing the above requirements shall be tested in accor-
dance with Section 3009.14.7.1.3.
P3009. 14.7. 1.3 Test procedure, other soils. The
hole shall be filled with clear water, and a minimum
water depth of 12 inches (305 mm) shall be main-
tained above the bottom of the hole for a 4-hour
period by refilling whenever necessary or by use of an
automatic siphon. Water remaining in the hole after 4
hours shall not be removed. Thereafter, the soil shall
be allowed to swell not less than 16 hours or more
than 30 hours. Immediately after the soil swelling
period, the measurements for determining the percola-
tion rate shall be made as follows: Any soil sloughed
into the hole shall be removed and the water level
662
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
SANITARY DRAINAGE
shall be adjusted to 6 inches (152 mm) above the
gravel or coarse sand. Thereupon, from a fixed refer-
ence point, the water level shall be measured at 30-
minute intervals for a period of 4 hours, unless two
successive water level drops do not vary by more than
7, 6 inch (1.59 mm). At least three water level drops
shall be observed and recorded. The hole shall be
filled with clear water to a point not more than 6
inches (152 mm) above the gravel or coarse sand
whenever it becomes nearly empty. Adjustments of
the water level shall not be made during the three
measurement periods except to the limits of the last
measured water level drop. When the first 6 inches
(152 mm) of water seeps away in less than 30 min-
utes, the time interval between measurements shall be
10 minutes and the test run for 1 hour. The water depth
shall not exceed 5 inches (127 mm) at any time during
the measurement period. The drop that occurs during
tire final measurement period shall be used in calculat-
ing the percolation rate.
P3009.14.7.1.4 Mechanical test equipment. Mechan-
ical percolation test equipment shall be of an
approved type.
P3009.14.7.2 Permeability evaluation. Soil shall be
evaluated for estimated percolation based on structure and
texture in accordance with accepted soil evaluation prac-
tices. Borings shall be made in accordance with Section
P3009. 14.7.1 for evaluating the soil.
P3009.14.8 Subsurface landscape irrigation site location.
The surface grade of all soil absorption systems shall be
located at a point lower than the surface grade of any water
well or reservoir on the same or adjoining lot. Where this is
not possible, the site shall be located so that surface water
drainage from the site is not directed toward a well or reser-
voir. The soil absorption system shall be located with a min-
imum horizontal distance between various elements as
indicated in Table P3009.14.8. Private sewage disposal sys-
tems in compacted areas, such as parking lots and drive-
ways, are prohibited. Surface water shall be diverted away
from any soil absorption site on the same or neighboring
lots.
TABLE P3009.1 4.8
LOCATION OF GRAY WATER SYSTEM
ELEMENT
MINIMUM HORIZONTAL DISTANCE
HOLDING TANK
(feet)
IRRIGATION
DISPOSAL FIELD
(feet)
Buildings
5
2
Property line adjoining
private property
5
5
Public water main
10
10
Seepage pits
5
5
Septic tanks
5
Streams and lakes
50
50
Water service
5
5
Water wells
50
100
P3009.14.9 Installation. Absoiption systems shall be
installed in accordance with Sections P3009. 14.9.1 through
P3009. 14.9.5 to provide landscape irrigation without sur-
facing of gray water.
P3009. 14.9.1 Absorption area. The total absorption area
required shall be computed from the estimated daily gray
water discharge and the design-loading rate based on the
percolation rate for the site. The required absorption area
equals the estimated gray water discharge divided by the
design-loading rate from Table P3009. 14.9. 1 .
TABLE P3009.1 4.9.1
DESIGN LOADING RATE
PERCOLATION RATE
(minutes per inch)
DESIGN LOADING FACTOR
(gallons per square foot per day)
to less than 10
1.2
10 to less than 30
0.8
30 to less than 45
0.72
45 to 60
0.4
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
For SI: 1 minute per inch = min/25.4 mm,
1 gallon per square foot = 40.7 L/m 2 .
P3009. 14.9.2 Seepage trench excavations. Seepage
trench excavations shall be a minimum of 1 foot (304
mm) to a maximum of 5 feet (1524 mm) wide. Trench
excavations shall be spaced a minimum of 2 feet (610
mm) apart. The soil absorption area of a seepage trench
shall be computed by using the bottom of the trench area
(width) multiplied by the length of pipe. Individual seep-
age trenches shall be a maximum of 100 feet (30 480
mm) in developed length.
P3009.14.9.3 Seepage bed excavations. Seepage bed
excavations shall be a minimum of 5 feet (1524 mm) wide
and have more than one distribution pipe. The absorp-
tion area of a seepage bed shall be computed by using the
bottom of the trench area. Distribution piping in a seep-
age bed shall be uniformly spaced a maximum of 5 feet
(1524 mm) and a minimum of 3 feet (914 mm) apart, and
a maximum of 3 feet (914 mm) and a minimum of 1
foot (305 mm) from the sidewall or headwall.
P3009.14.9.4 Excavation and construction. The bot-
tom of a trench or bed excavation shall be level. Seepage
trenches or beds shall not be excavated where the soil is
so wet that such material rolled between the hands forms
a soil wire. All smeared or compacted soil surfaces in
the sidewalls or bottom of seepage trench or bed exca-
vations shall be scarified to the depth of smearing or
compaction and the loose material removed. Where
rain falls on an open excavation, the soil shall be left until
sufficiently dry so a soil wire will not form when soil
from the excavation bottom is rolled between the hands.
The bottom area shall then be scarified and loose mate-
rial removed.
P3009. 14.9.5 Aggregate and backfill. A minimum of 6
inches (152 mm) of aggregate ranging in size from V 2 inch
to 2'/ 2 inches (12.7 mm to 64 mm) shall be laid into the
trench below the distribution piping elevation. The aggre-
gate shall be evenly distributed a minimum of 2 inches
(5 1 mm) over the top of the distribution pipe. The aggre-
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
663
SANITARY DRAINAGE
gate shall be covered with approved synthetic materials
or 9 inches (229 mm) of uncompacted marsh hay or straw.
Building paper shall not be used to cover the aggregate. A
minimum of 9 inches (229 mm) of soil backfill shall be
provided above the covering.
P3009.14.10 Distribution piping. Distribution piping shall
be not less than 3 inches (76 mm) in diameter. Materials shall
comply with Table P3009.14.10. The top of the distribution
pipe shall be not less than 8 inches (203 mm) below the orig-
inal surface. The slope of the distribution pipes shall be a
minimum of 2 inches (51 mm) and a maximum of 4 inches
(102 mm) per 100 feet (30 480 mm).
TABLE P3009.14.10
DISTRIBUTION PIPE
MATERIAL
STANDARD
Polyethylene (PE) plastic pipe
ASTM F 405
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic pipe
ASTM D 2729
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic pipe with a
3.5-inch O.D. and solid cellular core or
composite wall
ASTM F 1488
P3009.14.1 1 Joints. Joints in distribution pipe shall be made
in accordance with Section P3003.
664
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 31
SECTION P3101
VENT SYSTEMS
P3101.1 General. This chapter shall govern the selection and
installation of piping, tubing and fittings for vent systems.
This chapter shall control the minimum diameter of vent
pipes, circuit vents, branch vents and individual vents, and
the size and length of vents and various aspects of vent stacks
and stack vents. Additionally, this chapter regulates vent
grades and connections, height above fixtures and relief vents
for stacks and fixture traps, and the venting of sumps and
sewers.
P3101.2 Trap seal protection. The plumbing system shall be
provided with a system of vent piping that will permit the
admission or emission of air so that the seal of any fixture
trap shall not be subjected to a pneumatic pressure differen-
tial of more than 1 inch of water column (249 Pa).
P3101.2.1 Venting required. Every trap and trapped fix-
ture shall be vented in accordance with one of the venting
methods specified in this chapter.
P3101.3 Use limitations. The plumbing vent system shall not
be used for purposes other than the venting of the plumbing
system.
P3101.4 Extension outside a structure. In climates where
the 97.5-percent value for outside design temperature is 0°F
(-18°C) or less (ASHRAE 97.5-percent column, winter, see
Chapter 3), vent pipes installed on the exterior of the structure
shall be protected against freezing by insulation, heat or both.
Vent terminals shall be protected from frost closure in accor-
dance with Section P3 103.2.
P3101.5 Flood resistance. In flood hazard areas as estab-
lished by Table R30 1.2(1), vents shall be located at or above
the elevation required in Section R322.1 (flood hazard areas
including A Zones) or R322.2 (coastal high-hazard areas
including V Zones).
SECTION P3102
VENT STACKS AND STACK VENTS
P3 102.1 Required vent extension. The vent system serving
each building drain shall have at least one vent pipe that
extends to the outdoors.
P3102.2 Installation. The required vent shall be a dry vent
that connects to the building drain or an extension of a drain
that connects to the building drain. Such vent shall not be an
island fixture vent as permitted by Section P31 12.
P3102.3 Size. The required vent shall be sized in accordance
with Section P3 113.1 based on the required size of the build-
ing drain.
SECTION P3103
VENT TERMINALS
P3103.1 Roof extension. Open vent pipes that extend
through a roof shall be terminated not less than 6 inches (152
mm) above the roof or 6 inches (152 mm) above the antici-
pated snow accumulation, whichever is greater, except that
where a roof is to be used for any purpose other than weather
protection, the vent extension shall be ran not less than 7 feet
(2134 mm) above the roof.
P3103.2 Frost closure. Where the 97.5-percent value for out-
side design temperature is 0°F (-18°C) or less, every vent
extension through a roof or wall shall be not less than 3
inches (76 mm) in diameter. Any increase in the size of the
vent shall be made inside the structure not less than 1 foot
(305 mm) below the roof or inside the wall.
P3103.3 Flashings and sealing. The juncture of each vent
pipe with the roof line shall be made water tight by an
approved flashing. Vent extensions in walls and soffits shall
be made weather tight by caulking.
P3103.4 Prohibited use. A vent terminal shall not be used
for any purpose other than a vent terminal.
P3103.5 Location of vent terminal. An open vent terminal
from a drainage system shall not be located less than 4 feet
(1219 mm) directly beneath any door, openable window, or
other air intake opening of the building or of an adjacent
building, nor shall any such vent terminal be within 10 feet
(3048 mm) horizontally of such an opening unless it is not
less than 3 feet (914 mm) above the top of such opening
P3103.6 Extension through the wall. Vent terminals
extending through the wall shall terminate not less than 10
feet (3048 mm) from the lot line and 10 feet (3048 mm)
above the highest adjacent grade within 10 feet (3048 mm)
horizontally of the vent terminal. Vent terminals shall not ter-
minate under the overhang of a structure with soffit vents.
Side wall vent terminals shall be protected to prevent birds or
rodents from entering or blocking the vent opening.
SECTION P31 04
VENT CONNECTIONS AND GRADES
P3104.1 Connection. All individual branch and circuit vents
shall connect to a vent stack, stack vent or extend to the open
air.
Exception: Individual, branch and circuit vents shall be
permitted to terminate at an air admittance valve in accor-
dance with Section P3 1 14.
P3104.2 Grade. Vent and branch vent pipes shall be graded,
connected and supported to allow moisture and condensate to
drain back to the soil or waste pipe by gravity.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
665
VENTS
P3104.3 Vent connection to drainage system. A dry vent
connecting to a horizontal drain shall connect above the cen-
terline of the horizontal drain pipe.
P3104.4 Vertical rise of vent. A dry vent shall rise vertically
to not less than 6 inches (152 mm) above the flood level rim
of the highest trap or trapped fixture being vented.
P3104.5 Height above fixtures. A connection between a
vent pipe and a vent stack or stack vent shall be made not less
than 6 inches (152 mm) above the flood level rim of the high-
est fixture served by the vent. Horizontal vent pipes forming
branch vents shall be not less than 6 inches (152 mm) above
the flood level rim of the highest fixture served.
P3 104.6 Vent for future fixtures. Where the drainage piping
has been roughed-in for future fixtures, a rough-in connection
for a vent, not less than one-half the diameter of the drain,
shall be installed. The vent rough-in shall connect to the vent
system or shall be vented by other means as provided in this
chapter. The connection shall be identified to indicate that the
connection is a vent.
SECTION P3105
FIXTURE VENTS
P3105.1 Distance of trap from vent. Each fixture trap shall
have a protecting vent located so that the slope and the devel-
oped length in the fixture drain from the trap weir to the vent
fitting are within the requirements set forth in Table P3105.1.
Exception: The developed length of the fixture drain from
the trap weir to the vent fitting for self-siphoning fixtures,
such as water closets, shall not be limited.
TABLE P3105.1
MAXIMUM DISTANCE OF FIXTURE TRAP FROM VENT
SIZE OF TRAP
(inches)
SLOPE
(inch per foot)
DISTANCE FROM
TRAP (feet)
l'/ 4
v 4
5
17 2
v 4
6
2
%
8
3
%
12
4
'/,
16
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm,
1 inch per foot = 83.3 mm/m.
P3105.2 Fixture drains. The total fall in a fixture drain
resulting from pipe slope shall not exceed one pipe diameter,
nor shall the vent pipe connection to & fixture drain, except
for water closets, be below the weir of the trap.
P3105.3 Crown vent prohibited. A vent shall not be
installed within two pipe diameters of the trap weir.
SECTION P3106
INDIVIDUAL VENT
P3106.1 Individual vent permitted. Each trap and trapped
fixture shall be permitted to be provided with an individual
vent. The individual vent shall connect to the fixture drain of
the trap or trapped fixture being vented.
SECTION P3107
COMMON VENT
P3107.1 Individual vent as common vent. An individual
vent shall be permitted to vent two traps or trapped fixtures as
a common vent. The traps or trapped fixtures being common
vented shall be located on the same floor level.
P3107.2 Connection at the same level. Where the fixture
drains being common vented connect at the same level, the
vent connection shall be at the interconnection of the fixture
drains or downstream of the interconnection.
P3107.3 Connection at different levels. Where the fixture
drains connect at different levels, the vent shall connect as a
vertical extension of the vertical drain. The vertical drain pipe
connecting the two fixture drains shall be considered the vent
for the lower fixture drain, and shall be sized in accordance
with Table P3 107.3. The upper fixture shall not be a water
closet.
TABLE P31 07.3
COMMON VENT SIZES
PIPE SIZE
(inches)
MAXIMUM DISCHARGE FROM
UPPER FIXTURE DRAIN (d.f.u.)
1%
1
2
4
27 2 to3
6
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 i
SECTION P31 08
WET VENTING
P3108.1 Horizontal wet vent permitted. Any combination
of fixtures within two bathroom groups located on the same
floor level shall be permitted to be vented by a horizontal wet
vent. The wet vent shall be considered the vent for the fix-
tures and shall extend from the connection of the dry vent
along the direction of the flow in the drain pipe to the most
downstream fixture drain connection. Each fixture drain shall
connect horizontally to the horizontal branch being wet
vented or shall have a dry vent. Each wet- vented fixture drain
shall connect independently to the horizontal wet vent. Only
the fixtures within the bathroom groups shall connect to the
wet-vented horizontal branch drain. Any additional fixtures
shall discharge downstream of the horizontal wet vent.
P3108.2 Dry vent connection. The required dry-vent con-
nection for wet-vented systems shall comply with Sections
P3 1 08.2.1 and P3 108.2.2.
P3108.2.1 Horizontal wet vent. The dry-vent connection
for a horizontal wet-vent system shall be an individual
vent or a common vent for any bathroom group fixture,
except an emergency floor drain. Where the dry vent con-
nects to a water closet fixture drain, the drain shall connect
horizontally to the horizontal wet vent system. Not more
than one wet- vented fixture drain shall discharge upstream
of the dry-vented fixture drain connection.
P3108.2.2 Vertical wet vent. The dry-vent connection for
a vertical wet-vent system shall be an individual vent or
common vent for the most upstream fixture drain.
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VENTS
P3108.3 Size. Horizontal and vertical wet vents shall be not
less than the size as specified in Table P3 108.3, based on the
fixture unit discharge to the wet vent. The dry vent serving
the wet vent shall be sized based on the largest required diam-
eter of pipe within the wet-vent system served by the dry
vent.
TABLE P3108.3
WET VENT SIZE
TABLE P3109.4
WASTE STACK VENT SIZE
WET VENT PIPE SIZE
(inches)
FIXTURE UNIT LOAD
(d.f.u.)
17,
1
2
4
27 2
6
3
12
4
32
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
P3108.4 Vertical wet vent permitted. A combination of fix-
tures located on the same floor level shall be permitted to be
vented by a vertical wet vent. The vertical wet vent shall be
considered the vent for the fixtures and shall extend from the
connection of the dry vent down to the lowest fixture drain
connection. Each wet-vented fixture shall connect indepen-
dently to the vertical wet vent. All water closet drains shall
connect at the same elevation. Other fixture drains shall con-
nect above or at the same elevation as the water closet fixture
drains. The dry vent connection to the vertical wet vent shall
be an individual or common vent serving one or two fixtures.
P3108.5 Trap weir to wet vent distances. The maximum
developed length of wet-vented fixture drains shall comply
with Table P3 105.1.
SECTION P3109
WASTE STACK VENT
P3109.1 Waste stack vent permitted. A waste stack shall be
considered a vent for all of the fixtures discharging to the
stack where installed in accordance with the requirements of
this section.
P3109.2 Stack installation. The waste stack shall be vertical,
and both horizontal and vertical offsets shall be prohibited
between the lowest fixture drain connection and the highest
fixture drain connection to the stack. Every fixture drain shall
connect separately to the waste stack. The stack shall not
receive the discharge of water closets or urinals.
P3109.3 Stack vent. A stack vent shall be installed for the
waste stack. The size of the stack vent shall be not less than
the size of the waste stack. Offsets shall be permitted in the
stack vent and shall be located not less than 6 inches (152
mm) above the flood level of the highest fixture, and shall be
in accordance with Section P3 104.5. The stack vent shall be
permitted to connect with other stack vents and vent stacks in
accordance with Section P3 113.3.
P3109.4 Waste stack size. The waste stack shall be sized
based on the total discharge to the stack and the discharge
within a branch interval in accordance with Table P3 109.4.
The waste stack shall be the same size throughout the length
of the waste stack.
STACK SIZE
(inches)
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF FIXTURE UNITS (d.f.u.)
Total discharge into
one branch interval
Total discharge
for stack
17 2
1
2
2
2
4
27 2
No limit
8
3
No limit
24
4
No limit
50
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
SECTION P31 10
CIRCUIT VENTING
P3110.1 Circuit vent permitted. A maximum of eight fix-
tures connected to a horizontal branch drain shall be permit-
ted to be circuit vented. Each fixture drain shall connect
horizontally to the horizontal branch being circuit vented.
The horizontal branch drain shall be classified as a vent from
the most downstream fixture drain connection to the most
upstream fixture drain connection to the horizontal branch.
P3110.2 Vent connection. The circuit vent connection shall
be located between the two most upstream fixture drains. The
vent shall connect to the horizontal branch and shall be
installed in accordance with Section P3104. The circuit vent
pipe shall not receive the discharge of any soil or waste.
P3110.3 Slope and size of horizontal branch. The slope of
the vent section of the horizontal branch drain shall be not
greater than one unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (8-percent
slope). The entire length of the vent section of the horizontal
branch drain shall be sized for the total drainage discharge to
the branch in accordance with Table P3005.4. 1 .
P3110.4 Additional fixtures. Fixtures, other than the circuit
vented fixtures shall be permitted to discharge, to the hori-
zontal branch drain. Such fixtures shall be located on the
same floor as the circuit vented fixtures and shall be either
individually or common vented.
SECTION P31 1 1
COMBINATION WASTE AND VENT SYSTEM
P3111.1 Type of fixtures. A combination waste and vent
system shall not serve fixtures other than floor drains, sinks
and lavatories. A combination waste and vent system shall
not receive the discharge of a food waste grinder.
P3111.2 Installation. The only vertical pipe of a combina-
tion waste and vent system shall be the connection between
the fixture drain and the horizontal combination waste and
vent pipe. The vertical distance shall be not greater than 8 feet
(2438 mm).
P311 1.2.1 Slope. The horizontal combination waste and
vent pipe shall have a slope of not greater than 7 2 unit ver-
tical in 12 units horizontal (4-percent slope). The mini-
mum slope shall be in accordance with Section P3005.3.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 9
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VENTS
P3 11 1.2.2 Connection. The combination waste and vent
pipe shall connect to a horizontal drain that is vented or a
vent shall connect to the combination waste and vent. The
vent connecting to the combination waste and vent pipe
shall extend vertically not less than 6 inches (152 mm)
above the flood level rim of the highest fixture being
vented before offsetting horizontally.
P3111.2.3 Vent size. The vent shall be sized for the total
fixture unit load in accordance with Section P31 1 3.1 .
P311 1.2.4 Fixture branch or drain. The fixture branch
or fixture drain shall connect to the combination waste and
vent within a distance specified in Table P3 105.1. The
combination waste and vent pipe shall be considered the
vent for the fixture.
P3111.3 Size. The size of a combination drain and vent pipe
shall be not less than that specified in Table 311 1.3. The hori-
zontal length of a combination drain and vent system shall be
unlimited.
TABLE P311 1.3
SIZE OF COMBINATION WASTE AND VENT PIPE
DIAMETER PIPE
(inches)
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF FIXTURE UNITS (d.f.u.)
Connecting to a
horizontal branch
or stack
Connecting to a
building drain or
building subdrain
2
3
4
27 2
6
26
3
12
31
4
20
50
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
SECTION P3112
ISLAND FIXTURE VENTING
P3112.1 Limitation. Island fixture venting shall not be per-
mitted for fixtures other than sinks and lavatories. Kitchen
sinks with a dishwasher waste connection, a food waste
grinder, or both, in combination with the kitchen sink waste,
shall be permitted to be vented in accordance with this sec-
tion.
P3U2.2 Vent connection. The island fixture vent shall con-
nect to the fixture drain as required for an individual or com-
mon vent. The vent shall rise vertically to above the drainage
outlet of the fixture being vented before offsetting horizon-
tally or vertically downward. The vent or branch vent for
multiple island fixture vents shall extend not less than 6
inches (152 mm) above the highest island fixture being
vented before connecting to the outside vent terminal.
P3112.3 Vent installation below the fixture flood level
rim. The vent located below the flood level rim of the fixture
being vented shall be installed as required for drainage piping
in accordance with Chapter 30, except for sizing. The vent
shall be sized in accordance with Section P31 13.1. The low-
est point of the island fixture vent shall connect full size to
the drainage system. The connection shall be to a vertical
drain pipe or to the top half of a horizontal drain pipe. Clea-
nouts shall be provided in the island fixture vent to permit
rodding of all vent piping located below the flood level rim of
the fixtures. Rodding in both directions shall be permitted
through a cleanout.
SECTION P31 13
VENT PIPE SIZING
P3113.1 Size of vents. The required diameter of individual
vents, branch vents, circuit vents, vent stacks and stack vents
shall be not less than one-half the required diameter of the
drain served. The required size of the drain shall be deter-
mined in accordance with Chapter 30. Vent pipes shall be not
less than 1 V 4 inches (32 mm) in diameter. Vents exceeding 40
feet (12 192 mm) in developed length shall be increased by
one nominal pipe size for the entire developed length of the
vent pipe.
P3113.2 Developed length. The developed length of individ-
ual, branch, and circuit vents shall be measured from the far-
thest point of vent connection to the drainage system, to the
point of connection to the vent stack, stack vent or termina-
tion outside of the building.
P3113.3 Branch vents. Where branch vents are connected to
a common branch vent, the common branch vent shall be
sized in accordance with this section, based on the size of the
common horizontal drainage branch that is or would be
required to serve the total drainage fixture unit (d.f.u.) load
being vented.
P3113.4 Sump vents. Sump vent sizes shall be determined in
accordance with Sections P31 13.4.1 and P3113.4.2.
P3113.4.1 Sewage pumps and sewage ejectors other
than pneumatic. Drainage piping below sewer level shall
be vented in the same manner as that of a gravity system.
Building sump vent sizes for sumps with sewage pumps or
sewage ejectors, other than pneumatic, shall be determined
in accordance with Table P3113.4.1.
P3113.4.2 Pneumatic sewage ejectors. The air pressure
relief pipe from a pneumatic sewage ejector shall be con-
nected to an independent vent stack terminating as
required for vent extensions through the roof. The relief
pipe shall be sized to relieve air pressure inside the ejector
to atmospheric pressure, but shall not be less than l'/ 4
inches (32 mm) in size.
SECTION P31 14
AIR ADMITTANCE VALVES
P3114.1 General. Vent systems using air admittance valves
shall comply with this section. Individual and branch-type air
admittance valves shall conform to ASSE 1051. Stack-type
air admittance valves shall conform to ASSE 1050.
P3114.2 Installation. The valves shall be installed in accor-
dance with the requirements of this section and the manufac-
turer's instructions. Air admittance valves shall be installed
after the DWV testing required by Section P2503.5.1 or
P2503.5.2 has been performed.
P3 114.3 Where permitted. Individual vents, branch vents,
circuit vents and stack vents shall be permitted to terminate
with a connection to an air admittance valve. Individual and
668
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
VENTS
branch type air admittance valves shall vent only fixtures that
are on the same floor level and connect to a horizontal branch
drain.
P3114.4 Location. Individual and branch air admittance
valves shall be located not less than 4 inches (102 mm) above
the horizontal branch drain or fixture drain being vented.
Stack-type air admittance valves shall be located not less than
6 inches (152 mm) above the flood level rim of the highest
fixture being vented. The air admittance valve shall be
located within the maximum developed length permitted for
the vent. The air admittance valve shall be installed not less
than 6 inches (152 mm) above insulation materials where
installed in attics.
P3114.5 Access and ventilation. Access shall be provided to
all air admittance valves. The valve shall be located within a
ventilated space that allows air to enter the valve.
P3114.6 Size. The air admittance valve shall be rated for the
size of the vent to which the valve is connected.
P3114.7 Vent required. Within each plumbing system, not
less than one stack vent or a vent stack shall extend outdoors
to the open air.
P3114.8 Prohibited installations. Air admittance valves
without an engineered design shall not be used to vent sumps
or tanks of any type.
TABLE P31 13.4.1
SIZE AND LENGTH OF SUMP VENTS
DISCHARGE CAPACITY OF PUMP
(gpm)
MAXIMUM DEVELOPED LENGTH OF VENT (feet)"
Diameter of vent (inches)
1%
1V,
2
2%
3
10
No limit"
No limit
No limit
No limit
No limit
20
270
No limit
No limit
No limit
No limit
40
72
160
No limit
No limit
No limit
60
31
75
270
No limit
No limit
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute (gpm) = 3.785 L/m.
a. Developed length plus an appropriate allowance for entrance losses and friction caused by fittings, changes in direction and diameter. Suggested allowances
shall be obtained from NBS Monograph 3 1 or other approved sources. An allowance of 50 percent of the developed length shall be assumed if a more precise
value is not available.
b. Actual values greater than 500 feet.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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670 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 32
rfAr©
SECTION P3201
FIXTURE TRAPS
P3201.1 Design of traps. Traps shall be of standard design,
shall have smooth uniform internal waterways, shall be self-
cleaning and shall not have interior partitions except where
integral with the fixture. Traps shall be constructed of lead,
cast iron, cast or drawn brass or approved plastic. Tubular
brass traps shall be not less than No. 20 gage (0.8 mm) thick-
ness. Solid connections, slip joints and couplings shall be per-
mitted to be used on the trap inlet, trap outlet, or within the
trap seal. Slip joints shall be accessible.
P3201.2 Trap seals and trap seal protection. Traps shall
have a liquid seal not less than 2 inches (51 mm) and not
more than 4 inches (102 mm). Traps for floor drains shall be
fitted with a trap primer or shall be of the deep seal design.
Trap seal primer valves shall connect to the trap at a point
above the level of the trap seal.
P3201.3 Trap setting and protection. Traps shall be set
level with respect to their water seals and shall be protected
from freezing. Trap seals shall be protected from siphonage,
aspiration or back pressure by an approved system of venting
(see Section P3 101).
P3201.4 Building traps. Building traps shall not be installed,
except in special cases where sewer gases are extremely cor-
rosive or noxious, as directed by the building official.
P3201.5 Prohibited trap designs. The following types of
traps are prohibited:
1. Bell traps.
2. Separate fixture traps with interior partitions, except
those lavatory traps made of plastic, stainless steel or
other corrosion-resistant material.
3. "S" traps.
4. Drum traps.
5. Trap designs with moving parts.
P3201.6 Number of fixtures per trap. Each plumbing fix-
ture shall be separately trapped by a water seal trap. The ver-
tical distance from the fixture outlet to the trap weir shall not
exceed 24 inches (610 mm) and the horizontal distance shall
not exceed 30 inches (762 mm) measured from the center line
of the fixture outlet to the centerline of the inlet of the trap.
The height of a clothes washer standpipe above a trap shall
conform to Section P2706.2. Fixtures shall not be double
trapped.
Exceptions:
1 . Fixtures that have integral traps.
2. A single trap shall be permitted to serve two or three
like fixtures limited to kitchen sinks, laundry tubs
and lavatories. Such fixtures shall be adjacent to
each other and located in the same room with a con-
tinuous waste arrangement. The trap shall be
installed at the center fixture where three fixtures are
installed. Common trapped fixture outlets shall be
not more than 30 inches (762 mm) apart.
3. Connection of a laundry tray waste line into a stand-
pipe for the automatic clothes-washer drain shall be
permitted in accordance with Section P2706.2.1.
P3201.7 Size of fixture traps. Fixture trap size shall be suffi-
cient to drain the fixture rapidly and not less than the size
indicated in Table P3201.7. A trap shall not be larger than the
drainage pipe into which the trap discharges.
TABLEP3201.7
SIZE OF TRAPS AND TRAP ARMS FOR PLUMBING FIXTURES
PLUMBING FIXTURE
TRAP SIZE
MINIMUM (inches)
Bathtub (with or without shower head and/or
whirlpool attachments)
17 2
Bidet
l'/ 4
Clothes washer standpipe
2
Dishwasher (on separate trap)
1V 2
Floor drain
2
Kitchen sink (one or two traps, with or
without dishwasher and garbage grinder)
17 2
Laundry tub (one or more compartments)
1V 2
Lavatory
1V 4
Shower (based on the total flow rate through
showerheads and bodysprays)
Flow rate:
5.7 gpm and less
More than 5.7 gpm up to 12.3 gpm
More than 12.3 gpm up to 25.8 gpm
More than 25.8 gpm up to 55.6 gpm
l'/ 2
2
3
4
Water closet
Note a
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Consult fixture standards for trap dimensions of specific bowls.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
671
672 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 33
STORM DRAINAGE
SECTION P3301
GENERAL
P3301.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall govern
the materials, design, construction and installation of storm
drainage.
SECTION P3302
SUBSOIL DRAINS
P3302.1 Subsoil drains. Subsoil drains shall be open-jointed,
horizontally split or perforated pipe conforming to one of the
standards listed in Table P3302.1. Such drains shall be not
less than 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter. Where the building
is subject to backwater, the subsoil drain shall be protected by
an accessibly located backwater valve. Subsoil drains shall
discharge to a trapped area drain, sump, dry well or approved
location above ground. The subsoil sump shall not be
required to have either a gas-tight cover or a vent. The sump
and pumping system shall comply with Section P3303.
P3303.1.3 Electrical. Electrical outlets shall meet the
requirements of Chapters 34 through 43.
P3303.1.4 Piping. Discharge piping shall meet the
requirements of Sections P3002.1, P3002.2, P3002.3 and
P3003. Discharge piping shall include an accessible full
flow check valve. Pipe and fittings shall be the same size
as, or larger than, pump discharge tapping.
SECTION P3303
SUMPS AND PUMPING SYSTEMS
P3303.1 Pumping system. The sump pump, pit and dis-
charge piping shall conform to Sections P3303.1.1 through
P3303.1.4.
P3303.1.1 Pump capacity and head. The sump pump
shall be of a capacity and head appropriate to anticipated
use requirements.
P3303.1.2 Sump pit. The sump pit shall be not less than
18 inches (457 mm) in diameter and 24 inches (610 mm)
deep, unless otherwise approved. The pit shall be accessi-
ble and located so that all drainage flows into the pit by
gravity. The sump pit shall be constructed of tile, steel,
plastic, cast-iron, concrete or other approved material,
with a removable cover adequate to support anticipated
loads in the area of use. The pit floor shall be solid and
provide permanent support for the pump.
TABLE P3302.1
SUBSOIL DRAIN PIPE
MATERIAL
STANDARD
Asbestos-cement pipe
ASTM C 508
Cast-iron pipe
ASTM A 74; ASTM A 888; CISPI 301
Polyethylene (PE) plastic pipe
ASTM F 405; CSA B 182.1 ; CSA B182.6; CSA B 182.8
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
Plastic pipe (type sewer pipe, PS25, PS50 or PS 100)
ASTM D 2729; ASTM F 891; CSA B182.2; CSA B182.4
Stainless steel drainage systems, Type 316L
ASMEA1 12.3.1
Vitrified clay pipe
ASTM C 4; ASTM C 700
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
673
674 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
Part VIII— Electrical
CHAPTER 34
ENcRAL REQUIRciVIENTS
This Electrical Part (Chapters 34 through 43) is produced and copyrighted by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
and is based on the 201 1 National Electrical Code' 1 ' (NEC 8 ) (NFPA 70®-201 1), copyright 2010, National Fire Protection Associ-
ation, all rights reserved. Use of the Electrical Part is pursuant to license with the NFPA.
The title National Electrical Code*, the acronym NEC® and the document number NFPA 70® are registered trademarks of the
National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, Massachusetts. See Appendix Q, International Residential Code Electrical Provi-
sions/National Electrical Code Cross Reference.
IMPORTANT NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER CONCERNING THE NEC AND THIS ELECTRICAL PART.
This Electrical Part is a compilation of provisions extracted from the 2011 edition of the NEC. The NEC, like all NFPA codes
and standards, is developed through a consensus standards development process approved by the American National Standards
Institute. This process brings together volunteers representing varied viewpoints and interests to achieve consensus on fire and
other safety issues. While the NFPA administers the process and establishes rales to promote fairness in the development of con-
sensus, it does not independently test, evaluate or verify the accuracy of any information or the soundness of any judgments con-
tained in its codes and standards.
The NFPA disclaims liability for any personal injury, property or other damages of any nature whatsoever, whether special,
indirect, consequential or compensatory, directly or indirectly resulting from the publication, use of, or reliance on the NEC or
this Electrical Part. The NFPA also makes no guaranty or warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of any information pub-
lished in these documents.
In issuing and making the NEC and this Electrical Part available, the NFPA is not undertaking to render professional or other
services for or on behalf of any person or entity. Nor is the NFPA undertaking to perform any duty owed by any person or entity
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For additional notices and disclaimers concerning NFPA codes and standards see www.nfpa.org/disclaimers.
SECTION E3401
GENERAL
E3401.1 Applicability. The provisions of Chapters 34
through 43 shall establish the general scope of the electrical
system and equipment requirements of this code. Chapters 34
through 43 cover those wiring methods and materials most
commonly encountered in the construction of one- and two-
family dwellings and structures regulated by this code. Other
wiring methods, materials and subject matter covered in
NFPA 70 are also allowed by this code.
E3401.2 Scope. Chapters 34 through 43 shall cover the
installation of electrical systems, equipment and components
indoors and outdoors that are within the scope of this code,
including services, power distribution systems, fixtures,
appliances, devices and appurtenances. Services within the
scope of this code shall be limited to 120/240- volt, 0- to 400-
ampere, single-phase systems. These chapters specifically
cover the equipment, fixtures, appliances, wiring methods
and materials that are most commonly used in the construc-
tion or alteration of one- and two-family dwellings and acces-
sory structures regulated by this code. The omission from
these chapters of any material or method of construction pro-
vided for in the referenced standard NFPA 70 shall not be
construed as prohibiting the use of such material or method of
construction. Electrical systems, equipment or components
not specifically covered in these chapters shall comply with
the applicable provisions of NFPA 70.
E3401.3 Not covered. Chapters 34 through 43 do not cover
the following:
1. Installations, including associated lighting, under the
exclusive control of communications utilities and elec-
tric utilities.
2. Services over 400 amperes.
E3401.4 Additions and alterations. Any addition or altera-
tion to an existing electrical system shall be made in confor-
mity to the provisions of Chapters 34 through 43. Where
additions subject portions of existing systems to loads
exceeding those permitted herein, such portions shall be
made to comply with Chapters 34 through 43.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
675
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
SECTION E3402
BUILDING STRUCTURE PROTECTION
E3402.1 Drilling and notching. Wood-framed structural
members shall not be drilled, notched or altered in any man-
ner except as provided for in this code.
E3402.2 Penetrations of fire-resistance-rated assemblies.
Electrical installations in hollow spaces, vertical shafts and
ventilation or air-handling ducts shall be made so that the
possible spread of fire or products of combustion will not be
| substantially increased. Electrical penetrations into or
through fire-resistance-rated walls, partitions, floors or ceil-
ings shall be protected by approved methods to maintain the
fire-resistance rating of the element penetrated. Penetrations
of fire-resistance-rated walls shall be limited as specified in
Section R3 17.3.
E3402.3 Penetrations of firestops and draftstops. Penetra-
tions through fire blocking and draftstopping shall be pro-
tected in an approved manner to maintain the integrity of the
element penetrated.
SECTION E3403
INSPECTION AND APPROVAL
E3403.1 Approval. Electrical materials, components and
equipment shall be approved.
E3403.2 Inspection required. New electrical work and parts
of existing systems affected by new work or alterations shall
be inspected by the building official to ensure compliance
with the requirements of Chapters 34 through 43.
E3403.3 Listing and labeling. Electrical materials, compo-
nents, devices, fixtures and equipment shall be listed for the
application, shall bear the label of an approved agency and
shall be installed, and used, or both, in accordance with the
manufacturer's installation instructions.
SECTION E3404
GENERAL EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
E3404.1 Voltages. Throughout Chapters 34 through 43, the
voltage considered shall be that at which the circuit operates.
E3404.2 Interrupting rating. Equipment intended to inter-
rupt current at fault levels shall have a minimum interrupting
rating of 10,000 amperes. Equipment intended to interrupt
current at levels other than fault levels shall have an interrupt-
| ing rating at nominal circuit voltage of not less than the cur-
rent that must be interrupted.
E3404.3 Circuit characteristics. The overcurrent protective
| devices, total impedance, equipment short-circuit current rat-
ings and other characteristics of the circuit to be protected
shall be so selected and coordinated as to permit the circuit
protective devices that are used to clear a fault to do so with-
| out extensive damage to the electrical equipment of the cir-
cuit. This fault shall be assumed to be either between two or
more of the circuit conductors or between any circuit conduc-
Itor and the equipment grounding conductors permitted in
Section E3908.8. Listed equipment applied in accordance
with its listing shall be considered to meet the requirements
of this section.
E3404.4 Enclosure types. Enclosures, other than surround-
ing fences or walls, of panelboards, meter sockets, enclosed 1
switches, transfer switches, circuit breakers, pullout switches [
and motor controllers, rated not over 600 volts nominal and
intended for such locations, shall be marked with an enclo-
sure-type number as shown in Table E3404.4. g
Table E3404.4 shall be used for selecting these enclosures I
for use in specific locations other than hazardous (classified)
locations. The enclosures are not intended to protect against
conditions such as condensation, icing, corrosion, or contam-
ination that might occur within the enclosure or enter through
the conduit or unsealed openings.
E3404.5 Protection of equipment. Equipment not identified
for outdoor use and equipment identified only for indoor use,
such as "dry locations," "indoor use only" "damp locations,"
or enclosure Type 1, 2, 5, 12, 12K and/or 13, shall be pro-
tected against damage from the weather during construction.
E3404.6 Unused openings. Unused openings, other than
those intended for the operation of equipment, those intended
for mounting purposes, and those permitted as part of the
design for listed equipment, shall be closed to afford protec-
tion substantially equivalent to the wall of the equipment.
Where metallic plugs or plates are used with nonmetallic
enclosures they shall be recessed at least V 4 inch (6.4 mm)
from the outer surface of the enclosure.
E3404.7 Integrity of electrical equipment. Internal parts of
electrical equipment, including busbars, wiring terminals,
insulators and other surfaces, shall not be damaged or con-
taminated by foreign materials such as paint, plaster, cleaners
or abrasives, and corrosive residues. There shall not be any
damaged parts that might adversely affect safe operation or
mechanical strength of the equipment such as parts that are
broken; bent; cut; deteriorated by corrosion, chemical action,
or overheating. Foreign debris shall be removed from equip-
ment.
E3404.8 Mounting. Electrical equipment shall be firmly
secured to the surface on which it is mounted. Wooden plugs
driven into masonry, concrete, plaster, or similar materials
shall not be used.
E3404.9 Energized parts guarded against accidental con-
tact. Approved enclosures shall guard energized parts that are
operating at 50 volts or more against accidental contact.
E3404.10 Prevent physical damage. In locations where
electrical equipment is likely to be exposed to physical dam-
age, enclosures or guards shall be so arranged and of such
strength as to prevent such damage.
E3404.ll Equipment identification. The manufacturer's
name, trademark or other descriptive marking by which the
organization responsible for the product can be identified
shall be placed on all electric equipment. Other markings
shall be provided that indicate voltage, current, wattage or
other ratings as specified elsewhere in Chapters 34 through
43. The marking shall have the durability to withstand the
environment involved.
E3404.12 Identification of disconnecting means. Each dis-
connecting means shall be legibly marked to indicate its pur-
pose, except where located and arranged so that the purpose
676
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
is evident. The marking shall have the durability to withstand
the environment involved.
SECTION E3405
EQUIPMENT LOCATION AND CLEARANCES
E3405.1 Working space and clearances. Sufficient access
and working space shall be provided and maintained around
all electrical equipment to permit ready and safe operation
and maintenance of such equipment in accordance with this
section and Figure E3405. 1 .
E3405.2 Working clearances for energized equipment and
panelboards. Except as otherwise specified in Chapters 34
through 43, the dimension of the working space in the direc-
tion of access to panelboards and live parts likely to require
examination, adjustment, servicing or maintenance while
energized shall be not less than 36 inches (914 mm) in depth.
Distances shall be measured from the energized parts where
such parts are exposed or from the enclosure front or opening
where such parts are enclosed. In addition to the 36-inch
dimension (914 mm), the work space shall not be less than 30
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
inches (762 mm) wide in front of the electrical equipment and
not less than the width of such equipment. The work space
shall be clear and shall extend from the floor or platform to a
height of 6.5 feet (1981 mm) or the height of the equipment,
whichever is greater. In all cases, the work space shall allow
at least a 90-degree (1.57 rad) opening of equipment doors or
hinged panels. Equipment associated with the electrical
installation located above or below the electrical equipment
shall be permitted to extend not more than 6 inches (152 mm)
beyond the front of the electrical equipment.
Exceptions:
1. In existing dwelling units, service equipment and
panelboards that are not rated in excess of 200
amperes shall be permitted in spaces where the
height of the working space is less than 6.5 feet
(1981 mm).
2. Meters that are installed in meter sockets shall be
permitted to extend beyond the other equipment.
Meter sockets shall not be exempt from the require-
ments of this section.
TABLE E3404.4
ENCLOSURE SELECTION
PROVIDES A DEGREE OF PROTECTION
AGAINST THE FOLLOWING ENVIRONMENTAL
CONDITIONS
FOR OUTDOOR USE
Enclosure-type Number
3
3R
3S
3X
3RX
3SX
4
4X
6
6P
Incidental contact with the enclosed equip-
ment
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Rain, snow and sleet
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Sleet a
—
—
X
—
—
X
—
—
—
—
Windblown dust
X
—
X
X
—
X
X
X
X
X
Hosedown
—
—
—
—
—
—
X
X
X
X
Corrosive agents
—
—
—
X
X
X
—
X
—
X
Temporary submersion
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
X
X
Prolonged submersion
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
X
PROVIDES A DEGREE OF PROTECTION
AGAINST THE FOLLOWING ENVIRONMENTAL
CONDITIONS
FOR INDOOR USE
Enclosure-type Number
1
2
4
4X
5
6
6P
12
12K
13
Incidental contact with the enclosed equip-
ment
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Falling dirt
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Falling liquids and light splashing
—
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Circulating dust, lint, fibers and flyings
—
—
X
X
—
X
X
X
X
X
Settling airborne dust, lint, fibers and flings
—
—
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Hosedown and splashing water
—
—
X
X
—
X
X
—
—
—
Oil and coolant seepage
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
X
X
X
Oil or coolant spraying and splashing
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
X
Corrosive agents
—
—
—
X
—
—
X
—
—
—
Temporary submersion
—
—
—
—
—
X
X
—
—
—
Prolonged submersion
— -
—
—
—
— -
—
X
—
—
—
a. Mechanism shall be operable when ice covered.
Note 1: The term raintight is typically used in conjunction with Enclosure Types 3, 3S, 3SX, 3X, 4, 4X, 6 and 6P. The term rainproof is typically used in
conjunction with Enclosure Types 3R and 3RX. The term watertight is typically used in conjunction with Enclosure Types 4, 4X, 6 and 6P. The term
driptight is typically used in conjunction with Enclosure Types 2, 5, 12, 12K and 13. The term dusttighl is typically used in conjunction with Enclosure
Types 3, 3S, 3SX, 3X, 5, 12, 12K and 13.
Note 2: Ingress protection (IP) ratings are found in ANSI/NEMA 60529, Degrees of Protection Provided by Enclosures. IP ratings are not a substitute for
enclosure-type ratings.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
677
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
E3405.3 Dedicated panelboard space. The space equal to
the width and depth of the panelboard and extending from the
floor to a height of 6 feet (1829 mm) above the panelboard, or
to the structural ceiling, whichever is lower, shall be dedi-
cated to the electrical installation. Piping, ducts, leak protec-
tion apparatus and other equipment foreign to the electrical
installation shall not be installed in such dedicated space. The
area above the dedicated space shall be permitted to contain
foreign systems, provided that protection is installed to avoid
damage to the electrical equipment from condensation, leaks
and breaks in such foreign systems (see Figure E3405.1).
Exception: Suspended ceilings with removable panels
shall be permitted within the 6-foot (1829 mm) dedicated
space.
E3405.4 Location of working spaces and equipment.
Required working space shall not be designated for storage.
Panelboards and overcurrent protection devices shall not be
located in clothes closets, in bathrooms, or over the steps of a
stairway.
E3405.5 Access and entrance to working space. Access
shall be provided to the required working space.
E3405.6 Illumination. Artificial illumination shall be pro-
vided for all working spaces for service equipment and panel-
boards installed indoors and shall not be controlled by
automatic means only. Additional lighting outlets shall not be
required where the work space is illuminated by an adjacent
light source or as permitted by Exception 1 of Section
E3903.2 for switched receptacles.
SECTION E3406
ELECTRICAL CONDUCTORS AND CONNECTIONS
E3406.1 General. This section provides general require-
ments for conductors, connections and splices. These require-
ments do not apply to conductors that form an integral part of
equipment, such as motors, appliances and similar equip-
ment, or to conductors specifically provided for elsewhere in
Chapters 34 through 43.
E3406.2 Conductor material. Conductors used to conduct
current shall be of copper except as otherwise provided in
Chapters 34 through 43. Where the conductor material is not
specified, the material and the sizes given in these chapters
shall apply to copper conductors. Where other materials are
used, the conductor sizes shall be changed accordingly.
E3406.3 Minimum size of conductors. The minimum size
of conductors for feeders and branch circuits shall be 14
AWG copper and 1 2 AWG aluminum. The minimum size of
service conductors shall be as specified in Chapter 36. The
minimum size of Class 2 remote control, signaling and
power-limited circuits conductors shall be as specified in
Chapter 43.
E3406.4 Stranded conductors. Where installed in raceways,
conductors 8 AWG and larger shall be stranded. A solid 8
AWG conductor shall be permitted to be installed in a race-
way only to meet the requirements of Sections E3610.2 and
E4204.
E3406.5 Individual conductor insulation. Except where
otherwise permitted in Sections E3605.1 and E3908.9, and
E4303, current-carrying conductors shall be insulated. Insu-
lated conductors shall have insulation types identified as
RHH, RHW, RHW-2, THHN, THHW, THW, THW-2,
THWN, THWN-2, TW, UF, USE, USE-2, XHHW or
XHHW-2. Insulation types shall be approved for the applica-
tion.
E3406.6 Conductors in parallel. Circuit conductors that are
connected in parallel shall be limited to sizes 1/0 AWG and
larger. Conductors in parallel shall: be of the same length;
consist of the same conductor material; be the same circular I
mil area and have the same insulation type. Conductors in j
parallel shall be terminated in the same manner. Where run in
separate raceways or cables, the raceway or cables shall have
the same physical characteristics. Where conductors are in
separate raceways or cables, the same number of conductors
shall be used in each raceway or cable.
E3406.7 Conductors of the same circuit. All conductors of
the same circuit and, where used, the grounded conductor and
all equipment grounding conductors and bonding conductors
shall be contained within the same raceway, cable or cord.
E3406.8 Aluminum and copper connections. Terminals
and splicing connectors shall be identified for the material of
the conductors joined. Conductors of dissimilar metals shall
not be joined in a terminal or splicing connector where physi-
cal contact occurs between dissimilar conductors such as cop-
per and aluminum, copper and copper-clad aluminum, or
aluminum and copper-clad aluminum, except where the
device is listed for the purpose and conditions of application.
Materials such as inhibitors and compounds shall be suitable
for the application and shall be of a type that will not
adversely affect the conductors, installation or equipment.
E3406.9 Fine stranded conductors. Connectors and termi-
nals for conductors that are more finely stranded than Class B
and Class C stranding as shown in Table E3406.9, shall be
identified for the specific conductor class or classes.
E3406.10 Terminals. Connection of conductors to terminal
parts shall be made without damaging the conductors and
shall be made by means of pressure connectors, including set-
screw type, by means of splices to flexible leads, or for con-
ductor sizes of 10 AWG and smaller, by means of wire bind-
ing screws or studs and nuts having upturned lugs or the
equivalent. Terminals for more than one conductor and termi-
nals for connecting aluminum conductors shall be identified
for the application.
E3406.ll Splices. Conductors shall be spliced or joined with
splicing devices listed for the purpose. Splices and joints and
the free ends of conductors shall be covered with an insula-
tion equivalent to that of the conductors or with an insulating
device listed for the purpose. Wire connectors or splicing
means installed on conductors for direct burial shall be listed
for such use.
678
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
FOOTNOTE a
§ FOOTNOTE b
FOOTNOTE a
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Equipment, piping and ducts foreign to the electrical installation shall not be placed in the shaded areas extending from the floor to a height of 6 feet above the
panelboard enclosure, or to the structural ceiling, whichever is lower.
b. The working space shall be clear and unobstructed from the floor to a height of 6.5 feet or the height of the equipment, whichever is greater.
c. The working space shall not be designated for storage.
d. Panelboards, service equipment and similar enclosures shall not be located in bathrooms, toilet rooms, clothes closets or over the steps of a stairway.
e. Such work spaces shall be provided with artificial lighting where located indoors and shall not be controlled by automatic means only.
FIGURE E3405.1 abcde
WORKING SPACE AND CLEARANCES
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
679
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
TABLE E3406.9
CONDUCTOR STRANDING'
CONDUCTOR SIZE
NUMBER OF STRANDS
Copper
Aluminum
AWG or kcmil
mm 2
Class B
Class C
Class B
24-30
0.20-0.05
a
—
—
22
0.32
7
—
—
20
0.52
10
—
—
18
0.82
16
—
—
16
1.3
26
—
—
14-2
2.1-33.6
7
19
7 b
1-4/0
42.4-107
19
37
19
250-500
127-253
37
61
37
600-1000
304-508
61
91
61
1250-1500
635-759
91
127
91
1750-2000
886-1016
127
271
127
a. Number of strands vary.
b. Aluminum 14 AWG (2.1 mm 2 ) is not available.
c. With the permission of Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., this material is reproduced from UL Standard 486A-B, Wire Connectors, which is copyrighted by
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., Northbrook, Illinois. While use of this material has been authorized, UL shall not be responsible for the manner in which the
information is presented, nor for any interpretations thereof.
E3406.ll. 1 Continuity. Conductors in raceways shall be
continuous between outlets, boxes, and devices and shall
be without splices or taps in the raceway.
Exception: Splices shall be permitted within surface-
mounted raceways that have a removable cover.
E3406.11.2 Device connections. The continuity of a
grounded conductor in multiwire branch circuits shall not
be dependent on connection to devices such as receptacles
and lampholders. The arrangement of grounding connec-
tions shall be such that the disconnection or the removal of
a receptacle, luminaire or other device fed from the box
does not interfere with or interrupt the grounding continu-
ity.
E3406.11.3 Length of conductor for splice or termina-
tion. Where conductors are to be spliced, terminated or
connected to fixtures or devices, a minimum length of 6
inches (152 mm) of free conductor shall be provided at
each outlet, junction or switch point. The required length
shall be measured from the point in the box where the con-
ductor emerges from its raceway or cable sheath. Where
the opening to an outlet, junction or switch point is less
than 8 inches (200 mm) in any dimension, each conductor
shall be long enough to extend at least 3 inches (75 mm)
outside of such opening.
E3406.12 Grounded conductor continuity. The continuity
of a grounded conductor shall not depend on connection to a
metallic enclosure, raceway or cable armor.
SECTION E3407
CONDUCTOR AND TERMINAL IDENTIFICATION
E3407.1 Grounded conductors. Insulated grounded conduc-
tors of sizes 6 AWG or smaller shall be identified by a contin-
uous white or gray outer finish or by three continuous white
stripes on other than green insulation along the entire length
of the conductors. Conductors of sizes 4 AWG or larger shall
be identified either by a continuous white or gray outer finish
or by three continuous white stripes on other than green insu-
lation along its entire length or at the time of installation by a
distinctive white or gray marking at its terminations. This
marking shall encircle the conductor or insulation.
E3407.2 Equipment grounding conductors. Equipment
grounding conductors of sizes 6 AWG and smaller shall be
identified by a continuous green color or a continuous green
color with one or more yellow stripes on the insulation or
covering, except where bare. Conductors with insulation or
individual covering that is green, green with one or more yel-
low stripes, or otherwise identified as permitted by this sec-
tion shall not be used for ungrounded or grounded circuit
conductors.
Equipment grounding conductors larger than 6 AWG that
are not identified as required for conductors of sizes 6 AWG
and smaller shall, at the time of installation, be permanently
identified as an equipment grounding conductor at each end
and at every point where the conductor is accessible, except
where such conductors are bare.
680
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
The required identification for conductors larger than 6
AWG shall encircle the conductor and shall be accomplished
by one of the following:
1. Stripping the insulation or covering from the entire
exposed length.
2. Coloring the exposed insulation or covering green at
the termination.
3. Marking the exposed insulation or covering with green
tape or green adhesive labels at the termination.
Exceptions:
1 . Conductors larger than 6 AWG shall not be required
to be identified in conduit bodies that do not contain
splices or unused hubs.
2. Power-limited, Class 2 or Class 3 circuit cables con-
taining only circuits operating at less than 50 volts
shall be permitted to use a conductor with green
insulation for other than equipment grounding pur-
poses.
E3407.3 Ungrounded conductors. Insulation on the
ungrounded conductors shall be a continuous color other than
white, gray and green.
Exceptions:
1 . An insulated conductor that is part of a cable or flex-
ible cord assembly and that has a white or gray fin-
ish or a finish marking with three continuous white
stripes shall be permitted to be used as an
ungrounded conductor where it is permanently
reidentified to indicate its use as an ungrounded con-
ductor at all terminations and at each location where
the conductor is visible and accessible. Identifica-
tion shall encircle the insulation and shall be a color
other than white, gray, and green. Where used for
single-pole, 3-way or 4-way switch loops, the
reidentified conductor with white or gray insulation
or three continuous white stripes shall be used only
as a return conductor from the switch to the outlet.
E3407.4 Identification of terminals. Terminals for attach-
ment to conductors shall be identified in accordance with
Sections E3407.4.1 and E3407.4.2.
E3407.4.1 Device terminals. All devices excluding panel-
boards, provided with terminals for the attachment of con-
ductors and intended for connection to more than one side
of the circuit shall have terminals properly marked for
identification, except where the terminal intended to be
connected to the grounded conductor is clearly evident.
Exception: Terminal identification shall not be
required for devices that have a normal current rating of
over 30 amperes, other than polarized attachment caps
and polarized receptacles for attachment caps as
required in Section E3407.4.2.
E3407.4.2 Receptacles, plugs and connectors. Recepta-
cles, polarized attachment plugs and cord connectors for
plugs and polarized plugs shall have the terminal intended
for connection to the grounded (white) conductor identi-
fied. Identification shall be by a metal or metal coating
substantially white in color or by the word "white" or the
letter "W" located adjacent to the identified terminal.
Where the terminal is not visible, the conductor entrance
hole for the connection shall be colored white or marked
with the word "white" or the letter "W."
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
681
682 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 35
Ei r/\YQipAi ncciKiinrir^Kic
SECTION E3501
GENERAL
E3501.1 Scope. This chapter contains definitions that shall
apply only to the electrical requirements of Chapters 34
through 43. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following
terms shall, for the purpose of this code, have the meanings
indicated in this chapter. Words used in the present tense
include the future; the singular number includes the plural
and the plural the singular. Where terms are not defined in
this section and are defined in Section R202 of this code, such
terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them in that sec-
tion. Where terms are not defined in these sections, they shall
have their ordinarily accepted meanings or such as the con-
text implies.
ACCESSIBLE. (As applied to equipment.) Admitting close
approach; not guarded by locked doors, elevation or other
effective means.
ACCESSIBLE. (As applied to wiring methods.) Capable of
being removed or exposed without damaging the building
structure or finish, or not permanently closed in by the struc-
ture or finish of the building.
ACCESSIBLE, READILY. Capable of being reached
quickly for operation, renewal or inspections, without requir-
ing those to whom ready access is requisite to climb over or
remove obstacles or to resort to portable ladders, etc.
| AMPACITY. The maximum current in amperes that a con-
ductor can carry continuously under the conditions of use
without exceeding its temperature rating.
APPLIANCE. Utilization equipment, normally built in stan-
dardized sizes or types, that is installed or connected as a unit
to perform one or more functions such as clothes washing, air
conditioning, food mixing, deep frying, etc.
APPROVED. Acceptable to the authority having jurisdic-
tion.
ARC-FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTER. A device
intended to provide protection from the effects of arc-faults
by recognizing characteristics unique to arcing and by func-
tioning to de-energize the circuit when an arc-fault is
detected.
ATTACHMENT PLUG (PLUG CAP) (PLUG). A device
that, by insertion into a receptacle, establishes connection
between the conductors of the attached flexible cord and the
conductors connected permanently to the receptacle.
AUTOMATIC. Performing a function without the necessity
of human intervention.
BATHROOM. An area, including a basin, with one or more
■ of the following: a toilet, a urinal, a tub, a shower, a bidet, or
similar plumbing fixture.
BONDED (BONDING). Connected to establish electrical
continuity and conductivity.
I
BONDING CONDUCTOR OR JUMPER. A reliable con- |
ductor to ensure the required electrical conductivity between
metal parts required to be electrically connected.
BONDING JUMPER (EQUIPMENT). The connection
between two or more portions of the equipment grounding
conductor.
BONDING JUMPER, MAIN. The connection between the
grounded circuit conductor and the equipment grounding
conductor at the service.
BONDING JUMPER, SUPPLY-SIDE. A conductor
installed on the supply side of a service or within a service
equipment enclosure(s) that ensures the required electrical
conductivity between metal parts required to be electrically
connected.
BRANCH CIRCUIT. The circuit conductors between the
final overcurrent device protecting the circuit and the out-
lets).
BRANCH CIRCUIT, APPLIANCE. A branch circuit that
supplies energy to one or more outlets to which appliances
are to be connected, and that has no permanently connected
luminaires that are not a part of an appliance.
BRANCH CIRCUIT, GENERAL PURPOSE. A branch
circuit that supplies two or more receptacle outlets or outlets
for lighting and appliances.
BRANCH CIRCUIT, INDIVIDUAL. A branch circuit that
supplies only one utilization equipment.
BRANCH CIRCUIT, MULTI WIRE. A branch circuit con-
sisting of two or more ungrounded conductors having voltage
difference between them, and a grounded conductor having
equal voltage difference between it and each ungrounded
conductor of the circuit, and that is connected to the neutral or
grounded conductor of the system.
CABINET. An enclosure designed either for surface or flush
mounting and provided with a frame, mat or trim in which a
swinging door or doors are or may be hung.
CIRCUIT BREAKER. A device designed to open and close
a circuit by nonautomatic means and to open the circuit auto-
matically on a predetermined overcurrent without damage to
itself when properly applied within its rating.
CLOTHES CLOSET. A nonhabitable room or space
intended primarily for storage of garments and apparel.
CONCEALED. Rendered inaccessible by the structure or
finish of the building. Wires in concealed raceways are con-
sidered to be concealed, even though they become accessible
upon withdrawing them [see "Accessible (As applied to wir-
ing methods)"].
CONDUCTOR
Bare. A conductor having no covering or electrical insula-
tion whatsoever.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
683
ELECTRICAL DEFINITIONS
Covered. A conductor encased within material of compo-
sition or thickness that is not recognized by this code as
electrical insulation.
Insulated. A conductor encased within material of com-
position and thickness that is recognized by this code as
electrical insulation.
CONDUIT BODY. A separate portion of a conduit or tubing
system that provides access through a removable cover(s) to
the interior of the system at a junction of two or more sections
of the system or at a terminal point of the system. Boxes such
as FS and FD or larger cast or sheet metal boxes are not clas-
sified as conduit bodies.
CONNECTOR, PRESSURE (SOLDERLESS). A device
that establishes a connection between two or more conductors
or between one or more conductors and a terminal by means
of mechanical pressure and without the use of solder.
CONTINUOUS LOAD. A load where the maximum current
is expected to continue for 3 hours or more.
COOKING UNIT, COUNTER-MOUNTED. A cooking
appliance designed for mounting in or on a counter and con-
sisting of one or more heating elements, internal wiring and
built-in or separately mountable controls.
COPPER-CLAD ALUMINUM CONDUCTORS. Conduc-
tors drawn from a copper-clad aluminum rod with the copper
metallurgical ly bonded to an aluminum core. The copper
forms a minimum of 10 percent of the cross-sectional area of
a solid conductor or each strand of a stranded conductor.
CUTOUT BOX. An enclosure designed for surface mount-
ing and having swinging doors or covers secured directly to
and telescoping with the walls of the box proper (see "Cabi-
net").
DEAD FRONT. Without live parts exposed to a person on
the operating side of the equipment.
DEMAND FACTOR. The ratio of the maximum demand of
a system, or part of a system, to the total connected load of a
system or the part of the system under consideration.
DEVICE. A unit of an electrical system that carries or con-
trols electrical energy as it principal function.
DISCONNECTING MEANS. A device, or group of
devices, or other means by which the conductors of a circuit
can be disconnected from their source of supply.
DWELLING
Dwelling unit. A single unit, providing complete and
independent living facilities for one or more persons,
including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, cook-
ing and sanitation.
One-family dwelling. A building consisting solely of one
dwelling unit.
Two-family dwelling. A building consisting solely of two
dwelling units.
ENCLOSED. Surrounded by a case, housing, fence or walls
that will prevent persons from accidentally contacting ener-
gized parts.
ENCLOSURE. The case or housing of apparatus, or the
fence or walls surrounding an installation, to prevent person-
nel from accidentally contacting energized parts or to protect
the equipment from physical damage.
ENERGIZED. Electrically connected to, or is, a source of
voltage.
EQUIPMENT. A general term including material, fittings,
devices, appliances, luminaires, apparatus, machinery and the
like used as a part of, or in connection with, an electrical
installation.
EXPOSED. (As applied to live parts.) Capable of being inad-
vertently touched or approached nearer than a safe distance
by a person. It is applied to parts not suitably guarded, iso-
lated or insulated.
EXPOSED. (As applied to wiring methods.) On or attached
to the surface or behind panels designed to allow access.
EXTERNALLY OPERABLE. Capable of being operated
without exposing the operator to contact with live parts.
FEEDER. All circuit conductors between the service equip-
ment, or the source of a separately derived system, or other
power supply source and the final branch-circuit overcurrent
device.
FITTING. An accessory such as a locknut, bushing or other
part of a wiring system that is intended primarily to perform a
mechanical rather than an electrical function.
GROUND. The earth.
GROUNDED (GROUNDING). Connected (connecting) to
ground or to a conductive body that extends the ground con-
nection.
GROUNDED, EFFECTIVELY. Intentionally connected to
earth through a ground connection or connections of suffi-
ciently low impedance and having sufficient current-carrying
capacity to prevent the buildup of voltages that may result in
undue hazards to connected equipment or to persons.
GROUNDED CONDUCTOR. A system or circuit conduc-
tor that is intentionally grounded.
GROUNDING CONDUCTOR, EQUIPMENT (EGC).
The conductive path(s) installed to connect normally noncur-
rent-carrying metal parts of equipment together and, to the
system grounded conductor, the grounding electrode conduc-
tor or both.
GROUNDING ELECTRODE. A conducting object
through which a direct connection to earth is established.
GROUNDING ELECTRODE CONDUCTOR. A conduc-
tor used to connect the system grounded conductor or the
equipment to a grounding electrode or to a point on the
grounding electrode system.
GROUND-FAULT CIRCUIT-INTERRUPTER. A device
intended for the protection of personnel that functions to de-
energize a circuit or portion thereof within an established
period of time when a current to ground exceeds the value for
a Class A device.
GUARDED. Covered, shielded, fenced, enclosed or other-
wise protected by means of suitable covers, casings, barriers,
684
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
ELECTRICAL DEFINITIONS
rails, screens, mats or platforms to remove the likelihood of
approach or contact by persons or objects to a point of dan-
ger.
IDENTIFIED. (As applied to equipment.) Recognizable as
suitable for the specific purpose, function, use, environment,
application, etc., where described in a particular code require-
ment.
INTERRUPTING RATING. The highest current at rated
| voltage that a device is identified to interrupt under standard
test conditions.
INTERSYSTEM BONDING TERMINATION. A device
■ that provides a means for connecting bonding conductors for
communications systems to the grounding electrode system.
ISOLATED. (As applied to location.) Not readily accessible
to persons unless special means for access are used.
| KITCHEN. An area with a sink and permanent provisions
for food preparation and cooking.
LABELED. Equipment or materials to which has been
attached a label, symbol or other identifying mark of an orga-
nization acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction and
concerned with product evaluation that maintains periodic
inspection of production of labeled equipment or materials
and by whose labeling the manufacturer indicates compliance
with appropriate standards or performance in a specified
manner.
LIGHTING OUTLET. An outlet intended for the direct
connection of a lampholder or luminaire.
LISTED. Equipment, materials or services included in a list
published by an organization that is acceptable to the author-
ity having jurisdiction and concerned with evaluation of
products or services, that maintains periodic inspection of
production of listed equipment or materials or periodic evalu-
ation of services, and whose listing states either that the
equipment, material or services meets identified standards or
has been tested and found suitable for a specified purpose.
LIVE PARTS. Energized conductive components.
LOCATION, DAMP. Location protected from weather and
not subject to saturation with water or other liquids but sub-
ject to moderate degrees of moisture. Examples of such loca-
tions include partially protected locations under canopies,
marquees, roofed open porches and like locations, and inte-
rior locations subject to moderate degrees of moisture, such
as some basements, some barns and some cold-storage ware-
houses.
LOCATION, DRY. A location not normally subject to
dampness or wetness. A location classified as dry may be
temporarily subject to dampness or wetness, as in the case of
a building under construction.
LOCATION, WET. Installations underground or in con-
crete slabs or masonry in direct contact with the earth and
locations subject to saturation with water or other liquids,
such as vehicle- washing areas, and locations exposed to
weather.
LUMINAIRE. A complete lighting unit consisting of a light
source such as a lamp or lamps together with the parts
designed to position the light source and connect it to the
power supply. A luminaire can include parts to protect the
light source or the ballast or to distribute the light. A lamp-
holder itself is not a luminaire.
MULTIOUTLET ASSEMBLY. A type of surface, or flush,
or freestanding raceway; designed to hold conductors and
receptacles, assembled in the field or at the factory.
NEUTRAL CONDUCTOR. The conductor connected to
the neutral point of a system that is intended to carry current
under normal conditions.
NEUTRAL POINT. The common point on a wye-connec-
tion in a polyphase system or midpoint on a single-phase, 3-
wire system, or midpoint of a single-phase portion of a 3-
phase delta system, or a midpoint of a 3-wire, direct-current
system.
OUTLET. A point on the wiring system at which current is
taken to supply utilization equipment.
OVERCURRENT. Any current in excess of the rated cur-
rent of equipment or the ampacity of a conductor. Such cur-
rent might result from overload, short circuit or ground fault.
OVERLOAD. Operation of equipment in excess of normal,
full-load rating, or of a conductor in excess of rated ampacity
that, when it persists for a sufficient length of time, would
cause damage or dangerous overheating. A fault, such as a
short circuit or ground fault, is not an overload.
PANELBOARD. A single panel or group of panel units
designed for assembly in the form of a single panel, including
buses and automatic overcurrent devices, and equipped with
or without switches for the control of light, heat or power cir-
cuits, designed to be placed in a cabinet or cutout box placed
in or against a wall, partition or other support and accessible
only from the front.
PLENUM. A compartment or chamber to which one or more
air ducts are connected and that forms part of the air distribu-
tion system.
POWER OUTLET. An enclosed assembly that may include
receptacles, circuit breakers, fuseholders, fused switches,
buses and watt-hour meter mounting means, intended to sup-
ply and control power to mobile homes, recreational vehicles
or boats, or to serve as a means for distributing power
required to operate mobile or temporarily installed equip-
ment.
PREMISES WIRING (SYSTEM). Interior and exterior
wiring, including power, lighting, control and signal circuit
wiring together with all of their associated hardware, fittings
and wiring devices, both permanently and temporarily
installed. This includes wiring from the service point or
power source to the outlets and wiring from and including the
power source to the outlets where there is no service point.
Such wiring does not include wiring internal to appliances,
luminaires, motors, controllers, and similar equipment.
QUALIFIED PERSON. One who has the skills and knowl-
edge related to the construction and operation of the electrical
equipment and installations and has received safety training
to recognize and avoid the hazards involved.
RACEWAY. An enclosed channel of metal or nonmetallic
materials designed expressly for holding wires, cables, or
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
685
ELECTRICAL DEFINITIONS
busbars, with additional functions as permitted in this code.
Raceways include, but are not limited to, rigid metal conduit,
rigid nonmetallic conduit, intermediate metal conduit, liquid-
tight flexible conduit, flexible metallic tubing, flexible metal
conduit, electrical nonmetallic tubing, electrical metallic tub-
ing, underfloor raceways, cellular concrete floor raceways,
cellular metal floor raceways, surface raceways, wireways
and busways.
RAINPROOF. Constructed, protected or treated so as to pre-
vent rain from interfering with the successful operation of the
apparatus under specified test conditions.
RAIN TIGHT. Constructed or protected so that exposure to
a beating rain will not result in the entrance of water under
specified test conditions.
RECEPTACLE. A receptacle is a contact device installed at
the outlet for the connection of an attachment plug. A single
receptacle is a single contact device with no other contact
device on the same yoke. A multiple receptacle is two or
more contact devices on the same yoke.
RECEPTACLE OUTLET. An outlet where one or more
receptacles are installed.
SERVICE. The conductors and equipment for delivering
energy from the serving utility to the wiring system of the
premises served.
SERVICE CABLE. Service conductors made up in the form
of a cable.
SERVICE CONDUCTORS. The conductors from the ser-
vice point to the service disconnecting means.
SERVICE CONDUCTORS, OVERHEAD. The overhead
conductors between the service point and the first point of
connection to the service-entrance conductors at the building
or other structure.
SERVICE CONDUCTORS, UNDERGROUND. The
underground conductors between the service point and the
first point of connection to the service-entrance conductors in
a terminal box, meter, or other enclosure, inside or outside of
the building wall.
SERVICE DROP. The overhead service conductors
■ between the utility electric supply system and the service
point.
SERVICE-ENTRANCE CONDUCTORS, OVERHEAD
SYSTEM. The service conductors between the terminals of
the service equipment and a point usually outside of the
building, clear of building walls, where joined by tap or
I splice to the service drop or overhead service conductors.
SERVICE-ENTRANCE CONDUCTORS, UNDER-
GROUND SYSTEM. The service conductors between the
terminals of the service equipment and the point of connec-
| tion to the service lateral or underground service conductors.
SERVICE EQUIPMENT. The necessary equipment, usu-
ally consisting of a circuit breaker(s) or switch(es) and
fuse(s), and their accessories, connected to the load end of the
service conductors to a building or other structure, or an oth-
erwise designated area, and intended to constitute the main
control and cutoff of the supply.
SERVICE LATERAL. The underground service conductors
between the electric utility supply system and the service
point.
SERVICE POINT. The point of connection between the
facilities of the serving utility and the premises wiring.
STRUCTURE. That which is built or constructed.
SWITCHES
General-use switch. A switch intended for use in general
distribution and branch circuits. It is rated in amperes and
is capable of interrupting its rated current at its rated volt-
age.
General-use snap switch. A form of general-use switch
constructed so that it can be installed in device boxes or on
box covers or otherwise used in conjunction with wiring
systems recognized by this code.
Isolating switch. A switch intended for isolating an elec-
tric circuit from the source of power. It has no interrupting
rating and is intended to be operated only after the circuit
has been opened by some other means.
Motor-circuit switch. A switch, rated in horsepower that
is capable of interrupting the maximum operating overload
current of a motor of the same horsepower rating as the
switch at the rated voltage.
UNGROUNDED. Not connected to ground or to a conduc-
tive body that extends the ground connection.
UTILIZATION EQUIPMENT. Equipment that utilizes
electric energy for electronic, electromechanical, chemical,
heating, lighting or similar purposes.
VENTILATED. Provided with a means to permit circulation
of air sufficient to remove an excess of heat, fumes or vapors.
VOLTAGE (OF A CIRCUIT). The greatest root-mean-
square (rms) (effective) difference of potential between any
two conductors of the circuit concerned.
VOLTAGE, NOMINAL. A nominal value assigned to a cir-
cuit or system for the purpose of conveniently designating its
voltage class (e.g., 120/240). The actual voltage at which a
circuit operates can vary from the nominal within a range that
permits satisfactory operation of equipment.
VOLTAGE TO GROUND. For grounded circuits, the volt-
age between the given conductor and that point or conductor
of the circuit that is grounded. For ungrounded circuits, the
greatest voltage between the given conductor and any other
conductor of the circuit.
WATERTIGHT. Constructed so that moisture will not enter
the enclosure under specified test conditions.
WEATHERPROOF. Constructed or protected so that expo-
sure to the weather will not interfere with successful opera-
tion.
686
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 36
SCpVfljT'CC
SECTION E3601
GENERAL SERVICES
E3601.1 Scope. This chapter covers service conductors and
equipment for the control and protection of services and their
installation requirements.
E3601.2 Number of services. One- and two-family dwell-
ings shall be supplied by only one service.
E3601.3 One building or other structure not to be sup-
plied through another. Service conductors supplying a
building or other structure shall not pass through the interior
of another building or other structure.
E3601.4 Other conductors in raceway or cable. Conduc-
tors other than service conductors shall not be installed in the
same service raceway or service cable.
Exceptions:
1 . Grounding conductors and bonding jumpers.
2. Load management control conductors having over-
current protection.
E3601.5 Raceway seal. Where a service raceway enters from
an underground distribution system, it shall be sealed in
accordance with Section E3803.6.
E3601.6 Service disconnect required. Means shall be pro-
vided to disconnect all conductors in a building or other
structure from the service entrance conductors.
E360 1.6.1 Marking of service equipment and discon-
nects. Service disconnects shall be permanently marked as
a service disconnect.
E3601.6.2 Service disconnect location. The service dis-
connecting means shall be installed at a readily accessible
location either outside of a building or inside nearest the
point of entrance of the service conductors. Service dis-
connecting means shall not be installed in bathrooms.
Each occupant shall have access to the disconnect serving
the dwelling unit in which they reside.
E3601.7 Maximum number of disconnects. The service
disconnecting means shall consist of not more than six
switches or six circuit breakers mounted in a single enclosure
or in a group of separate enclosures.
SECTION E3602
SERVICE SIZE AND RATING
E3602.1 Ampacity of ungrounded conductors.
Ungrounded service conductors shall have an ampacity of not
less than the load served. For one-family dwellings, the
ampacity of the ungrounded conductors shall be not less than
1 00 amperes, 3 wire. For all other installations, the ampacity
of the ungrounded conductors shall be not less than 60
amperes.
E3602.2 Service load. The minimum load for ungrounded
service conductors and service devices that serve 1 00 percent
of the dwelling unit load shall be computed in accordance
with Table E3602.2. Ungrounded service conductors and ser-
vice devices that serve less than 100 percent of the dwelling
unit load shall be computed as required for feeders in accor-
dance with Chapter 37.
TABLE E3602.2
MINIMUM SERVICE LOAD CALCULATION
LOADS AND PROCEDURE
3 volt-amperes per square foot of floor area for general lighting
and general use receptacle outlets.
Plus
1 ,500 volt-amperes multiplied by total number of 20-ampere-rated
small appliance and laundry circuits.
Plus
The nameplate volt-ampere rating of all fastened-in-place, perma-
nently connected or dedicated circuit-supplied appliances such as
ranges, ovens, cooking units, clothes dryers not connected to the
laundry branch circuit and water heaters.
Apply the following demand factors to the above subtotal:
The minimum subtotal for the loads above shall be 100 percent of
the first 10,000 volt-amperes of the sum of the above loads plus 40
percent of any portion of the sum that is in excess of 10,000 volt-
amperes.
Plus the largest of the following:
One-hundred percent of the nameplate rating(s) of the air-condi-
tioning and cooling equipment.
One hundred percent of the nameplate rating(s) of the heat pump
where a heat pump is used without any supplemental electric heat-
ing.
One-hundred percent of the nameplate rating of the electric ther-
mal storage and other heating systems where the usual load is
expected to be continuous at the full nameplate value. Systems
qualifying under this selection shall not be figured under any other
category in this table.
One-hundred percent of nameplate rating of the heat pump com-
pressor and sixty-five percent of the supplemental electric heating
load for central electric space-heating systems. If the heat pump
compressor is prevented from operating at the same time as the
supplementary heat, the compressor load does not need to be added
to the supplementary heat load for the total central electric space-
heating load.
Sixty-five percent of nameplate rating(s) of electric space-heating
units if less than four separately conttolled units.
Forty percent of nameplate rating(s) of electric space-heating units
of four or more separately controlled units.
The minimum total load in amperes shall be the
volt-ampere sum calculated above divided by 240 volts.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
687
SERVICES
E3602.2.1 Services under 100 amperes. Services that are
not required to be 100 amperes shall be sized in accor-
dance with Chapter 37.
E3602.3 Rating of service disconnect. The combined rating
of all individual service disconnects serving a single dwelling
unit shall not be less than the load determined from Table
E3602.2 and shall not be less than as specified in Section
E3602.1.
E3602.4 Voltage rating. Systems shall be three- wire, 120/
240-volt, single-phase with a grounded neutral.
SECTION E3603
SERVICE, FEEDER AND GROUNDING ELECTRODE
CONDUCTOR SIZING
E3603.1 Grounded and ungrounded service conductor
size. Conductors used as ungrounded service entrance con-
ductors, service lateral conductors, and feeder conductors that
serve as the main power feeder to a dwelling unit shall be
those listed in Table E3603.1 . The main power feeder shall be
the feeder(s) between the main disconnect and the panelboard
that supplies, either by branch circuits or by feeders, or both,
all loads that are part of or are associated with the dwelling
unit. The feeder conductors to a dwelling unit shall not be
required to have an allowable ampacity greater than that of
the service-entrance conductors that supply them.
Ungrounded service conductors shall have a minimum size in
accordance with Table E3603.1. The grounded conductor
ampacity shall be not less than the maximum unbalance of
the load and its size shall be not smaller than the required
minimum grounding electrode conductor size specified in
Table E3603.1.
E3603.2 Ungrounded service conductors for accessory
buildings and structures. Ungrounded conductors for other
than dwelling units shall have an ampacity of not less than 60
amperes and shall be sized as required for feeders in Chapter
37.
Exceptions:
1. For limited loads of a single branch circuit, the ser-
vice conductors shall have an ampacity of not less
than 15 amperes.
2. For loads consisting of not more than two two-wire
branch circuits, the service conductors shall have an
ampacity of not less than 30 amperes.
E3603.3 Overload protection. Each ungrounded service
conductor shall have overload protection.
E3603.3.1 Ungrounded conductor. Overload protection
shall be provided by an overcurrent device installed in
series with each ungrounded service conductor. The over-
current device shall have a rating or setting not higher than
the allowable service or feeder rating specified in Table
E3603.1. A set of fuses shall be considered all the fuses
required to protect all of the ungrounded conductors of a
circuit. Single pole circuit breakers, grouped in accordance
with Section E3601.7, shall be considered as one protec-
tive device.
Exception: Two to six circuit breakers or sets of fuses
shall be permitted as the overcurrent device to provide
TABLE E3603.1
SERVICE CONDUCTOR AND GROUNDING ELECTRODE CONDUCTOR SIZING
CONDUCTOR TYPES AND SIZES-THHN, THHW, THW, THWN, USE, RHH,
RHW, XHHW, RHW-2, THW-2, THWN-2, XHHW-2, SE, USE-2
(Parallel sets of 1/0 and larger conductors are permitted in either a single
raceway or in separate raceways)
SERVICE OR FEEDER
RATING (AMPERES)
MINIMUM GROUNDING
ELECTRODE CONDUCTOR SIZE"
Copper
(AWG)
Aluminum and copper-clad aluminum
(AWG)
Maximum load
(amps)
Copper
(AWG)
Aluminum
(AWG)
4
2
100
8 b
6 C
3
1
110
8 b
6 C
2
1/0
125
8 b
6 C
1
2/0
150
6 L
4
1/0
3/0
175
6 C
4
2/0
4/0 or two sets of 1/0
200
4 d
2 d
3/0
250 kcmil or two sets of 2/0
225
4 d
2 d
4/0 or two sets of 1/0
300 kcmil ortwo sets of 3/0
250
2 d
1/0"
250 kcmil or two sets of 2/0
350 kcmil or two sets of 4/0
300
2 d
1/0"
350 kcmil or two sets of 3/0
500 kcmil or two sets of 250 kcmil
350
2 d
1/0"
400 kcmil or two sets of 4/0
600 kcmil or two sets of 300 kcmil
400
1/0"
3/0"
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Where protected by a ferrous metal raceway, grounding electrode conductors shall be electrically bonded to the ferrous metal raceway at both ends.
b. An 8 AWG grounding electrode conductor shall be protected with rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, rigid polyvinyl chloride (Type PVC)
nonmetallic conduit, rigid thermosetting resin (Type RTRC) nonmetallic conduit, electrical metallic tubing or cable armor.
c. Where not protected, 6 AWG grounding electrode conductor shall closely follow a structural surface for physical protection. The supports shall be spaced not
more than 24 inches on center and shall be within 12 inches of any enclosure or termination.
d. Where the sole grounding electrode system is a ground rod or pipe as covered in Section E3608.2, the grounding electrode conductor shall not be required to
be larger than 6 AWG copper or 4 AWG aluminum. Where the sole grounding electrode system is Ihe footing steel as covered in Section E3608.1.2, the
grounding electrode conductor shall not be required to be larger than 4 AWG copper conductor.
688
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
SERVICES
the overload protection. The sum of the ratings of the
circuit breakers or fuses shall be permitted to exceed
the ampacity of the service conductors, provided that
the calculated load does not exceed the ampacity of the
service conductors.
E3603.3.2 Not in grounded conductor. Overcurrent
devices shall not be connected in series with a grounded
service conductor except where a circuit breaker is used
that simultaneously opens all conductors of the circuit.
E3603.3.3 Location. The service overcurrent device shall
be an integral part of the service disconnecting means or
shall be located immediately adjacent thereto.
E3603.4 Grounding electrode conductor size. The ground-
ing electrode conductors shall be sized based on the size of
the service entrance conductors as required in Table E3603.1 .
E3603.5 Temperature limitations. Except where the equip-
ment is marked otherwise, conductor ampacities used in
determining equipment termination provisions shall be based
on Table E3603.1.
SECTION E3604
OVERHEAD SERVICE AND SERVICE-
ENTRANCE CONDUCTOR INSTALLATION
E3604.1 Clearances on buildings. Open conductors and
multiconductor cables without an overall outer jacket shall
have a clearance of not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from the
sides of doors, porches, decks, stairs, ladders, fire escapes and
balconies, and from the sides and bottom of windows that
open. See Figure E3604. 1 .
E3604.2 Vertical clearances. Overhead service conductors |
shall not have ready access and shall comply with Sections
E3604.2.1 and E3604.2.2.
E3604.2.1 Above roofs. Conductors shall have a vertical
clearance of not less than 8 feet (2438 mm) above the roof
surface. The vertical clearance above the roof level shall
be maintained for a distance of not less than 3 feet (914
mm) in all directions from the edge of the roof. See Figure
E3604.2.1.
Exceptions:
1. Conductors above a roof surface subject to pedes-
trian traffic shall have a vertical clearance from
the roof surface in accordance with Section
E3604.2.2.
2. Where the roof has a slope of 4 inches (102 mm)
in 12 inches (305 mm), or greater, the minimum
clearance shall be 3 feet (914 mm).
3. The minimum clearance above only the over-
hanging portion of the roof shall not be less than
18 inches (457 mm) where not more than 6 feet
(1829 mm) of overhead service conductor length |
3-FOOT CLEARANCE
CLEARANCE NOT REQUIRED FROM
NONOPENABLE WINDOWS
CLEARANCE NOT REQUIRED ABOVE OPENINGS
CLEARANCE NOT REQUIRED BETWEEN WINDOW
AND SE CABLE OR CONDUCTORS IN RACEWAY
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE E3604.1
CLEARANCES FROM BUILDING OPENINGS
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 85
689
SERVICES
passes over 4 feet (1219 mm) or less of roof sur-
face measured horizontally and such conductors
are terminated at a through-the-roof raceway or
approved support.
4. The requirement for maintaining the vertical
clearance for a distance of 3 feet (914 mm) from
the edge of the roof shall not apply to the final
conductor span where the service drop is attached
to the side of a building.
5. Where the voltage between conductors does not
exceed 300 and the roof area is guarded or iso-
lated, a reduction in clearance to 3 feet (914 mm)
shall be permitted.
E3604.2.2 Vertical clearance from grade. Overhead ser-
vice conductors shall have the following minimum clear-
ances from final grade:
1. For conductors supported on and cabled together
with a grounded bare messenger wire, the minimum
vertical clearance shall be 10 feet (3048 mm) at the
electric service entrance to buildings, at the lowest
point of the drip loop of the building electric
entrance, and above areas or sidewalks accessed by
pedestrians only. Such clearance shall be measured
from final grade or other accessible surfaces.
2. Twelve feet (3658 mm) — over residential property
and driveways.
3. Eighteen feet (5486 mm) — over public streets,
alleys, roads or parking areas subject to truck traffic.
E3604.3 Point of attachment. The point of attachment of the
service-drop conductors to a building or other structure shall
provide the minimum clearances as specified in Sections
E3604.1 through E3604.2.2. In no case shall the point of
attachment be less than 10 feet (3048 mm) above finished
grade.
E3604.4 Means of attachment. Multiconductor cables used
for overhead service conductors shall be attached to buildings
or other structures by fittings approved for the purpose.
E3604.5 Service masts as supports. Where a service mast is
used for the support of service-drop conductors, it shall be of
adequate strength or be supported by braces or guys to with-
stand the strain imposed by the service drop. Where raceway-
type service masts are used, all equipment shall be approved.
Only power service drop conductors shall be permitted to be
attached to a service mast.
SECTION E3604.2.1 AND EXCEPTION 1
SECTION E3604.2.1 EXCEPTION 2
SECTION 3604.2.1 AND EXCEPTION 3
3.FT-0 IN. e
-SECTIONE3604.2.1
MAINTAIN ALL
CLEARANCES 3 FT IN.
MINIMUM BEYOND THE
EDGE OF THE ROOF.
SEE EXCEPTION 4.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE E3604.2.1
CLEARANCES FROM ROOFS
690
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
SERVICES
E3604.6 Supports over buildings. Service conductors pass-
ing over a roof shall be securely supported. Where practica-
ble, such supports shall be independent of the building.
SECTION E3605
SERVICE-ENTRANCE CONDUCTORS
E3605.1 Insulation of service-entrance conductors. Ser-
vice-entrance conductors entering or on the exterior of build-
ings or other structures shall be insulated in accordance with
Section E3406.5.
Exceptions:
1 . A copper grounded conductor shall not be required
to be insulated where it is:
1 . 1 . In a raceway or part of a service cable
assembly,
1.2. Directly buried in soil of suitable condition,
or
1.3. Part of a cable assembly listed for direct
burial without regard to soil conditions.
2. An aluminum or copper-clad aluminum grounded
conductor shall not be required to be insulated
where part of a cable or where identified for direct
burial or utilization in underground raceways.
E3605.2 Wiring methods for services. Service-entrance
wiring methods shall be installed in accordance with the
applicable requirements in Chapter 38.
E3605.3 Spliced conductors. Service-entrance conductors
shall be permitted to be spliced or tapped. Splices shall be
made in enclosures or, if directly buried, with listed under-
ground splice kits. Conductor splices shall be made in accor-
dance with Chapters 34, 37, 38 and 39.
E3605.4 Protection of underground service entrance con-
ductors. Underground service-entrance conductors shall be
protected against physical damage in accordance with Chap-
ter 38.
E3605.5 Protection of all other service cables. Above-
ground service-entrance cables, where subject to physical
damage, shall be protected by one or more of the following:
rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, Schedule 80
PVC conduit, electrical metallic tubing or other approved
means.
E3605.6 Locations exposed to direct sunlight. Insulated
conductors and cables used where exposed to direct rays of
the sun shall comply with one of the following:
1. The conductors and cables shall be listed, or listed and
marked, as being sunlight resistant.
2. The conductors and cables are covered with insulating
material, such as tape or sleeving, that is listed, or listed
and marked, as being sunlight resistant.
E3605.7 Mounting supports. Service-entrance cables shall
be supported by straps or other approved means within 12
inches (305 mm) of every service head, gooseneck or connec-
tion to a raceway or enclosure and at intervals not exceeding
30 inches (762 mm).
E3605.8 Raceways to drain. Where exposed to the weather,
raceways enclosing service-entrance conductors shall be suit-
able for use in wet locations and arranged to drain. Where
embedded in masonry, raceways shall be arranged to drain.
E3605.9 Overhead service locations. Connections at service
heads shall be in accordance with Sections E3605.9.1 through
E3605.9.7.
E3605.9.1 Rain-tight service head. Service raceways
shall be equipped with a service head at the point of con-
nection to service-drop or overhead conductors. The ser-
vice head shall be listed for use in wet locations.
E3605.9.2 Service cable, service head or gooseneck.
Service-entrance cable shall be equipped with a service
head or shall be formed into a gooseneck in an approved
manner. The service head shall be listed for use in wet
locations.
E3605.9.3 Service-head location. Service heads, and
goosenecks in service-entrance cables, shall be located
above the point of attachment of the service-drop or over-
head service conductors to the building or other structure.
Exception: Where it is impracticable to locate the ser-
vice head or gooseneck above the point of attachment,
the service head or gooseneck location shall be not
more than 24 inches (610 mm) from the point of attach-
ment.
E3605.9.4 Separately bushed openings. Service heads
shall have conductors of different potential brought out
through separately bushed openings.
E3605.9.5 Drip loops. Drip loops shall be formed on indi-
vidual conductors. To prevent the entrance of moisture,
service-entrance conductors shall be connected to the ser-
vice-drop or overhead conductors either below the level of
the service head or below the level of the termination of
the service-entrance cable sheath.
E3605.9.6 Conductor arrangement. Service-entrance
and overhead service conductors shall be arranged so that
water will not enter service raceways or equipment.
E3605.9.7 Secured. Service-entrance cables shall be held
securely in place.
SECTION E3606
SERVICE EQUIPMENT— GENERAL
E3606.1 Service equipment enclosures. Energized parts of
service equipment shall be enclosed.
E3606.2 Working space. In no case shall the working space
in the vicinity of service equipment be less than that specified
in Chapter 34.
E3606.3 Available short-circuit current. Service equip-
ment shall be suitable for the maximum fault current avail-
able at its supply terminals, but not less than 10,000 amperes.
E3606.4 Marking. Service equipment shall be marked to
identify it as being suitable for use as service equipment. Ser-
vice equipment shall be listed. Individual meter socket enclo-
sures shall not be considered as service equipment.
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SECTION E3607
SYSTEM GROUNDING
E3607.1 System service ground. The premises wiring sys-
tem shall be grounded at the service with a grounding elec-
trode conductor connected to a grounding electrode system as
required by this code. Grounding electrode conductors shall
be sized in accordance with Table E3603.1 .
E3607.2 Location of grounding electrode conductor con-
nection. The grounding electrode conductor shall be con-
nected to the grounded service conductor at any accessible
point from the load end of the service drop or service lateral
to and including the terminal or bus to which the grounded
service conductor is connected at the service disconnecting
means. A grounding connection shall not be made to any
grounded circuit conductor on the load side of the service dis-
connecting means, except as provided in Section E3607.3.2.
E3607.3 Buildings or structures supplied by feeder(s) or
branch circuit(s). Buildings or structures supplied by
feeder(s) or branch circuit(s) shall have a grounding electrode
or grounding electrode system installed in accordance with
Section E3608. The grounding electrode conductor(s) shall
be connected in a manner specified in Section E3607.3.1 or,
for existing premises wiring systems only, Section
E3607.3.2. Where there is no existing grounding electrode,
the grounding electrode(s) required in Section E3608 shall be
installed.
Exception: A grounding electrode shall not be required
where only one branch circuit, including a multiwire
branch circuit, supplies the building or structure and the
branch circuit includes an equipment grounding conductor
for grounding the noncurrent-carrying parts of all equip-
ment. For the purposes of this section, a multiwire branch
circuit shall be considered as a single branch circuit.
E3607.3.1 Equipment grounding conductor. An equip-
ment grounding conductor as described in Section E3908
shall be run with the supply conductors and connected to
the building or structure disconnecting means and to the
grounding electrode(s). The equipment grounding conduc-
tor shall be used for grounding or bonding of equipment,
structures or frames required to be grounded or bonded.
The equipment grounding conductor shall be sized in
accordance with Section E3908.12. Any installed
grounded conductor shall not be connected to the equip-
ment grounding conductor or to the grounding elec-
trode^).
E3607.3.2 Grounded conductor, existing premises. For
installations made in compliance with previous editions of
this code that permitted such connection and where an
equipment grounding conductor is not ran with the supply
conductors to the building or structure, there are no contin-
uous metallic paths bonded to the grounding system in
both buildings or structures involved, and ground-fault
protection of equipment has not been installed on the sup-
ply side of the feeder(s), the grounded conductor run with
the supply to the buildings or structure shall be connected
to the building or structure disconnecting means and to the
grounding electrode(s) and shall be used for grounding or
bonding of equipment, structures, or frames required to be
grounded or bonded. Where used for grounding in accor-
dance with this provision, the grounded conductor shall be
not smaller than the larger of:
1. That required by Section E3704.3.
2. That required by Section E3908. 12.
E3607.4 Grounding electrode conductor. A grounding
electrode conductor shall be used to connect the equipment
grounding conductors, the service equipment enclosures, and
the grounded service conductor to the grounding electrode(s).
This conductor shall be sized in accordance with Table
E3603.1.
E3607.5 Main bonding jumper. An unspliced main bonding
jumper shall be used to connect the equipment grounding
conductor(s) and the service-disconnect enclosure to the
grounded conductor of the system within the enclosure for
each service disconnect.
E3607.6 Common grounding electrode. Where an ac sys-
tem is connected to a grounding electrode in or at a building
or structure, the same electrode shall be used to ground con-
ductor enclosures and equipment in or on that building or
structure. Where separate services, feeders or branch circuits
supply a building and are required to be connected to a
grounding electrode(s), the same grounding electrode(s) shall
be used. Two or more grounding electrodes that are effec-
tively bonded together shall be considered as a single ground-
ing electrode system.
SECTION E3608
GROUNDING ELECTRODE SYSTEM
E3608.1 Grounding electrode system. All electrodes speci-
fied in Sections E3608.1.1, E3608.1.2, E3608.1.3, E3608.1.4
E3608.1.5 and E3608.1.6 that are present at each building or
structure served shall be bonded together to form the ground-
ing electrode system. Where none of these electrodes are
present, one or more of the electrodes specified in Sections
E3608.1.3, E3608.1.4, E3608.1.5 and E3608.1.6 shall be
installed and used.
Exception: Concrete-encased electrodes of existing build-
ings or structures shall not be required to be part of the
grounding electrode system where the steel reinforcing
bars or rods are not accessible for use without disturbing
the concrete.
E3608.1.1 Metal underground water pipe. A metal
underground water pipe that is in direct contact with the
earth for 10 feet (3048 mm) or more, including any well
casing effectively bonded to the pipe and that is electri-
cally continuous, or made electrically continuous by bond-
ing around insulating joints or insulating pipe to the points
of connection of the grounding electrode conductor and
the bonding conductors, shall be considered as a ground-
ing electrode (see Section E3608.1). Interior metal water
piping located more than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the
entrance to the building shall not be used as part of the
grounding electrode system or as a conductor to intercon-
nect electrodes that are part of the grounding electrode
system.
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E3608. 1.1.1 Interior metal water piping. Interior
metal water piping located more than 5 feet (1 524 mm)
from the entrance to the building shall not be used as a
conductor to interconnect electrodes that are part of the
grounding electrode system.
E3608.1.1.2 Installation. Continuity of the grounding
path or the bonding connection to interior piping shall
not rely on water meters, filtering devices and similar
equipment. A metal underground water pipe shall be
supplemented by an additional electrode of a type spec-
ified in Sections E3608.1.2 through E3608.1.6. The
supplemental electrode shall be bonded to the ground-
ing electrode conductor, the grounded service-entrance
conductor, a nonflexible grounded service raceway,
any grounded service enclosure or to the equipment
grounding conductor provided in accordance with Sec-
tion E3607.3.1. Where the supplemental electrode is a
rod, pipe or plate electrode in accordance with Section
E3608.1.4 or E3608.1.5, it shall comply with Section
E3608.4.
Where the supplemental electrode is a rod, pipe or
plate electrode in accordance with Section E3608.1.4 or
E3608.1.5, that portion of the bonding jumper that is
the sole connection to the supplemental grounding elec-
trode shall not be required to be larger than 6 AWG
copper or 4 AWG aluminum wire.
E3608.1.2 Concrete-encased electrode. A concrete-
encased electrode consisting of at least 20 feet (6096 mm)
of either of the following shall be considered as a ground-
ing electrode:
1 . One or more bare or zinc galvanized or other electri-
cally conductive coated steel reinforcing bars or
rods not less than 7 2 inch (13 mm) in diameter,
installed in one continuous 20-foot (6096 mm)
length, or if in multiple pieces connected together by
the usual steel tie wires, exothermic welding, weld-
ing, or other effective means to create a 20-foot
(6096 mm) or greater length.
2. A bare copper conductor not smaller than 4 AWG.
Metallic components shall be encased by at least 2
inches (5 1 mm) of concrete and shall be located horizon-
tally within that portion of a concrete foundation or foot-
ing that is in direct contact with the earth or within vertical
foundations or structural components or members that are
in direct contact with the earth.
Where multiple concrete-encased electrodes are present
at a building or structure, only one shall be required to be
bonded into the grounding electrode system.
E3608.1.3 Ground rings. A ground ring encircling the
building or structure, in direct contact with the earth at a
depth below the earth's surface of not less than 30 inches
(762 mm), consisting of at least 20 feet (6096 mm) of bare
copper conductor not smaller than 2 AWG shall be consid-
ered as a grounding electrode.
E3608.1.4 Rod and pipe electrodes. Rod and pipe elec-
trodes not less than 8 feet (2438 mm) in length and con-
sisting of the following materials shall be considered as a
grounding electrode:
1. Grounding electrodes of pipe or conduit shall not be
smaller than trade size 3 / 4 (metric designator 21) and,
where of iron or steel, shall have the outer surface
galvanized or otherwise metal-coated for corrosion
protection.
2. Rod-type grounding electrodes of stainless steel and j
copper or zinc-coated steel shall be at least 5 / 8 inch
(1 5.9 mm) in diameter unless listed. |
E3608.1.4.1 Installation. The rod and pipe electrodes
shall be installed such that at least 8 feet (2438 mm) of
length is in contact with the soil. They shall be driven
to a depth of not less than 8 feet (2438 mm) except that,
where rock bottom is encountered, electrodes shall be
driven at an oblique angle not to exceed 45 degrees
(0.79 rad) from the vertical or shall be buried in a
trench that is at least 30 inches (762 mm) deep. The
upper end of the electrodes shall be flush with or below
ground level except where the aboveground end and the
grounding electrode conductor attachment are pro-
tected against physical damage.
E3608.1.5 Plate electrodes. A plate electrode that
exposes not less than 2 square feet (0. 1 86 m 2 ) of surface to
exterior soil shall be considered as a grounding electrode.
Electrodes of bare or conductively coated iron or steel 1
plates shall be at least 7 4 inch (6.4 mm) in thickness. Solid, I
uncoated electrodes of nonferrous metal shall be at least |
0.06 inch (1.5 mm) in thickness. Plate electrodes shall be
installed not less than 30 inches (762 mm) below the sur-
face of the earth.
E3608.1.6 Other electrodes. In addition to the grounding
electrodes specified in Sections E3608.1.1 through
E3608.1.5, other listed grounding electrodes shall be per-
mitted.
E3608.2 Bonding jumper. The bonding jumper(s) used to
connect the grounding electrodes together to form the
grounding electrode system shall be installed in accordance
with Sections E3610.2, and E3610.3, shall be sized in accor-
dance with Section E3603.4, and shall be connected in the
manner specified in Section E361 1.1.
E3608.3 Rod, pipe and plate electrode requirements.
Where practicable, rod, pipe and plate electrodes shall be
embedded below permanent moisture level. Such electrodes
shall be free from nonconductive coatings such as paint or
enamel. Where more than one such electrode is used, each
electrode of one grounding system shall be not less than 6
feet (1 829 mm) from any other electrode of another ground-
ing system. Two or more grounding electrodes that are effec-
tively bonded together shall be considered as a single
grounding electrode system. That portion of a bonding
jumper that is the sole connection to a rod, pipe or plate elec-
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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trode shall not be required to be larger than 6 AWG copper or
4 AWG aluminum wire.
E3608.4 Supplemental electrode required. A single rod,
pipe, or plate electrode shall be supplemented by an addi-
tional electrode of a type specified in Sections E3608.1.2
through E3608.1.6. The supplemental electrode shall be
bonded to one of the following:
1. A rod, pipe, or plate electrode.
2. A grounding electrode conductor.
3. A grounded service-entrance conductor.
4. A nonflexible grounded service raceway.
5. A grounded service enclosure.
Where multiple rod, pipe, or plate electrodes are installed
to meet the requirements of this section, they shall not be less
than 6 feet (1829 mm) apart.
Exception: Where a single rod, pipe, or plate grounding
electrode has a resistance to earth of 25 ohms or less, the
supplemental electrode shall not be required.
E3608.5 Aluminum electrodes. Aluminum electrodes shall
not be permitted.
E3608.6 Metal underground gas piping system. A metal
underground gas piping system shall not be used as a ground-
ing electrode.
SECTION E3609
BONDING
E3609.1 General. Bonding shall be provided where neces-
sary to ensure electrical continuity and the capacity to con-
duct safely any fault current likely to be imposed.
E3609.2 Bonding of equipment for services. The noncur-
rent-carrying metal parts of the following equipment shall be
effectively bonded together:
1 . Raceways or service cable armor or sheath that enclose,
contain, or support service conductors.
2. Service enclosures containing service conductors,
including meter fittings, and boxes, interposed in the
service raceway or armor.
E3609.3 Bonding for other systems. An intersystem bond-
ing termination for connecting intersystem bonding conduc-
tors required for other systems shall be provided external to
enclosures at the service equipment or metering equipment
enclosure and at the disconnecting means for any additional
buildings or structures. The intersystem bonding termination
shall comply with all of the following:
1 . It shall be accessible for connection and inspection.
2. It shall consist of a set of terminals with the capacity for
connection of not less than three intersystem bonding
conductors.
3. It shall not interfere with opening of the enclosure for a
service, building or structure disconnecting means, or
metering equipment.
4. Where located at the service equipment, it shall be
securely mounted and electrically connected to an
enclosure for the service equipment, to the meter enclo-
sure, or to an exposed nonflexible metallic service race-
way, or shall be mounted at one of these enclosures and
connected to the enclosure or to the grounding elec-
trode conductor with a 6 AWG or larger copper con-
ductor.
5. Where located at the disconnecting means for a build-
ing or structure, it shall be securely mounted and elec-
trically connected to the metallic enclosure for the
building or structure disconnecting means, or shall be
mounted at the disconnecting means and connected to
the metallic enclosure or to the grounding electrode
conductor with a 6 AWG or larger copper conductor.
6. It shall be listed as grounding and bonding equipment.
E3609.4 Method of bonding at the service. Bonding jump-
ers meeting the requirements of this chapter shall be used
around impaired connections, such as reducing washers or
oversized, concentric, or eccentric knockouts. Standard lock-
nuts or bushings shall not be the only means for the bonding
required by this section but shall be permitted to be installed
to make mechanical connections of raceways. Electrical con-
tinuity at service equipment, service raceways and service
conductor enclosures shall be ensured by one or more of the
methods specified in Sections E3609.4.1 through E3609.4.4.
E3609.4.1 Grounded service conductor. Equipment
shall be bonded to the grounded service conductor in a
manner provided in this code.
E3609.4.2 Threaded connections. Equipment shall be
bonded by connections using threaded couplings or
threaded hubs on enclosures. Such connections shall be j
made wrench tight.
E3609.4.3 Threadless couplings and connectors. Equip-
ment shall be bonded by threadless couplings and connec-
tors for metal raceways and metal-clad cables. Such
couplings and connectors shall be made wrench tight.
Standard locknuts or bushings shall not be used for the
bonding required by this section.
E3609.4.4 Other devices. Equipment shall be bonded by
other listed devices, such as bonding-type locknuts, bush-
ings and bushings with bonding jumpers.
E3609.5 Sizing supply-side bonding jumper and main
bonding jumper. The bonding jumper shall not be smaller
than the sizes shown in Table E3603.1 for grounding elec-
trode conductors. Where the service-entrance conductors are
paralleled in two or more raceways or cables, and an individ-
ual supply-side bonding jumper is used for bonding these
raceways or cables, the supply-side bonding jumper for each
raceway or cable shall be selected from Table E3603.1 based
on the size of the ungrounded supply conductors in each race-
way or cable. A single supply-side bonding jumper installed
for bonding two or more raceways or cables shall be sized in
accordance with Table E3603.1 based on the largest set of
parallel ungrounded supply conductors.
E3609.6 Metal water piping bonding. The metal water pip-
ing system shall be bonded to the service equipment enclo-
sure, the grounded conductor at the service, the grounding
electrode conductor where of sufficient size, or to the one or
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more grounding electrodes used. The bonding jumper shall be
sized in accordance with Table E3603.1. The points of attach-
ment of the bonding jumper(s) shall be accessible.
E3609.7 Bonding other metal piping. Where installed in or
attached to a building or structure, metal piping systems,
including gas piping, capable of becoming energized shall be
bonded to the service equipment enclosure, the grounded
conductor at the service, the grounding electrode conductor
where of sufficient size, or to the one or more grounding elec-
| trodes used. The bonding conductor(s) or jumper(s) shall be
sized in accordance with Table E3908.12 using the rating of
the circuit capable of energizing the piping. The equipment
grounding conductor for the circuit that is capable of energiz-
ing the piping shall be permitted to serve as the bonding
means. The points of attachment of the bonding jumper(s)
shall be accessible.
SECTION E3610
GROUNDING ELECTRODE CONDUCTORS
E3610.1 Continuous. The grounding electrode conductor
| shall be installed in one continuous length without splices or
joints and shall run to any convenient grounding electrode
available in the grounding electrode system where the other
electrode(s), if any, are connected by bonding jumpers in
accordance with Section E3608.2, or to one or more ground-
ing electrode(s) individually. The grounding electrode con-
ductor shall be sized for the largest grounding electrode
conductor required among all of the electrodes connected to
it.
Exception: Splicing of the grounding electrode conductor
by irreversible compression-type connectors listed as
grounding and bonding equipment or by the exothermic
welding process shall not be prohibited.
E3610.2 Securing and protection against physical dam-
age. Where exposed, a grounding electrode conductor or its
enclosure shall be securely fastened to the surface on which it
Iis carried. Grounding electrode conductors shall be permitted
to be installed on or through framing members. A 4 AWG or
larger conductor shall be protected where exposed to physical
damage. A 6 AWG grounding conductor that is free from
exposure to physical damage shall be permitted to be run
along the surface of the building construction without metal
covering or protection where it is and securely fastened to the
construction; otherwise, it shall be in rigid metal conduit,
■ intermediate metal conduit, rigid polyvinyl chloride (PVC),
nonmetallic conduit, reinforced thermosetting resin (RTRC)
nonmetallic conduit, electrical metallic tubing or cable armor.
Grounding electrode conductors smaller than 6 AWG shall be
in rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, rigid poly-
vinyl chloride (PVC) nonmetallic conduit, reinforced thermo-
seting resin (RTRC) nonmetallic conduit, electrical metallic
tubing or cable armor.
■ Bare aluminum or copper-clad aluminum grounding elec-
trode conductors shall not be used where in direct contact
with masonry or the earth or where subject to corrosive con-
ditions. Where used outside, aluminum or copper-clad alumi-
I num grounding electrode conductors shall not be installed
within 1 8 inches (457 mm) of the earth.
E3610.3 Enclosures for grounding electrode conductors.
Ferrous metal enclosures for grounding electrode conductors
shall be electrically continuous from the point of attachment
to cabinets or equipment to the grounding electrode, and shall
be securely fastened to the ground clamp or fitting. Nonfer-
rous metal enclosures shall not be required to be electrically
continuous. Ferrous metal enclosures that are not physically
continuous from cabinet or equipment to the grounding elec-
trode shall be made electrically continuous by bonding each
end to the grounding electrode conductor. Bonding methods
in compliance with Section E3609.4 for installations at ser-
vice equipment locations and with E3609.4. 2(B)(2) through
E3609.4.4 for other than service equipment locations shall
apply at each end and to all intervening ferrous raceways,
boxes, and enclosures between the cabinets or equipment and
the grounding electrode. The bonding jumper for a ground-
ing electrode conductor raceway shall be the same size or
larger than the required enclosed grounding electrode con-
ductor.
Where a raceway is used as protection for a grounding
conductor, the installation shall comply with the requirements
of Chapter 38.
E3610.4 Prohibited use. An equipment grounding conductor
shall not be used as a grounding electrode conductor.
SECTION E3611
GROUNDING ELECTRODE CONDUCTOR
CONNECTION TO THE GROUNDING ELECTRODES
E3611.1 Methods of grounding conductor connection to
electrodes. The grounding or bonding conductor shall be
connected to the grounding electrode by exothermic welding,
listed lugs, listed pressure connectors, listed clamps or other
listed means. Connections depending on solder shall not be
used. Ground clamps shall be listed for the materials of the
grounding electrode and the grounding electrode conductor
and, where used on pipe, rod or other buried electrodes, shall
also be listed for direct soil burial or concrete encasement.
Not more than one conductor shall be connected to the
grounding electrode by a single clamp or fitting unless the
clamp or fitting is listed for multiple conductors. One of the
methods indicated in the following items shall be used:
1. A pipe fitting, pipe plug or other approved device
screwed into a pipe or pipe fitting.
2. A listed bolted clamp of cast bronze or brass, or plain
or malleable iron.
3. For indoor communications purposes only, a listed
sheet metal strap-type ground clamp having a rigid
metal base that seats on the electrode and having a strap
of such material and dimensions that it is not likely to
stretch during or after installation.
4. Other equally substantial approved means.
E3611.2 Accessibility. All mechanical elements used to ter-
minate a grounding electrode conductor or bonding jumper to
the grounding electrodes that are not buried or concrete
encased shall be accessible.
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E3611.3 Effective grounding path. The connection of the
grounding electrode conductor or bonding jumper shall be
made in a manner that will ensure a permanent and effective
grounding path. Where necessary to ensure effective ground-
ing for a metal piping system used as a grounding electrode,
effective bonding shall be provided around insulated joints
and sections and around any equipment that is likely to be
disconnected for repairs or replacement. Bonding jumpers
shall be of sufficient length to permit removal of such equip-
ment while retaining the integrity of the grounding path.
E3611.4 Interior metal water piping. Where grounding
electrode conductors and bonding jumpers are connected to
interior metal water piping as a means to extend the ground-
ing electrode conductor connection to an electrode(s), such
piping shall be located not more than 5 feet (1524 mm) from
the point of entry into the building.
Where interior metal water piping is used as a conductor to
interconnect electrodes that are part of the grounding elec-
trode system, such piping shall be located not more than 5
feet (1524 mm) from the point of entry into the building.
E3611.5 Protection of ground clamps and fittings. Ground
clamps or other fittings shall be approved for applications
without protection or shall be protected from physical dam-
age by installing them where they are not likely to be dam-
aged or by enclosing them in metal, wood or equivalent
protective coverings.
E3611.6 Clean surfaces. Nonconductive coatings (such as
paint, enamel and lacquer) on equipment to be grounded shall
be removed from threads and other contact surfaces to ensure
good electrical continuity or shall be connected by fittings
that make such removal unnecessary.
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CHAPTER 37
BRANCH CIRCUIT AND FEEDER REQUIREMENTS
SECTION E3701
GENERAL
E3701.1 Scope. This chapter covers branch circuits and feed-
ers and specifies the minimum required branch circuits, the
allowable loads and the required overcurrent protection for
branch circuits and feeders that serve less than 100 percent of
the total dwelling unit load. Feeder circuits that serve 100
percent of the dwelling unit load shall be sized in accordance
with the procedures in Chapter 36.
E3701.2 Branch-circuit and feeder ampacity. Branch-cir-
cuit and feeder conductors shall have ampacities not less than
the maximum load to be served. Where a branch circuit or a
feeder supplies continuous loads or any combination of con-
tinuous and noncontinuous loads, the minimum branch-cir-
cuit or feeder conductor size, before the application of any
adjustment or correction factors, shall have an allowable
ampacity equal to or greater than the noncontinuous load plus
1 25 percent of the continuous load.
| Exception: The grounded conductors of feeders that are
not connected to an overcurrent device shall be permitted
to be sized at 100 percent of the continuous and noncon-
tinuous load.
E3701.3 Selection of ampacity. Where more than one calcu-
lated or tabulated ampacity could apply for a given circuit
length, the lowest value shall be used.
Exception: Where two different ampacities apply to adja-
cent portions of a circuit, the higher ampacity shall be per-
mitted to be used beyond the point of transition, a distance
equal to 10 feet (3048 mm) or 10 percent of the circuit
length figured at the higher ampacity, whichever is less.
E3701.4 Branch circuits with more than one receptacle.
■ Conductors of branch circuits supplying more than one recep-
tacle for cord-and-plug-connected portable loads shall have
ampacities of not less than the rating of the branch circuit.
E3701.5 Multiwire branch circuits. All conductors for mul-
tiwire branch circuits shall originate from the same panel-
board or similar distribution equipment. Except where all
ungrounded conductors are opened simultaneously by the
branch-circuit overcurrent device, multiwire branch circuits
shall supply only line-to-neutral loads or only one appliance.
E3701.5.1 Disconnecting means. Each multiwire branch
circuit shall be provided with a means that will simultane-
ously disconnect all ungrounded conductors at the point
where the branch circuit originates.
IE3701.5.2 Grouping. The ungrounded and grounded cir-
cuit conductors of each multiwire branch circuit shall be
grouped by cable ties or similar means in at least one loca-
tion within the panelboard or other point of origination.
Exception: Grouping shall not be required where the
circuit conductors enter from a cable or raceway unique
to the circuit, thereby making the grouping obvious.
SECTION E3702
BRANCH CIRCUIT RATINGS
E3702.1 Branch-circuit voltage limitations. The voltage
ratings of branch circuits that supply luminaires or recepta-
cles for cord-and-plug-connected loads of up to 1 ,400 volt-
amperes or of less than V 4 horsepower (0.186 kW) shall be
limited to a maximum rating of 1 20 volts, nominal, between
conductors.
Branch circuits that supply cord-and-plug-connected or
permanently connected utilization equipment and appliances
rated at over 1,440 volt-amperes or 7 4 horsepower (0.186
kW) and greater shall be rated at 120 volts or 240 volts, nom-
inal.
E3702.2 Branch-circuit ampere rating. Branch circuits
shall be rated in accordance with the maximum allowable
ampere rating or setting of the overcurrent protection device.
The rating for other than individual branch circuits shall be
15, 20, 30, 40 and 50 amperes. Where conductors of higher
ampacity are used, the ampere rating or setting of the speci-
fied over-current device shall determine the circuit rating.
E3702.3 Fifteen- and 20-ampere branch circuits. A 15- or
20-ampere branch circuit shall be permitted to supply lighting
units, or other utilization equipment, or a combination of
both. The rating of any one cord-and-plug-connected utiliza-
tion equipment not fastened in place shall not exceed 80 per-
cent of the branch-circuit ampere rating. The total rating of
utilization equipment fastened in place, other than luminaires,
shall not exceed 50 percent of the branch-circuit ampere rat-
ing where lighting units, cord-and-plug-connected utilization
equipment not fastened in place, or both, are also supplied.
E3702.4 Thirty-ampere branch circuits. A 30-ampere
branch circuit shall be permitted to supply fixed utilization
equipment. A rating of any one cord-and-plug-connected uti-
lization equipment shall not exceed 80 percent of the branch-
circuit ampere rating.
E3702.5 Branch circuits serving multiple loads or outlets.
General-purpose branch circuits shall supply lighting outlets,
appliances, equipment or receptacle outlets, and combina-
tions of such. Multi-outlet branch circuits serving lighting or
receptacles shall be limited to a maximum branch-circuit rat-
ing of 20 amperes.
E3702.6 Branch circuits serving a single motor. Branch-
circuit conductors supplying a single motor shall have an
ampacity not less than 125 percent of the motor full-load cur-
rent rating.
E3702.7 Branch circuits serving motor-operated and
combination loads. For circuits supplying loads consisting
of motor-operated utilization equipment that is fastened in
place and that has a motor larger than V 8 horsepower (0.093
kW) in combination with other loads, the total calculated load
shall be based on 125 percent of the largest motor load plus
the sum of the other loads.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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E3702.8 Branch-circuit inductive and LED lighting loads.
■ For circuits supplying luminaires having ballasts or LED
drivers, the calculated load shall be based on the total ampere
ratings of such units and not on the total watts of the lamps.
E3702.9 Branch-circuit load for ranges and cooking
appliances. It shall be permissible to calculate the branch-cir-
cuit load for one range in accordance with Table E3704.2(2).
The branch-circuit load for one wall-mounted oven or one
counter-mounted cooking unit shall be the nameplate rating
of the appliance. The branch-circuit load for a counter-
mounted cooking unit and not more than two wall-mounted
ovens all supplied from a single branch circuit and located in
the same room shall be calculated by adding the nameplate
ratings of the individual appliances and treating the total as
equivalent to one range.
E3702.9.1 Minimum branch circuit for ranges. Ranges
with a rating of 8.75 kVA or more shall be supplied by a
branch circuit having a minimum rating of 40 amperes.
E3702.10 Branch circuits serving heating loads. Electric
space-heating and water-heating appliances shall be consid-
ered continuous loads. Branch circuits supplying two or more
outlets for fixed electric space-heating equipment shall be
rated 15, 20, 25 or 30 amperes.
E3702.ll Branch circuits for air-conditioning and heat
pump equipment. The ampacity of the conductors supplying
multimotor and combination load equipment shall not be less
than the minimum circuit ampacity marked on the equipment.
The branch-circuit overcurrent device rating shall be the size
and type marked on the appliance.
E3702.12 Branch circuits serving room air conditioners.
A room air conditioner shall be considered as a single motor
unit in determining its branch-circuit requirements where all
the following conditions are met:
1 . It is cord- and attachment plug-connected.
2. The rating is not more than 40 amperes and 250 volts;
single phase.
3. Total rated-load current is shown on the room air-con-
ditioner nameplate rather than individual motor cur-
rents.
4. The rating of the branch-circuit short-circuit and
ground-fault protective device does not exceed the
ampacity of the branch-circuit conductors, or the rating
of the branch-circuit conductors, or the rating of the
receptacle, whichever is less.
E3702.12.1 Where no other loads are supplied. The
total marked rating of a cord- and attachment plug-con-
nected room air conditioner shall not exceed 80 percent of
the rating of a branch circuit where no other appliances are
also supplied.
E3702.12.2 Where lighting units or other appliances
are also supplied. The total marked rating of a cord- and
attachment plug-connected room air conditioner shall not
exceed 50 percent of the rating of a branch circuit where
lighting or other appliances are also supplied. Where the
circuitry is interlocked to prevent simultaneous operation
of the room air conditioner and energization of other out-
lets on the same branch circuit, a cord- and attachment-
plug-connected room air conditioner shall not exceed 80
percent of the branch-circuit rating.
E3702.13 Branch-circuit requirement — summary. The
requirements for circuits having two or more outlets, or
receptacles, other than the receptacle circuits of Sections
E3703.2, E3703.3 and E3703.4, are summarized in Table
E3702.13. Branch circuits in dwelling units shall supply only
loads within that dwelling unit or loads associated only with
that dwelling unit. Branch circuits installed for the purpose of
lighting, central alarm, signal, communications or other pur-
poses for public or common areas of a two-family dwelling
shall not be supplied from equipment that supplies an individ-
ual dwelling unit.
TABLE E3702.13
BRANCH-CIRCUIT REQUIREMENTS-SUMMARY 3 b
CIRCUIT RATING
15amp
20 amp
30 amp
Conductors:
Minimum size (AWG)
circuit conductors
14
12
10
Maximum overcurrent-
protection device rating
Ampere rating
15
20
30
Outlet devices:
Lampholders permitted
Receptacle rating (amperes)
Any type 15
maximum
Any type
15 or 20
N/A
30
Maximum load (amperes)
15
20
30
a. These gages are for copper conductors.
b. N/A means not allowed.
SECTION E3703
REQUIRED BRANCH CIRCUITS
E3703.1 Branch circuits for heating. Central heating equip-
ment other than fixed electric space heating shall be supplied
by an individual branch circuit. Permanently connected air-
conditioning equipment, and auxiliary equipment directly
associated with the central heating equipment such as pumps,
motorized valves, humidifiers and electrostatic air cleaners,
shall not be prohibited from connecting to the same branch
circuit as the central heating equipment.
E3703.2 Kitchen and dining area receptacles. A minimum
of two 20-ampere-rated branch circuits shall be provided to
serve all wall and floor receptacle outlets located in the
kitchen, pantry, breakfast area, dining area or similar area of a
dwelling. The kitchen countertop receptacles shall be served
by a minimum of two 20-ampere-rated branch circuits, either
or both of which shall also be permitted to supply other
receptacle outlets in the same kitchen, pantry, breakfast and
dining area including receptacle outlets for refrigeration
appliances.
Exception: The receptacle outlet for refrigeration appli-
ances shall be permitted to be supplied from an individual
branch circuit rated 15 amperes or greater.
E3703.3 Laundry circuit. A minimum of one 20-ampere-
rated branch circuit shall be provided for receptacles located
698
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
BRANCH CIRCUIT AND FEEDER REQUIREMENTS
in the laundry area and shall serve only receptacle outlets
located in the laundry area.
E3703.4 Bathroom branch circuits. A minimum of one 20-
ampere branch circuit shall be provided to supply bathroom
receptacle outlet(s). Such circuits shall have no other outlets.
Exception: Where the 20-ampere circuit supplies a single
bathroom, outlets for other equipment within the same
bathroom shall be permitted to be supplied in accordance
with Section E3702.
E3703.5 Number of branch circuits. The minimum number
of branch circuits shall be determined from the total calcu-
lated load and the size or rating of the circuits used. The num-
ber of circuits shall be sufficient to supply the load served. In
no case shall the load on any circuit exceed the maximum
specified by Section E3702.
E3703.6 Branch-circuit load proportioning. Where the
branch-circuit load is calculated on a volt-amperes-per-
square-foot (m 2 ) basis, the wiring system, up to and including
the branch-circuit panelboard(s), shall have the capacity to
serve not less than the calculated load. This load shall be
evenly proportioned among multioutlet branch circuits within
the panelboard(s). Branch-circuit overcurrent devices and cir-
cuits shall only be required to be installed to serve the con-
nected load.
SECTION E3704
FEEDER REQUIREMENTS
E3704.1 Conductor size. Feeder conductors that do not
serve 100 percent of the dwelling unit load and branch-circuit
conductors shall be of a size sufficient to carry the load as
determined by this chapter. Feeder conductors shall not be
required to be larger than the service-entrance conductors that
supply the dwelling unit. The load for feeder conductors that
serve as the main power feeder to a dwelling unit shall be
determined as specified in Chapter 36 for services.
E3704.2 Feeder loads. The minimum load in volt-amperes
shall be calculated in accordance with the load calculation
procedure prescribed in Table E3704.2(l). The associated
table demand factors shall be applied to the actual load to
determine the minimum load for feeders.
E3704.3 Feeder neutral load. The feeder neutral load shall
be the maximum unbalance of the load determined in accor-
dance with this chapter. The maximum unbalanced load shall
be the maximum net calculated load between the neutral and
any one ungrounded conductor. For a feeder or service sup-
plying electric ranges, wall-mounted ovens, counter-mounted
cooking units and electric dryers, the maximum unbalanced
load shall be considered as 70 percent of the load on the
ungrounded conductors.
E3704.4 Lighting and general use receptacle load. A unit
load of not less than 3 volt-amperes shall constitute the mini-
mum lighting and general use receptacle load for each square
foot of floor area (33 VA for each square meter of floor area).
The floor area for each floor shall be calculated from the out-
side dimensions of the building. The calculated floor area
shall not include open porches, garages, or unused or unfin-
ished spaces not adaptable for future use.
E3704.5 Ampacity and calculated loads. The calculated
load of a feeder shall be not less than the sum of the loads on
the branch circuits supplied, as determined by Section E3704,
after any applicable demand factors permitted by Section
E3704 have been applied.
TABLE E3704.2(1)
FEEDER LOAD CALCULATION
LOAD CALCULATION PROCEDURE
APPLIED DEMAND FACTOR
Lighting and receptacles: A unit load of not less than 3 VA per square
foot of total floor area shall constitute the lighting and 120-volt, 15-
and 20-ampere general use receptacle load. 1 ,500 VA shall be added
for each 20-ampere branch circuit serving receptacles in the kitchen,
dining room, pantry, breakfast area and laundry area.
100 percent of first 3,000 VA or less and 35 percent of that in excess
of 3,000 V A.
Plus
Appliances and motors: The nameplate rating load of all fastened-in-
place appliances other than dryers, ranges, air-conditioning and space-
heating equipment.
100 percent of load for three or less appliances.
75 percent of load for four or more appliances.
Plus
Fixed motors: Full-load current of motors plus 25 percent of the full load current of the largest motor.
Plus
Electric clothes dryer: The dryer load shall be 5,000 VA for each dryer circuit or the nameplate rating load of each dryer, whichever is greater.
Plus
Cooking appliances: The nameplate rating of ranges, wall-mounted
ovens, counter-mounted cooking units and other cooking appliances
rated in excess of 1.75 kVA shall be summed.
Demand factors shall be as allowed by Table E3704.2(2).
Plus the largest of either the heating or cooling load
Largest of the following two selections:
1 . 100 percent of the nameplate rating(s) of the air conditioning and cooling, including heat pump compressors.
2.100 percent of the fixed electric space heating.
For SI: 1 square foot = 0.0929 ml
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 9
699
BRANCH CIRCUIT AND FEEDER REQUIREMENTS
TABLE E3704.2(2)
DEMAND LOADS FOR ELECTRIC RANGES, WALL-MOUNTED OVENS, COUNTER-MOUNTED
COOKING UNITS AND OTHER COOKING APPLIANCES OVER 1 3 / 4 kVA RATING""
NUMBER OF APPLIANCES
MAXIMUM DEMAND" °
DEMAND FACTORS (percent)"
Column A
maximum 12 kVA rating
Column B
less than 3 1 / 2 kVA rating
Column C
37 2 to 8 3 / 4 kVA rating
1
8kVA
80
80
2
llkVA
75
65
a. Column A shall be used in all cases except as provided for in Footnote d.
b. For ranges all having the same rating and individually rated more than 12 kVA but not more than 27 kVA, the maximum demand in Column A shall be
increased 5 percent for each additional kVA of rating or major fraction thereof by which the rating of individual ranges exceeds 1 2 kVA.
c. For ranges of unequal ratings and individually rated more than 8.75 kVA, but none exceeding 27 kVA, an average value of rating shall be computed by adding
together the ratings of all ranges to obtain the total connected load (using 1 2 kVA for any ranges rated less than 12 kVA) and dividing by the total number of
ranges; and then the maximum demand in Column A shall be increased 5 percent for each kVA or major fraction thereof by which this average value exceeds
12kVA.
d. Over 1 75 kVA through 8.75 kVA. As an alternative to the method provided in Column A, the nameplate ratings of all ranges rated more than 1 .75 kVA but
not more than 8.75 kVA shall be added and the sum shall be multiplied by the demand factor specified in Column B or C for the given number of appliances.
E3704.6 Equipment grounding conductor. Where a feeder
supplies branch circuits in which equipment grounding con-
ductors are required, the feeder shall include or provide an
equipment grounding conductor that is one or more or a com-
bination of the types specified in Section E3908.8, to which
the equipment grounding conductors of the branch circuits
shall be connected. Where the feeder supplies a separate
building or structure, the requirements of Section E3607.3.1
shall apply.
SECTION E3705
CONDUCTOR SIZING AND OVERCURRENT
PROTECTION
E3705.1 General. Ampacities for conductors shall be deter-
mined based in accordance with Table E3705.1 and Sections
E3705.2andE3705.3.
E3705.2 Correction factor for ambient temperatures. For
ambient temperatures other than 30°C (86°F), multiply the
allowable ampacities specified in Table E3705.1 by the
appropriate correction factor shown in Table E3705.2.
E3705.3 Adjustment factor for conductor proximity.
Where the number of current-carrying conductors in a race-
way or cable exceeds three, or where single conductors or
multiconductor cables are stacked or bundled for distances
greater than 24 inches (610 mm) without maintaining spacing
and are not installed in raceways, the allowable ampacity of
each conductor shall be reduced as shown in Table E3705.3.
Exceptions:
1. Adjustment factors shall not apply to conductors in
nipples having a length not exceeding 24 inches
(610 mm).
2. Adjustment factors shall not apply to underground
conductors entering or leaving an outdoor trench if
those conductors have physical protection in the
form of rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal con-
duit, or rigid nonmetallic conduit having a length not
exceeding 10 feet (3048 mm) and the number of
conductors does not exceed four.
3. Adjustment factors shall not apply to type AC cable
or to type MC cable without an overall outer jacket
meeting all of the following conditions:
3.1. Each cable has not more than three current-
carrying conductors.
3.2. The conductors are 12 AWG copper.
3.3. Not more than 20 current-carrying conduc-
tors are bundled, stacked or supported on
bridle rings.
4. An adjustment factor of 60 percent shall be applied
to Type AC cable and Type MC cable where all of
the following conditions apply:
4.1. The cables do not have an overall outer
jacket.
4.2. The number of current-carrying conductors
exceeds 20.
4.3. The cables are stacked or bundled longer
than 24 inches (607 mm) without spacing
being maintained.
TABLE E3705.3
CONDUCTOR PROXIMITY ADJUSTMENT FACTORS
NUMBER OF CURRENT-CARRYING
CONDUCTORS IN CABLE OR RACEWAY
PERCENT OF VALUES IN
TABLE E3705.1
4-6
80
7-9
70
10-20
50
21-30
45
31-40
40
41 and above
35
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
BRANCH CIRCUIT AND FEEDER REQUIREMENTS
TABLE E3705.1
ALLOWABLE AMPACITIES
CONDUCTOR
SIZE
CONDUCTOR TEMPERATURE RATING
CONDUCTOR
SIZE
60°C
75X
90°C
60°C
75°C
90°C
AWG
kcmil
Types
TW, UF
Types
RHW, THHW,
THW, THWN,
USE, XHHW
Types
RHW-2, THHN,
THHW, THW-2,
THWN-2, XHHW,
XHHW-2, USE-2
Types
TW, UF
Types
RHW, THHW,
THW, THWN,
USE, XHHW
Types
RHW-2, THHN,
THHW, THW-2,
THWN-2, XHHW,
XHHW-2, USE-2
AWG
kcmil
Copper
Aluminum or copper-clad aluminum
14»
12"
10'
8
15
20
30
40
20
25
35
50
25
30
40
55
15
25
35
20
30
40
25
35
45
12"
10 !1
8
6
4
3
2
1
55
70
85
95
110
65
85
100
115
130
75
95
115
130
145
40
55
65
75
85
50
65
75
90
100
55
75
85
100
115
6
4
3
2
1
I/O
2/0
3/0
4/0
125
145
165
195
150
175
200
230
170
195
225
260
100
115
130
150
120
135
155
180
135
150
175
205
1/0
2/0
3/0
4/0
For SI: °C = [(°F) - 32]/1.8.
a. See Table E3705.5.3 for conductor overcurrent protection limitations.
TABLE E3705.2
AMBIENT TEMPERATURE CORRECTION FACTORS
For ambient temperatures other than 30°C (86°F), multiply the
allowable ampacities specified in the ampacity tables
by the appropriate correction factor shown below.
Ambient
Temperature
(°C)
Temperature Rating of Conductor
Ambient
Temperature
<°F)
60°C
75°C
90°C
10 or less
1.29
1.20
1.15
50 or less
11-15
1.22
1.15
1.12
51-59
16-20
1.15
1.11
1.08
60-68
21-25
1.08
1.05
1.04
69-77
26-30
1.00
1.00
1.00
78-86
31-35
0.91
0.94
0.96
87-95
36-40
0.82
0.88
0.91
96-104
41-45
0.71
0.82
0.87
105-113
46-50
0.58
0.75
0.82
114-122
51-55
0.41
0.67
0.76
123-131
56-60
—
0.58
0.71
132-140
61-65
—
0.47
0.65
141-149
66-70
—
0.33
0.58
150-158
71-75
—
—
0.50
159-167
76-80
—
—
0.41
168-176
81-85
—
—
0.29
177-185
For SI: 1 °C = [(°F) - 32]/1.8.
E3705.4 Temperature limitations. The temperature rating
associated with the ampacity of a conductor shall be so
selected and coordinated to not exceed the lowest tempera-
ture rating of any connected termination, conductor or device.
Conductors with temperature ratings higher than specified for
terminations shall be permitted to be used for ampacity
adjustment, correction, or both. Except where the equipment
is marked otherwise, conductor ampacities used in determin-
ing equipment termination provisions shall be based on Table
E3705.1.
E3705.4.1 Conductors rated 60°C. Except where the
equipment is marked otherwise, termination provisions of
equipment for circuits rated 100 amperes or less, or
marked for 14 AWG through 1 AWG conductors, shall be
used only for one of the following:
1. Conductors rated 60°C(140°F);
2. Conductors with higher temperature ratings, pro-
vided that the ampacity of such conductors is deter-
mined based on the 60°C (140°F) ampacity of the
conductor size used;
3. Conductors with higher temperature ratings where
the equipment is listed and identified for use with
such conductors; or
4. For motors marked with design letters B, C, or D
conductors having an insulation rating of 75°C
(167°F) or higher shall be permitted to be used pro-
vided that the ampacity of such conductors does not
exceed the 75°C (167°F) ampacity.
E3705.4.2 Conductors rated 75°C. Termination provi-
sions of equipment for circuits rated over 100 amperes, or
marked for conductors larger than 1 AWG, shall be used
only for:
1. Conductors rated 75°C (167°F).
2. Conductors with higher temperature ratings pro-
vided that the ampacity of such conductors does not
exceed the 75°C (167°F) ampacity of the conductor
size used, or provided that the equipment is listed
and identified for use with such conductors.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
701
BRANCH CIRCUIT AND FEEDER REQUIREMENTS
E3705.4.3 Separately installed pressure connectors.
Separately installed pressure connectors shall be used with
conductors at the ampacities not exceeding the ampacity at
the listed and identified temperature rating of the connec-
tor.
E3705.4.4 Conductors of Type NM cable. Conductors in
NM cable assemblies shall be rated at 90°C (194°F).
Types NM, NMC, and NMS cable identified by the mark-
ings NM-B, NMC B, and NMS-B meet this requirement.
The allowable ampacity of Types NM, NMC, and NMS
cable shall not exceed that of 60°C (140°F) rated conduc-
tors and shall comply with Section E3705.1 and Table
E3705.5.3. The 90°C (194°F) rating shall be permitted to
be used for ampacity adjustment and calculations provided
that the final corrected or adjusted ampacity does not
exceed that for a 60°C (140°F) rated conductor. Where
more than two NM cables containing two or more current-
carrying conductors are installed, without maintaining
spacing between the cables, through the same opening in
wood framing that is to be sealed with thermal insulation,
caulk or sealing foam, the allowable ampacity of each con-
ductor shall be adjusted in accordance with Table
E3705.3. Where more than two NM cables containing two
or more current-carrying conductors are installed in con-
tact with thermal insulation without maintaining spacing
between cables, the allowable ampacity of each conductor
shall be adjusted in accordance with Table E3705.3.
E3705.5 Overcurrent protection required. All ungrounded
branch-circuit and feeder conductors shall be protected
against overcurrent by an overcurrent device installed at the
point where the conductors receive their supply. Overcurrent
devices shall not be connected in series with a grounded con-
ductor. Overcurrent protection and allowable loads for branch
circuits and feeders that do not serve as the main power
feeder to the dwelling unit load shall be in accordance with
this chapter.
Branch-circuit conductors and equipment shall be pro-
tected by overcurrent protective devices having a rating or
setting not exceeding the allowable ampacity specified in
Table E3705.1 and Sections E3705.2, E3705.3 and E3705.4
except where otherwise permitted or required in Sections
E3705.5.1 through E3705.5.3.
E3705.5.1 Cords. Cords shall be protected in accordance
with Section E3909.2.
E3705.5.2 Overcurrent devices of the next higher rat-
ing. The next higher standard overcurrent device rating,
above the ampacity of the conductors being protected,
shall be permitted to be used, provided that all of the fol-
lowing conditions are met:
1. The conductors being protected are not part of a
branch circuit supplying more than one receptacle
for cord- and plug-connected portable loads.
2. The ampacity of conductors does not correspond
with the standard ampere rating of a fuse or a circuit
breaker without overload trip adjustments above its
rating (but that shall be permitted to have other trip
or rating adjustments).
3. The next higher standard device rating does not
exceed 400 amperes.
E3705.5.3 Small conductors. Except as specifically per-
mitted by Section E3705.5.4, the rating of overcurrent pro-
tection devices shall not exceed the ratings shown in Table
E3705.5.3 for the conductors specified therein.
TABLE E3705.5.3
OVERCURRENT-PROTECTION RATING
COPPER
ALUMINUM OR COPPER-CLAD
ALUMINUM
Size
(AWG)
Maximum overcurrent-
protection-device rating"
(amps)
Size
(AWG)
Maximum overcurrent-
protection-device rating"
(amps)
14
15
12
15
12
20
10
25
10
30
8
30
a. The maximum overcurrent-protection-device rating shall not exceed the
conductor allowable ampacity determined by the application of the
correction and adjustment factors in accordance with Sections E3705.2
and E3705.3.
E3705.5.4 Air-conditioning and heat pump equipment.
Air-conditioning and heat pump equipment circuit con-
ductors shall be permitted to be protected against overcur-
rent in accordance with Section E3702. 1 1 .
E3705.6 Fuses and fixed trip circuit breakers. The stan-
dard ampere ratings for fuses and inverse time circuit break-
ers shall be considered 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 60, 70,
80, 90, 100, 110, 125, 150, 175, 200, 225, 250, 300, 350 and
400 amperes.
E3705.7 Location of overcurrent devices in or on prem-
ises. Overcurrent devices shall:
1 . Be readily accessible.
2. Not be located where they will be exposed to physical
damage.
3. Not be located where they will be in the vicinity of eas-
ily ignitible material such as in clothes closets.
4. Not be located in bathrooms.
5. Not be located over steps of a stairway.
6. Be installed so that the center of the grip of the operat-
ing handle of the switch or circuit breaker, when in its
highest position, is not more than 6 feet 7 inches (2007
mm) above the floor or working platform.
Exceptions:
1. This section shall not apply to supplementary over-
current protection that is integral to utilization
equipment.
2. Overcurrent devices installed adjacent to the utiliza-
tion equipment that they supply shall be permitted to
be accessible by portable means.
E3705.8 Ready access for occupants. Each occupant shall
have ready access to all overcurrent devices protecting the
conductors supplying that occupancy.
E37Q5.9 Enclosures for overcurrent devices. Overcurrent
devices shall be enclosed in cabinets, cutout boxes, or equip-
ment assemblies. The operating handle of a circuit breaker
702
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
BRANCH CIRCUIT AND FEEDER REQUIREMENTS
shall be permitted to be accessible without opening a door or
SECTION E3706
PANELBOARDS
E3706.1 Panelboard rating. All panelboards shall have a
rating not less than that of the minimum service or feeder
capacity required for the calculated load.
E3706.2 Panelboard circuit identification. All circuits and
circuit modifications shall be legibly identified as to their
clear, evident, and specific purpose or use. The identification
shall include sufficient detail to allow each circuit to be dis-
tinguished from all others. Spare positions that contain
unused overcurrent devices or switches shall be described
accordingly. The identification shall be included in a circuit
directory located on the face of the panelboard enclosure or
inside the panel door. Circuits shall not be described in a
manner that depends on transient conditions of occupancy.
E3706.3 Panelboard overcurrent protection. In addition to
the requirement of Section E3706.1, a panelboard shall be
protected by an overcurrent protective device having a rating
not greater than that of the panelboard. Such overcurrent pro-
tective device shall be located within or at any point on the
supply side of the panelboard.
E3706.4 Grounded conductor terminations. Each
grounded conductor shall terminate within the panelboard on
an individual terminal that is not also used for another con-
ductor, except that grounded conductors of circuits with par-
allel conductors shall be permitted to terminate on a single
terminal where the terminal is identified for connection of
more than one conductor.
E3706.5 Back-fed devices. Plug-in-type overcurrent protec-
tion devices or plug-in-type main lug assemblies that are
back-fed and used to terminate field-installed ungrounded
supply conductors shall be secured in place by an additional
fastener that requires other than a pull to release the device
from the mounting means on the panel.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
703
704 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 38
■if i iiS i tI %s bvic I rnj'U's
SECTION E3801
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
E3801.1 Scope. This chapter covers the wiring methods for
services, feeders and branch circuits for electrical power and
distribution.
E3801.2 Allowable wiring methods. The allowable wiring
methods for electrical installations shall be those listed in
Table E3801.2. Single conductors shall be used only where
part of one of the recognized wiring methods listed in Table
E3801.2. As used in this code, abbreviations of the wiring-
method types shall be as indicated in Table E3801.2.
TABLEE3801.2
ALLOWABLE WIRING METHODS
ALLOWABLE WIRING METHOD
DESIGNATED
ABBREVIATION
Armored cable
AC
Electrical metallic tubing
EMT
Electrical nonmetallic tubing
ENT
Flexible metal conduit
FMC
Intermediate metal conduit
IMC
Liquidtight flexible conduit
LFC
Metal-clad cable
MC
Nonmetallic sheathed cable
NM
Rigid polyvinyl chloride conduit (Type PVC)
RNC
Rigid metallic conduit
RMC
Service entrance cable
SE
Surface raceways
SR
Underground feeder cable
UF
Underground service cable
USE
E3801.3 Circuit conductors. All conductors of a circuit,
including equipment grounding conductors and bonding con-
ductors, shall be contained in the same raceway, trench, cable
or cord.
E3801.4 Wiring method applications. Wiring methods shall
be applied in accordance with Table E3801.4.
SECTION E3802
ABOVE-GROUND INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
E3802.1 Installation and support requirements. Wiring
methods shall be installed and supported in accordance with
Table E3 802. 1.
E3802.2 Cables in accessible attics. Cables in attics or roof
spaces provided with access shall be installed as specified in
Sections E3802.2.1 and E3802.2.2.
E3802.2.1 Across structural members. Where run across
the top of floor joists, or run within 7 feet (2134 mm) of
floor or floor joists across the face of rafters or studding, in
attics and roof spaces that are provided with access, the
cable shall be protected by substantial guard strips that are
at least as high as the cable. Where such spaces are not
provided with access by permanent stairs or ladders, pro-
tection shall only be required within 6 feet (1829 mm) of
the nearest edge of the attic entrance.
E3802.2.2 Cable installed through or parallel to fram-
ing members. Where cables are installed through or paral-
lel to the sides of rafters, studs or floor joists, guard strips
and running boards shall not be required, and the installa-
tion shall comply with Table E3802. 1 .
E3802.3 Exposed cable. In exposed work, except as pro-
vided for in Sections E3802.2 and E3802.4, cable assemblies
shall be installed as specified in Sections E3802.3.1 and
E3802.3.2.
E3802.3.1 Surface installation. Cables shall closely fol-
low the surface of the building finish or running boards.
E3802.3.2 Protection from physical damage. Where
subject to physical damage, cables shall be protected by
rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal conduit, electrical
metallic tubing, Schedule 80 PVC rigid nonmetallic con-
duit, or other approved means. Where passing through a
floor, the cable shall be enclosed in rigid metal conduit,
intermediate metal conduit, electrical metallic tubing,
Schedule 80 PVC rigid nonmetallic conduit or other
approved means extending not less than 6 inches (152
mm) above the floor.
E3802.3.3 Locations exposed to direct sunlight. Insu-
lated conductors and cables used where exposed to direct
rays of the sun shall be listed or listed and marked, as
being "sunlight resistant," or shall be covered with insulat-
ing material, such as tape or sleeving, that is listed or listed
and marked as being "sunlight resistant."
E3802.4 In unfinished basements and crawl spaces. Where
type NM or SE cable is run at angles with joists in unfinished
basements and crawl spaces, cable assemblies containing two
or more conductors of sizes 6 AWG and larger and assem-
blies containing three or more conductors of sizes 8 AWG
and larger shall not require additional protection where
attached directly to the bottom of the joists. Smaller cables
shall be run either through bored holes in joists or on running
boards. Type NM or SE cable installed on the wall of an
unfinished basement shall be permitted to be installed in a
listed conduit or tubing or shall be protected in accordance
with Table E3802. 1 . Conduit or tubing shall be provided with
a suitable insulating bushing or adapter at the point where the
cable enters the raceway. The sheath of the Type NM or SE
cable shall extend through the conduit or tubing and into the
outlet or device box not less than V 4 inch (6.4 mm). The cable
shall be secured within 12 inches (305 mm) of the point
where the cable enters the conduit or tubing. Metal conduit,
tubing, and metal outlet boxes shall be connected to an equip-
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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WIRING METHODS
ment grounding conductor complying with Section
E3908.13.
E3802.5 Bends. Bends shall be made so as not to damage the
wiring method or reduce the internal diameter of raceways.
For types NM and SE cable, bends shall be so made, and
other handling shall be such that the cable will not be dam-
aged and the radius of the curve of the inner edge of any bend
shall be not less than five times the diameter of the cable.
£3802.6 Raceways exposed to different temperatures.
Where portions of a raceway or sleeve are known to be sub-
jected to different temperatures and where condensation is
known to be a problem, as in cold storage areas of buildings
or where passing from the interior to the exterior of a build-
ing, the raceway or sleeve shall be filled with an approved
material to prevent the circulation of warm air to a colder sec-
tion of the raceway or sleeve.
E3802.7 Raceways in wet locations above grade. Where
raceways are installed in wet locations above grade, the inte-
rior of such raceways shall be considered to be a wet location.
Insulated conductors and cables installed in raceways in wet
locations above grade shall be listed for use in wet locations.
SECTION E3803
UNDERGROUND INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
E3803.1 Minimum cover requirements. Direct buried cable
or raceways shall be installed in accordance with the mini-
mum cover requirements of Table E3803. 1 .
E3803.2 Warning ribbon. Underground service conductors
that are not encased in concrete and that are buried 1 8 inches
(457 mm) or more below grade shall have their location iden-
tified by a warning ribbon that is placed in the trench not less
than 12 inches (305 mm) above the underground installation.
TABLE E3801 4
ALLOWABLE APPLICATIONS FOR WIRING METHODS 3 bc
i, e, t, g, h, I
:,k
ALLOWABLE APPLICATIONS
(application allowed where marked with an "A")
AC
EMT
ENT
FMC
IMC
RMC
RNC
LFC' 9
MC
NM
SR
SE
UF
USE
Services
—
A
A h
A'
A
A'
A
—
—
A
—
A
Feeders
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
—
A b
A
A b
Branch circuits
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A c
A
—
Inside a building
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
—
Wet locations exposed to sunlight
—
A
A h
—
A
A
A
—
—
A
A e
A c
Damp locations
—
A
A
A"
A
A
A
—
—
A
A
A
Embedded in noncinder concrete in dry location
—
A
A
—
A
A
In noncinder concrete in contact with grade
—
A f
A
—
A f
A
—
—
—
—
—
—
Embedded in plaster not exposed to dampness
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
—
—
A
A
—
Embedded in masonry
—
A
A
—
A f
A
A
In masonry voids and cells exposed to dampness
or below grade line
—
A f
A
A d
A f
A
A
—
—
A
A
—
Fished in masonry voids
A
—
—
A
—
A
A
A
—
A
A
—
In masonry voids and cells not exposed to
dampness
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
—
A
A
—
Run exposed
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
—
Run exposed and subject to physical damage
—
—
—
—
A E
—
—
—
—
—
—
—
For direct burial
—
A f
—
—
A'
A
A f
—
—
—
A
A
For SI: I foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Liquid-tight flexible nonmetallic conduit without integral reinforcement within the conduit wall shall not exceed 6 feet in length.
b. Type USE cable shall not be used inside buildings.
c. The grounded conductor shall be insulated.
d. Conductors shall be a type approved for wet locations and the installation shall prevent water from entering other raceways.
e. Shall be listed as "Sunlight Resistant."
f. Metal raceways shall be protected from corrosion and approved for the application. Aluminum RMC requires approved supplementary corrosion protection.
g. RNC shall be Schedule 80.
h. Shall be listed as "Sunlight Resistant" where exposed to the direct rays of the sun.
i. Conduit shall not exceed 6 feet in length.
j. Liquid-tight flexible nonmetallic conduit is permitted to be encased in concrete where listed for direct burial and only straight connectors listed for use with
LFNC are used,
k. In wet locations under any of the following conditions:
1 . The metallic covering is impervious to moisture.
2. A lead sheath or moisture-impervious jacket is provided under the metal covering.
3. The insulated conductors under the metallic covering are listed for use in wet locations and a corrosion-resistant jacket is provided over the metallic
sheath.
706
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WIRING METHODS
TABLE E3802.1
GENERAL INSTALLATION AND SUPPORT REQUIREMENTS FOR WIRING METHODS 3 '
, c, d, e. f.
9, h, i. L k
INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
(Requirement applicable only to wiring methods marked "A" )
AC
MC
EMT
IMC
RMC
ENT
FMC
LFC
NM
UF
RNC
SE
SR°
USE
Where run parallel with the framing member or furring strip, the wiring shall
be not less than 1 V 4 inches from the edge of a furring strip or a framing mem-
ber such as a joist, rafter or stud or shall be physically protected.
A
—
A
A
A
—
A
—
—
Bored holes in framing members for wiring shall be located not less than 1 V 4
inches from the edge of the framing member or shall be protected with a min-
imum 0.0625-inch steel plate or sleeve, a listed steel plate or other physical
protection.
A k
—
A k
A k
A k
—
A k
—
—
Where installed in grooves, to be covered by wallboard, siding, paneling, car-
peting, or similar finish, wiring methods shall be protected by 0.0625-inch-
thick steel plate, sleeve, or equivalent, a listed steel plate or by not less than
1 '/ 4 -inch free space for the full length of the groove in which the cable or
raceway is installed.
A
—
A
A
A
—
A
A
A
Securely fastened bushings or grommets shall be provided to protect wiring
run through openings in metal framing members.
—
—
A
—
A
—
A
—
—
The maximum number of 90-degree bends shall not exceed four between
junction boxes.
—
A
A
A
—
A
—
—
—
Bushings shall be provided where entering a box, fitting or enclosure unless
the box or fitting is designed to afford equivalent protection.
A
A
A
A
—
A
—
A
—
Ends of raceways shall be reamed to remove rough edges.
—
A
A
A
—
A
—
A
—
Maximum allowable on center support spacing for the wiring method in feet.
4.5 b,c
10 1
3 b
4.5"
4.5 1
od, 1
2.5 e
—
2.5
Maximum support distance in inches from box or other terminations.
12 M
36
36
12 bE
12 lM
36
12
—
—
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm, 1 degree = 0.0175 rad.
a. Installed in accordance with listing requirements.
b. Supports not required in accessible ceiling spaces between light fixtures where lengths do not exceed 6 feet.
c. Six feet for MC cable.
d. Five feet for trade sizes greater than 1 inch.
e. Two and one-half feet where used for service or outdoor feeder and 4.5 feet where used for branch circuit or indoor feeder.
f. Twenty-four inches where flexibility is necessary.
g. Where flexibility after installation is necessary, lengths of flexible metal conduit and liquidtight flexible metal conduit measured from the last point where the
raceway is securely fastened shall not exceed: 36 inches for trade sizes '/, through l'/ 4 , 48 inches for trade sizes I '/, through 2 and 5 feet for trade sizes 2 1 /, and
larger.
h. Within 8 inches of boxes without cable clamps.
i. Flat cables shall not be stapled on edge.
j. Bushings and grommets shall remain in place and shall be listed for the purpose of cable protection.
k. See Sections R502.8 and R802.7 for additional limitations on the location of bored holes in horizontal framing members.
E3803.3 Protection from damage. Direct buried conductors
and cables emerging from the ground shall be protected by
enclosures or raceways extending from the minimum cover
distance below grade required by Section E3803.1 to a point
at least 8 feet (2438 mm) above finished grade. In no case
shall the protection be required to exceed 18 inches (457 mm)
below finished grade. Conductors entering a building shall be
protected to the point of entrance. Where the enclosure or
raceway is subject to physical damage, the conductors shall
be installed in rigid metal conduit, intermediate metal con-
duit, Schedule 80 rigid nonmetallic conduit or the equivalent.
E3803.4 Splices and taps. Direct buried conductors or cables
shall be permitted to be spliced or tapped without the use of
splice boxes. The splices or taps shall be made by approved
methods with materials listed for the application.
E3803.5 Backfill. Backfill containing large rock, paving
materials, cinders, large or sharply angular substances, or cor-
rosive material shall not be placed in an excavation where
such materials cause damage to raceways, cables or other
substructures or prevent adequate compaction of fill or con-
tribute to corrosion of raceways, cables or other substruc-
tures. Where necessary to prevent physical damage to the
raceway or cable, protection shall be provided in the form of
granular or selected material, suitable boards, suitable sleeves
or other approved means.
E3803.6 Raceway seals. Conduits or raceways shall be
sealed or plugged at either or both ends where moisture will
enter and contact live parts.
E3803.7 Bushing. A bushing, or terminal fitting, with an
integral bushed opening shall be installed on the end of a con-
duit or other raceway that terminates underground where the
conductors or cables emerge as a direct burial wiring method.
A seal incorporating the physical protection characteristics of
a bushing shall be considered equivalent to a bushing.
E3803.8 Single conductors. All conductors of the same cir-
cuit and, where present, the grounded conductor and all
equipment grounding conductors shall be installed in the
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 18
707
WIRING METHODS
same raceway or shall be installed in close proximity in the
same trench.
Exception: Conductors shall be permitted to be installed
in parallel in raceways, multiconductor cables, and direct-
buried single conductor cables. Each raceway or multicon-
ductor cable shall contain all conductors of the same cir-
cuit, including equipment grounding conductors. Each
direct-buried single conductor cable shall be located in
close proximity in the trench to the other single conductor
cables in the same parallel set of conductors in the circuit,
including equipment grounding conductors.
E3803.9 Ground movement. Where direct buried conduc-
tors, raceways or cables are subject to movement by settle-
ment or frost, direct buried conductors, raceways or cables
shall be arranged to prevent damage to the enclosed conduc-
tors or to equipment connected to the raceways.
E3803.10 Wet locations. The interior of enclosures or race-
ways installed underground shall be considered to be a wet
location. Insulated conductors and cables installed in such
enclosures or raceways in underground installations shall be
listed for use in wet locations. Connections or splices in an
underground installation shall be approved for wet locations.
E3803.ll Under buildings. Underground cable installed
under a building shall be in a raceway.
Exception: Type MC Cable shall be permitted under a
building without installation in a raceway where the cable
TABLE E3803.1
MINIMUM COVER REQUIREMENTS, BURIAL IN INCHES 3 bcdi
LOCATION OF WIRING
METHOD OR CIRCUIT
TYPE OF WIRING METHOD OR CIRCUIT
1
Direct burial cables or
conductors
2
Rigid metal
conduit or
intermediate metal
conduit
3
Nonmetallic raceways
listed for direct burial
without concrete
encasement or other
approved raceways
4
Residential branch
circuits rated 120 volts or
less with GFCI protection
and maximum
overcurrent protection of
20 amperes
5
Circuits for control of
irrigation and landscape
lighting limited to not
more than 30 volts and
installed with type UF or
in other identified cable
or raceway
All locations not specified
below
24
6
18
12
6
In trench below 2-inch-
thick concrete or equivalent
18
6
12
6
6
Under a building
(In raceway only or
Type MC identified
for direct burial)
(In raceway only or
Type MC identified for
direct burial)
(In raceway only or
Type MC identified
for direct burial)
Under minimum of 4-inch-
thick concrete exterior slab
with no vehicular traffic
and the slab extending not
less than 6 inches beyond
the underground installa-
tion
18
4
4
6 (Direct burial)
4 (In raceway)
6 (Direct burial)
4 (In raceway)
Under streets, highways,
roads, alleys, driveways
and parking lots
24
24
24
24
24
One- and two-family dwell-
ing driveways and outdoor
parking areas, and used
only for dwelling-related
purposes
18
18
18
12
18
In solid rock where covered
by minimum of 2 inches
concrete extending down to
rock
2 (In raceway only)
2
2
2 (In raceway only)
2 (In raceway only)
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Raceways approved for burial only where encased concrete shall require concrete envelope not less than 2 inches thick.
b. Lesser depths shall be permitted where cables and conductors rise for terminations or splices or where access is otherwise required.
c. Where one of the wiring method types listed in columns 1 to 3 is combined with one of the circuit types in columns 4 and 5, the shallower depth of burial shall
be permitted.
d. Where solid rock prevents compliance with the cover depths specified in this table, the wiring shall be installed in metal or nonmetallic raceway permitted for
direct burial. The raceways shall be covered by a minimum of 2 inches of concrete extending down to the rock.
e. Cover is defined as the shortest distance in inches (millimeters) measured between a point on the top surface of any direct-buried conductor, cable, conduit or
other raceway and the top surface of finished grade, concrete, or similar cover.
708
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
WIRING METHODS
is listed and identified for direct burial or concrete encase-
ment and one or more of the following applies:
1. The metallic covering is impervious to moisture.
2. A moisture-impervious jacket is provided under the
metal covering.
3. The insulated conductors under the metallic cover-
ing are listed for use in wet locations, and a corro-
sion-resistant jacket is provided over the metallic
sheath.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE® 709
710 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
CHAPTER 39
POWER AND L1GHTSWG DISTRIBUTION
SECTION E3901
RECEPTACLE OUTLETS
E3901.1 General. Outlets for receptacles rated at 125 volts,
15- and 20-amperes shall be provided in accordance with
Sections E3901.2 through E3901.ll. Receptacle outlets
required by this section shall be in addition to any receptacle
that is:
1. Part of a luminaire or appliance;
2. Located within cabinets or cupboards;
3. Controlled by a wall switch in accordance with Section
E3903.2, Exception 1; or
4. Located over 5.5 feet (1676 mm) above the floor.
Permanently installed electric baseboard heaters equipped
with factory-installed receptacle outlets, or outlets provided
as a separate assembly by the baseboard manufacturer shall
be permitted as the required outlet or outlets for the wall
space utilized by such permanently installed heaters. Such
receptacle outlets shall not be connected to the heater circuits.
E3901.2 General purpose receptacle distribution. In every
kitchen, family room, dining room, living room, parlor,
library, den, sun room, bedroom, recreation room, or similar
room or area of dwelling units, receptacle outlets shall be
installed in accordance with the general provisions specified
in Sections E3901.2.1 through E3901.2.3 (see Figure
E3901.2).
E3901.2.1 Spacing. Receptacles shall be installed so that
no point measured horizontally along the floor line of any
wall space is more than 6 feet (1829 mm), from a recepta-
cle outlet.
E3901.2.2 Wall space. As used in this section, a wall
space shall include the following:
1. Any space that is 2 feet (610 mm) or more in width,
including space measured around corners, and that is
unbroken along the floor line by doorways and simi-
lar openings, fireplaces, and fixed cabinets.
2. The space occupied by fixed panels in exterior
walls, excluding sliding panels.
3. The space created by fixed room dividers such as
railings and freestanding bar-type counters.
E3901.2.3 Floor receptacles. Receptacle outlets in floors
shall not be counted as part of the required number of
receptacle outlets except where located within 18 inches
(457 mm) of the wall.
E3901.2.4 Countertop receptacles. Receptacles installed
for countertop surfaces as specified in Section E3901.4
shall not be considered as the receptacles required by Sec-
tion E3901. 2.
E3901.3 Small appliance receptacles. In the kitchen, pantry,
breakfast room, dining room, or similar area of a dwelling
unit, the two or more 20-ampere small-appliance branch cir-
cuits required by Section E3703.2, shall serve all wall and
floor receptacle outlets covered by Sections E3901.2 and
E3901.4 and those receptacle outlets provided for refrigera-
tion appliances.
Exceptions:
1. In addition to the required receptacles specified by
Sections E3901.1 and E3901.2, switched receptacles
supplied from a general-purpose branch circuit as
defined in Section E3903.2, Exception 1 shall be
permitted.
2. The receptacle outlet for refrigeration appliances
shall be permitted to be supplied from an individual
branch circuit rated at 15 amperes or greater.
E390 1.3.1 Other outlets prohibited. The two or more
small-appliance branch circuits specified in Section
E3901.3 shall serve no other outlets.
Exceptions:
1. A receptacle installed solely for the electrical
supply to and support of an electric clock in any
of the rooms specified in Section E3901.3.
h^H
6'
12'
FIXED PANEL
FLOOR RECEPTACLE
12'
m BUS
6'
-12-
-6'-
ForSI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE E3901. 2
GENERAL USE RECEPTACLE DISTRIBUTION
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
711
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
2. Receptacles installed to provide power for sup-
plemental equipment and lighting on gas-fired
ranges, ovens, and counter-mounted cooking
units.
E3901.3.2 Limitations. Receptacles installed in a kitchen
to serve countertop surfaces shall be supplied by not less
than two small-appliance branch circuits, either or both of
which shall also be permitted to supply receptacle outlets
in the same kitchen and in other rooms specified in Sec-
tion E3901.3. Additional small-appliance branch circuits
shall be permitted to supply receptacle outlets in the
kitchen and other rooms specified in Section E3901.3. A
small-appliance branch circuit shall not serve more than
one kitchen.
E3901.4 Countertop receptacles. In kitchens pantries,
breakfast rooms, dining rooms and similar areas of dwelling
units, receptacle outlets for countertop spaces shall be
installed in accordance with Sections E3901.4.1 through
E3901.4.5 (see Figure E3901.4).
E3901.4.1 Wall countertop space. A receptacle outlet
shall be installed at each wall countertop space 12 inches
(305 mm) or wider. Receptacle outlets shall be installed so
that no point along the wall line is more than 24 inches
(610 mm), measured horizontally from a receptacle outlet
in that space.
Exception: Receptacle outlets shall not be required on
a wall directly behind a range, counter-mounted cook-
ing unit or sink in the installation described in Figure
E3901.4.1.
E3901.4.2 Island countertop spaces. At least one recep-
tacle outlet shall be installed at each island countertop
space with a long dimension of 24 inches (610 mm) or
greater and a short dimension of 12 inches (305 mm) or
greater.
E3901.4.3 Peninsular countertop space. At least one
receptacle outlet shall be installed at each peninsular coun-
tertop space with a long dimension of 24 inches (610 mm)
or greater and a short dimension of 12 inches (305 mm) or
greater. A peninsular countertop is measured from the
connecting edge.
E390 1.4.4 Separate spaces. Countertop spaces separated
by range tops, refrigerators, or sinks shall be considered as
separate countertop spaces in applying the requirements of
Sections E3901.4.1, E3901.4.2 and E3901.4.3. Where a
range, counter-mounted cooking unit, or sink is installed
in an island or peninsular countertop and the depth of the
countertop behind the range, counter-mounted cooking
unit, or sink is less than 12 inches (305 mm), the range,
counter-mounted cooking unit, or sink has divided the
countertop space into two separate countertop spaces as
defined in Section E3901.4.4. Each separate countertop
space shall comply with the applicable requirements of
this section.
„_ Outlet within
24 in.
Outlet not required
if X< 12 in.
Outlet within _^
24 in.
t
I
X
I
f
Sink, range or counter-mounted cooking unit extending from face of counter
Outlets not required < wjthin 24 .
if X< 18 in.
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE E3901. 4
COUNTERTOP RECEPTACLES
Sink, range or counter-mounted cooking unit mounted in corner
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE E3901. 4.1
DETERMINATION OF AREA BEHIND SINK OR RANGE
712
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
E3901.4.5 Receptacle outlet location. Receptacle outlets
shall be located not more than 20 inches (508 mm) above
the countertop. Receptacle outlet assemblies installed in
countertops shall be listed for the application. Receptacle
outlets shall not be installed in a face-up position in the
work surfaces or countertops. Receptacle outlets rendered
not readily accessible by appliances fastened in place,
appliance garages, sinks or rangetops as addressed in the
exception to Section E3901.4.1, or appliances occupying
dedicated space shall not be considered as these required
outlets.
Exception: Receptacle outlets shall be permitted to be
mounted not more than 12 inches (305 mm) below the
countertop in construction designed for the physically
impaired and for island and peninsular countertops
where the countertop is flat across its entire surface and
there are no means to mount a receptacle within 20
inches (508 mm) above the countertop, such as in an
overhead cabinet. Receptacles mounted below the
countertop in accordance with this exception shall not
be located where the countertop extends more than 6
inches (152 mm) beyond its support base.
E3901.5 Appliance receptacle outlets. Appliance receptacle
outlets installed for specific appliances, such as laundry
equipment, shall be installed within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the
intended location of the appliance.
E3901.6 Bathroom. At least one wall receptacle outlet shall
be installed in bathrooms and such outlet shall be located
within 36 inches (914 mm) of the outside edge of each lava-
tory basin. The receptacle outlet shall be located on a wall or
partition that is adjacent to the lavatory basin location,
located on the countertop, or installed on the side or face of
the basin cabinet not more than 12 inches (305 mm) below
the countertop.
Receptacle outlets shall not be installed in a face-up posi-
tion in the work surfaces or countertops in a bathroom basin
location. Receptacle outlet assemblies installed in counter-
tops shall be listed for the application.
E3901.7 Outdoor outlets. At least one receptacle outlet that
is accessible while standing at grade level and located not
more than 6 feet, 6 inches (1981 mm) above grade, shall be
installed outdoors at the front and back of each dwelling unit
having direct access to grade. Balconies, decks, and porches
that are accessible from inside of the dwelling unit shall have
at least one receptacle outlet installed within the perimeter of
the balcony, deck, or porch. The receptacle shall be located
not more than 6 feet, 6 inches (1981 mm) above the balcony,
deck, or porch surface.
E3901.8 Laundry areas. At least one receptacle outlet shall
be installed to serve laundry appliances.
E3901.9 Basements, garages and accessory buildings. At
least one receptacle outlet, in addition to any provided for
specific equipment, shall be installed in each basement and in
each attached garage, and in each detached garage or acces-
sory building that is provided with electrical power. Where a
portion of the basement is finished into one or more habitable
room(s), each separate unfinished portion shall have a recep-
tacle outlet installed in accordance with this section.
E3901.10 Hallways. Hallways of 10 feet (3048 mm) or more
in length shall have at least one receptacle outlet. The hall
length shall be considered the length measured along the cen-
terline of the hall without passing through a doorway.
E3901.ll Foyers. Foyers that are not part of a hallway in
accordance with Section E3901.10 and that have an area that
is greater than 60 ft 2 (5.57 m 2 ) shall have a receptacle(s)
located in each wall space that is 3 feet (914 mm) or more in
width and unbroken by doorways, floor-to-ceiling windows,
and similar openings.
E3901.12 HVAC outlet. A 125-volt, single-phase, 15- or 20-
ampere-rated receptacle outlet shall be installed at an accessi-
ble location for the servicing of heating, air-conditioning and
refrigeration equipment. The receptacle shall be located on
the same level and within 25 feet (7620 mm) of the heating,
air-conditioning and refrigeration equipment. The receptacle
outlet shall not be connected to the load side of the HVAC
equipment disconnecting means.
Exception: A receptacle outlet shall not be required for
the servicing of evaporative coolers.
SECTION E3902
GROUND-FAULT AND ARC-FAULT CIRCUIT-
INTERRUPTER PROTECTION
E3902.1 Bathroom receptacles. All 125-volt, single-phase,
15- and 20-ampere receptacles installed in bathrooms shall
have ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel.
E3902.2 Garage and accessory building receptacles. All
125-volt, single-phase, 15- or 20-ampere receptacles installed
in garages and grade-level portions of unfinished accessory
buildings used for storage or work areas shall have ground-
fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel.
E3902.3 Outdoor receptacles. All 125-volt, single-phase,
15- and 20-ampere receptacles installed outdoors shall have
ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel.
Exception: Receptacles as covered in Section E4101.7.
E3902.4 Crawl space receptacles. Where a crawl space is at
or below grade level, all 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-
ampere receptacles installed in such spaces shall have
ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel.
E3902.5 Unfinished basement receptacles. All 125-volt,
single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles installed in
unfinished basements shall have ground-fault circuit-inter-
rupter protection for personnel. For purposes of this section,
unfinished basements are defined as portions or areas of the
basement not intended as habitable rooms and limited to stor-
age areas, work areas, and the like.
Exception: A receptacle supplying only a permanently
installed fire alarm or burglar alarm system.
E3902.6 Kitchen receptacles. All 125-volt, single-phase,
15- and 20-ampere receptacles that serve countertop surfaces
shall have ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for per-
sonnel.
E3902.7 Sink receptacles. All 125-volt, single-phase, 15-
and 20-ampere receptacles that are located within 6 feet
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
713
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
1(1829 mm) of the outside edge of a sink that is located in an
area other than a kitchen, shall have ground-fault circuit-
interrupter protection for personnel. Receptacle outlets shall
not be installed in a face-up position in the work surfaces or
countertops.
E3902.8 Boathouse receptacles. All 125-volt, single-phase,
15- or 20-ampere receptacles installed in boathouses shall
have ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection for personnel.
E3902.9 Boat hoists. Ground-fault circuit-interrupter protec-
tion for personnel shall be provided for 240- volt and less out-
lets that supply boat hoists.
E3902.10 Electrically heated floors. Ground-fault circuit-
interrupter protection for personnel shall be provided for
| electrically heated floors in bathrooms, kitchens and in
hydromassage bathtub, spa and hot tub locations.
I E3902.ll Location of ground-fault circuit interrupters.
Ground-fault circuit interrupters shall be installed in a readily
accessible location.
E3902.12 Arc-fault circuit-interrupter protection. All
branch circuits that supply 120- volt, single-phase, 15- and
20-ampere outlets installed in family rooms, dining rooms,
living rooms, parlors, libraries, dens, bedrooms, sunrooms,
recreations rooms, closets, hallways and similar rooms or
areas shall be protected by a combination type arc-fault cir-
cuit interrupter installed to provide protection of the branch
circuit.
Exception:
1. Where an outlet branch-circuit type AFCI is
installed at the first outlet to provide protection for
the remaining portion of the branch circuit, the por-
tion of the branch circuit between the branch-circuit
overcurrent device and the first outlet shall be
installed with metal outlet and junction boxes and
RMC, IMC, EMT, type MC, or steel armored
type AC cables meeting the requirements of Sec-
tion E 3908.8.
| 2. Where an outlet branch-circuit type AFCI is
installed at the first outlet to provide protection for
the remaining portion of the branch circuit, the por-
tion of the branch circuit between the branch -circuit
overcurrent device and the first outlet shall be
installed with metal or nonmetallic conduit or tubing
that is encased in not less than 2 inches (51 mm) of
concrete.
| 3. AFCI protection is not required for an individual
branch circuit supplying only a fire alarm system
where the branch circuit is wired with metal outlet
and junction boxes and RMC, IMC, EMT or steel-
| sheathed armored cable Type AC, or Type MC
meeting the requirements of Section E3908.8.
IE3902.13 Arc-fault circuit interrupter protection for
branch circuit extensions or modifications. Where branch-
circuit wiring is modified, replaced, or extended in any of the
areas specified in Section E3902.12, the branch circuit shall
be protected by one of the following:
1 . A combination-type AFCI located at the origin of the
branch circuit
2. An outlet branch-circuit type AFCI located at the first
receptacle outlet of the existing branch circuit.
SECTION E3903
LIGHTING OUTLETS
E3903.1 General. Lighting outlets shall be provided in
accordance with Sections E3903.2 through E3903.4.
E3903.2 Habitable rooms. At least one wall switch-con-
trolled lighting outlet shall be installed in every habitable
room and bathroom.
Exceptions:
1. In other than kitchens and bathrooms, one or more
receptacles controlled by a wall switch shall be con-
sidered equivalent to the required lighting outlet.
2. Lighting outlets shall be permitted to be controlled
by occupancy sensors that are in addition to wall
switches, or that are located at a customary wall
switch location and equipped with a manual over-
ride that will allow the sensor to function as a wall
switch.
E3903.3 Additional locations. At least one wall-switch-con-
trolled lighting outlet shall be installed in hallways, stair-
ways, attached garages, and detached garages with electric
power. At least one wall-switch-controlled lighting outlet
shall be installed to provide illumination on the exterior side
of each outdoor egress door having grade level access,
including outdoor egress doors for attached garages and
detached garages with electric power. A vehicle door in a
garage shall not be considered as an outdoor egress door.
Where one or more lighting outlets are installed for interior
stairways, there shall be a wall switch at each floor level and
landing level that includes an entry way to control the lighting
outlets where the stairway between floor levels has six or
more risers.
Exception: In hallways, stairways, and at outdoor egress
doors, remote, central, or automatic control of lighting
shall be permitted.
E3903.4 Storage or equipment spaces. In attics, under-floor
spaces, utility rooms and basements, at least one lighting out-
let shall be installed where these spaces are used for storage
or contain equipment requiring servicing. Such lighting outlet
shall be controlled by a wall switch or shall have an integral
switch. At least one point of control shall be at the usual point
of entry to these spaces. The lighting outlet shall be provided
at or near the equipment requiring servicing.
714
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
SECTION E3904
GENERAL INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
E3904.1 Electrical continuity of metal raceways and
enclosures. Metal raceways, cable armor and other metal
enclosures for conductors shall be mechanically joined
together into a continuous electric conductor and shall be
connected to all boxes, fittings and cabinets so as to provide
effective electrical continuity. Raceways and cable assem-
blies shall be mechanically secured to boxes, fittings cabinets
and other enclosures.
Exception: Short sections of raceway used to provide
cable assemblies with support or protection against physi-
cal damage.
E3904.2 Mechanical continuity — raceways and cables.
Metal or nonmetallic raceways, cable armors and cable
sheaths shall be continuous between cabinets, boxes, fittings
or other enclosures or outlets.
Exception: Short sections of raceway used to provide
cable assemblies with support or protection against physi-
cal damage.
E3904.3 Securing and supporting. Raceways, cable assem-
blies, boxes, cabinets and fittings shall be securely fastened in
place.
E3904.3.1 Prohibited means of support. Cable wiring
methods shall not be used as a means of support for other
cables, raceways and nonelectrical equipment.
E3904.4 Raceways as means of support. Raceways shall be
used as a means of support for other raceways, cables or non-
electric equipment only under the following conditions:
1. Where the raceway or means of support is identified for
the purpose; or
2. Where the raceway contains power supply conductors
for electrically controlled equipment and is used to sup-
port Class 2 circuit conductors or cables that are solely
for the purpose of connection to the control circuits of
the equipment served by such raceway; or
3. Where the raceway is used to support boxes or conduit
bodies in accordance with Sections E3906.8.4 and
E3906.8.5.
E3904.5 Raceway installations. Raceways shall be installed
complete between outlet, junction or splicing points prior to
the installation of conductors.
Exception: Short sections of raceways used to contain
conductors or cable assemblies for protection from physi-
cal damage shall not be required to be installed complete
between outlet, junction, or splicing points.
E3904.6 Conduit and tubing fill. The maximum number of
conductors installed in conduit or tubing shall be in accor-
dance with Tables E3904.6(l) through E3904.6(10).
E3904.7 Air handling-stud cavity and joist spaces. Where
wiring methods having a nonmetallic covering pass through
stud cavities and joist spaces used for air handling, such wir-
ing shall pass through such spaces perpendicular to the long
dimension of the spaces.
SECTION E3905
BOXES, CONDUIT BODIES AND FITTINGS
E3905.1 Box, conduit body or fitting — where required. A
box or conduit body shall be installed at each conductor
splice point, outlet, switch point, junction point and pull point
except as otherwise permitted in Sections E3905.1.1 through
E3905.1.6.
Fittings and connectors shall be used only with the spe-
cific wiring methods for which they are designed and listed.
E3905.1.1 Equipment. An integral junction box or wiring
compartment that is part of listed equipment shall be per-
mitted to serve as a box or conduit body.
E3905.1.2 Protection. A box or conduit body shall not be
required where cables enter or exit from conduit or tubing
that is used to provide cable support or protection against
physical damage. A fitting shall be provided on the end(s)
of the conduit or tubing to protect the cable from abrasion.
E3905.1.3 Integral enclosure. A wiring device with inte-
gral enclosure identified for the use, having brackets that
securely fasten the device to walls or ceilings of conven-
tional on-site frame construction, for use with nonmetal-
lic-sheathed cable, shall be permitted in lieu of a box or
conduit body.
E3905.1.4 Fitting. A fitting identified for the use shall be
permitted in lieu of a box or conduit body where such fit-
ting is accessible after installation and does not contain
spliced or terminated conductors.
E3905.1.5 Buried conductors. Splices and taps in buried
conductors and cables shall not be required to be enclosed
in a box or conduit body where installed in accordance
with Section E3803.4.
E3905.1.6 Luminaires. Where a luminaire is listed to be
used as a raceway, a box or conduit body shall not be
required for wiring installed therein.
E3905.2 Metal boxes. All metal boxes shall be grounded.
E3905.3 Nonmetallic boxes. Nonmetallic boxes shall be
used only with cabled wiring methods with entirely nonme-
tallic sheaths, flexible cords and nonmetallic raceways.
Exceptions:
1. Where internal bonding means are provided
between all entries, nonmetallic boxes shall be per-
mitted to be used with metal raceways and metal-
armored cables.
2. Where integral bonding means with a provision for
attaching an equipment grounding jumper inside the
box are provided between all threaded entries in
nonmetallic boxes listed for the purpose, nonmetal-
lic boxes shall be permitted to be used with metal
raceways and metal-armored cables.
E3905.3.1 Nonmetallic-sheathed cable and nonmetallic
boxes. Where nonmetallic-sheathed cable is used, the
cable assembly, including the sheath, shall extend into the
box not less than V 4 inch (6.4 mm) through a nonmetallic-
sheathed cable knockout opening.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
715
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
TABLE E3904.6(1)
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF CONDUCTORS IN ELECTRICAL METALLIC TUBING (EMT) a
TYPE LETTERS
CONDUCTOR SIZE
AWG/kcmil
TRADE SIZES
(inches)
X
3 /
1
1V,
1V,
2
14
4
7
11
20
27
46
12
3
6
9
17
23
38
10
2
5
8
13
18
30
8
2
4
7
9
16
6
1
3
5
8
13
4
1
2
4
6
10
RHW, RHW-2
3
1
1
4
5
9
2
1
1
3
4
7
1
1
1
1
3
5
1/0
1
1
1
2
4
2/0
1
1
1
2
4
3/0
1
1
1
3
4/0
1
1
1
3
14
8
15
25
43
58
96
TW
12
6
11
19
33
45
74
10
5
8
14
24
33
55
8
2
5
8
13
18
30
14
6
10
16
28
39
64
RHW", RHW-2", THHW,
12
4
8
13
23
31
51
THW, THW-2
10
6
10
18
24
40
8
4
6
10
14
24
6
3
4
8
11
18
4
1
3
6
8
13
3
1
3
5
7
12
RHW a , RHW-2 a , TW, THW,
2
1
1/0
1
1
1
2
1
1
4
3
2
6
4
3
10
7
6
THHW, THW-2
2/0
1
1
1
3
5
3/0
1
1
1
2
4
4/0
1
1
1
3
14
12
22
35
61
84
138
12
9
16
26
45
61
101
10
5
10
16
28
38
63
8
3
6
9
16
22
36
6
2
4
7
12
16
26
4
2
4
7
10
16
THHN, THWN, THWN-2
3
1
3
6
8
13
2
1
3
5
7
11
1
1
1
4
5
8
1/0
1
I
3
4
7
2/0
1
1
2
3
6
3/0
1
1
1
3
5
4/0
1
1
1
2
4
14
8
15
25
43
58
96
12
6
11
19
33
45
74
10
5
8
14
24
33
55
8
2
5
8
13
18
30
6
3
6
10
14
22
4
2
4
7
10
16
XHHW, XHHW-2
3
3
6
8
14
2
3
5
7
11
1
4
5
8
1/0
3
4
7
2/0
2
3
6
3/0
1
3
5
4/0
1
2
4
For SI: ] inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Types RHW, and RHW-2 without outer covering.
716
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 18
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
TABLE E3904.6(2)
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF CONDUCTORS IN ELECTRICAL NONMETALLIC TUBING (ENT) a
TYPE LETTERS
CONDUCTOR SIZE
AWG/kcmil
TRADE SIZES
(inches)
X
%
1
j Vl »
1V.
2
14
3
6
10
19
26
43
12
2
5
9
16
22
36
10
4
7
13
17
29
8
3
6
9
15
6
3
5
7
12
RHW, RHW-2
4
2
4
6
9
3
1
3
5
8
2
1
3
4
7
1
1
1
3
5
1/0
1
1
2
4
2/0
1
1
1
3
RHW, RHW-2
3/0
1
1
1
3
4/0
1
1
1
2
14
7
13
22
40
55
92
TW
12
5
10
17
31
42
71
10
4
7
13
23
32
52
8
1
4
7
13
17
29
14
4
8
15
27
37
61
RHW a , RHW-2 a , THHW,
12
3
7
12
21
29
49
THW, THW-2
10
3
5
9
17
23
38
8
3
5
10
14
23
6
2
4
7
10
17
4
1
3
5
8
13
3
1
2
5
7
11
RHW a , RHW-2", TW, THW,
2
i
1
2
4
6
9
THHW, THW-2
1
1
3
4
6
1/0
1
2
3
5
2/0
1
1
3
5
3/0
1
2
4
4/0
1
1
3
14
10
18
32
58
80
132
12
7
13
23
42
58
96
10
4
8
15
26
36
60
THHN, THWN, THWN-2
8
2
5
8
15
21
35
6
1
3
6
11
15
25
4
1
1
4
7
9
15
3
1
1
3
5
8
13
2
1
1
2
5
6
11
1
1
1
1
3
5
8
1/0
1
1
3
4
7
THHN, THWN, THWN-2
2/0
1
1
2
3
5
3/0
1
1
1
3
4
4/0
1
1
2
4
14
7
13
22
40
55
92
12
5
10
17
31
42
71
10
4
7
13
23
32
52
8
4
7
13
17
29
6
3
5
9
13
21
4
1
4
7
9
15
XHHW, XHHW-2
3
1
3
6
8
13
2
1
2
5
6
11
1
1
3
5
8
1/0
1
3
4
7
2/0
1
2
3
6
3/0
1
1
3
5
4/0
1
2
4
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 ram.
a. Types RHW, and RHW-2 without outer covering
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
717
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
TABLE E3904.6(3)
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF CONDUCTORS IN FLEXIBLE METALLIC CONDUIT (FMC) a
TRADE SIZES
TYPE LETTERS
CONDUCTOR SIZE
AWG/kcmil
(inches)
%
'4
1
IV,
1V,
2
14
4
7
11
17
25
44
12
3
6
9
14
21
37
10
3
5
7
11
17
30
RHW, RHW-2
8
6
1
1
2
1
4
3
6
5
9
7
15
12
4
1
1
2
4
5
10
3
1
1
1
3
5
7
2
1
1
1
3
4
7
1
1
1
1
2
5
RHW, RHW-2
1/0
1
1
1
2
4
2/0
1
1
1
1
3
3/0
1
1
1
3
14
9
15
23
36
53
94
12
7
11
18
28
41
72
TW
10
5
8
13
21
30
54
8
3
5
7
11
17
30
14
6
10
15
24
35
62
RHW a , RHW-2", THHW,
12
5
8
12
19
28
50
THW, THW-2
10
4
6
10
15
22
39
8
4
6
9
13
23
6
3
4
7
10
18
4
3
5
7
13
3
3
4
6
11
2
2
4
5
10
RHW", RHW-2", TW, THW,
1
2
4
7
6
THHW, THW-2
1/0
1
3
2/0
1
3
5
3/0
1
2
4
4/0
1
I
3
4/0
1
1
2
14
13
22
33
52
76
134
12
9
16
24
38
56
98
THHN, THWN, THWN-2
10
6
10
15
24
35
62
8
3
6
9
14
20
35
6
2
4
6
10
14
25
4
2
4
6
9
16
3
1
3
5
7
13
2
1
3
4
6
11
THHN, THWN, THWN-2
1
1
1
3
4
8
1/0
1
1
2
4
7
2/0
1
1
1
3
6
3/0
1
1
1
2
5
4/0
1
1
1
1
4
14
9
15
23
36
53
94
12
7
11
18
28
41
72
10
5
8
13
21
30
54
8
3
5
7
11
17
30
6
3
5
8
12
22
4
2
4
6
9
16
XHHW, XHHW-2
3
1
3
5
7
13
2
1
3
4
6
11
1
1
3
5
8
1/0
1
2
4
7
2/0
1
2
3
6
3/0
1
1
3
5
4/0
1
1
2
4
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 ram.
a. Types RHW, and RHW-2 without outer covering.
718
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
TABLE E3904.6(4)
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF CONDUCTORS IN INTERMEDIATE METALLIC CONDUIT (IMC) a
TYPE LETTERS
CONDUCTOR SIZE
AWG/kcmil
TRADE SIZES
(inches)
v,
3 h
1
IV,
1V,
2
14
4
8
13
22
30
49
12
4
6
11
18
25
41
10
3
5
8
15
20
33
8
3
4
8
10
17
6
1
3
6
8
14
4
1
3
5
6
11
RHW, RHW-2
3
1
2
4
6
9
2
1
1
3
5
8
1
1
1
2
3
5
1/0
1
1
1
3
4
2/0
1
1
1
2
4
3/0
1
1
1
3
4/0
1
1
1
3
14
10
17
27
47
64
104
12
7
13
21
36
49
80
TW
10
5
9
15
27
36
59
8
3
5
8
15
20
33
14
6
11
18
31
42
69
RHW a , RHW-2", THHW,
12
5
9
14
25
34
56
THW, THW-2
10
4
7
11
19
26
43
8
2
4
7
12
16
26
6
1
3
5
9
12
20
4
1
2
4
6
9
15
3
1
1
3
6
8
13
RHW, RHW-2", TW, THW,
2
I
1
1
1
1
3
I
5
3
6
4
11
7
THHW, THW-2
j
1/0
1
1
1
3
4
6
2/0
1
1
2
3
5
3/0
1
1
1
3
4
4/0
1
1
1
2
4
14
14
24
39
68
91
149
12
10
17
29
49
67
109
10
6
11
18
31
42
68
8
3
6
10
18
24
39
6
2
4
7
13
17
28
THHN, THWN, THWN-2
4
1
3
4
8
10
17
3
1
2
4
6
9
15
2
1
3
5
7
12
1
1
2
4
5
9
1/0
1
1
3
4
8
2/0
1
1
3
4
6
THHN, THWN, THWN-2
3/0
2/0
1
1
2
1
3
2
5
4
14
10
17
27
47
64
104
12
7
13
21
36
49
80
10
5
9
15
27
36
59
8
3
5
8
15
20
33
6
1
4
6
11
15
24
4
1
3
4
8
11
18
XHHW, XHHW-2
3
1
2
4
7
9
15
2
1
3
5
7
12
1
1
2
4
5
9
1/0
1
1
3
5
8
2/0
1
1
3
4
6
3/0
1
2
3
5
4/0
1
1
2
4
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Types RHW, and RHW-2 without outer covering.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
719
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
TABLE E3904.6(5)
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF CONDUCTORS IN LIQUID-TIGHT FLEXIBLE NONMETALLIC CONDUIT (FNMC-B) 3
TRADE SIZES
TYPE LETTERS
CONDUCTOR SIZE
AWG/kcmil
(inches)
v,
%
1
1V 4
1V 2
2
14
2
4
7
12
21
27
44
12
1
3
6
10
17
22
36
RHW, RHW-2
10
1
3
5
8
14
18
29
8
1
2
4
7
9
1
6
1
1
3
6
7
12
4
1
2
4
6
9
3
1
1
4
5
8
2
1
1
3
4
7
1
1
1
1
3
5
RHW, RHW-2
1/0
1
1
1
2
4
2/0
1
1
1
1
3
3/0
1
1
1
3
4/0
1
1
1
2
14
5
9
15
25
44
57
93
TW
12
4
7
12
19
33
43
71
10
3
5
9
14
25
32
53
8
1
3
5
8
14
18
29
14
3
6
10
16
29
38
62
RHW a , RGW-2 a , THHW,
12
3
5
8
13
23
30
50
THW, THW-2
10
3
6
10
18
23
39
8
1
4
6
11
14
23
6
3
5
8
11
18
4
1
3
6
8
13
3
1
3
5
7
11
RHW a , RHW-2 a , TW,
2
1
1
2
4
6
9
THW, THHW, THW-2
1
3
4
7
1/0
1
2
3
6
2/0
1
2
3
5
3/0
1
1
2
4
4/0
1
1
3
14
8
13
22
36
63
81
133
THHN, THWN, THWN-2
12
5
9
16
26
46
59
97
10
3
6
10
16
29
37
61
8
1
3
6
9
16
21
35
6
1
2
4
7
12
15
25
4
1
1
2
4
7
9
15
3
1
1
1
3
6
8
13
2
1
1
1
3
5
7
11
THHN, THWN, THWN-2
1
1
1
1
4
5
8
1/0
1
1
1
3
4
7
2/0
1
1
2
3
6
3/0
1
1
1
3
5
4/0
1
1
1
2
4
14
5
9
15
25
44
57
93
12
4
7
12
19
33
43
71
10
3
5
9
14
25
32
53
8
3
5
8
14
18
29
6
3
6
10
13
22
4
2
4
7
9
16
XHHW, XHHW-2
3
2
3
3
6
5
8
7
13
11
1
4
5
8
1/0
3
4
7
2/0
2
3
6
3/0
I
3
5
4/0
1
2
4
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Types RHW, and RHW-2 without outer covering.
720
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
TABLE E3904.6(6)
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF CONDUCTORS IN LIQUID-TIGHT FLEXIBLE NONMETALLIC CONDUIT (FNMC-A) 8
TYPE LETTERS
CONDUCTOR SIZE
AWG/kcmil
TRADE SIZES
(inches)
%
%
3 U
1
1V 4
1V,
2
14
2
4
1
11
20
27
45
12
1
3
6
9
17
23
38
10
1
3
5
8
13
18
30
8
1
2
4
7
9
16
6
1
1
3
5
7
13
4
1
2
4
6
10
RHW, RHW-2
3
1
1
4
5
8
2
1
1
3
4
7
1
1
1
1
3
5
1/0
1
1
1
2
4
2/0
1
1
1
1
4
3/0
1
1
1
3
4/0
1
1
1
3
14
5
9
15
24
43
58
96
TW
12
4
7
12
19
33
44
74
10
3
5
9
14
24
33
55
8
1
3
5
8
13
18
30
14
3
6
10
16
28
38
64
RHW a , RHW-2", THHW,
12
3
4
8
13
23
31
51
THW, THW-2
10
1
3
6
10
18
24
40
8
1
1
4
6
10
14
24
6
1
3
4
8
11
18
RHW", RHW-2", TW,
4
3
2
1
1
1
1
1
3
3
2
6
5
4
8
7
6
13
11
10
THW, THHW, THW-2
1
1
1
3
4
7
1/0
1
1
2
3
6
RHW", RHW-2", TW,
2/0
1
1
1
3
5
THW, THHW, THW-2
3/0
1
1
1
2
4
4/0
1
1
1
3
14
8
13
22
35
62
83
137
12
5
9
16
25
45
60
100
10
3
6
10
16
28
38
63
8
1
3
6
9
16
22
36
6
1
2
4
6
12
16
26
4
1
2
4
7
9
16
THHN, THWN, THWN-2
3
1
1
3
6
8
13
2
1
1
3
5
7
11
1
1
1
4
5
8
1/0
1
1
3
4
7
2/0
1
1
2
3
6
3/0
1
1
1
3
5
4/0
1
1
1
2
4
14
5
9
15
24
43
58
96
12
4
7
12
19
33
44
74
10
3
5
9
14
24
33
55
8
3
5
8
13
18
30
XHHW, XHHW-2
6
3
5
10
13
22
4
2
4
7
10
16
3
3
6
8
14
2
3
5
7
11
1
4
5
8
1/0
3
4
7
XHHW, XHHW-2
2/0
3/0
2
1
3
3
6
5
4/0
1
2
4
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Types RHW, and RHW-2 without outer covering.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
721
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
TABLE E3904.6(7)
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF CONDUCTORS IN LIQUID-TIGHT FLEXIBLE METAL CONDUIT (LFMC) a
TYPE LETTERS
CONDUCTOR SIZE
AWG/kcmil
TRADE SIZES
(inches)
%
'4
1
1V 4
IV,
2
RHW, RHW-2
14
12
10
8
6
4
3
2
1
1/0
2/0
3/0
4/0
4
3
3
1
1
1
1
1
7
6
5
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
12
10
8
4
3
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
21
17
14
7
6
4
4
3
1
1
1
1
1
27
22
18
9
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
1
44
36
29
15
12
9
8
7
5
4
3
3
2
TW
14
12
10
8
9
7
5
3
15
12
9
5
25
19
14
8
44
33
25
14
57
43
32
18
93
71
53
29
RHW a , RHW-2', THHW,
THW, THW-2
14
12
10
8
6
5
3
1
10
8
6
4
16
13
10
6
29
23
18
11
38
30
23
14
62
50
39
23
RHW a , RHW-2 !1 , TW,
THW, THHW, THW-2
6
4
3
2
1
1/0
2/0
3/0
4/0
1
1
1
1
1
3
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
5
3
3
2
1
1
1
1
1
8
6
5
4
3
2
2
1
1
11
8
7
6
4
3
3
2
1
18
13
11
9
7
6
5
4
3
THHN, THWN, THWN-2
14
12
10
8
6
4
3
2
1
1/0
2/0
3/0
4/0
13
9
6
3
2
1
1
1
1
1
22
16
10
6
4
2
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
36
26
16
9
7
4
3
3
1
1
1
1
1
63
46
29
16
12
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
81
59
37
21
15
9
8
7
5
4
3
3
2
133
97
61
35
25
15
13
11
8
7
6
5
4
XHHW, XHHW-2
14
12
10
8
9
7
5
3
15
12
9
5
25
19
14
8
44
33
25
14
57
43
32
18
93
71
53
29
XHHW, XHHW-2
6
4
3
2
1
1/0
2/0
3/0
4/0
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
2
6
4
3
3
I
1
1
1
1
10
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
13
9
8
7
5
4
3
3
2
22
16
13
11
8
7
6
5
4
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Types RHW, and RHW-2 without outer covering.
722
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
TABLE E3904.6(8)
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF CONDUCTORS IN RIGID METAL CONDUIT (RMC) a
TYPE LETTERS
CONDUCTOR SIZE
AWG/kcmil
TRADE SIZES
(inches)
v,
%
1
1V,
1V 2
2
14
4
1
12
21
28
46
12
3
6
10
17
23
38
10
3
5
8
14
19
31
8
2
4
7
10
16
6
1
3
6
8
13
4
1
2
4
6
10
RHW, RHW-2
3
1
2
4
5
9
2
1
1
3
4
7
1
1
1
1
3
5
1/0
1
1
1
2
4
2/0
1
1
1
2
4
3/0
1
1
1
3
4/0
1
1
1
3
14
9
15
25
44
59
98
TW
12
7
12
19
33
45
75
10
5
9
14
25
34
56
8
3
5
8
14
19
31
14
6
10
17
29
39
65
RHW", RHW-2 1 , THHW,
12
5
8
13
23
32
52
THW, THW-2
10
3
6
10
18
25
41
8
4
6
11
15
24
6
3
5
8
11
18
4
1
3
6
8
14
3
1
3
5
7
12
RHW a , RHW-2 a . TW,
2
1
2
4
6
10
THW, THHW, THW-2
1
1
1
3
4
7
1/0
1
1
2
3
6
2/0
1
1
2
3
5
3/0
1
1
1
2
4
4/0
1
1
1
3
14
13
22
36
63
85
140
12
9
16
26
46
62
102
10
6
10
17
29
39
64
8
3
6
9
16
22
37
THHN, THWN, THWN-2
6
2
4
7
12
16
27
4
1
2
4
7
10
16
3
1
1
3
6
8
14
2
1
1
3
5
7
11
1
1
1
1
4
5
8
1/0
1
1
1
3
4
7
THHN, THWN, THWN-2
2/0
3/0
1
1
1
1
2
1
3
3
6
5
4
4/0
1
1
1
2
14
9
15
25
44
59
98
12
7
12
19
33
45
75
10
5
9
14
25
34
56
8
3
5
8
14
19
31
6
3
6
10
14
23
4
2
4
7
10
16
XHHW, XHHW-2
3
3
6
8
14
2
3
5
7
12
1
4
5
9
1/0
3
4
7
2/0
2
3
6
3/0
1
3
5
4/0
1
2
4
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Types RHW, and RHW-2 without outer covering.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
723
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
TABLE E3904.6(9)
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF CONDUCTORS IN RIGID PVC CONDUIT, SCHEDULE 80 (PVC-80) 8
TYPE LETTERS
CONDUCTOR SIZE
AWG/kcmil
TRADE SIZES
(inches)
v,
3 /
1
IV,
Vl 2
2
RHW, RHW-2
14
12
10
8
6
4
3
2
1
1
1
1
5
4
3
1
1
1
9
7
6
3
2
1
17
14
11
6
4
3
23
19
15
8
6
5
39
32
26
13
11
8
RHW, RHW-2
3
2
1
1/0
2/0
3/0
4/0
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
3
1
1
1
1
1
4
4
2
1
1
1
1
7
6
4
3
3
3
2
TW
14
12
10
8
6
5
3
1
11
9
6
3
20
15
11
6
35
27
20
11
49
38
28
15
82
63
47
26
RHW', RHW-2", THHW,
THW, THW-2
14
12
10
8
4
3
2
8
6
5
3
13
10
8
5
23
19
15
9
32
26
20
12
55
44
34
20
RHW", RHW-2", TW,
THW, THHW, THW-2
6
4
3
2
1
1/0
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
3
2
7
5
4
3
2
1
9
7
6
5
3
3
16
12
10
8
6
5
RHW", RHW-2", TW,
THW, THHW, THW-2
2/0
3/0
4/0
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
4
3
3
THHN, THWN, THWN-2
14
12
10
8
6
4
3
2
1
1/0
2/0
3/0
4/0
9
6
4
2
1
1
1
1
17
12
7
4
3
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
28
20
13
7
5
3
3
2
1
1
1
1
1
51
37
23
13
9
6
5
4
3
2
1
1
1
70
51
32
18
13
8
7
6
4
3
3
2
1
118
86
54
31
22
14
12
10
7
6
5
4
3
XHHW, XHHW-2
14
12
10
8
6
6
5
3
1
1
11
9
6
3
2
20
15
11
6
4
35
27
20
118
49
38
28
15
11
82
63
47
26
.9
(continued)
724
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
TABLE E3904.6(9)— continued
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF CONDUCTORS IN RIGID PVC CONDUIT, SCHEDULE 80 (PVC-80) 3
TYPE LETTERS
CONDUCTOR SIZE
AWG/kcmil
TRADE SIZES
(inches)
v,
%
1
1V 4
1V,
2
14
6
11
20
35
49
82
12
5
9
15
27
38
63
10
3
6
11
20
28
47
8
3
6
11
15
26
6
2
4
8
11
19
4
3
6
8
14
XHHW, XHHW-2
3
3
5
7
12
2
2
4
6
10
1
3
4
7
1/0
2
3
6
2/0
1
3
5
3/0
1
2
4
4/0
1
1
3
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Types RHW, and RHW-2 without outer covering.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
725
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
TABLE E3904.6(10)
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF CONDUCTORS IN RIGID PVC CONDUIT SCHEDULE 40 (PVC-40) 3
TYPE LETTERS
CONDUCTOR SIZE
AWG/kcmil
TRADE SIZES
(inches)
v,
3 /
'4
1
1V 4
1V 2
2
14
4
7
11
20
27
45
12
3
5
9
16
22
37
10
2
4
7
13
18
30
RHW, RHW-2
8
6
2
1
4
3
7
5
9
7
15
12
4
1
2
4
6
10
3
1
1
4
5
8
2
1
1
3
4
7
1
1
1
1
3
5
1/0
1
1
1
2
4
RHW, RHW-2
2/0
1
1
1
3
3/0
1
1
1
3
4/0
1
1
1
2
14
8
14
24
42
57
94
TW
12
6
11
18
32
44
72
10
4
8
13
24
32
54
8
2
4
7
13
18
30
14
5
9
16
28
38
63
RHW", RHW-2", THHW,
12
4
8
12
22
30
50
THW, THW-2
10
3
6
10
17
24
39
8
1
3
6
10
14
23
6
1
2
4
8
11
18
4
1
3
6
8
13
3
1
3
5
7
11
RHW a , RHW-2 1 ', TW,
2
1
1/0
1
2
1
1
4
3
2
6
10
THW, THHW, THW-2
4
3
7
6
2/0
1
1
3
5
3/0
1
1
2
4
4/0
1
1
1
3
14
11
21
34
60
82
135
THHN, THWN, THWN-2
12
10
8
5
15
9
25
15
43
27
59
37
99
62
8
3
5
9
16
21
36
6
4
6
11
15
26
4
2
4
7
9
16
3
3
6
8
13
2
3
5
7
11
THHN, THWN, THWN-2
1
1
3
5
8
1/0
1
3
4
7
2/0
1
2
3
6
3/0
1
1
3
5
4/0
1
1
2
4
14
8
14
24
42
57
94
12
6
11
18
32
44
72
10
4
8
13
24
32
54
8
2
4
7
13
18
30
6
3
5
10
13
22
XHHW, XHHW-2
4
3
2
4
3
7
6
9
8
16
13
2
3
5
7
11
1
3
5
8
1/0
3
4
7
2/0
2
3
6
3/0
1
3
5
4/0
1
2
4
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Types RHW, and RHW-2 without outer covering.
726
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
E3905.3.2 Securing to box. All permitted wiring methods
shall be secured to the boxes.
Exception: Where nonmetallic-sheathed cable is used
with boxes not larger than a nominal size of 2'/ 4 inches
by 4 inches (57 mm by 102 mm) mounted in walls or
ceilings, and where the cable is fastened within 8
inches (203 mm) of the box measured along the sheath,
and where the sheath extends through a cable knockout
not less than '/ 4 inch (6.4 mm), securing the cable to the
box shall not be required.
E3905.3.3 Conductor rating. Nonmetallic boxes shall be
suitable for the lowest temperature-rated conductor enter-
ing the box.
E3905.4 Minimum depth of boxes for outlets, devices, and
utilization equipment. Outlet and device boxes shall have
sufficient depth to allow equipment installed within them to
be mounted properly and without the likelihood of damage to
conductors within the box.
E3905.4.1 Outlet boxes without enclosed devices or uti-
lization equipment. Outlet boxes that do not enclose
devices or utilization equipment shall have an internal
depth of not less than 7 2 inch (12.7 mm).
E3905.4.2 Utilization equipment. Outlet and device
boxes that enclose devices or utilization equipment shall
have a minimum internal depth that accommodates the
rearward projection of the equipment and the size of the
conductors that supply the equipment. The internal depth
shall include that of any extension boxes, plaster rings, or
raised covers. The internal depth shall comply with all of
the applicable provisions that follow.
Exception: Utilization equipment that is listed to be
installed with specified boxes.
1. Large equipment. Boxes that enclose devices or
utilization equipment that projects more than l 7 / 8
inches (48 mm) rearward from the mounting
plane of the box shall have a depth that is not less
than the depth of the equipment plus 7 4 inch (6.4
mm).
2. Conductors larger than 4 AWG. Boxes that
enclose devices or utilization equipment supplied
by conductors larger than 4 AWG shall be identi-
fied for their specific function.
3. Conductors 8, 6, or 4 AWG. Boxes that enclose
devices or utilization equipment supplied by 8, 6,
or 4 AWG conductors shall have an internal
depth that is not less than 2'/ 16 inches (52.4 mm).
4. Conductors 12 or 10 AWG. Boxes that enclose
devices or utilization equipment supplied by 12
or 10 AWG conductors shall have an internal
depth that is not less than 1 3 / 16 inches (30.2 mm).
Where the equipment projects rearward from the
mounting plane of the box by more than 1 inch
(25.4 mm), the box shall have a depth that is not
less than that of the equipment plus 7 4 inch (6.4
mm).
5. Conductors 14 AWG and smaller. Boxes that
enclose devices or utilization equipment supplied
by 14 AWG or smaller conductors shall have a
depth that is not less than L 7 I6 inch (23.8 mm).
E3905.5 Boxes enclosing flush-mounted devices. Boxes
enclosing flush-mounted devices shall be of such design that
the devices are completely enclosed at the back and all sides
and shall provide support for the devices. Screws for support-
ing the box shall not be used for attachment of the device
contained therein.
E3905.6 Boxes at luminaire outlets. Outlet boxes used at
luminaire or lampholder outlets shall be designed for the sup-
port of luminaires and landholders and shall be installed as
required by Section E3904.3.
E3905.6.1 Wall Outlets. Boxes used at luminaire or lam-
pholder outlets in a wall shall be marked on the interior of
the box to indicate the maximum weight of the luminaire
or lamp holder that is permitted to be supported by the box
in the wall, if other than 50 pounds ( 22.7 kg).
Exception: A wall-mounted luminaire or lampholder
weighing not more than 6 pounds (2.7 kg) shall be per-
mitted to be supported on other boxes or plaster rings
that are secured to other boxes, provided that the lumi-
naire or its supporting yoke is secured to the box with
not fewer than two No. 6 or larger screws.
E3905.6.2 Ceiling outlets. At every outlet used exclu-
sively for lighting, the box shall be designed or installed so
that a luminaire or lampholder can be attached. Such
boxes shall be capable of supporting a luminaire weighing
up to 50 pounds (22.7 kg). A luminaire that weighs more
than 50 pounds (22.7 kg) shall be supported independently
of the outlet box, unless the outlet box is listed and marked
for the maximum weight to be supported.
E3905.7 Floor boxes. Where outlet boxes for receptacles are
installed in the floor, such boxes shall be listed specifically
for that application.
E3905.8 Boxes at fan outlets. Outlet boxes and outlet box
systems used as the sole support of ceiling-suspended fans
(paddle) shall be marked by their manufacturer as suitable for
this purpose and shall not support ceiling-suspended fans
(paddle) that weigh more than 70 pounds (3 1 .8 kg). For outlet
boxes and outlet box systems designed to support ceiling-sus-
pended fans (paddle) that weigh more than 35 pounds (15.9
kg), the required marking shall include the maximum weight
to be supported.
Where spare, separately switched, ungrounded conductors
are provided to a ceiling-mounted outlet box and such box is
in a location acceptable for a ceiling-suspended (paddle) fan,
the outlet box or outlet box system shall be listed for sole sup-
port of a ceiling- suspended (paddle) fan.
E3905.9 Utilization equipment. Boxes used for the support
of utilization equipment other than ceiling-suspended (pad-
dle) fans shall meet the requirements of Sections E3905.6.1
and E3905.6.2 for the support of a luminaire that is the same
size and weight.
Exception: Utilization equipment weighing not more than
6 pounds (2.7 kg) shall be permitted to be supported on
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
727
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
other boxes or plaster rings that are secured to other boxes,
provided that the equipment or its supporting yoke is
secured to the box with not fewer than two No. 6 or larger
screws.
E3905.10 Conduit bodies and junction, pull and outlet
boxes to be accessible. Conduit bodies and junction, pull and
outlet boxes shall be installed so that the wiring therein can
be accessed without removing any part of the building or, in
underground circuits, without excavating sidewalks, paving,
earth or other substance used to establish the finished grade.
Exception: Boxes covered by gravel, light aggregate or
noncohesive granulated soil shall be listed for the applica-
tion, and the box locations shall be effectively identified
and access shall be provided for excavation.
E3905.ll Damp or wet locations. In damp or wet locations,
boxes, conduit bodies and fittings shall be placed or equipped
so as to prevent moisture from entering or accumulating
within the box, conduit body or fitting. Boxes, conduit bodies
and fittings installed in wet locations shall be listed for use in
wet locations.
E3905.12 Number of conductors in outlet, device, and
junction boxes, and conduit bodies. Boxes and conduit bod-
ies shall be of sufficient size to provide free space for all
enclosed conductors. In no case shall the volume of the box,
as calculated in Section E3905.12.1, be less than the box fill
calculation as calculated in Section E3905.12.2. The mini-
mum volume for conduit bodies shall be as calculated in Sec-
tion E3905.12.3. The provisions of this section shall not
apply to terminal housings supplied with motors or genera-
tors.
E3905.12.1 Box volume calculations. The volume of a
wiring enclosure (box) shall be the total volume of the
assembled sections, and, where used, the space provided
by plaster rings, domed covers, extension rings, etc., that
are marked with their volume in cubic inches or are made
from boxes the dimensions of which are listed in Table
E3905.12.1.
E3905. 12.1.1 Standard boxes. The volumes of stan-
dard boxes that are not marked with a cubic-inch capac-
ity shall be as given in Table E3905.12.1.
TABLE E3905.1 2.2.1
VOLUME ALLOWANCE REQUIRED PER CONDUCTOR
SIZE OF CONDUCTOR
FREE SPACE WITHIN BOX
FOR EACH CONDUCTOR
(cubic inches)
18AWG
1.50
16AWG
1.75
14 AWG
2.00
12AWG
2.25
10AWG
2.50
8AWG
3.00
6AWG
5.00
For SI: 1 cubic inch = 16.4 cm 3 .
TABLE E3905.1 2.1
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF CONDUCTORS IN METAL BOXES"
BOX DIMENSIONS
(inches trade size and type)
MAXIMUM CAPACITY
(cubic inches)
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF CONDUCTORS"
18 Awg
16 Awg
14 Awg
12 Awg
10 Awg
8 Awg
6 Awg
4 x 1 V 4 round or octagonal
12.5
8
7
6
5
5
4
2
4 x 1 7 2 round or octagonal
15.5
10
8
7
6
6
5
3
4 x 2'/ 8 round or octagonal
21.5
14
12
10
9
8
7
4
4 x 1 V 4 square
18.0
12
10
9
8
7
6
3
4 x 1 '/, square
21.0
14
12
10
9
8
7
4
4 x 2'/ 8 square
30.3
20
17
15
13
12
10
6
4'V| 6 x n / 4 square
25.5
17
14
12
11
10
8
5
4"/ l6 x "/ 2 square
29.5
19
16
14
13
11
9
5
4"/ 16 x2'/ g square
42.0
28
24
21
18
16
14
8
3 x 2 x 1 7 2 device
7.5
5
4
3
3
3
2
1
3x2x2 device
10.0
6
5
5
4
4
3
2
3 x 2 x 2V 4 device
10.5
7
6
5
4
4
3
2
3 x 2 x 2'/ 7 device
12.5
8
7
6
5
5
4
2
3 x 2 x 2 3 / 4 device
14.0
9
8
7
6
5
4
2
3 x 2x 3'/ 2 device
18.0
12
10
9
8
7
6
3
4 x 2V S x 1 7, device
10.3
6
5
5
4
4
3
2
4 x 2'/ 8 x l 7 / 8 device
13.0
8
7
6
5
5
4
2
4 x 2V S x 2V 8 device
14.5
9
8
7
6
5
4
2
3 3 / 4 x 2 x 2'/ 2 masonry box/gang
14.0
9
8
7
6
5
4
2
3 3 / 4 x 2 x 37, masonry box/gang
21.0
14
12
10
9
8
7
4
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 cubic inch = 16.4 cm 3 .
a. Where volume allowances are not required by Sections E3905.12.2.2 through E3905. 12.2.5.
728
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
E3905.12.1.2 Other boxes. Boxes 100 cubic inches
(1640 cm 3 ) or less, other than those described in Table
E3905.I2.1, and nonmetallic boxes shall be durably
and legibly marked by the manufacturer with their
cubic-inch capacity. Boxes described in Table
E3905.12.1 that have a larger cubic inch capacity than
is designated in the table shall be permitted to have
their cubic-inch capacity marked as required by this
section.
E3905.12.2 Box fill calculations. The volumes in Section
E3905. 12.2.1 through Section E3905.12.2.5, as applicable,
shall be added together. No allowance shall be required for
small fittings such as locknuts and bushings.
E3905. 12.2.1 Conductor fill. Each conductor that
originates outside the box and terminates or is spliced
within the box shall be counted once, and each conduc-
tor that passes through the box without splice or termi-
nation shall be counted once. Each loop or coil of
unbroken conductor having a length equal to or greater
than twice that required for free conductors by Section
E3406.10.3, shall be counted twice. The conductor fill,
in cubic inches, shall be computed using Table
E3905. 12.2.1. A conductor, no part of which leaves the
box, shall not be counted.
Exception: An equipment grounding conductor or
not more than four fixture wires smaller than No. 14,
or both, shall be permitted to be omitted from the
calculations where such conductors enter a box from
a domed fixture or similar canopy and terminate
within that box.
E3905.12.2.2 Clamp fill. Where one or more internal
cable clamps, whether factory or field supplied, are
present in the box, a single volume allowance in accor-
dance with Table E3905. 12.2.1 shall be made based on
the largest conductor present in the box. No allowance
shall be required for a cable connector with its clamp-
ing mechanism outside the box.
E3905. 12.2.3 Support fittings fill. Where one or more
fixture studs or hickeys are present in the box, a single
volume allowance in accordance with Table
E3905. 12.2.1 shall be made for each type of fitting
based on the largest conductor present in the box.
E3905.12.2.4 Device or equipment fill. For each yoke
or strap containing one or more devices or equipment, a
double volume allowance in accordance with Table
E3905. 12.2.1 shall be made for each yoke or strap
based on the largest conductor connected to a device(s)
or equipment supported by that yoke or strap. For a
device or utilization equipment that is wider than a sin-
gle 2-inch (51 mm) device box as described in Table
E3905.12.1, a double volume allowance shall be made
for each ganged portion required for mounting of the
device or equipment.
E3905.1 2.2.5 Equipment grounding conductor fill.
Where one or more equipment grounding conductors or
equipment bonding jumpers enters a box, a single vol-
ume allowance in accordance with Table E3905. 12.2.1
shall be made based on the largest equipment ground-
ing conductor or equipment bonding jumper present in
the box.
E3905.12.3 Conduit bodies. Conduit bodies enclosing 6
AWG conductors or smaller, other than short-radius con-
duit bodies, shall have a cross-sectional area not less than
twice the cross-sectional area of the largest conduit or tub-
ing to which they can be attached. The maximum number
of conductors permitted shall be the maximum number
permitted by Section E3904.6 for the conduit to which it is
attached.
E3905.12.3.1 Splices, taps or devices. Only those con-
duit bodies that are durably and legibly marked by the
manufacturer with their cubic inch capacity shall be
permitted to contain splices, taps or devices. The maxi-
mum number of conductors shall be calculated using
the same procedure for similar conductors in other than
standard boxes.
E3905.12.3.2 Short-radius conduit bodies. Conduit
bodies such as capped elbows and service-entrance
elbows that enclose conductors 6 AWG or smaller and
that are only intended to enable the installation of the
raceway and the contained conductors, shall not contain
splices, taps, or devices and shall be of sufficient size to
provide free space for all conductors enclosed in the
conduit body.
SECTION E3906
INSTALLATION OF BOXES, CONDUIT BODIES AND
FITTINGS
E3906.1 Conductors entering boxes, conduit bodies or fit-
tings. Conductors entering boxes, conduit bodies or fittings
shall be protected from abrasion.
E3906.1.1 Insulated fittings. Where raceways contain 4
AWG or larger insulated circuit conductors and these con-
ductors enter a cabinet, box enclosure, or raceway, the
conductors shall be protected by an identified fitting pro- j
viding a smoothly rounded insulating surface, unless the
conductors are separated from the fitting or raceway by
identified insulating material securely fastened in place. |
Exception: Where threaded hubs or bosses that are an
integral part of a cabinet, box enclosure, or raceway
provide a smoothly rounded or flared entry for conduc-
tors.
Conduit bushings constructed wholly of insulating
material shall not be used to secure a fitting or raceway.
The insulating fitting or insulating material shall have a
temperature rating not less than the insulation temperature
rating of the installed conductors.
E3906.2 Openings. Openings through which conductors
enter shall be adequately closed.
E3906.3 Metal boxes and conduit bodies. Where raceway
or cable is installed with metal boxes, or conduit bodies, the
raceway or cable shall be secured to such boxes and conduit
bodies.
E3906.4 Unused openings. Unused openings other than
those intended for the operation of equipment, those intended
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
729
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
for mounting purposes, or those permitted as part of the
design for listed equipment, shall be closed to afford protec-
tion substantially equivalent to that of the wall of the equip-
ment. Metal plugs or plates used with nonmetallic boxes or
conduit bodies shall be recessed at least 7 4 inch (6.4 mm)
from the outer surface of the box or conduit body.
E3906.5 In wall or ceiling. In walls or ceilings of concrete,
tile or other noncombustible material, boxes employing a
flush-type cover or faceplate shall be installed so that the
front edge of the box, plaster ring, extension ring, or listed
extender will not be set back from the finished surface more
than 7 4 inch (6.4 mm). In walls and ceilings constructed of
wood or other combustible material, boxes, plaster rings,
extension rings and listed extenders shall be flush with the
finished surface or project therefrom.
E3906.6 Noncombustible surfaces. Openings in noncom-
bustible surfaces that accommodate boxes employing a flush-
type cover or faceplate shall be made so that there are no gaps
or open spaces greater than 7 8 inch (3.2 mm) around the edge
of the box.
E3906.7 Surface extensions. Surface extensions shall be
made by mounting and mechanically securing an extension
ring over the box.
Exception: A surface extension shall be permitted to be
made from the cover of a flush-mounted box where the
cover is designed so it is unlikely to fall off, or be removed
if its securing means becomes loose. The wiring method
shall be flexible for a length sufficient to permit removal
of the cover and provide access to the box interior and
arranged so that any bonding or grounding continuity is
independent of the connection between the box and cover.
E3906.8 Supports. Boxes and enclosures shall be supported
in accordance with one or more of the provisions in Sections
E3906.8.1 through E3906.8.6.
E3906.8.1 Surface mounting. An enclosure mounted on a
building or other surface shall be rigidly and securely fas-
tened in place. If the surface does not provide rigid and
secure support, additional support in accordance with
other provisions of Section E3906.8 shall be provided.
E3906.8.2 Structural mounting. An enclosure supported
from a structural member of a building or from grade shall
be rigidly supported either directly, or by using a metal,
polymeric or wood brace.
E3906.8.2.1 Nails and screws. Nails and screws,
where used as a fastening means, shall be attached by
using brackets on the outside of the enclosure, or they
shall pass through the interior within V 4 inch (6.4 mm)
of the back or ends of the enclosure. Screws shall not
be permitted to pass through the box except where
exposed threads in the box are protected by an
approved means to avoid abrasion of conductor insula-
tion.
E3906.8.2.2 Braces. Metal braces shall be protected
against corrosion and formed from metal that is not less
than 0.020 inch (0.508 mm) thick uncoated. Wood
braces shall have a cross section not less than nominal 1
inch by 2 inches (25.4 mm by 51 mm). Wood braces in
wet locations shall be treated for the conditions. Poly-
meric braces shall be identified as being suitable for the
use.
E3906.8.3 Mounting in finished surfaces. An enclosure
mounted in a finished surface shall be rigidly secured there
to by clamps, anchors, or fittings identified for the applica-
tion.
E3906.8.4 Raceway supported enclosures without
devices or fixtures. An enclosure that does not contain a
device(s), other than splicing devices, or support a lumi-
naire, lampholder or other equipment, and that is sup-
ported by entering raceways shall not exceed 100 cubic
inches (1640 cm 3 ) in size. The enclosure shall have
threaded entries or have hubs identified for the purpose.
The enclosure shall be supported by two or more conduits
threaded wrenchtight into the enclosure or hubs. Each con-
duit shall be secured within 3 feet (914 mm) of the enclo-
sure, or within 1 8 inches (457 mm) of the enclosure if all
entries are on the same side of the enclosure.
Exception: Rigid metal, intermediate metal, or rigid
polyvinyl chloride nonmetallic conduit or electrical j
metallic tubing shall be permitted to support a conduit
body of any size, provided that the conduit body is not
larger in trade size than the largest trade size of the sup-
porting conduit or electrical metallic tubing.
E3906.8.5 Raceway supported enclosures, with devices
or luminaire. An enclosure that contains a device(s),
other than splicing devices, or supports a luminaire, lamp-
holder or other equipment and is supported by entering
raceways shall not exceed 100 cubic inches (1640 cm 3 ) in
size. The enclosure shall have threaded entries or have
hubs identified for the purpose. The enclosure shall be
supported by two or more conduits threaded wrench-tight
into the enclosure or hubs. Each conduit shall be secured
within 18 inches (457 mm) of the enclosure.
Exceptions:
1. Rigid metal or intermediate metal conduit shall
be permitted to support a conduit body of any
size, provided that the conduit bodies are not
larger in trade size than the largest trade size of
the supporting conduit.
2. An unbroken length(s) of rigid or intermediate
metal conduit shall be permitted to support a box
used for luminaire or lampholder support, or to
support a wiring enclosure that is an integral part
of a luminaire and used in lieu of a box in accor-
dance with Section E3905.1.1, where all of the
following conditions are met:
2.1 . The conduit is securely fastened at a point
so that the length of conduit beyond the
last point of conduit support does not
exceed 3 feet (914 mm).
2.2. The unbroken conduit length before the
last point of conduit support is 12 inches
(305 mm) or greater, and that portion of
the conduit is securely fastened at some
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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point not less than 12 inches (305 mm)
from its last point of support.
2.3. Where accessible to unqualified persons,
the luminaire or lampholder, measured to
its lowest point, is not less than 8 feet
(2438 mm) above grade or standing area
and at least 3 feet (914 mm) measured
horizontally to the 8-foot (2438 mm) ele-
vation from windows, doors, porches, fire
escapes, or similar locations.
2.4. A luminaire supported by a single conduit
does not exceed 12 inches (305 mm) in
any direction from the point of conduit
entry.
2.5. The weight supported by any single con-
duit does not exceed 20 pounds (9. 1 kg).
2.6. At the luminaire or lampholder end, the
conduit(s) is threaded wrenchtight into
the box, conduit body, or integral wiring
enclosure, or into hubs identified for the
purpose. Where a box or conduit body is
used for support, the luminaire shall be
secured directly to the box or conduit
body, or through a threaded conduit nip-
ple not over 3 inches (76 mm) long.
E3906.8.6 Enclosures in concrete or masonry. An
enclosure supported by embedment shall be identified as
being suitably protected from corrosion and shall be
securely embedded in concrete or masonry.
E3906.9 Covers and canopies. Outlet boxes shall be effec-
tively closed with a cover, faceplate or fixture canopy.
E3906.10 Metal covers and plates. Metal covers and plates
shall be grounded.
E3906.ll Exposed combustible finish. Combustible wall or
ceiling finish exposed between the edge of a fixture canopy
or pan and the outlet box shall be covered with noncombusti-
ble material.
SECTION E3907
CABINETS AND PANES-BOARDS
E3907.1 Switch and overcurrent device enclosures with
splices, taps, and feed-through conductors. Where the wir-
ing space of enclosures for switches or overcurrent devices
contains conductors that are feeding through, spliced, or tap-
ping off to other enclosures, switches, or overcurrent devices,
all of the following conditions shall apply:
1. The total area of all conductors installed at any cross
section of the wiring space shall not exceed 40 percent
of the cross-sectional area of that space.
2. The total area of all conductors, splices, and taps
installed at any cross section of the wiring space shall
not exceed 75 percent of the cross-sectional area of that
space.
3. A warning label shall be applied to the enclosure that
identifies the closest disconnecting means for any feed-
through conductors.
E3907.2 Damp and wet locations. In damp or wet locations,
cabinets and panelboards of the surface type shall be placed
or equipped so as to prevent moisture or water from entering
and accumulating within the cabinet, and shall be mounted to
provide an air-space not less than 7 4 inch (6.4 mm) between
the enclosure and the wall or other supporting surface. Cabi-
nets installed in wet locations shall be weatherproof. For
enclosures in wet locations, raceways and cables entering
above the level of uninsulated live parts shall be installed
with fittings listed for wet locations.
Exception: Nonmetallic enclosures installed on concrete,
masonry, tile, or similar surfaces shall not be required to
be installed with an air space between the enclosure and
the wall or supporting surface.
E3907.3 Position in wall. In walls of concrete, tile or other
noncombustible material, cabinets and panelboards shall be
installed so that the front edge of the cabinet will not set back
of the finished surface more than 7 4 inch (6.4 mm). In walls
constructed of wood or other combustible material, cabinets
shall be flush with the finished surface or shall project there-
from.
E3907.4 Repairing noncombustible surfaces. Noncombus-
tible surfaces that are broken or incomplete shall be repaired
so that there will not be gaps or open spaces greater than 7 8
inch (3.2 mm) at the edge of the cabinet or cutout box
employing a flush-type cover.
E3907.5 Unused openings. Unused openings, other than
those intended for the operation of equipment, those intended
for mounting purposes, and those permitted as part of the
design for listed equipment, shall be closed to afford protec-
tion substantially equivalent to that of the wall of the equip-
ment. Metal plugs and plates used with nonmetallic cabinets
shall be recessed at least 7 4 inch (6.4 mm) from the outer sur-
face. Unused openings for circuit breakers and switches shall
be closed using identified closures, or other approved means
that provide protection substantially equivalent to the wall of
the enclosure.
E3907.6 Conductors entering cabinets. Conductors enter-
ing cabinets and panelboards shall be protected from abrasion
and shall comply with Section E3906. 1.1.
E3907.7 Openings to be closed. Openings through which
conductors enter cabinets, panelboards and meter sockets
shall be adequately closed.
E3907.8 Cables. Where cables are used, each cable shall be
secured to the cabinet, panelboard, cutout box, or meter
socket enclosure.
Exception: Cables with entirely nonmetallic sheaths shall
be permitted to enter the top of a surface-mounted enclo-
sure through one or more sections of rigid raceway not
less than 1 8 inches (457 mm) nor more than 10 feet (3048
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mm) in length, provided all the following conditions are
met:
1. Each cable is fastened within 12 inches (305 mm),
measured along the sheath, of the outer end of the
raceway.
2. The raceway extends directly above the enclosure
and does not penetrate a structural ceiling.
3. A fitting is provided on each end of the raceway to
protect the cable(s) from abrasion and the fittings
remain accessible after installation.
4. The raceway is sealed or plugged at the outer end
using approved means so as to prevent access to the
enclosure through the raceway.
5. The cable sheath is continuous through the raceway
and extends into the enclosure beyond the fitting not
less than '/, inch (6.4 mm).
6. The raceway is fastened at its outer end and at other
points in accordance with Section E3802.1.
7. The allowable cable fill shall not exceed that permit-
ted by Table E3907.8.A multiconductor cable hav-
ing two or more conductors shall be treated as a
single conductor for calculating the percentage of
conduit fill area. For cables that have elliptical cross
sections, the cross-sectional area calculation shall be
based on the major diameter of the ellipse as a circle
diameter.
TABLE E3907.8
PERCENT OF CROSS SECTION OF
CONDUIT AND TUBING FOR CONDUCTORS
NUMBER OF
CONDUCTORS
MAXIMUM PERCENT OF CONDUIT AND
TUBING AREA FILLED BY CONDUCTORS
1
53
2
31
Over 2
40
SECTION E3908
GROUNDING
E3908.1 Metal enclosures. Metal enclosures of conductors,
devices and equipment shall be connected to the equipment
grounding conductor.
Exceptions:
1. Short sections of metal enclosures or raceways used
to provide cable assemblies with support or protec-
tion against physical damage.
2. A metal elbow that is installed in an underground
installation of rigid nonmetallic conduit and is iso-
lated from possible contact by a minimum cover of
18 inches (457 mm) to any part of the elbow or that
is encased in not less than 2 inches (5 1 mm) of con-
crete.
E3908.2 Equipment fastened in place or connected by
permanent wiring methods (fixed). Exposed, normally
noncurrent-carrying metal parts of fixed equipment supplied
by or enclosing conductors or components that are likely to
become energized shall be connected to the equipment
grounding conductor where any of the following conditions
apply:
1. Where within 8 feet (2438 mm) vertically or 5 feet
(1524 mm) horizontally of earth or grounded metal
objects and subject to contact by persons;
2. Where located in a wet or damp location and not iso-
lated; or
3. Where in electrical contact with metal.
E3908.3 Specific equipment fastened in place (fixed) or
connected by permanent wiring methods. Exposed, nor- 1
mally noncurrent-carrying metal parts of the following equip- I
ment and enclosures shall be connected to an equipment |
grounding conductor:
1. Luminaires as provided in Chapter 40.
2. Motor-operated water pumps, including submersible
types.Where a submersible pump is used in a metal
well casing, the well casing shall be connected to the |
pump circuit equipment grounding conductor.
E3908.4 Effective ground-fault current path. Electrical
equipment and wiring and other electrically conductive mate-
rial likely to become energized shall be installed in a manner
that creates a low-impedance circuit facilitating the operation
of the overcurrent device or ground detector for high-imped-
ance grounded systems. Such circuit shall be capable of
safely carrying the maximum ground-fault current likely to
be imposed on it from any point on the wiring system where a
ground fault might occur to the electrical supply source.
E3908.5 Earth as a ground-fault current path. The earth
shall not be considered as an effective ground-fault current
path.
E3908.6 Load-side grounded conductor neutral. A
grounded conductor shall not be connected to normally non-
current-carrying metal parts of equipment, to equipment
grounding conductor(s), or be reconnected to ground on the
load side of the service disconnecting means.
E3908.7 Load-side equipment. A grounded circuit conduc-
tor shall not be used for grounding noncurrent-carrying metal
parts of equipment on the load side of the service disconnect-
ing means.
E3908.8 Types of equipment grounding conductors. The
equipment grounding conductor run with or enclosing the cir-
cuit conductors shall be one or more or a combination of the
following:
1. A copper, aluminum or copper-clad conductor.This
conductor shall be solid or stranded; insulated, covered
or bare; and in the form of a wire or a busbar of any
shape.
2. Rigid metal conduit.
3. Intermediate metal conduit.
4. Electrical metallic tubing.
5. Armor of Type AC cable in accordance with Section
E3908.4.
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6. Type MC cable that provides an effective ground-fault
current path in accordance with one or more of the fol-
lowing:
6.1. It contains an insulated or uninsulated equip-
ment grounding conductor in compliance with
Item 1 of this section.
6.2. The combined metallic sheath and uninsulated
equipment grounding/bonding conductor of
interlocked metal tape-type MC cable that is
listed and identified as an equipment grounding
conductor.
6.3. The metallic sheath or the combined metallic
sheath and equipment grounding conductors of
the smooth or corrugated tube-type MC cable
that is listed and identified as an equipment
grounding conductor.
7. Other electrically continuous metal raceways and auxil-
iary gutters.
8. Surface metal raceways listed for grounding.
E3908.8.1 Flexible metal conduit. Flexible metal conduit
shall be permitted as an equipment grounding conductor
where all of the following conditions are met:
1 . The conduit is terminated in listed fittings.
2. The circuit conductors contained in the conduit are
protected by overcurrent devices rated at 20 amperes
or less.
3. The combined length of flexible metal conduit and
flexible metallic tubing and liquid-tight flexible
metal conduit in the same ground return path does
not exceed 6 feet (1829 mm).
If used to connect equipment where flexibility is neces-
sary to minimize the transmission of vibration from equip-
ment or to provide flexibility for equipment that requires
movement after installation, an equipment grounding con-
ductor shall be installed.
E3908.8.2 Liquid-tight flexible metal conduit. Liquid-
tight flexible metal conduit shall be permitted as an equip-
ment grounding conductor where all of the following con-
ditions are met:
1 . The conduit is terminated in listed fittings.
2. For trade sizes 3 / g through V 2 (metric designator 12
through 16), the circuit conductors contained in the
conduit are protected by overcurrent devices rated at
20 amperes or less.
3. For trade sizes 3 / 4 through l'/ 4 (metric designator 21
through 35), the circuit conductors contained in the
conduit are protected by overcurrent devices rated at
not more than 60 amperes and there is no flexible
metal conduit, flexible metallic tubing, or liquid-
tight flexible metal conduit in trade sizes 3 / 8 inch or
7 2 inch (9.5 mm through 12.7 mm) in the ground
fault current path.
4. The combined length of flexible metal conduit and
flexible metallic tubing and liquid-tight flexible
metal conduit in the same ground return path does
not exceed 6 feet ( 1 829 mm).
If used to connect equipment where flexibility is neces-
sary to minimize the transmission of vibration from equip-
ment or to provide flexibility for equipment that requires
movement after installation, an equipment grounding con-
ductor shall be installed.
E3908.8.3 Nonmetallic sheathed cable (Type NM). In
addition to the insulated conductors, the cable shall have
an insulated, covered, or bare equipment grounding con-
ductor. Equipment grounding conductors shall be sized in
accordance with Table E3908.12.
E3908.9 Equipment fastened in place or connected by
permanent wiring methods. Noncurrent-carrying metal
pails of equipment, raceways and other enclosures, where
required to be grounded, shall be grounded by one of the fol-
lowing methods:
1 . By any of the equipment grounding conductors permit-
ted by Sections E3908.8 through E3908.8.3.
2. By an equipment grounding conductor contained
within the same raceway, cable or cord, or otherwise
run with the circuit conductors. Equipment grounding
conductors shall be identified in accordance with Sec-
tion E3407.2.
E3908.10 Methods of equipment grounding. Fixtures and
equipment shall be considered grounded where mechanically
connected to an equipment grounding conductor as specified
in Sections E3908.8 through E3908.8.3. Wire type equipment
grounding conductors shall be sized in accordance with Sec-
tion E3908. 12.
E3908.ll Equipment grounding conductor installation.
Where an equipment grounding conductor consists of a race-
way, cable armor or cable sheath or where such conductor is a
wire within a raceway or cable, it shall be installed in accor-
dance with the provisions of this chapter and Chapters 34 and
38 using fittings for joints and terminations approved for
installation with the type of raceway or cable used. All con-
nections, joints and fittings shall be made tight using suitable
tools.
E3908.12 Equipment grounding conductor size. Copper,
aluminum and copper-clad aluminum equipment grounding
conductors of the wire type shall be not smaller than shown in
Table E3908.12, but in no case shall they be required to be
larger than the circuit conductors supplying the equipment.
Where a raceway or a cable armor or sheath is used as the
equipment grounding conductor, as provided in Section
E3908.8, it shall comply with Section E3908.4. Where
ungrounded connectors are increased in size, equipment
grounding conductors shall be increased proportionally
according to the circular mil area of the ungrounded conduc-
tors.
E3908.12.I Multiple circuits. Where a single equipment
grounding conductor is run with multiple circuits in the
same raceway or cable, it shall be sized for the largest
overcurrent device protecting conductors in the raceway or
cable.
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E3908.13 Continuity and attachment of equipment
grounding conductors to boxes. Where circuit conductors
are spliced within a box or terminated on equipment within or
supported by a box, any equipment grounding conductors
associated with the circuit conductors shall be connected
within the box or to the box with devices suitable for the use.
Connections depending solely on solder shall not be used.
Splices shall be made in accordance with Section E3406.10
except that insulation shall not be required. The arrangement
of grounding connections shall be such that the disconnection
or removal of a receptacle, luminaire or other device fed from
the box will not interfere with or interrupt the grounding con-
tinuity.
E3908.14 Connecting receptacle grounding terminal to
box. An equipment bonding jumper, sized in accordance with
Table E3908.12 based on the rating of the overcurrent device
protecting the circuit conductors, shall be used to connect the
grounding terminal of a grounding-type receptacle to a
grounded box except where grounded in accordance with one
of the following:
1. Surface mounted box. Where the box is mounted on the
surface, direct metal-to-metal contact between the
device yoke and the box shall be permitted to ground
the receptacle to the box. At least one of the insulating
washers shall be removed from receptacles that do not
have a contact yoke or device designed and listed to be
used in conjunction with the supporting screws to
establish the grounding circuit between the device yoke
and flush-type boxes. This provision shall not apply to
cover-mounted receptacles except where the box and
cover combination are listed as providing satisfactory
ground continuity between the box and the receptacle.
A listed exposed work cover shall be considered to be
the grounding and bonding means where the device is
attached to the cover with at least two fasteners that are
permanent, such as a rivet or have a thread locking or
screw locking means and where the cover mounting
holes are located on a flat non-raised portion of the
cover.
2. Contact devices or yokes. Contact devices or yokes
designed and listed for the purpose shall be permitted in
conjunction with the supporting screws to establish the
grounding circuit between the device yoke and flush-
type boxes.
3. Floor boxes.The receptacle is installed in a floor box
designed for and listed as providing satisfactory ground
continuity between the box and the device.
E3908.15 Metal boxes. A connection shall be made between
the one or more equipment grounding conductors and a metal
box by means of a grounding screw that shall be used for no
other purpose, equipment listed for grounding or by means of
a listed grounding device. Where screws are used to connect
grounding conductors or connection devices to boxes, such
screws shall be:
1 . Machine screw-type fasteners that engage not less than
two threads,
2. Secured with a nut, or
3. Thread- forming machine screws that engage not less
than two threads in the enclosure.
E3908.16 Nonmetallic boxes. One or more equipment
grounding conductors brought into a nonmetallic outlet box
shall be arranged to allow connection to fittings or devices
installed in that box.
E3908.17 Clean surfaces. Nonconductive coatings such as
paint, lacquer and enamel on equipment to be grounded shall
be removed from threads and other contact surfaces to ensure
electrical continuity or the equipment shall be connected by
means of fittings designed so as to make such removal unnec-
essary.
E3908.18 Bonding other enclosures. Metal raceways, cable
armor, cable sheath, enclosures, frames, fittings and other
metal noncurrent-carrying parts that serve as equipment
grounding conductors, with or without the use of supplemen-
tary equipment grounding conductors, shall be effectively
bonded where necessary to ensure electrical continuity and
the capacity to conduct safely any fault current likely to be
imposed on them. Any nonconductive paint, enamel and sim-
ilar coating shall be removed at threads, contact points and
contact surfaces, or connections shall be made by means of
fittings designed so as to make such removal unnecessary.
E3908.19 Size of equipment bonding jumper on load side
of an overcurrent device. The equipment bonding jumper on
the load side of an overcurrent devices shall be sized, as a
minimum, in accordance with Table E3908.12, but shall not
be required to be larger than the circuit conductors supplying
TABLEE3908.12
EQUIPMENT GROUNDING CONDUCTOR SIZING
RATING OR SETTING OF AUTOMATIC OVERCURRENT DEVICE IN CIRCUIT AHEAD OF
EQUIPMENT, CONDUIT, ETC., NOT EXCEEDING THE FOLLOWING RATINGS (amperes)
MINIMUM SIZE
Copper wire No. (AWG)
Aluminum or copper-clad
aluminum wire No. (AWG)
15
14
12
20
12
10
60
10
8
100
8
6
200
6
4
300
4
2
400
3
1
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the equipment. An equipment bonding conductor shall be not
smaller than No. 14 AWG.
A single common continuous equipment bonding jumper
shall be permitted to connect two or more raceways or cables
where the bonding jumper is sized in accordance with Table
E3908.12 for the largest overcurrent device supplying circuits
therein.
E3908.20 Installation equipment bonding jumper. Bond-
ing jumpers or conductors and equipment bonding jumpers
shall be installed either inside or outside of a raceway or an
enclosure in accordance with Sections E3908.20.1 and
E3908.20.2.
E3908.20.1 Inside raceway or enclosure. Where
installed inside a raceway or enclosure, equipment bond-
ing jumpers and bonding jumpers or conductors shall com-
ply with the requirements of Sections E3407.2 and
E3908.13.
E3908.20.2 Outside raceway or enclosure. Where
installed outside of a raceway or enclosure, the length of
the bonding jumper or conductor or equipment bonding
jumper shall not exceed 6 feet (1829 mm) and shall be
routed with the raceway or enclosure.
Equipment bonding jumpers and supply-side bonding
jumpers installed for bonding grounding electrodes and
installed at outdoor pole locations for the purpose of bond-
ing or grounding isolated sections of metal raceways or
elbows installed in exposed risers of metal conduit or other
metal raceway, shall not be limited in length and shall not
be required to be routed with a raceway or enclosure.
E3908.20.3 Protection. Bonding jumpers or conductors
and equipment bonding jumpers shall be installed in
accordance with Section E3610.2.
TABLE E3909.2
MAXIMUM AMPERE LOAD FOR FLEXIBLE CORDS
CORD SIZE
(AWG)
CORD TYPES S, SE, SEO, SJ, SJE, SJEO, SJO, SJOO,
SJT, SJTO, SJTOO, SO, SOO, SRD, SRDE, SRDT, ST,
STD, SV, SVO, SVOO, SVTO, SVTOO
Maximum ampere load
Three current-carrying
conductors
Two current-carrying
conductors
18
16
14
12
7
10
15
20
10
13
18
25
E3909.3 Splices. Flexible cord shall be used only in continu-
ous lengths without splices or taps.
E3909.4 Attachment plugs. Where used in accordance with
Section E3909. 1 , each flexible cord shall be equipped with an
attachment plug and shall be energized from a receptacle out-
let.
SECTION E3909
FLEXIBLE CORDS
E3909.1 Where permitted. Flexible cords shall be used only
for the connection of appliances where the fastening means
and mechanical connections of such appliances are designed
to permit ready removal for maintenance, repair or frequent
interchange and the appliance is listed for flexible cord con-
nection. Flexible cords shall not be installed as a substitute
for the fixed wiring of a structure; shall not be run through
holes in walls, structural ceilings, suspended ceilings,
dropped ceilings or floors; shall not be concealed behind
walls, floors, ceilings or located above suspended or dropped
ceilings.
E3909.2 Loading and protection. The ampere load of flexi-
ble cords serving fixed appliances shall be in accordance with
Table E3909.2. This table shall be used in conjunction with
applicable end use product standards to ensure selection of
the proper size and type. Where flexible cord is approved for
and used with a specific listed appliance, it shall be consid-
ered to be protected where applied within the appliance list-
ing requirements.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
735
736 201 2 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 40
SECTION E4001
SWITCHES
E4001.1 Rating and application of snap switches. General-
use snap switches shall be used within their ratings and shall
control only the following loads:
| 1 . Resistive and inductive loads not exceeding the ampere
rating of the switch at the voltage involved.
2. Tungsten-filament lamp loads not exceeding the
ampere rating of the switch at 1 20 volts.
3. Motor loads not exceeding 80 percent of the ampere
rating of the switch at its rated voltage.
E4001.2 CO/ALR snap switches. Snap switches rated 20
amperes or less directly connected to aluminum conductors
shall be marked CO/ALR.
E4001.3 Indicating. General-use and motor-circuit switches
and circuit breakers shall clearly indicate whether they are in
the open OFF or closed ON position. Where single- throw
switches or circuit breaker handles are operated vertically
rather than rotationally or horizontally, the up position of the
handle shall be the ON position.
E4001.4 Time switches and similar devices. Time switches
and similar devices shall be of the enclosed type or shall be
mounted in cabinets or boxes or equipment enclosures. A bar-
rier shall be used around energized parts to prevent operator
exposure when making manual adjustments or switching.
E4001.5 Grounding of enclosures. Metal enclosures for
switches or circuit breakers shall be connected to an equip-
ment grounding conductor. Metal enclosures for switches or
circuit breakers used as service equipment shall comply with
the provisions of Section E3609.4. Where nonmetallic enclo-
sures are used with metal raceways or metal-armored cables,
provisions shall be made for connecting the equipment
grounding conductor.
Nonmetallic boxes for switches shall be installed with a
wiring method that provides or includes an equipment
grounding conductor.
E4001.6 Access. All switches and circuit breakers used as
switches shall be located to allow operation from a readily
accessible location. Such devices shall be installed so that the
center of the grip of the operating handle of the switch or cir-
cuit breaker, when in its highest position, will not be more
than 6 feet 7 inches (2007 mm) above the floor or working
platform.
E4001.7 Damp or wet locations. A surface mounted switch
or circuit breaker located in a damp or wet location or outside
of a building shall be enclosed in a weatherproof enclosure or
cabinet. A flush-mounted switch or circuit breaker in a damp
or wet location shall be equipped with a weatherproof cover.
Switches shall not be installed within wet locations in tub or
shower spaces unless installed as part of a listed tub or
shower assembly.
E4001.8 Grounded conductors. Switches or circuit breakers
shall not disconnect the grounded conductor of a circuit
except where the switch or circuit breaker simultaneously
disconnects all conductors of the circuit.
E4001.9 Switch connections. Three- and four-way switches
shall be wired so that all switching occurs only in the
ungrounded circuit conductor. Color coding of switch con-
nection conductors shall comply with Section E3407.3.
Where in metal raceways or metal-jacketed cables, wiring
between switches and outlets shall be in accordance with Sec-
tion E3406.7.
Exception: Switch loops do not require a grounded con-
ductor.
E4001.10 Box mounted. Flush-type snap switches mounted
in boxes that are recessed from the finished wall surfaces as
covered in Section E3906.5 shall be installed so that the
extension plaster ears are seated against the surface of the
wall. Flush-type snap switches mounted in boxes that are
flush with the finished wall surface or project therefrom shall
be installed so that the mounting yoke or strap of the switch is
seated against the box.
E4001.ll Snap switch faceplates. Faceplates provided for
snap switches mounted in boxes and other enclosures shall be
installed so as to completely cover the opening and, where the
switch is flush mounted, seat against the finished surface.
E4001.ll. 1 Faceplate grounding. Snap switches, includ-
ing dimmer and similar control switches, shall be con-
nected to an equipment grounding conductor and shall
provide a means to connect metal faceplates to the equip-
ment grounding conductor, whether or not a metal face-
plate is installed. Snap switches shall be considered to be
part of an effective ground-fault current path if either of
the following conditions is met:
1 . The switch is mounted with metal screws to a metal
box or metal cover that is connected to an equipment
grounding conductor or to a nonmetallic box with
integral means for connecting to an equipment
grounding conductor.
2. An equipment grounding conductor or equipment
bonding jumper is connected to an equipment
grounding termination of the snap switch.
Exceptions:
1. Where a means to connect to an equipment
grounding conductor does not exist within the
snap-switch enclosure or where the wiring
method does not include or provide an equipment
grounding conductor, a snap switch without a
grounding connection to an equipment grounding
conductor shall be permitted for replacement pur-
poses only. A snap switch wired under the provi-
sions of this exception and located within 8 feet
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
737
DEVICES AND LUMINAIRES
(2438 mm) vertically or 5 feet (1524 mm) hori-
zontally of ground or exposed grounded metal
objects, shall be provided with a faceplate of non-
conducting noncombustible material with non-
metallic attachment screws, except where the
switch-mounting strap or yoke is nonmetallic or
the circuit is protected by a ground-fault circuit
interrupter.
2. Listed kits or listed assemblies shall not be
required to be connected to an equipment ground-
ing conductor if all of the following conditions
apply:
2.1. The device is provided with a nonmetallic
faceplate that cannot be installed on any
other type of device.
2.2. The device does not have mounting
means to accept other configurations of
faceplates.
2.3. The device is equipped with a nonmetallic
yoke.
2.4. All parts of the device that are accessible
after installation of the faceplate are man-
ufactured of nonmetallic materials.
3. Connection to an equipment grounding conductor
shall not be required for snap switches that have
an integral nonmetallic enclosure complying with
Section E3905. 13.
E4001.12 Dimmer switches. General-use dimmer switches
shall be used only to control permanently installed incandes-
cent luminaires (lighting fixtures) except where listed for the
control of other loads and installed accordingly.
E4001.13 Multipole snap switches. A multipole, general-
use snap switch shall not be fed from more than a single cir-
cuit unless it is listed and marked as a two-circuit or three-cir-
cuit switch, or unless its voltage rating is not less than the
nominal line-to-line voltage of the system supplying the cir-
cuits.
E4001.14 Cord-and-plug-connected loads. Where snap
switches are used to control cord-and-plug-connected equip-
ment on a general-purpose branch circuit, each snap switch
controlling receptacle outlets or cord connectors that are sup-
plied by permanently connected cord pendants shall be rated
at not less than the rating of the maximum permitted ampere
rating or setting of the overcurrent device protecting the
receptacles or cord connectors, as provided in Sections
E4002.1.1 andE4002.1.2.
E4001.15 Switches controlling lighting loads. Where
switches control lighting loads supplied by a grounded gen-
eral purpose branch circuit, the grounded circuit conductor
for the controlled lighting circuit shall be provided at the
switch location.
Exception: The grounded circuit conductor is not required
to be provided at the switch enclosure where either of the
following conditions apply:
1. The conductors enter the box through a raceway.
The raceway shall have sufficient cross-sectional
area to accommodate the extension of the grounded
circuit conductor of the lighting circuit to the switch
location whether or not the conductors in the race-
way are required to be increased in size to comply
with Section E3705.3.
2. Cable assemblies enter the box through a framing
cavity that is open at the top or bottom on the same
floor level, or through a wall, floor, or ceiling that is
unfinished on one side.
SECTION E4002
RECEPTACLES
E4002.1 Rating and type. Receptacles and cord connectors
shall be rated at not less than 15 amperes, 125 volts, or 15
amperes, 250 volts, and shall not be a lampholder type.
Receptacles shall be rated in accordance with this section.
E4002.1.1 Single receptacle. A single receptacle installed
on an individual branch circuit shall have an ampere rating
not less than that of the branch circuit.
E4002.1.2 Two or more receptacles. Where connected to
a branch circuit supplying two or more receptacles or out-
lets, receptacles shall conform to the values listed in Table
E4002.1.2.
TABLEE4002.1.2
RECEPTACLE RATINGS FOR
VARIOUS SIZE MULTI-OUTLET CIRCUITS
CIRCUIT RATING (amperes)
RECEPTACLE RATING (amperes)
15
15
20
15 or 20
30
30
40
40 or 50
50
50
E4002.2 Grounding type. Receptacles installed on 15- and
20-ampere-rated branch circuits shall be of the grounding
type.
E4002.3 CO/ALR receptacles. Receptacles rated at 20
amperes or less and directly connected to aluminum conduc-
tors shall be marked CO/ALR.
E4002.4 Faceplates. Metal face plates shall be grounded.
E4002.5 Position of receptacle faces. After installation,
receptacle faces shall be flush with or project from face plates
of insulating material and shall project a minimum of 0.015
inch (0.381 mm) from metal face plates. Faceplates shall be
installed so as to completely cover the opening and seat
against the mounting surface. Receptacle faceplates mounted
inside of a box having a recess-mounted receptacle shall
effectively close the opening and seat against the mounting
surface.
Exception: Listed kits or assemblies encompassing recep-
tacles and nonmetallic faceplates that cover the receptacle
face, where the plate cannot be installed on any other
receptacle, shall be permitted.
E4002.6 Receptacle mounted in boxes. Receptacles
mounted in boxes that are set back from the finished wall sur-
738
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
DEVICES AND LUMINAIRES
face as permitted by Section E3906.5 shall be installed so that
the mounting yoke or strap of the receptacle is held rigidly at
the finished surface of the wall. Receptacles mounted in
boxes that are flush with the wall surface or project therefrom
shall be so installed that the mounting yoke or strap is seated
against the box or raised cover.
E4002.7 Receptacles mounted on covers. Receptacles
mounted to and supported by a cover shall be held rigidly
against the cover by more than one screw or shall be a device
assembly or box cover listed and identified for securing by a
single screw.
E4002.8 Damp locations. A receptacle installed outdoors in
a location protected from the weather or in other damp loca-
tions shall have an enclosure for the receptacle that is weath-
erproof when the receptacle cover(s) is closed and an
attachment plug cap is not inserted. An installation suitable
for wet locations shall also be considered suitable for damp
locations. A receptacle shall be considered to be in a location
protected from the weather where located under roofed open
porches, canopies and similar structures and not subject to
rain or water runoff. Fifteen- and 20-ampere, 125- and 250-
volt nonlocking receptacles installed in damp locations shall
be listed a weather-resistant type.
E4002.9 Fifteen- and 20-ampere receptacles in wet loca-
tions. Where installed in a wet location, 15- and 20-ampere,
125- and 250-volt receptacles shall have an enclosure that is
weatherproof whether or not the attachment plug cap is
inserted. Fifteen- and 20-ampere, 125- and 250-volt nonlock-
ing receptacles installed in wet locations shall be a listed
weather-resistant type.
E4002.10 Other receptacles in wet locations. Where a
receptacle other than a 15- or 20-amp, 125- or 250-volt recep-
tacle is installed in a wet location and where the product
intended to be plugged into it is not attended while in use, the
receptacle shall have an enclosure that is weatherproof both
when the attachment plug cap is inserted and when it is
removed. Where such receptacle is installed in a wet location
and where the product intended to be plugged into it will be
attended while in use, the receptacle shall have an enclosure
that is weatherproof when the attachment plug cap is
removed.
E4002.ll Bathtub and shower space. A receptacle shall not
be installed within or directly over a bathtub or shower stall.
E4002.12 Flush mounting with faceplate. In damp or wet
locations, the enclosure for a receptacle installed in an outlet
box flush-mounted in a finished surface shall be made weath-
erproof by means of a weatherproof faceplate assembly that
provides a water-tight connection between the plate and the
finished surface.
E4002.13 Exposed terminals. Receptacles shall be enclosed
so that live wiring terminals are not exposed to contact.
E4002.14 Tamper-resistant receptacles. In areas specified
in Section E3901.1, 125-volt, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles
shall be listed tamper-resistant receptacles.
Exception: Receptacles in the following locations shall
not be required to be tamper resistant:
1. Receptacles located more than 5.5 feet (1676 mm)
above the floor.
2. Receptacles that are part of a luminaire or appliance.
3. A single receptacle for a single appliance or a
duplex receptacle for two appliances where such
receptacles are located in spaces dedicated for the
appliances served and, under conditions of normal
use, the appliances are not easily moved from one
place to another. The appliances shall be cord-and-
plug-connected to such receptacles in accordance
with Section E3909.4.
SECTION E4003
FIXTURES
E4003.1 Energized parts. Luminaires, lampholders, and
lamps shall not have energized parts normally exposed to
contact.
E4003.2 Luminaires near combustible material. Lumi-
naires shall be installed so that combustible material will not
be subjected to temperatures in excess of 90°C (194°F).
E4003.3 Exposed conductive parts. The exposed metal
parts of luminaires shall be connected to an equipment
grounding conductor or shall be insulated from the equipment
grounding conductor and other conducting surfaces. Lamp tie
wires, mounting screws, clips and decorative bands on glass
spaced at least 1 V 2 inches (38 mm) from lamp terminals shall
not be required to be grounded.
E4003.4 Screw-shell type. Lampholders of the screw- shell
type shall be installed for use as lampholders only.
E4003.5 Recessed incandescent luminaires. Recessed
incandescent luminaires shall have thermal protection and
shall be listed as thermally protected.
Exceptions:
1 . Thermal protection shall not be required in recessed
luminaires listed for the purpose and installed in
poured concrete.
2. Thermal protection shall not be required in recessed
luminaires having design, construction, and thermal
performance characteristics equivalent to that of
thermally protected luminaires, and such luminaires
are identified as inherently protected.
E4003.6 Thermal protection. The ballast of a fluorescent
luminaire installed indoors shall have integral thermal protec-
tion. Replacement ballasts shall also have thermal protection
integral with the ballast. A simple reactance ballast in a fluo-
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
739
DEVICES AND LUMINAIRES
rescent luminaire with straight tubular lamps shall not be
required to be thermally protected.
E4003.7 High-intensity discharge luminaires. Recessed
high-intensity luminaires designed to be installed in wall or
ceiling cavities shall have thermal protection and be identi-
fied as thermally protected. Thermal protection shall not be
required in recessed high-intensity luminaires having design,
construction and thermal performance characteristics equiva-
lent to that of thermally protected luminaires, and such lumi-
naires are identified as inherently protected. Thermal
protection shall not be required in recessed high-intensity dis-
charge luminaires installed in and identified for use in poured
concrete. A recessed remote ballast for a high-intensity dis-
charge luminaire shall have thermal protection that is integral
with the ballast and shall be identified as thermally protected.
E4003.8 Metal halide lamp containment. Luminaires that
use a metal halide lamp other than a thick-glass parabolic
reflector lamp (PAR) shall be provided with a containment
barrier that encloses the lamp, or shall be provided with a
physical means that allows the use of only a lamp that is Type
O.
E4003.9 Wet or damp locations. Luminaires installed in wet
or damp locations shall be installed so that water cannot enter
or accumulate in wiring compartments, lampholders or other
electrical parts. All luminaires installed in wet locations shall
be marked SUITABLE FOR WET LOCATIONS. All lumi-
naires installed in damp locations shall be marked SUIT-
ABLE FOR WET LOCATIONS or SUITABLE FOR DAMP
LOCATIONS.
E4003.10 Lampholders in wet or damp locations. Lamp-
holders installed in wet locations shall be listed for use in wet
locations. Lampholders installed in damp locations shall be
listed for damp locations or shall be listed for wet locations.
E4003.ll Bathtub and shower areas. Cord-connected lumi-
naires, chain-, cable-, or cord-suspended-luminaires, lighting
track, pendants, and ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans shall not
have any parts located within a zone measured 3 feet (914
mm) horizontally and 8 feet (2438 mm) vertically from the
top of a bathtub rim or shower stall threshold. This zone is all
encompassing and includes the space directly over the tub or
shower. Luminaires within the actual outside dimension of
the bathtub or shower to a height of 8 feet (2438 mm) verti-
cally from the top of the bathtub rim or shower threshold
shall be marked for damp locations and where subject to
shower spray, shall be marked for wet locations.
E4003.12 Luminaires in clothes closets. For the purposes of
this section, storage space shall be defined as a volume
bounded by the sides and back closet walls and planes
extending from the closet floor vertically to a height of 6 feet
(1829 mm) or the highest clothes-hanging rod and parallel to
the walls at a horizontal distance of 24 inches (610 mm) from
the sides and back of the closet walls respectively, and con-
tinuing vertically to the closet ceiling parallel to the walls at a
horizontal distance of 1 2 inches (305 mm) or the width of the
shelf, whichever is greater. For a closet that permits access to
both sides of a hanging rod, the storage space shall include
the volume below the highest rod extending 12 inches (305
mm) on either side of the rod on a plane horizontal to the
floor extending the entire length of the rod (see Figure
E4003.12).
The types of luminaires installed in clothes closets shall be
limited to surface-mounted or recessed incandescent or LED
luminaires with completely enclosed light sources, surface-
mounted or recessed fluorescent luminaires, and surface-
mounted fluorescent or LED luminaires identified as suitable
for installation within the closet storage area. Incandescent
luminaires with open or partially enclosed lamps and pendant
luminaires or lamp-holders shall be prohibited. The minimum
clearance between luminaires installed in clothes closets and
the nearest point of a closet storage area shall be as follows:
1 . Surface-mounted incandescent or LED luminaires with
a completely enclosed light source shall be installed on
the wall above the door or on the ceiling, provided that
there is a minimum clearance of 12 inches (305 mm)
between the fixture and the nearest point of a storage
space.
2. Surface-mounted fluorescent luminaires shall be
installed on the wall above the door or on the ceiling,
12" OR
SHELF
WIDTH
12" OR
SHELF
WIDTH
ROD
HEIGHT
OR 6'
12" OR
SHELF
WIDTH
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, I foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE E4003.12
CLOSET STORAGE SPACE
740
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
DEVICES AND LUMINAIRES
provided that there is a minimum clearance of 6 inches
(152 mm).
3. Recessed incandescent luminaires or LED luminaires
with a completely enclosed light source shall be
installed in the wall or the ceiling provided that there is
a minimum clearance of 6 inches (152 mm).
4. Recessed fluorescent luminaires shall be installed in the
wall or on the ceiling provided that there is a minimum
clearance of 6 inches (152 mm) between the fixture and
the nearest point of a storage space.
5. Surface-mounted fluorescent or LED luminaires shall
be permitted to be installed within the closet storage
space where identified for this use.
E4003.13 Luminaire wiring — general. Wiring on or within
luminaires shall be neatly arranged and shall not be exposed
to physical damage. Excess wiring shall be avoided. Conduc-
tors shall be arranged so that they are not subjected to temper-
atures above those for which the conductors are rated.
E4003.13.1 Polarization of luminaires. Luminaires shall
be wired so that the screw shells of lampholders will be
connected to the same luminaire or circuit conductor or
terminal. The grounded conductor shall be connected to
the screw shell.
E4003.13.2 Luminaires as raceways. Luminaires shall
not be used as raceways for circuit conductors except
where such luminaires are listed and marked for use as a
raceway. Luminaires used as a raceway shall be indenti-
fied for through-wiring. Luminaires designed for end-to-
end connection to form a continuous assembly, and lumi-
naires connected together by recognized wiring methods,
shall not be required to be listed as a raceway where they
contain the conductors of one 2-wire branch circuit or one
multiwire branch circuit and such conductors supply the
connected luminaires. One additional 2-wire branch cir-
cuit that separately supplies one or more of the connected
luminaires shall also be permitted.
SECTION E4004
LUMINAIRE INSTALLATION
E4004.1 Outlet box covers. In a completed installation, each
outlet box shall be provided with a cover except where cov-
ered by means of a luminaire canopy, lampholder or device
with a faceplate.
E4004.2 Combustible material at outlet boxes. Combusti-
ble wall or ceiling finish exposed between the inside edge of
a luminaire canopy or pan and the outlet box to which the
luminaire connects shall be covered with a noncombustible
material.
E4004.3 Access. Luminaires shall be installed so that the
connections between the luminaire conductors and the circuit
conductors can be accessed without requiring the disconnec-
tion of any part of the wiring. Luminaires that are connected
by attachment plugs and receptacles meet the requirement of
this section.
E4004.4 Supports. Luminaires and lampholders shall be
securely supported. A luminaire that weighs more than 6
pounds (2.72 kg) or exceeds 16 inches (406 mm) in any
dimension shall not be supported by the screw shell of a lam-
pholder.
E4004.5 Means of support. Outlet boxes or fittings installed
as required by Sections E3905 and E3906 shall be permitted
to support luminaires.
E4004.6 Exposed components. Luminaires having exposed
ballasts, transformers, LED drivers or power supplies shall be
installed so that such ballasts, transformers, LED drivers or 1
power supplies are not in contact with combustible material I
unless listed for such condition. 1
E4004.7 Combustible low-density cellulose fiberboard.
Where a surface-mounted luminaire containing a ballast,
transformer, LED driver or power supply is installed on com- |
bustible low-density cellulose fiberboard, the luminaire shall
be marked for this purpose or it shall be spaced not less than
1 7 2 inches (38 mm) from the surface of the fiberboard. Where
such luminaires are partially or wholly recessed, the provi-
sions of Sections E4004.8 and E4004.9 shall apply.
E4004.8 Recessed luminaire clearance. A recessed lumi-
naire that is not identified for contact with insulation shall
have all recessed parts spaced at least 7 2 inch (12.7 mm) from
combustible materials. The points of support and the finish
trim parts at the opening in the ceiling, wall or other finished §
surface shall be permitted to be in contact with combustible
materials. A recessed luminaire that is identified for contact
with insulation, Type IC, shall be permitted to be in contact
with combustible materials at recessed parts, points of sup-
port, and portions passing through the building structure and
at finish trim parts at the opening in the ceiling or wall.
E4004.9 Recessed luminaire installation. Thermal insula-
tion shall not be installed above a recessed luminaire or
within 3 inches (76 mm) of the recessed luminaire' s enclo-
sure, wiring compartment, ballast, transformer, LED driver or 1
power supply except where such luminaire is identified for |
contact with insulation, Type IC.
SECTION E4005
TRACK LIGHTING
E4005.1 Installation. Lighting track shall be permanently
installed and permanently connected to a branch circuit hav-
ing a rating not more than that of the track.
E4005.2 Fittings. Fittings identified for use on lighting track
shall be designed specifically for the track on which they are
to be installed. Fittings shall be securely fastened to the track,
shall maintain polarization and connection to the equipment
grounding conductor, and shall be designed to be suspended
directly from the track. Only lighting track fittings shall be
installed on lighting track. Lighting track fittings shall not be
equipped with general-purpose receptacles.
E4005.3 Connected load. The connected load on lighting
track shall not exceed the rating of the track. The rating of the
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
741
DEVICES AND LUMINAIRES
branch circuit that supplies the track shall not exceed the rat-
ing of the track.
E4005.4 Prohibited locations. Lighting track shall not be
installed in the following locations:
1. Where likely to be subjected to physical damage.
2. In wet or damp locations.
3. Where subject, to corrosive vapors.
4. In storage battery rooms.
5. In hazardous (classified) locations.
6. Where concealed.
7. Where extended through walls or partitions.
8. Less than 5 feet (1524 mm) above the finished floor
except where protected from physical damage or the
track operates at less than 30 volts rms open-circuit
voltage.
9. Where prohibited by Section E4003. 1 1.
E4005.5 Fastening. Lighting track shall be securely mounted
so that each fastening will be suitable for supporting the max-
imum weight of luminaires that can be installed. Except
where identified for supports at greater intervals, a single sec-
tion 4 feet (1219 mm) or shorter in length shall have two sup-
ports and, where installed in a continuous row, each
individual section of not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) in
length shall have one additional support.
E4005.6 Grounding. Lighting track shall be grounded in
accordance with Chapter 39, and the track sections shall be
securely coupled to maintain continuity of the circuitry,
polarization and grounding throughout.
742 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 41
APPLIANCE INSTALLATIOI
SECTION E41 01
GENERAL
E4101.1 Scope. This section covers installation requirements
for appliances and fixed heating equipment.
E4101.2 Installation. Appliances and equipment shall be
installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation
instructions. Electrically heated appliances and equipment
shall be installed with the required clearances to combustible
materials.
E4101.3 Flexible cords. Cord-and-plug-connected appli-
ances shall use cords suitable for the environment and physi-
cal conditions likely to be encountered. Flexible cords shall
be used only where the appliance is listed to be connected
with a flexible cord. The cord shall be identified as suitable
for the purpose in the installation instructions of the appliance
manufacturer. Receptacles for cord-and-plug-connected
appliances shall be accessible and shall be located to avoid
physical damage to the flexible cord. Except for a listed
appliance marked to indicate that it is protected by a system
of double-insulation, the flexible cord supplying an appliance
shall terminate in a grounding-type attachment plug. A recep-
tacle for a cord-and-plug-connected range hood shall be sup-
plied by an individual branch circuit. Specific appliances
have additional requirements as specified in Table E4101.3
(see Section E3909).
TABLEE4101.3
FLEXIBLE CORD LENGTH
APPLIANCE
MINIMUM CORD
LENGTH (inches)
MAXIMUM CORD
LENGTH (inches)
Kitchen waste disposal
18
36
Built-in dishwasher
36
48
Trash compactor
36
48
Range hoods
18
36
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
E4101.4 Over-current protection. Each appliance shall be
protected against overcurrent in accordance with the rating of
the appliance and its listing.
E4101.4.1 Single nonmotor-operated appliance. The
overcurrent protection for a branch circuit that supplies a
single nonmotor-operated appliance shall not exceed that
marked on the appliance. Where the overcurrent protec-
tion rating is not marked and the appliance is rated at over
13.3 amperes, the overcurrent protection shall not exceed
150 percent of the appliance rated current. Where 1 50 per-
cent of the appliance rating does not correspond to a stan-
dard overcurrent device ampere rating, the next higher
standard rating shall be permitted. Where the overcurrent
protection rating is not marked and the appliance is rated
at 13.3 amperes or less, the overcurrent protection shall
not exceed 20 amperes.
E4101.5 Disconnecting means. Each appliance shall be pro-
vided with a means to disconnect all ungrounded supply con-
ductors. For fixed electric space-heating equipment, means
shall be provided to disconnect the heater and any motor con-
trollers) and supplementary overcurrent-protective devices.
Switches and circuit breakers used as a disconnecting means
shall be of the indicating type. Disconnecting means shall be
as set forth in Table E4101.5.
E4101.6 Support of ceiling-suspended paddle fans. Ceil-
ing-suspended fans (paddle) shall be supported independently
of an outlet box or by a listed outlet box or outlet box system
identified for the use and installed in accordance with Section
E3905.9.
E4101.7 Snow-melting and deiting equipment protection.
Outdoor receptacles that are not readily accessible and are
supplied from a dedicated branch circuit for electric snow-
melting or deicing equipment shall be permitted to be
installed without ground-fault circuit-interrupter protection
for personnel. However, ground-fault protection of equip-
ment shall be provided for fixed outdoor electric deicing and
snow-melting equipment.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
743
APPLIANCE INSTALLATION
TABLEE4101.5
DISCONNECTING MEANS
DESCRIPTION
ALLOWED DISCONNECTING MEANS
Permanently connected appliance rated at not over 300
volt-amperes or 7 8 horsepower.
Branch-circuit overcurrent device.
Permanently connected appliances rated in excess of 300 volt-
amperes.
Branch circuit breaker or switch located within sight of appliance or
such devices in any location that are capable of being locked in the
open position. The provision for locking or adding a lock to the dis-
connecting means shall be installed on or at the switch or circuit
breaker used as the disconnecting means and shall remain in place
with or without the lock installed.
Motor-operated appliances rated over V 8 horsepower.
For permanently connected motor-operated appliances with motors
rated over V 8 horsepower, the branch circuit switch or circuit breaker
shall be permitted to serve as the disconnecting means where the
switch or circuit breaker is within sight from the appliance. Where the
branch circuit switch is not located within sight from the appliance,
the disconnecting means shall be one of the following types: a listed
motor-circuit switch rated in horsepower, a listed molded case circuit
breaker, a listed molded case switch, a listed manual motor controller
additionally marked "Suitable as Motor Disconnect" where installed
between the final motor branch-circuit short-circuit protective device
and the motor. For stationary motors rated at 2 hp or less and 300
volts or less, the disconnecting means shall be permitted to be one of
the following devices:
1. A general-use switch having an ampere rating not less than
twice the full-load current rating of the motor.
2. On AC circuits, a general-use snap switch suitable only for use
on AC, not general-use AC-DC snap switches, where the
motor full-load current rating is not more than 80 percent of
the ampere rating of the switch.
3. A listed manual motor controller having a horsepower rating
not less than the rating of the motor and marked "Suitable as
Motor Disconnect".
The disconnecting means for motor circuits rated 600 volts, nomi-
nal, or less shall have an ampere rating not less than 1 15 percent of the
full-load current rating of the motor except that a listed unfused
motor-circuit switch having a horsepower rating not less than the
motor horsepower shall be permitted to have an ampere rating less
than 115 percent of the full-load current rating of the motor.
Exception: A unit switch with a marked-off position that is a part of
an appliance and disconnects all ungrounded conductors shall be
permitted as the disconnecting means and the switch or circuit
breaker serving as the other disconnecting means shall be permitted
to be out of sight from the appliance.
Appliances listed for cord-and-plug connection.
A separable connector or attachment plug and receptacle provided
with access.
(continued)
744
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPLIANCE INSTALLATION
TABLE E4101. 5— continued
DISCONNECTING MEANS
DESCRIPTION
ALLOWED DISCONNECTING MEANS
Permanently installed heating equipment with motors rated at not over
V 8 horsepower with supplementary overcurrent protection.
Disconnect, on the supply side of fuses, in sight from the supplemen-
tary overcurrent device, and in sight of the heating equipment or, in
any location, if capable of being locked in the open position.
Heating equipment containing motors rated over 7 8 horsepower with
supplementary overcurrent protection.
Disconnect permitted to serve as required disconnect for both the
heating equipment and the controller where, on the supply side of
fuses, and in sight from the supplementary overcurrent devices, if the
disconnecting means is also in sight from the controller, or is capable
of being locked off and simultaneously disconnects the heater, motor
controller(s) and supplementary overcurrent protective devices from
all ungrounded conductors. The provision for locking or adding a lock
to the disconnecting means shall be installed on or at the switch or cir-
cuit breaker used as the disconnecting means and shall remain in place
with or without the lock installed. The disconnecting means shall have
an ampere rating not less than 125 percent of the total load of the
motors and the heaters.
Heating equipment containing no motor rated over '/ 8 horsepower
without supplementary overcurrent protection.
Branch-circuit switch or circuit breaker where within sight from the
heating equipment or capable of being locked off and simultaneously
disconnects the heater, motor controller(s) and supplementary over-
current protective devices from all ungrounded conductors. The provi-
sion for locking or adding a lock to the disconnecting means shall be
installed on or at the switch or circuit breaker used as the disconnect-
ing means and shall remain in place with or without the lock installed.
The disconnecting means shall have an ampere rating not less than
125 percent of the total load of the motors and the heaters.
Heating equipment containing motors rated over V a horsepower with-
out supplementary overcurrent protection.
Disconnecting means in sight from motor controller or as provided for
heating equipment with motor rated over '/ 8 horsepower with supple-
mentary overcurrent protection and simultaneously disconnects the
heater, motor controller(s) and supplementary overcurrent protective
devices from all ungrounded conductors. The provision for locking or
adding a lock to the disconnecting means shall be installed on or at the
switch or circuit breaker used as the disconnecting means and shall
remain in place with or without the lock installed. The disconnecting
means shall have an ampere rating not less than 125 percent of the
total load of the motors and the heaters.
Air-conditioning condensing units and heat pump units.
A readily accessible disconnect within sight from unit as the only
allowable means."
Appliances and fixed heating equipment with unit switches having a
marked OFF position.
Unit switch where an additional individual switch or circuit breaker
serves as a redundant disconnecting means.
Thermostatically controlled fixed heating equipment.
Thermostats with a marked OFF position that directly open all
ungrounded conductors, which when manually placed in the OFF
position are designed so that the circuit cannot be energized automati-
cally and that are located within sight of the equipment controlled.
For SI: 1 horsepower = 0.746 kW.
a. The disconnecting means shall be permitted to be installed on or within the unit. It sha
so as to obscure the air-conditioning equipment nameplate(s).
; not be located on panels designed to allow access to the unit or located
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
745
746 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
CHAPTER 42
SWIMMING POOLS
SECTION E4201
GENERAL
E4201.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall apply to
the construction and installation of electric wiring and equip-
ment associated with all swimming pools, wading pools, dec-
orative pools, fountains, hot tubs and spas, and hydromassage
bathtubs, whether permanently installed or storable, and shall
apply to metallic auxiliary equipment, such as pumps, filters
and similar equipment. Sections E4202 through E4206 pro-
vide general rules for permanent pools, spas and hot tubs.
Section E4207 provides specific rules for storable pools. Sec-
tion E4208 provides specific rules for spas and hot tubs. Sec-
tion E4209 provides specific rules for hydromassage
bathtubs.
E4201.2 Definitions.
CORD-AND-PLUG-CONNECTED LIGHTING ASSEM-
BLY. A lighting assembly consisting of a cord-and-plug-con-
nected transformer and a luminaire intended for installation in
the wall of a spa, hot tub, or storable pool.
DRY-NICHE LUMINAIRE. A luminaire intended for
| installation in the floor or wall of a pool, spa or fountain in a
niche that is sealed against the entry of water.
FORMING SHELL. A structure designed to support a wet-
niche luminaire assembly and intended for mounting in a
pool or fountain structure.
FOUNTAIN. Fountains, ornamental pools, display pools,
and reflection pools. The definition does not include drinking
fountains.
HYDROMASSAGE BATHTUB. A permanently installed
bathtub equipped with a recirculating piping system, pump,
and associated equipment. It is designed so it can accept, cir-
culate and discharge water upon each use.
LOW VOLTAGE CONTACT LIMIT. A voltage not
exceeding the following values:
1.15 volts (RMS) for sinusoidal AC
2. 21.2 volts peak for nonsinusoidal AC
3. 30 volts for continuous DC
4. 1 2.4 volts peak for DC that is interrupted at a rate of 10
to 200 Hz
MAXIMUM WATER LEVEL. The highest level that water
can reach before it spills out.
NO-NICHE LUMINAIRE. A luminaire intended for instal-
lation above or below the water without a niche.
PACKAGED SPA OR HOT TUB EQUIPMENT
ASSEMBLY. A factory-fabricated unit consisting of water-
circulating, heating and control equipment mounted on a
common base, intended to operate a spa or hot tub. Equip-
ment may include pumps, air blowers, heaters, luminaires,
controls and sanitizer generators.
PERMANENTLY INSTALLED SWIMMING, WAD-
ING, IMMERSION AND THERAPEUTIC POOLS.
Those that are constructed in the ground or partially in the
ground, and all others capable of holding water with a depth
greater than 42 inches (1067 mm), and all pools installed
inside of a building, regardless of water depth, whether or not
served by electrical circuits of any nature.
POOL. Manufactured or field-constructed equipment
designed to contain water on a permanent or semipermanent
basis and used for swimming, wading, immersion, or thera-
peutic purposes.
POOL COVER, ELECTRICALLY OPERATED. Motor-
driven equipment designed to cover and uncover the water
surface of a pool by means of a flexible sheet or rigid frame.
SELF-CONTAINED SPA OR HOT TUB. A factory-fabri-
cated unit consisting of a spa or hot tub vessel with all water-
circulating, heating and control equipment integral to the
unit. Equipment may include pumps, air blowers, heaters,
luminaires, controls and sanitizer generators.
SPA OR HOT TUB. A hydromassage pool, or tub for recre-
ational or therapeutic use, not located in health care facilities,
designed for immersion of users, and usually having a filter,
heater, and motor-driven blower. They are installed indoors
or outdoors, on the ground or supporting structure, or in the
ground or supporting structure. Generally, a spa or hot tub is
not designed or intended to have its contents drained or dis-
charged after each use.
STORABLE SWIMMING OR WADING POOL. Those
that are constructed on or above the ground and are capable
of holding water with a maximum depth of 42 inches (1067
mm), or a pool with nonmetallic, molded polymeric walls or
inflatable fabric walls regardless of dimension.
THROUGH- WALL LIGHTING ASSEMBLY. A lighting
assembly intended for installation above grade, on or through
the wall of a pool, consisting of two interconnected groups of
components separated by the pool wall.
WET-NICHE LUMINAIRE. A luminaire intended for
installation in a forming shell mounted in a pool or fountain
structure where the luminaire will be completely surrounded
by water.
SECTION E4202
WIRING METHODS FOR POOLS, SPAS, HOT TUBS
AND HYDROMASSAGE BATHTUBS
E4202.1 General. Wiring methods used in conjunction with
permanently installed swimming pools, spas, hot tubs or
hydromassage bathtubs shall be installed in accordance with
Table E4202.1 and Chapter 38 except as otherwise stated in
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
747
SWIMMING POOLS
this section. Storable swimming pools shall comply with Sec-
tion E4207.
E4202.2 Flexible cords. Flexible cords used in conjunction
with a pool, spa, hot tub or hydromassage bathtub shall be
installed in accordance with the following:
1 . For other than underwater luminaires, fixed or station-
ary equipment shall be permitted to be connected with
a flexible cord to facilitate removal or disconnection
for maintenance or repair. For other than storable
pools, the flexible cord shall not exceed 3 feet (914
mm) in length. Cords that supply swimming pool
equipment shall have a copper equipment grounding
conductor not smaller than 12 AWG and shall termi-
nate in a grounding-type attachment plug.
2. Other than listed low-voltage lighting systems not
requiring grounding, wet-niche luminaires that are sup-
plied by a flexible cord or cable shall have all exposed
noncurrent-carrying metal parts grounded by an insu-
lated copper equipment grounding conductor that is an
integral part of the cord or cable. Such grounding con-
ductor shall be connected to a grounding terminal in the
supply junction box, transformer enclosure, or other
enclosure and shall be not smaller than the supply con-
ductors and not smaller than 16 AWG.
3. A listed packaged spa or hot tub installed outdoors that
is GFCI protected shall be permitted to be cord-and-
plug-connected provided that such cord does not
exceed 15 feet (4572 mm) in length.
4. A listed packaged spa or hot tub rated at 20 amperes or
less and installed indoors shall be permitted to be cord-
and-plug-connected to facilitate maintenance and
repair.
5. For other than underwater and storable pool lighting
luminaire, the requirements of Item 1 shall apply to any
TABLE E4202.1
ALLOWABLE APPLICATIONS FOR WIRING METHODS' bot,e
1, 9, h, I
WIRING LOCATION OR PURPOSE
(Application allowed where marked with an "A")
AC, FMC,
NM, SR, SE
EMT
ENT
IMC, BMC,
RNC
LFMC
LFNMC
UF
MC k
FLEX
CORD
Panelboard(s) that supply pool equipment:
from service equipment to panelboard
A b,e
SR not permitted
A c
A"
A
—
A
A e
A c
—
Wet-niche and no-niche luminaires: from
branch circuit OCPD to deck or junction
box
AC b only
A c
A"
A
—
A
—
A b
—
Wet-niche and no-niche luminaires: from
deck or junction box to forming shell
—
—
—
A"
—
A
—
—
A h
Dry niche: from branch circuit OCPD to
luminaires
AC" only
A c
A b
A
—
A
—
A b
—
Pool-associated motors: from branch cir-
cuit OCPD to motor
A b
A c
A b
A
A f
A 1 '
A b
A
A h
Packaged or self-contained outdoor spas
and hot tubs with underwater luminaire:
from branch circuit OCPD to spa or hot tub
AC" only
A c
A b
A
A s
A 8
—
A b
A"
Packaged or self-contained outdoor spas
and hot tubs without underwater luminaire:
from branch circuit OCPD to spa or hot tub
A b
A c
A"
A
A 8
A E
A b
A
A"
Indoor spas and hot tubs, hydromassage
bathtubs, and other pool, spa or hot tub
associated equipment: from branch circuit
OCPD to equipment
A b
A c
A b
A
A
A
A
A
A h
Connection at pool lighting transformers or
power supplies
AC" only A c
A b
A
A m.g
A g
—
A b
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. For all wiring methods, see Section E4205 for equipment grounding conductor requirements.
b. Limited to use within buildings.
c. Limited to use on or within buildings.
d. Metal conduit shall be constructed of brass or other approved corrosion-resistant metal.
e. Permitted only for existing installations in accordance with the exception to Section E4205.6.
f Limited to where necessary to employ flexible connections at or adjacent to a pool motor.
g. Sections installed external to spa or hot tub enclosure limited to individual lengths not to exceed 6 feet. Length not limited instde spa or hot tub enclosure.
h Flexible cord shall be installed in accordance with Section E4202.2.
i. Nonmetallic conduit shall be rigid polyvinyl chloride conduit Type PVC or reinforced thermosetting resin conduit Type RTRC.
j Aluminum conduits shall not be permitted in the pool area where subject to corrosion.
k. Where installed as direct burial cable or in wet locations, Type MC cable shall be listed and identified for the locatton.
I See Section E4202.3 for listed, double-insulated pool pump motors.
m. Limited to use in individual lengths not to exceed 6 feet. The total length of all individual runs of LFMC shall not exceed 10 feet.
748
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
SWIMMING POOLS
cord-equipped luminaire that is located within 16 feet
(4877 mm) radially from any point on the water sur-
face.
E4202.3 Double insulated pool pumps. A listed cord and
plug-connected pool pump incorporating an approved system
of double insulation that provides a means for grounding only
the internal and nonaccessible, noncurrent-carrying metal
parts of the pump shall be connected to any wiring method
recognized in Chapter 38 that is suitable for the location.
Where the bonding grid is connected to the equipment
grounding conductor of the motor circuit in accordance with
Section E4204.2, Item 6.1, the branch circuit wiring shall
comply with Sections E4202. 1 and E4205.5.
SECTION E4203
EQUIPMENT LOCATION AND CLEARANCES
E4203.1 Receptacle outlets. Receptacles outlets shall be
installed and located in accordance with Sections E4203.1.1
through E4203.1.5. Distances shall be measured as the short-
est path that an appliance supply cord connected to the recep-
tacle would follow without penetrating a floor, wall, ceiling,
doorway with hinged or sliding door, window opening, or
other effective permanent barrier.
E4203.1.1 Location. Receptacles that provide power for
water-pump motors or other loads directly related to the
circulation and sanitation system shall be permitted to be
located between 6 feet and 10 feet (1829 mm and 3048
mm) from the inside walls of pools and outdoor spas and
hot tubs, where the receptacle is single and of the locking
and grounding type and protected by ground-fault circuit
interrupters.
Other receptacles on the property shall be located not
less than 6 feet (1 829 mm) from the inside walls of pools
and outdoor spas and hot tubs.
E4203.1.2 Where required. At least one 125-volt, 15- or
20-ampere receptacle supplied by a general-purpose
branch circuit shall be located a minimum of 6 feet (1829
mm) from and not more than 20 feet (6096 mm) from the
inside wall of pools and outdoor spas and hot tubs. This
receptacle shall be located not more than 6 feet, 6 inches
(1981 mm) above the floor, platform or grade level serv-
ing the pool, spa or hot tub.
E4203.1.3 GFCI protection. All 15- and 20-ampere, sin-
gle phase, 125-volt receptacles located within 20 feet
(6096 mm) of the inside walls of pools and outdoor spas
and hot tubs shall be protected by a ground-fault circuit-
interrupter. Outlets supplying pool pump motors from
branch circuits with short-circuit and ground-fault protec-
tion rated 15 or 20 amperes, 125 volts through 240 volts,
single phase, whether by receptacle or direct connection,
shall be provided with ground-fault circuit-interrupter pro-
tection for personnel.
E4203.1.4 Indoor locations. Receptacles shall be located
not less than 6 feet (1829 mm) from the inside walls of
indoor spas and hot tubs. A minimum of one 125-volt
receptacle shall be located between 6 feet (1829 mm) and
10 feet (3048 mm) from the inside walls of indoor spas or
hot tubs.
E4203.1.5 Indoor GFCI protection. All 125-volt recep-
tacles rated 30 amperes or less and located within 10 feet
(3048 mm) of the inside walls of spas and hot tubs
installed indoors, shall be protected by ground-fault cir-
cuit-interrupters.
E4203.2 Switching devices. Switching devices shall be
located not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally from the
inside walls of pools, spas and hot tubs except where sepa-
rated from the pool, spa or hot tub by a solid fence, wall, or
other permanent barrier or the switches are listed for use
within 5 feet (1524 mm). Switching devices located in a room
or area containing a hydromassage bathtub shall be located in
accordance with the general requirements of this code.
E4203.3 Disconnecting means. One or more means to
simultaneously disconnect all ungrounded conductors for all
utilization equipment, other than lighting, shall be provided.
Each of such means shall be readily accessible and within
sight from the equipment it serves and shall be located at least
5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally from the inside walls of a pool,
spa, or hot tub unless separated from the open water by a per-
manently installed barrier that provides a 5-foot (1524 mm)
or greater reach path. This horizontal distance shall be mea-
sured from the water's edge along the shortest path required
to reach the disconnect.
E4203.4 Luminaires and ceiling fans. Lighting outlets,
luminaires, and ceiling-suspended paddle fans shall be
installed and located in accordance with Sections E4203.4.1
through E4203. 4.5.
E4203.4.1 Outdoor location. In outdoor pool, outdoor
spas and outdoor hot tubs areas, luminaires, lighting out-
lets, and ceiling-suspended paddle fans shall not be
installed over the pool or over the area extending 5 feet
(1524 mm) horizontally from the inside walls of a pool
except where no part of the luminaire or ceiling-suspended
paddle fan is less than 12 feet (3658 mm) above the maxi-
mum water level.
E4203.4.2 Indoor locations. In indoor pool areas, the lim-
itations of Section E4203.4. 1 shall apply except where the
luminaires, lighting outlets and ceiling-suspended paddle
fans comply with all of the following conditions:
1. The luminaires are of a totally enclosed type;
2. A ground-fault circuit interrupter is installed in the
branch circuit supplying the luminaires or ceiling-
suspended (paddle) fans; and
3. The distance from the bottom of the luminaire or
ceiling-suspended (paddle) fan to the maximum
water level is not less than 7 feet, 6 inches (2286
mm).
E4203.4.3 Existing lighting outlets and luminaires.
Existing lighting outlets and luminaires that are located
within 5 feet (1524 mm) horizontally from the inside walls
of pools and outdoor spas and hot tubs shall be permitted
to be located not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) vertically
above the maximum water level, provided that such lumi-
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
749
SWIMMING POOLS
naires and outlets are rigidly attached to the existing struc-
ture and are protected by a ground-fault circuit-interrupter.
E4203.4.4 Indoor spas and hot tubs.
1. Luminaires, lighting outlets, and ceiling-suspended
paddle fans located over the spa or hot tub or within
5 feet (1524 mm) from the inside walls of the spa or
hot tub shall be a minimum of 7 feet, 6 inches (2286
mm) above the maximum water level and shall be
protected by a ground-fault circuit interrupter.
Luminaires, lighting outlets, and ceiling-sus-
pended paddle fans that are located 12 feet (3658
mm) or more above the maximum water level shall
not require ground-fault circuit interrupter protec-
tion.
2. Luminaires protected by a ground-fault circuit inter-
rupter and complying with Item 2.1 or 2.2 shall be
permitted to be installed less than 7 feet, 6 inches
(2286 mm) over a spa or hot tub.
2.1. Recessed luminaires shall have a glass or
plastic lens and nonmetallic or electrically
isolated metal trim, and shall be suitable for
use in damp locations.
2.2. Surface-mounted luminaires shall have a
glass or plastic globe and a nonmetallic body
or a metallic body isolated from contact.
Such luminaires shall be suitable for use in
damp locations.
E4203.4.5 GFCI protection in adjacent areas. Lumi-
naires and outlets that are installed in the area extending
between 5 feet (1524 mm) and 10 feet (3048 mm) from the
inside walls of pools and outdoor spas and hot tubs shall
be protected by ground-fault circuit-interrupters except
where such fixtures and outlets are installed not less than 5
feet (1524 mm) above the maximum water level and are
rigidly attached to the structure.
E4203.5 Other outlets. Other outlets such as for remote con-
trol, signaling, fire alarm and communications shall be not
less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from the inside walls of the pool.
Measurements shall be determined in accordance with Sec-
tion E4203.1.
E4203.6 Overhead conductor clearances. Except where
installed with the clearances specified in Table E4203.5, the
following parts of pools and outdoor spas and hot tubs shall
not be placed under existing service-drop conductors or any
other open overhead wiring; nor shall such wiring be installed
above the following:
1 . Pools and the areas extending 10 feet (3048 mm) hori-
zontally from the inside of the walls of the pool;
2. Diving structures; or
3. Observation stands, towers, and platforms.
Overhead conductors of network-powered broadband
communications systems shall comply with the provisions in
Table E4203.5 for conductors operating at to 750 volts to
ground.
Utility-owned, -operated and -maintained communications
conductors, community antenna system coaxial cables and
the supporting messengers shall be permitted at a height of
not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) above swimming and wading
pools, diving structures, and observation stands, towers, and
platforms.
E4203.7 Underground wiring. Underground wiring shall
not be installed under or within the area extending 5 feet
(1524 mm) horizontally from the inside walls of pools and
outdoor hot tubs and spas except where the wiring is installed
to supply pool, spa or hot tub equipment or where space limi-
tations prevent wiring from being routed 5 feet (1524 mm) or
more horizontally from the inside walls. Where installed
within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the inside walls, the wiring
method shall be a complete raceway system of rigid metal
conduit, intermediate metal conduit or a nonmetallic raceway
system. Metal conduit shall be corrosion resistant and suit-
able for the location. The minimum cover depth shall be in
accordance with Table E4203.7.
SECTION E4204
BONDING
E4204.1 Performance. The equipotential bonding required
by this section shall be installed to reduce voltage gradients in
the pool area as prescribed.
E4204.2 Bonded parts. The parts of pools, spas, and hot tubs
specified in Items 1 through 7 shall be bonded together using
insulated, covered or bare solid copper conductors not
smaller than 8 AWG or using rigid metal conduit of brass or
other identified corrosion-resistant metal. An 8 AWG or
larger solid copper bonding conductor provided to reduce
voltage gradients in the pool, spa, or hot tub area shall not be
required to be extended or attached to remote panelboards,
TABLE E4203.5
OVERHEAD CONDUCTOR CLEARANCES
INSULATED SUPPLY OR SERVICE DROP CABLES, 0-750
VOLTS TO GROUND, SUPPORTED ON AND CABLED
TOGETHER WITH AN EFFECTIVELY GROUNDED BARE
MESSENGER OR EFFECTIVELY GROUNDED NEUTRAL
CONDUCTOR (feet)
ALL OTHER SUPPLY OR
SERVICE DROP CONDUCTORS (feet)
Voltage to ground
0-15 kV
Greater than 15 to 50 kV
A. Clearance in any direction to the water
level, edge of water surface, base of
diving platform, or permanently
anchored raft
22.5
25
27
B. Clearance in any direction to the
diving platform
14.5
17
18
For SI: 1 foot = 304.S mm.
750
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
SWIMMING POOLS
service equipment, or electrodes. Connections shall be made
by exothermic welding, by listed pressure connectors or
clamps that are labeled as being suitable for the purpose and
that are made of stainless steel, brass, copper or copper alloy,
machine screw-type fasteners that engage not less than two
threads or are secured with a nut, thread-forming machine
screws that engage not less than two-threads, or terminal
bars. Connection devices or fittings that depend solely on sol-
der shall not be used. Sheet metal screws shall not be used to
connect bonding conductors or connection devices:
1. Conductive pool shells. Bonding to conductive pool
shells shall be provided as specified in Item 1.1 or 1.2.
Poured concrete, pneumatically applied or sprayed con-
crete, and concrete block with painted or plastered coat-
ings shall be considered to be conductive materials
because of their water permeability and porosity. Vinyl
liners and fiberglass composite shells shall be consid-
ered to be nonconductive materials.
1.1. Structural reinforcing steel. Unencapsulated
structural reinforcing steel shall be bonded
together by steel tie wires or the equivalent.
Where structural reinforcing steel is encapsu-
lated in a nonconductive compound, a copper
conductor grid shall be installed in accordance
with Item 1.2.
1.2. Copper conductor grid. A copper conductor grid
shall be provided and shall comply with Items
1.2.1 through 1.2.4:
1.2.1. It shall be constructed of minimum 8
AWG bare solid copper conductors
bonded to each other at all points of
crossing.
1.2.2. It shall conform to the contour of the
pool and the pool deck.
1.2.3. It shall be arranged in a 12-inch (305
mm) by 12-inch (305 mm) network of
conductors in a uniformly spaced per-
pendicular grid pattern with a tolerance
of 4 inches (102 mm).
1 .2.4. It shall be secured within or under the
pool not more than 6 inches (152 mm)
from the outer contour of the pool shell.
2. Perimeter surfaces. The perimeter surface shall extend
for 3 feet (914 mm) horizontally beyond the inside
walls of the pool and shall include unpaved surfaces,
poured concrete surfaces and other types of paving.
Perimeter surfaces that extend less than 3 feet (914
mm) beyond the inside wall of the pool and that are
separated from the pool by a permanent wall or build-
ing 5 feet (1524 mm) or more in height shall require
equipotential bonding on the pool side of the permanent
wall or building. Bonding to perimeter surfaces shall be
provided as specified in Item 2.1 or 2.2 and shall be
attached to the pool, spa, or hot tub reinforcing steel or
copper conductor grid at a minimum of four points uni-
formly spaced around the perimeter of the pool, spa, or
hot tub. For nonconductive pool shells, bonding at four
points shall not be required.
Exception: The equipotential bonding require-
ments for perimeter surfaces shall not apply to a
listed self-contained spa or hot tub located indoors
and installed above a finished floor.
2.1. Structural reinforcing steel. Structural reinforc-
ing steel shall be bonded in accordance with
Item 1.1.
2.2. Alternate means. Where structural reinforcing
steel is not available or is encapsulated in a non-
conductive compound, a copper conductor(s)
shall be used in accordance with Items 2.2.1
through 2.2.5:
2.2.1. At least one minimum 8 AWG bare
solid copper conductor shall be pro-
vided.
2.2.2. The conductors shall follow the contour
of the perimeter surface.
2.2.3. Splices shall be listed.
2.2.4. The required conductor shall be 18 to
24 inches (457 to 610 mm) from the
inside walls of the pool.
2.2.5. The required conductor shall be secured
within or under the perimeter surface 4
to 6 inches (102 mm to 152 mm) below
the subgrade.
Metallic components. All metallic parts of the pool
structure, including reinforcing metal not addressed in
Item 1.1, shall be bonded. Where reinforcing steel is
encapsulated with a nonconductive compound, the rein-
forcing steel shall not be required to be bonded.
TABLE E4203.7
MINIMUM BURIAL DEPTHS
WIRING METHOD
UNDERGROUND WIRING (inches)
Rigid metal conduit
6
Intermediate metal conduit
6
Nonmetallic raceways listed for direct burial and under concrete exterior slab not less than 4 inches in
thickness and extending not less than 6 inches (162 mm) beyond the underground installation
6
Nonmetallic raceways listed for direct burial without concrete encasement
18
Other approved raceways 11
18
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
a. Raceways approved for burial only where concrete-encased shall require a concrete envelope not less than 2 inches in thickness.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
751
SWIMMING POOLS
4. Underwater lighting. All metal forming shells and
mounting brackets of no-niche luminaires shall be
bonded.
Exception: Listed low-voltage lighting systems
with nonmetallic forming shells shall not require
bonding.
5. Metal fittings. All metal fittings within or attached to
the pool structure shall be bonded. Isolated parts that
are not over 4 inches (102 mm) in any dimension and
do not penetrate into the pool structure more than 1
inch (25.4 mm) shall not require bonding.
6. Electrical equipment. Metal parts of electrical equip-
ment associated with the pool water circulating system,
including pump motors and metal parts of equipment
associated with pool covers, including electric motors,
shall be bonded.
Exception: Metal parts of listed equipment incorpo-
rating an approved system of double insulation shall
not be bonded.
6.1. Double-insulated water pump motors. Where a
double-insulated water pump motor is installed
under the provisions of this item, a solid 8
AWG copper conductor of sufficient length to
make a bonding connection to a replacement
motor shall be extended from the bonding grid
to an accessible point in the vicinity of the pool
pump motor. Where there is no connection
between the swimming pool bonding grid and
the equipment grounding system for the prem-
ises, this bonding conductor shall be connected
to the equipment grounding conductor of the
motor circuit.
6.2. Pool water heaters. For pool water heaters rated
at more than 50 amperes and having specific
instructions regarding bonding and grounding,
only those parts designated to be bonded shall
be bonded and only those parts designated to be
grounded shall be grounded.
7. All fixed metal parts including, but not limited to,
metal- sheathed cables and raceways, metal piping,
metal awnings, metal fences and metal door and win-
dow frames.
Exceptions:
1 . Those separated from the pool by a permanent
barrier that prevents contact by a person shall
not be required to be bonded.
2. Those greater than 5 feet (1524 mm) horizon-
tally from the inside walls of the pool shall not
be required to be bonded.
3. Those greater than 12 feet (3658 mm) mea-
sured vertically above the maximum water
level of the pool, or as measured vertically
above any observation stands, towers, or plat-
forms, or any diving structures, shall not be
required to be bonded.
E4204.3 Pool water. The pool water shall be intentionally
bonded by means of a conductive surface area not less than 9
square inches (5806 mm 2 ) installed in contact with the pool
water. This bond shall be permitted to consist of parts that are
required to be bonded in Section E4204.2.
E4204.4 Bonding of outdoor hot tubs and spas. Outdoor
hot tubs and spas shall comply with the bonding requirements
of Sections E4204.1 through E4204.3. Bonding by metal-to-
metal mounting on a common frame or base shall be permit-
ted. The metal bands or hoops used to secure wooden staves
shall not be required to be bonded as required in Section
E4204.2.
E4204.5 Bonding of indoor hot tubs and spas. The follow-
ing parts of indoor hot tubs and spas shall be bonded together:
1. All metal fittings within or attached to the hot tub or
spa structure.
2. Metal parts of electrical equipment associated with the
hot tub or spa water circulating system, including pump
motors unless part of a listed self-contained spa or hot
tub.
3. Metal raceway and metal piping that are within 5 feet
(1524 mm) of the inside walls of the hot tub or spa and
that are not separated from the spa or hot tub by a per-
manent barrier.
4. All metal surfaces that are within 5 feet (1524 mm) of
the inside walls of the hot tub or spa and that are not
separated from the hot tub or spa area by a permanent
barrier.
Exception: Small conductive surfaces not likely to
become energized, such as air and water jets and
drain fittings, where not connected to metallic pip-
ing, towel bars, mirror frames, and similar nonelec-
trical equipment, shall not be required to be bonded.
5. Electrical devices and controls that are not associated
with the hot tubs or spas and that are located less than 5
feet (1524 mm) from such units.
E4204.5.1 Methods. All metal parts associated with the
hot tub or spa shall be bonded by any of the following
methods:
1. The interconnection of threaded metal piping and
fittings.
2. Metal-to-metal mounting on a common frame or
base
3. The provision of an insulated, covered or bare solid
copper bonding jumper not smaller than 8 AWG .It
shall not be the intent to require that the 8 AWG or
larger solid copper bonding conductor be extended
or attached to any remote panelboard, service equip-
ment, or any electrode, but only that it shall be
employed to eliminate voltage gradients in the hot
tub or spa area as prescribed.
E4204.5.2 Connections. Connections shall be made by
exothermic welding or by listed pressure connectors or
clamps that are labeled as being suitable for the purpose
and that are made of stainless steel, brass, copper or cop-
per alloy. Connection devices or fittings that depend solely
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on solder shall not be used. Sheet metal screws shall not be
used to connect bonding conductors or connection
devices.
SECTION E4205
GROUNDING
E4205.1 Equipment to be grounded. The following equip-
ment shall be grounded:
1 . Through-wall lighting assemblies and underwater lumi-
naires other than those low-voltage lighting products
listed for the application without a grounding conduc-
tor.
2. All electrical equipment located within 5 feet (1524
mm) of the inside wall of the pool, spa or hot tub.
3. All electrical equipment associated with the recirculat-
ing system of the pool, spa or hot tub.
4. Junction boxes.
| 5. Transformer and power supply enclosures.
6. Ground-fault circuit-interrupters.
7. Panelboards that are not part of the service equipment
and that supply any electrical equipment associated
with the pool, spa or hot tub.
IE4205.2 Luminaires and related equipment. Other than
listed low-voltage luminaires not requiring grounding, all
through-wall lighting assemblies, wet-niche, dry-niche, or
no-niche luminaires shall be connected to an insulated copper
equipment grounding conductor sized in accordance with
Table E3908.12 but not smaller than 12 AWG. The equip-
ment grounding conductor between the wiring chamber of the
secondary winding of a transformer and a junction box shall
be sized in accordance with the overcurrent device in such
circuit. The junction box, transformer enclosure, or other
enclosure in the supply circuit to a wet-niche or no-niche
luminaire and the field-wiring chamber of a dry-niche lumi-
naire shall be grounded to the equipment grounding terminal
of the panelboard. The equipment grounding terminal shall be
directly connected to the panelboard enclosure. The equip-
ment grounding conductor shall be installed without joint or
splice.
Exceptions:
1 . Where more than one underwater luminaire is sup-
plied by the same branch circuit, the equipment
grounding conductor, installed between the junction
boxes, transformer enclosures, or other enclosures in
the supply circuit to wet-niche luminaires, or
between the field-wiring compartments of dry-niche
luminaires, shall be permitted to be terminated on
grounding terminals.
2. Where an underwater luminaire is supplied from a
transformer, ground-fault circuit-interrupter, clock-
operated switch, or a manual snap switch that is
located between the panelboard and a junction box
connected to the conduit that extends directly to the
underwater luminaire, the equipment grounding
conductor shall be permitted to terminate on ground-
ing terminals on the transformer, ground-fault cir-
cuit-interrupter, clock-operated switch enclosure, or
an outlet box used to enclose a snap switch.
E4205.3 Nonmetallic conduit. Where a nonmetallic conduit
is installed between a forming shell and a junction box, trans-
former enclosure, or other enclosure, a 8 AWG insulated cop-
per bonding jumper shall be installed in this conduit except
where a listed low-voltage lighting system not requiring
grounding is used. The bonding jumper shall be terminated in
the forming shell, junction box or transformer enclosure, or
ground-fault circuit-interrupter enclosure. The termination of
the 8 AWG bonding jumper in the forming shell shall be cov-
ered with, or encapsulated in, a listed potting compound to
protect such connection from the possible deteriorating effect
of pool water.
E4205.4 Flexible cords. Other than listed low-voltage light- I
ing systems not requiring grounding, wet-niche luminaires |
that are supplied by a flexible cord or cable shall have all
exposed noncurrent-carrying metal parts grounded by an
insulated copper equipment grounding conductor that is an
integral part of the cord or cable. This grounding conductor
shall be connected to a grounding terminal in the supply junc-
tion box, transformer enclosure, or other enclosure. The
grounding conductor shall not be smaller than the supply con-
ductors and not smaller than 16 AWG.
E4205.5 Motors. Pool-associated motors shall be connected
to an insulated copper equipment grounding conductor sized
in accordance with Table E3908.12, but not smaller than 12
AWG. Where the branch circuit supplying the motor is
installed in the interior of a one-family dwelling or in the
interior of accessory buildings associated with a one-family
dwelling, using a cable wiring method permitted by Table
E4202.1, an uninsulated equipment grounding conductor
shall be permitted provided that it is enclosed within the outer
sheath of the cable assembly.
E4205.6 Feeders. An equipment grounding conductor shall
be installed with the feeder conductors between the ground-
ing terminal of the pool equipment panelboard and the
grounding terminal of the applicable service equipment or
source of a separately derived system. The equipment
grounding conductor shall be insulated, shall be sized in
accordance with Table E3908.12. and shall be not smaller
than 12 AWG.
Exception: An existing feeder between an existing remote
panelboard and service equipment shall be permitted to
run in flexible metal conduit or an approved cable assem-
bly that includes an equipment grounding conductor
within its outer sheath. The equipment grounding conduc-
tor shall not be connected to the grounded conductor in the
remote panelboard.
E4205.6.1 Separate buildings. A feeder to a separate
building or structure shall be permitted to supply swim-
ming pool equipment branch circuits, or feeders supplying
swimming pool equipment branch circuits, provided that
the grounding arrangements in the separate building meet
the requirements of Section E3607.3. Where installed in
other than existing feeders covered in the exception to
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Section E4205.6, a separate equipment grounding conduc-
tor shall be an insulated conductor.
E4205.7 Cord-connected equipment. Where fixed or sta-
tionary equipment is connected with a flexible cord to facili-
tate removal or disconnection for maintenance, repair, or
storage, as provided in Section E4202.2, the equipment
grounding conductors shall be connected to a fixed metal part
of the assembly. The removable part shall be mounted on or
bonded to the fixed metal part.
E4205.8 Other equipment. Other electrical equipment shall
be grounded in accordance with Section E3908.
SECTION E4206
EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION
E4206.1 Transformers and power supplies. Transformers
and power supplies used for the supply of underwater lumi-
naires, together with the transformer or power supply enclo-
sure, shall be listed for swimming pool and spa use. The
transformer or power supply shall incorporate either a trans-
former of the isolated-winding type with an ungrounded sec-
ondary that has a grounded metal barrier between the primary
I and secondary windings, or a transformer that incorporates an
approved system of double insulation between the primary
and secondary windings.
E4206.2 Ground-fault circuit-interrupters. Ground-fault
circuit-interrupters shall be self-contained units, circuit-
breaker types, receptacle types or other approved types.
E4206.3 Wiring on load side of ground-fault circuit-inter-
rupters and transformers. For other than grounding con-
ductors, conductors installed on the load side of a ground-
fault circuit-interrupter or transformer used to comply with
the provisions of Section E4206.4, shall not occupy race-
ways, boxes, or enclosures containing other conductors
except where the other conductors are protected by ground-
fault circuit interrupters or are grounding conductors. Supply
conductors to a feed-through type ground-fault circuit inter-
rupter shall be permitted in the same enclosure. Ground-fault
circuit interrupters shall be permitted in a panelboard that
contains circuits protected by other than ground-fault circuit
interrupters.
E4206.4 Underwater luminaires. The design of an under-
water luminaire supplied from a branch circuit either directly
| or by way of a transformer or power supply meeting the
requirements of Section E4206.1, shall be such that, where
the fixture is properly installed without a ground-fault circuit-
interrupter, there is no shock hazard with any likely combina-
tion of fault conditions during normal use (not relamping). In
addition, a ground-fault circuit-interrupter shall be installed
in the branch circuit supplying luminaires operating at more
| than the low-voltage contact limit, such that there is no shock
hazard during relamping. The installation of the ground-fault
circuit-interrupter shall be such that there is no shock hazard
with any likely fault-condition combination that involves a
person in a conductive path from any ungrounded part of the
branch circuit or the luminaire to ground. Compliance with
this requirement shall be obtained by the use of a listed
underwater luminaire and by installation of a listed ground-
fault circuit-interrupter in the branch circuit or a listed trans- I
former or power supply for luminaires operating at more than I
the low-voltage contact limit. Luminaires that depend on sub- |
mersion for safe operation shall be inherently protected
against the hazards of overheating when not submerged.
E4206.4.1 Maximum voltage. Luminaires shall not be
installed for operation on supply circuits over 150 volts
between conductors.
E4206.4.2 Luminaire location. Luminaires mounted in
walls shall be installed with the top of the fixture lens not
less than 18 inches (457 mm) below the normal water
level of the pool, except where the luminaire is listed and
identified for use at a depth of not less than 4 inches (102
mm) below the normal water level of the pool. A lumi-
naire facing upward shall have the lens adequately
guarded to prevent contact by any person or shall be listed
for use without a guard.
E4206.5 Wet-niche luminaires. Forming shells shall be
installed for the mounting of all wet-niche underwater lumi-
naires and shall be equipped with provisions for conduit
entries. Conduit shall extend from the forming shell to a suit-
able junction box or other enclosure located as provided in
Section E4206.9. Metal parts of the luminaire and forming
shell in contact with the pool water shall be of brass or other
approved corrosion-resistant metal.
The end of flexible-cord jackets and flexible-cord conduc-
tor terminations within a luminaire shall be covered with, or
encapsulated in, a suitable potting compound to prevent the
entry of water into the luminaire through the cord or its con-
ductors. If present, the grounding connection within a lumi- |
naire shall be similarly treated to protect such connection
from the deteriorating effect of pool water in the event of
water entry into the luminaire.
Luminaires shall be bonded to and secured to the forming
shell by a positive locking device that ensures a low-resis-
tance contact and requires a tool to remove the luminaire
from the forming shell.
E4206.5.1 Servicing. All wet-niche luminaires shall be
removable from the water for inspection, relamping, or
other maintenance. The forming shell location and length
of cord in the forming shell shall permit personnel to place
the removed luminaire on the deck or other dry location
for such maintenance. The luminaire maintenance location
shall be accessible without entering or going into the pool
water.
E4206.6 Dry-niche luminaires. Dry-niche luminaires shall
have provisions for drainage of water. Other than listed low- g
voltage luminaires not requiring grounding, a dry-niche lumi- 1
naire shall have means for accommodating one equipment j
grounding conductor for each conduit entry. Junction boxes
shall not be required but, if used, shall not be required to be
elevated or located as specified in Section E4206.9 if the
luminaire is specifically identified for the purpose.
E4206.7 No-niche luminaires. No-niche luminaires shall be
listed for the purpose and shall be installed in accordance
with the requirements of Section E4206.5. Where connection
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to a forming shell is specified, the connection shall be to the
mounting bracket.
E4206.8 Through-wall lighting assembly. A through-wall
lighting assembly shall be equipped with a threaded entry or
hub, or a nonmetallic hub, for the purpose of accommodating
the termination of the supply conduit. A through-wall lighting
assembly shall meet the construction requirements of Section
E4205.4 and be installed in accordance with the requirements
of Section E4206.5 Where connection to a forming shell is
specified, the connection shall be to the conduit termination
point.
E4206.9 Junction boxes and enclosures for transformers
or ground-fault circuit interrupters. Junction boxes for
underwater luminaires and enclosures for transformers and
ground-fault circuit-interrupters that supply underwater lumi-
naires shall comply with the following:
E4206.9.1 Junction boxes. A junction box connected to a
conduit that extends directly to a forming shell or mount-
ing bracket of a no-niche luminaire shall be:
1 . Listed as a swimming pool junction box;
2. Equipped with threaded entries or hubs or a nonme-
tallic hub;
3. Constructed of copper, brass, suitable plastic, or
other approved corrosion-resistant material;
4. Provided with electrical continuity between every
connected metal conduit and the grounding termi-
nals by means of copper, brass, or other approved
corrosion-resistant metal that is integral with the
box; and
5. Located not less than 4 inches (102 mm), measured
from the inside of the bottom of the box, above the
ground level, or pool deck, or not less than 8 inches
(203 mm) above the maximum pool water level,
whichever provides the greatest elevation, and shall
be located not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) from the
inside wall of the pool, unless separated from the
pool by a solid fence, wall or other permanent bar-
rier. Where used on a lighting system operating at
the low-voltage contact limit or less, a flush deck
box shall be permitted provided that an approved
potting compound is used to fill the box to prevent
the entrance of moisture; and the flush deck box is
located not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) from the
inside wall of the pool.
E4206.9.2 Other enclosures. An enclosure for a trans-
former, ground-fault circuit-interrupter or a similar device
connected to a conduit that extends directly to a forming
shell or mounting bracket of a no-niche luminaire shall be:
1. Listed and labeled for the purpose, comprised of
copper, brass, suitable plastic, or other approved
corrosion-resistant material;
2. Equipped with threaded entries or hubs or a nonme-
tallic hub;
3. Provided with an approved seal, such as duct seal at
the conduit connection, that prevents circulation of
air between the conduit and the enclosures;
4. Provided with electrical continuity between every
connected metal conduit and the grounding termi-
nals by means of copper, brass or other approved
corrosion-resistant metal that is integral with the
enclosures; and
5. Located not less than 4 inches (102 mm), measured
from the inside bottom of the enclosure, above the
ground level or pool deck, or not less than 8 inches
(203 mm) above the maximum pool water level,
whichever provides the greater elevation, and shall
be located not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) from the
inside wall of the pool, except where separated from
the pool by a solid fence, wall or other permanent
barrier.
E4206.9.3 Protection of junction boxes and enclosures.
Junction boxes and enclosures mounted above the grade of
the finished walkway around the pool shall not be located
in the walkway unless afforded additional protection, such
as by location under diving boards or adjacent to fixed
structures.
E4206.9.4 Grounding terminals. Junction boxes, trans-
former and power supply enclosures, and ground-fault cir- [
cuit-interrupter enclosures connected to a conduit that
extends directly to a forming shell or mounting bracket of
a no-niche luminaire shall be provided with grounding ter-
minals in a quantity not less than the number of conduit
entries plus one.
E4206.9.5 Strain relief. The termination of a flexible cord
of an underwater luminaire within a junction box, trans-
former or power supply enclosure, ground-fault circuit- j
interrupter, or other enclosure shall be provided with a
strain relief.
E4206.10 Underwater audio equipment. Underwater audio
equipment shall be identified for the purpose.
E4206. 1(1.1 Speakers. Each speaker shall be mounted in
an approved metal forming shell, the front of which is
enclosed by a captive metal screen, or equivalent, that is
bonded to and secured to the forming shell by a positive
locking device that ensures a low-resistance contact and
requires a tool to open for installation or servicing of the
speaker. The forming shell shall be installed in a recess in
the wall or floor of the pool.
E4206.10.2 Wiring methods. Rigid metal conduit of
brass or other identified corrosion-resistant metal, rigid
polyvinyl chloride conduit, rigid thermosetting resin con- 1
duit or liquid-tight flexible nonmetallic conduit (LFNC-B) f
shall extend from the forming shell to a suitable junction
box or other enclosure as provided in Section E4206.9.
Where rigid nonmetallic conduit or liquid-tight flexible
nonmetallic conduit is used, an 8 AWG solid or stranded
insulated copper bonding jumper shall be installed in this
conduit with provisions for terminating in the forming
shell and the junction box. The termination of the 8 AWG
bonding jumper in the forming shell shall be covered with,
or encapsulated in, a suitable potting compound to protect
such connection from the possible deteriorating effect of
pool water.
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E4206.10.3 Forming shell and metal screen. The form-
ing shell and metal screen shall be of brass or other
approved corrosion-resistant metal. All forming shells
shall include provisions for terminating an 8 AWG copper
conductor.
E4206.ll Electrically operated pool covers. The electric
motors, controllers, and wiring for pool covers shall be
located not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the inside wall of
the pool except where separated from the pool by a wall,
cover, or other permanent barrier. Electric motors installed
below grade level shall be of the totally enclosed type. The
electric motor and controller shall be connected to a circuit
protected by a ground-fault circuit-interrupter. The device
that controls the operation of the motor for an electrically
operated pool cover shall be located so that the operator has
full view of the pool.
E4206.12 Electric pool water heaters. All electric pool
water heaters shall have the heating elements subdivided into
loads not exceeding 48 amperes and protected at not more
than 60 amperes. The ampacity of the branch-circuit conduc-
tors and the rating or setting of overcurrent protective devices
shall be not less than 1 25 percent of the total nameplate load
rating.
E4206.13 Pool area heating. The provisions of Sections
E4206.13.1 through E4206.13.3 shall apply to all pool deck
areas, including a covered pool, where electrically operated
comfort heating units are installed within 20 feet (6096 mm)
of the inside wall of the pool.
E4206.13.1 Unit heaters. Unit heaters shall be rigidly
mounted to the structure and shall be of the totally
enclosed or guarded types. Unit heaters shall not be
mounted over the pool or within the area extending 5 feet
(1524 mm) horizontally from the inside walls of a pool.
E4206.13.2 Permanently wired radiant heaters. Electric
radiant heaters shall be suitably guarded and securely fas-
tened to their mounting devices. Heaters shall not be
installed over a pool or within the area extending 5 feet
(1524 mm) horizontally from the inside walls of the pool
and shall be mounted not less than 12 feet (3658 mm) ver-
tically above the pool deck.
E4206.13.3 Radiant heating cables prohibited. Radiant
heating cables embedded in or below the deck shall be
prohibited.
SECTION E4207
STORABLE SWIMMING POOLS
E4207.1 Pumps. A cord and plug-connected pool filter pump
for use with storable pools shall incorporate an approved sys-
tem of double insulation or its equivalent and shall be pro-
vided with means for grounding only the internal and
nonaccessible noncurrent-carrying metal parts of the appli-
ance.
The means for grounding shall be an equipment grounding
conductor run with the power-supply conductors in a flexible
cord that is properly terminated in a grounding-type attach-
ment plug having a fixed grounding contact. Cord and plug-
connected pool filter pumps shall be provided with a ground-
fault circuit interrupter that is an integral part of the attach-
ment plug or located in the power supply cord within 12
inches (305 mm) of the attachment plug.
E4207.2 Ground-fault circuit-interrupters required. Elec-
trical equipment, including power-supply cords, used with
storable pools shall be protected by ground-fault circuit-inter-
rupters. All 125-volt, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles located j
within 20 feet (6096 mm) of the inside walls of a storable
pool shall be protected by a ground-fault circuit interrupter.
In determining these dimensions, the distance to be measured
shall be the shortest path that the supply cord of an appliance
connected to the receptacle would follow without passing
through a floor, wall, ceiling, doorway with hinged or sliding
door, window opening, or other effective permanent barrier.
E4207.3 Luminaires. Luminaires for storable pools shall not
have exposed metal parts and shall be listed for the purpose
as an assembly. In addition, luminaires for storable pools
shall comply with the requirements of Section E4207.3.1 or
E4207.3.2.
E4207.3.1 Within the low-voltage contact limit. A lumi-
naire installed in or on the wall of a storable pool shall be
part of a cord and plug-connected lighting assembly. The
assembly shall:
1. Have a luminaire lamp that is suitable for the use at
the supplied voltage;
2. Have an impact-resistant polymeric lens, luminaire
body, and transformer enclosure;
3. Have a transformer meeting the requirements of sec-
tion E4206.1 with a primary rating not over 150
volts; and
4. Have no exposed metal parts.
E4207.3.2 Over the low-voltage contact limit but not
over 150 volts. A lighting assembly without a transformer
or power supply, and with the luminaire lamp(s) operating |
at over the low- voltage contact limit, but not over 150
volts, shall be permitted to be cord and plug-connected
where the assembly is listed as an assembly for the pur-
pose and complies with all of the following:
1. It has an impact-resistant polymeric lens and lumi-
naire body.
2. A ground-fault circuit interrupter with open neutral
conductor protection is provided as an integral part
of the assembly.
3. The luminaire lamp is permanently connected to the
ground-fault circuit interrupter with open-neutral
protection.
4. It complies with the requirements of Section
E4206.4.
5. It has no exposed metal parts.
E4207.4 Receptacle locations. Receptacles shall be located
not less than 6 feet (1829 mm) from the inside walls of a
pool. In determining these dimensions, the distance to be
measured shall be the shortest path that the supply cord of an
appliance connected to the receptacle would follow without
passing through a floor, wall, ceiling, doorway with hinged or
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sliding door, window opening, or other effective permanent
barrier.
SECTION E4208
SPAS AND HOT TUBS
E4208.1 Ground-fault circuit-interrupters. The outlet(s)
that supplies a self-contained spa or hot tub, or a packaged
spa or hot tub equipment assembly, or a field-assembled spa
or hot tub with a heater load of 50 amperes or less, shall be
protected by a ground-fault circuit-interrupter.
A listed self-contained unit or listed packaged equipment
assembly marked to indicate that integral ground-fault cir-
cuit-interrupter protection is provided for all electrical parts
within the unit or assembly, including pumps, air blowers,
heaters, lights, controls, sanitizer generators and wiring, shall
not require that the outlet supply be protected by a ground-
fault circuit interrupter.
E4208.2 Electric water heaters. Electric spa and hot tub
water heaters shall be listed and shall have the heating ele-
ments subdivided into loads not exceeding 48 amperes and
protected at not more than 60 amperes. The ampacity of the
branch-circuit conductors, and the rating or setting of over-
current protective devices, shall be not less than 125 percent
of the total nameplate load rating.
E4208.3 Underwater audio equipment. Underwater audio
equipment used with spas and hot tubs shall comply with the
provisions of Section E4206.10.
E4208.4 Emergency switch for spas and hot tubs. A
clearly labeled emergency shutoff or control switch for the
purpose of stopping the motor(s) that provides power to the
recirculation system and jet system shall be installed at a
point that is readily accessible to the users, adjacent to and
within sight of the spa or hot tub and not less than 5 feet
(1524 mm) away from the spa or hot tub. This requirement
shall not apply to single-family dwellings.
structure or building finish. Where the hydromassage bathtub
is cord- and plug-connected with the supply receptacle acces-
sible only through a service access opening, the receptacle
shall be installed so that its face is within direct view and not
more than 12 inches (305 mm) from the plane of the opening.
E4209.4 Bonding. All metal piping systems and all grounded
metal parts in contact with the circulating water shall be
bonded together using an insulated, covered or bare solid
copper bonding jumper not smaller than 8 AWG. The bond-
ing jumper shall be connected to the terminal on the circulat-
ing pump motor that is intended for this purpose. The
bonding jumper shall not be required to be connected to a
double insualted circulating pump motor. The 8 AWG or
larger solid copper bonding jumper shall be required for equi-
potential bonding in the area of the hydromassage bathtub
and shall not be required to be extended or attached to any
remote panelboard, service equipment, or any electrode.
Where a double-insulated circulating pump motor is used, the
8 AWG or larger solid copper bonding jumper shall be long
enough to terminate on a replacement nondouble-insulated
pump motor and shall be terminated to the equipment
grounding conductor of the branch circuit for the motor.
SECTION E4209
HYDROMASSAGE BATHTUBS
E4209.1 Ground-fault circuit-interrupters. Hydromassage
bathtubs and their associated electrical components shall be
supplied by an individual branch circuit(s) and protected by a
readily accessible ground-fault circuit-interrupter. All 125-
volt, single-phase receptacles not exceeding 30 amperes and
located within 6 feet (1829 mm) measured horizontally of the
inside walls of a hydromassage tub shall be protected by a
ground-fault circuit interrupter(s).
E4209.2 Other electric equipment. Luminaires, switches,
receptacles, and other electrical equipment located in the
same room, and not directly associated with a hydromassage
bathtub, shall be installed in accordance with the require-
ments of this code relative to the installation of electrical
equipment in bathrooms.
E4209.3 Accessibility. Hydromassage bathtub electrical
equipment shall be accessible without damaging the building
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CHAPTER 43
CLASS 2 REMOTE-CONTROL^
SIGNALING AND POWER-LIMITED CIRCUITS
SECTION E4301
GENERAL
E4301.1 Scope. This chapter contains requirements for
power supplies and wiring methods associated with Class 2
remote-control, signaling, and power-limited circuits that are
not an integral part of a device or appliance. Other classes of
remote-control, signaling and power-limited conductors shall
comply with Article 725 of NFPA 70.
E4301.2 Definitions.
CLASS 2 CIRCUIT. That portion of the wiring system
between the load side of a Class 2 power source and the con-
nected equipment. Due to its power limitations, a Class 2 cir-
cuit considers safety from a fire initiation standpoint and
provides acceptable protection from electric shock.
REMOTE-CONTROL CIRCUIT. Any electrical circuit
that controls any other circuit through a relay or an equivalent
device.
SIGNALING CIRCUIT. Any electrical circuit that ener-
gizes signaling equipment.
SECTION E4302
POWER SOURCES
E4302.1 Power sources for Class 2 circuits. The power
source for a Class 2 circuit shall be one of the following:
1 . A listed Class 2 transformer.
2. A listed Class 2 power supply.
3. Other listed equipment marked to identify the Class 2
power source.
4. Listed information technology (computer) equipment
limited power circuits.
5. A dry-cell battery provided that the voltage is 30 volts
or less and the capacity is equal to or less than that
available from series connected No. 6 carbon zinc cells.
E4302.2 interconnection of power sources. A Class 2
power source shall not have its output connections paralleled
or otherwise interconnected with another Class 2 power
source except where listed for such interconnection.
SECTION E4303
WIRING METHODS
E4303.1 Wiring methods on supply side of Class 2 power
source. Conductors and equipment on the supply side of the
power source shall be installed in accordance with the appro-
priate requirements of Chapters 34 through 41. Transformers
or other devices supplied from electric light or power circuits
shall be protected by an over-current device rated at not over
20 amperes. The input leads of a transformer or other power
source supplying Class 2 circuits shall be permitted to be
smaller than 14 AWG, if not over 12 inches (305 mm) long
and if the conductor insulation is rated at not less than 600
volts. In no case shall such leads be smaller than 18 AWG.
E4303.2 Wiring methods and materials on load side of the
Class 2 power source. Class 2 cables installed as wiring
within buildings shall be listed as being resistant to the spread
of fire and listed as meeting the criteria specified in Sections
E4303.2.1 through E4303.2.3. Cables shall be marked in
accordance with Section E4303.2.4. Cable substitutions as
described in Table E4303.2 and wiring methods covered in
Chapter 38 shall also be permitted.
TABLE E4303.2
CABLE USES AND PERMITTED SUBSTITUTIONS
CABLE TYPE
USE
PERMITTED SUBSTITUTIONS"
CL2P
Class 2
Plenum Cable
CMP, CL3P
CL2
Class 2 Cable
CMP, CL3P, CL2P, CMR, CL3R,
CL2R CMG, CM, CL3
CL2X
Class 2 Cable,
Limited Use
CMP, CL3P CL2P, CMR,
CL3R, CL2R, CMG, CM,
CL3, CL2, CMX, CL3X
For identification of cables other than Class 2 cables, see NFPA 70.
E4303.2.1 Type CL2P cables. Cables installed in ducts,
plenums and other spaces used to convey environmental
air shall be Type CL2P cables listed as being suitable for
the use and listed as having adequate fire-resistant and low
smoke-producing characteristics.
E4303.2.2 Type CL2 cables. Cables for general-purpose
use, shall be listed as being resistant to the spread of fire
and listed for the use.
E4303.2.3 Type CL2X cables. Type CL2X limited-use
cable shall be listed as being suitable for use in dwellings
and for the use and in raceways and shall also be listed as
being flame retardant. Cables with a diameter of less than
V 4 inch (6.4 mm) shall be permitted to be installed without
a raceway.
E4303.2.4 Marking. Cables shall be marked in accor-
dance with Table E4303.2. Voltage ratings shall not be
marked on cables.
SECTION E4304
INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
E4304.1 Separation from other conductors. In cables,
compartments, enclosures, outlet boxes, device boxes, and
raceways, conductors of Class 2 circuits shall not be placed in
any cable, compartment, enclosure, outlet box, device box,
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
759
CLASS 2 REMOTE-CONTROL, SIGNALING AND POWER-LIMITED CIRCUITS
raceway, or similar fitting with conductors of electric light,
power, Class 1 and nonpower-limited fire alarm circuits.
Exceptions:
1. Where the conductors of the electric light, power,
Class 1 and nonpower-limited fire alarm circuits are
separated by a barrier from the Class 2 circuits. In
enclosures, Class 2 circuits shall be permitted to be
installed in a raceway within the enclosure to sepa-
rate them from Class 1, electric light, power and
nonpower-limited fire alarm circuits.
2. Class 2 conductors in compartments, enclosures,
device boxes, outlet boxes and similar fittings where
electric light, power, Class 1 or nonpower-limited
fire alarm circuit conductors are introduced solely to
connect to the equipment connected to the Class 2
circuits. The electric light, power, Class 1 and non-
power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors shall be
routed to maintain a minimum of 7 4 inch (6.4 mm)
separation from the conductors and cables of the
Class 2 circuits; or the electric light power, Class 1
and nonpower-limited fire alarm circuit conductors
operate at 150 volts or less to ground and the Class 2
circuits are installed using Types CL3, CL3R, or
CL3P or permitted substitute cables, and provided
that these Class 3 cable conductors extending beyond
their jacket are separated by a minimum of V 4 inch
(6.4 mm) or by a nonconductive sleeve or noncon-
ductive barrier from all other conductors.
E4304.2 Other applications. Conductors of Class 2 circuits
shall be separated by not less than 2 inches (5 1 mm) from
conductors of any electric light, power, Class 1 or nonpower-
limited fire alarm circuits except where one of the following
conditions is met:
1. All of the electric light, power, Class 1 and nonpower-
limited fire alarm circuit conductors are in raceways or
in metal-sheathed, metal-clad, nonmetallic-sheathed or
Type UF cables.
2. All of the Class 2 circuit conductors are in raceways or
in metal-sheathed, metal-clad, nonmetallic-sheathed or
Type UF cables.
E4304.3 Class 2 circuits with communications circuits.
Where Class 2 circuit conductors are in the same cable as
communications circuits, the Class 2 circuits shall be classi-
fied as communications circuits and shall meet the require-
ments of Article 800 of NFPA 70. The cables shall be listed
as communications cables or multipurpose cables.
Cables constructed of individually listed Class 2 and com-
munications cables under a common jacket shall be permitted
to be classified as communications cables. The fire-resistance
rating of the composite cable shall be determined by the per-
formance of the composite cable.
E4304.4 Class 2 cables with other circuit cables. Jacketed
cables of Class 2 circuits shall be permitted in the same
enclosure or raceway with jacketed cables of any of the fol-
lowing:
1. Power-limited fire alarm systems in compliance with
Article 760 of NFPA 70.
2. Nonconductive and conductive optical fiber cables in
compliance with Article 770 of NFPA 70.
3. Communications circuits in compliance with Article
800 of NFPA 70.
4. Community antenna television and radio distribution
systems in compliance with Article 820 of NFPA 70.
5. Low-power, network-powered broadband communica-
tions in compliance with Article 830 of NFPA 70.
E4304.5 Installation of conductors and cables. Cables and
conductors installed exposed on the surface of ceilings and
sidewalls shall be supported by the building structure in such
a manner that they will not be damaged by normal building
use. Such cables shall be supported by straps, staples, hang-
ers, cable ties or similar fittings designed so as to not damage
the cable. The installation shall comply with Table E3802.1
regarding cables run parallel with framing members and fur-
ring strips. The installation of wires and cables shall not pre-
vent access to equipment nor prevent removal of panels,
including suspended ceiling panels. Raceways shall not be
used as a means of support for Class 2 circuit conductors,
except where the supporting raceway contains conductors
supplying power to the functionally associated equipment
controlled by the Class 2 conductors.
760
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
Part IK— Referenced Standards
CHAPTER 44
REFERENCED STANDARDS
This chapter lists the standards that are referenced in various sections of this document. The standards are listed herein by the
promulgating agency of the standard, the standard identification, the effective date and title, and the section or sections of this
document that reference the standard. The application of the referenced standards shall be as specified in Section R102.4.
Standard
reference
number
American Architectural Manufacturers Association
1827 Walden Office Square, Suite 550
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
AAMA/WDMA/CSA
101/I.S.2/A440— 11
450—09
506—08
711—07
North American Fenestration Standards/Specifications for Windows,
Doors and Skylights R308.6.9, R612.3, Nl 102.4.3
Voluntary Performance Rating Method for Mulled Fenestration Assemblies R612.8
Voluntary Specifications for Hurricane Impact and Cycle Testing of Fenestration Products R612.6.1
Voluntary Specification for Self-adhering Flashing Used for Installation of
Exterior Wall Fenestration Products R703.8
ACI
Standard
reference
number
318—11
332—10
530—11
530.1—11
American Concrete Institute
38800 Country Club Drive
Farmington Hills, MI 48331
Referenced
in code
Title section number
Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete R301 .2.2.2.4, R301 .2.2.3.4, Table R402.1.2(2),
R402.2, R404.1 .2, Table R404.1 .2(5),
Table R404.1 .2(7), Table R404.1 .2(8), Table R404. 1.2(9),
R404.1.2.1,R404.1.2.3.R404.1.2.4, R404. 1.4.2, R404.5.1,R61 1.1,
R611. 1. 1, R611. 1.2, R6I 1.2, R61 1.5.1, R61 1.6.1, R61 1.8.2,
R61 1.9.2, R61 1.9.3
Code Requirements for Residential Concrete Construction R402.2, R403.1, R404.1.2, R404. 1.2.4,
R404.1.4.2,R506.1
Building Code Requirements for Masonry Structures R404.1.1, R606.1, R606.1.1,
R606.12.1.R606.12.2.2.2,R606.12.2.3.1,
R606. 12.3.1, Table R703.4
Specification for Masonry Structures R404.1.1, R606.1, R606.1.1, R606.12.1, R606.12.2.2.1,
R606. 12.2.2.2, R606.12.3.1, Table R703.4
ACCA
Standard
reference
number
Manual D — 09
Manual J — 1 1
Manuals — 10
Air Conditioning Contractors of America
2800 Shirlington Road, Suite 300
Arlington, VA 22206
Referenced
in code
Title section number
Residential Duct Systems M1601.1, M1602.2
Residential Load Calculation— Eighth Edition Nl 103.6, M140I .3
Residential Equipment Selection Nl 103.6, M1401 .3
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
761
REFERENCED STANDARDS
AFPA
Standard
reference
number
AFPA— 2012
ANSI/AF&PA
WFCM— 2012
NDS— 2012
PWF— 2007
American Forest and Paper Association
1111 1 9th Street, NW, Suite 800
Washington, DC 20036
Referenced
in code
Title section number
Span Tables for Joists and Rafters R502.3, R802.4, R802.5
Wood Frame Construction Manual for One- and
Two-family Dwellings R301.1.1, R301.2.1.1,
R611.9.2, R61 1.9.3, R611. 10
National Design Specification (NDS) for Wood Construction —
with 2005 Supplement R404.2.2, R502.2, Table R503.1,
R602.3, Table R602.3.1 , R61 1 .9.2, R61 1 .9.3, R802.2
Permanent Wood Foundation Design Specification R401 . 1 , R404.2.3
AISI
American Iron and Steel Institute
1 140 Connecticut Ave, Suite 705
Washington, DC 20036
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
AISIS100— 07/S1— 10
AISI S230— 07
North American Specification for the Design of Cold-formed
Steel Structural Members R505.1 .3, R603.6, R6I1.9.2,
R611.9.3,R804.3.7
Standard for Cold-formed Steel Framing — Prescriptive Method
for One- and Two-family Dwellings, with Supplement 2, dated 2008 R301.1.1, R301 .2.1.1, R30 1.2.2.3.1,
R301.2.2.3.5, R603.6, R603.9.4.1,R603.9.4.2, R61 1.9.2, R61 1.9.3, R61 1.10
AITC
American Institute of Timber Construction
7012 S. Revere Parkway, Suite 140
Centennial, CO 801 12
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
ANSI/AITC A 190.1 — 07 Structural Glued-laminated Timber R502.1.5,R602.1.2,R802.1.4
Standard
reference
number
A108.1A— 99
A 108. IB— 99
A 108.4— 99
A108.5— 99
A108.6— 99
A108.ll— 99
Al 18.1— 99
Al 18.3— 99
Al 18.10—99
American National Standards Institute
25 West 43rd Street, Fourth Floor
New York, NY 10036
Referenced
in code
' ] t' e section number
Installation of Ceramic Tile in the Wet-set Method, with Portland Cement Mortar R702.4. 1
Installation of Ceramic Tile, Quarry Tile on a Cured
Portland Cement Mortar Setting Bed with Dry-set or Latex Portland Mortar R702.4. 1
Installation of Ceramic Tile with Organic Adhesives or
Water-Cleanable Tile-setting Epoxy Adhesive R702.4.1
Installation of Ceramic Tile with Dry-set Portland
Cement Mortar or Latex Portland Cement Mortar R702.4.1
Installation of Ceramic Tile with Chemical-resistant, Water-cleanable Tile-setting
and -grouting Epoxy R702.4.1
Interior Installation of Cementitious Backer Units R702.4.1
American National Standard Specifications for Dry-set Portland Cement Mortar R702.4.1
American National Standard Specifications for Chemical-resistant,
Water-cleanable Tile-setting and -grouting Epoxy, and
Water-cleanable Tile-setting Epoxy Adhesive R702.4.1
Specification for Load-bearing, Bonded, Waterproof Membranes for
Thin-set Ceramic Tile and Dimension Stone Installation P2709.2 P2709.2.4
762
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
REFERENCED STANDARDS
A1 36. 1—99
A137.1— 88
A208. 1—2009
LC1/CSA 6.26—05
LC4— 07
Z21.1— 05
Z21.5.1/CSA 7.1—06
Z21.8— 94(R2002)
Z21.10.I/CSA 4.1—09
Z21.10.3/CSA 4.3—04
Z2 1.1 1.2— 07
Z21.13/CSA 4.9—10
Z21.15/CSA 9.1—09
Z21.22— 99(R2003)
Z2 1.24— 97
Z2 1.40.1/
CSA 2.91—96 (R2002)
Z2 1.40.2/
CSA 2.92—96 (R2002)
Z21.42— 93(R2002)
Z21.47/CSA2.3— 06
Z21.50/CSA 2.22—07
Z21.56/CSA4.7— 06
Z21.58— 95/CSA 1.6—07
Z21.60/CSA 2.26—03
Z21.75/CSA 6.27—07
Z2 1.80— 03
Z2 1.83— 98
Z2 1.84— 02
Z2 1.86—04
Z21.88— 02
Z21.91— 01
Z2 1.97— 09
Z83.6— 90 (R 1998)
Z83.8— 02
Z83.19— 01 (R2005)
Z83.20— 08
Z97.1— 09
Zl 24. 1—95
Zl 24.2— 95
Z 124.3— 95
Zl 24.4—96
Zl 24.6— 97
ANSI — continued
American National Standard Specifications for Organic Adhesives for
Installation of Ceramic Tile R702.4.1
American National Standard Specifications for Ceramic Tile R702.4.1
Particleboard R503.3.1,R605.1
Fuel Gas Piping Systems Using Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) G2414.5.3
Press-connect Copper and Copper-alloy Fittings for
Use in Fuel Gas Distribution Systems G2414.10.2
Household Cooking Gas Appliances G2447.1
Gas Clothes Dryers- — Volume I — Type I Clothes Dryers G2438.1
Installation of Domestic Gas Conversion Burners G2443.1
Gas Water Heaters — Volume I — Storage Water Heaters with Input Ratings
of 75,000 Btu per hour or Less G2448.1
Gas Water Heaters — Volume III — Storage Water Heaters with Input Ratings
above 75,000 Btu per hour, Circulating and Instantaneous G2448.1
Gas-fired Room Heaters — Volume II — Unvented Room Heaters G2445.1
Gas-fired Low-pressure Steam and Hot Water Boilers G2452.1
Manually Operated Gas Valves for Appliances, Appliance
Connector Valves and Hose End Valves Table G2420.1.1
Relief Valves for Hot Water Supply Systems— with Addenda Z2 1 .22a— 2000 (R2003)
and 21.22b— 2001 (R2003) P2803.2, P2803.7
Connectors for Gas Appliances G2422.1
Gas-fired, Heat-activated Air-conditioning and Heat Pump Appliances G2449.1
Gas-fired, Work-activated Air-conditioning and Heat
Pump Appliances (Internal Combustion) G2449.1
Gas-fired Illuminating Appliances G2450. 1
Gas-fired Central Furnaces G2442 . 1
Vented Gas Fireplaces G2434. 1
Gas-fired Pool Heaters G2441.1
Outdoor Cooking Gas Appliances G2447. 1
Decorative Gas Appliances for Installation in Solid Fue-burning Fireplaces G2432.1
Connectors for Outdoor Gas Appliances G2422. 1
Line Pressure Regulators G242 1 . 1
Fuel Cell Power Plants M1903.1
Manually Listed, Natural Gas Decorative Gas Appliances for Installation in
Solid Fuel-burning Fireplaces— with Addenda Z2 1.84a— 2003 G2432.1.G2432.2
Gas-fired Vented Space Heating Appliances G2436.1, G2437.1, G2446.1
Vented Gas Fireplace Heaters— with Addenda A21. 88a— 2003 and Z2 1.88b— 2004 G2435.1
Ventless Firebox Enclosures for Gas-fired Unvented Decorative Room Heaters G2445.7.1
Outdoor Decorative Appliances G2454. 1
Gas-fired Infrared Heaters G2451.1
Gas-fired Unit Heaters and Gas-fired Duct Furnaces— with Addenda Z83.8a— 2003 G2444.1
Gas-fuel High-intensity Infrared Heaters G2451.1
Gas-fired Low-intensity Infared Heaters Outdoor Decorative Appliances G2451.1
Safety Glazing Materials Used in Buildings — Safety Performance Specifications
and Methods of Test R308.1.1, R308.3.1
Plastic Bathtub Units Table P2701.1
Plastic Shower Receptors and Shower Stalls Table P2701 . 1
Plastic Lavatories TableP2701.1,P2711.1,P2711.2
Plastic Water Closet Bowls and Tanks Table P2701.1,P27 12.1
Plastic Sinks Table P2701 .1
APA — The Engineered Wood Association
701) South 19*
Tacoma, WA 98466
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
ANSI/APAPRP210-
APA E30— 03
Standard for Performance-rated Engineered Wood Siding
Engineered Wood Construction Guide
R604.1, Table R703.4
Table R503.2.1. 1(1), R503.2.2,
R803.2.2, R803.2.3
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
763
REFERENCED STANDARDS
APSP
The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals
2111 Eisenhower Avenue
Alexandria, VA 22314
Referenced
in code
Title section number
Standard for Suction Entrapment Avoidance in Swimming Pools Wading Pools, Spas,
Hot Tubs and Catch Basins AG106.1
Standard for Permanently Installed Residential Spas AG 104.1
Standard for Above-ground/On-ground Residential Swimming Pools AG103.2
Standard for Residential In-ground Swimming Pools AG103.1
Standard for Residential Portable Spas AG104.2
Standard
reference
number
ANSI/APSP 7—06
ANSI/NSPI 3—99
ANSI/NSPI 4—2007
ANSI/NSPI 5—2003
ANSI/NSPI 6—99
AC? jT^ Mj" 1 /C? Jj 1 T American Society of Civil Engineers
k5 \_x MLJI k5 Jl-J m. Structural Engineering Institute
1801 Alexander Bell Drive
Reston, VA 20191
Standard Referenced
reference in code
number Title section number
7—10 Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures R301.2.1.1, R301. 2.1.2,
R301.2.1.5, R301.2.1.5.1, Table R611.6(l),
Table R61 1 .6(2), Table R61 1 .6(3),
Table R61 1.6(4), Table R6 11 .7(1 A), R61 1.9.2,
R61 1 .9.3, Table R802.1 1 , AH 107.4.3
24—05 Flood-resistant Design and Construction R301.2.4, R301.2.4.1, R322.1,
R322.1.1, R322.1.6, R322.1.9, R322.2.2, R3223.3, AG103.3
32 — 01 Design and Construction of Frost-protected Shallow Foundations R403. 1.4.1
402 — 11 Building Code Requirements for Masonry Structures R404.1 .1, R606.1, R606.1 .1,
R606. 1 2. 1 , R606.1 2.2.2. 1 , R606. 12.2.2.2,
R606.I2.3.1, Table R703.4
602—11 Specification for Masonry Structures R606.1, R606.1.1,
R606.12.1, R606. 12.2.2.1. R606.12.2.2.2,
R606. 12.3.1, Table R703.4
AoBKAE
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating
and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc.
1791 Tullie Circle, NE
Atlanta, GA 30329
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
ASHRAE— 2009
ASHRAE 193—2010
34—2010
ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals N1102.1.4,TableN1105.5.2(l),P3001.2,P3101.4,P3103.2
Method of Test for Determining Air Tightness of HVAC Equipment N 1 103.2.2.1
Designation and Safety Classification of Refrigerants Ml 41 1.1
ASME
American Society of Mechanical Engineers
Three Park Avenue
New York, NY 10016-5990
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
ASME/A17. 1—2007/
CSA B44— 2007
A18.1— 2008
Al 12.1.2—2004
Al 12.1.3—2000
(Reaffirmed 2005)
764
Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators— with A 1 7. 1 a/CS A B44a— 08 Addenda R32 1 . 1
Safety Standard for Platforms and Stairway Chair Lifts R321 .2
Air Gaps in Plumbing Systems Table P2902.3,P2902.3.1
Air Gap Fittings for Use with Plumbing Fixtures, Appliances and Appurtenances . . . Table P2701.1, P2902. 3.1
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
All 2.3. 1—2007
Al 12.3.4— 2000 (R2004)
Al 12.4.1— 1993 (R2002)
Al 12.4.2— 2003 (R2008)
Al 12.4.3— 1999 (R2004)
Al 1 2.6. 1M— 1997 (R2002)
Al 12.6.2—2000 (R2004)
Al 12.6.3— 2001 (R2007)
Al 12. 14. 1—03
(Reaffirmed 2008)
Al 12. 18. 1—2005/
CSA B 125. 1—2010
A112.18.2— 2005/
CSAB125.2— 2005
Al 12.18.3— 2002
(Reaffirmed 2008)
A112.18.6/
CSAB125.6— 2010
A112.19.1M/
CSAB45.2— 2008
All 2. 19.2—2008/
CSAB45. 1—2008
Al 12.19.3— 2008/
CSA B45.4— 2008
A112.19.4M— 1994
(R2004)
Al 12.19.5/
CSA B45.X— 2009
A112.19.7/
CSA B45.1 0—2009
AH2.19.9M— 1991
(R2002)
Al 12.19.12—2006
Al 12. 19. 15— 2005
Bl.20.1 — 1983(R2006)
B16.3-
B16.4-
B16.9-
B16.il-
B16.12-
B 16.15-
B16.18-
B16.22-
B16.23-
B16.26-
B 16.28-
B 16.29-
•2006
-2006
■2007
-2005
-1998
-2006
-2001 (R2005)
-2001(R2005)
-2002 (R2006)
-2006
-1994
-2007
B16.33— 2002
(Reaffirmed 2007)
B 16.44— 2002
(Reaffirmed 2007)
B36.10M— 2004
BPVC— 2007
CSD-1— 2009
REFERENCED STANDARDS
ASME — continued
Stainless Steel Drainage Systems for Sanitary, DWV, Storm
and Vacuum Applications Above and Below Ground Table P3002.1(l), Table P3002.1(2),
Table P3002.2, Table P3002.3, Table P3302.1
Macerating Toilet Systems and Related Components Table P2701 .1, P3007.5
Water Heater Relief Valve Drain Tubes P2803.6.1
Water-closet Personal Hygiene Devices P2722.5
Plastic Fittings for Connecting Water Closets to the Sanitary Drainage System P3003.19
Floor-affixed Supports for Off-the-floor Plumbing Fixtures for Public Use Table P2701.1, P2702.4
Framing-affixed Supports for Off-the-floor Water Closets with Concealed Tanks Table P2701.1, P2702.4
Floor and Trench Drains Table P2701 1
Backwater Valves P3008.2
Plumbing Supply Fittings Table P2701.1, P2708.4, P2708.5, P2722.1, P2902.2
Plumbing Waste Fittings with 2007 and 2008 Supplements Table P2701.1, P2702.2
Performance Requirements for Backflow Protection Devices and
Systems in Plumbing Fixture Fittings P2708.4, P2722.3
Flexible Water Connectors P2905.7
Enameled Cast-iron and Enameled Steel Plumbing Fixtures Table P2701.1, P2711.1
Ceramic Plumbing Fixtures Table P2701.1, P2705.1, P271 1.1, P2712.1, P2712.2, P2712.9
Stainless Steel Plumbing Fixtures Table P2701.1, P2705.1, P27I1.1, P2712.1
Porcelain-enameled-formed Steel Plumbing Fixtures — with
1998 and 2000 Supplements Table P2701.1, P271 1.1
Trim for Water-closet Bowls, Tanks and Urinals Table P2701.1
Hydromassage Bathtub Appliances Table P2701 .1
Nonvitreous Ceramic Plumbing Fixtures — with 2002 Supplement Table P2701.1, P2711.I, P2712.1
Wall-mounted and Pedestal-mounted, Adjustable
and Pivoting Lavatory and Sink Carrier Systems Table P270 1.1, P27 11.4, P27 14.2
Bathtub/Whirlpool Bathtubs with Pressure-sealed Doors Table P2701 . 1 , P2713.2
Pipe Threads, General-purpose (Inch) G2414.9, P3003.3.3, P3003.5.3,
P3003. 10.4, P3003. 12.1, P3003. 14.3
Malleable-iron-threaded Fittings, Classes 150 and 300 Table P2905.6
Gray-iron-threaded Fittings Classes, 125 and 250 Table P2905.6, Table P3002.3
Factory-made, Wrought-steel Buttwelding Fittings Table P2905.6
Forged Fittings, Socket-welding and Threaded Table P2905.6
Cast-iron-threaded Drainage Fittings Table P2905.6, Table P3002.3(R2006)
Cast-bronze-threaded Fittings Table P2905.6, Table P3002.3
Cast-copper-alloy Solder Joint Pressure Fittings Table P2905.6, Table P3002.3
Wrought-copper and Copper-alloy Solder Joint Pressure Fittings Table P2905.6, Table P3002.3
Cast-copper-alloy Solder Joint Drainage Fittings (DWV) Table P2905.6, Table P3002.3
Cast-copper-alloy Fittings for Flared Copper Tubes Table P2905.6, Table P3002.3
Wrought-steel Buttwelding Short Radius Elbows and Returns Table P2905.6
Wrought-copper and Wrought-copper-alloy Solder Joint Drainage Fittings (DWV) Table P2905.6,
Table P3002.3
Manually Operated Metallic Gas Valves for Use in Gas Piping
Systems up to 1 25 psig (Sizes 7 2 through 2)
.Table G2420. 1.1
Manually Operated Metallic Gas Valves for Use in
Above-ground Piping Systems up to 5 psi Table G2420. 1 . 1
Welded and Seamless Wrought-steel Pipe G2414.4.2
ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (2007 Edition) M2001.1.1, G2452.1
Controls and Safety Devices for Automatically Fired Boilers M2001.1.1, G2452.1
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
765
REFERENCED STANDARDS
Standard
reference
number
1001—2008
1002—2008
1003—2009
1008—2006
1010—2004
1011—2004
1012—2009
1013—2009
1015—2009
1016—2010
1017—2010
1019—2010
1020—2004
1023—2010
1024—2004
1035—2008
1037—2010
1047—2009
1048—2009
1050—2009
1051—2009
1052—2004
1056—2010
1060—2006
1061—2010
1062—2006
1066—2009
1070—2004
American Society of Sanitary Engineering
901 Canterbury, Suite A
Westlake, OH 44145
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
Performance Requirements for Atmospheric-type Vacuum Breakers Table P2902.3, P2902.3.2
Performance Requirements for Anti-siphon Fill Valves for
Water Closet Flush Tank Table P2701.1, Table P2902.3, P2902.4.1
Performance Requirements for Water-pressure-reducing
Valves for Domestic Water Distribution Systems P2903.3.1
Performance Requirements for Plumbing Aspects of
Residential Food Waste Disposer Units Table P2701.1
Performance Requirements for Water Hammer Arresters P2903.5
Performance Requirements for Hose Connection Vacuum Breakers Table P2902.3, P2902.3.2
Performance Requirements for Backflow Preventers
with Intermediate Atmospheric Vent Table P2902.3, P2902.3.3, P2902.5.1, P2902.5.5
Performance Requirements for Reduced Pressure Principle Backflow Preventers
and Reduced Pressure Principle Fire Protection Backflow Preventers Table P2902.3, P2902.3.5,
P2902.5.1,P2902.5.5
Performance Requirements for Double Check Backflow Prevention Assemblies
and Double Check Fire Protection Backflow Prevention Assemblies Table P2902.3, P2902.3.6
Performance Requirements for Automatic Compensating
Valves for Individual Showers and Tub/Shower Combinations Table P2701.1,P2708.3,P2722.2
Performance Requirements for Temperature-actuated Mixing Valves for
Hot Water Distribution Systems P2724.1,P2802.2
Performance Requirements for Freeze-resistant. Wall Hydrants,
Vacuum Breaker, Draining Types Table P2701.1,P2902.3
Performance Requirements for Pressure Vacuum Breaker Assembly Table P2902.3,P2902.3.4
Performance Requirements for Hot Water Dispensers, Household-
storage-type — Electrical Table P2701.1
Performance Requirements for Dual Check Backflow Preventers, Anti-siphon-
type, Residential Applications Table P2902.3
Performance Requirements for Laboratory Faucet Backflow Preventers Table P2902.3,P2902.3.2
Performance Requirements for Pressurized Flushing Devices
(Flushometer) for Plumbing Fixtures Table P2701.1
Performance Requirements for Reduced Pressure Detector Fire
Protection Backflow Prevention Assemblies Table P2902.3, P2902.3.5
Performance Requirements for Double Check Detector Fire
Protection Backflow Prevention Assemblies Table P2902.3, P2902.3.6
Performance Requirements for Stack Air Admittance
Valves for Sanitary Drainage Systems P31 14.1
Performance Requirements for Individual and Branch-type Air Admittance
Valves for Plumbing Drainage Systems P31 14.1
Performance Requirements for Hose Connection Backflow Preventers Table P2701 .1,
Table P2902.3, P2902.3.2
Performance Requirements for Spill-resistant Vacuum Breakers Table P2902.3, P2902.3.4
Performance Requirements for Outdoor Enclosures for Fluid-conveying Components P2902.6.1
Performance Requirements for Removable and Nonremovable Push Fit Fittings TableP2905.6
Performance Requirements for Temperature-actuated, Flow Reduction (TAFR)
Valves for Individual Supply Fittings Table P2701.1.P2724.2
Performance Requirements for Individual Pressure Balancing In-line
Valves for Individual Fixture Fittings P2722.4
Performance Requirements for Water-temperature-limiting Devices P2713.3.P2721 .2
A5 JL IVl
Standard
reference
number
A 36/A 36M— 08
A 53/A 53M— 07
ASTM International
1 00 Barr Harbor Drive
West Conshohocken, PA 19428
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
Specification for Carbon Structural Steel R606.15,R61 1.5.2.2
Specification for Pipe, Steel, Black and Hot-dipped, Zinc-coated Welded and Seamless R402.3,
Table M2101.1, G2414.4.2, Table P2905.4,
Table P2905.5, Table P3002.1(l)
766
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
REFERENCED STANDARDS
A 74—09
A 82/A 82M— 05a
A 106/ A 106M— 08
A 153/A 153M— 05
A 167—99 (2009)
A 240/A 240M— 09a
A 254—97 (2007)
A 307— 07b
A312/A312M— 08a
A 463/A 463M— 06
A 510—08
A 539—99
A615/A615M— 09
A641/A641M— 09a
A 653/A 653M— 08
A 706/A 706M— 09
A 755/A 755M— 03 (2008)
A 778—01
A 792/A 792M— 08
A 875/A 875M— 06
A 888—09
A 924/A 924M— 08a
A 951—06
A 996/A 996M— 09
A 1003/ A 1003M— 08
B 32—08
B 42— 02e01
B 43—98 (2004)
B 75—02
B 88—03
B 101—07
B 135— 08a
B 209—07
B 227—04
ASTM— continued
Specification for Cast-iron Soil Pipe and Fittings Table P3002. 1(1), Table P3002.1(2),
Table P3002.2, Table P3002.3, P3005.2.9, Table P3302.1
Specification for Steel Wire, Plain, for Concrete Reinforcement R606.15
Specification for Seamless Carbon Steel Pipe for High-temperature Service TableM2101.1,G2414.4.2
Specification for Zinc Coating (Hot Dip) on Iron and Steel Hardware R3 17.3, Table R606. 15.1
Specification for Stainless and Heat-resisting Chromium-nickel
Steel Plate, Sheet and Strip R606.15, Table R606.15.1
Standard Specification for Chromium and Chromium-nickel Stainless
Steel Plate, Sheet and Strip for Pressure Vessels and for General Applications Table R905. 10.3(1)
Specification for Copper Brazed Steel Tubing Table M2101.1 , G2414.5.1
Specification for Carbon Steel Bolts and Studs, 6000 psi Tensile Strength R61 1.5.2.2
Specification for Seamless, Welded and Heavily Cold Worked
Austenitic Stainless Steel Pipes Table P2905.4, Table P2905.5,
Table P2905.6, P2905.12.2
Standard Specification for Steel Sheet, Aluminum-coated by the Hot-dip Process Table R905. 10. 3(2)
Specification for General Requirements for Wire Rods and Coarse Round Wire, Carbon Steel R606. 15
Specification for Electric-resistance- welded Coiled Steel Tubing for Gas and Fuel Oil Lines M2202.1
Specification for Deformed and Plain Billet-steel Bars for
Concrete Reinforcement R402.3.1,R404.1.2.3.7.1,R611.5.2.1
Specification for Zinc-coated (Galvanized) Carbon Steel Wire TableR606.15.1
Specification for Steel Sheet, Zinc-coated (Galvanized) or Zinc-iron
Alloy-coated Galvanized) by the Hot-dip Process R317.3.1.R505.2.1,
R505.2.3, R603.2.1, R603.2.3, Table R606.15.1,
R61 1.5.2.3, R804.2.1, R804.2.3, Table R905. 10.3(1),
Table R905. 10.3(2), M1601. 1.1
Specification for Low-alloy Steel Deformed and Plain Bars for
Concrete Reinforcement R402.3.1,R404.1.2.3.7.1,R611.5.2.1
Specification for Steel Sheet, Metallic Coated by the Hot-dip Process and
Prepainted by the Coil-coating Process for Exterior Exposed Building Products Table R905. 10.3(2)
Specification for Welded Unannealed Austenitic Stainless Steel Tubular Products Table P2905.4,
Table P2905.5, Table P2905.6
Specification for Steel Sheet, 55% Aluminum-zinc Alloy-coated by the
Hot-dip Process R505.2.1, R505.2.3, R603.2.1,
R603.2.3.R61 1.5.2. 3,R804.2.1,
R804.2.3, Table 905.10.3(2)
Specification for Steel Sheet, Zinc-5%, Aluminum Alloy-coated by the
Hot-dip Process R61 1.5.2.3, Table R905. 10.3(2)
Specification for Hubless Cast Iron Soil Pipe and Fittings for Sanitary and Storm Drain,
Waste and Vent Piping Application Table P3002.1 (1),
Table P3002. 1 (2), Table P3002.2,
Table P3002.3, P3005.2.9, Table P3302.1
Standard Specification for General Requirements for Steel Sheet, Metallic-coated
by the Hot-Dip Process TableR905.10.3(l)
Specification for Steel Wire Masonry Joint Reinforcement R606.15
Specifications for Rail-steel and Axle-steel Deformed Bars for Concrete Reinforcement . . . Table R404.1 .2(9),
R404. 1.2.3.7.1,
R61 1.5.2.1, Table R61 1.5.4(2)
Standard Specification for Steel Sheet, Carbon, Metallic and
Nonmetallic-coated for Cold-formed Framing Members R505.2.1 , R505.2.3, R603.2.1,
R603.2.3,R804.2.1,R804.2.3
Specification for Solder Metal P3003.10.3,P3003.11.3
Specification for Seamless Copper Pipe, Standard Sizes Table M2101.1, Table P2905.4,
Table P2905.5, Table P3002.1(l)
Specification for Seamless Red Brass Pipe, Standard Sizes Table M2101.1, G2413.5.2,
Table P2905 .4, Table P3002 . 1 ( 1 )
Specification for Seamless Copper Tube Table M2101.1, Table P2905.4, Table P2905.5,
Table P3002.1(l), Table P3002.1(2), Table P3002.2
Specification for Seamless Copper Water Tube Table M2101.1, G2414.5.2, Table, P2905.4,
Table P2905. 5, Table P3002. 1(1),
Table P3002.1(2), Table P3002.2
Specification for Lead-coated Copper Sheet and Strip for Building Construction Table R905.2.8.2,
Table R905.10.3(l)
Specification for Seamless Brass Tube TableM2l01.1
Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-alloy Sheet and Plate Table905. 10.3(1)
Specification for Hard-drawn Copper-clad Steel Wire R606.15
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
767
REFERENCED STANDARDS
B 251— 02e01
B 302—07
B 306—09
B 370—09
B 447—07
B 695—04
B 813—00 (2009)
B 828—02
C 4— 04e01
C5— 03
C 14—07
C 22/C 22M— 00
(2005e01)
C 27—98 (2008)
C 28/C 28M— 00 (2005)
C 33/C 33M— 08
C 34—03
C 35—01(2005)
C 55— 06e01
C 59/C 59M— 00 (2006)
C 61/C 61M— 00 (2006)
C 62—08
C 73—05
C 76— 08a
C90— 08
C 91—05
C 94/C 94M— 09
C 129—06
C 143/C 143M— 08
C 145—85
C 150— 07
C 199—84 (2005)
C 203— 05a
C 207—06
C 208— 08a
C 21 6— 07a
C 270— 08a
C 272—01(2007)
C 273/C 273M— 07a
ASTM — continued
Specification for General Requirements for Wrought Seamless Copper and
Copper-alloy Tube Table M2101.1, Table P2905.4,
Table P2905.5, Table P3002.1(l), Table P3002.2
Specification for Threadless Copper Pipe, Standard Sizes Table M2 10 1.1, Table P2905. 4,
Table P2905.5, Table P3002.l(1)
Specification for Copper Drainage Tube (DWV) Table M2101.1, Table P3002. 1(1),
Table P3002.1(2), Table P3002.2
Specification for Copper Sheet and Strip for Building Construction Table R905.2.8.2,
Table R905. 10.3(1), Table P2701.1
Specification for Welded Copper Tube Table P2904.4, Table P2905.5
Standard Specification for Coatings of Zinc Mechanically Deposited on
Iron and Steel R317.3.1, R317.3.3
Specification for Liquid and Paste Fluxes for Soldering Applications
of Copper and Copper Alloy Tube Table M2101.1, P2905.14,
P3003.10.3, P3003.11.3
Practice for Making Capillary Joints by Soldering of Copper and
Copper Alloy Tube and Fittings P2905.14, P3003. 10.3, P3003.1 1.3
Specification for Clay Drain Tile and Perforated Clay Drain Tile TableP3302. 1
Specification for Quicklime for Structural Purposes R702.2.1
Specification for Non-reinforced Concrete Sewer,
Storm Drain and Culvert Pipe Table P3002.2
Specification for Gypsum R702.2.1, R702.3.1
Specification for Standard Classification of Fireclay
and High-alumina Refractory Brick R1001 .5, Rl 001 .8
Specification for Gypsum Plasters R702.2.1
Specification for Concrete Aggregates R403.4.1
Specification for Structural Clay Load-bearing Wall Tile Table R301 .2(1)
Specification for Inorganic Aggregates for Use in Gypsum Plaster R702.2. 1
Specification for Concrete Building Brick R202, Table R301 .2(1)
Specification for Gypsum Casting and Molding Plaster R702.2
Specification for Gypsum Keene's Cement R702.2. 1
Specification for Building Brick (Solid Masonry
Units Made from Clay or Shale) R202, Table R301 ,2( 1 )
Specification for Calcium Silicate Face Brick (Sand Lime Brick) R202, Table R301 .2(1)
Specification for Reinforced Concrete Culvert, Storm
Drain and Sewer Pipe Table P3002.2
Specification for Load-bearing Concrete Masonry Units TableR301.2(l)
Specification for Masonry Cement R702.2.2
Specification for Ready-mixed Concrete R404. 1.2.3.2, R611.5.1.1
Specification for Nonload-bearing Concrete Masonry Units Table R301 .2(1 )
Test Method for Slump or Hydraulic Cement Concrete R404.1.2.3.4,R611.5.1.3,R611.6.1
Specification for Solid Load-bearing Concrete Masonry Units R202, Table R301.2(l)
Specification for Portland Cement R702.2.2
Test Method for Pier Test for Refractory Mortar R1001.5, R1001.8, R1003.12
Standard Test Methods for Breaking Load and Flexural
Properties of Block-type Thermal Insulation Table R613. 3.1
Specification for Hydrated Lime for Masonry Purposes Table R607.1
Specification for Cellulosic Fiber Insulating Board Table R602.3(l ), Table R906.2
Specification for Facing Brick (Solid Masonry Units
Made from Clay or Shale) R202, Table R301 .2(1)
Specification for Mortar for Unit Masonry R607.1, AE602
Standard Test Method for Water Absorption of Core Materials for
Structural Sandwich Constructions TableR613.3.1
Standard Test Method for Shear Properties of Sandwich Core Materials TableR613.3.1
768
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
REFERENCED STANDARDS
C 296—00 (2004)
C 315—07
C406— 06eOI
C 41 1—05
C 425—04
C 428—05 (2006)
C 443— 05a
C 475/C 475—02 (2007)
C 476—08
C 508—04
C 514—04
C 552—07
C557— 03e01
C 564—08
C 578— 08b
C 587—04
C 595— 08a
C 631—09
C 645— 08a
C 652—09
C 685/C 685M— 07
C 700— 07a
C 728—05
C 836—06
C 843—99 (2006)
C 844—04
C 847—09
C 887—05
C 897—05
C 920—08
C 926—06
C 933— 07b
C 954—07
C 955—09
C 957—06
C 1002—07
C 1029—08
C 1032— 06
CI 047— 09
C 1063—08
C1107/C 1107M— 08
C1116/C116M— 08a
C 1 167—03
C 1 173—08
C 1177/C 1177M— 08
ASTM— continued
Specification for Asbestos Cement Pressure Pipe TableP2905.4
Specification for Clay Flue Liners and Chimney Pots R1001.8, R1003.1 1.1,
Table R1003.14(l), G2425.12
Specifications for Roofing Slate R905.6.4
Test Method for Hot-surface Performance of High-temperature Thermal Insulation M1601.3
Specification for Compression Joints for Vitrified Clay Pipe and Fittings Table P3002.2,
P3003.15,P3003.18
Specification for Asbestos-cement Nonpressure Sewer Pipe TableP3002.2
Specification for Joints for Concrete Pipe and Manholes, Using Rubber Gaskets P3003.7.P3003.18
Specification for Joint Compound and Joint Tape for Finishing Gypsum Wallboard R702.3.1
Specification for Grout for Masonry R609.1.1
Specification for Asbestos-cement Underdrain Pipe Table P3302.1
Specification for Nails for the Application of Gypsum Wallboard R702.3. 1
Standard Specification for Cellular Glass Thermal Insulation Table R906.2
Specification for Adhesives for Fastening Gypsum Wallboard to Wood Framing R702.3.1
Specification for Rubber Gaskets for Cast Iron Soil Pipe and Fittings P3003.6.2, P3003.6.3, P3003.1 8
Specification for Rigid, Cellular Polystyrene Thermal Insulation R403.3, R613.3.1,
R703.11.2.1,TableR906.2
Specification for Gypsum Veneer Plaster R702.2.1
Specification for Blended Hydraulic Cements R702.2.2
Specification for Bonding Compounds for Interior Gypsum Plastering R702.2.1
Specification for Nonstructural Steel Framing Members R702.3.3
Specification for Hollow Brick (Hollow Masonry Units Made from Clay or Shale) R202, Table R30 1.2(1)
Specification for Concrete Made by Volumetric
Batching and Continuous Mixing R404.1.2.3.2,R611.5.1.1
Specification for Vitrified Clay Pipe, Extra Strength, Standard Strength and Perforated Table P3002.2,
Table P3002.3, Table P3302.1
Standard Specification for Perlite Thermal Insulation Board Table R906.2
Specification for High Solids Content, Cold Liquid-applied Elastomeric
Waterproofing Membrane for Use with Separate Wearing Course R905. 15.2
Specification for Application of Gypsum Veneer Plaster R702.2. 1
Specification for Application of Gypsum Base to Receive Gypsum Veneer Plaster R702.2.1
Specification for Metal Lath R702.2.1,R702.2.2
Specification for Packaged, Dry, Combined Materials for Surface Bonding Mortar R406.1
Specification for Aggregate for Job-mixed Portland Cement-based Plasters R702.2.2
Standard Specification for Elastomeric Joint Sealants R406.4.1
Specification for Application of Portland Cement-based Plaster R702.2.2, R702.2.2.1, R703.6,
R703.6.2.1, R703.6.4
Specification for Welded Wire Lath R702.2.1.R702.2.2
Specification for Steel Drill Screws for the Application of Gypsum Panel
Products or Metal Plaster Bases to Steel Studs from 0.033 in (0.84 mm) or
to 0.1 12 in. (2.84 mm) in Thickness R505.2.4, R603.2.4, R702.3.6, R804.2.4
Specification for Load-bearing (Transverse and Axial) Steel Studs, Runners (Tracks),
and Bracing or Bridging for Screw Application of Gypsum Panel Products
and Metal Plaster Bases R702.3.3
Specification for High-solids Content, Cold Liquid-applied Elastomeric
Waterproofing Membrane for Use with Integral Wearing Surface R905.15.2
Specification for Steel Drill Screws for the Application of Gypsum Panel Products
or Metal Plaster Bases R702.3.1,R702.3.6
Specification for Spray-applied Rigid Cellular Polyurethane Thermal Insulation R905. 1 4.2
Specification for Woven Wire Plaster Base R702.2.1.R702.2.2
Specification for Accessories for Gypsum Wallboard
and Gypsum Veneer Base R702.2.1.R702.2.2.R702.3.1
Specification for Installation of Lathing and Furring to Receive Interior and
Exterior Portland Cement-based Plaster R702.2.2,R703.6
Standard Specification for Packaged Dry, Hydraulic-cement Grout (Nonshrink) R402.3.1
Standard Specification for Fiber-reinforced Concrete and Shotcrete R402.3.1
Specification for Clay Roof Tiles R905.3.4
Specification for Flexible Transition Couplings for Underground
Piping Systems P3003.3, P3003.7, P3003.8.1,
P3003.14.LP3003.15, P3003.17.2, P3003.18
Specification for Glass Mat Gypsum Substrate for Use as Sheathing R702.3.1
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
769
REFERENCED STANDARDS
C 1178/C1178M— 08
C 1186—08
C 1261—07
C 1277—08
C 1278/C 1278M— 07a
C 1283— 07a
C 1288—99 (2004)el
C 1289—08
CI 325— 08b
C 1328—05
C 1396/C I396M— 06a
C 1440—08
C 1460—08
C 1461—08
C 1492—03
C 1513—04
C 1658/C 1658M— 06
D 41—05
D 43—00(2006)
D 225—07
D 226—06
D 227—03
D 312—00 (2006)
D 422—63 (2007)
D 449—03 (2008)
D 450—07
D 1227—95 (2007)
D 1248—05
D 1527—99 (2005)
D 1621— 04a
D 1622—08
D 1623—03
D 1693—08
D 1784—08
D 1785—06
D 1863—05
D 1869—95 (2005)el
D 1970—09
D 2104— 03
D 2126—04
D 2178—04
D 2235—04
ASTM — co nti n ued
Specification for Glass Mat Water-resistant Gypsum Backing Panel R702.3.1, R702.3.8, R702.4.2
Specification for Flat Nonasbestos Fiber Cement Sheets R703. 10.1, R703. 10.2
Specification for Firebox Brick for Residential Fireplaces R1001.5,R1001 .8
Specification for Shielded Couplings Joining Hubless Cast Iron Soil Pipe and Fittings P3003.6.3
Specification for Fiber-reinforced Gypsum Panels R702.3. 1 , R702.3.8, R702.4.2
Practice for Installing Clay Flue Lining R1003.9. 1.R1003.12
Standard Specification for Discrete Nonasbestos Fiber-cement Interior Substrate Sheets R702.4.2
Standard Specification for Faced Rigid Cellular Polyisocyanurate
Thermal Insulation Board R703.1 1.2.1, Table R906.2
Standard Specification for Nonasbestos Fiber-mat Reinforced Cement Interior Substrate Sheets R702.4.2
Specification for Plastic (Stucco) Cement R702.2.2
Specification for Gypsum Board Table R602.3(l), R702.2.1,R702.2.2,R702.3.1,R702.3.8
Specification for Thermoplastic Elastomeric (TPE) Gasket Materials for Drain,
Waste and Vent (DWV), Sewer, Sanitary and Storm Plumbing Systems P3003.18
Specification for Shielded Transition Couplings for Use with Dissimilar
DWV Pipe and Fittings Above Ground P3003.18
Specification for Mechanical Couplings Using Thermoplastic
Elastomeric (TPE) Gaskets for Joining Drain, Waste and Vent (DWV) Sewer, Sanitary
and Storm Plumbing Systems for Above and Below Ground Use P3003.18
Specification for Concrete Roof Tile R905.3.5
Standard Specification for Steel Tapping Screws for Cold-formed
Steel Framing Connections R505.2.4, R603.2.4, R702.3.6, R804.2.4
Standard Specification for Glass Mat Gypsum Panels R702.3.1
Specification for Asphalt Primer Used in Roofing, Dampproofing
and Waterproofing Table R905.9.2, Table R905.1 1.2
Specification for Coal Tar Primer Used in Roofing, Dampproofing
and Waterproofing Table R905.9.2
Specification for Asphalt Shingles (Organic Felt) Surfaced with Mineral Granules R905.2.4
Specification for Asphalt-saturated (Organic Felt) Used in Roofing and Waterproofing R703.2, R905.2.3,
R905.3.3, R905.4.3, R905.4.3.2,
R905.5.3, R905.5.3.2, R905.6.3,
R905.6.3.2, R905.7.3, R905.8.3, R905.8.3.2,
R905.8.4, Table R905.9.2, R905. 10.5.1
Specification for Coal Tar Saturated (Organic Felt) Used in Roofing and Waterproofing TableR905.9.2
Specification for Asphalt Used in Roofing Table R905.9.2
Test Method for Particle-size Analysis of Soils R403. 1.8.1
Specification for Asphalt Used in Dampproofing and Waterproofing R406.2
Specification for Coal-tar Pitch Used in Roofing, Dampproofing
and Waterproofing Table R905.9.2
Specification for Emulsified Asphalt Used as a Protective
Coating for Roofing Table R905.9.2, Table R905. 1 1 .2, R905. 15.2
Specification for Polyethylene Plastics Extrusion Materials for Wire and Cable M1601.1.2
Specification for Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) Plastic Pipe,
Schedules 40 and 80 TableP2905.4
Standard Test Method for Compressive Properties of Rigid Cellular Plastics Table R613. 3.1
Standard Test Method for Apparent Density of Rigid Cellular Plastics TableR613.3.1
Standard Test Method for Tensile and Tensile Adhesion
Properties of Rigid Cellular Plastics TableR613.3.1
Test Method for Environmental Stress-cracking of Ethylene Plastics TableM2101.1
Standard Specification for Rigid Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC)
Compounds and Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Compounds M1601.1.2
Specification for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe,
Schedules 40, 80 and 120 Table P2905.4
Specification for Mineral Aggregate Used in Built-up Roofs Table R905. 9.2
Specification for Rubber Rings for Asbestos-cement Pipe P2904.17,P3003.4,P3003. 18
Specification for Self-adhering Polymer Modified Bitumen
Sheet Materials Used as Steep Roofing Underlayment for
Ice Dam Protection R905.2.3, R905. 2.7.2, R905.2.8.2,
R905.3.3.3, R905.4.3, R905.4.3.2, R905.5.3.2,
R905.6.3.2, R905.7.3.2, R905.8.3.2, R905.10.5.1
Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe, Schedule 40 Table P2905.4
Standard Test Method for Response of Rigid Cellular Plastics
to Thermal and Humid Aging TableR613.3.1
Specification for Asphalt Glass Felt Used in Roofing and Waterproofing TableR905.9.2
Specification for Solvent Cement for Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene
(ABS) Plastic Pipe and Fittings P2905.9.1.1,P3003.3.2,P3003.8.2
770
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
REFERENCED STANDARDS
D 2239—03
D 2241—05
D 2282—05
D 2412—02 (2008)
D 2447—03
D 2464—06
D 2466—06
D 2467—06
D 2468— 96a
D 25 13— 08b
D 2559—04
D2564— 04e01
D 2609—02 (2008)
D 2626—04
D 2657—07
D 2661—08
D 2665—09
D 2672— 96a (2003)
D 2683—04
D 2729—03
D 2737—03
D 2751—05
D 2822—05
D 2823—05
D 2824—06
D 2837—08
D 2846/D 2846M— 09
D 2855—96 (2002)
D 2898—04
D 2949— 01 a (2008)
D 3019—08
D 3034—08
D 3035—08
ASTM— continued
Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe (SIDR-PR) Based on
Controlled Inside Diameter Table P2905.4
Specification for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Pressure-rated
Pipe (SDR-Series) TableP2905.4
Specification for Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) Plastic Pipe (SDR-PR) Table P2905.4
Test Method for Determination of External Loading Characteristics of
Plastic Pipe by Parallel-plate Loading M1601 .1 .2
Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe Schedules 40 and 80,
Based on Outside Diameter TableM2101.1
Specification for Threaded Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic
Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80 TableP2905.6
Specification for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic
Pipe Fittings, Schedule 40 TableP2905.6
Specification for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic
Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80 Table P2905.6
Specification for Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS)
Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 40 TableP2905.6
Specification for Thermoplastic Gas Pressure Pipe,
Tubing and Fittings Table M2101.1, M2104.2.1.3,
G2414.6, G2414.6.1, G2414.ll, G2415.15.2
Standard Specification for Adhesives for Structural Laminated Wood
Products for Use Under Exterior (West Use) Exposure Conditions R613.3.3
Specification for Solvent Cements for Poly (Vinyl Chloride)
(PVC) Plastic Piping Systems P2905.9.1.3, Table P3002.2,
P3003.9.2,P3003.14.2
Specification for Plastic Insert Fittings for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe Table P2905.6
Specification for Asphalt-saturated and Coated Organic Felt Base
Sheet Used in Roofing R905. 3.3, Table R905.9.2
Standard Practice for Heat Fusion-joining of Polyolefin Pipe Fittings P2905.3.1,P3003.17.1
Specification for Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) Schedule 40 Plastic
Drain, Waste, and Vent Pipe and Fittings Table P3002.1(l),
Table P3002.1(2), Table P3002.2,
Table P3002.3, P3003.3.2, P3003.8.2
Specification for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Drain,
Waste and Vent Pipe and Fittings Table P3002.1(l), Table P3002. 1 (2),
Table P3002.2, Table P3002.3
Specification for Joints for IPS PVC Pipe Using Solvent Cement Table P2905.4
Specification for Socket-type Polyethylene Fittings for Outside
Diameter-controlled Polyethylene Pipe and Tubing Table M2101.1, M2104.2.1.1
Specification for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Sewer Pipe and Fittings P3009. 14. 10, Table P3302. 1 ,
Table AO 103. 10
Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Tubing Table P2905.4
Specification for Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) Sewer Pipe and Fittings Table P3002.2,
Table P3002.3
Specification for Asphalt Roof Cement, Asbestos Containing TableR905.9.2
Specification for Asphalt Roof Coatings, Asbestos Containing TableR905.9.2
Specification for Aluminum-pigmented Asphalt Roof Coatings, Nonfibered,
Asbestos Fibered and Fibered without Asbestos Table R905.9.2, Table R905. 1 1 .2
Test Method for Obtaining Hydrostatic Design Basis for Thermoplastic Pipe
Materials or Pressure Design Basis for Thermoplastic Pipe Products TableM2101.1
Specification for Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC)
Plastic Hot- and Cold-water Distribution Systems Table M2101.1, P2904.9.1.2,
Table P2905.4, Table P2905.5, Table P2905.6
Standard Practice for Making Solvent-cemented Joints
with Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Pipe and Fittings P3003.9.2,P3003.14.2
Test Methods for Accelerated Weathering of Fire-retardant-treated
Wood for Fire Testing R802.1. 3.4, R802. 1.3.6
Specification for 3.25-in. Outside Diameter Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Drain,
Waste and Vent Pipe and Fittings Table P3002.1(l),
Table P3002.1(2), Table P3002.2, Table P3002.3
Specification for Lap Cement Used with Asphalt Roll Roofing, Nonfibered,
Asbestos Fibered and Nonasbestos Fibered Table R905. 9.2, Table R905.1 1.2
Specification for Type PSM Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Sewer Pipe and Fittings Table P3002.2,
Table P3002.3
Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe (DR-PR) Based On
Controlled Outside Diameter Table M2 101.1
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
771
REFERENCED STANDARDS
D 3161—09
D 3201— 08a
D 3212—07
D 3309— 96a (2002)
D 331 1—08
D 3350—08
D 3462—09
D 3468—99 (2006)e01
D 3679—09
D 3737—08
D 3747—79 (2007)
D3909— 97b(2004)el
D 3957—06
D 4022—07
D 4068—01
D 4318—05
D 4434/D 4434M— 09
D 4479—07
D 4551—96 (2008)el
D 4586—07
D 4601—08
D 4637—08
D 4829— 08a
D4869— 05e01
D 4897—01
D 4990— 97a (2005)e01
D 5019— 07a
D 5055—09
D 5456—09
D 5516—03
D 5643—06
D 5664—08
D 5665— 99a (2006)
D 5726—98 (2005)
D 6083— 05e01
D 6162— 00a (2008)
D 6163—00 (2008)
D6164— 05el
D 6222—08
ASTM— continued
Test Method for Wind Resistance of Asphalt Shingles (Fan Induced Method) R905.2.4.1,
Table R905.2.4. 1(2). R905.16.3
Test Method for Hygroscopic Properties of Fire-retardant Wood and Wood-base Products R802. 1.3.7
Specification for Joints for Drain and Sewer Plastic Pipes
Using Flexible Elastomeric Seals P3003.3.1, P3003.8.1, P3003.9. 1 ,
P3003.14.1.P3003.17.2
Specification for Polybutylene (PB) Plastic Hot- and Cold-water Distribution System Table M2 101 . 1
Specification for Drain, Waste and Vent (DWV) Plastic Fittings Patterns P3002.3
Specification for Polyethylene Plastic Pipe and Fitting Materials TableM2101.l
Specification for Asphalt Shingles Made From Glass Felt and
Surfaced with Mineral Granules R905.2.4
Specification for Liquid-applied Neoprene and Chlorosulfanated Polyethylene
Used in Roofing and Waterproofing R905.15.2
Specification for Rigid Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Siding Table R703 .4, R703.ll
Practice for Establishing Allowable Properties for Structural Glued
Laminated Timber (Glulam) R502.1.5,R602.1.2,R802.1.4
Specification for Emulsified Asphalt Adhesive for Adhering Roof Insulation Table R905.9.2,
Table R905. 11.2
Specification for Asphalt Roll Roofing (Glass Felt)
Surfaced with Mineral Granules R905.2.8.2, R905.5.4, Table R905.9.2
Standard Practices for Establishing Stress Grades for Structural
Members Used in Log Buildings R502.1.6,R602.1.3,R802.1.5
Specification for Coal Tar Roof Cement, Asbestos Containing Table R905.9.2
Specification for Chlorinated Polyethylene (CPE)
Sheeting for Concealed Water Containment Membrane P2709.2, P2709.2.2
Test Methods for Liquid Limit, Plastic Limit and Plasticity Index of Soils R403. 1.8.1
Specification for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) Sheet Roofing R905.13.2
Specification for Asphalt Roof Coatings-asbestos-free Table R905.9.2
Specification for Poly (Vinyl) Chloride (PVC) Plastic Flexible
Concealed Water-containment Membrane P2709.2,P2709.2.1
Specification for Asphalt Roof Cement-asbestos-free TableR905.9.2
Specification for Asphalt-coated Glass Fiber Base Sheet Used in Roofing TableR905.9.2
Specification for EPDM Sheet Used in Single-ply Roof Membrane R905.12.2
Test Method for Expansion Index of Soils R403. 1.8.1
Specification for Asphalt-saturated (Organic Felt) Underlayment
Used in Steep Slope Roofing R905.2.3, R905.2.7.2, R905.4.3, R905.4.3.2,
R905.5.3, R905.5.3.2, R905.6.3, R905.6.3.2,
R905.7.3, R905.7.3.2, R905.8.3, R905.8.3.2
Specification for Asphalt Coated Glass-fiber Venting
Base Sheet Used in Roofing Table R905.9.2
Specification for Coal Tar Glass Felt Used in Roofing and Waterproofing TableR905.9.2
Specification for Reinforced Nonvulcanized Polymeric
Sheet Used in Roofing Membrane R905.12.2
Specification for Establishing and Monitoring Structural
Capacities of Prefabricated Wood I-joists R502. 1 .4
Standard Specification for Evaluation of Structural
Composite Lumber Products R502.1 .8, R602.14, R802.1.6
Test Method for Evaluating the Flexural Properties of Fire-retardant-treated
Softwood Plywood Exposed to the Elevated Temperatures R802. 1.3.5.1
Specification for Coal Tar Roof Cement Asbestos-free TableR905.9.2
Test Methods For Evaluating the Effects of Fire-retardant Treatments and Elevated
Temperatures on Strength Properties of Fire-retardant-treated Lumber R802.1.3.5.2
Specification for Thermoplastic Fabrics Used in Cold-applied
Roofing and Waterproofing Table R905.9.2
Specification for Thermoplastic Fabrics Used in Hot-applied
Roofing and Waterproofing Table R905.9.2
Specification for Liquid-applied Acrylic Coating Used in Roofing Table R905.9.2, Table R905.1 1 .2,
Table R905. 14.3, R905. 15.2
Specification for Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS) Modified Bituminous Sheet
Materials Using a Combination of Polyester and Glass Fiber Reinforcements Table R905.1 1.2
Specification for Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS) Modified Bituminous Sheet
Materials Using Glass Fiber Reinforcements TableR905. 1 1 .2
Specification for Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS) Modified Bituminous
Sheet Materials Using Polyester Reinforcements Table R905.1 1.2
Specification for Atactic Polypropylene (APP) Modified Bituminous
Sheet Materials Using Polyester Reinforcements Table R905.1 1 .2
772
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
REFERENCED STANDARDS
ASTM — continued
D 6223 — 02 Specification for Atactic Polypropylene (APP) Modified Bituminous
Sheet Materials Using a Combination of Polyester and Glass Fiber Reinforcement Table R905.ll. 2
D 6298 — 05el Specification for Fiberglass-reinforced Styrene Butadiene Styrene (SBS)
Modified Bituminous Sheets with a Factory Applied Metal Surface Table R905.1 1.2
D 6305 — 08 Practice for Calculating Bending Strength Design Adjustment Factors for
Fire-retardant-treated Ply wood Roof Sheathing R802.1.3.5.1
D 6380—03 (2009) Standard Specification for Asphalt Roll Roofing (Organic Felt) R905.2.8.2, R905.3.3,
R905.5.4
D 6694 — 08 Standard Specification for Liquid-applied Silicone Coating Used in Spray
Polyurethane Foam Roofing Systems Table R905.14.3,R905.15.2
D 6754 — 02 Standard Specification for Ketone-ethylene-ester-based Sheet Roofing R905. 1 3.2
D 6757 — 07 Standard Specification for Inorganic Underlayment for
Use with Steep Slope Roofing Products R905.2.3 , R905.2.7.2
D D 84 [_08 Standard Practice for Calculating Design Value Treatment Adjustment
Factors for Fire-retardant-treated Lumber R802.1.3.5.2
D 6878— 08el Standard Specification for Thermoplastic-polyolefin-based Sheet Roofing R905.13.2
D 6947—07 Standard Specification for Liquid Applied Moisture Cured Polyurethane Coating
Used in Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing System Table R905. 14.3,R905.15.2
D 7032 — 08 Standard Specification for Establishing Performance Ratings for Wood-plastic
Composite Deck Boards and Guardrail Systems (Guards or Handrails) R317.4, R317.4.1, R507.3
D 7158 — 08d Standard Test Method for Wind Resistance of Sealed Asphalt Shingles
(Uplift Force/Uplift Resistance Method) R905.2.4.1,
Table R905.2.4. 1(1)
E 84—09 Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials R202, R302.9.3, R302.9.4,
R302.10.1,R302.10.2, R316.3,
R316.4,R316.5.9,R316.5.11,
R802.1.3, M1601.3, M1601.5.2
E 90 — 04 Test Method for Laboratory Measurement of Airborne
Sound Transmission Loss of Building Partitions and Elements ART 02, AK1 02. 1.1
E 96/E 96M — 05 Test Method for Water Vapor Transmission of Materials , R202, Table R6 1 3 .3 . 1 ,
MI411.5,M1601.4.5
E 108— 07a Test Methods for Fire Tests of Roof Coverings R902.1
E 1 19— 08a Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials R302.2, R302.3,
R302.4.1,R316.4
E 136— 09 Test Method for Behavior of Materials in a Vertical Tube Furnace at 750°C R202, Table R302.1(l),
Table R302. 1(2), R302.ll
E 283 — 04 Test Method for Determining the Rate of Air Leakage Through Exterior
Windows, Curtain Walls and Doors Under Specified Pressure
Differences Across the Specimen N 1 102.4.4
E 330 — 02 Test Method for Structural Performance of Exterior Windows,
Curtain Walls and Doors by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference R612.4, R612.5, R703.1.2
E 331 — 00 (2009) Test Method for Water Penetration of Exterior Windows, Skylights, Doors and Curtain
Walls by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference R703.1.1
E 492 — 09 Specification for Laboratory Measurement of Impact Sound Transmission
through Floor-ceiling Assemblies Using the Tapping Machine AK1 03
E 8 14 — 08b Test Method for Fire Tests of Through-penetration Firestops R302.4. 1 .2
E 970— 08a Test Method for Critical Radiant Flux of Exposed Attic Floor Insulation
Using a Radiant Heat Energy Source R302. 10.5
E 1 509—04 Standard Specification for Room Heaters, Pellet Fuel-burning Type M1410.1
E 1602—03 Guide for Construction of Solid Fuel Burning Masonry Heaters R 1002.2
E 1886 — 05 Test Method for Performance of Exterior Windows, Curtain Walls, Doors
and Storm Shutters Impacted by Missies and Exposed
to Cyclic Pressure Differentials R301.2.1.2,R612.6.1
E 1996—09 Standard Specification for Performance of Exterior Windows, Curtain
Walls, Doors and Impact Protective Systems Impacted by
Windborne Debris in Hurricanes R301.2.1.2,R612.6.1
E 2178 — 03 Standard Test Method for Air Permeance of Building Materials R202
E 2231 — 04 Standard Practice for Specimen Preparation and Mounting of Pipe and
Duct Insulation Materials to Assess Surface Burning Characteristics Ml 601. 3
E 2273—03 Standard Test Method for Determining the Drainage Efficiency of Exterior
Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) Clad Wall Assemblies R703.9.2
E 2568 — 09el Standard Specification for PB Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) R703.9.1 ,R703.9.2
E 2570 — 07 Standard Test Methods for Evaluating Water-resistive Barrier (WRB) Coatings
Used Under Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) or EIFS with Drainage R703.9.2. 1
E 2634—08 Standard Specification for Flat Wall Insulating Concrete Form (ICF) Systems R404.1. 2.3.6.1, R61 1.4.4
F 405—05 Specification for Corrugated Polyethylene (PE) Pipe and Fittings Table P3009.14.10, Table P3302.1,
Table AO 103. 10
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE® 77 3
REFERENCED STANDARDS
F 409—02(2008)
F 437—06
F 438—04
F 439—06
F441/F441M— 02(2008)
F 442/F 442M— 99
(2005)el
F 477—08
F 493—04
F 628—08
F 656—08
F 714—08
F 876— 08b
F 877—07
F 891—07
F 1055—98 (2006)
F 1281—07
F 1282—06
F 1346—91 (2003)
F 1412—09
F 1488—03
F 1554— 07a
F 1667—05
F 1807—08
F 1866—07
F 1960—09
F 1973—08
F 1974—08
F 1986—01 (2006)
F 2080—08
ASTM — continued
Specification for Thermoplastic Accessible and Replaceable Plastic Tube and
Tubular Fittings Table P2701.1,
P2702.2, P2702.3
Specification for Threaded Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride)
(CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80 TableP2905.6
Specification for Socket-type Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC)
Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 40 TableP2905.6
Specification for Socket-type Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC)
Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80 Table P2905.6
Specification for Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC)
Plastic Pipe, Schedules 40 and 80 Table P2905.4, Table P2905.5
Specification for Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride)
(CPVC) Plastic Pipe (SDR-PR) Table P2905.4, Table P2905.5
Specification for Elastomeric Seals (Gaskets) for Joining Plastic Pipe P2905.17,P3003.18
Specification for Solvent Cements for Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride)
(CPVC) Plastic Pipe and Fittings P2905.9.1.2
Specification for Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) Schedule 40 Plastic Drain,
Waste and Vent Pipe with a Cellular Core Table P3002.1(l),
Table P3002.1 (2), Table P3002.2,
Table P3002.3, P3003.3.2, P3003.8.2
Specification for Primers for Use in Solvent Cement Joints of Poly (Vinyl Chloride)
(PVC) Plastic Pipe and Fittings P2905.9.1.3,
P3003.9.2, P3003.14.2
Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe (SDR-PR)
Based on Outside Diameter TableP3002.2
Specification for Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing Table M2101.1, Table P2905.4,
Table P2905.5
Specification for Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) Plastic Hot- and
Cold-water Distribution Systems Table M2101.1,
Table P2905.4, Table P2905.5, Table P2905.6
Specification for Coextruded Poly (Vinyl Chloride)
(PVC) Plastic Pipe with a Cellular Core P2905.6, Table P3002.1(l),
Table P3002.1(2), Table P3002.2, Table P3302.I
Specification for Electrofusion Type Polyethylene Fittings for Outside
Diameter Controlled Polyethylene Pipe and Tubing Table M2101.1.M2104.2.1.2
Specification for Cross-linked Polyethylene/Aluminum/Cross-linked
Polyethylene (PEX-AL-PEX) Pressure Pipe Table M2101.1, Table P2905.4,
Table P2905.5, Table P2905.6, P2505.1 1.1
Specification for Polyethylene/Aluminum/Polyethylene (PE-AL-PE)
Composite Pressure Pipe Table M2101.1,
Table P2905.4, Table P2905.5,
Table P2905.6, P2905. 11.1
Performance Specification for Safety Covers and Labeling Requirements for
All Covers for Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs AG105.2, AG105.5
Specification for Polyolefin Pipe and Fittings for Corrosive
Waste Drainage Table P3002. 1(2), Table P3002.2,
Table P3002.3, P3003. 16.1
Specification for Coextruded Composite Pipe Table P3002.1(l), Table P3002.1(2),
Table P3002.2, Table P3009.14.10, Table AO103.10
Specification for Anchor Bolts, Steel, 36, 55 and 105-ksi Yield Strength R61 1.5.2.2
Specification for Driven Fasteners. Nails, Spikes and Staples Table R703.4, R905.2.5
Specification for Metal Insert Fittings Utilizing a Copper Crimp Ring
for SDR9 Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing Table M2101.1, Table P2905.6
Specification for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Schedule 40 Drainage and
DWV Fabricated Fittings TableP3002.3
Specification for Cold Expansion Fittings with PEX Reinforcing Rings for Use with
Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing Table M2101.1, Table P2905.6
Standard Specification for Factory Assembled Anodeless Risers and Transition
Fittings in Polyethylene (PE) and Polyamide 11 (PA 1 1 ) Fuel Gas Distribution Systems G2415.15.2
Specification for Metal Insert Fittings for Polyethylene/ Aluminum/Polyethylene and
Cross-linked Polyethylene/ Aluminum/Cross-linked
Polyethylene Composite Pressure Pipe P2505.1 l.l,TableP2905.6
Multilayer Pipe Type 2, Compression Joints for Hot and Cold Drinking Water Systems Table P2905.4,
Table P2905.5, Table P2905.6
Specification for Cold-expansion Fittings with Metal Compression-sleeves
for Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) Pipe P2905.6
774
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
REFERENCED STANDARDS
ASTM — continued
F 2090 — 08 Specification for Window Fall Prevention Devices — with Emergency
Escape (Egress) Release Mechanisms R612.2,R612.3
F 2098—08 Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Clamps for SDR9 PEX
Tubing to Metal Insert Fittings Table M2101 .1, Table P2905.6
F 2159 — 08 Standard Specification for Plastic Insert Fittings Utilizing a
Copper Crimp Ring for SDR9 Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing P2905.6
F 2200 — 05 Standard Specification for Automated Vehicular Gate Construction AR103.1
F 2262 — 05 Standard Specification for Cross-linked Polyethylene/ Aluminum/Cross-linked
Polyethylene Tubing OD Controlled SDR9 Table P2905.4, Table P2905.5
F 2389— 07el Standard for Pressure-rated Polypropylene (PP) Piping Systems Table M2101.1,
Table P2905.4, Table P2905.5,
Table P2905.6, P2905. 10.1
F 2434 — 08 Standard Specification for Metal Insert Fittings Utilizing a Copper
Crimp Ring for Polyethylene/Aluminum/Cross-linked
Polyethylene (PEX-AL-PEX) Tubing Table P2905.6
F 2623—08 Standard Specification for Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PE-RT) SDRG Tubing Table M2 10 1 . 1
F 2735—09 Standard Specification for SDR9 Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) and
Raised Temperature (PE-RT) Tubing Table 605.3, Table 605.4, Table M2101.1
F 2769—09 Polyethylene or Raised Temperature (PE-RT) Plastic Hot and
Cold-Water Tubing and Distribution Systems Table M21 01 . 1 , Table P2905.4
AWPA
American Wood Protection Association
P.O. Box 361784
Birmingham, AL 35236-1784
Referenced
in code
Title section number
All Timber Products — Preservative Treatment by Pressure Processes R902.2
Standard for the Care of Preservative-treated Wood Products R317.1.1.R318.1 .2
USE CATEGORY SYSTEM: User Specification for Treated Wood
Except Section 6 Commodity Specification H R317.1, R322.1.8, R402.1.2,
R504.3, Table R905.8.5
Standard
reference
number
CI— 03
M4— 08
U1— 11
AWS
American Welding Society
550 N. W. LeJeune Road
Miami, FL 33126
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
A5.8— 04
Specifications for Filler Metals for Brazing and Braze Welding P3003.5.1,P3003.10.1,P3OO3.11.1
AWWA
Standard
reference
number
American Water Works Association
6666 West Quincy Avenue
Denver, CO 80235
Referenced
in code
Title section number
Standard for Cement-mortar Lining for Ductile-iron Pipe and Fittings for Water P2905.4
Standard for Ductile-iron and Gray-iron Fittings, 3 Inches through 48 Inches, for Water Table P2905.6,
Table P3002.3
Standard for Flanged Ductile-iron Pipe with Ductile-iron or
Gray-iron Threaded Flanges Table P2905.4
Standard for Ductile-iron Pipe, Centrifugally Cast, for Water Table P2905.4
Standard for Ductile-iron Compact Fittings for Water Service TableP2905.6
Double Check Valve Backflow Prevention Assembly Table P2902.3,P2902.3.6
Reduced-pressure Principle Backflow Prevention Assembly Table P2902.3,
P2902.3.5,P2902.5.1
C 104— 98
C110/A21.10— 03
C115/A21.15— 99
C151/A2 1.5 1—02
C153/A21 .53—00
C510— 00
C511— 00
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
775
REFERENCED STANDARDS
AWWA — continued
C901 — 08 Polyethylene (PE) Pressure Pipe and Tubing V 2 in. (13 mm)
through 3 in. (76 mm) for Water Service P2905.4
C904 — 06 Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX) Pressure Pipe, 7 2 in. (1 2 mm) through 3 in. (76 mm)
for Water Service P2905.4
Canadian General Standards Board
Place du Portage 111, 6B1
1 1 Laurier Street
Gatineau, Quebec, Canada KIA 1G6
Referenced
in code
Title section number
Polyvinyl Chloride Roofing and Waterproofing Membrane R905.13.2
Roofing and Waterproofing Membrane, Sheet Applied, Elastomeric R905.12.2
Membrane, Modified Bituminous, Prefabricated and Reinforced for
Roofing — with December 1985 Amendment TableR905.l 1.2
Standard
reference
number
CAN/CGSB-37.54— 95
37-GP-52M— (1984)
37-GP-56M— (1980)
CI **k fL--^ i
IkJlI
Cast Iron Soil Pipe Institute
5959 Shallowford Road, Suite 419
Chattanooga, TN 37421
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
301 — 04a Standard Specification for Hubless Cast Iron Soil Pipe and Fittings for Sanitary
and Storm Drain, Waste and Vent Piping Applications Table P3002.1(l),
Table P3002.1(2), Table P3002.2,
Table P3002.3, P3005.2.9, Table P3302.1
3 1 — 04 Standard Specification for Coupling for Use in Connection with Hubless
Cast Iron Soil Pipe and Fittings for Sanitary and Storm Drain,
Waste and Vent Piping Applications P3003.6.3
f^JL A
Composite Panel Association
1 9465 Deerfield Avenue, Suite 306
Leesburg, VA 20176
Referenced
in code
Title section number
Basic Hardboard Table R602.3(2)
Prefinished Hardboard Paneling R702.5
Hardboard Siding TableR703.4
Standard
reference
number
ANSI A135.4— 04
ANSI A 135.5— 04
ANSI A135.6— 06
C1P*d £~^ Consumer Product Safety Commission
Jl LJ \_y 4330 East West Highway
Bethesda, MD 20814-4408
Standard Referenced
reference j n coc j e
number Title section number
16 CFR, Part 1201 — (2002) Safety Standard for Architectural Glazing R308.1.1, R308.3.1, Table R308.3.1(l)
16 CFR, Part 1209— (2002) Interim Safety Standard for Cellulose Insulation ' ' R302 10 3
16 CFR, Part 1404— (2002) Cellulose Insulation R302.10.3
776
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
REFERENCED STANDARDS
CSA
Canadian Standards Association
5060 Spectrum Way
Mississauga, Ontario. Canada L4N 5N6
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
AAMA/WDMA/CSA
101/I.S.2/A440— 11
ANS1/CSA America
FCI— 03
ASMEA1 12.18.1/
CSA B125.1— 2005
ASMEA1 12.18.2/
CSA B 125.2— 05
ASMEA1 12.9.2/
CSA B45. 1—08
ASMEA1 12.19.1/
CSAB45.2— 02
ASMEA1 12.19.3/
CSA Requirement 3 — 88
CSA 8—93
0325—07
0437-Series— 93
CAN/CSA A257.1M— 92
CAN/CSA A257.2M— 92
CAN/CSA A257.3M— 92
CAN/CSA B64.1.1— 01
CAN/CSA B64.2— 01
CAN/CSA B64.2.2— 01
CAN/CSA B64.3— 01
CAN/CSA B64.4— 01
101/I.S.2/A440— 08
B45.4— 02
B45.5— 02 (R2008)
B45.9— 99 (R2008)
B64. 1.2—07
B64.1.3— 07
B64.2.1— 07
B 64.2. 1.1— 07
B64.3— 07
B64.4.1— 07
B64.5— 07
B64.5.1— 07
B64.6— 07
B64.7— 07
B125.1— 01
B 125.3—05
B137.1— 05
B137.2— 05
B137.3— 05
B 137.5—05
B 137. 6— 05
B 137.9—05
North American Fenestration Standard/Specification for
Windows, Doors and Unit Skylights
Stationary Fuel Cell Power Systems
.Nl 102.4.3
. .M1903.1
Plumbing Supply Fittings P2708.4, P2722.1. P2722.2, P2722.3
Plumbing Waste Fittings Table P2701.1.P2702.2
Ceramic Plumbing Fixtures Table P2701.1, P2711.1, P2712.1
Enameled Cast-iron and Enameled Steel Plumbing Fixtures Table 2701 . 1 , P27 1 1 . 1
Manually Operated Gas Valves for Use in House Piping Systems Table G2420. 1.1
Requirements for Gas Fired Log Lighters for Wood Burning Fireplaces —
with revisions through January 1999 G2433.1
Construction Sheathing R503.2.I,R602.3, R604.1.R903.2.1
Standards on OSB and Waferboard (Reaffirmed 2006) R503.2.1, R602.3, R604.1, R803.2.1
Circular Concrete Culvert, Storm Drain, Sewer Pipe and Fittings Table P3002.2
Reinforced Circular Concrete Culvert, Storm Drain, Sewer Pipe and Fittings Table P3002.2
Joints for Circular Concrete Sewer and Culvert Pipe,
Manhole Sections and Fittings Using Rubber Gaskets P30O3.7,P3OO3.18
Vacuum Breakers, Atmospheric Type (AVB) Table P2902.2, P2902.3.2
Vacuum Breakers, Hose Connection Type (HCVP) Table P2902.2, P2902.3.2
Vacuum Breakers, Hose Connection Type (HCVP) with
Automatic Draining Feature Table P2902.2, P2902.3.2
Backflow Preventers, Dual Check Valve Type with Atmospheric Port (DCAP) Table P2902.2, P2902.3.3
Backflow Preventers, Reduced Pressure Principle Type (RP) Table P2902.3,
Specifications for Windows, Doors and Unit Skylights R308.6.9,R612.6
Stainless Steel Plumbing Fixtures Table P2701. 1, P271 1.1, P27 12.1
Plastic Plumbing Fixtures Table P2701.1,P2711.2,P2712.1
Macerating Systems and Related Components P3007.1 , P3007.2. 1 , P3007.5
Pressure Vacuum Breakers (PVB) Table P2902.2,P2902. 3.4
Spill Resistant Pressure Vacuum Breakers (SRPVB) P2902.3
Hose Connection Vacuum Breakers (HCVB)
with Manual Draining Feature TableP2902.2, P2902.3.2
Hose Connection Dual Check Vacuum Breakers (HCDVB) Table P2902.2, P2902.3.2
Dual Check Backflow Preventers with Atmospheric Port (DCAP) Table P2902.2
Reduced Pressure Principle for Fire Sprinklers (RPF) Table P2902.2
Double Check Backflow Preventers (DCVA) Table P2902,2,P2902. 3.6
Double Check Valve Backflow Preventers,
Type for Fire Systems (DCVAF) Table P2902.2, P2902.3.6
Dual Check Valve Backflow Preventers (DuC) Table P2902.3
Laboratory Faucet Vacuum Breakers (LFVB) Table P2902.2, P2902.3.2
Plumbing Fittings Table P2701.1, P2708.3, P2722.2, P2722.3
Plumbing Fittings Table 2701. 1, P2713.3, P2721.2
Polyethylene (PE) Pipe, Tubing and Fittings for
Cold Water Pressure Services Table P2905.4, Table P2905.6
Polyvinylchloride PVC Injection-moulded Gasketed Fittings for
Pressure Applications TableP2905.6
Rigid Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Pipe for Pressure Applications Table P2905.4, P3003.9.2,
P3003.14.2
Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing Systems for Pressure Applications Table P2905.4,
Table P2905.5, Table P2905.6
Chlorinated polyvinylchloride CPVC Pipe, Tubing and Fittings For Hot- and
Cold-water Distribution Systems ". Table P2905.4,
Table P2905.5, Table 2905.6
Polyethylene/ Aluminum/Polyethylene (PE-AL-PE)
Composite Pressure Pipe Systems P2505. 11.1, Table P2905.4
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
777
REFERENCED STANDARDS
B137.10M— 05
B137.ll — 05
B181.1— 06
B 181. 2— 06
B 181. 3— 06
B 182.2—06
B 182.4—06
B 182.6— 06
Bl 82.8—06
B356— 00
B483.1— 07
B602— 05
LC3— 00
CSA — continued
Cross-linked Polyethylene/ Aluminum/Polyethylene (PE-AL-PE)
Composite Pressure Pipe Systems Table M2101.1, P2505.1 1.1,
Table P2905.4, Table P2905.5
Polypropylene (PP-R) Pipe and Fittings for Pressure Applications Table P2905.4.1, Table 2905.4,
Table P2905.6
Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) Drain, Waste and Vent Pipe
and Pipe Fittinss Table P3002.1(l), Table P3002.1(2),
Table P3002.2, Table P3002.3, P3003.3.2, P3003.8.2
Polyvinylchloride (PVC) and chlorinated polyvinylchloride (CPVC)
Drain, Waste and Vent Pipe and Pipe Fittings Table P3002.1(l), Table P3002. 1(2),
Table P3002.2, Table P3002.3, P3003.9.2, P3003.14.2,
P3008.2, Table P3302.1
Polyolefin and polyvinylidene (PVDF) Laboratory Drainage Systems Table P3002.1(l),
Table P3002. 1(2), Table P3002.2,
Table P3002.3, P3003.16.1
PSM Type polyvinylchloride (PVC) Sewer Pipe and Fittings Table P3002.1(l), Table P3002.1(2),
Table P3002.2, Table P3002.3, Table P3302.1
Profile polyvinylchloride (PVC) Sewer Pipe & Fittings Table P3002.2,
Table P3002.3, Table P3302.1
Profile Polyethylene Sewer Pipe and Fittings Table P3302. 1
Profile Polyethylene (PE) Storm Sewer and Drainage Pipe and Fittings Table P3302.1
Water Pressure Reducing Valves for Domestic Water Supply Systems P2903.3J
Drinking Water Treatment Systems P2908.1, P2908.2
Mechanical Couplings for Drain, Waste and Vent Pipe and Sewer Pipe P3003.3.1, P3003.6.3,
P3003.7,P3003.8.1,P3003.14.1,P3003.15,P3003.17.2
Appliance Stands and Drain Pans P2801.5
P2902.3.5, P2902.5.1
Cedar Shake & Shingle Bureau
P. O. Box 1 1 78
Sumas, WA 98295-1178
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
CSSB— 97
Grading and Packing Rules for Western Red Cedar Shakes and Western
Red Shingles of the Cedar Shake and Shingle Bureau
R702.6, R703.5, Table R905.7.4,
Table R905.8.5
Door and Access Systems Manufacturers Association International
1300 Summer Avenue
Cleveland, OH 441 15-2851
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
108—05
1 15—05
Standard Method for Testing Garage Doors: Determination of Structural
Performance Under Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference
Standard Method for Testing Garage Doors: Determination of Structural
Performance Under Missile Impact and Cyclic Wind Pressure
. . . R612 .4
.R301.2.1.2
DOC
United States Department of Commerce
1401 Constitution Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20230
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
PS 1—09
Structural Plywood
R404.2.1, Table R404.2.3, R503.2.1,
R602.3, R604.1, R6 1 3.3.2, R803.2.1
778
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
REFERENCED STANDARDS
PS 2—10
PS 20—05
DOC— continued
Performance Standard for Wood-based Structural-use Panels R404.2. 1 , Table R404.2.3,
R503.2.1,R602.3,R604.1,
R613.3.2, Table 613.3.2, R803.2.1
American Softwood Lumber Standard R404.2. 1 , R502. 1 , R602. 1 ., R802.1
DOTn
Department of Transportation
1 200 New Jersey Avenue SE
East Building, 2nd floor
Washington, DC 20590
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
49 CFR, Parts 192.281(e)
& 192.283 (b) (2009)
Transportation of Natural and Other Gas by Pipeline: Minimum Federal Safety Standards G2414.6.1
^ . ..
Federal Emergency Management Agency
500 C Street, SW
Washington, DC 20472
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
FA/TB-2— 08
FEMA-TB-11— 01
Flood-damage Resistant Materials Requirements
Crawlspace Construction for Buildings Located in Special Flood Hazard Area
.R322.1.8
. . R408.7
FM
Factory Mutual Global Research
Standards Laboratories Department
1301 Atwood Avenue, P. O. Box 7500
Johnson, RI 02919
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
4450— (1989)
4880— (2005)
Approval Standard for Class 1 Insulated Steel Deck Roofs — with
Supplements through July 1992
American National Standard for Evaluating Insulated Wall or
Wall and Roof/Ceiling Assemblies, Plastic Interior Finish Materials,
Plastic Exterior Building Panels, Wall/Ceiling Coating Systems,
Interior or Exterior Finish Systems
R906.1
R316.4,R316.6
Gypsum Association
810 First Street, Northeast, Suite 510
Washington, DC 20002-4268
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
GA-253— 07
Application of Gypsum Sheathing Table R602.3(l)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
779
REFERENCED STANDARDS
HPVA
Hardwood Plywood & Veneer Association
1 825 Michael Faraday Drive
Resfxm, Virginia 20190-5350
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
ANSI/HP- 1—2009
Standard for Hardwood and Decorative Plywood R702.5
HVI
Home Ventilating Institute
1000 N. Rand Road, Ste 214
Wauconda, IL 60084
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
HVI 9 16—09
Airflow Test Procedure Table Ml 507.3
International Code Council, Inc.
500 New Jersey Avenue, NW
6th Floor
Washington, DC 20001
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
IBC— 12
ICC/ANSI Al 17. 1— 09
ICC 400— 12
ICC 500—08
ICC 600—08
IECC— 12
IFC— 12
IFGC— 12
IMC— 12
IPC— 12
IPMC— 12
IPSDC— 12
Internationa] Building Code® R101.2, R110.2, R301.1, R301.1.3, R301.2.2.1.1,
R301.2.2.1.2, R301.2.2.4, R301.3, R308.5, R320.1, R321.3,
R322.1, R403.1.8, R602.10.3(3), R606.12.2.1, R802.1.3.4,
R905.10.3,NU02.2.10, G2402.3, Table AH107.4(1), AH107.4.3
Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities R321.3
Standard on the Design and Construction of Log Structures R301.I.I
ICC/NSSA Standard on the Design and Construction of Storm Shelters R323.1
Standard for Residential Construction in High- wind Regions R301.2.1.1
International Energy Conservation Code® N1101.2
International Fire Code® R102.7, M220I .7, G2402.3, G2412.2, G2423.1
International Fuel Gas Code® G2401.1, G2423.1
International Mechanical Code® Nl 103.2.2, G2402.3
International Plumbing Code® Table R301.2Q), R903.4. 1 , G2402.3, R2601.1, AO102.6
International Property Maintenance Code® R102.7
International Private Sewage Disposal Code® R322.1.7, AI101.1
ISO
International Organization lor Standardization
1, ch. de la Voie - Creuse
Case postale 56
CH-12I 1 Geneva 20, Switzerland
Standard
reference
number
15874—2002
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
Polypropylene Plastic Piping Systems for Hot and Cold Water Installations Table M2 10 1.1
MSS
Standard
reference
number
Manufacturers Standardization Society of the Valve and Fittings Industry
1 27 Park Street, Northeast
Vienna, V A 22180
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
SP-58— 93
Pipe Hangers and Supports — Materials, Design and Manufacture G2418.2
780
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
REFERENCED STANDARDS
NAIMA
North American Insulation Manufacturers Association
44 Canal Center Plaza, Suite 310
Alexandria, VA 22314
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
AH ] 16—09
Fibrous Glass Duct Construction Standards, Fifth Edition M1601.1.1
1 1 \_xlYAx\
National Concrete Masonry Association
1 3750 Sunrise Valley Drive
Herndon, VA 20171-4662
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
TR 68-A— 75
Design and Construction of Plain and Reinforced Concrete Masonry and
Basement and Foundation Walls
R404.1.1
NFPA
National Fire Protection Association
1 Batterymarch Park
Quincy, MA 02269
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
13—10
13D— 10
31—11
58—11
70—11
72—11
82—09
85—11
211—10
259—08
275—09
286—11
501—10
720—09
853—10
Installation of Sprinkler Systems R302.3
Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-family
Dwellings and Manufactured Homes R313.2.1, P2904. 1 , P2904.2, P2904.6.1
Installation of Oil-burning Equipment M1801.3.1.M1805.3
Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code G2412.2,G2414.6.2
National Electrical Code E3401.1,E3401.2,E4301.1,TableE4303.2,E4304.3,E4304.4
National Fire Alarm Code R314.1,R314.2
Standard on Incinerators and Waste Linen Handling Systems and Equipment G2427.2.3
Boiler and Construction Systems Hazards Code G2452. 1
Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents and Solid Fuel Burning Appliances R 1 002.5, G2427.5.5.1
Test Method for Potential Heat of Building Materials R31 6.5.7, R3 16.5.8
Standard Method of Fire Tests for the Evaluation of
Thermal Barriers Used Over Foam Plastic Insulation R316.4
Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Evaluating Contribution of Wall and
Ceiling Interior Finish to Room Fire Growth R302.9.4, R316.4,
R316.5.8,R316.6
Standard on Manufactured Housing R202, AE201
Standard for the Installation of Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detectors and Warning Equipment R316.4
Standard for the Installation of Stationary Fuel Cell Power Systems M1903.1
NSF
NSF International
789 N. Dixboro
Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Referenced
in code
Title section number
Plastics Piping System Components and Related Materials M1301.4,P2608.3,P2908.3
Drinking Water Treatment Units— Anesthetic Effects P29O8.1.P2908.3
Residential Cation Exchange Water Softeners P2908.1,P2908.3
Drinking Water Treatment Units— Health Effects P2908.1 , P2908.3
Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water Treatment Systems P2908.2,P2908.3
Drinking Water System Components— Health Effects P2608.5, P2722.1, P2903.9.4,
P2905.4, P2905.5, P2905.6, P2907.3
Standard
reference
number
14— 2008e
42— 2007ae
44—2007
53— 2007a
58—2007
61—2008
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
781
REFERENCED STANDARDS
PCA
Portland Cement Association
5420 Old Orchard Road
Skokie, IL 60077
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
100 — 10 Prescriptive Design of Exterior Concrete Walls for One- and
Two-family Dwellings (Pub. No. EB241) R301. 2.2.2.4, R30 1. 2.2.3.4, R404.1.2,
R404.1.2.2.1, R404.1.2.2.2, R404.1.2.4, R404.1.4.2,
R611.1, R61 1.2, R61 1.9.2, R61 1.9.3
SBCA
Structural Building Components Association
6300 Enterprise Lane
Madison, WI 53719
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
BCSI— 2008
CFS-BCSI— 2008
Building Component Safety Information Guide to Good Practice for Handling,
Installing, Restraining & Bracing of Metal Plate Connected Wood Trusses 502.11.2, 802.10.3
Guide to Good Practice for Handling, Installing & Bracing of Cold-formed Steel Trusses 505.1.3, 804.3.7
SMACNA
Sheet Metal & Air Conditioning Contractors National Assoc. Inc.
4021 Lafayette Center Road
Chantilly, VA 22021
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
SMACNA— 10
Fibrous Glass Duct Construction Standards (2003) MI601.1.1, M1604.4.1
JL 1V1i3
The Masonry Society
3970 Broadway, Suite 201 -D
Boulder, CO 80304
Referenced
in code
Title section number
Standard Method for Determining the Sound Transmission
Class Rating for Masonry Walls AK102.1.1
Building Code Requirements for Masonry Structures R404. 1.1, R606. 1 , R606. 1.1,
R606.12.1.R606.12.2.3.1,
R606. 12.3.2, Table R703.4
Direct Design Handbook for Masonry Structures R606.1, R606.1.1, R606.12.1,
R606. 12.3.1
Specification for Masonry Structures R404.1.1,R606.12.3.1, Table R703.4
Standard
reference
number
302-
-07
402-
-11
403-
-10
602-
-11
TPI
Truss Plate Institute
583 D'Onofrio Drive, Suite 200
Madison, WI 53719
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
TPI 1—2002
National Design Standard for Metal-plate-connected
Wood Truss Construction
R502.11.1,R802.10.2
782
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
REFERENCED STANDARDS
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.
333 Piingsten Road
Northibrook, 1L 60062
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
17—2008
55A— 04
58—96
80—07
103—01
127—08
174—04
180—03
181—05
181 A— 05
18 IB— 05
217—06
263—03
325—02
343—97
378—06
441—10
508—99
536—97
641—95
651—05
723—03
726—95
727—06
729—03
730—03
732—95
737—07
790—04
795—06
834—04
842—07
858—05
875—09
896—93
923—08
959—01
1026—07
1040—96
1042—94
1256—02
1261—01
1453—04
1479—03
1482—10
Vent or Chimney Connector Dampers for Oil-fired Appliances Ml 802.2.2
Materials for Built-up Roof Coverings R905.9.2
Steel Underground Tanks for Flammable and Combustible Liquids —
with revisions through July 1998 M2201.1
Steel Tanks for Oil-burner Fuel M2201.1
Factory-built Chimneys for Residential Type and Building Heating
Appliances— with revisions through March 2010 R202, R1005.3, G2430.1
Factory-built Fireplaces — with revisions through January 2010 R 1 001. 1 1, R 1004.1,
R1004.4, R 1 005.4, G2445.7,
Household Electric Storage Tank Water Heaters —
with revisions through November 2005 M2005.1
Liquid-level Indicating Gauges for Oil Burner Fuels — with revision through March 2007 M2201 .5
Factory-made Air Ducts and Air Connectors — with revisions through May 2003 M1601.2,M1601.4.1
Closure Systems for Use with Rigid Air Ducts and Air Connectors —
with revisions through December 1998 M1601.2,M1601.4.1
Closure Systems for Use with Flexible Air Ducts and Air Connectors —
with revisions through August 2003 M160l.2,M1601.4.1
Single- and Multiple-station Smoke Alarms — with revisions through April 2010 R314.1
Standards for Fire Test of Building Construction and Materials —
with revisions through October 2007 Table R302.1(2), R302.2, R302.3, R302.4.1, R316.4
Door, Drapery, Gate, Louver and Window Operations and Systems —
with revisions through February 201 R309.4
Pumps for Oil-burning Appliances — with revisions through May 2002 M2204.1
Draft Equipment M1804.2.6
Gas Vents G2426.1
Industrial Control Equipment — with revisions through April 2010 M141 1.3.1
Flexible Metallic Hose — with revisions through June 2003 M2202.3
Type L, Low-temperature Venting Systems —
with revisions through July 2009 R202, R1003.1 1.5, M1804.2.4, G2426.1
Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 Rigid PVC Conduit and Fittings—
with revisions through March 2010 G2414.6.3
Standard for Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of
Building Materials— with revisions through May 2005 R302.9.3, R302.9.4, R302.10.1, R302.10.2,
R316.3, R316.5.9, R316.5.10, R316.6 , R802.1.3, M1601.3
Oil-fired Boiler Assemblies— with revisions through April 2010 M2001.1.I,M2006.1
Oil-fired Central Furnaces — with revisions through April 2010 M1402.1
Oil-fired Floor Furnaces — with revisions through April 2010 M1408.1
Oil-fired Wall Furnaces — with revisions through April 2010 M1409.1
Oil-fired Storage Tank Water Heaters — with revisions through April 20 1 M2005 . 1
Fireplaces Stoves M1414.1, M1901.2
Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Roof Coverings R902.1
Commercial-industrial Gas Heating Equipment —
with revisions through April 2010 G2442. 1, G2452. 1
Heating, Water Supply and Power Boilers — Electric — with revisions
through December 2009 M2001.1.1
Valves for Flammable Fluids M2204.2
Household Electric Ranges — with revisions through November 2007 Ml 901 .2
Electric Dry-bath Heaters M1902.2
Oil-burning Stoves — with revisions through May 2010 M1410.1
Microwave Cooking Appliances — with revisions through June 2010 Ml 504.1
Medium Heat Appliance Factory-built Chimneys —
with revisions through June 2010 R1005.6
Electric Household Cooking and Food Serving Appliances M1901 .2
Fire Test of Insulated Wall Construction — with revisions through June 2001 R316.4,R316.6
Electric Baseboard Heating Equipment — with revisions through February 2008 M1405.1
Fire Test of Roof Deck Construction R906. 1
Electric Water Heaters for Pools and Tubs — with revisions through June 2004 M2006.1
Electronic Booster and Commercial Storage Tank Water Heaters —
with revisions through December 2009 M2005.1
Fire Tests of Through-Penetration Firestops — with revisions through March 2010 R302.4. 1 .2
Solid-Fuel-type Room Heaters R1002.2, R1002.5, M1410.1
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
783
REFERENCED STANDARDS
1618—09
1673—96
1693—02
1703—02
1741—99
1715—97
1738—06
1741—99
1777—04
1995—05
1996—04
2017—08
2523—03
2034—08
2075—04
2158A— 06
UL — continued
Wall Protectors, Floor Protectors, and Hearth Extensions M1004.2
Electric Space Heating Cables — with revisions through July 2003 Ml 406.1
Electric Radiant Heating Panels and Heating Panel Sets M1406.1
Flat-plate Photovoltaic Modules and Panels — with revisions through April 2005 M2302.3
Inverters, Converters, Controllers and Interconnection System Equipment with
Distributed Energy Resources — with revisions through November 2005 M2302.4
Fire Test of Interior Finish Material — with revisions through March 2004 R3 16.6
Venting Systems for Gas-burning Appliances, Categories II, III and IV G2426.1
Inverters, Converters, Controllers and Interconnection System Equipment
for use with Distributed Energy Resources — with revisions through November 2005 M2302.4
Chimney Liners with revisions through June 2009 R1003.ll. 1, R1003.18,
G2425.12, G2425.15.4, M1801.3.4,
Heating and Cooling Equipment — with revisions through July 2009 M1402.1, M1403.1,
M1407.1,M1412.1,M1413.1
Electric Duct Heaters — with revisions through December 2006 Ml 402.1
Standard for General-purpose Signaling Devices and Systems —
with revisions through October 2009 AG105.2
Outline of Investigation for Sealed Fuel-fired Water Heaters and Boilers M2001.1.1
Standard for Single- and Multiple-station Carbon Monoxide Alarms R315.4
Standard for Gas and Vapor Detectors and Sensors — with revisions
through September 28, 2007 R315.2
Outline of Investigation for Clothes Dryer Transition Duct Ml 502.4.3
Underwriters' Laboratories of Canada
7 Underwriters Road
Toronto, Ontario, Canada MIR 3B4
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
CAN/ULCS 102—1988
Standard Methods for Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials and
Assemblies — with 2000 revisions
R302.10.2
United States-Federal Trade Commission
600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20580
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
CFR Title 16
(May 31, 2005)
R-valueRule 303.1.4
WF|I/| A
JLJ'Iy JLf*.
Window & Door Manufacturers Association
1400 East Touhy Avenue, Suite 470
Des Plaines. IL 60018
Standard
reference
number
Title
Referenced
in code
section number
AAMA/WDMA/CSA
101/I.S2/A440— 08
Specifications for Windows, Doors and Skylights R308.6.9, R6I2.3, Nl 102.4.3
784
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX A
SZlNCi AND I '*irAGIl 1ES Or GAS PIPINu
(This appendix is informative and is not part of the code. This appendix is an excerpt from the 2012 International Fuel
Gas Code, coordinated with the section numbering of the International Residential Code.)
A.l General piping considerations. The first goal of deter-
mining the pipe sizing for a fuel gas piping system is to make
sure that there is sufficient gas pressure at the inlet to each
appliance. The majority of systems are residential and the
appliances will all have the same, or nearly the same, require-
ment for minimum gas pressure at the appliance inlet. This
pressure will be about 5-inch water column (w.c.) (1 .25 kPa),
which is enough for proper operation of the appliance regula-
tor to deliver about 3.5-inches water column (w.c.) (875 kPa)
to the burner itself. The pressure drop in the piping is sub-
tracted from the source delivery pressure to verify that the
minimum is available at the appliance.
There are other systems, however, where the required inlet
pressure to the different appliances may be quite varied. In
such cases, the greatest inlet pressure required must be satis-
fied, as well as the farthest appliance, which is almost always
the critical appliance in small systems.
There is an additional requirement to be observed besides
the capacity of the system at 100-percent flow. That require-
ment is that at minimum flow, the pressure at the inlet to any
appliance does not exceed the pressure rating of the appli-
ance regulator. This would seldom be of concern in small
systems if the source pressure is '/ 2 psi (14-inch w.c.) (3.5
kPa) or less but it should be verified for systems with greater
gas pressure at the point of supply.
To determine the size of piping used in a gas piping sys-
tem, the following factors must be considered:
(1) Allowable loss in pressure from point of delivery to
appliance.
(2) Maximum gas demand.
(3) Length of piping and number of fittings.
(4) Specific gravity of the gas.
(5) Diversity factor.
For any gas piping system, or special appliance, or for con-
ditions other than those covered by the tables provided in this
code, such as longer runs, greater gas demands or greater
pressure drops, the size of each gas piping system should be
determined by standard engineering practices acceptable to
the code official.
A.2 Description of tables.
A.2.1 General. The quantity of gas to be provided at each
outlet should be determined, whenever possible, directly
from the manufacturer's gas input Btu/h rating of the appli-
ance that will be installed. In case the ratings of the appli-
ances to be installed are not known, Table 402.2 shows the
approximate consumption (in Btu per hour) of certain types
of typical household appliances.
To obtain the cubic feet per hour of gas required, divide the
total Btu/h input of all appliances by the average Btu heating
value per cubic feet of the gas. The average Btu per cubic feet
of the gas in the area of the installation can be obtained from
the serving gas supplier.
A.2.2 Low pressure natural gas tables. Capacities for gas at
low pressure [less than 2.0 psig (13.8 kPa gauge)] in cubic
feet per hour of 0.60 specific gravity gas for different sizes
and lengths are shown in Tables 402.4(1) and 402.4(2) for
iron pipe or equivalent rigid pipe; in Tables 402.4(8) through
402.4(11) for smooth wall semirigid tubing; and in Tables
402.4(15) through 402.4(17) for corrugated stainless steel
tubing. Tables 402.4(1) and 402.4(6) are based upon a pres-
sure drop of 0.3-inch w.c. (75 Pa), whereas Tables 402.4(2),
402.4(9) and 402.4(15) are based upon a pressure drop of 0.5-
inch w.c. (125 Pa). Tables 402.4(3), 402.4(4), 402.4(10),
402.4(11), 402.4(16) and 402.4(17) are special low-pressure
applications based upon pressure drops greater than 0.5-inch
w.c. (125 Pa). In using these tables, an allowance (in equiva-
lent length of pipe) should be considered for any piping run
with four or more fittings (see Table A.2.2).
A.2.3 Undiluted liquefied petroleum tables. Capacities in
thousands of Btu per hour of undiluted liquefied petroleum
gases based on a pressure drop of 0.5-inch w.c. (125 Pa) for
different sizes and lengths are shown in Table 402.4(28) for
iron pipe or equivalent rigid pipe, in Table 402.4(30) for
smooth wall semi-rigid tubing, in Table 402.4(32) for corru-
gated stainless steel tubing, and in Tables 402.4(35) and
402.4(37) for polyethylene plastic pipe and tubing. Tables
402.4(33) and 402.4(34) for corrugated stainless steel tubing
and Table 402.4(36) for polyethylene plastic pipe are based
on operating pressures greater than l'/ 2 pounds per square
inch (psi) (3.5 kPa) and pressure drops greater than 0.5-inch
w.c. (125 Pa). In using these tables, an allowance (in equiva-
lent length of pipe) should be considered for any piping run
with four or more fittings [see Table A.2.2].
A. 2.4 Natural gas specific gravity. Gas piping systems that
are to be supplied with gas of a specific gravity of 0.70 or less
can be sized directly from the tables provided in this code,
unless the code official specifies that a gravity factor be
applied. Where the specific gravity of the gas is greater than
0.70, the gravity factor should be applied.
Application of the gravity factor converts the figures
given in the tables provided in this code to capacities for
another gas of different specific gravity. Such application
is accomplished by multiplying the capacities given in the
tables by the multipliers shown in Table A. 2. 4. In case the
exact specific gravity does not appear in the table, choose
the next higher value specific gravity shown.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
785
APPENDIX A
TABLE A.2.2
EQUIVALENT LENGTHS OF PIPE FITTINGS AND VALVES
SCREWED FITTINGS 1
90° WELDING ELBOWS AND SMOOTH BENDS 2
457EII
907EII
1 B0 "close return
bends
Tee
R/d = 1
R/d = 1'/ 3
R/d = 2
R/d = 4
R/d = 6
R/d = 8
k factor =
0.42
0.90
2.00
1.80
0.48
0.36
0.27
0.21
0.27
0.36
L/d' ratio 4 n =
14
30
67
60
16
12
9
7
9
12
Nominal
pipe size,
inches
Inside
diameter d,
inches,
Schedule 40 6
L = Equivalent Length In Feet of Schedule 40 (Standard-weight) Straight Pipe 6
V,
%
1
l'/ 4
1V 2
0.622
0.824
1.049
1.380
1.610
0.73
0.96
1.22
1.61
1.88
1.55
2.06
2.62
3.45
4.02
3.47
4.60
5.82
7.66
8.95
3.10
4.12
5.24
6.90
8.04
0.83
1.10
1.40
1.84
2.14
0.62
0.82
1.05
1.38
1.61
0.47
0.62
0.79
1.03
1.21
0.36
0.48
0.61
0.81
0.94
0.47
0.62
0.79
1.03
1.21
0.62
0.82
1.05
1.38
1.61
2
27,
3
4
5
2.067
2.469
3.068
4.026
5.047
2.41
2.88
3.58
4.70
5.88
5.17
6.16
7.67
10.1
12.6
11.5
13.7
17.1
22.4
28.0
10.3
12.3
15.3
20.2
25.2
2.76
3.29
4.09
5.37
6.72
2.07
2.47
3.07
4.03
5.05
1.55
1.85
2.30
3.02
3.78
1.21
1.44
1.79
2.35
2.94
1.55
1.85
2.30
3.02
3.78
2.07
2.47
3.07
4.03
5.05
6
8
10
12
14
6.065
7.981
10.02
11.94
13.13
7.07
9.31
11.7
13.9
15.3
15.2
20.0
25.0
29.8
32.8
33.8
44.6
55.7
66.3
73.0
30.4
40.0
50.0
59.6
65.6
8.09
10.6
13.3
15.9
17.5
6.07
7.98
10.0
11.9
13.1
4.55
5.98
7.51
8.95
9.85
3.54
4.65
5.85
6.96
7.65
4.55
5.98
7.51
8.95
9.85
6.07
7.98
10.0
11.9
13.1
16
18
20
24
15.00
16.88
18.81
22.63
17.5
19.7
22.0
26.4
37.5
42.1
47.0
56.6
83.5
93.8
105.0
126.0
75.0
84.2
94.0
113.0
20.0
22.5
25.1
30.2
15.0
16.9
18.8
22.6
11.2
12.7
14.1
17.0
8.75
9.85
11.0
13.2
11.2
12.7
14.1
17.0
15.0
16.9
18.8
22.6
(continued)
786
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX A
TABLE A.2.2— continued
EQUIVALENT LENGTHS OF PIPE FITTINGS AND VALVES
MITER ELBOWS 3 (N
d. of miters)
WELDING TEES
VALVES (screwed, flanged, or
welded)
1-45°
1-60°
1-90°
2-90" 5
3-90° 5
Forged
Miter 3
Gate
Globe
Angle
Swing Check
k factor =
0.45
0.90
1.80
0.60
0.45
1.35
1.80
0.21
10
5.0
2.5
L/d'
atio" n =
15
30
60
20
15
45
60
7
333
167
83
Nominal
pipe size,
Inside
diameter d,
L = Equivalent Length In Feet of Schedule 40 (Standard-weight) Straight Pipe 6
inches
Schedule 40 6
7,
0.622
0.78
1. 55
3.10
1.04
0.78
2.33
3.10
0.36
17.3
8.65
4.32
%
0.824
1.03
2.06
4.12
1.37
1.03
3.09
4.12
0.48
22.9
11.4
5.72
1
1.049
1.31
2.62
5.24
1.75
1.31
3.93
5.24
0.61
29.1
14.6
7.27
l'/ 4
1.380
1.72
3.45
6.90
2.30
1.72
5.17
6.90
0.81
38.3
19.1
9.58
17,
1.610
2.01
4.02
8.04
2.68
2.01
6.04
8.04
0.94
44.7
22.4
11.2
2
2.067
2.58
5.17
10.3
3.45
2.58
7.75
10.3
1.21
57.4
28.7
14.4
2%
2.469
3.08
6.16
12.3
4.11
3.08
9.25
12.3
1.44
68.5
34.3
17.1
3
3.068
3.84
7.67
15.3
5.11
3.84
11.5
15.3
1.79
85.2
42.6
21.3
4
4.026
5.04
10.1
20.2
6.71
5.04
15.1
20.2
2.35
112.0
56.0
28.0
5
5.047
6.30
12.6
25.2
8.40
6.30
18.9
25.2
2.94
140.0
70.0
35.0
6
6.065
7.58
15.2
30.4
10.1
7.58
22.8
30.4
3.54
168.0
84.1
42.1
8
7.981
9.97
20.0
40.0
13.3
9.97
29.9
40.0
4.65
22.0
111.0
55.5
10
10.02
12.5
25.0
50.0
16.7
12.5
37.6
50.0
5.85
278.0
139.0
69.5
12
11.94
14.9
29.8
59.6
19.9
14.9
44.8
59.6
6.96
332.0
166.0
83.0
14
13.13
16.4
32.8
65.6
21.9
16.4
49.2
65.6
7.65
364.0
182.0
91.0
16
15.00
18.8
37.5
75.0
25.0
18.8
56.2
75.0
8.75
417.0
208.0
104.0
18
16.88
21.1
42.1
84.2
28.1
21.1
63.2
84.2
9.85
469.0
234.0
117.0
20
18.81
23.5
47.0
94.0
31.4
23.5
70.6
94.0
11.0
522.0
261.0
131.0
24
22.63
28.3
56.6
113.0
37.8
28.3
85.0
113.0
13.2
629.0
314.0
157.0
For SI: 1 foot = 305 mm, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Note: Values for welded fittings are for conditions where bore is not obstructed by weld spatter or backing rings. If appreciably obstructed, use values for
"Screwed Fittings."
1 . Flanged fittings have three-fourths the resistance of screwed elbows and tees.
2. Tabular figures give the extra resistance due to curvature alone to which should be added the full length of travel.
3. Small size socket-welding fittings are equivalent to miter elbows and miter tees.
4. Equivalent resistance in number of diameters of straight pipe computed for a value of (/'- 0.0075) from the relation («. - k/4f).
5. For condition of minimum resistance where the centerline length of each miter is between d and 2'/ 2 <f.
6. For pipe having other inside diameters, the equivalent resistance may be computed from the above n values.
Source: Crocker, S. Piping Handbook, 4th ed.. Table XIV, pp. 100-101. Copyright 1945 by McGraw-Hill, Inc. Used by permission of McGraw-Hill Book
Company.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
787
APPENDIX A
TABLE A.2.4
MULTIPLIERS TO BE USED WITH TABLES 402.4(1)
THROUGH 402.4(22) WHERE THE SPECIFIC GRAVITY
OF THE GAS IS OTHER THAN 0.60
SPECIFIC
GRAVITY
MULTIPLIER
SPECIFIC
GRAVITY
MULTIPLIER
0.35
1.31
1.00
0.78
0.40
1.23
1.10
0.74
0.45
1.16
1.20
0.71
0.50
1.10
1.30
0.68
0.55
1.04
1.40
0.66
0.60
1.00
1.50
0.63
0.65
0.96 j
1.60
0.61
0.70
0.93
1.70
0.59
0.75
0.90
1.80
0.58
0.80
0.87
1.90
0.56
0.85
0.84
2.00
0.55
0.90
0.82
2.10
0.54
A.2.5 Higher pressure natural gas tables. Capacities for
gas at pressures 2.0 psig (13.8 kPa) or greater in cubic feet
per hour of 0.60 specific gravity gas for different sizes and
lengths are shown in Tables 402.4(5) through 402.4(7) for
iron pipe or equivalent rigid pipe; Tables 402.4(12) to
402.4(14) for semirigid tubing; Tables 402.4(18) and
402.4(19) for corrugated stainless steel tubing; and Table
402.4(22) for polyethylene plastic pipe.
A.3 Use of capacity tables.
A.3.1 Longest length method. This sizing method is conser-
vative in its approach by applying the maximum operating
conditions in the system as the norm for the system and by
setting the length of pipe used to size any given part of the
piping system to the maximum value.
To determine the size of each section of gas piping in a
system within the range of the capacity tables, proceed as fol-
lows (also see sample calculations included in this Appen-
dix):
(1) Divide the piping system into appropriate segments
consistent with the presence of tees, branch lines and
main runs. For each segment, determine the gas load
(assuming all appliances operate simultaneously) and
its overall length. An allowance (in equivalent length
of pipe) as determined from Table A.2.2 shall be
considered for piping segments that include four or
more fittings.
(2) Determine the gas demand of each appliance to be
attached to the piping system. Where Tables 402.4(1)
through 402.4(24) are to be used to select the piping
size, calculate the gas demand in terms of cubic feet
per hour for each piping system outlet. Where Tables
402.4(25) through 402.4(37) are to be used to select
the piping size, calculate the gas demand in terms of
thousands of Btu per hour for each piping system
outlet.
(3) Where the piping system is for use with other than
undiluted liquefied petroleum gases, determine the
design system pressure, the allowable loss in pressure
(pressure drop), and specific gravity of the gas to be
used in the piping system.
(4) Determine the length of piping from the point of
delivery to the most remote outlet in the building/
piping system.
(5) In the appropriate capacity table, select the row
showing the measured length or the next longer length
if the table does not give the exact length. This is the
only length used in determining the size of any section
of gas piping. If the gravity factor is to be applied, the
values in the selected row of the table are multiplied
by the appropriate multiplier from Table A.2.4.
(6) Use this horizontal row to locate ALL gas demand
figures for this particular system of piping.
(7) Starting at the most remote outlet, find the gas demand
for that outlet in the horizontal row just selected. If the
exact figure of demand is not shown, choose the next
larger figure left in the row.
(8) Opposite this demand figure, in the first row at the
top, the correct size of gas piping will be found.
(9) Proceed in a similar manner for each outlet and each
section of gas piping. For each section of piping,
determine the total gas demand supplied by that
section.
When a large number of piping components (such as
elbows, tees and valves) are installed in a pipe run, additional
pressure loss can be accounted for by the use of equivalent
lengths. Pressure loss across any piping component can be
equated to the pressure drop through a length of pipe. The
equivalent length of a combination of only four elbows/tees
can result in a jump to the next larger length row, resulting in
a significant reduction in capacity. The equivalent lengths in
feet shown in Table A.2.2 have been computed on a basis that
the inside diameter corresponds to that of Schedule 40 (stan-
dard-weight) steel pipe, which is close enough for most pur-
poses involving other schedules of pipe. Where a more
specific solution for equivalent length is desired, this may be
made by multiplying the actual inside diameter of the pipe in
inches by n/12, or the actual inside diameter in feet by « («
can be read from the table heading). The equivalent length
values can be used with reasonable accuracy for copper or
brass fittings and bends although the resistance per foot of
copper or brass pipe is less than that of steel. For copper or
brass valves, however, the equivalent length of pipe should
be taken as 45 percent longer than the values in the table,
which are for steel pipe.
788
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
APPENDIX A
A.3.2 Branch length method. This sizing method reduces
the amount of conservatism built into the traditional Longest
Length Method. The longest length as measured from the
meter to the furthest remote appliance is only used to size the
initial parts of the overall piping system. The Branch Length
Method is applied in the following manner:
(1) Determine the gas load for each of the connected
appliances.
(2) Starting from the meter, divide the piping system into
a number of connected segments, and determine the
length and amount of gas that each segment would
carry assuming that all appliances were operated
simultaneously. An allowance (in equivalent length of
pipe) as determined from Table A. 2. 2 should be
considered for piping segments that include four or
more fittings.
(3) Determine the distance from the outlet of the gas
meter to the appliance furthest removed from the
meter.
(4) Using the longest distance (found in Step 3), size each
piping segment from the meter to the most remote
appliance outlet.
(5) For each of these piping segments, use the longest
length and the calculated gas load for all of the
connected appliances for the segment and begin the
sizing process in Steps 6 through 8.
(6) Referring to the appropriate sizing table (based on
operating conditions and piping material), find the
longest length distance in the first column or the next
larger distance if the exact distance is not listed. The
use of alternative operating pressures and/or pressure
drops will require the use of a different sizing table,
but will not alter the sizing methodology. In many
cases, the use of alternative operating pressures and/or
pressure drops will require the approval of both the
code official and the local gas serving utility.
(7) Trace across this row until the gas load is found or the
closest larger capacity if the exact capacity is not
listed.
(8) Read up the table column and select the appropriate
pipe size in the top row. Repeat Steps 6, 7 and 8 for
each pipe segment in the longest ran.
(9) Size each remaining section of branch piping not
previously sized by measuring the distance from the
gas meter location to the most remote outlet in that
branch, using the gas load of attached appliances and
following the procedures of Steps 2 through 8.
A.3.3 Hybrid pressure method. The sizing of a 2 psi (13.8
kPa) gas piping system is performed using the traditional
Longest Length Method but with modifications. The 2 psi
(13.8 kPa) system consists of two independent pressure
zones, and each zone is sized separately. The Hybrid Pressure
Method is applied as follows:
The sizing of the 2 psi (13.8 kPa) section (from the meter
to the line regulator) is as follows:
(1) Calculate the gas load (by adding up the name plate
ratings) from all connected appliances. (In certain
circumstances the installed gas load may be increased
up to 50 percent to accommodate future addition of
appliances.) Ensure that the line regulator capacity is
adequate for the calculated gas load and that the
required pressure drop (across the regulator) for that
capacity does not exceed V 4 psi (5.2 kPa) for a 2 psi
(13.8 kPa) system. If the pressure drop across the
regulator is too high (for the connected gas load),
select a larger regulator.
(2) Measure the distance from the meter to the line
regulator located inside the building.
(3) If there are multiple line regulators, measure the
distance from the meter to the regulator furthest
removed from the meter.
(4) The maximum allowable pressure drop for the 2 psi
(13.8 kPa) section is 1 psi (6.9 kPa).
(5) Referring to the appropriate sizing table (based on
piping material) for 2 psi (13.8 kPa) systems with a 1
psi (6.9 kPa) pressure drop, find this distance in the
first column, or the closest larger distance if the exact
distance is not listed.
(6) Trace across this row until the gas load is found or the
closest larger capacity if the exact capacity is not
listed.
(7) Read up the table column to the top row and select the
appropriate pipe size.
(8) If there are multiple regulators in this portion of the
piping system, each line segment must be sized for its
actual gas load, but using the longest length
previously determined above.
The low pressure section (all piping downstream of the
line regulator) is sized as follows:
(1) Determine the gas load for each of the connected
appliances.
(2) Starting from the line regulator, divide the piping
system into a number of connected segments and/or
independent parallel piping segments, and determine
the amount of gas that each segment would carry
assuming that all appliances were operated
simultaneously. An allowance (in equivalent length of
pipe) as determined from Table A.2.2 should be
considered for piping segments that include four or
more fittings.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
789
APPENDIX A
(3) For each piping segment, use the actual length or
longest length (if there are sub-branchlines) and the
calculated gas load for that segment and begin the
sizing process as follows:
(a) Referring to the appropriate sizing table (based
on operating pressure and piping material), find
the longest length distance in the first column or
the closest larger distance if the exact distance
is not listed. The use of alternative operating
pressures and/or pressure drops will require the
use of a different sizing table, but will not alter
the sizing methodology. In many cases, the use
of alternative operating pressures and/or
pressure drops may require the approval of the
code official.
(b) Trace across this row until the appliance gas
load is found or the closest larger capacity if the
exact capacity is not listed.
(c) Read up the table column to the top row and
select the appropriate pipe size.
(d) Repeat this process for each segment of the
piping system.
A.3.4 Pressure drop per 100 feet method. This sizing
method is less conservative than the others, but it allows the
designer to immediately see where the largest pressure drop
occurs in the system. With this information, modifications
can be made to bring the total drop to the critical appliance
within the limitations that are presented to the designer.
Follow the procedures described in the Longest Length
Method for Steps (1) through (4) and (9).
For each piping segment, calculate the pressure drop based
on pipe size, length as a percentage of 100 feet (30 480 mm)
and gas flow. Table A.3.4 shows pressure drop per 100 feet
(30 480 mm) for pipe sizes from 7 2 inch (12.7 mm) through 2
inches (51 mm). The sum of pressure drops to the critical
appliance is subtracted from the supply pressure to verify that
sufficient pressure will be available. If not, the layout can be
examined to find the high drop section(s) and sizing
selections modified.
Note: Other values can be obtained by using the following
equation:
Desired Value = MBHx
Desired Drop
Table Drop
For example, if it is desired to get flow through V 4 -inch
(19.1 mm) pipe at 2 inches/100 feet, multiply the capacity of
V 4 -inch pipe at 1 inch/ 100 feet by the square root of the
pressure ratio:
147 MS// x / - wx ' = 147x1.414 = 208 MBH
Vlw.c.
{MBH = 1000 Btu/h)
A.4 Use of sizing equations. Capacities of smooth wall pipe
or tubing can also be determined by using the following for-
mulae:
(1) High Pressure [1.5 psi (10.3 kPa) and above]:
Q = 181.6
D 5 -(P^-P^-Y
\ C,.-fba-L
= 2237 D
2.623
C-L
0.541
(2) Low Pressure [Less than 1.5 psi (10.3 kPa)]:
Q = 187.3
D ■ AH
C r -fba L
= 2313^(^9 a54 '
where:
Q = Rate, cubic feet per hour at 60°F and 30-inch
mercury column
D - Inside diameter of pipe, in.
P [ - Upstream pressure, psia
P 2 = Downstream pressure, psia
Y = Superexpansibility factor = 1/supercompressibility
factor
C r = Factor for viscosity, density and temperature*
,0.152
(!)
0.00354 ST\^
Note: See Table 402.4 for Y and C r for natural gas and
propane.
TABLE A.3.4
THOUSANDS OF BTU/H (MBH) OF NATURAL GAS PER 100 FEET OF PIPE AT VARIOUS PRESSURE DROPS AND PIPE DIAMETERS
PRESSURE DROP PER
100 FEET IN INCHES
W.C.
PIPE SIZES (inch)
%
3 /
1
1V 4
1%
2
0.2
31
64
121
248
372
7I6
0.3
38
79
148
304
455
877
0.5
50
104
195
400
600
1160
1.0
71
147
276
566
848
1640
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
790
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX A
s =
T =
t =
Z =
y&a =
L =
AH =
Specific gravity of gas at 60°F and 30-inch mercury
column (0.60 for natural gas, 1.50 for propane), or =
1488u
Absolute temperature, °F or = t + 460
Temperature, °F
Viscosity of gas, centipoise (0.012 for natural gas,
0.008 for propane), or = 1488a
Base friction factor for air at 60°F (CF = 1)
Length of pipe, ft
Pressure drop, in. w.c. (27.7 in. H 2 = 1 psi)
(For SI, see Section 402.4)
A.5 Pipe and tube diameters. Where the internal diameter is
determined by the formulas in Section 402.4, Tables A.5.1
and A. 5. 2 can be used to select the nominal or standard pipe
size based on the calculated internal diameter.
TABLE A.5.1
SCHEDULE 40 STEEL PIPE STANDARD SIZES
NOMINAL SIZE ZTJTn
DIAMETER
(inch)
NOMINAL SIZE '^™ AL .
,. .. DIAMETER
(inch)
(inch)
V 4 0.364
l'/ 2 1.610
-7 8 0.493
2 2.067
V a 0.622
27, 2.469
V 4 0.824
3 3.068
1 1.049
3'/ 2 3.548
17 4 1.380
4 4.026
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
A.6 Use of sizing charts. A third method of sizing gas piping
is detailed below as an option that is useful when large quan-
tities of piping are involved in a job (e.g., an apartment
house) and material costs are of concern. If the user is not
completely familiar with this method, the resulting pipe siz-
ing should be checked by a knowledgeable gas engineer. The
sizing charts are applied as follows:
(1) With the layout developed according to Section
106.3.1 of the code, indicate in each section the design
gas flow under maximum operation conditions. For
many layouts, the maximum design flow will be the
sum of all connected loads; however, in some cases,
certain combinations of appliances will not occur
simultaneously (e.g., gas heating and air
conditioning). For these cases, the design flow is the
greatest gas flow that can occur at any one time.
(2) Determine the inlet gas pressure for the system being
designed. In most cases, the point of inlet will be the
gas meter or service regulator, but in the case of a
system addition, it could be the point of connection to
the existing system.
(3) Determine the minimum pressure required at the inlet
to the critical appliance. Usually, the critical item will
be the appliance with the highest required pressure for
satisfactory operation. If several items have the same
required pressure, it will be the one with the greatest
length of piping from the system inlet.
(4) The difference between the inlet pressure and critical
item pressure is the allowable system pressure drop.
Figures A.6(a) and A.6(b) show the relationship
between gas flow, pipe size and pipe length for natural
gas with 0.60 specific gravity.
(5) To use Figure A.6(a) (low pressure applications),
calculate the piping length from the inlet to the critical
TABLE A.5.2
COPPER TUBE STANDARD SIZES
TUBE
TYPE
NOMINAL OR
STANDARD SIZE
(inches)
INTERNAL DIAMETER
(inches)
K
v 4
0.305
L
v 4
0.315
ACR (D)
\
0.315
ACR (A)
%
0.311
K
%
0.402
L
%
0.430
ACR (D)
'/,
0.430
ACR (A)
%
0.436
K
%
0.527
L
'/,
0.545
ACR (D)
%
0.545
ACR (A)
%
0.555
K
%
0.652
L
%
0.666
ACR (D)
3 / 4
0.666
ACR (A)
%
0.680
K
X
0.745
L
\
0.785
ACR
%
0.785
K
i
0.995
L
i
1.025
ACR
i'/ 8
1.025
K
1V 4
1.245
L
17,
1 .265
ACR
1%
1.265
K
1'4
1.481
L
i 1 /,
1.505
ACR
1%
1.505
K
2
1.959
L
2
1.985
ACR
2%
1.985
K
2%
2.435
L
2%
2.465
ACR
2 5 /
z '8
2.465
K
3
2.907
L
3
2.945
ACR
3'/ s
2.945
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
791
APPENDIX A
appliance. Increase this length by 50 percent to allow
for fittings. Divide the allowable pressure drop by the
equivalent length (in hundreds of feet) to determine
the allowable pressure drop per 100 feet (30 480 mm).
Select the pipe size from Figure A.6(a) for the
required volume of flow.
(6) To use Figure A.6(b) (high pressure applications),
calculate the equivalent length as above. Calculate the
index number for Figure A.6(b) by dividing the
difference between the squares of the absolute values
of inlet and outlet pressures by the equivalent length
(in hundreds of feet). Select the pipe size from Figure
A.6(b) for the gas volume required.
A.7 Examples of piping system design and sizing.
A.7.1 Example 1: Longest length method. Determine the
required pipe size of each section and outlet of the piping sys-
tem shown in Figure A.7.1, with a designated pressure drop
of 0.5-inch w.c. (125 Pa) using the Longest Length Method.
The gas to be used has 0.60 specific gravity and a heating
value of 1,000 Btu/ft 3 (37.5 MJ/m 3 ).
Outlet C ®—
40 gal. automatic
water heater
35PQ0Btu/h
Section 3
10 ft
20 ft
A
Outlet D
furnace
lOOpOOBtu/h
V Section2
f 20 ft
Section 1
10ft
15ft
Point of
delive ry
V 15ft
5ft
Outlet A
clothes dryer
35JDO0Btu/h
Outlet B k J
range/oven unit
75000 BUVh
FIGURE A.7.1
PIPING PLAN SHOWING A STEEL PIPING SYSTEM
10
20 30 40 5060 80100 200 400 600 800 MOOO 2000 4000 6000 10,000
Gas volume (standard ff/hr gas, specific gravity = 0.60)
FIGURE A.6(a)
CAPACITY OF NATURAL GAS PIPING, LOW PRESSURE (0.60 WC)
792
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX A
Solution:
(1) Maximum gas demand for Outlet A:
Consumption (rating plate input, or Table 402.2 if necessary
Btu of gas
35,000 Btu per hour ratine oc ,. e . , -, e „
— '■ 1- 6 = 35 cubic feet per hour = 35 cm
1,000 Btu per cubic toot
Maximum gas demain for Outlet B:
Consumption _ 75,000 _ _, ,,
Btu of gas ~ 1,000
Maximum gas demain for Outlet C:
Consumption
Btu of gas
35,000
1,000
= 35 cfh
Maximum gas demain for Outlet D:
Consumption _ 100,000 _ ,„„ r,
Btu of gas ~ 1,000
(2) The length of pipe from the point of delivery to the
most remote outlet (A) is 60 feet (18 288 mm). This is
the only distance used.
(3) Using the row marked 60 feet (18 288 mm) in Table
402.4(2):
(a) Outlet A, supplying 35 cfh (0.99 m 3 /hr),
requires V 2 -inch pipe.
(b) Outlet B, supplying 75 cfh (2.12 mVhr),
requires 3 / 4 -inch pipe.
(c) Section 1, supplying Outlets A and B, or 110
cfh (3.11 m 3 /hr), requires V 4 -inch pipe.
(d) Section 2, supplying Outlets C and D, or 135
cfh (3.82 mVhr), requires 3 / 4 -inch pipe.
(e) Section 3, supplying Outlets A, B, C and D, or
245 cfh (6.94 m 3 /hr), requires 1-inch pipe.
(4) If a different gravity factor is applied to this example,
the values in the row marked 60 feet (18 288 mm) of
Table 402.4(2) would be multiplied by the appropriate
multiplier from Table A.2.4 and the resulting cubic
feet per hour values would be used to size the piping.
A.7.2 Example 2: Hybrid or dual pressure systems. Deter-
mine the required CSST size of each section of the piping
system shown in Figure A.7.2, with a designated pressure
4" 5" 6" 8" 10" 12"
Index number =
P 2 -P z
1 ° (100)
Dist.
Dist. = Eq. length, ft 2
Pj = Initial press, abs. psi
P 2 = Final press, abs. psi
10,000
100,000
1 ,000,000
Gas volume (standard ft 3 /hr gas: specific gravity = 0.60
FIGURE A.S(b)
CAPACITY OF NATURAL GAS PIPING, HIGH PRESSURE (1.5 psi and above)
10,000,000
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE* 8
793
APPENDIX A
drop of 1 psi (6.9 kPa) for the 2 psi (13.8 kPa) section and 3-
inch w.c. (0.75 kPa) pressure drop for the 13-inch w.c. (2.49
kPa) section. The gas to be used has 0.60 specific gravity and
a heating value of 1 ,000 Btu/ft 3 (37.5 MJ/ m 3 ).
Solution:
(1) Size 2 psi (13.8 kPa) line using Table 402.4(18).
(2) Size 10-inch w.c. (2.5 kPa) lines using Table
402.4(16).
(3) Using the following, determine if sizing tables can be
used.
(a) Total gas load shown in Figure A. 7. 2 equals
110cfh(3.11m 3 /hr).
(b) Determine pressure drop across regulator [see
notes in Table 402.4(18)].
(c) If pressure drop across regulator exceeds 3 / 4
psig (5.2 kPa), Table 402.4(18) cannot be used.
Note: If pressure drop exceeds 3 / 4 psi (5.2 kPa),
then a larger regulator must be selected or an
alternative sizing method must be used.
(d) Pressure drop across the line regulator [for 110
cfh (3.11 mVhr)] is 4-inch w.c. (0.99 kPa) based
on manufacturer's performance data.
(e) Assume the CSST manufacturer has tubing
sizes or EHDs of 13, 18, 23 and 30.
(4) Section A [2 psi (13.8 kPa) zone]
(a) Distance from meter to regulator =100 feet (30
480 mm).
(b) Total load supplied by A = 1 10 cfh (3. 1 1 m7hr)
(furnace + water heater + dryer).
(c) Table 402.4(18) shows that EHD size 18 should
be used.
2 psig
gas meter
110 cfh
Length of runs:
Key:
A = 100 ft
B = 15ft
c = ioft
fiUl Manifold
X Shut-off valve
D = 25ft
IX] Pressure regulator
|m| Gas meter
FIGURE A.7.2
PIPING PLAN SHOWING A CSST SYSTEM
Note: It is not unusual to oversize the supply
line by 25 to 50 percent of the as-installed load.
EHD size 18 has a capacity of 189 cfh (5.35 m 3 /
hr).
(5) Section B (low pressure zone)
(a) Distance from regulator to furnace is 15 feet
(4572 mm).
(b) Load is 60 cfh (1.70 rrrVhr).
(c) Table 402.4(16) shows that EHD size 13 should
be used.
(6) Section C (low pressure zone)
(a) Distance from regulator to water heater is 10
feet (3048 mm).
(b) Load is 30 cfh (0.85 m 3 /hr).
(c) Table 402.4(16) shows that EHD size 13 should
be used.
(7) Section D (low pressure zone)
(a) Distance from regulator to dryer is 25 feet
(7620 mm).
(b) Load is 20 cfh (0.57 m 3 /hr).
(c) Table 402.4(16) shows that EHD size 13 should
be used.
A.7.3 Example 3: Branch length method. Determine the
required semirigid copper tubing size of each section of the
piping system shown in Figure A.7.3, with a designated pres-
sure drop of 1-inch w.c. (250 Pa) (using the Branch Length
Method). The gas to be used has 0.60 specific gravity and a
heating value of 1 ,000 Btu/ft 3 (37.5 MJ/m 3 ).
Solution:
(1) Section A
(a) The length of tubing from the point of delivery
to the most remote appliance is 50 feet (15 240
mm), A + C.
(b) Use this longest length to size Sections A and
C.
(c) Using the row marked 50 feet (15 240 mm) in
Table 402.4(10), Section A, supplying 220 cfh
(6.2 m 3 /hr) for four appliances requires 1-inch
tubing.
(2) Section B
(a) The length of tubing from the point of delivery
to the range/oven at the end of Section B is 30
feet (9144 mm), A + B.
(b) Use this branch length to size Section B only.
(c) Using the row marked 30 feet (9144 mm) in
Table 402.4(10), Section B, supplying 75 cfh
(2.12 m 3 /hr) for the range/oven requires 7 2 -inch
tubing.
794
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
(3) Section C
(a) The length of tubing from the point of delivery
to the dryer at the end of Section C is 50 feet (15
240 mm), A + C.
(b) Use this branch length (which is also the longest
length) to size Section C.
(c) Using the row marked 50 feet (15 240 mm) in
Table 402.4(10), Section C, supplying 30 cfh
(0.85 m 3 /hr) for the dryer requires 3 / s -inch
tubing.
(4) Section D
(a) The length of tubing from the point of delivery
to the water heater at the end of Section D is 30
feet (9144 mm), A + D.
(b) Use this branch length to size Section D only.
(c) Using the row marked 30 feet (9144 mm) in
Table 402.4(10), Section D, supplying 35 cfh
(0.99 m 3 /hr) for the water heater requires 3 / 8 -inch
tubing.
(5) Section E
(a)
(b)
(c)
The length of tubing from the point of delivery
to the furnace at the end of Section E is 30 feet
(9144 mm), A + E.
Use this branch length to size Section E only.
Using the row marked 30 feet (9144 mm) in
Table 402.4(10), Section E, supplying 80 cfh
(2.26 mVhr) for the furnace requires 7 2 -inch
tubing.
00
O
Range/oven
75 cfh
Section A jgjj|;
Section B JF
Section C
M
t - ^ Section D
220 cfh ™
Section E
1 >~v Water
^f( ) heater
^
/
< ^s 35 cfh v
<
F
urnac
30 eft
[
e Dr
30
]
/er
cfh
Length of runs:
A = 20 ft
B = 10ft
C = 30tt
D= 10ft
E = 10ft
Key:
fjytj Manifold
X Shut-off valve
[m] Gas meter
Total gas load = 220 cfh
APPENDIX A
branch length method. The gas to be used has 0.60 specific
gravity and a heating value of 1,000 Btu/ft 3 (37.5 MJ/m 3 ).
Solution:
(1) The length of pipe and CSST from the point of
delivery to the retrofit appliance (barbecue) at the end
of Section G is 40 feet (12 192 mm), A + B + G.
(2) Use this branch length to size Section G.
(3) Assume the CSST manufacturer has tubing sizes or
EHDsof 13, 18, 23 and 30.
(4) Using the row marked 40 feet (12 192 mm) in Table
402.4(15), Section G, supplying 40 cfh (1.13 nrVhr)
for the barbecue requires EHD 18 CSST.
(5) The sizing of Sections A, B, F and E must be checked
to ensure adequate gas carrying capacity since an
appliance has been added to the piping system (see
A.7.1 for details).
Section B
Section G
Section C
Section E
Furnace
80 cfh
Section D
Range/oven
75 cfh
Length of runs:
A = 15fl E = 5ft
B = 10 ft F = 10ft
C = 15ft G = 15ft
D-20ft
Key:
X Shut-off valve
[m) Gas meter
FIGURE A.7.4
PIPING PLAN SHOWING A MODIFICATION
TO EXISTING PIPING SYSTEM
A.7.5 Example 5: Calculating pressure drops due to tem-
perature changes. A test piping system is installed on a
warm autumn afternoon when the temperature is 70°F
(21°C). In accordance with local custom, the new piping sys-
tem is subjected to an air pressure test at 20 psig (138 kPa).
Overnight, the temperature drops and when the inspector
shows up first thing in the morning the temperature is 40°F
(4°C).
If the volume of the piping system is unchanged, then the
formula based on Boyle's and Charles' law for determining
the new pressure at a reduced temperature is as follows:
FIGURE A.7.3
PIPING PLAN SHOWING A COPPER TUBING SYSTEM
A.7.4 Example 4: Modification to existing piping system.
Determine the required CSST size for Section G (retrofit
application) of the piping system shown in Figure A.7.4, with
a designated pressure drop of 0.5-inch w.c. (125 Pa) using the
where:
7*, = Initial temperature, absolute (T ] + 459)
T 2 - Final temperature, absolute (T 2 + 459)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
795
APPENDIX A
P, = Initial pressure, psia (F, + 14.7)
P 2 = Final pressure, psia (P 2 + 14.7)
(70 + 459) = (20+14.7)
(40 + 459) (P 2 +14.7)
34.7
529 =
499 (P 2 +14.7)
( /> 2+14-7)x|| = 34.7
(P 2 +14.7)x
P,
34.1
1.060
, - 32.7 - 14.7
P 2 =18 psig
Therefore, the gauge could be expected to register 18 psig
(124 kPa) when the ambient temperature is 40°F (4°C).
A.7.6 Example 6: Pressure drop per 100 feet of pipe
method. Using the layout shown in Figure A.7.1 and AH =
pressure drop, in w.c. (27.7 in. H 2 = 1 psi), proceed as fol-
lows:
(1) Length to A = 20 feet, with 35,000 Btu/hr.
For y 2 -inch pipe, AH = 20 fee '
0.06 in w.c.
(2) Length to B = 15 feet, with 75,000 Btu/hr.
For 3 / 4 -inch pipe, AH = 15 feel /,
0.045 in w.c.
(3) Section 1 = 10 feet, with 1 10,000 Btu/hr. Here there is
a choice:
/ioo fee, x 0-3 inch w.c. =
, x 0.3 inch w.c.
For 1 inch pipe: AH -
in w.c.
For 3 / 4 -inch pipe: AH = l0 fee V
7 l00feet x 0.2 inch w.c. = 0.02
( 1 1 0,000 Btu/hr- 1 04,000 Btu/hr) /
- ioo tea x [0.5 inch w.c. +
' (147,000 Btu/hr- 1 04,000 Btu/hr) X U-U inches
w.c. - 0.5 inch w.c.)] = 0.1 x 0.57 inch w.c- 0.06 inch
w.c.
Note that the pressure drop between 104,000 Btu/hr
and 147,000 Btu/hr has been interpolated as 110,000
Btu/hr.
(4) Section 2 = 20 feet, with 135,000 Btu/hr. Here there is
a choice:
For 1-inch pipe: A/J = 20feet / 100feet x [0.2 inch w.c. +
<27,ooo B. u /hr) x 0.1 inch w.c] = 0.05 inch w.c.
(14,000 Btu/hr)/
'(
For 7 4 -inch pipe: Atf = 20fa 7
inch w.c.
x 1.0 inch w.c. = 0.2
Note that the pressure drop between 121,000 Btu/hr
and 148,000 Btu/hr has been interpolated as 135,000
Btu/hr, but interpolation for the 3 A-inch pipe (trivial
for 104,000 Btu/hr to 147,000 Btu/hr) was not used.
(5) Section 3 = 30 feet, with 245,000 Btu/hr. Here there is
a choice:
For 1-inch pipe: AH =
0.3 inch w.c.
For 1 V 4 -inch pipe: AH
0.06 inch w.c.
et/ ioofeet x l-° inches w.c.
e, Aoo feet x 0- 2 i nch w - c - =
Note that interpolation for these options is ignored
since the table values are close to the 245,000 Btu/hr
carried by that section.
(6) The total pressure drop is the sum of the section
approaching A, Sections 1 and 3, or either of the
following, depending on whether an absolute
minimum is needed or the larger drop can be
accommodated.
Minimum pressure drop to farthest appliance:
AH = 0.06 inch w.c. + 0.02 inch w.c. + 0.06 inch w.c.
= 0.14 inch w.c.
Larger pressure drop to the farthest appliance:
AH = 0.06 inch w.c. + 0.06 inch w.c. + 0.3 inch w.c. =
0.42 inch w.c.
Notice that Section 2 and the run to B do not enter into
this calculation, provided that the appliances have
similar input pressure requirements.
For SI units: 1 Btu/hr = 0.293 W, 1 cubic foot = 0.028
m 3 , 1 foot = 0.305 m, 1 inch w.c. = 249 Pa.
796
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX B
SIZING OF VENTING SYSTEMS SERVING APPLIANCES EQUIPPED
WITH DRAFT HOODS, CATEGORY I APPLIANCES, AND
APPLIANCES LISTED FOR USE WITH TYPE B VENTS
(This appendix is informative and is not part of the code. This appendix is an excerpt from the 2012 International Fuel
Gas Code, coordinated with the section numbering of the International Residential Code.)
EXAMPLES USING SINGLE
APPLIANCE VENTING TABLES
Example 1: Single draft-hood-equipped appliance.
An installer has a 120,000 British thermal unit (Btu) per hour
input appliance with a 5-inch-diameter draft hood outlet that
needs to be vented into a 1 0-foot-high Type B vent system.
What size vent should be used assuming (a) a 5-foot lateral
single-wall metal vent connector is used with two 90-degree
elbows, or (b) a 5-foot lateral single-wall metal vent connec-
tor is used with three 90-degree elbows in the vent system?
Solution:
Table 504.2(2) should be used to solve this problem, because
single-wall metal vent connectors are being used with a Type
B vent.
(a) Read down the first column in Table 504.2(2) until the
row associated with a 10-foot height and 5-foot lateral
is found. Read across this row until a vent capacity
greater than 120,000 Btu per hour is located in the
shaded columns labeled "NAT Max" for draft-hood-
equipped appliances. In this case, a 5-inch-diameter
vent has a capacity of 122,000 Btu per hour and may
be used for this application.
(b) If three 90-degree elbows are used in the vent system,
then the maximum vent capacity listed in the tables
must be reduced by 10 percent (see Section 504.2.3
for single appliance vents). This implies that the 5-
inch-diameter vent has an adjusted capacity of only
110,000 Btu per hour. In this case, the vent system
must be increased to 6 inches in diameter (see
calculations below).
122,000 (0.90) = 110,000 for 5-inch vent
From Table 504.2(2), Select 6-inch vent
186,000 (0.90) = 167,000; This is greater than the
required 120,000. Therefore, use a 6-inch vent and
connector where three elbows are used.
TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL—
GAS VENT
VENT CAP -•£
^
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W.
Table 504.2(1) is used when sizing Type B double-wall gas vent connected
directly to the appliance.
Note: The appliance may be either Category I draft hood equipped or fan-
assisted type.
FIGURE B-1
TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL VENT SYSTEM SERVING A SINGLE
APPLIANCE WITH A TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL VENT
TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL—
GAS VENT
SINGLE-WALL VENT-
CONNECTOR
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W.
Table 504.2(2) is used when sizing a single-wall metal vent connector
attached to a Type B double-wall gas vent.
Note: The appliance may be either Category I draft hood equipped or fan-
assisted type.
FIGURE B-2
TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL VENT SYSTEM SERVING A SINGLE
APPLIANCE WITH A SINGLE-WALL METAL VENT CONNECTOR
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
797
APPENDIX B
TILE-LINED MASONRY-
CHIMNEY
ti?r
TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL—
GAS VENT USED AS
CONNECTOR
s
&
VENT CAP
Table 504.2(3) is used when sizing a Type B double-wall gas vent connector
attached to a tile-lined masonry chimney.
Note: "A" is the equivalent cross-sectional area of the tile liner.
Note: The appliance may be either Category I draft hood equipped or fan-
assisted type.
FIGURE B-3
VENT SYSTEM SERVING A SINGLE APPLIANCE
WITH A MASONRY CHIMNEY OF TYPE B
DOUBLE-WALL VENT CONNECTOR
Asbestos cement Type B or single-wall metal vent serving a single draft-
hood-equipped appliance [see Table 504.2(5)].
FIGURE B-5
ASBESTOS CEMENT TYPE B OR SINGLE-WALL
METAL VENT SYSTEM SERVING A SINGLE
DRAFT-HOOD-EQUIPPED APPLIANCE
TILE-LINED MASONRY-
CHIMNEY
SINGLE-WALL VENT-
CONNECTOR
Table 504.2(4) is used when sizing a single-wall vent connector attached to e
tile-lined masonry chimney.
Note: "A" is the equivalent cross-sectional area of the tile liner.
Note: The appliance may be either Category I draft hood equipped or fan-
assisted type.
FIGURE B-4
VENT SYSTEM SERVING A SINGLE APPLIANCE
USING A MASONRY CHIMNEY AND A
SINGLE-WALL METAL VENT CONNECTOR
Table 504.3(1) is used when sizing Type B double-wall vent connectors
attached to a Type B double-wall common vent.
Note: Each appliance may be either Category I draft hood equipped or fan-
assisted type.
FIGURE B-6
VENT SYSTEM SERVING TWO OR MORE APPLIANCES
WITH TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL VENT AND TYPE B
DOUBLE-WALL VENT CONNECTOR
798
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX B
-VENT CAP
-TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL
COMMON VENT
SINGLE-WALL VENT
CONNECTOR
D
TILE-LINED MASONRY
CHIMNEY
H H
Table 504.3(2) is used when sizing single-wall vent connectors attached to a
Type B double-wall common vent.
Note: Each appliance may be either Category 1 draft hood equipped or fan-
assisted type.
FIGURE B-7
VENT SYSTEM SERVING TWO OR MORE APPLIANCES
WITH TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL VENT AND
SINGLE-WALL METAL VENT CONNECTORS
Table 504.3(4) is used when sizing single-wall metal vent connectors
attached to a tile-lined masonry chimney.
Note: "A" is the equivalent cross-sectional area of the tile liner.
Note: Each appliance may be either Category I draft hood equipped or fan-
assisted type.
FIGURE B-9
MASONRY CHIMNEY SERVING TWO OR MORE APPLIANCES
WITH SINGLE-WALL METAL VENT CONNECTORS
TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL
H GAS VENT USED AS
CONNECTORS
A --
VENT CAP
-TILE-LINED MASONRY
CHIMNEY
a.
^
CONNECTOR
RISE "R"
Table 504.3(3) is used when sizing Type B double-wall vent connectors
attached to a tile-lined masonry chimney.
Note: "A" is the equivalent cross-sectional area of the tile liner.
Note: Each appliance may be either Category I draft hood equipped or fan-
assisted type.
FIGURE B-8
MASONRY CHIMNEY SERVING TWO OR MORE APPLIANCES
WITH TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL VENT CONNECTOR
Asbestos cement Type B or single-wall metal pipe vent serving two or more
draft-hood-equipped appliances [see Table 504.3(5)].
FIGURE B-10
ASBESTOS CEMENT TYPE B OR SINGLE-WALL
METAL VENT SYSTEM SERVING TWO OR MORE
DRAFT-HOOD-EQUIPPED APPLIANCES
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE"
799
APPENDIX B
m
VENT CONNECTOR
TEE SAME SIZE AS
SEGMENT ABOVE
•COMMON VENT SIZE BASED—
ON ALL INPUTS ENTERING THIS
SEGMENT, AND AVAILABLE
TOTAL HEIGHT
Example: Manifolded Common Vent Connector L, shall be no greater than
18 times the common vent connector manifold inside diameter; i.e., a 4-inch
(1 02 mm) inside diameter common vent connector manifold shall not exceed
72 inches (1829 mm) in length (see Section 504.3.4).
Note: This is an illustration of a typical manifolded vent connector. Different
appliance, vent connector, or common vent types are possible. Consult
Section 502.3.
FIGURE B-11
USE OF MANIFOLD COMMON VENT CONNECTOR
BTU/H
INPUT
INCREASE VENT
CONNECTOR SIZE
IF NECESSARY
CU
•AVAILABLE TOTAL HEIGHT
U H' EQUALS RISE PLUS
DISTANCE BETWEEN TEES
TEE SAME
-SIZE AS
SEGMENT
ABOVE
OTHER INPUTS
FROM BELOW
Vent connector size depends on:
• Input
• Rise
• Available total height "H"
• Table 504.3(1) connectors
Common vent size depends on:
• Combined inputs
• Available total height "H"
• Table 504.3(1) common vent
FIGURE B-1 3
MULTISTORY GAS VENT DESIGN PROCEDURE
FOR EACH SEGMENT OF SYSTEM
SEE SECTION
504.3.5 Lm- |_ .
-VENT CAP
COMMON VENT
ff^J
Example: Offset Common Vent
Note: This is an illustration of a typical offset vent. Different appliance, vent
connector, or vent types are possible. Consult Sections 504.2 and 504.3.
FIGURE B-12
USE OF OFFSET COMMON VENT
USE INDIVIDUAL
VENT FOR
TOP FLOOR
APPLIANCE IF
CONNECTOR
REQUIREMENT FOR \
RISE OF TOTAL
HEIGHT CANNOT
BE MET
AVAILABLE TOTAL
HEIGHT FOR TOP
FLOOR APPLIANCE
CONNECTOR TABLE
TOP FLOOR _
APPLIANCE
3.
=r=6
AVAILABLE TOTAL
HEIGHT FOR
THIRD-FLOOR
-APPLIANCE
CONNECTOR TABLE
THIRD FLOOR -
APPLIANCE
3.
AVAILABLE TOTAL
HEIGHT FOR
SECOND-FLOOR
APPLIANCE
CONNECTOR TABLE
SECOND-FLOOR -
APPLIANCE
S
f
0—
USE AVAILABLE TOTAL HEIGHT R
TOP FLOOR APPLIANCE AND
COMBINE INPUT OF ALL APPLIAN
ON COMMON VENT
-THIRD INTERCONNECTION TEE
-AVAILABLE TOTAL HEIGHT AND
THIRD-FLOOR APPLIANCE AND
COMBINED INPUT OF THREE
APPLIANCES (IFTOP FLOOR
APPLIANCE IS NOT CONNECTS
MEASURED TOTAL HEIGHTTO
VENT TOP)
SECOND INTERCONNECTION!
-USE AVAILABLE TOTAL HEIGHT
SECOND-FLOOR APPLIANCE Al
COMBINED HEAT INPUT OFTW<
APPLIANCES
- FIRST INTERCONNECTION TEE
DESIGN VENT CONNECTOR FOR FIR:
FLOOR APPLIANCE AS AN INDIVIDUA
VENT OF THIS TOTAL HEIGHT FOR IN
OF FIRST FLOOR APPLIANCE
j£-
-TEE WITH CAP OPTIONAL
FIRST-FLOOR -
APPLIANCE
•EACH INTERCONNECTION TEE IS SAME SIZE AS THE
SEGMENT OF COMMON VENT DIRECTLY ABOVE
Principles of design of multistory vents using vent connector and common
vent design tables (see Sections 504.3.1 1 through 504.3.17).
FIGURE B-14
MULTISTORY VENT SYSTEMS
800
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX B
TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL -
GAS VENT
ELBOW
SINGLE WALL
CONNECTOR
10 ft
DRAFT HOOD EQUIPPED APPLIANCE
120,000 BTU/H INPUT
TYPE-B DOUBLE-WALL-
GAS VENT
10 FT LATERAL-
II
TrT
I 1
I I
I 1
I s
I I
1 1
I i
I I
I I
I I
I I
i1 I
X
JJ
30 FT
VENT CONNECTOR
FAN ASSISTED APPLIANCE
80,000 BTU/H INPUT
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.293 1 W.
FIGURE B-15 (EXAMPLE 1)
SINGLE DRAFT-HOOD-EQUIPPED APPLIANCE
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W.
FIGURE B-1 6 (EXAMPLE 2)
SINGLE FAN-ASSISTED APPLIANCE
Example 2: Single fan-assisted appliance.
An installer has an 80,000 Btu per hour input fan-assisted
appliance that must be installed using 10 feet of lateral con-
nector attached to a 30-foot-high Type B vent. Two 90-
degree elbows are needed for the installation. Can a single-
wall metal vent connector be used for this application?
Solution:
Table 504.2(2) refers to the use of single-wall metal vent con-
nectors with Type B vent. In the first column find the row
associated with a 30-foot height and a 10-foot lateral. Read
across this row, looking at the FAN Min and FAN Max col-
umns, to find that a 3-inch-diameter single-wall metal vent
connector is not recommended. Moving to the next larger size
single wall connector (4 inches), note that a 4-inch-diameter
single-wall metal connector has a recommended minimum
vent capacity of 91,000 Btu per hour and a recommended
maximum vent capacity of 144,000 Btu per hour. The 80,000
Btu per hour fan-assisted appliance is outside this range, so
the conclusion is that a single-wall metal vent connector can-
not be used to vent this appliance using 10 feet of lateral for
the connector.
However, if the 80,000 Btu per hour input appliance could
be moved to within 5 feet of the vertical vent, then a 4-inch
single-wall metal connector could be used to vent the
appliance. Table 504.2(2) shows the acceptable range of vent
capacities for a 4-inch vent with 5 feet of lateral to be
between 72,000 Btu per hour and 157,000 Btu per hour.
If the appliance cannot be moved closer to the vertical
vent, then Type B vent could be used as the connector
material. In this case, Table 504.2(1) shows that for a 30-foot-
high vent with 10 feet of lateral, the acceptable range of vent
capacities for a 4-inch-diameter vent attached to a fan-
assisted appliance is between 37,000 Btu per hour and
150,000 Btu per hour.
Example 3: Interpolating between table values.
An installer has an 80,000 Btu per hour input appliance with
a 4-inch-diameter draft hood outlet that needs to be vented
into a 12-foot-high Type B vent. The vent connector has a 5-
foot lateral length and is also Type B. Can this appliance be
vented using a 4-inch-diameter vent?
Solution:
Table 504.2(1) is used in the case of an all Type B vent sys-
tem. However, since there is no entry in Table 504.2(1) for a
height of 12 feet, interpolation must be used. Read down the
4-inch diameter NAT Max column to the row associated with
10-foot height and 5-foot lateral to find the capacity value of
77,000 Btu per hour. Read further down to the 15-foot height,
5-foot lateral row to find the capacity value of 87,000 Btu per
hour. The difference between the 15-foot height capacity
value and the 10-foot height capacity value is 10,000 Btu per
hour. The capacity for a vent system with a 12-foot height is
equal to the capacity for a 10-foot height plus 2 / 5 of the differ-
ence between the 10-foot and 15-foot height values, or
77,000 + % (10,000) = 81,000 Btu per hour. Therefore, a 4-
inch-diameter vent may be used in the installation.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
801
APPENDIX B
EXAMPLES USING COMMON VENTING TABLES
Example 4: Common venting two draft-hood-equipped
appliances.
A 35,000 Btu per hour water heater is to be common vented
with a 150,000 Btu per hour furnace using a common vent
with a total height of 30 feet. The connector rise is 2 feet for
the water heater with a horizontal length of 4 feet. The con-
nector rise for the furnace is 3 feet with a horizontal length of
8 feet. Assume single-wall metal connectors will be used with
Type B vent. What size connectors and combined vent should
be used in this installation?
Solution:
Table 504.3(2) should be used to size single-wall metal vent
connectors attached to Type B vertical vents. In the vent con-
nector capacity portion of Table 504.3(2), find the row asso-
ciated with a 30-foot vent height. For a 2-foot rise on the vent
connector for the water heater, read the shaded columns for
draft-hood-equipped appliances to find that a 3-inch-diameter
vent connector has a capacity of 37,000 Btu per hour. There-
fore, a 3-inch single-wall metal vent connector may be used
with the water heater. For a draft-hood-equipped furnace with
a 3-foot rise, read across the appropriate row to find that a 5-
inch-diameter vent connector has a maximum capacity of
1 20,000 Btu per hour (which is too small for the furnace) and
a 6-inch-diameter vent connector has a maximum vent capac-
ity of 172,000 Btu per hour. Therefore, a 6-inch-diameter
vent connector should be used with the 150,000 Btu per hour
furnace. Since both vent connector horizontal lengths are less
than the maximum lengths listed in Section 504.3.2, the table
values may be used without adjustments.
In the common vent capacity portion of Table 504.3(2),
find the row associated with a 30-foot vent height and read
over to the NAT + NAT portion of the 6-inch-diameter
column to find a maximum combined capacity of 257,000
Btu per hour. Since the two appliances total only 1 85,000 Btu
per hour, a 6-inch common vent may be used.
Example 5a: Common venting a draft-hood-equipped
water heater with a fan-assisted furnace into a Type B
vent.
In this case, a 35,000 Btu per hour input draft-hood-
equipped water heater with a 4-inch-diameter draft hood
outlet, 2 feet of connector rise, and 4 feet of horizontal length
is to be common vented with a 100,000 Btu per hour fan-
assisted furnace with a 4-inch-diameter flue collar, 3 feet of
connector rise, and 6 feet of horizontal length. The common
vent consists of a 30-foot height of Type B vent. What are the
recommended vent diameters for each connector and the
common vent? The installer would like to use a single-wall
metal vent connector.
Solution: [Table 504.3(2)].
Water Heater Vent Connector Diameter. Since the water
heater vent connector horizontal length of 4 feet is less than
the maximum value listed in Section 504.3.2, the venting
table values may be used without adjustments. Using the
Vent Connector Capacity portion of Table 504.3(2), read
down the Total Vent Height (H) column to 30 feet and read
across the 2-foot Connector Rise (R) row to the first Btu per
hour rating in the NAT Max column that is equal to or greater
than the water heater input rating. The table shows that a 3-
inch vent connector has a maximum input rating of 37,000
_[
Z2
COMBINED CAPACITY
35,000 + 1 60,000 = 1 65,000 BTU/H
-TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL
GAS VENT
SINGLE WALL
CONNECTORS
DRAFT HOOD-EQUIPPED
WATER HEATER
35,000 BTU/H INPUT
DRAFT HOOD-EQUIPMENT
FURNACE
150,000 BTU/H INPUT
^
TYPES DOUBLE-WALL -
GAS VENT
COMBINED CAPACITY
35,000 + 100,000= 135,000 BTU/H
a
FAN-ASSISTED
FURNACE
100,000 BTU/H
INPUT
O
SINGLE-WALL-
CONNECTORS
WATER HEATER
35,000 BTU/H
INPUT
FIGURE B-17 (EXAMPLE 4)
COMMON VENTING TWO DRAFT-
HOOD-EQUIPPED APPLIANCES
FIGURE B-18 (EXAMPLE 5A)
COMMON VENTING A DRAFT HOOD WITH A FAN-ASSISTED
FURNACE INTO A TYPE B DOUBLE-WALL COMMON VENT
802
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX B
Btu per hour. Although this is greater than the water heater
input rating, a 3-inch vent connector is prohibited by Section
504.3.21. A 4-inch vent connector has a maximum input rat-
ing of 67,000 Btu per hour and is equal to the draft hood out-
let diameter. A 4-inch vent connector is selected. Since the
water heater is equipped with a draft hood, there are no mini-
mum input rating restrictions.
Furnace Vent Connector Diameter. Using the Vent
Connector Capacity portion of Table 504.3(2), read down the
Total Vent Height (H) column to 30 feet and across the 3-foot
Connector Rise (/?) row. Since the furnace has a fan-assisted
combustion system, find the first FAN Max column with a
Btu per hour rating greater than the furnace input rating. The
4- inch vent connector has a maximum input rating of 1 19,000
Btu per hour and a minimum input rating of 85,000 Btu per
hour. The 100,000 Btu per hour furnace in this example falls
within this range, so a 4-inch connector is adequate. Since the
furnace vent connector horizontal length of 6 feet does not
exceed the maximum value listed in Section 504.3.2, the
venting table values may be used without adjustment. If the
furnace had an input rating of 80,000 Btu per hour, then a
Type B vent connector [see Table 504.3(1)] would be needed
in order to meet the minimum capacity limit.
Common Vent Diameter. The total input to the common
vent is 135,000 Btu per hour. Using the Common Vent
Capacity portion of Table 504.3(2), read down the Total Vent
Height (//) column to 30 feet and across this row to find the
smallest vent diameter in the FAN + NAT column that has a
Btu per hour rating equal to or greater than 135,000 Btu per
hour. The 4-inch common vent has a capacity of 132,000 Btu
per hour and the 5-inch common vent has a capacity of
202,000 Btu per hour. Therefore, the 5-inch common vent
should be used in this example.
Summary. In this example, the installer may use a 4-inch-
diameter, single-wall metal vent connector for the water
heater and a 4-inch-diameter, single-wall metal vent
connector for the furnace. The common vent should be a 5-
inch-diameter Type B vent.
Example 5b: Common venting into a masonry chimney.
In this case, the water heater and fan-assisted furnace of
Example 5a are to be common vented into a clay tile-lined
masonry chimney with a 30-foot height. The chimney is not
exposed to the outdoors below the roof line. The internal
dimensions of the clay tile liner are nominally 8 inches by 12
inches. Assuming the same vent connector heights, laterals,
and materials found in Example 5a, what are the recom-
mended vent connector diameters, and is this an acceptable
installation?
Solution:
Table 504.3(4) is used to size common venting installations
involving single-wall connectors into masonry chimneys.
Water Heater Vent Connector Diameter. Using Table
504.3(4), Vent Connector Capacity, read down the Total Vent
Height (H) column to 30 feet, and read across the 2-foot
Connector Rise (R) row to the first Btu per hour rating in the
NAT Max column that is equal to or greater than the water
heater input rating. The table shows that a 3-inch vent
connector has a maximum input of only 3 1 ,000 Btu per hour
while a 4-inch vent connector has a maximum input of 57,000
Btu per hour. A 4-inch vent connector must therefore be used.
Furnace Vent Connector Diameter. Using the Vent
Connector Capacity portion of Table 504.3(4), read down the
Total Vent Height (H) column to 30 feet and across the 3-foot
Connector Rise (R) row. Since the furnace has a fan-assisted
combustion system, find the first FAN Max column with a
Btu per hour rating greater than the furnace input rating. The
4-inch vent connector has a maximum input rating of 127,000
Btu per hour and a minimum input rating of 95,000 Btu per
hour. The 100,000 Btu per hour furnace in this example falls
within this range, so a 4-inch connector is adequate.
Masonry Chimney. From Table B-l, the equivalent area
for a nominal liner size of 8 inches by 12 inches is 63.6
square inches. Using Table 504.3(4), Common Vent
Capacity, read down the FAN + NAT column under the
Minimum Internal Area of Chimney value of 63 to the row
for 30-foot height to find a capacity value of 739,000 Btu per
hour. The combined input rating of the furnace and water
heater, 135,000 Btu per hour, is less than the table value, so
this is an acceptable installation.
Section 504.3.17 requires the common vent area to be no
greater than seven times the smallest listed appliance
categorized vent area, flue collar area, or draft hood outlet
area. Both appliances in this installation have 4-inch-diameter
outlets. From Table B-l, the equivalent area for an inside
diameter of 4 inches is 12.2 square inches. Seven times 12.2
equals 85.4, which is greater than 63.6, so this configuration
is acceptable.
Example 5c: Common venting into an exterior masonry
chimney.
In this case, the water heater and fan-assisted furnace of
Examples 5 a and 5b are to be common vented into an exterior
masonry chimney. The chimney height, clay tile liner dimen-
sions, and vent connector heights and laterals are the same as
in Example 5b. This system is being installed in Charlotte,
North Carolina. Does this exterior masonry chimney need to
be relined? If so, what corrugated metallic liner size is recom-
mended? What vent connector diameters are recommended?
Solution:
According to Section 504.3.20, Type B vent connectors are
required to be used with exterior masonry chimneys. Use
Tables 504.3(7a), (7b) to size FAN+NAT common venting
installations involving Type-B double wall connectors into
exterior masonry chimneys.
The local 99-percent winter design temperature needed to
use Table 504.3(7b) can be found in the ASHRAE Handbook
of Fundamentals. For Charlotte, North Carolina, this design
temperature is 19°F.
Chimney Liner Requirement. As in Example 5b, use the
63 square inch Internal Area columns for this size clay tile
liner. Read down the 63 square inch column of Table
504.3(7a) to the 30-foot height row to find that the combined
appliance maximum input is 747,000 Btu per hour. The
combined input rating of the appliances in this installation,
135,000 Btu per hour, is less than the maximum value, so this
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
803
APPENDIX B
criterion is satisfied. Table 504.3(7b), at a 19°F design
temperature, and at the same vent height and internal area
used above, shows that the minimum allowable input rating
of a space-heating appliance is 470,000 Btu per hour. The
furnace input rating of 100,000 Btu per hour is less than this
minimum value. So this criterion is not satisfied, and an
alternative venting design needs to be used, such as a Type B
vent shown in Example 5a or a listed chimney liner system
shown in the remainder of the example.
According to Section 504.3.19, Table 504.3(1) or 504.3(2)
is used for sizing corrugated metallic liners in masonry
chimneys, with the maximum common vent capacities
reduced by 20 percent. This example will be continued
assuming Type B vent connectors.
Water Heater Vent Connector Diameter. Using Table
504.3(1), Vent Connector Capacity, read down the Total Vent
Height (H) column to 30 feet, and read across the 2-foot
Connector Rise (R) row to the first Btu/h rating in the NAT
Max column that is equal to or greater than the water heater
input rating. The table shows that a 3-inch vent connector has
a maximum capacity of 39,000 Btu/h. Although this rating is
greater than the water heater input rating, a 3-inch vent
connector is prohibited by Section 504.3.21. A 4-inch vent
connector has a maximum input rating of 70,000 Btu/h and is
equal to the draft hood outlet diameter. A 4-inch vent
connector is selected.
Furnace Vent Connector Diameter. Using Table 504.3(1),
Vent Connector Capacity, read down the Vent Height (H)
column to 30 feet, and read across the 3-foot Connector Rise
(R) row to the first Btu per hour rating in the FAN Max
column that is equal to or greater than the furnace input
rating. The 100,000 Btu per hour furnace in this example falls
within this range, so a 4-inch connector is adequate.
Chimney Liner Diameter. The total input to the common
vent is 135,000 Btu per hour. Using the Common Vent
Capacity Portion of Table 504.3(1), read down the Vent
Height (H) column to 30 feet and across this row to find the
smallest vent diameter in the FAN+NAT column that has a
Btu per hour rating greater than 135,000 Btu per hour. The 4-
inch common vent has a capacity of 138,000 Btu per hour.
Reducing the maximum capacity by 20 percent (Section
504.3.19) results in a maximum capacity for a 4-inch
corrugated liner of 110,000 Btu per hour, less than the total
input of 135,000 Btu per hour. So a larger liner is needed.
The 5-inch common vent capacity listed in Table 504.3(1) is
210,000 Btu per hour, and after reducing by 20 percent is
168,000 Btu per hour. Therefore, a 5-inch corrugated metal
liner should be used in this example.
Single-Wall Connectors. Once it has been established that
relining the chimney is necessary, Type B double-wall vent
connectors are not specifically required. This example could
be redone using Table 504.3(2) for single-wall vent
connectors. For this case, the vent connector and liner
diameters would be the same as found above with Type B
double-wall connectors.
TABLE B-1
MASONRY CHIMNEY LINER DIMENSIONS
WITH CIRCULAR EQUIVALENTS"
NOMINAL
LINER SIZE
(Inches)
INSIDE
DIMENSIONS
OF LINER
(Inches)
INSIDE DIAMETER
OR EQUIVALENT
DIAMETER
(Inches)
EQUIVALENT
AREA
(square Inches)
4x8
27, x 67 2
4
12.2
5
19.6
6
28.3
7
38.3
8x8
6% x 6%
7.4
42.7
8
50.3
8x12
67 2 x 10V 2
9
63.6
10
78.5
12 x 12
9 3 / 4 x 9 %
10.4
83.3
11
95
12x16
97 2 xl37 2
11.8
107.5
12
113.0
14
153.9
16 x 16
137 4 x 137 4
14.5
162.9
15
176.7
16x20
13 x 17
16.2
206.1
18
254.4
20x20
16 5 / 4 xl67 4
18.2
260.2
20
314.1
20x24
167 2 x 207 2
20.1
314.2
22 x
380.1
24x24
207 4 x 207 4
22.1
380.1
24
452.3
24x28
207 4 x 207 4
24.1
456.2
28x28
247 4 x 247„
26.4
543.3
27
572.5
30x30
257 2 x257,
27.9
607
30
706.8
30x36
257 2 x3l7 2
30.9
749.9
33
855.3
36x36
3l7 2 x3l7 2
34.4
929.4
36
1017.9
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 square inch = 645.16 m 2 .
a. Where liner sizes differ dimensionally from those shown in Table B-1,
equivalent diameters may be determined from published tables for square
and rectangular ducts of equivalent carrying capacity or by other
engineering methods.
804
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
APPENDIX B
U-O
CQ
UJ
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806 201 2 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX C
EXIT TERMINALS OF MECHANICAL
DRAFT AND DIRECT-VENT VENTING SYSTEMS
(This appendix is informative and is not part of the code. This appendix is an excerpt from the 2012 International Fuel
Gas Code, coordinated with the section numbering of the International Residential Code.)
DIRECT-VENT TERMINAL CLEARANCE
MINIMUM CLEARANCE, C
CLEARANCE (IN.)
6
INPUT (BTU/HR)
10.000 OR LESS
10.001 TO 50,000 9
OVER 50,000 12
[SEE SECTION 503.8, ITEM 3]
MECHANICAL DRAFT
VENT TERMINAL
[SEE SECTION 503.8, ITEM 1]
FORCED-AIR INLET
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, I British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W.
APPENDIX C
EXIT TERMINALS OF MECHANICAL DRAFT AND DIRECT-VENT VENTING SYSTEMS
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
807
808 201 2 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
APPENDSX D
RECOMMENDED PROCEDURE FOR SAFETY
INSPECTION OF AN EXISTING APPLIANCE INSTALLATION
(This appendix is informative and is not part of the code. This appendix is an excerpt from the 2012 International Fuel
Gas Code, coordinated with the section numbering of the International Residential Code.)
The following procedure is intended as a guide to aid in
determining that an appliance is properly installed and is in a
safe condition for continuing use.
This procedure is intended for cental furnace and boiler
installations and may not be applicable to all installations.
(a) This procedure should be performed prior to any
attempt at modification of the appliance or of the
installation.
(b) If it is determined that there is a condition that could
result in unsafe operation, shut off the appliance and
advise the owner of the unsafe condition. The
following steps should be followed in making the
safety inspection:
1 Conduct a check for gas leakage. (See Section
406.6)
2. Visually inspect the venting system for proper
size and horizontal pitch and determine there is
no blockage or restriction, leakage, corrosion
and other deficiencies that could cause an
unsafe condition.
3 Shut off all gas to the appliance and shut off
any other fuel-gas-burning appliance within the
same room. Use the shutoff valve in the
supply line to each appliance.
4. Inspect burners and crossovers for blockage
and corrosion.
5. Furnace installations: Inspect the heat
exchanger for cracks, openings or excessive
corrosion.
6. Boiler installations: Inspect for evidence of
water or combustion product leaks.
7. Close all building doors and windows and all
doors between the space in which the appliance
is located and other spaces of the building that
can be closed. Turn on any clothes dryers. Turn
on any exhaust fans, such as range hoods and
bathroom exhausts, so they will operate at
maximum speed. Do not operate a summer
exhaust fan. Close fireplace dampers. If, after
completing Steps 8 through 13, it is believed
sufficient combustion air is not available, refer
to Section 304 of this code.
8. Place the appliance being inspected in
operation. Follow the lighting instructions.
Adjust the thermostat so appliance will operate
continuously.
9. Determine that the pilot, where provided, is
burning properly and that the main burner
ignition is satisfactory by interrupting and
reestablishing the electrical supply to the
appliance in any convenient manner. If the
appliance is equipped with a continuous pilot,
test all pilot safety devices to determine if they
are operating properly by extinguishing the
pilot when the main burner is off and
determining, after 3 minutes, that the main
burner gas does not flow upon a call for heat. If
the appliance is not provided with a pilot, test
for proper operation of the ignition system in
accordance with the appliance manufacturer's
lighting and operating instructions.
10. Visually determine that the main burner gas is
burning properly (i.e., no floating, lifting or
flashback). Adjust the primary air shutters as
required. If the appliance is equipped with high
and low flame controlling or flame modulation,
check for proper main burner operation at low
flame.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
Test for spillage at the draft hood relief opening
after 5 minutes of main burner operation. Use
the flame of a match or candle or smoke.
Turn on all other fuel-gas-burning appliances
within the same room so they will operate at
their full inputs. Follow lighting instructions
for each appliance.
1 on the appliance being
Repeat Steps 10 and
inspected.
Return doors, windows, exhaust fans, fireplace
dampers and any other fuel-gas-buming
appliance to their previous conditions of use.
Furnace installations: Check both the limit
control and the fan control for proper operation.
Limit control operation can be checked by
blocking the circulating air inlet or temporarily
disconnecting the electrical supply to the
blower motor and determining that the limit
control acts to shut off the main burner gas.
Boiler installations: Verify that the water
pumps are in operating condition. Test low
water cutoffs, automatic feed controls, pressure
and temperature limit controls and relief valves
in accordance with the manufacturer's
recommendations to determine that they are in
operating condition.
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APPENDIX E
MANUFACTURED HOUSING USED AS DWELLINGS
(The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.)
SECTION AE1 01
SCOPE
AE101.1 General. These provisions shall be applicable only
to a manufactured home used as a single dwelling unit
installed on privately owned (nonrental) lots and shall apply
to the following:
1. Construction, alteration and repair of any foundation
system which is necessary to provide for the installa-
tion of a manufactured home unit.
2. Construction, installation, addition, alteration, repair or
maintenance of the building service equipment which is
necessary for connecting manufactured homes to water,
fuel, or power supplies and sewage systems.
3. Alterations, additions or repairs to existing manufac-
tured homes. The construction, alteration, moving,
demolition, repair and use of accessory buildings and
structures, and their building service equipment, shall
comply with the requirements of the codes adopted by
this jurisdiction.
These provisions shall not be applicable to the design and
construction of manufactured homes and shall not be deemed
to authorize either modifications or additions to manufac-
tured homes where otherwise prohibited.
Exception: In addition to these provisions, new and
replacement manufactured homes to be located in flood
hazard areas as established in Table R301.2(l) of the
International Residential Code shall meet the applicable
requirements of Section R322 of the International Resi-
dential Code.
SECTION AE1 02
APPLICATION TO EXISTING MANUFACTURED
HOMES AND BUILDING SERVICE EQUIPMENT
AE102.1 General. Manufactured homes and their building
service equipment to which additions, alterations or repairs
are made shall comply with all the requirements of these pro-
visions for new facilities, except as specifically provided in
this section.
AE102.2 Additions, alterations or repairs. Additions made
to a manufactured home shall conform to one of the follow-
ing:
1. Be certified under the National Manufactured Housing
Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 (42
U.S.C. Section 5401, et seq.).
2. Be designed and constructed to comply with the appli-
cable provisions of the National Manufactured Housing
Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 (42
U.S.C. Section 5401, et seq.).
3. Be designed and constructed in compliance with the
code adopted by this jurisdiction.
Additions shall be structurally separated from the manu-
factured home.
Exception: A structural separation need not be provided
when structural calculations are provided to justify the
omission of such separation.
Alterations or repairs may be made to any manufac-
tured home or to its building service equipment without
requiring the existing manufactured home or its building
service equipment to comply with all the requirements of
these provisions, provided the alteration or repair con-
forms to that required for new construction, and provided
further that no hazard to life, health or safety will be cre-
ated by such additions, alterations or repairs.
Alterations or repairs to an existing manufactured
home, which are nonstructural and do not adversely affect
any structural member or any part of the building or struc-
ture having required fire protection, may be made with
materials equivalent to those of which the manufactured
home structure is constructed, subject to approval by the
building official.
Exception: The installation or replacement of glass
shall be required for new installations.
Minor additions, alterations and repairs to existing
building service equipment installations may be made in
accordance with the codes in effect at the time the original
installation was made, subject to the approval of the build-
ing official, and provided such additions, alterations and
repairs will not cause the existing building service equip-
ment to become unsafe, insanitary or overloaded.
AE102.3 Existing installations. Building service equipment
lawfully in existence at the time of the adoption of the appli-
cable codes may have their use, maintenance or repair contin-
ued if the use, maintenance or repair is in accordance with the
original design and no hazard to life, health or property has
been created by such building service equipment.
AE102.4 Existing occupancy. Manufactured homes, which
are in existence at the time of the adoption of these provi-
sions, may have their existing use or occupancy continued if
such use or occupancy was legal at the time of the adoption of
these provisions, provided such continued use is not danger-
ous to life, health and safety.
The use or occupancy of any existing manufactured home
shall not be changed unless evidence satisfactory to the build-
ing official is provided to show compliance with all applica-
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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APPENDIX E
ble provisions of the codes adopted by this jurisdiction. Upon
any change in use or occupancy, the manufactured home shall
cease to be classified as such within the intent of these provi-
sions.
AE102.5 Maintenance. All manufactured homes and their
building service equipment, existing and new, and all parts
thereof, shall be maintained in a safe and sanitary condition.
All devices or safeguards which are required by applicable
codes or by the Manufactured Home Standards shall be main-
tained in conformance to the code or standard under which it
was installed. The owner or the owner's designated agent
shall be responsible for the maintenance of manufactured
homes, accessory buildings, structures and their building ser-
vice equipment. To determine compliance with this section,
the building official may cause any manufactured home,
accessory building or structure to be reinspected.
AE102.6 Relocation. Manufactured homes which are to be
relocated within this jurisdiction shall comply with these pro-
visions.
SECTION AE201
DEFINITIONS
AE201.1 General. For the purpose of these provisions, cer-
tain abbreviations, terms, phrases, words and their derivatives
shall be construed as defined or specified herein.
ACCESSORY BUILDING. Any building or structure, or
portion thereto, located on the same property as a manufac-
tured home which does not qualify as a manufactured home
as defined herein.
BUILDING SERVICE EQUIPMENT. Refers to the
plumbing, mechanical and electrical equipment, including
piping, wiring, fixtures and other accessories which provide
sanitation, lighting, heating, ventilation, cooling, fire protec-
tion and facilities essential for the habitable occupancy of a
manufactured home or accessory building or structure for its
designated use and occupancy.
MANUFACTURED HOME. A structure transportable in
one or more sections which, in the traveling mode, is 8 body
feet (2438 body mm) or more in width or 40 body feet (12
192 body mm) or more in length or, when erected on site, is
320 or more square feet (30 m 2 ), and which is built on a per-
manent chassis and designed to be used as a dwelling with or
without a permanent foundation when connected to the
required utilities, and includes the plumbing, heating, air-con-
ditioning and electrical systems contained therein; except that
such term shall include any structure which meets all the
requirements of this paragraph, except the size requirements
and with respect to which the manufacturer voluntarily files a
certification required by the Secretary of the U.S. Department
of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and complies
with the standards established under this title.
For mobile homes built prior to June 15, 1976, a label cer-
tifying compliance with the Standard for Mobile Homes,
NFPA 50 1 , ANSI 1 1 9. 1 , in effect at the time of manufacture,
is required. For the purpose of these provisions, a mobile
home shall be considered a manufactured home.
MANUFACTURED HOME INSTALLATION. Construc-
tion which is required for the installation of a manufactured
home, including the construction of the foundation system,
required structural connections thereto and the installation of
on-site water, gas, electrical and sewer systems and connec-
tions thereto which are necessary for the normal operation of
the manufactured home.
MANUFACTURED HOME STANDARDS. The Manufac-
tured Home Construction and Safety Standards as promul-
gated by the HUD.
PRIVATELY OWNED (NONRENTAL) LOT. A parcel of
real estate outside of a manufactured home rental community
(park) where the land and the manufactured home to be
installed thereon are held in common ownership.
SECTION AE301
PERMITS
AE301.1 Initial installation. A manufactured home shall not
be installed on a foundation system, reinstalled or altered
without first obtaining a permit from the building official. A
separate permit shall be required for each manufactured home
installation. When approved by the building official, such
permit may include accessory buildings and structures, and
their building service equipment, when the accessory build-
ings or structures will be constructed in conjunction with the
manufactured home installation.
AE301.2 Additions, alterations and repairs to a manufac-
tured home. A permit shall be obtained to alter, remodel,
repair or add accessory buildings or structures to a manufac-
tured home subsequent to its initial installation. Permit issu-
ance and fees therefor shall be in conformance to the codes
applicable to the type of work involved.
An addition made to a manufactured home, as defined in
these provisions, shall comply with these provisions.
AE301.3 Accessory buildings. Except as provided in Sec-
tion AE301.1, permits shall be required for all accessory
buildings and structures, and their building service equip-
ment. Permit issuance and fees therefor shall be in confor-
mance the codes applicable to the types of work involved.
AE301.4 Exempted work. A permit shall not be required for
the types of work specifically exempted by the applicable
codes. Exemption from the permit requirements of any of
said codes shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any
work to be done in violation of the provisions of said codes or
any other laws or ordinances of Ms jurisdiction.
SECTION AE302
APPLICATION FOR PERMIT
AE302.1 Application. To obtain a manufactured home
installation permit, the applicant shall first file an application,
in writing, on a form furnished by the building official for
812
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX E
that purpose. At the option of the building official, every such
application shall:
1. Identify and describe the work to be covered by the
permit for which application is made.
2. Describe the land on which the proposed work is to be
done by legal description, street address or similar
description that will readily identify and definitely
locate the proposed building or work.
3. Indicate the use or occupancy for which the proposed
work is intended.
4. Be accompanied by plans, diagrams, computations and
specifications, and other data as required in Section
AE302.2.
5. Be accompanied by a soil investigation when required
by Section AE502.2.
6. State the valuation of any new building or structure; or
any addition, remodeling or alteration to an existing
building.
7. Be signed by permittee, or permittee's authorized
agent, who may be required to submit evidence to indi-
cate such authority.
8. Give such other data and information as may be
required by the building official.
AE302.2 Plans and specifications. Plans, engineering calcu-
lations, diagrams and other data as required by the building
official shall be submitted in not less than two sets with each
application for a permit. The building official may require
plans, computations and specifications to be prepared and
designed by an engineer or architect licensed by the state to
practice as such.
Where no unusual site conditions exist, the building offi-
cial may accept approved standard foundation plans and
details in conjunction with the manufacturer's approved
installation instructions without requiring the submittal of
engineering calculations.
AE302.3 Information on plans and specifications. Plans
and specifications shall be drawn to scale on substantial paper
or cloth, and shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the loca-
tion, nature and extent of the work proposed and shown in
detail that it will conform to the provisions of these provi-
sions and all relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations.
The building official shall determine what information is
required on plans and specifications to ensure compliance.
SECTION AE303
PERMITS ISSUANCE
AE303.1 Issuance. The application, plans and specifications,
and other data filed by an applicant for permit shall be
reviewed by the building official. Such plans may be
reviewed by other departments of this jurisdiction to verify
compliance with any applicable laws under their jurisdiction.
If the building official finds that the work described in an
application for a permit, and the plans, specifications and
other data filed therewith, conform to the requirements of
these provisions, and other data filed therewith conform to
the requirements of these provisions and other pertinent
codes, laws and ordinances, and that the fees specified in Sec-
tion AE304 have been paid, the building official shall issue a
permit therefor to the applicant.
When the building official issues the permit where plans
are required, the building official shall endorse in writing or
stamp the plans and specifications APPROVED. Such
approved plans and specifications shall not be changed, mod-
ified or altered without authorization from the building offi-
cial, and all work shall be done in accordance with the
approved plans.
AE303.2 Retention of plans. One set of approved plans and
specifications shall be returned to the applicant and shall be
kept on the site of the building or work at all times during
which the work authorized thereby is in progress. One set of
approved plans, specifications and computations shall be
retained by the building official until final approval of the
work.
AE303.3 Validity of permit. The issuance of a permit or
approval of plans and specifications shall not be construed to
be a permit for, or an approval of, any violation of any of the
provisions of these provisions or other pertinent codes of any
other ordinance of the jurisdiction. No permit presuming to
give authority to violate or cancel these provisions shall be
valid.
The issuance of a permit based on plans, specifications
and other data shall not prevent the building official from
thereafter requiring the correction of errors in said plans,
specifications and other data, or from preventing building
operations being carried on thereunder when in violation of
these provisions or of any other ordinances of this jurisdic-
tion.
AE303.4 Expiration. Every permit issued by the building
official under these provisions shall expire by limitation and
become null and void if the work authorized by such permit is
not commenced within 1 80 days from the date of such permit,
or if the work authorized by such permit is suspended or
abandoned at any time after the work is commenced for a
period of 1 80 days. Before such work can be recommenced, a
new permit shall be first obtained, and the fee therefor shall
be one-half the amount required for a new permit for such
work, provided no changes have been made or will be made
in the original plans and specifications for such work, and
provided further that such suspension or abandonment has
not exceeded one year. In order to renew action on a permit
after expiration, the permittee shall pay a new full permit fee.
Any permittee holding an unexpired permit may apply for
an extension of the time within which work may commence
under that permit when the permittee is unable to commence
work within the time required by this section for good and
satisfactory reasons. The building official may extend the
time for action by the permittee for a period not exceeding
180 days upon written request by the permittee showing that
circumstances beyond the control of the permittee have pre-
vented action from being taken. No permit shall be extended
more than once.
AE303.5 Suspension or revocation. The building official
may, in writing, suspend or revoke a permit issued under
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
813
APPENDIX E
these provisions whenever the permit is issued in error or on
the basis of incorrect information supplied, or in violation of
any ordinance or regulation or any of these provisions.
SECTION AE304
FEES
AE304.1 Permit fees. The fee for each manufactured home
installation permit shall be established by the building offi-
cial.
When permit fees are to be based on the value or valuation
of the work to be performed, the determination of value or
valuation under these provisions shall be made by the build-
ing official. The value to be used shall be the total value of all
work required for the manufactured home installation plus
the total value of all work required for the construction of
accessory buildings and structures for which the permit is
issued, as well as all finish work, painting, roofing, electrical,
plumbing, heating, air conditioning, elevators, fire-extin-
guishing systems and any other permanent equipment which
is a part of the accessory building or structure. The value of
the manufactured home itself shall not be included.
AE304.2 Plan review fees. When a plan or other data are
required to be submitted by Section AE302.2, a plan review
fee shall be paid at the time of submitting plans and specifica-
tions for review. Said plan review fee shall be as established
by the building official. Where plans are incomplete or
changed so as to require additional plan review, an additional
plan review fee shall be charged at a rate as established by the
building official.
AE304.3 Other provisions.
AE304.3.1 Expiration of plan review. Applications for
which no permit is issued within 1 80 days following the
date of application shall expire by limitation, and plans
and other data submitted for review may thereafter be
returned to the applicant or destroyed by the building offi-
cial. The building official may extend the time for action
by the applicant for a period not exceeding 180 days upon
request by the applicant showing that circumstances
beyond the control of the applicant have prevented action
from being taken. No application shall be extended more
than once. In order to renew action on an application after
expiration, the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a
new plan review fee.
AE304.3.2 Investigation fees — work without a permit.
AE304.3.2.1 Investigation. Whenever any work for
which a permit is required by these provisions has been
commenced without first obtaining said permit, a spe-
cial investigation shall be made before a permit may be
issued for such work.
AE304.3.2.2 Fee. An investigation fee, in addition to
the permit fee, shall be collected whether or not a per-
mit is then or subsequently issued. The investigation
fee shall be equal to the amount of the permit fee
required. The minimum investigation fee shall be the
same as the minimum fee established by the building
official. The payment of such investigation fee shall not
exempt any person from compliance with all other pro-
visions of either these provisions or other pertinent
codes or from any penalty prescribed by law.
AE304.3.3 Fee refunds.
AE304.3.3.1 Permit fee erroneously paid or col-
lected. The building official may authorize the refund-
ing of any fee paid hereunder which was erroneously
paid or collected.
AE304.3.3.2 Permit fee paid when no work done.
The building official may authorize the refunding of not
more than 80 percent of the permit fee paid when no
work has been done under a permit issued in accor-
dance with these provisions.
AE304.3.3.3 Plan review fee. The building official
may authorize the refunding of not more than 80 per-
cent of the plan review fee paid when an application for
a permit for which a plan review fee has been paid is
withdrawn or canceled before any plan reviewing is
done.
The building official shall not authorize the refund-
ing of any fee paid, except upon written application by
the original permittee not later than 180 days after the
date of the fee payment.
SECTION AE305
INSPECTIONS
AE305.1 General. All construction or work for which a man-
ufactured home installation permit is required shall be subject
to inspection by the building official, and certain types of
construction shall have continuous inspection by special
inspectors as specified in Section AE306. A survey of the lot
may be required by the building official to verify that the
structure is located in accordance with the approved plans.
It shall be the duty of the permit applicant to cause the
work to be accessible and exposed for inspection purposes.
Neither the building official nor this jurisdiction shall be lia-
ble for expense entailed in the removal or replacement of any
material required to allow inspection.
AE305.2 Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the per-
son doing the work authorized by a manufactured home
installation permit to notify the building official that such
work is ready for inspection. The building official may
require that every request for inspection be filed at least one
working day before such inspection is desired. Such request
may be in writing or by telephone at the option of the build-
ing official.
It shall be the duty of the person requesting any inspec-
tions required, either by these provisions or other applicable
codes, to provide access to and means for proper inspection
of such work.
AE305.3 Inspection record card. Work requiring a manu-
factured home installation permit shall not be commenced
until the permit holder or the permit holder's agent shall have
posted an inspection record card in a conspicuous place on
the premises and in such position as to allow the building offi-
cial conveniently to make the required entries thereon regard-
ing inspection of the work. This card shall be maintained in
814
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX E
such position by the permit holder until final approval has
been issued by the building official.
AE305.4 Approval required. Work shall not be done on any
part of the manufactured home installation beyond the point
indicated in each successive inspection without first obtain-
ing the approval of the building official. Such approval shall
be given only after an inspection has been made of each suc-
cessive step in the construction as indicated by each of the
inspections required in Section AE305.5. There shall be a
final inspection and approval of the manufactured home
installation, including connections to its building service
equipment, when completed and ready for occupancy or use.
AE305.5 Required inspections.
AE305.5.1 Structural inspections for the manufactured
home installation. Reinforcing steel or structural frame-
work of any part of any manufactured home foundation
system shall not be covered or concealed without first
obtaining the approval of the building official. The build-
ing official, upon notification from the permit holder or the
permit holder's agent, shall make the following inspec-
tions and shall either approve that portion of the construc-
tion as completed or shall notify the permit holder or the
permit holder's agent wherein the same fails to comply
with these provisions or other applicable codes:
1. Foundation inspection: To be made after excava-
tions for footings are completed and any required
reinforcing steel is in place. For concrete founda-
tions, any required forms shall be in place prior to
inspection. All materials for the foundation shall be
on the job, except where concrete from a central
mixing plant (commonly termed "transit mixed") is
to be used, the concrete materials need not be on the
job. Where the foundation is to be constructed of
approved treated wood, additional framing inspec-
tions as required by the building official may be
required.
2. Concrete slab or under-floor inspection: To be made
after all in-slab or under-floor building service
equipment, conduit, piping accessories and other
ancillary equipment items are in place but before
any concrete is poured or the manufactured home is
installed.
3. Anchorage inspection: To be made after the manu-
factured home has been installed and permanently
anchored.
AE305.5.2 Structural inspections for accessory build-
ing and structures. Inspections for accessory buildings
and structures shall be made as set forth in this code.
AE305.5.3 Building service equipment inspections. All
building service equipment which is required as a part of a
manufactured home installation, including accessory
buildings and structures authorized by the same permit,
shall be inspected by the building official. Building service
equipment shall be inspected and tested as required by the
applicable codes. Such inspections and testing shall be
limited to site construction and shall not include building
service equipment which is a part of the manufactured
home itself. No portion of any building service equipment
intended to be concealed by any permanent portion of the
construction shall be concealed until inspected and
approved. Building service equipment shall not be con-
nected to a water, fuel or power supply, or sewer system,
until authorized by the building official.
AE305.5.4 Final inspection. When finish grading and the
manufactured home installation, including the installation
of all required building service equipment, is completed
and the manufactured home is ready for occupancy, a final
inspection shall be made.
AE305.6 Other inspections. In addition to the called inspec-
tions specified in Section AE305.5.4, the building official
may make or require other inspections of any construction
work to ascertain compliance with these provisions or other
codes and laws which are enforced by the code enforcement
agency.
SECTION AE306
SPECIAL INSPECTIONS
AE306.1 General. In addition to the inspections required by
Section AE305, the building official may require the owner to
employ a special inspector during construction of specific
types of work as described in this code.
SECTION AE307
UTILITY SERVICE
AE307.1 General. Utility service shall not be provided to
any building service equipment which is regulated by these
provisions or other applicable codes, and for which a manu-
factured home installation permit is required by these provi-
sions, until approved by the building official.
SECTION AE401
OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION
AE401.1 Manufactured homes. A manufactured home shall
be limited in use to a single dwelling unit.
AE401.2 Accessory buildings. Accessory buildings shall be
classified as to occupancy by the building official as set forth
in this code.
SECTION AE402
LOCATION ON PROPERTY
AE402.1 General. Manufactured homes and accessory
buildings shall be located on the property in accordance with
applicable codes and ordinances of this jurisdiction.
SECTION AE501
DESIGN
AE501.1 General. A manufactured home shall be installed
on a foundation system which is designed and constructed to
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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APPENDIX E
sustain within the stress limitations specified in this code and
all loads specified in this code.
Exception: When specifically authorized by the building
official, foundation and anchorage systems which are con-
structed in accordance with the methods specified in Sec-
tion AE600 of these provisions, or in the HUD, Permanent
Foundations for Manufactured Housing, 1984 Edition,
Draft, shall be deemed to meet the requirements of this
appendix.
AE501.2 Manufacturer's installation instructions. The
installation instructions as provided by the manufacturer of
the manufactured home shall be used to determine permissi-
ble points of support for vertical loads and points of attach-
ment for anchorage systems used to resist horizontal and
uplift forces.
AE501.3 Rationality. Any system or method of construction
to be used shall submit to a rational analysis in accordance
with well-established principles of mechanics.
SECTION AE502
FOUNDATION SYSTEMS
AE502.1 General. Foundation systems designed and con-
structed in accordance with this section may be considered a
permanent installation.
AE502.2 Soil classification. The classification of the soil at
each manufactured home site shall be determined when
required by the building official. The building official may
require that the determination be made by an engineer or
architect licensed by the state to conduct soil investigations.
The classification shall be based on observation and any
necessary tests of the materials disclosed by borings or exca-
vations made in appropriate locations. Additional studies may
be necessary to evaluate soil strength, the effect of moisture
variation on soil-bearing capacity, compressibility and expan-
siveness.
When required by the building official, the soil classifica-
tion design-bearing capacity and lateral pressure shall be
shown on the plans.
AE502.3 Footings and foundations. Footings and founda-
tions, unless otherwise specifically provided, shall be con-
structed of materials specified by this code for the intended
use and in all cases shall extend below the frost line. Footings
of concrete and masonry shall be of solid material. Founda-
tions supporting untreated wood shall extend at least 8 inches
(203 mm) above the adjacent finish grade. Footings shall
have a minimum depth below finished grade of 12 inches
(305 mm) unless a greater depth is recommended by a foun-
dation investigation.
Piers and bearing walls shall be supported on masonry or
concrete foundations or piles, or other approved foundation
systems which shall be of sufficient capacity to support all
loads.
AE502.4 Foundation design. When a design is provided, the
foundation system shall be designed in accordance with the
applicable structural provisions of this code and shall be
designed to minimize differential settlement. Where a design
is not provided, the minimum foundation requirements shall
be as set forth in this code.
AE502.5 Drainage. Provisions shall be made for the control
and drainage of surface water away from the manufactured
home.
AE502.6 Under-floor clearances— ventilation and access.
A minimum clearance of 12 inches (305 mm) shall be main-
tained beneath the lowest member of the floor support fram-
ing system. Clearances from the bottom of wood floor joists
or perimeter joists shall be as specified in this code.
Under-floor spaces shall be ventilated with openings as
specified in this code. If combustion air for one or more heat-
producing appliance is taken from within the under-floor
spaces, ventilation shall be adequate for proper appliance
operation.
Under-floor access openings shall be provided. Such
openings shall be not less than 1 8 inches (457 mm) in any
dimension and not less than 3 square feet (0.279 nr) in area,
and shall be located so that any water supply and sewer drain
connections located under the manufactured home are acces-
sible.
SECTION AE503
SKIRTING AND PERIMETER ENCLOSURES
AE503.1 Skirting and permanent perimeter enclosures.
Skirting and permanent perimeter enclosures shall be
installed only where specifically required by other laws or
ordinances. Skirting, when installed, shall be of material suit-
able for exterior exposure and contact with the ground. Per-
manent perimeter enclosures shall be constructed of materials
as required by this code for regular foundation construction.
Skirting shall be installed in accordance with the skirting
manufacturer's installation instructions. Skirting shall be ade-
quately secured to ensure stability, minimize vibration and
susceptibility to wind damage, and compensate for possible
frost heave.
AE503.2 Retaining walls. Where retaining walls are used as
a permanent perimeter enclosure, they shall resist the lateral
displacements of soil or other materials and shall conform to
this code as specified for foundation walls. Retaining walls
and foundation walls shall be constructed of approved treated
wood, concrete, masonry or other approved materials or com-
bination of materials as for foundations as specified in this
code. Siding materials shall extend below the top of the exte-
rior of the retaining or foundation wall, or the joint between
the siding and enclosure wall shall be flashed in accordance
with this code.
SECTION AE504
STRUCTURAL ADDITIONS
AE504.1 General. Accessory buildings shall not be structur-
ally supported by or attached to a manufactured home unless
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX E
engineering calculations are submitted to substantiate any
proposed structural connection.
Exception: The building official may waive the submis-
sion of engineering calculations if it is found that the
nature of the work applied for is such that engineering cal-
culations are not necessary to show conformance to these
provisions.
SECTION AE505
BUILDING SERVICE EQUIPMENT
AE505.I General. The installation, alteration, repair,
replacement, addition to or maintenance of the building ser-
vice equipment within the manufactured home shall conform
to regulations set forth in the Manufactured Home Standards.
Such work which is located outside the manufactured home
shall comply with the applicable codes adopted by this juris-
diction.
SECTION AE506
EXITS
AE506.1 Site development. Exterior stairways and ramps
which provide egress to the public way shall comply with the
applicable provisions of this code.
AE506.2 Accessory buildings. Every accessory building or
portion thereof shall be provided with exits as required by
this code.
SECTION AE507
OCCUPANCY, FIRE SAFETY AND ENERGY
CONSERVATION STANDARDS
AE507.1 General. Alterations made to a manufactured home
subsequent to its initial installation shall conform to the occu-
pancy, fire safety and energy conservation requirements set
forth in the Manufactured Home Standards.
SECTION AE600
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR FOUNDATION
SYSTEMS
AE600.1 General. This section is applicable only where spe-
cifically authorized by the building official.
SECTION AE601
FOOTINGS AND FOUNDATIONS
AE601.1 General. The capacity of individual load-bearing
piers and their footings shall be sufficient to sustain all loads
specified in this code within the stress limitations specified in
this code. Footings, unless otherwise approved by the build-
ing official, shall be placed level on firm, undisturbed soil or
an engineered fill which is free of organic material, such as
weeds and grasses. Where used, an engineered fill shall pro-
vide a minimum load-bearing capacity of not less than 1,000
pounds per square foot (48 kN/m 2 ). Continuous footings shall
conform to the requirements of this code. Section AE502 of
these provisions shall apply to footings and foundations con-
structed under the provisions of this section.
SECTION AE602
PIER CONSTRUCTION
AE602.1 General. Piers shall be designed and constructed to
distribute loads evenly. Multiple-section homes may have
concentrated roof loads which will require special consider-
ation. Load-bearing piers may be constructed utilizing one of
the following methods listed. Such piers shall be considered
to resist only vertical forces acting in a downward direction.
They shall not be considered as providing any resistance to
horizontal loads induced by wind or earthquake forces.
1. A prefabricated load-bearing device that is listed and
labeled for the intended use.
2. Mortar shall comply with ASTM C 270, Type M, S or
N; this may consist of one part Portland cement, one-
half part hydrated lime and four parts sand by volume.
Lime shall not be used with plastic or waterproof
cement.
3. A cast-in-place concrete pier with concrete having
specified compressive strength at 28 days of 2,500
pounds per square inch (17 225 kPa).
Alternative materials and methods of construction may be
used for piers which have been designed by an engineer or
architect licensed by the state to practice as such.
Caps and leveling spacers may be used for leveling of the
manufactured home. Spacing of piers shall be as specified in
the manufacturer's installation instructions, if available, or by
an approved designer.
SECTION AE603
HEIGHT OF PIERS
AE603.1 General. Piers constructed as indicated in Section
AE602 may have heights as follows:
1. Except for comer piers, piers 36 inches (914 mm) or
less in height may be constructed of masonry units,
placed with cores or cells vertically. Piers shall be
installed with their long dimension at right angles to the
main frame member they support and shall have a min-
imum cross- sectional area of 128 square inches (82 560
mm 2 ). Piers shall be capped with minimum 4-inch (102
mm) solid masonry units or equivalent.
2. Piers between 36 and 80 inches (914 and 2032 mm) in
height and all corner piers greater than 24 inches (610
mm) in height shall be at least 16 inches by 16 inches
(406 mm by 406 mm) consisting of interlocking
masonry units and shall be fully capped with minimum
4-inch (102 mm) solid masonry units or equivalent.
3. Piers greater than 80 inches (2032 mm) in height may
be constructed in accordance with the provisions of
Item 2, provided the piers shall be filled solid with
grout and reinforced with four continuous No. 5 bars.
One bar shall be placed in each corner cell of hollow
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
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APPENDIX E
masonry unit piers or in each corner of the grouted
space of piers constructed of solid masonry units.
4. Cast-in-place concrete piers meeting the same size and
height limitations of Items 1, 2 and 3 may be substi-
tuted for piers constructed of masonry units.
SECTION AE604
ANCHORAGE INSTALLATIONS
AE604.1 Ground anchors. Ground anchors shall be
designed and installed to transfer the anchoring loads to the
ground. The load-carrying portion of the ground anchors shall
be installed to the full depth called for by the manufacturer's
installation instructions and shall extend below the estab-
lished frost line into undisturbed soil.
Manufactured ground anchors shall be listed and installed
in accordance with the terms of their listing and the anchor
manufacturer's instructions, and shall include the means of
attachment of ties meeting the requirements of Section
AE605. Ground anchor manufacturer's installation instruc-
tions shall include the amount of preload required and load
capacity in various types of soil. These instructions shall
include tensioning adjustments which may be needed to pre-
vent damage to the manufactured home, particularly damage
that can be caused by frost heave. Each ground anchor shall
be marked with the manufacturer's identification and listed
model identification number which shall be visible after
installation. Instructions shall accompany each listed ground
anchor specifying the types of soil for which the anchor is
suitable under the requirements of this section.
Each approved ground anchor, when installed, shall be
capable of resisting an allowable working load at least equal
to 3,150 pounds (14 kN) in the direction of the tie plus a 50-
percent overload [4,725 pounds (21 kN) total] without fail-
ure. Failure shall be considered to have occurred when the
anchor moves more than 2 inches (5 1 mm) at a load of 4,725
pounds (21 kN) in the direction of the tie installation. Those
ground anchors which are designed to be installed so that
loads on the anchor are other than direct withdrawal shall be
designed and installed to resist an applied design load of
3,150 pounds (14 kN) at 40 to 50 degrees from vertical or
within the angle limitations specified by the home manufac-
turer without displacing the tie end of the anchor more than 4
inches (102 mm) horizontally. Anchors designed for the con-
nection of multiple ties shall be capable of resisting the com-
bined working load and overload consistent with the intent
expressed herein.
When it is proposed to use ground anchors and the build-
ing official has reason to believe that the soil characteristics at
a given site are such as to render the use of ground anchors
advisable, or when there is doubt regarding the ability of the
ground anchors to obtain their listed capacity, the building
official may require that a representative field installation be
made at the site in question and tested to demonstrate ground-
anchor capacity. The building official shall approve the test
procedures.
AE604.2 Anchoring equipment. Anchoring equipment,
when installed as a permanent installation, shall be capable of
resisting all loads as specified within these provisions. When
the stabilizing system is designed by an engineer or architect
licensed by the state to practice as such, alternative designs
may be used, providing the anchoring equipment to be used is
capable of withstanding a load equal to 1.5 times the calcu-
lated load. All anchoring equipment shall be listed and
labeled as being capable of meeting the requirements of these
provisions. Anchors as specified in this code may be attached
to the main frame of the manufactured home by an approved
3 / l6 -inch- thick (4.76 mm) slotted steel plate anchoring device.
Other anchoring devices or methods meeting the require-
ments of these provisions may be permitted when approved
by the building official.
Anchoring systems shall be so installed as to be perma-
nent. Anchoring equipment shall be so designed to prevent
self-disconnection with no hook ends used.
AE604.3 Resistance to weather deterioration. All anchor-
ing equipment, tension devices and ties shall have a resistance
to deterioration as required by this code.
AE604.4 Tensioning devices. Tensioning devices, such as
turnbuckles or yoke-type fasteners, shall be ended with clevis
or welded eyes.
SECTION AE605
TIES, MATERIALS AND INSTALLATION
AE605.1 General. Steel strapping, cable, chain or other
approved materials shall be used for ties. All ties shall be fas-
tened to ground anchors and drawn tight with turnbuckles or
other adjustable tensioning devices or devices supplied with
the ground anchor. Tie materials shall be capable of resisting
an allowable working load of 3,150 pounds (14 kN) with no
more than 2 percent elongation and shall withstand a 50-per-
cent overload [4,750 pounds (21 kN)]. Ties shall comply with
the weathering requirements of Section AE604.3. Ties shall
connect the ground anchor and the main structural frame.
Ties shall not connect to steel outrigger beams which fasten
to and intersect the main structural frame unless specifically
stated in the manufacturer's installation instructions. Connec-
tion of cable ties to main frame members shall be 7 s -inch
(15.9 mm) closed-eye bolts affixed to the frame member in an
approved manner. Cable ends shall be secured with at least
two U-bolt cable clamps with the "U" portion of the clamp
installed on the short (dead) end of the cable to ensure
strength equal to that required by this section.
Wood floor support systems shall be fixed to perimeter
foundation walls in accordance with provisions of this code.
The minimum number of ties required per side shall be suffi-
cient to resist the wind load stated in this code. Ties shall be
as evenly spaced as practicable along the length of the manu-
factured home with the distance from each end of the home
and the tie nearest that end not exceeding 8 feet (2438 mm).
When continuous straps are provided as vertical ties, such ties
shall be positioned at rafters and studs. Where a vertical tie
and diagonal tie are located at the same place, both ties may
be connected to a single anchor, provided the anchor used is
capable of carrying both loads. Multiple-section manufac-
tured homes require diagonal ties only. Diagonal ties shall be
installed on the exterior main frame and slope to the exterior
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX E
at an angle of 40 to 50 degrees from the vertical or within the
angle limitations specified by the home manufacturer. Verti-
cal ties which are not continuous over the top of the manufac-
tured home shall be attached to the main frame.
SECTION AE606
REFERENCED STANDARDS
ASTM C 270—04 Specification for Mortar for Unit
Masonry AE602
NFPA 501 —03 Standard on Manufactured
Housing AE201
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE® 819
820 201 2 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX F
RADON CONTROL METHODS
(The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.)
SECTION AF1 01
SCOPE
AF101.1 General. This appendix contains requirements for
new construction in jurisdictions where radon-resistant con-
struction is required.
Inclusion of this appendix by jurisdictions shall be deter-
mined through the use of locally available data or determina-
tion of Zone 1 designation in Figure AF101 and Table
AF101(1).
SECTION AF1 02
DEFINITIONS
AF102.1 General. For the purpose of these requirements, the
terms used shall be defined as follows:
DRAIN TILE LOOP. A continuous length of drain tile or
perforated pipe extending around all or part of the internal or
external perimeter of a basement or crawl space footing.
RADON GAS. A naturally occurring, chemically inert,
radioactive gas that is not detectable by human senses. As a
gas, it can move readily through particles of soil and rock,
and can accumulate under the slabs and foundations of homes
where it can easily enter into the living space through con-
struction cracks and openings.
SOIL-GAS-RET ARDER. A continuous membrane of 6-mil
(0.15 mm) polyethylene or other equivalent material used to
retard the flow of soil gases into a building.
SUBMEMBRANE DEPRESSURIZATION SYSTEM. A
system designed to achieve lower submembrane air pressure
relative to crawl space air pressure by use of a vent drawing
air from beneath the soil-gas-retarder membrane
SUBSLAB DEPRESSURIZATION SYSTEM (Active). A
system designed to achieve lower subslab air pressure rela-
tive to indoor air pressure by use of a fan-powered vent draw-
ing air from beneath the slab.
SUBSLAB DEPRESSURIZATION SYSTEM (Passive). A
system designed to achieve lower subslab air pressure rela-
tive to indoor air pressure by use of a vent pipe routed
through the conditioned space of a building and connecting
the subslab area with outdoor air, thereby relying on the con-
vective flow of air upward in the vent to draw air from
beneath the slab.
SECTION AF1 03
REQUIREMENTS
AF103.1 General. The following construction techniques are
intended to resist radon entry and prepare the building for
post-construction radon mitigation, if necessary (see Figure
AF102). These techniques are required in areas where desig-
nated by the jurisdiction.
AF103.2 Subfloor preparation. A layer of gas-permeable
material shall be placed under all concrete slabs and other
floor systems that directly contact the ground and are within
the walls of the living spaces of the building, to facilitate
future installation of a subslab depressurization system, if
needed. The gas-permeable layer shall consist of one of the
following:
1. A uniform layer of clean aggregate, a minimum of 4
inches (102 mm) thick. The aggregate shall consist of
material that will pass through a 2-inch (51 mm) sieve
and be retained by a 7 4 -inch (6.4 mm) sieve.
2. A uniform layer of sand (native or fill), a minimum of 4
inches (102 mm) thick, overlain by a layer or strips of
geotextile drainage matting designed to allow the lat-
eral flow of soil gases.
3. Other materials, systems or floor designs with demon-
strated capability to permit depressurization across the
entire subfloor area.
AF103.3 Soil-gas-retarder. A minimum 6-mil (0.15 mm) [or
3-mil (0.075 mm) cross-laminated] polyethylene or equiva-
lent flexible sheeting material shall be placed on top of the
gas-permeable layer prior to casting the slab or placing the
floor assembly to serve as a soil-gas-retarder by bridging any
cracks that develop in the slab or floor assembly, and to pre-
vent concrete from entering the void spaces in the aggregate
base material. The sheeting shall cover the entire floor area
with separate sections of sheeting lapped at least 12 inches
(305 mm). The sheeting shall fit closely around any pipe,
wire or other penetrations of the material. All punctures or
tears in the material shall be sealed or covered with additional
sheeting.
AF103.4 Entry routes. Potential radon entry routes shall be
closed in accordance with Sections AF103.4.1 through
AF 103. 4. 10.
AF1 03.4.1 Floor openings. Openings around bathtubs,
showers, water closets, pipes, wires or other objects that
penetrate concrete slabs, or other floor assemblies, shall be
filled with a polyurethane caulk or equivalent sealant
applied in accordance with the manufacturer's recommen-
dations.
AF103.4.2 Concrete joints. All control joints, isolation joints,
construction joints, and any other joints in concrete slabs or
between slabs and foundation walls shall be sealed with a caulk
or sealant. Gaps and joints shall be cleared of loose material
and filled with polyurethane caulk or other elastomeric sealant
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
821
APPENDIX F
applied in accordance with the manufacturer's recommenda-
tions.
AF103.4.3 Condensate drains. Condensate drains shall
be trapped or routed through nonperforated pipe to day-
light.
AF103.4.4 Sumps. Sump pits open to soil or serving as
the termination point for subslab or exterior drain tile
loops shall be covered with a gasketed or otherwise sealed
lid. Sumps used as the suction point in a subslab depres-
surization system shall have a lid designed to accommo-
date the vent pipe. Sumps used as a floor drain shall have a
lid equipped with a trapped inlet.
AF103.4.5 Foundation walls. Hollow block masonry
foundation walls shall be constructed with either a contin-
uous course of solid masonry, one course of masonry
grouted solid, or a solid concrete beam at or above fin-
ished ground surface to prevent the passage of air from the
interior of the wall into the living space. Where a brick
veneer or other masonry ledge is installed, the course
immediately below that ledge shall be sealed. Joints,
cracks or other openings around all penetrations of both
exterior and interior surfaces of masonry block or wood
foundation walls below the ground surface shall be filled
with polyurethane caulk or equivalent sealant. Penetra-
tions of concrete walls shall be filled.
AF1 03.4.6 Dampproofing. The exterior surfaces of por-
tions of concrete and masonry block walls below the
ground surface shall be dampproofed in accordance with
Section R406.
AFKB.4.7 Air-handling units. Air-handling units in
crawl spaces shall be sealed to prevent air from being
drawn into the unit.
Exception: Units with gasketed seams or units that are
otherwise sealed by the manufacturer to prevent leak-
age.
AF1 03.4.8 Ducts. Ductwork passing through or beneath a
slab shall be of seamless material unless the air-handling
system is designed to maintain continuous positive pres-
sure within such ducting. Joints in such ductwork shall be
sealed to prevent air leakage.
Ductwork located in crawl spaces shall have all seams
and joints sealed by closure systems in accordance with
Section Ml 601 .4.1.
AF1 03.4.9 Crawl space floors. Openings around all pen-
etrations through floors above crawl spaces shall be
caulked or otherwise filled to prevent air leakage.
A Fl 03.4. 10 Crawl space access. Access doors and other
openings or penetrations between basements and adjoining
crawl spaces shall be closed, gasketed or otherwise filled
to prevent air leakage.
AF103.5 Passive submembrane depressurization system.
In buildings with crawl space foundations, the following
components of a passive submembrane depressurization sys-
tem shall be installed during construction.
Exception: Buildings in which an approved mechanical
crawl space ventilation system or other equivalent system
is installed.
AF103.5.1 Ventilation. Crawl spaces shall be provided
with vents to the exterior of the building. The minimum
net area of ventilation openings shall comply with Section
R408.1.
AF103.5.2 Soil-gas-retarder. The soil in crawl spaces
shall be covered with a continuous layer of minimum 6-
mil (0.15 mm) polyethylene soil-gas-retarder. The ground
cover shall be lapped a minimum of 12 inches (305 mm) at
joints and shall extend to all foundation walls enclosing
the crawl space area.
AF1 03.5.3 Vent pipe. A plumbing tee or other approved
connection shall be inserted horizontally beneath the
sheeting and connected to a 3- or 4-inch-diameter (76 or
102 mm) fitting with a vertical vent pipe installed through
the sheeting. The vent pipe shall be extended up through
the building floors, and terminate at least 12 inches (305
mm) above the roof in a location at least 10 feet (3048
mm) away from any window or other opening into the
conditioned spaces of the building that is less than 2 feet
(610 mm) below the exhaust point, and 10 feet (3048 mm)
from any window or other opening in adjoining or adja-
cent buildings.
AF103.6 Passive subslab depressurization system. In base-
ment or slab-on-grade buildings, the following components of
a passive subslab depressurization system shall be installed
during construction.
AF1 03.6.1 Vent pipe. A minimum 3 -inch-diameter (76
mm) ABS, PVC or equivalent gas-tight pipe shall be
embedded vertically into the subslab aggregate or other
permeable material before the slab is cast. A "T" fitting or
equivalent method shall be used to ensure that the pipe
opening remains within the subslab permeable material.
Alternatively, the 3-inch (76 mm) pipe shall be inserted
directly into an interior perimeter drain tile loop or through
a sealed sump cover where the sump is exposed to the sub-
slab aggregate or connected to it through a drainage sys-
tem.
The pipe shall be extended up through the building
floors, and terminate at least 12 inches (305 mm) above
the surface of the roof in a location at least 10 feet (3048
mm) away from any window or other opening into the
conditioned spaces of the building that is less than 2 feet
(610 mm) below the exhaust point, and 10 feet (3048 mm)
from any window or other opening in adjoining or adja-
cent buildings.
AF103.6.2 Multiple vent pipes. In buildings where inte-
rior footings or other barriers separate the subslab aggre-
gate or other gas-permeable material, each area shall be
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX F
fitted with an individual vent pipe. Vent pipes shall con-
nect to a single vent that terminates above the roof or each
individual vent pipe shall terminate separately above the
roof.
AF103.7 Vent pipe drainage. All components of the radon
vent pipe system shall be installed to provide positive drain-
age to the ground beneath the slab or soil-gas-retarder.
AF103.8 Vent pipe accessibility. Radon vent pipes shall be
accessible for future fan installation through an attic or other
area outside the habitable space.
Exception: The radon vent pipe need not be accessible in
an attic space where an approved roof-top electrical sup-
ply is provided for future use.
AF103.9 Vent pipe identification. All exposed and visible
interior radon vent pipes shall be identified with at least one
label on each floor and in accessible attics. The label shall
read: "Radon Reduction System."
AF103.10 Combination foundations. Combination base-
ment/cmwl space or slab-on-grade/crawl space foundations
shall have separate radon vent pipes installed in each type of
foundation area. Each radon vent pipe shall terminate above
the roof or shall be connected to a single vent that terminates
above the roof.
AF103.11 Building depressurization. Joints in air ducts and
plenums in unconditioned spaces shall meet the requirements
of Section Ml 601. Thermal envelope air infiltration require-
ments shall comply with the energy conservation provisions
in Chapter 1 1. Fireblocking shall meet the requirements con-
tained in Section R302.1 1.
AF103.12 Power source. To provide for future installation
of an active submembrane or subslab depressurization sys-
tem, an electrical circuit terminated in an approved box shall
be installed during construction in the attic or other antici-
pated location of vent pipe fans. An electrical supply shall
also be accessible in anticipated locations of system failure
alarms.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE® 823
APPENDIX F
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824
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX F
TABLE AF101(1)
HIGH RADON-POTENTIAL (ZONE 1) COUNTIES 8
ALABAMA
CONNECTICUT
Moultrie
Warren
Wallace
Jackson
Wilkin
Calhoun
Fairfield
Ogle
Washington
Washington
Kalamazoo
Winona
Clay
Middlesex
Peoria
Wayne
Wichita
Lenawee
Wright
Yellow Medicine
Cleburne
New Haven
Piatt
Wells
Wyandotte
St. Joseph
Colbert
New London
Pike
White
Washtenaw
Coosa
Putnam
Whitley
KENTUCKY
MISSOURI
Franklin
GEORGIA
Rock Island
Adair
MINNESOTA
Andrew
Jackson
Cobb
Sangamon
IOWA
Allen
Becker
Atchison
Lauderdale
De Kalb
Schuyler
All Counties
Barren
Big Stone
Buchanan
Lawrence
Fulton
Scott
Bourbon
Blue Earth
Cass
Limestone
Gwinnett
Stark
KANSAS
Boyle
Brown
Clay
Clinton
Madison
Stephenson
Atchison
Bullitt
Carver
Morgan
IDAHO
Tazewell
Barton
Casey
Chippewa
Holt
Talladega
Benewah
Vermilion
Brown
Clark
Clay
Iron
Blaine
Warren
Cheyenne
Cumberland
Cottonwood
Jackson
CALIFORNIA
BoiseBonner
Whiteside
Clay
Fayette
Dakota
Nodaway
Santa Barbara
Boundary
Winnebago
Cloud
Franklin
Dodge
Platte
Ventura
Butte
Woodford
Decatur
Green
Douglas
Camas
Dickinson
Harrison
Faribault
MONTANA
COLORADO
Clark
INDIANA
Douglas
Hart
Fillmore
Beaverhead
Adams
Clearwater
Adams
Ellis
Jefferson
Freeborn
Big Horn
Arapahoe
Custer
Allen
Ellsworth
Jessamine
Goodhue
Blaine
Baca
Elmore
Bartholomew
Finney
Lincoln
Grant
Broadwater
Bent
Fremont
Benton
Ford
Marion
Hennepin
Carbon
Boulder
Gooding
Blackford
Geary
Mercer
Houston
Carter
Chaffee
Idaho
Boone
Gove
Metcalfe
Hubbard
Cascade
Cheyenne
Kootenai
Carroll
Graham
Monroe
Jackson
Chouteau
Clear Creek
Latah
Cass
Grant
Nelson
Kanabec
Custer
Crowley
Lemhi
Clark
Gray
Pendleton
Kandiyohi
Daniels
Custer
Shoshone
Clinton
Greeley
Pulaski
Kittson
Dawson
Delta
Valley
De Kalb
Hamilton
Robertson
Lac Qui Parle
Deer Lodge
Denver
Decatur
Haskell
Russell
Le Sueur
Fallon
Dolores
ILLINOIS
Delaware
Hodgeman
Scott
Lincoln
Fergus
Flathead
Douglas
Adams
Elkhart
Jackson
Taylor
Lyon
El Paso
Boone
Fayette
Jewell
Warren
Mahnomen
Gallatin
Elbert
Brown
Fountain
Johnson
Woodford
Marshall
Garfield
Fremont
Bureau
Fulton
Kearny
Martin
Glacier
Garfield
Calhoun
Grant
Kingman
MAINE
McLeod
Granite
Gilpin
Carroll
Hamilton
Kiowa
Androscoggin
Meeker
Hill
Grand
Cass
Hancock
Lane
Aroostook
Mower
Jefferson
Gunnison
Champaign
Harrison
Leavenworth
Cumberland
Murray
Judith Basin
Huerfano
Coles
Hendricks
Lincoln
Franklin
Nicollet
Lake
Jackson
De Kalb
Henry
Logan
Hancock
Nobles
Lewis and Clark
Jefferson
De Witt
Howard
Marion
Kennebec
Norman
Madison
Kiowa
Douglas
Huntington
Marshall
Lincoln
Olmsted
McCone
Kit Carson
Edgar
Jay
McPherson
Oxford
Otter Tail
Meagher
Lake
Ford
Jennings
Meade
Penobscot
Pennington
Missoula
Larimer
Fulton
Johnson
Mitchell
Piscataquis
Pipestone
Park
Las Animas
Greene
Kosciusko
Nemaha
Somerset
Polk
Phillips
Lincoln
Grundy
LaGrange
Ness
York
Pope
Pondera
Logan
Hancock
Lawrence
Norton
Ramsey
Powder River
Mesa
Henderson
Madison
Osborne
MARYLAND
Red Lake
Powell
Moffat
Henry
Marion
Ottawa
Baltimore
Redwood
Prairie
Montezuma
Iroquois
Marshall
Pawnee
Calvert
Renville
Ravalli
Montrose
Jersey
Miami
Phillips
Carroll
Rice
Richland
Morgan
Jo Daviess
Monroe
Pottawatomie
Frederick
Rock
Roosevelt
Otero
Kane
Montgomery
Pratt
Harford
Roseau
Rosebud
Ouray
Kendall
Noble
Rawlins
Howard
Scott
Sanders
Park
Knox
Orange
Republic
Montgomery
Sherburne
Sheridan
Phillips
La Salle
Putnam
Rice
Washington
Sibley
Silver Bow
Pitkin
Lee
Randolph
Riley
Stearns
Stillwater
Prowers
Livingston
Rush
Rooks
MASS.
Steele
Teton
Pueblo
Logan
Scott
Rush
Essex
Stevens
Toole
Rio Blanco
Macon
Shelby
Saline
Middlesex
Swift
Valley
San Miguel
Marshall
St. Joseph
Scott
Worcester
Todd
Wibaux
Summit
Mason
Steuben
Sheridan
Traverse
Yellowstone
Teller
McDonough
Tippecanoe
Sherman
MICHIGAN
Wabasha
Washington
McLean
Tipton
Smith
Branch
Wadena
Weld
Menard
Union
Stanton
Calhoun
Waseca
Yuma
Mercer
Vermillion
Thomas
Cass
Washington
Morgan
Wabash
Trego
(continued)
Hillsdale
Watonwan
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
825
APPENDIX F
TABLE AF101(1)— continued
HIGH RADON-POTENTIAL (ZONE 1) COUNTIES 3
NEBRASKA
Hunterdon
Belmont
Delaware
McPherson
Bland
Hancock
Adams
Mercer
Butler
Franklin
Miner
Botetourt
Hardy
Boone
Monmouth
Carroll
Fulton
Minnehaha
Bristol
Jefferson
Boyd
Burt
Morris
Champaign
Huntingdon
Moody
Brunswick
Marshall
Somerset
Clark
Indiana
Perkins
Buckingham
Mercer
Butler
Sussex
Clinton
Juniata
Potter
Buena Vista
Mineral
Cass
Warren
Columbiana
Lackawanna
Roberts
Campbell
Monongalia
Cedar
Coshocton
Lancaster
Sanborn
Chesterfield
Monroe
Clay
Colfax
NEW MEXICO
Crawford
Lebanon
Spink
Clarke
Morgan
Bernalillo
Darke
Lehigh
Stanley
Clifton Forge
Ohio
Cuming
Dakota
Colfax
Delaware
Luzerne
Sully
Covington
Pendleton
Mora
Fairfield
Lycoming
Turner
Craig
Pocahontas
Dixon
Rio Arriba
Fayette
Mifflin
Union
Cumberland
Preston
Dodge
Douglas
San Miguel
Franklin
Monroe
Walworth
Danville
Summers
Santa Fe
Greene
Montgomery
Yankton
Dinwiddie
Wetzel
Fillmore
Taos
Guernsey
Montour
Fairfax
Franklin
Hamilton
Northampton
TENNESEE
Falls Church
WISCONSIN
Frontier
NEW YORK
Hancock
Northumberland
Anderson
Fluvanna
Buffalo
Furnas
Albany
Hardin
Perry
Bedford
Frederick
Crawford
Gage
Gosper
Greeley
Hamilton
Allegany
Harrison
Schuylkill
Blount
Fredericksburg
Dane
Broome
Holmes
Snyder
Bradley
Giles
Dodge
Cattaraugus
Huron
Sullivan
Claiborne
Goochland
Door
Cayuga
Jefferson
Susquehanna
Davidson
Harrisonburg
Fond du Lac
Harlan
Chautauqua
Knox
Tioga
Giles
Henry
Grant
Hayes
Hitchcock
Chemung
Licking
Union
Grainger
Highland
Green
Chenango
Logan
Venango
Greene
Lee
Green Lake
Hurston
Columbia
Madison
Westmoreland
Hamblen
Lexington
Iowa
Jefferson
Cortland
Marion
Wyoming
Hancock
Louisa
Jefferson
Johnson
Delaware
Mercer
York
Hawkins
Martinsville
Lafayette
Kearney
Knox
Dutchess
Miami
Hickman
Montgomery
Langlade
Erie
Montgomery
RHODE ISLAND
Humphreys
Nottoway
Marathon
Lancaster
Genesee
Morrow
Kent
Jackson
Orange
Menominee
Madison
Greene
Muskingum
Washington
Jefferson
Page
Pepin
Nance
Livingston
Perry
Knox
Patrick
Pierce
Nemaha
Madison
Pickaway
S. CAROLINA
Lawrence
Pittsylvania
Portage
Nuckolls
Onondaga
Pike
Greenville
Lewis
Powhatan
Richland
Otoe
Ontario
Preble
Lincoln
Pulaski
Rock
Pawnee
Orange
Otsego
Richland
S. DAKOTA
Loudon
Radford
Shawano
Phelps
Pierce
Ross
Aurora
Marshall
Roanoke
St. Croix
Putnam
Seneca
Beadle
Maury
Rockbridge
Vernon
Platte
Rensselaer
Shelby
Bon Homme
McMinn
Rockingham
Walworth
Polk
Schoharie
Stark
Brookings
Meigs
Russell
Washington
Red Willow
Schuyler
Summit
Brown
Monroe
Salem
Waukesha
Richardson
Seneca
Tuscarawas
Brule
Moore
Scott
Waupaca
Saline
Steuben
Union
Buffalo
Perry
Shenandoah
Wood
Sarpy
Saunders
Sullivan
Van Wert
Campbell
Roane
Smyth
Tioga
Warren
Charles Mix
Rutherford
Spotsylvania
WYOMING
Seward
Tompkins
Wayne
Clark
Smith
Stafford
Albany
Stanton
Ulster
Wyandot
Clay
Sullivan
Staunton
Big Horn
Thayer
Washington
Codington
Trousdale
Tazewell
Campbell
Washington
Wyoming
PENNSYLVANIA
Corson
Union
Warren
Carbon
Wayne
Webster
Yates
Adams
Davison
Washington
Washington
Converse
Allegheny
Day
Wayne
Waynesboro
Crook
York
N. CAROLINA
Armstrong
Deuel
Williamson
Winchester
Fremont
Alleghany
Beaver
Douglas
Wilson
Wythe
Goshen
NEVADA
Buncombe
Bedford
Edmunds
Hot Springs
Carson City
Cherokee
Berks
Faulk
UTAH
WASHINGTON
Johnson
Douglas
Eureka
Henderson
Blair
Grant
Carbon
Clark
Laramie
Mitchell
Bradford
Hamlin
Duchesne
Ferry
Lincoln
Lander
Rockingham
Bucks
Hand
Grand
Okanogan
Natrona
Lincoln
Transylvania
Butler
Hanson
Piute
Pend Oreille
Niobrara
Lyon
Watauga
Cameron
Hughes
Sanpete
Skamania
Park
Mineral
Carbon
Hutchinson
Sevier
Spokane
Sheridan
Pershing
N. DAKOTA
Centre
Hyde
Uintah
Stevens
Sublette
White Pine
All Counties
Chester
Jerauld
Sweetwater
Clarion
Kingsbury
VIRGINIA
W. VIRGINIA
Teton
NEW
OHIO
Clearfield
Lake
Alleghany
Berkeley
Uinta
HAMPSHIRE
Adams
Clinton
Lincoln
Amelia
Brooke
Washakie
Carroll
Allen
Columbia
Lyman
Appomattox
Grant
Ashland
Cumberland
Marshall
Augusta
Greenbrier
NEW JERSEY
Auglaize
Dauphin
McCook
Bath
Hampshire
a. The EPA recommends that this county listing be supplemented with other available State and local data to further understand the radon potential of a Zone 1
826
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX F
TYPICAL SUBSLAB DEPRESSURIZATION
PASSIVE RADON SYSTEM
GRADE
GRAVEL
LIVING AREA
BASEMENT
SLAB
Y
POLYETHYLENE
SHEETING
GRAVEL '«
L
PASSIVE RADON SYSTEM VENTED
THROUGH SUMP
POLYETHYLENE
SHEETING
CI IHJID DIT '
SUMP PIT
PASSIVE RADON SYSTEM USING
DRAIN TILE LOOP
SUBMEMBRANE DEPRESSURIZATION SYSTEM
FOR CRAWL SPACE
POLYETHYLENE
SHEETING
GRADE
GRAVEL
DRAIN TILE LOOP
POLYETHYLENE
SHEETINGv
PERFORATED
DRAIN TILE
lllllll
FIGURE AF102
RADON-RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION DETAILS FOR FOUR FOUNDATION TYPES
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
827
82g 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX G
v) Wiltfllifiiiliv^d I'UwLOi 0"#%S #%StSL# rlW I I UDv
(The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.)
SECTION AG1 01
GENERAL
AG101.1 General. The provisions of this appendix shall con-
trol the design and construction of swimming pools, spas and
hot tubs installed in or on the lot of a one- or two-family
dwelling.
AG101.2 Pools in flood hazard areas. Pools that are located
in flood hazard areas established by Table R301.2(l), includ-
ing above-ground pools, on-ground pools and in-ground
pools that involve placement of fill, shall comply with Sec-
tion AG101.2.1 orAG101.2.2.
Exception: Pools located in riverine flood hazard areas
which are outside of designated floodways.
AG101.2.1 Pools located in designated floodways.
Where pools are located in designated floodways, docu-
mentation shall be submitted to the building official which
demonstrates that the construction of the pool will not
increase the design flood elevation at any point within the
jurisdiction.
AG101.2.2 Pools located where floodways have not
been designated. Where pools are located where design
flood elevations are specified but floodways have not been
designated, the applicant shall provide a floodway analysis
that demonstrates that the proposed pool will not increase
the design flood elevation more than 1 foot (305 mm) at
any point within the jurisdiction.
SPA, PORTABLE. A nonpermanent structure intended for
recreational bathing, in which all controls, water-heating and
water-circulating equipment are an integral part of the prod-
uct.
SWIMMING POOL. Any structure intended for swimming
or recreational bathing that contains water more than 24
inches (610 mm) deep. This includes in-ground, above-
ground and on-ground swimming pools, hot tubs and spas.
SWIMMING POOL, INDOOR. A swimming pool which is
totally contained within a structure and surrounded on all four
sides by the walls of the enclosing structure.
SWIMMING POOL, OUTDOOR. Any swimming pool
which is not an indoor pool.
SECTION AG1 03
SWIMMING POOLS
AG 103.1 In-ground pools. In-ground pools shall be
designed and constructed in compliance with ANSI/NSPI-5.
AG103.2 Above-ground and on-ground pools. Above-
ground and on-ground pools shall be designed and con-
structed in compliance with ANSI/NSPI-4.
AG103.3 Pools in flood hazard areas. In flood hazard areas
established by Table R301.2(l), pools in coastal high-hazard
areas shall be designed and constructed in compliance with
ASCE 24.
SECTION AG1 02
DEFINITIONS
AG102.1 General. For the purposes of these requirements,
the terms used shall be defined as follows and as set forth in
Chapter 2.
ABOVE-GROUND/ON-GROUND POOL. See "Swim-
ming pool."
BARRIER. A fence, wall, building wall or combination
thereof which completely surrounds the swimming pool and
obstructs access to the swimming pool.
HOT TUB. See "Swimming pool."
IN-GROUND POOL. See "Swimming pool."
RESIDENTIAL. That which is situated on the premises of a
detached one- or two-family dwelling, or a one-family town-
house not more than three stories in height.
SPA, NONPORTABLE. See "Swimming pool."
SECTION AG1 04
SPAS AND HOT TUBS
AG104.1 Permanently installed spas and hot tubs. Perma-
nently installed spas and hot tubs shall be designed and con-
structed in compliance with ANSI/NSPI-3.
AG104.2 Portable spas and hot tubs. Portable spas and hot
tubs shall be designed and constructed in compliance with
ANSI/NSPI-6.
SECTION AG1 05
BARRIER REQUIREMENTS
AG105.1 Application. The provisions of this appendix shall
control the design of barriers for residential swimming pools,
spas and hot tubs. These design controls are intended to pro-
vide protection against potential drownings and near-drown-
ings by restricting access to swimming pools, spas and hot
tubs.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
829
APPENDIX G
AG105.2 Outdoor swimming pool. An outdoor swimming
pool, including an in-ground, above-ground or on-ground
pool, hot tub or spa, shall be surrounded by a barrier which
shall comply with the following:
1. The top of the barrier shall be at least 48 inches (1219
mm) above grade measured on the side of the barrier
which faces away from the swimming pool. The maxi-
mum vertical clearance between grade and the bottom
of the barrier shall be 2 inches (5 1 mm) measured on
the side of the barrier which faces away from the
swimming pool. Where the top of the pool structure is
above grade, such as an above-ground pool, the barrier
may be at ground level, such as the pool structure, or
mounted on top of the pool structure. Where the bar-
rier is mounted on top of the pool structure, the maxi-
mum vertical clearance between the top of the pool
structure and the bottom of the barrier shall be 4 inches
(102 mm).
2. Openings in the barrier shall not allow the passage of a
4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere.
3. Solid barriers which do not have openings, such as a
masonry or stone wall, shall not contain indentations
or protrusions, except for normal construction toler-
ances and tooled masonry joints.
4. Where the barrier is composed of horizontal and verti-
cal members, and the distance between the tops of the
horizontal members is less than 45 inches (1 143 mm),
the horizontal members shall be located on the swim-
ming pool side of the fence. Spacing between vertical
members shall not exceed l'/ 4 inches (44 mm) in
width. Where there are decorative cutouts within verti-
cal members, spacing within the cutouts shall not
exceed l 3 / 4 inches (44 mm) in width.
5. Where the barrier is composed of horizontal and verti-
cal members, and the distance between the tops of the
horizontal members is 45 inches (1143 mm) or more,
spacing between vertical members shall not exceed 4
inches (102 mm). Where there are decorative cutouts
within vertical members, spacing within the cutouts
shall not exceed l 3 / 4 inches (44 mm) in width.
6. Maximum mesh size for chain link fences shall be a
2'/ 4 -inch (57 mm) square, unless the fence has slats
fastened at the top or the bottom which reduce the
openings to not more than l 3 / 4 inches (44 mm).
7. Where the barrier is composed of diagonal members,
such as a lattice fence, the maximum opening formed
by the diagonal members shall not be more than l 3 / 4
inches (44 mm).
8. Access gates shall comply with the requirements of
Items 1 through 7, and shall be equipped to accommo-
date a locking device. Pedestrian access gates shall
open outward away from the pool, and shall be self-
closing and have a self-latching device. Gates, other
than pedestrian access gates, shall have a self-latching
device. Where the release mechanism of the self-latch-
ing device is located less than 54 inches (1372 mm)
from the bottom of the gate, the release mechanism
and openings shall comply with the following:
8.1. The release mechanism shall be located on the
pool side of the gate at least 3 inches (76 mm)
below the top of the gate; and
8.2. The gate and barrier shall have no opening
larger than 7 2 inch (12.7 mm) within 18
inches (457 mm) of the release mechanism.
9. Where a wall of a dwelling serves as part of the bar-
rier, one of the following conditions shall be met:
9.1. The pool shall be equipped with a powered
safety cover in compliance with ASTM F
1346;
9.2. Doors with direct access to the pool through
that wall shall be equipped with an alarm
which produces an audible warning when the
door and/or its screen, if present, are opened.
The alarm shall be listed and labeled in accor-
dance with UL 2017. The deactivation
switch(es) shall be located at least 54 inches
(1 372 mm) above the threshold of the door; or
9.3. Other means of protection, such as self-clos-
ing doors with self-latching devices, which
are approved by the governing body, shall be
acceptable as long as the degree of protection
afforded is not less than the protection
afforded by Item 9.1 or 9.2 described herein.
10. Where an above-ground pool structure is used as a bar-
rier or where the barrier is mounted on top of the pool
structure, and the means of access is a ladder or steps:
10.1. The ladder or steps shall be capable of being
secured, locked or removed to prevent access;
or
10.2. The ladder or steps shall be surrounded by a
barrier which meets the requirements of Items
1 through 9. When the ladder or steps are
secured, locked or removed, any opening cre-
ated shall not allow the passage of a 4-inch-
diameter (102 mm) sphere.
AG105.3 Indoor swimming pool. Walls surrounding an
indoor swimming pool shall comply with Item 9 of Section
AG105.2.
AG105.4 Prohibited locations. Barriers shall be located to
prohibit permanent structures, equipment or similar objects
from being used to climb them.
AG 105.5 Barrier exceptions. Spas or hot tubs with a safety
cover which comply with ASTM F 1346 shall be exempt
from the provisions of this appendix.
SECTION AG1 06
ENTRAPMENT PROTECTION FOR SWIMMING
POOL AND SPA SUCTION OUTLETS
AG 106.1 General. Suction outlets shall be designed and
installed in accordance with ANSI/APSP-7.
830
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX G
SECTION AG1 07
ABBREVIATIONS
AG107.1 General.
ANSI — American National Standards Institute
1 1 West 42nd Street
New York, NY 10036
APSP — Association of Pool and Spa Professionals
NSPI — National Spa and Pool Institute
2111 Eisenhower Avenue
Alexandria, V A 22314
ASCE — American Society of Civil Engineers
1 801 Alexander Bell Drive
Reston, VA 98411-0700
ASTM— ASTM International
100 Barr Harbor Drive
West Conshohocken, PA 19428
UL — Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.
333 Pfingsten Road
Northbrook, IL 60062-2096
SECTION AG1 08
REFERENCED STANDARDS
AG108.1 General.
ANSI/NSP
ANSI/NSPI-3— 99 Standard for Permanently Installed
Residential Spas AG104.1
ANSI/NSPI-4— 99 Standard for Above-ground/
On-ground Residential
Swimming Pools AG103.2
ANSI/NSPI-5— 03 Standard for Residential
In-ground Swimming Pools. . AG103.1
ANSI/NSPI-6— 99 Standard for Residential
Portable Spas AG104.2
ANSI/APSP
ANSI/APSP-7— 06 Standard for Suction Entrapment
Avoidance in Swimming Pools,
Wading Pools, Spas, Hot Tubs
and Catch Basins AG106.1
ASCE
ASCE/SEI-24— 05 Flood-resistant Design and
Construction AG103.3
ASTM
ASTM F 1346—91 Performance Specification
(2003) for Safety Covers and Labeling
Requirements for All Covers
for Swimming Pools Spas and
Hot Tubs AG105.2, AG105.5
UL
UL 20 1 7—2000 Standard for General-purpose
Signaling Devices and
Systems — with revisions
through June 2004 AG105.2
201 2 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE® 831
832 201 2 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX H
PATIO OflVFRQ
(Jfte provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.)
SECTION AH1 01
GENERAL
AH101.1 Scope. Patio covers shall conform to the require-
ments of Sections AH101 through AH105.
AH101.2 Permitted uses. Patio covers shall be permitted to
be detached from or attached to dwelling units. Patio covers
shall be used only for recreational, outdoor living purposes,
and not as carports, garages, storage rooms or habitable
rooms.
SECTION AH1 02
DEFINITION
AH102.1 General. The following word and term shall, for
the purposes of this appendix, have the meaning shown
herein.
PATIO COVER. A structure with open or glazed walls
which is used for recreational, outdoor living purposes asso-
ciated with a dwelling unit.
SECTION AH1 03
EXTERIOR WALLS AND OPENINGS
AH 103.1 Enclosure walls. Enclosure walls shall be permit-
ted to be of any configuration, provided the open or glazed
area of the longer wall and one additional wall is equal to at
least 65 percent of the area below a minimum of 6 feet, 8
inches (2032 mm) of each wall, measured from the floor.
Openings shall be permitted to be enclosed with the follow-
ing:
1 . Insect screening;
2. Approved translucent or transparent plastic not more
than 0.125 inch (3.2 mm) in thickness;
3. Glass conforming to the provisions of Section R308; or
4. Any combination of the foregoing.
AH103.2 Light, ventilation and emergency egress. Exte-
rior openings required for light and ventilation shall be per-
mitted to open into a patio structure conforming to Section
AH101, provided that the patio structure shall be unenclosed
if such openings are serving as emergency egress or rescue
openings from sleeping rooms. Where such exterior openings
serve as an exit from the dwelling unit, the patio structure,
unless unenclosed, shall be provided with exits conforming to
the provisions of Section R3 10.
SECTION AH1 04
HEIGHT
AH104.1 Height. Patio covers are limited to one-story struc-
tures not exceeding 12 feet (3657 mm) in height.
SECTION AH1 05
STRUCTURAL PROVISIONS
AH105.1 Design loads. Patio covers shall be designed and
constructed to sustain, within the stress limits of this code, all
dead loads plus a minimum vertical live load of 10 pounds
per square foot (0.48 kN/m 2 ), except that snow loads shall be
used where such snow loads exceed this minimum. Such cov-
ers shall be designed to resist the minimum wind loads set
forth in Section R30 1.2.1.
AH105.2 Footings. In areas with a frostline depth of zero as
specified in Table R301 .2(1), a patio cover shall be permitted
to be supported on a s\ab-on-grade without footings, pro-
vided the slab conforms to the provisions of Section R506, is
not less than 3.5 inches (89 mm) thick and the columns do not
support live and dead loads in excess of 750 pounds (3.34
kN) per column.
SECTION AH1 06
SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR ALUMINUM SCREEN
ENCLOSURES IN HURRICANE-PRONE REGIONS
AH106.I General. Screen enclosures in hurricane-prone
regions shall be in accordance with the provisions of this Sec-
tion.
AH106.1.1 Habitable spaces. Screen enclosures shall not
be considered habitable spaces.
AH106.1.2 Minimum ceiling height. Screen enclosures
shall have a ceiling height of not less than 7 feet (2134
mm).
AH106.2 Definition. The following word and term shall, for
the purposes of this appendix, have the meaning shown
herein.
SCREEN ENCLOSURE. A building or part thereof, in
whole or in part self-supporting, and having walls of insect
screening, and a roof of insect screening, plastic, aluminum
or similar lightweight material.
AH106.3 Screen enclosures. Screen enclosures shall com-
ply with Sections AH106.3.1 and AH106.3.2
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
833
APPENDIX H
AH106.3.1 Thickness. Actual wall thickness of extruded
aluminum members shall be not less than 0.040 inch (1.02
mm).
AH106.3.2 Density. Screen density shall be a maximum
of 20 threads per inch by 20 threads per inch mesh.
AH106.4 Design. The structural design of screen enclosures
shall comply with Sections AH106.4.1 through AH106.4.4.
AH106.4.1 Wind load. Structural members supporting
screen enclosures shall be designed to support the mini-
mum wind loads given in Tables AH106.4(1) and
AH 106.4(2). Where any value is less than 10 pounds per
square foot (psf) (0.479 kN/m 2 ) use 10 pounds per square
feet (0.479 kN/m 2 ).
A HI 06.4.2 Deflection limit. For members supporting
screen surfaces only, the total load deflection shall not
exceed 1/60. Screen surfaces shall be permitted to include
a maximum of 25-percent solid flexible finishes.
AH106.4.3 Importance factor. The wind factor for
screen enclosures shall be 0.77 in accordance with Section
6.5.5 of ASCE7.
AH106.4.4 Roof live load. The minimum roof live load
shall be 10 psf (0.479 kN/m 2 ).
AH 106.5 Footings. In areas with a frost line depth of zero, a
screen enclosure shall be permitted to be supported on a con-
crete slab-on-grade without footings, provided the slab con-
forms to the provisions of Section R506, is not less than 3'/ 2
inches (89 mm) thick and the columns do not support loads in
excess of 750 pounds (3.36 kN) per column.
TABLE AH1 06.4(2)
HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT FACTORS
MEAN
EXPOSURE
Roof Height (feet)
B
c
15
1
0.86
20
1
0.92
25
1
0.96
30
1
1.00
35
1.05
1.03
40
1.09
1.06
45
1.12
1.09
50
1.16
1.11
55
1.19
1.14
60
1.22
1.16
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
TABLE AH106.4(1)
DESIGN WIND PRESSURES FOR ALUMINUM SCREEN ENCLOSURE FRAMING WITH AN IMPORTANCE FACTOR OF 0.77=' bc
LOAD
CASE
WALL
Basic Wind Speed (mph)
100
110
120
130
140
150
Exposure Category Design Pressure (psf)
C
B
c
B
C
B
C
B
C
B
C
B
A d
Windward and leeward walls (flow thru) and windward
wall (nonflow thru) L/W = 0-1
12
8
14
10
17
12
19
14
23
16
26
18
A d
Windward and leeward walls (flow thru) and windward
wall (nonflow thru) L/W = 2
13
9
16
11
19
14
22
16
26
18
30
21
B e
Windward: Nongable roof
16
12
20
14
24
17
28
20
32
23
37
26
B e
Windward: Gable roof
22
16
27
19
32
23
38
27
44
31
50
36
ROOF
All*
Roof-screen
4
3
5
4
6
4
7
5
8
6
9
7
All'
Roof- so lid
12
9
15
11
18
13
21
15
24
17
28
20
For SI: 1 mile per hour = 0.44 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
a. Values have been reduced for 0.77 importance factor in accordance with Section AH106.4.3.
b. Minimum design pressure shall be 1 psf in accordance with Section AH106.4.1.
c. Loads are applicable to screen enclosures with a mean roof height of 30 feet or less. For screen enclosures of different heights, the pressures given shall be
adjusted by multiplying the table pressure by the adjustment factor given in Table AH106.4(2).
d. For Load Case A flow thru condition, the pressure given shall be applied simultaneously to both the upwind and downwind screen walls acting in the same
direction as the wind. The structure shall also be analyzed for wind coming from the opposite direction. For the nonflow thru condition, the screen enclosure
wall shall be analyzed for the load applied acting toward the interior of the enclosure.
e. For Load Case B, the table pressure multiplied by the projected frontal area of the screen enclosure is the total drag force, including drag on screen surfaces
parallel to the wind, which must be transmitted to the ground. Use Load Case A for members directly supporting the screen surface perpendicular to the wind.
Load Case B loads shall be applied only to structural members which carry wind loads from more than one surface.
f. The roof structure shall be analyzed for the pressure given occurring both upward and downward.
834
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX I
PRIVATE SEWAGE DISPOSAL
(The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.)
SECTION AH 01
GENERAL
AI101.1 Scope. Private sewage disposal systems
shall conform to the International Private Sewage
Disposal Code.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE® 835
836 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX J
EXISTING BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
(The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.)
SECTION AJ1 01
PURPOSE AND INTENT
AJ'101.1 General. The purpose of these provisions is to
encourage the continued use or reuse of legally existing
buildings and structures. These provisions are intended to
permit work in existing buildings that is consistent with the
purpose of this code. Compliance with these provisions shall
be deemed to meet the requirements of this code.
AJ101.2 Classification of work. For purposes of this appen-
dix, all work in existing buildings shall be classified into the
categories of repair, renovation, alteration and reconstruc-
tion. Specific requirements are established for each category
of work in these provisions.
AJ101.3 Multiple categories of work. Work of more than
one category may be part of a single work project. All related
work permitted within a 12-month period shall be considered
a single work project. Where a project includes one category
of work in one building area and another category of work in
a separate and unrelated area of the building, each project
area shall comply with the requirements of the respective cat-
egory of work. Where a project with more than one category
of work is performed in the same area or in related areas of
the building, the project shall comply with the requirements
of the more stringent category of work.
SECTION AJ1 02
COMPLIANCE
AJ102.1 General. Regardless of the category of work being
performed, the work shall not cause the structure to become
unsafe or adversely affect the performance of the building;
shall not cause an existing mechanical or plumbing system to
become unsafe, hazardous, insanitary or overloaded; and
unless expressly permitted by these provisions, shall not
make the building any less compliant with this code or to any
previously approved alternative arrangements than it was
before the work was undertaken.
AJ102.2 Requirements by category of work. Repairs shall
conform to the requirements of Section AJ301. Renovations
shall conform to the requirements of Section AJ401 . Altera-
tions shall conform to the requirements of Section AJ501 and
the requirements for renovations. Reconstructions shall con-
form to the requirements of Section AJ601 and the require-
ments for alterations and renovations.
AJ102.3 Smoke detectors. Regardless of the category of
work, smoke detectors shall be provided where required by
Section R314.3.1.
AJ102.4 Replacement windows. Regardless of the category
of work, when an existing window, including the sash and
glazed portion, is replaced, the replacement window shall
comply with the requirements of Chapter 1 1 .
AJ102.5 Flood hazard areas. Work performed in existing
buildings located in a flood hazard area as established by
Table R301.2(l) shall be subject to the provisions of Section
R105.3.1.1.
AJ102.6 Equivalent alternatives. These provisions are not
intended to prevent the use of any alternative material, alter-
native design or alternative method of construction not spe-
cifically prescribed herein, provided any alternative has been
deemed to be equivalent and its use authorized by the build-
ing official.
AJ102.7 Other alternatives. Where compliance with these
provisions or with this code as required by these provisions is
technically infeasible or would impose disproportionate costs
because of structural, construction or dimensional difficul-
ties, other alternatives may be accepted by the building offi-
cial. These alternatives may include materials, design
features and/or operational features.
AJ102.8 More restrictive requirements. Buildings or sys-
tems in compliance with the requirements of this code for
new construction shall not be required to comply with any
more restrictive requirement of these provisions.
AJ102.9 Features exceeding code requirements. Elements,
components and systems of existing buildings with features
that exceed the requirements of this code for new construc-
tion, and are not otherwise required as part of approved alter-
native arrangements or deemed by the building official to be
required to balance other building elements not complying
with this code for new construction, shall not be prevented by
these provisions from being modified as long as they remain
in compliance with the applicable requirements for new con-
struction.
SECTION AJ 103
PRELIMINARY MEETING
AJ103.1 General. If a building permit is required at the
request of the prospective permit applicant, the building offi-
cial or his designee shall meet with the prospective applicant
to discuss plans for any proposed work under these provi-
sions prior to the application for the permit. The purpose of
this preliminary meeting is for the building official to gain an
understanding of the prospective applicant's intentions for
the proposed work, and to determine, together with the pro-
spective applicant, the specific applicability of these provi-
sions.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
837
APPENDIX J
SECTION AJ104
EVALUATION OF AN EXISTING BUILDING
AJ104.1 General. The building official may require an exist-
ing building to be investigated and evaluated by a registered
design professional in the case of proposed reconstruction of
any portion of a building. The evaluation shall determine the
existence of any potential nonconformities to these provi-
sions, and shall provide a basis for determining the impact of
the proposed changes on the performance of the building. The
evaluation shall use the following sources of information, as
applicable:
1 . Available documentation of the existing building.
1.1. Field surveys.
1 .2. Tests (nondestructive and destructive).
1.3. Laboratory analysis.
Exception: Detached one- or two-family dwellings that
are not irregular buildings under Section R301.2.2.2.5 and
are not undergoing an extensive reconstruction shall not be
required to be evaluated.
SECTION AJ105
PERMIT
AJ105.1 Identification of work area. The work area shall be
clearly identified on all permits issued under these provisions.
SECTION AJ201
DEFINITIONS
AJ201.1 General. For purposes of this appendix, the terms
used are defined as follows.
ALTERATION. The reconfiguration of any space; the addi-
tion or elimination of any door or window; the reconfigura-
tion or extension of any system; or the installation of any
additional equipment.
CATEGORIES OF WORK. The nature and extent of con-
struction work undertaken in an existing building. The cate-
gories of work covered in this appendix, listed in increasing
order of stringency of requirements, are repair, renovation,
alteration and reconstruction.
DANGEROUS. Where the stresses in any member; the con-
dition of the building, or any of its components or elements or
attachments; or other condition that results in an overload
exceeding 150 percent of the stress allowed for the member
or material in this code.
EQUIPMENT OR FIXTURE. Any plumbing, heating,
electrical, ventilating, air-conditioning, refrigerating and fire
protection equipment; and elevators, dumb waiters, boilers,
pressure vessels, and other mechanical facilities or installa-
tions that are related to building services.
LOAD-BEARING ELEMENT. Any column, girder, beam,
joist, truss, rafter, wall, floor or roof sheathing that supports
any vertical load in addition to its own weight, and/or any lat-
eral load.
MATERIALS AND METHODS REQUIREMENTS.
Those requirements in this code that specify material stan-
dards; details of installation and connection; joints; penetra-
tions; and continuity of any element, component or system in
the building. The required quantity, fire resistance, flame
spread, acoustic or thermal performance, or other perfor-
mance attribute is specifically excluded from materials and
methods requirements.
RECONSTRUCTION. The reconfiguration of a space that
affects an exit, a renovation and/or alteration when the work
area is not permitted to be occupied because existing means-
of-egress and fire protection systems, or their equivalent, are
not in place or continuously maintained; and/or there are
extensive alterations as defined in Section AJ501.3.
REHABILITATION. Any repair, renovation, alteration or
reconstruction work undertaken in an existing building.
RENOVATION. The change, strengthening or addition of
load-bearing elements; and/or the refinishing, replacement,
bracing, strengthening, upgrading or extensive repair of exist-
ing materials, elements, components, equipment and/or fix-
tures. Renovation involves no reconfiguration of spaces.
Interior and exterior painting are not considered refinishing
for purposes of this definition, and are not renovation.
REPAIR. The patching, restoration and/or minor replace-
ment of materials, elements, components, equipment and/or
fixtures for the purposes of maintaining those materials, ele-
ments, components, equipment and/or fixtures in good or
sound condition.
WORK AREA. That portion of a building affected by any
renovation, alteration or reconstruction work as initially
intended by the owner and indicated as such in the permit.
Work area excludes other portions of the building where inci-
dental work entailed by the intended work must be per-
formed, and portions of the building where work not initially
intended by the owner is specifically required by these provi-
sions for a renovation, alteration or reconstruction.
SECTION AJ301
REPAIRS
AJ301.1 Materials. Except as otherwise required herein,
work shall be done using like materials or materials permitted
by this code for new construction.
AJ301.1.1 Hazardous materials. Hazardous materials no
longer permitted, such as asbestos and lead-based paint,
shall not be used.
AJ301.1.2 Plumbing materials and supplies. The fol-
lowing plumbing materials and supplies shall not be used:
1. All-purpose solvent cement, unless listed for the
specific application;
2. Flexible traps and tailpieces, unless listed for the
specific application; and
3. Solder having more than 0.2 percent lead in the
repair of potable water systems.
AJ301.2 Water closets. When any water closet is replaced
with a newly manufactured water closet, the replacement
water closet shall comply with the requirements of Section
P2903.2.
838
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX J
AJ301.3 Safety glazing. Replacement glazing in hazardous
locations shall comply with the safety glazing requirements
of Section R308.1.
AJ301.4 Electrical. Repair or replacement of existing elec-
trical wiring and equipment undergoing repair with like mate-
rial shall be permitted.
Exceptions:
1. Replacement of electrical receptacles shall comply
with the requirements of Chapters 34 through 43.
2. Plug fuses of the Edison-base type shall be used for
replacements only where there is no evidence of
overfusing or tampering in accordance with the
applicable requirements of Chapters 34 through 43.
3. For replacement of nongrounding-type receptacles
with grounding-type receptacles and for branch cir-
cuits that do not have an equipment grounding con-
ductor in the branch circuitry, the grounding
conductor of a grounding-type receptacle outlet
shall be permitted to be grounded to any accessible
point on the grounding electrode system, or to any
accessible point on the grounding electrode conduc-
tor, as allowed and described in Chapters 34 through
43.
SECTION AJ401
RENOVATIONS
AJ401.1 Materials and methods. The work shall comply
with the materials and methods requirements of this code.
AJ401.2 Door and window dimensions. Minor reductions
in the clear opening dimensions of replacement doors and
windows that result from the use of different materials shall
be allowed, whether or not they are permitted by this code.
AJ401.3 Interior finish. Wood paneling and textile wall
coverings used as an interior finish shall comply with the
flame spread requirements of Section R302.9.
AJ401.4 Structural. Unreinforced masonry buildings
located in Seismic Design Category D 2 or E shall have para-
pet bracing and wall anchors installed at the roofline when-
ever a reroofing permit is issued. Such parapet bracing and
wall anchors shall be of an approved design.
SECTION AJ501
ALTERATIONS
AJ501.1 Newly constructed elements. Newly constructed
elements, components and systems shall comply with the
requirements of this code.
Exceptions:
1 . Openable windows may be added without requiring
compliance with the light and ventilation require-
ments of Section R303.
2. Newly installed electrical equipment shall comply
with the requirements of Section AJ501.5.
AJ501.2 Nonconformities. The work shall not increase the
extent of noncompliance with the requirements of Section
AJ601, or create nonconformity to those requirements which
did not previously exist.
AJ501.3 Extensive alterations. When the total area of all the
work areas included in an alteration exceeds 50 percent of
the area of the dwelling unit, the work shall be considered a
reconstruction and shall comply with the requirements of
these provisions for reconstruction work.
Exception: Work areas in which the alteration work is
exclusively plumbing, mechanical or electrical shall not be
included in the computation of the total area of all work
areas.
AJ501.4 Structural. The minimum design loads for the
structure shall be the loads applicable at the time the building
was constructed, provided that no dangerous condition is cre-
ated. Structural elements that are uncovered during the course
of the alteration and that are found to be unsound or danger-
ous shall be made to comply with the applicable requirements
of this code.
AJ501.5 Electrical equipment and wiring.
AJ501.5.1 Materials and methods. Newly installed elec-
trical equipment and wiring relating to work done in any
work area shall comply with the materials and methods
requirements of Chapters 34 through 43.
Exception: Electrical equipment and wiring in newly
installed partitions and ceilings shall comply with all
the applicable requirements of Chapters 34 through 43.
AJ501 .5.2 Electrical service. Service to the dwelling unit
shall be a minimum of 100 ampere, three- wire capacity
and service equipment shall be dead front having no live
parts exposed that could allow accidental contact. Type
"S" fuses shall be installed when fused equipment is used.
Exception: Existing service of 60 ampere, three- wire
capacity, and feeders of 30 ampere or larger two- or
three-wire capacity shall be accepted if adequate for the
electrical load being served.
AJ501.5.3 Additional electrical requirements. When the
work area includes any of the following areas within a
dwelling unit, the requirements of Sections AJ501.5.3.1
through AJ501. 5.3.5 shall apply.
AJ501. 5.3.1 Enclosed areas. Enclosed areas other than
closets, kitchens, basements, garages, hallways, laun-
dry areas and bathrooms shall have a minimum of two
duplex receptacle outlets, or one duplex receptacle out-
let and one ceiling- or wall-type lighting outlet.
AJ501.5.3.2 Kitchen and laundry areas. Kitchen
areas shall have a minimum of two duplex receptacle
outlets. Laundry areas shall have a minimum of one
duplex receptacle outlet located near the laundry equip-
ment and installed on an independent circuit.
AJ501.5.3.3 Ground-fault circuit-interruption.
Ground-fault circuit-interruption shall be provided on
newly installed receptacle outlets if required by Chap-
ters 34 through 43.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
839
APPENDIX J
AJ501.5.3.4 Lighting outlets. At least one lighting
outlet shall be provided in every bathroom, hallway,
stairway, attached garage and detached garage with
electric power to illuminate outdoor entrances and
exits, and in utility rooms and basements where these
spaces are used for storage or contain equipment requir-
ing service.
AJ501.5.3.5 Clearance. Clearance for electrical ser-
vice equipment shall be provided in accordance with
Chapters 34 through 43.
AJ501.6 Ventilation. All reconfigured spaces intended for
occupancy and all spaces converted to habitable or occupi-
able space in any work area shall be provided with ventilation
in accordance with Section R303.
AJ501.7 Ceiling height. Habitable spaces created in existing
basements shall have ceiling heights of not less than 6 feet, 8
inches (2032 mm). Obstructions may project to within 6 feet,
4 inches (1930 mm) of the basement floor. Existing finished
ceiling heights in nonhabitable spaces in basements shall not
be reduced.
AJ501.8 Stairs.
AJ501.8.1 Stair width. Existing basement stairs and
handrails not otherwise being altered or modified shall be
permitted to maintain their current clear width at, above
and below existing handrails.
AJ501.8.2 Stair headroom. Headroom height on existing
basement stairs being altered or modified shall not be
reduced below the existing stairway finished headroom.
Existing basement stairs not otherwise being altered shall
be permitted to maintain the current finished headroom.
AJ501.8.3 Stair landing. Landings serving existing base-
ment stairs being altered or modified shall not be reduced
below the existing stairway landing depth and width.
Existing basement stairs not otherwise being altered shall
be permitted to maintain the current landing depth and
width.
ing guards are judged to be in danger of collapsing, shall
be provided with guards designed and installed in accor-
dance with Section R312.
AJ601.2 Wall and ceiling finish. The interior finish of walls
and ceilings in any work area shall comply with the require-
ments of Section R302.9. Existing interior finish materials
that do not comply with those requirements shall be removed
or shall be treated with an approved fire-retardant coating in
accordance with the manufacturer's instructions to secure
compliance with the requirements of this section.
AJ601.3 Separation walls. Where the work area is in an
attached dwelling unit, walls separating dwelling units that
are not continuous from the foundation to the underside of the
roof sheathing shall be constructed to provide a continuous
fire separation using construction materials consistent with
the existing wall or complying with the requirements for new
structures. Performance of work shall be required only on the
side of the wall of the dwelling unit that is part of the work
area.
AJ601.4 Ceiling height. Habitable spaces created in existing
basements shall be permitted to have ceiling heights of not
less than 6 feet, 8 inches (2032 mm). Obstructions may proj-
ect to within 6 feet, 4 inches (1930 mm) of the basement
floor. Existing finished ceiling heights in nonhabitable spaces
in basements shall not be reduced.
SECTION AJ601
RECONSTRUCTION
AJ601.1 Stairways, handrails and guards.
AJ601.1.1 Stairways. Stairways within the work area
shall be provided with illumination in accordance with
Section R303.6.
AJ601.1.2 Handrails. Every required exit stairway that
has four or more risers, is part of the means of egress for
any work area, and is not provided with at least one hand-
rail, or in which the existing handrails are judged to be in
danger of collapsing, shall be provided with handrails
designed and installed in accordance with Section R311
for the full length of the run of steps on at least one side.
AJ601.1.3 Guards. Every open portion of a stair, landing
or balcony that is more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the
floor or grade below, is part of the egress path for any
work area, and does not have guards, or in which the exist-
840
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX K
SOUND TRANSMISSION
(The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.)
SECTION AK1 01
GENERAL
AK101.1 General. Wall and floor-ceiling assemblies sepa-
rating dwelling units, including those separating adjacent
townhouse units, shall provide air-borne sound insulation for
walls, and both air-borne and impact sound insulation for
floor-ceiling assemblies.
SECTION AK102
AIR-BORNE SOUND
AK102.1 General. Air-borne sound insulation for wall and
floor-ceiling assemblies shall meet a sound transmission class
(STC) rating of 45 when tested in accordance with ASTM E
90. Penetrations or openings in construction assemblies for
piping; electrical devices; recessed cabinets; bathtubs; soffits;
or heating, ventilating or exhaust ducts shall be sealed, lined,
insulated or otherwise treated to maintain the required rat-
ings. Dwelling unit entrance doors, which share a common
space, shall be tight fitting to the frame and sill.
AK102.1.1 Masonry. The sound transmission class of
concrete masonry and clay masonry assemblies shall be
calculated in accordance with TMS 0302 or determined
through testing in accordance with ASTM E 90.
SECTION AK1 04
REFERENCED STANDARDS
ASTM
ASTM E 90—04
Test Method for Laboratory
Measurement of Air-borne Sound
Transmission Loss of Building
Partitions and Elements AK102
ASTM E 492 — 04 Specification for Laboratory
Measurement of Impact Sound
Transmission through Floor-ceiling
Assemblies Using the Tapping
Machine AK103
The Masonry Society
TMS 0302—07 Standard for Determining
the Sound Transmission Class Rating
for Masonry Walls AK102.1.1
SECTION AK1 03
STRUCTURAL-BORNE SOUND
AK103.1 General. Floor/ceiling assemblies between dwell-
ing units, or between a dwelling unit and a public or service
area within a structure, shall have an impact insulation class
(IIC) rating of not less than 45 when tested in accordance
with ASTM E 492.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
841
842 201 2 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX L
PPDyiT frcce
(The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in (he adopting ordinance.)
TOTAL VALUATION
$1 to $ 500
$501 to $2,000
$2,00.1 to $40,000
$40,001 to $100,000
$100,001 to $500,000
$500,001 to $1,000,000
$1,000,001 to $5,000,000
$5,000,001 and over
FEE
$24
$24 for the first $500; plus $3 for each additional $100 or fraction thereof, up
to and including $2,000
$69 for the first $2,000; plus $11 for each additional $1,000 or fraction
thereof, up to and including $40,000
$487 for the first $40,000; plus $9 for each additional $1,000 or fraction
thereof, up to and including $100,000
$1,027 for the first $100,000; plus $7 for each additional $1,000 or fraction
thereof, up to and including $500,000
$3,827 for the first $500,000; plus $5 for each additional $1,000 or fraction
thereof, up to and including $1,000,000
$6,327 for the first $1,000,000; plus $3 for each additional $1,000 or fraction
thereof, up to and including $5,000,000
$18,327 for the first $5,000,000; plus $1 for each additional $1 ,000 or fraction
thereof
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
843
844 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX M
a 6 %& B 3 8 in suF F% I %£ s'Q la En BE *-•; v-£ ^-w^* \-^ Hfi^ u f*& t: .1 ^-^ U
(The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.)
SECTION AM101
GENERAL
AM101.1 General. This appendix shall apply to a home day
care operated within a dwelling. It is to include buildings and
structures occupied by persons of any age who receive custo-
dial care for less than 24 hours by individuals other than par-
ents or guardians or relatives by blood, marriage, or adoption,
and in a place other than the home of the person cared for.
SECTION AM1Q2
DEFINITION
EXIT ACCESS. That portion of a means-of-egress system
that leads from any occupied point in a building or structure
to an exit.
SECTION AM 103
MEANS OF EGRESS
AM103.1 Exits required. If the occupant load of the resi-
dence is more than nine, including those who are residents,
during the time of operation of the day care, two exits are
required from the ground-level story. Two exits are required
from a home day care operated in a manufactured home
regardless of the occupant load. Exits shall comply with Sec-
tion R311.
AM103.1.1 Exit access prohibited. An exit access from
the area of day care operation shall not pass through bath-
rooms, bedrooms, closets, garages, fenced rear yards or
similar areas.
Exception: An exit may discharge into a fenced yard if
the gate or gates remain unlocked during day care
hours. The gates may be locked if there is an area of
refuge located within the fenced yard and more than 50
feet (15 240 mm) from the dwelling. The area of refuge
shall be large enough to allow 5 square feet (0.5 nr) per
occupant.
AMI 03. 1.2 Basements. If the basement of a dwelling is to
be used in the day care operation, two exits are required
from the basement regardless of the occupant load. One of
the exits may pass through the dwelling and the other must
lead directly to the exterior of the dwelling.
Exception: An emergency and escape window com-
plying with Section R310 and which does not conflict
with Section AM103.1.1 may be used as the second
means of egress from a basement.
AM 103. 1.3 Yards. If the yard is to be used as part of the
day care operation it shall be fenced.
AM 103.1.3.1 Type of fence and hardware. The fence
shall be of durable materials and be at least 6 feet (1529
mm) tall, completely enclosing the area used for the
day care operations. Each opening shall be a gate or
door equipped with a self-closing and self-latching
device to be installed at a minimum of 5 feet (1528
mm) above the ground.
Exception: The door of any dwelling which forms
part of the enclosure need not be equipped with self-
closing and self-latching devices.
AM103.1.3.2 Construction of fence. Openings in the
fence, wall or enclosure required by this section shall
have intermediate rails or an ornamental pattern that do
not allow a sphere 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter to
pass through. In addition, the following criteria must be
met:
1 . The maximum vertical clearance between grade
and the bottom of the fence, wall or enclosure
shall be 2 inches (5 1 mm).
2. Solid walls or enclosures that do not have open-
ings, such as masonry or stone walls, shall not
contain indentations or protrusions, except for
tooled masonry joints.
3. Maximum mesh size for chain link fences shall
be 1 7 4 inches (32 mm) square, unless the fence
has slats at the top or bottom which reduce the
opening to no more than l 3 / 4 inches (44 mm). The
wire shall not be less than 9 gage [0.148 inch (3.8
mm)].
AM103.1.3.3 Decks. Decks that are more than 12
inches (305 mm) above grade shall have a guard in
compliance with Section R3 1 2.
AM103.2 Width and height of an exit. The minimum width
of a required exit is 36 inches (914 mm) with a net clear
width of 32 inches (813 mm). The minimum height of a
required exit is 6 feet, 8 inches (2032 mm).
AM103.3 Type of lock and latches for exits. Regardless of
the occupant load served, exit doors shall be openable from
the inside without the use of a key or any special knowledge
or effort. When the occupant load is 10 or less, a night latch,
dead bolt or security chain may be used, provided such
devices are openable from the inside without the use of a key
or tool, and mounted at a height not to exceed 48 inches
(1219 mm) above the finished floor.
AM103.4 Landings. Landings for stairways and doors shall
comply with Section R311, except that landings shall be
required for the exterior side of a sliding door when a home
day care is being operated in a Group R-3 occupancy.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTSAL CODE®
845
APPENDIX M
SECTION AM1 04
SMOKE DETECTION
AM104.1 General. Smoke detectors shall be installed in
dwelling units used for home day care operations. Detectors
shall be installed in accordance with the approved manufac-
turer's instructions. If the current smoke detection system in
the dwelling is not in compliance with the currently adopted
code for smoke detection, it shall be upgraded to meet the
currently adopted code requirements and Section AM 103
before day care operations commence.
AM104.2 Power source. Required smoke detectors shall
receive their primary power from the building wiring when
that wiring is served from a commercial source and shall be
equipped with a battery backup. The detector shall emit a sig-
nal when the batteries are low. Wiring shall be permanent and
without a disconnecting switch other than those required for
overcurrent protection. Required smoke detectors shall be
interconnected so if one detector is activated, all detectors are
activated.
AM104.3 Location. A detector shall be located in each bed-
room and any room that is to be used as a sleeping room, and
centrally located in the corridor, hallway or area giving
access to each separate sleeping area. When the dwelling unit
has more than one story, and in dwellings with basements, a
detector shall be installed on each story and in the basement.
In dwelling units where a story or basement is split into two
or more levels, the smoke detector shall be installed on the
upper level, except that when the lower level contains a sleep-
ing area, a detector shall be installed on each level. When
sleeping rooms are on the upper level, the detector shall be
placed at the ceiling of the upper level in close proximity to
the stairway. In dwelling units where the ceiling height of a
room open to the hallway serving the bedrooms or sleeping
areas exceed that of the hallway by 24 inches (610 mm) or
more, smoke detectors shall be installed in the hallway and
the adjacent room. Detectors shall sound an alarm audible in
all sleeping areas of the dwelling unit in which they are
located.
846
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX N
VENTING METHODS
(This appendix is informative and is not part of the code. This appendix provides examples of various of venting methods.)
2 IN.
TUB
2 IN.
r
y
wc
.VI.
4 IN.
LAV
11/.
3 IN.
2 IN.
A. TYPICAL SINGLE-BATH ARRANGEMENT
B. TYPICAL POWDER ROOM
DOUBLE
LAV
y
i
LAV j 1V 4 irj .
TUB
SHOWER
2 IN.
C. MORE ELABORATE SINGLE-BATH
ARRANGEMENT
D. COMBINATION WET AND STACK VENTING
WITH STACK FITTING
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE N1
TYPICAL SINGLE-BATH WET-VENT ARRANGEMENTS
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
847
APPENDIX N
1 1 / 4 IN.
LAV
IV4IN
2 IN. 1 1 / 2 IN
\Jtub
T~7
1V 2 IN. 2 IN.
3 IN
LAV
TUB
WC
3 IN.
1V2IN.
WC
3 IN
TUB
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE N2
TYPICAL DOUBLE-BATH WET-VENT ARRANGEMENTS
848
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX N
IV4IN.
LAV
3 IN.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE N3
TYPICAL HORIZONTAL WET VENTING
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
849
APPENDIX N
WC
3 IN
WC
A. VERTICAL WET VENTING
LAV
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm.
B. HORIZONTAL WET VENTING
FIGURE N4
TYPICAL METHODS OF WET VENTING
850
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX N
^4 IN.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE N5
SINGLE STACK SYSTEM FOR A TWO-STORY DWELLING
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
851
APPENDIX N
2 1 / 2 IN
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
FIGURE N6
WASTE STACK VENTING
LAUNDRY
KITCHEN
GROUP
CLOTHES
WASHER
STANDPIPE
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
852
FIGURE N7
CIRCUIT VENT WITH ADDITIONAL NONCIRCUIT VENTED BRANCH
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
APPENDIX O
AUTOMATIC VEHICULAR GATES
(The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.)
SECTION A01 01
GENERAL
AO101.1 General. The provisions of this appendix shall con-
trol the design and construction of automatic vehicular gates
installed on the lot of a one- or two-family dwelling.
SECTION A01 02
DEFINITION
AO102.1 General. For the purposes of these requirements,
the terms used shall be defined as follows and as set forth in
Chapter 2.
VEHICULAR GATE. A gate that is intended for use at a
vehicular entrance or exit to the lot of a one- or two-family
dwelling, and that is not intended for use by pedestrian traf-
fic.
SECTION A01 03
AUTOMATIC VEHICULAR GATES
AO103.1 Vehicular gates intended for automation. Vehic-
ular gates intended for automation shall be designed, con-
structed and installed to comply with the requirements of
ASTM F 2200.
AO 103.2 Vehicular gate openers. Vehicular gate openers,
when provided, shall be listed in accordance with UL 325.
201 2 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE® 853
854 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX P
SITIMf5 AF WiSiTPP DIDlMf^ QVQTFR/I
iCa,ll^l^l %s0i SIM 1 fcaait rirSlMw ^ I Sjl I Ln.l¥l
(The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.)
SECTION AP1 01
GENERAL
AP101.1 Scope.
AP101.1.1 This appendix outlines two procedures for siz-
ing a water piping system (see Sections AP103.3 and
AP201.1). The design procedures are based on the mini-
mum static pressure available from the supply source, the
head charges in the system caused by friction and eleva-
tion, and the rates of flow necessary for operation of vari-
ous fixtures.
AP101.1.2 Because of the variable conditions encountered
in hydraulic design, it is impractical to specify definite and
detailed rules for sizing of the water piping system.
Accordingly, other sizing or design methods conforming
to good engineering practice standards are acceptable
alternatives to those presented herein.
SECTION AP1 02
INFORMATION REQUIRED
AP102.1 Preliminary. Obtain the necessary information
regarding the minimum daily static service pressure in the
area where the building is to be located. If the building supply
is to be metered, obtain information regarding friction loss
relative to the rate of flow for meters in the range of sizes
likely to be used. Friction loss data can be obtained from most
manufacturers of water meters.
AP102.2 Demand load.
AP102.2.1 Estimate the supply demand of the building
main and the principal branches and risers of the system
by totaling the corresponding demand from the applicable
part of Table AP103.3(3).
AP102.2.2 Estimate continuous supply demands, in gal-
lons per minute (gpm) (L/m), for lawn sprinklers, air con-
ditioners, etc., and add the sum to the total demand for
fixtures. The result is the estimated supply demand for the
building supply.
SECTION AP1 03
SELECTION OF PIPE SIZE
AP103.1 General. Decide from Table P2903.1 what is the
desirable minimum residual pressure that should be main-
tained at the highest fixture in the supply system. If the high-
est group of fixtures contains flushometer valves, the pressure
for the group should not be less than 15 pounds per square
inch (psi) (103.4 kPa) flowing. For flush tank supplies, the
available pressure should not be less than 8 psi (55.2 kPa)
flowing, except blowout action fixtures must not be less than
25 psi (172.4 kPa) flowing.
AP103.2 Pipe sizing.
AP103.2.1 Pipe sizes can be selected according to the fol-
lowing procedure or by other design methods conforming
to acceptable engineering practice and approved by the
administrative authority. The sizes selected must not be
less than the minimum required by this code.
AP103.2.2 Water pipe sizing procedures are based on a
system of pressure requirements and losses, the sum of
which must not exceed the minimum pressure available at
the supply source. These pressures are as follows:
1. Pressure required at fixture to produce required
flow. See Sections P2903.1 of this code and Section
604.5 of the International Plumbing Code.
2. Static pressure loss or gain (due to head) is com-
puted at 0.433 psi per foot (9.8 kPa/m) of elevation
change.
Example: Assume that the highest fixture supply
outlet is 20 feet (6096 mm) above or below the
supply source. This produces a static pressure
differential of 8.66 psi (59.8 kPa) loss [20 feet by
0.433 psi per foot (2096 mm by 9.8 kPa/m)].
3. Loss through water meter. The friction or pressure
loss can be obtained from meter manufacturers.
4. Loss through taps in water main.
5. Loss through special devices, such as filters, soften-
ers, backflow prevention devices and pressure regu-
lators. These values must be obtained from the
manufacturer.
6. Loss through valves and fittings. Losses for these
items are calculated by converting to the equivalent
length of piping and adding to the total pipe length.
7. Loss caused by pipe friction can be calculated when
the pipe size, pipe length and flow through the pipe
are known. With these three items, the friction loss
can be determined. For piping flow charts not
included, use manufacturers' tables and velocity rec-
ommendations.
Note: For all examples, the following metric conversions are
applicable.
1 cubic foot per minute = 0.4719 L/s.
1 square foot = 0.0929 m 2 .
1 degree = 0.0175 rad.
1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
1 inch = 25.4 mm.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
855
APPENDIX P
1 foot= 304.8 mm.
1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m.
AP103.3 Segmented loss method. The size of water service
mains, branch mains and risers by the segmented loss
method, must be determined according to water supply
demand [gpm (L/m)], available water pressure [psi (kPa)] and
friction loss caused by the water meter and developed length
of pipe [feet (m)], including the equivalent length of fittings.
This design procedure is based on the following parameters:
1 . The calculated friction loss through each length of pipe.
2. A system of pressure losses, the sum of which must not
exceed the minimum pressure available at the street
main or other source of supply.
3. Pipe sizing based on estimated peak demand, total pres-
sure losses caused by difference in elevation, equip-
ment, developed length and pressure required at the
most remote fixture; loss through taps in water main;
losses through fittings, filters, backflow prevention
devices, valves and pipe friction.
Because of the variable conditions encountered in hydrau-
lic design, it is impractical to specify definite and detailed
rules for the sizing of the water piping system. Current sizing
methods do not address the differences in the probability of
use and flow characteristics of fixtures between types of
occupancies. Creating an exact model of predicting the
demand for a building is impossible and final studies assess-
ing the impact of water conservation on demand are not yet
complete. The following steps are necessary for the seg-
mented loss method.
1 . Preliminary. Obtain the necessary information regard-
ing the minimum daily static service pressure in the
area where the building is to be located. If the building
supply is to be metered, obtain information regarding
friction loss relative to the rate of flow for meters in the
range of sizes to be used. Friction loss data can be
obtained from manufacturers of water meters. Enough
pressure must be available to overcome all system
losses caused by friction and elevation so that plumbing
fixtures operate properly. Section 604.6 of the Interna-
tional Plumbing Code requires that the water distribu-
tion system be designed for the minimum pressure
available taking into consideration pressure fluctua-
tions. The lowest pressure must be selected to guaran-
tee a continuous, adequate supply of water. The lowest
pressure in the public main usually occurs in the sum-
mer because of lawn sprinkling and supplying water for
air-conditioning cooling towers. Future demands
placed on the public main as a result of large growth or
expansion should also be considered. The available
pressure will decrease as additional loads are placed on
the public system.
2. Demand load. Estimate the supply demand of the
building main and the principal branches and risers of
the system by totaling the corresponding demand from
the applicable part of Table AP103.3(3). When estimat-
ing peak demand, sizing methods typically use water
supply fixture units (w.s.f.u.) [see Table AP103.3(2)].
This numerical factor measures the load-producing
effect of a single plumbing fixture of a given kind. The
use of fixture units can be applied to a single basic
probability curve (or table), found in the various sizing
methods [see Table AP103.3(3)]. The fixture units are
then converted into a gpm (L/m) flow rate for estimat-
ing demand.
2.1. Estimate continuous supply demand in gpm
(L/m) for lawn sprinklers, air conditioners,
etc., and add the sum to the total demand for
fixtures. The result is the estimated supply
demand for the building supply. Fixture units
cannot be applied to constant-use fixtures,
such as hose bibbs, lawn sprinklers and air
conditioners. These types of fixtures must be
assigned the gpm (L/m) value.
3. Selection of pipe size. This water pipe sizing procedure
is based on a system of pressure requirements and
losses, the sum of which must not exceed the minimum
pressure available at the supply source. These pressures
are as follows:
3.1. Pressure required at the fixture to produce
required flow. See Section P2903.1 of this code
and Section 604.5 of the International Plumb-
ing Code.
3.2. Static pressure loss or gain (because of head) is
computed at 0.433 psi per foot (9.8 kPa/m) of
elevation change.
3.3. Loss through a water meter. The friction or
pressure loss can be obtained from the manu-
facturer.
3.4. Loss through taps in water main [see Table
API 03. 3(4)].
3.5. Loss through special devices, such as filters,
softeners, backflow prevention devices and
pressure regulators. These values must be
obtained from the manufacturers.
3.6. Loss through valves and fittings [see Tables
AP103.3(5) and AP103.3(6)]. Losses for these
items are calculated by converting to the equiv-
alent length of piping and adding to the total
pipe length.
3.7. Loss caused by pipe friction can be calculated
when the pipe size, pipe length and flow
through the pipe are known. With these three
items, the friction loss can be determined using
Figures AP103.3(2) through AP103.3(7). When
using charts, use pipe inside diameters. For pip-
ing flow charts not included, use manufactur-
ers' tables and velocity recommendations.
Before attempting to size any water supply sys-
tem, it is necessary to gather preliminary infor-
mation which includes available pressure,
piping material, select design velocity, eleva-
tion differences and developed length to the
most remote fixture. The water supply system is
divided into sections at major changes in eleva-
856
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX P
tion or where branches lead to fixture groups.
The peak demand must be determined in each
part of the hot and cold water supply system
which includes the corresponding w.s.f.u. and
conversion to gpm (L/m) flow rate to be
expected through each section. Sizing methods
require determination of the "most hydrauli-
cally remote" fixture to compute the pressure
loss caused by pipe and fittings. The hydrauli-
cally remote fixture represents the most down-
stream fixture along the circuit of piping
requiring the most available pressure to operate
properly. Consideration must be given to all
pressure demands and losses, such as friction
caused by pipe, fittings and equipment; eleva-
tion; and the residual pressure required by
Table P2903.1. The two most common and fre-
quent complaints about water supply system
operation are lack of adequate pressure and
noise.
Problem: What size Type L copper water pipe, service and
distribution will be required to serve a two-story factory
building having on each floor, back-to-back, two toilet rooms
each equipped with hot and cold water? The highest fixture is
21 feet above the street main, which is tapped with a 2-inch
corporation cock at which point the minimum pressure is 55
psi. In the building basement, a 2-inch meter with a maxi-
mum pressure drop of 11 psi and 3-inch reduced pressure
principle backflow preventer with a maximum pressure drop
of 9 psi are to be installed. The system is shown in Figure
AP103.3(1). To be determined are the pipe sizes for the ser-
vice main, and the cold and hot water distribution pipes.
Solution: A tabular arrangement such as shown in Table
AP103.3(1) should first be constructed. The steps to be
followed are indicated by the tabular arrangement itself as
they are in sequence, Columns 1 through 10 and Lines A
through L.
Stepl
Columns 1 and 2: Divide the system into sections break-
ing at major changes in elevation or where branches lead
to fixture groups. After Point B [see Figure AP103.3(1)],
separate consideration will be given to the hot and cold
water piping. Enter the sections to be considered in the
service and cold water piping in Column 1 of the tabular
arrangement. Column 1 of Table AP103.3(1) provides a
line-by-line, recommended tabular arrangement for use in
solving pipe sizing.
The objective in designing the water supply system is
to ensure an adequate water supply and pressure to all fix-
tures and equipment. Column 2 provides the psi (kPa) to
be considered separately from the minimum pressure
available at the main. Losses to take into consideration are
the following: the differences in elevations between the
water supply source and the highest water supply outlet;
meter pressure losses; the tap in main loss; special fixture
devices, such as water softeners and backflow prevention
devices; and the pressure required at the most remote fix-
ture outlet.
The difference in elevation can result in an increase or
decrease in available pressure at the main. Where the
water supply outlet is located above the source, this results
in a loss in the available pressure and is subtracted from
the pressure at the water source. Where the highest water
supply outlet is located below the water supply source,
there will be an increase in pressure that is added to the
available pressure of the water source.
Column 3: According to Table AP103.3(3), determine the
gpm (L/m) of flow to be expected in each section of the
system. These flows range from 28.6 to 108 gpm. Load
values for fixtures must be determined as w.s.f.u. and then
converted to a gpm rating to determine peak demand.
When calculating peak demands, the w.s.f.u. are added
and then converted to the gpm rating. For continuous flow
fixtures, such as hose bibbs and lawn sprinkler systems,
add the gpm demand to the intermittent demand of fix-
tures. For example, a total of 120 w.s.f.u. is converted to a
demand of 48 gpm. Two hose bibbs x 5 gpm demand =10
gpm. Total gpm rating = 48.0 gpm + 10 gpm = 58.0 gpm
demand.
Step 2
Line A: Enter the minimum pressure available at the main
source of supply in Column 2. This is 55 psi (379.2 kPa).
The local water authorities generally keep records of pres-
sures at different times of the day and year. The available
pressure can also be checked from nearby buildings or
from fire department hydrant checks.
Line B: Determine from Table P2903.1 the highest pres-
sure required for the fixtures on the system, which is 15
psi (103.4 kPa), to operate a flushometer valve. The most
remote fixture outlet is necessary to compute the pressure
loss caused by pipe and fittings, and represents the most
downstream fixture along the circuit of piping requiring
the available pressure to operate properly as indicated by
Table P2903.1.
Line C: Determine the pressure loss for the meter size
given or assumed. The total water flow from the main
through the service as determined in Step 1 will serve to
aid in the meter selected. There are three common types of
water meters; the pressure losses are determined by the
American Water Works Association Standards for dis-
placement type, compound type and turbine type. The
maximum pressure loss of such devices takes into consid-
eration the meter size, safe operating capacity [gpm (L/m)]
and maximum rates for continuous operations [gpm (L/
m)]. Typically, equipment imparts greater pressure losses
than piping.
Line D: Select from Table AP103.3(4) and enter the pres-
sure loss for the tap size given or assumed. The loss of
pressure through taps and tees in psi (kPa) is based on the
total gpm (L/m) flow rate and size of the tap.
Line E: Determine the difference in elevation between the
main and source of supply and the highest fixture on the
system. Multiply this figure, expressed in feet (mm), by
0.43 psi. Enter the resulting psi (kPa) loss on Line E. The
difference in elevation between the water supply source
and the highest water supply outlet has a significant
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
857
APPENDIX P
impact on the sizing of the water supply system. The dif-
ference in elevation usually results in a loss in the avail-
able pressure because the water supply outlet is generally
located above the water supply source. The loss is caused
by the pressure required to lift the water to the outlet. The
pressure loss is subtracted from the pressure at the water
source. Where the highest water supply outlet is located
below the water source, there will be an increase in pres-
sure which is added to the available pressure of the water
source.
Lines F, G and H: The pressure losses through filters,
backflow prevention devices or other special fixtures must
be obtained from the manufacturer or estimated and
entered on these lines. Equipment, such as backflow pre-
vention devices, check valves, water softeners, instanta-
neous, or tankless water heaters, filters and strainers, can
impart a much greater pressure loss than the piping. The
pressure losses can range from 8 to 30 psi.
Step 3
Line I: The sum of the pressure requirements and losses
that affect the overall system (Lines B through H) is
entered on this line. Summarizing the steps, all of the sys-
tem losses are subtracted from the minimum water pres-
sure. The remainder is the pressure available for friction,
defined as the energy available to push the water through
the pipes to each fixture. This force can be used as an aver-
age pressure loss, as long as the pressure available for fric-
tion is not exceeded. Saving a certain amount for available
water supply pressures as an area incurs growth, or
because of the aging of the pipe or equipment added to the
system is recommended.
Step 4
Line J: Subtract Line I from Line A. This gives the pres-
sure that remains available from overcoming friction
losses in the system. This figure is a guide to the pipe size
that is chosen for each section, incorporating the total fric-
tion losses to the most remote outlet (measured length is
called developed length).
Exception: When the main is above the highest fixture,
the resulting psi (kPa) must be considered a pressure
gain (static head gain) and omitted from the sums of
Lines B through H and added to Line J.
The maximum friction head loss that can be toler-
ated in the system during peak demand is the difference
between the static pressure at the highest and most
remote outlet at no-flow conditions and the minimum
flow pressure required at that outlet. If the losses are
within the required limits, every run of pipe will also be
within the required friction head loss. Static pressure
loss is at the most remote outlet in feet x 0.433 = loss in
psi caused by elevation differences.
Step 5
Column 4: Enter the length of each section from the main
to the most remote outlet (at Point E). Divide the water
supply system into sections breaking at major changes in
elevation or where branches lead to fixture groups.
Step 6
Column 5: When selecting a trial pipe size, the length
from the water service or meter to the most remote fixture
outlet must be measured to determine the developed
length. However, in systems having a flushometer valve or |
temperature-controlled shower at the topmost floors, the
developed length would be from the water meter to the
most remote flushometer valve on the system. A rule of |
thumb is that size will become progressively smaller as the
system extends farther from the main source of supply.
Trial pipe size may be arrived at by the following formula:
Line J: (Pressure available to overcome pipe friction) x
100/ equivalent length of run total developed length to
most remote fixture x percentage factor of 1.5 (Note: a
percentage factor is used only as an estimate for friction
losses imposed for fittings for initial trial pipe size) = psi
(average pressure drop per 100 feet of pipe).
For trial pipe size, see Figure AP103.3(3) (Type L cop-
per) based on 2.77 psi and 108 gpm = 2 1 /, inches. To
determine the equivalent length of run to the most remote
outlet, the developed length is determined and added to the
friction losses for fittings and valves. The developed
lengths of the designated pipe sections are as follows:
A-B 54 feet
B-C
CD
D-E
8 feet
13 feet
150 feet
Total developed length = 225 feet
The equivalent length of the friction loss in fittings and
valves must be added to the developed length (most
remote outlet). Where the size of fittings and valves is not
known, the added friction loss should be approximated. A
general rule that has been used is to add 50 percent of the
developed length to allow for fittings and valves. For
example, the equivalent length of run equals the developed
length of run (225 feet x 1.5 = 338 feet). The total equiva-
lent length of run for determining a trial pipe size is 338
feet.
Example: 9.36 (pressure available to overcome pipe
friction) x 100/338 (equivalent length of run = 225 x
1.5) = 2.77 psi (average pressure drop per 100 feet of
pipe).
Step 7
Column 6: Select from Table AP103.3(6) the equivalent
lengths for the trial pipe size of fittings and valves on each
pipe section. Enter the sum for each section in Column 6.
(The number of fittings to be used in this example must be
an estimate). The equivalent length of piping is the devel-
oped length plus the equivalent lengths of pipe corre-
sponding to the friction head losses for fittings and valves.
Where the size of fittings and valves is not known, the
added friction head losses must be approximated. An esti-
mate for this example is found in Table AP. 1 .
858
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX P
StepS
Column 7: Add the figures from Columns 4 and 6, and
enter in Column 7. Express the sum in hundreds of feet.
Step 9
Column 8: Select from Figure AP103.3(3) the friction
loss per 100 feet of pipe for the gpm flow in a section
(Column 3) and trial pipe size (Column 5). Maximum fric-
tion head loss per 100 feet is determined on the basis of
the total pressure available for friction head loss and the
longest equivalent length of run. The selection is based on
the gpm demand, uniform friction head loss and maximum
design velocity. Where the size indicated by the hydraulic
table indicates a velocity in excess of the selected velocity,
a size must be selected which produces the required veloc-
ity.
Step 10
Column 9: Multiply the figures in Columns 7 and 8 for
each section and enter in Column 9.
Total friction loss is determined by multiplying the fric-
tion loss per 100 feet for each pipe section in the total
developed length by the pressure loss in fittings expressed
as equivalent length in feet (mm). Note: Section C-F
should be considered in the total pipe friction losses only
if greater loss occurs in Section C-F than in pipe Section
D-E. Section C-F is not considered in the total developed
length. Total friction loss in equivalent length is deter-
mined in Table AP.2.
Step 1 1
Line K: Enter the sum of the values in Column 9. The
value is the total friction loss in equivalent length for each
designated pipe section.
Step 12
Line L: Subtract Line J from Line K and enter in Column
10.
The result should always be a positive or plus figure. If
it is not, repeat the operation using Columns 5, 6, 8 and 9
until a balance or near balance is obtained. If the differ-
ence between Lines J and K is a high positive number, it is
an indication that the pipe sizes are too large and should be
reduced, thus saving materials. In such a case, the opera-
tions using Columns 5, 6, 8 and 9 should be repeated.
The total friction losses are determined and subtracted
from the pressure available to overcome pipe friction for
the trial pipe size. This number is critical because it pro-
vides a guide to whether the pipe size selected is too large
and the process should be repeated to obtain an economi-
cally designed system.
Answer: The final figures entered in Column 5 become the
design pipe size for the respective sections. Repeating this
operation a second time using the same sketch but consider-
ing the demand for hot water, it is possible to size the hot
water distribution piping. This has been worked up as a part
of the overall problem in the tabular arrangement used for
sizing the service and water distribution piping. Note that
consideration must be given to the pressure losses from the
street main to the water heater (Section A-B) in determining
the hot water pipe sizes.
TABLE AP.1
COLD WATER PIPE
SECTION
FITTINGS/VALVES
PRESSURE LOSS
EXPRESSED AS
EQUIVALENT LENGTH
OF TUBE (feet)
HOT WATER PIPE
SECTION
FITTINGS/VALVES
PRESSURE LOSS
EXPRESSED AS
EQUIVALENT OF TUBE
(feet)
A-B
3 - 2'/ 2 " Gate valves
3
A-B
3 - 27 2 " Gate valves
3
1 - 2'/ 2 " Side branch tee
12
—
1 - 2'/ 2 " Side branch tee
12
B-C
l-2'/ 2 " Straight run tee
0.5
B-C
1 - 2" Straight run tee
7
—
—
—
1 - 2" 90-degree ell
0.5
C-F
1 - 2 7," Side branch tee
12
C-F
1 - 1 7 2 " Side branch tee
7
CD
l-27 2 " 90-degree ell
7
CD
1 - 7 2 " 90-degree ell
4
D-E
1 - 2'/ 2 " Side branch tee
12
D-E
1 — 1 '//' Side branch tee
7
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 degree = 0.01 745 rad.
TABLE AP.2
PIPE SECTIONS
FRICTION LOSS EQUIVALENT LENGTH (feet)
Cold Water
Hot Water
A-B
0.69x3.2 = 2.21
0.69x3.2 = 2.21
B-C
0.085x3.1=0.26
0.16 x 1.4 = 0.22
C-D
0.20x1.9 = 0.38
0.17x3.2 = 0.54
D-E
1.62 x 1.9 = 3.08
1.57x3.2 = 5.02
Total pipe friction losses (Line K)
5.93
7.99
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
859
APPENDIX P
A
O —
MAIN
HOT WATER
COLD WATER
M = METER
BFP = BACKFLOW PREVENTER
f
= 90 DEGREE ELBOW
fH = "T"
N = VALVE
FLOOR 2
288 fu, 108 gpm-
i
132 fu,
77 gpm
FLOOR 1
D
264 fu, —
104.5 gpm
D
-MO — WOW \
Ur
M BFP
54 FT.
150 FT
lo-
co
- B'
-132 fu, 77 gpm
c ;.: «^
12 fu, 28.6 gpm
24 fu, 38 gpm
VWER HEATER
~^m
F'
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m.
FIGURE AP103.3(1)
EXAMPLE— SIZING
860
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX P
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2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
861
APPENDIX P
TABLE AP1 03.3(2)
LOAD VALUES ASSIGNED TO FIXTURES 3
FIXTURE
OCCUPANCY
TYPE OF SUPPLY
CONTROL
LOAD VALUES, IN WATER SUPPLY FIXTURE UNITS (w.s.f.u.)
Cold
Hot
Total
Bathroom group
Private
Flush tank
2.7
1.5
3.6
Bathroom group
Private
Flushometer valve
6.0
3.0
8.0
Bathtub
Private
Faucet
1.0
1.0
1.4
Bathtub
Public
Faucet
3.0
3.0
4.0
Bidet
Private
Faucet
1.5
1.5
2.0
Combination fixture
Private
Faucet
2.25
2.25
3.0
Dishwashing machine
Private
Automatic
—
1.4
1.4
Drinking fountain
Offices, etc.
3 I" valve
0.25
—
0.25
Kitchen sink
Private
Faucet
1.0
1.0
1.4
Kitchen sink
Hotel, restaurant
Faucet
3.0
3.0
4.0
Laundry trays (1 to 3)
Private
Faucet
1.0
1.0
1.4
Lavatory
Private
Faucet
0.5
0.5
0.7
Lavatory
Public
Faucet
1.5
1.5
2.0
Service sink
Offices, etc.
Faucet
2.25
2.25
3.0
Shower head
Public
Mixing valve
3.0
3.0
4.0
Shower head
Private
Mixing valve
1.0
1.0
1.4
Urinal
Public
1" flushometer valve
10.0
—
10.0
Urinal
Public
V 4 " flushometer valve
5.0
—
5.0
Urinal
Public
Flush tank
3.0
—
3.0
Washing machine (8 lb)
Private
Automatic
1.0
1.0
1.4
Washing machine (8 lb)
Public
Automatic
2.25
2.25
3.0
Washing machine (15 lb)
Public
Automatic
3.0
3.0
4.0
Water closet
Private
Flushometer valve
6.0
—
6.0
Water closet
Private
Flush tank
2.2
—
2.2
Water closet
Public
Flushometer valve
10.0
—
10.0
Water closet
Public
Flush tank
5.0
—
5.0
Water closet
Public or private
Flushometer tank
2.0
—
2.0
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg.
a. For fixtures not listed, loads should be assumed by comparing the fixture to one listed using water in similar quantities and at similar rates. The assigned loads
for fixtures with both hot and cold water supplies are given for separate hot and cold water loads, and for total load. The separate hot and cold water loads
being three-fourths of the total load for the fixture in each case.
862
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX P
TABLE AP1 03.3(3)
TABLE FOR ESTIMATING DEMAND
SUPPLY SYSTEMS PREDOMINANTLY FOR FLUSH TANKS
SUPPLY SYSTEMS PREDOMINANTLY FOR FLUSHOMETERS
Load
Demand
Load
Demand
(w.s.f.u.)
(gpm
(cfm)
(w.s.f.u.)
(gpm)
(cfm)
1
3.0
0.04104
—
—
—
2
5.0
0.0684
—
—
—
3
6.5
0.86892
—
—
—
4
8.0
1.06944
—
—
—
5
9.4
1.256592
5
15.0
2.0052
6
10.7
1.430376
6
17.4
2.326032
7
11.8
1.577424
7
19.8
2.646364
8
12.8
1.711104
8
22.2
2.967696
9
13.7
1.831416
9
24.6
3.288528
10
14.6
1.951728
10
27.0
3.60936
11
15.4
2.058672
11
27.8
3.716304
12
16.0
2.13888
12
28.6
3.823248
13
16.5
2.20572
13
29.4
3.930192
14
17.0
2.27256
14
30.2
4.037136
15
17.5
2.3394
15
31.0
4.14408
16
18.0
2.90624
16
31.8
4.241024
17
18.4
2.459712
17
32.6
4.357968
18
18.8
2.513184
18
33.4
4.464912
19
19.2
2.566656
19
34.2
4.571856
20
19.6
2.620128
20
35.0
4.6788
25
21.5
2.87412
25
38.0
5.07984
30
23.3
3.114744
30
42.0
5.61356
35
24.9
3.328632
35
44.0
5.88192
40
26.3
3.515784
40
46.0
6.14928
45
27.7
3.702936
45
48.0
6.41664
50
29.1
3.890088
50
50.0
6.684
60
32.0
4.27776
60
54.0
7.21872
70
35.0
4.6788
70
58.0
7.75344
80
38.0
5.07984
80
61.2
8.181216
90
41.0
5.48088
90
64.3
8.595624
100
43.5
5.81508
100
67.5
9.0234
120
48.0
6.41664
120
73.0
9.75864
140
52.5
7.0182
140
77.0
10.29336
160
57.0
7.61976
160
81.0
10.82808
180
61.0
8.15448
180
85.5
11.42964
200
65.0
8.6892
200
90.0
12.0312
225
70.0
9.3576
225
95.5
12.76644
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
863
APPENDIX P
TABLE AP1 03.3(3)— continued
TABLE FOR ESTIMATING DEMAND
SUPPLY SYSTEMS PREDOMINANTLY FOR FLUSH TANKS
SUPPLY SYSTEMS PREDOMINANTLY FOR FLUSHOMETERS
Load
Demand
Load
Demand
(w.s.f.u.)
(gpm)
(cfm)
(w.s.f.u.)
(gpm)
(cfm)
250
75.0
10.026
250
101.0
13.50168
275
80.0
10.6944
275
104.5
13.96956
300
85.0
11.3628
300
108.0
14.43744
400
105.0
14.0364
400
127.0
16.97736
500
124.0
16.57632
500
143.0
19.11624
750
170.0
22.7256
750
177.0
23.66136
1,000
208.0
27.80544
1,000
208.0
27.80544
1,250
239.0
31.94952
1,250
239.0
31.94952
1,500
269.0
35.95992
1,500
269.0
35.95992
1,750
297.0
39.70296
1,750
297.0
39.70296
2,000
325.0
43.446
2,000
325.0
43.446
2,500
380.0
50.7984
2,500
380.0
50.7984
3,000
433.0
57.88344
3,000
433.0
57.88344
4,000
535.0
70.182
4,000
525.0
70.182
5,000
593.0
79.27224
5,000
593.0
79.27224
For SI: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m, I cubic foot per minute = 0.00047 1 rrrVs.
TABLE AP1 03.3(4)
LOSS OF PRESSURE THROUGH TAPS AND TEES IN POUNDS PER SQUARE INCH (psi)
SIZE OF TAP OR TEE (Inches)
GALLONS PER MINUTE
%
%
1
1V 4
1V 2
2
3
10
1.35
0.64
0.18
0.08
—
—
—
20
5.38
2.54
0.77
0.31
0.14
—
—
30
12.10
5.72
1.62
0.69
0.33
0.10
—
40
—
10.20
3.07
1.23
0.58
0.18
—
50
—
15.90
4.49
1.92
0.91
0.28
—
60
—
—
6.46
2.76
1.31
0.40
—
70
—
—
8.79
3.76
1.78
0.55
0.10
80
—
—
11.50
4.90
2.32
0.72
0.13
90
—
—
14.50
6.21
2.94
0.91
0.16
100
—
—
17.94
7.67
3.63
1.12
0.21
120
—
—
25.80
11.00
5.23
1.61
0.30
140
—
—
35.20
15.00
7.12
2.20
0.41
150
—
_
—
17.20
8.16
2.52
0.47
160
—
—
—
19.60
9.30
2.92
0.54
180
—
—
—
24.80
11.80
3.62
0.68
200
—
—
—
30.70
14.50
4.48
0.84
225
—
—
—
38.80
18.40
5.60
1.06
250
—
—
—
47.90
22.70
7.00
1.31
275
—
—
—
—
27.40
7.70
1.59
300
—
—
—
—
32.60
10.10
1.88
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m.
864
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX P
TABLE AP1 03.3(5)
ALLOWANCE IN EQUIVALENT LENGTHS OF PIPE FOR FRICTION LOSS IN VALVES AND THREADED FITTINGS (feet)
FITTING OR VALVE
PIPE SIZE (inches)
X
'4
1
1V 4
IV,
2
2V 2
3
45-degree elbow
1.2
1.5
1.8
2.4
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
90-degree elbow
2.0
2.5
3.0
4.0
5.0
7.0
8.0
10.0
Tee, run
0.6
0.8
0.9
1.2
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
Tee, branch
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
10.0
12.0
15.0
Gate valve
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.8
1.0
1.3
1.6
2.0
Balancing valve
0.8
1.1
1.5
1.9
2.2
3.0
3.7
4.5
Plug-type cock
0.8
1.1
1.5
1.9
2.2
3.0
3.7
4.5
Check valve, swing
5.6
8.4
11.2
14.0
16.8
22.4
28.0
33.6
Globe valve
15.0
20.0
25.0
35.0
45.0
55.0
65.0
80.0
Angle valve
8.0
12.0
15.0
18.0
22.0
28.0
34.0
40.0
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot. = 304.8 mm, 1 degree = 0.0175 rad.
TABLE AP1 03.3(6)
PRESSURE LOSS IN FITTINGS AND VALVES EXPRESSED AS EQUIVALENT LENGTH OF TUBE a (feet)
NOMINALOR
STANDARD
SIZE (inches)
FITTINGS
Coupling
VALVES
Standard Ell
90-degree Tee
Ball
Gate
Butterfly
Check
90 Degree
45 Degree
Side Branch
Straight Run
\
0.5
—
1.5
—
—
—
—
—
1.5
%
1
0.5
2
—
—
—
—
—
2
%
1.5
0.5
2
—
—
—
—
—
2.5
V 4
2
0.5
3
—
—
—
—
—
3
1
2.5
1
4.5
—
—
0.5
—
—
4.5
l'/ 4
3
1
5.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
—
—
5.5
\%
4
1.5
7
0.5
0.5
0.5
—
—
6.5
2
5.5
2
9
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
7.5
9
2%
7
2.5
12
0.5
0.5
—
1
10
11.5
3
9
3.5
15
1
1
—
1.5
15.5
14.5
3V 2
9
3.5
14
1
1
—
2
—
12.5
4
12.5
5
21
1
1
—
2
16
18.5
5
16
6
27
1.5
1.5
—
3
11.5
23.5
6
19
7
34
2
2
—
3.5
13.5
26.5
8
29
11
50
3
3
—
5
12.5
39
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
a. Allowances are for streamlined soldered fittings and recessed threaded fittings. For threaded fittings, double the allowances shown in the table. The equivalent
lengths presented in the table are based on a C factor of 150 in the Hazen-Williams friction loss formula. The lengths shown are rounded to the nearest half-
foot.
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
865
APPENDIX P
tx
cc
z
o
—j
—i
<
<
a:
3
o
<
3
4 =
=H : FRR =
= =? =
= =F4^FI=F!T : =
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= =F^q=n^p 9000
4-
444 44-
-4-
->^r4- 4-I-H4- —
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-|-i\rrtrt-
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f ~
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tttt
2000
HIBEiJ 100 °
1.44W4N
thtH
H-hH
400
300
PRESSURE DROP PER 100 FEET OF TUBE, POUNDS PER SQUARE INCH
Note: Fluid velocities in excess of 5 to 8 feet per second are not usually recommended.
For SI: I inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m, 1 pounds per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 foot per second = 0.305 m/s.
a. This figure applies to smooth new copper tubing with recessed (streamline) soldered joints and to the actual sizes of types indicated on the diagram.
FIGURE AP1 03.3(2)
FRICTION LOSS IN SMOOTH PIPE 3
(TYPE K, ASTM B 88 COPPER TUBING)
866
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX P
: FfflT
LU
h-
n
cc
LU
CO
<
<
o:
O
-rir
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H 4000
3000
^2000
Hioao
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o o o
- ^- in
o
o
PRESSURE DROP PER 100 FEET OF TUBE; POUNDS PER SQUARE INCH
Note: Fluid velocities in excess of 5 to 8 feet per second are not usually recommended.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m, 1 pounds per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 foot per second = 0.305 m/s.
a. This figure applies to smooth new copper tubing with recessed (streamline) soldered joints and to the actual sizes of types indicated on the diagram.
FIGURE AP1 03.3(3)
FRICTION LOSS IN SMOOTH PIPE 8
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
867
APPENDIX P
9000
— | j | I — (- I \ j-\
zizqznzjq i4
5
sr
in
Q_
<
<
g
o
_j
tr
=F — F^rFlfl 1 9000
■j" "-™" ~j — h" ~1 1 [ ™j I "i
'5000
_ — __ ™__ .. — . _p_. _j 4000
-13000
2000
q= q: q= pi| qp| d 10QD
r-rrnrH
Tnril 400
| — | -f— | -1 300
PRESSURE DROP PER 100 FEET OF TUBE, POUNDS PER SQUARE INCH
Note: Fluid velocities in excess of 5 to 8 feet per second are not usually recommended.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m, 1 pounds per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 foot per second = 0.305 m/s.
a. This figure applies to smooth new copper tubing with recessed (streamline) soldered joints and to the actual sizes of types indicated on the diagram.
FIGURE AP103.3(4)
FRICTION LOSS IN SMOOTH PIPE 8
868
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX P
UJ
i-
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cr
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a
w
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FRICTION LOSS POUNDS PER SQUARE INCH HEAD PER 100 FEET LENGTH
10000
9000
8000
7000
6000
ci a a obob <-
o o o oo o
10000
9000
8000
7000
6000
5000
4000
3000
2000
1000
900
800
700
600
500
400
300
200
z>
z
5
tr
LU
Q-
CD
100
z
90
u
80
70
<
60
z
50
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40
30
20
10
9
8
7
6
5
oo oooo o
■3- m <qi-.oo t» o
FRICTION LOSS POUNDS PER SQUARE INCH HEAD PER 100 FEET LENGTH
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m, I pounds per square inch = 6.895 kPa, I foot per second = 0.305 m/s.
a. This figure applies to smooth new steel (fairly smooth) pipe and to actual diameters of standard-weight pipe.
FIGURE AP1 03.3(5)
FRICTION LOSS IN FAIRLY ROUGH PIPE 3
o
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
869
APPENDIX P
cc
LU
a.
co
z
O
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<
I
FRICTION LOSS POUNDS PER SQUARE INCH HEAD PER 100 FEET LENGTH
10000
9000
8000
7000
6000
d d d d dd ddr
•j- in to r- co t»T-
o o oooo o
10000
9000
8000
7000
6000
oo oooo g
i-
3
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UJ
a.
to
z
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<!
u
z
o
FRICTION LOSS POUNDS PER SQUARE INCH HEAD PER 100 FEET LENGTH
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m, 1 pounds per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 foot per second = 0.305 m/s.
a. This figure applies to fairly rough pipe and to actual diameters which, in general, will be less than the actual diameters of the new pipe of the same kind.
FIGURE AP103.3(6)
FRICTION LOSS IN FAIRLY ROUGH PIPE 3
870
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX P
FRICTION LOSS POUNDS PER SQUARE INCH HEAD PER 100 FEET LENGTH
LU
Lt
LU
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10)00
K)00
8000
7000
6000
5000
4000
3000
2000
1000
900
800
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
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d d ddd>c5 r-
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30
20
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9
8
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6
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l\l i 1 l\l ILxA ' \ ! 3K^
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10000
9000
8000
7000
6000
5000
4000
3000
2000
1000
900
800
700
600
500
400
300
UJ
200
1
^
2
rr
LU
LL
100
<f>
90
80
_j
70
<
60
o
50
<tt
%
40
o
LL
30
20
10
9
8
7
6
5
eg
d
d
m cd r- ooo) o
d ddddr
m i- in to r-coroo
o
CO
ooo oo o o
run tor-cots) o
FRICTION LOSS POUNDS PER SQUARE INCH HEAD PER 100 FEET LENGTH
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 ram, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/m, 1 pounds per square inch = 6.895 kPa, I foot per second = 0.305 m/s.
a. This figure applies to very rough pipe and existing pipe, and to their actual diameters.
FIGURE AP1 03.3(7)
FRICTION LOSS IN FAIRLY ROUGH PIPE"
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
871
APPENDIX P
SECTION AP201
SELECTION OF PIPE SIZE
AP201.1 Size of water-service mains, branch mains and
risers. The minimum size water service pipe shall be 3 / 4 inch
(19.1 mm). The size of water service mains, branch mains
and risers shall be determined according to water supply
demand [gpm (L/m)], available water pressure [psi (kPa)] and
friction loss caused by the water meter and developed length
of pipe [feet (m)], including the equivalent length of fittings.
The size of each water distribution system shall be deter-
mined according to the procedure outlined in this section or
by other design methods conforming to acceptable engineer-
ing practice and approved by the building official:
1. Supply load in the building water distribution system
shall be determined by the total load on the pipe being
sized, in terms of w.s.f.u., as shown in Table
AP103.3(2). For fixtures not listed, choose a w.s.f.u.
value of a fixture with similar flow characteristics.
2. Obtain the minimum daily static service pressure [psi
(kPa)] available (as determined by the local water
authority) at the water meter or other source of supply
at the installation location. Adjust this minimum daily
static pressure [psi (kPa)] for the following conditions:
2.1. Determine the difference in elevation between
the source of supply and the highest water sup-
ply outlet. Where the highest water supply out-
let is located above the source of supply, deduct
0.5 psi (3.4 kPa) for each foot (0.3 m) of differ-
ence in elevation. Where the highest water sup-
ply outlet is located below the source of supply,
add 0.5 psi (3.4 kPa) for each foot (0.3 m) of
difference in elevation.
2.2. Where a water pressure-reducing valve is
installed in the water distribution system, the
minimum daily static water pressure available
is 80 percent of the minimum daily static water
pressure at the source of supply or the set pres-
sure downstream of the water pressure-reducing
valve, whichever is smaller.
2.3. Deduct all pressure losses caused by special
equipment, such as a backflow preventer, water
filter and water softener. Pressure loss data for
each piece of equipment shall be obtained
through the manufacturer of the device.
2.4. Deduct the pressure in excess of 8 psi (55 kPa)
resulting from the installation of the special
plumbing fixture, such as temperature-con-
trolled shower and flushometer tank water
closet. Using the resulting minimum available
pressure, find the corresponding pressure range
in Table AP201.1.
3. The maximum developed length for water piping is the
actual length of pipe between the source of supply and
the most remote fixture, including either hot (through
the water heater) or cold water branches multiplied by a
factor of 1.2 to compensate for pressure loss through
fittings. Select the appropriate column in Table
AP201.1 equal to or greater than the calculated maxi-
mum developed length.
4. To determine the size of the water service pipe, meter
and main distribution pipe to the building using the
appropriate table, follow down the selected "maximum
developed length" column to a fixture unit equal to or
greater than the total installation demand calculated by
using the "combined" w.s.f.u. column of Table
AP201.1. Read the water service pipe and meter sizes
in the first left-hand column and the main distribution
pipe to the building in the second left-hand column on
the same row.
5. To determine the size of each water distribution pipe,
start at the most remote outlet on each branch (either
hot or cold branch) and, working back toward the main
distribution pipe to the building, add up the w.s.f.u.
demand passing through each segment of the distribu-
tion system using the related hot or cold column of
Table AP201.1. Knowing demand, the size of each seg-
ment shall be read from the second left-hand column of
the same table and the maximum developed length col-
umn selected in Steps 1 and 2, under the same or next
smaller size meter row. In no case does the size of any
branch or main need to be larger that the size of the
main distribution pipe to the building established in
Step 4.
872
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX P
TABLE AP201.1
MINIMUM SIZE OF WATER METERS, MAINS AND DISTRIBUTION PIPING BASED ON WATER SUPPLY FIXTURE UNIT VALUES (w.s.f.u.)
METER AND SERVICE PIPE
(inches)
DISTRIBUTION PIPE
(inches)
MAXIMUM DEVELOPMENT LENGTH (feet)
Pressure Range 30 to 39 psi
40
60
80
100
150
200
250
300
400
500
%
V
2.5
2
1.5
1.5
1
1
0.5
0.5
%
%
9.5
7.5
6
5.5
4
3.5
3
2.5
2
1.5
%
1
32
25
20
16.5
11
9
7.8
6.5
5.5
4.5
1
1
32
32
27
21
13.5
10
8
7
5.5
5
\
iv 4
32
32
32
32
30
24
20
17
13
10.5
1
iv 4
80
80
70
61
45
34
27
22
16
12
l7 2
l'/ 4
80
80
80
75
54
40
31
25
17.5
13
1
l'/ 2
87
87
87
87
84
73
64
56
45
36
l7 2
17 2
151
151
151
151
117
92
79
69
54
43
2
17 2
151
151
151
151
128
99
83
72
56
45
1
2
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
86
17,
2
275
275
275
275
258
223
196
174
144
122
2
2
365
365
365
365
318
266
229
201
160
134
2
27 2
533
533
533
533
533
495
448
409
353
311
METER AND SERVICE PIPE
(inches)
DISTRIBUTION PIPE
(inches)
MAXIMUM DEVELOPMENT LENGTH (feet)
Pressure Range 40 to 49 psi
40
60
80
100
150
200
250
300
400
500
X
V
3
2.5
2
1.5
1.5
1
1
0.5
0.5
0.5
%
%
9.5
9.5
8.5
7
5.5
4.5
3.5
3
2.5
2
%
1
32
32
32
26
18
13.5
10.5
9
7.5
6
1
1
32
32
32
32
21
15
11.5
9.5
7.5
6.5
%
l'/ 4 j
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
27
21
16.5
1
iv 4
80
80
80
80
65
52
42
35
26
20
17 2
iv 4
80
80
80
80
75
59
48
39
28
21
1
17 2
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
78
65
55
17 2
iv 2
151
151
151
151
151
130
109
93
75
63
2
l'/ 2
151
151
151
151
151
139
115
98
77
64
1
2
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
17 2
2
275
275
275
275
275
275
264
238
198
169
2
2
365
365
365
365
365
349
304
270
220
185
2
27 2
533
533
533
533
533
533
533
528
456
403
(continued)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
873
APPENDIX P
TABLE AP201.1— continued
MINIMUM SIZE OF WATER METERS, MAINS AND DISTRIBUTION PIPING BASED ON WATER SUPPLY FIXTURE UNIT VALUES (w.s.f.u.)
METER AND SERVICE PIPE
(inches)
DISTRIBUTION PIPE
(inches)
MAXIMUM DEVELOPMENT LENGTH (feet)
Pressure Range 50 to 60 psi
40
60
80
100
150
200
250
300
400
500
X
7 2 a
3
3
2.5
2
1.5
1
1
1
0.5
0.5
X
X
9.5
9.5
9.5
8.5
6.5
5
4.5
4
3
2.5
X
l
32
32
32
32
25
18.5
14.5
12
9.5
8
1
l
32
32
32
32
30
22
16.5
13
10
8
X
1V 4
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
29
24
1
I'A
80
80
80
80
80
68
57
48
35
28
l7 2
iv 4
80
80
80
80
80
75
63
53
39
29
1
1V 2
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
82
70
iv 2
1V 2
151
151
151
151
151
151
139
120
94
79
2
1V 2
151
151
151
151
151
151
146
126
97
81
1
2
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
17 2
2
275
275
275
275
275
275
275
275
247
213
2
2
365
365
365
365
365
365
365
329
272
232
2
2V 2
533
533
533
533
533
533
533
533
533
486
METER AND SERVICE PIPE
(inches)
DISTRIBUTION PIPE
(inches)
MAXIMUM DEVELOPMENT LENGTH (feet)
Pressure Range Over 60
40
60
80
100
150
200
250
300
400
500
X
'/,*
3
3
3
2.5
2
1.5
1.5
1
1
0.5
X
X
9.5
9.5
9.5
9.5
7.5
6
5
4.5
3.5
3
X
1
32
32
32
32
32
24
19.5
15.5
11.5
9.5
1
1
32
32
32
32
32
28
28
17
12
9.5
X
l'/ 4
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
32
30
1
iv 4
80
80
80
80
80
80
69
60
46
36
1V 2
iv 4
80
80
80
80
80
80
76
65
50
38
1
17,
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
84
17 2
l7 2
151
151
151
151
151
151
151
144
114
94
2
\%
151
151
151
151
151
151
151
151
118
97
1
2
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
87
I'A
2
275
275
275
275
275
275
275
275
275
252
2
2
365
368
368
368
368
368
368
368
318
273
2
27 2
533
533
533
533
533
533
533
533
533
533
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa.
a. Minimum size for building supply is a 5 / 4 -inch pipe.
874
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX Q
ICC INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE ELECTRICAL
PROVISIONS/ NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE CROSS REFERENCE
(This appendix is informative and is not part of the code. This table is a cross reference of
Chapters 34 through 43 of this code, and the 2011 National Electrical Code, NFPA 70).
National Electrical Code
International Residential Code
CHAPTER 34 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
GENERAL
Applicability None
Scope 90 2
SECTION E3401
E3401.1
E3401.2
E3401.3
E3401.4
SECTION E3402
E3402.1
E3402.2
E3402.3
SECTION E3403
E3403.1
E3403.2
E3403.3
SECTION E3404
E3404.1
E3404.2
E3404.3
E3404.4
E3404.5
E3404.6
E3404.7
E3404.8
E3404.9
E3404.10
E3404.ll
E3404.12
SECTION E3405
E3405.1
Figure E3405.1
Not covered.
.90.2
E3405.2
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
Additions and alterations None
BUILDING STRUCTURE PROTECTION
Drilling and notching j^one
Penetrations of fire-resistance-rated assemblies 300.21
Penetrations of firestops and draftstops 300.21
INSPECTION AND APPROVAL
Approval 1102
Inspection required None
Listing and labeling .110 3
GENERAL EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
Voltages j 1Q 4
Interrupting rating 110 9
Circuit characteristics 110 10
Enclosure types
Protection of equipment 110 11
Unused openings 110.12(A)
Integrity of electrical equipment 1 10. 12(B)
Mounting 110.13(A)
Energized parts guarded against accidental contact 110.27(A)
Prevent physical damage j \ q 27(B)
Equipment identification 110 21
Identification of disconnecting means . 1 10 22
EQUIPMENT LOCATION AND CLEARANCES
Working space and clearances 1 jo.26
Working space and clearances ] 10.26(A)
Footnote ! 110.26(E)(1)(a)
Footnote 2 110.26(A)(3)
Footnote 3 110.26(B)
Footnote 4 230.70(A); 240.24(D), (E) and (F); Note 5
Footnote5 110.26(D)
Working clearances for energized equipment and panelboards 1 10.26(A)(1), (2) and (3)
875
APPENDIX Q
E3405.3
E3405.4
E3405.5
E3405.6
SECTION E3406
E3406.1
E3406.2
E3406.3
E3406.4
E3406.5
E3406.6
E3406.7
E3406.8
E3406.9
Table E3406.9
E3406.10
E3406.ll
E3406.11.1
E3406.ll. 2
E3406.ll. 3
E3406.12
SECTION E3407
E3407.1
E3407.2
E3407.3
E3407.4
E3407.4.1
E3407.4.2
CHAPTER 35
SECTION 3501
CHAPTER 36
SECTION E3601
E3601.1
E3601.2
E3601.3
E3601.4
E3601.5
E3601.6
E360 1.6.1
E3601.6.2
E3601.7
Dedicated panelboard space 110.26(F)(1)(a)
Location of working spaces and equipment 110.26(B); 230.70(A); and
240.24(D), (E) and (F)
Access and entrance to working space * 10.26(C)(1)
Illumination 110.26(D)
ELECTRICAL CONDUCTORS AND CONNECTIONS
Genera l Articles 110, 300 and 310
Conductor material u
Minimum size of conductors 310.106(A)
Stranded conductors 310.106(C)
Individual conductor insulation 310.10(B) and (C); and 310.106(D)
Conductors in parallel 310.10(H)(2)
Conductors of the same circuit 300.3(B)
Aluminum and copper connections 1 10.14
Fine stranded conductors 1 10. 14
Conductor stranding Chapter 9, Table 1
Terminals 110.14(A)
Splices 11014 ( B )
Continuity 30013 ( A >
Exception
300.13(A)
Device connections 250.148(B) and 300.13(B)
Length of conductor for splice or termination 300.14
Grounded conductor continuity 200.2(B)
CONDUCTOR IDENTIFICATION
Grounded conductors 200.6(A) and (B); and 310.110(A)
Equipment grounding conductors 250.1 19 and 310.110(B)
Ungrounded conductors 200.7(C)(1) and 310.1 10(C), Exception
Identification of terminals 200.10
Device terminals 200.10(A)
Receptacles, plugs and connectors 200.10(B)
ELECTRICAL DEFINITIONS
GENERAL Article 100, Definitions
SERVICES
GENERAL SERVICES
Scope 230 - 1
Number of services 230.2
One building or other structure not to be supplied through another 230.3
Other conductors in raceway or cable 230.7
Raceway seal 230.8
Service disconnect required 230.70
Marking of service equipment and disconnects 230.66 and 230.70(B)
Service disconnect location 230.70(A) and 230.72(C)
Maximum number of disconnects 230.71(A)
876
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX Q
SECTION E3602 SERVICE SIZE AND RATING
E3602.1 Ampacity of ungrounded conductors 230.79(C) and (D)
E3602.2 Service load 220.82(A)
Table E3602.2 Minimum service load calculation 220.82(B) and (C)
E3602.2.1 Services under 100 amperes None
E3602.3 Rating of service disconnect 230.79 and 230.80
E3602.4 Voltage rating 220.82(A)
SECTION E3603 SERVICE, FEEDER AND GROUNDING ELECTRODE CONDUCTOR SIZING
E3603.1 Grounded and ungrounded service conductor size 310.15(B)(7)
Table E3603.1 Service conductor and grounding electrode conductor sizing Table 310.15(B)(7) and
Table 250.66
Footnote a 250.64(E)
Footnote b 250.64(B)
Footnote c 250.64(B)
Footnote d 250.66(A) and (B)
E3603.2 Ungrounded service conductors for accessory buildings and structures 230.79(D)
Exception 1 230.42 and 230.79(A)
Exception2 230.42 and 230.79(B)
E3603.3 Overload protection 230.90
E3603.3.1 Ungrounded conductor 230.90(A)
Exception 230.90(A), Exception 3
E3603.3.2 Not in grounded conductor 230.90(B)
E3603.3.3 Location 230.91
E3603.4 Grounding electrode conductor size 250.66
E3603.5 Temperature limitations 1 10.14(C)(1)
SECTION E3604 OVERHEAD SERVICE AND SERVICE-ENTRANCE CONDUCTOR INSTALLATION
E3604.1 Clearances on buildings 230.9
Figure E3604.1 Clearances from building openings 230.9
E3604.2 Vertical clearances 230.24
E3604.2.1 Above roofs 230.24(A)
Exception 1 230.24(A), Exception 1
Exception 2 230.24(A), Exception 2
Exception 3 230.24(A), Exception 3
Exception 4 230.24(A), Exception 4
Exception 5 230.24(A), Exception 5
Figure E3604.2.1 Clearances from roofs 230.24
E3604.2.2 Vertical clearance from grade 230.24(B)
Item 1 230.24(B)(1)
Item 2 230.24(B)(2)
Item 3 230.24(B)(4)
E3604.3 Point of attachment 230.26
E3604.4 Means of attachment 230.27
E3604.5 Service masts as supports 230.28
E3604.6 Supports over buildings 230.29
201 2 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE® 877
APPENDIX Q
SECTION E3605
E3605.1
E3605.2
E3605.3
E3605.4
E3605.5
E3605.6
E3605.7
E3605.8
E3605.9
E3605.9.1
E3605.9.2
E3605.9.3
E3605.9.4
E3605.9.5
E3605.9.6
E3605.9.7
SECTION E3606
E3606.1
E3606.2
E3606.3
E3606.4
SECTION E3607
E3607.1
E3607.2
E3607.3
E3607.3.1
E3607.3.2
E3607.4
E3607.5
E3607.6
SECTION E3608
E3608.1
E3608.1.1
E3608. 1.1.1
E3608. 1.1.2
E3608.1.2
E3608.1.3
E3608.1.4
878
SERVICE-ENTRANCE CONDUCTORS
Insulation of service-entrance conductors 230.41
Exception 1 230.41, Exception
Exception 2 230.41, Exception
Wiring methods for services 230.43
Spliced conductors 230.46
Protection of underground service entrance conductors 230.50(A)
Protection of service cables against damage 230.50(B)
Direct sunlight exposure 310.10(D)
Mounting supports 230.5 1
Raceways to drain 230.53
Overhead service locations 230.54
Rain-tight service head 230.54(A)
Service cable, service head or gooseneck 230.54(B)
Service head location 230.54(C)
Exception 230.54(C), Exception
Separately bushed openings 230.54(E)
Drip loops 230.54(F)
Conductor arrangement 230.54(G)
Secured 230.54(D)
SERVICE EQUIPMENT— GENERAL
Service equipment enclosures 230.62
Working space 1 10.26
Available short-circuit current 1 10.9
Marking 230.66
SYSTEM GROUNDING
System service ground 250.20(B)(1) and 250.24(A)
Location of grounding electrode conductor connection 250.24(A)(1) and (A)(5)
Buildings or structures supplied by feeder(s) or branch circuit(s) 250.32(A)
Exception 250.32(A), Exception
Equipment grounding conductor 250.32(B) and Table 250.122
Grounded conductor 250.32(B)(1), Exception
Grounding electrode conductor 250.24(D)
Main bonding jumper 250.24(B)
Common grounding electrode 250.58
GROUNDING ELECTRODE SYSTEM
Grounding electrode system 250.50
Exception 250.50, Exception
Metal underground water pipe 250.52(A)(1)
Interior metal water piping 250.68(C)(1)
Installation 250.53(D) and 250.53(E)
Concrete-encased electrode 250.52(A)(3)
Ground rings 250.52(A)(4) and 250.53(F)
Rod and pipe electrodes 250.52(A)(5)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX Q
E3608. 1.4.1
E3608.1.5
E3608.1.6
E3608.2
E3608.3
E3608.4
E3608.5
E3608.6
SECTION E3609
E3609.1
E3609.2
E3609.3
E3609.4
E3609.4.1
E3609.4.2
E3609.4.3
E3609.4.4
E3609.5
E3609.6
E3609.7
SECTION E3610
E3610.1
E3610.2
E3610.3
E3610.4
SECTION E3611
E3611.1
E3611.2
E3611.3
E3611.4
E3611.5
E3611.6
CHAPTER 37
SECTION E3701
E3701.1
E3701.2
E3701.3
E3701.4
E3701.5
E370 1.5.1
E3701.5.2
Installation 250.53(G)
Plate electrodes 250.52(A)(7) and 250.53(H)
Other listed electrodes 250.52(A)(6)
Bonding jumper 250.53(C)
Rod, pipe and plate electrode requirements 250.53(A), (B) and (E)
Supplemental electrode required 250.53(A)(2) and (A)(3)
Aluminum electrodes 250.52(B)(2)
Metal underground gas piping system 250.52(B)(1)
BONDING
General 250.90
Bonding of service equipment 250.92(A)
Bonding to other systems 250.94
Method of bonding at the service 250.92(B)
Grounded service conductor 250.92(B)(1)
Threaded connections 250.92(B)(2)
Threadless couplings and connectors 250.92(B)(3)
Other devices 250.92(B)(4)
Sizing bonding jumper on supply side of service and
main bonding jumper 250.28(D) and 250.102(C)
Metal water piping bonding 250.104(A)
Bonding other metal piping 250. 1 04(B)
GROUNDING ELECTRODE CONDUCTORS
Continuous 250.64(C) and (F)
Securing and protection against physical damage 250.64(A) and (B)
Enclosures for grounding electrode conductors 250.64(E)
Prohibited use 250.121
GROUNDING ELECTRODE CONDUCTOR CONNECTION TO
GROUNDING ELECTRODES
Methods of grounding connection to electrodes 250.70
Accessibility 250.68(A)
Effective grounding path 250.68(B)
Interior metal water piping 250.68(C)(1)
Protection of ground clamps and fittings 250. 10
Clean surfaces 250.12
BRANCH-CIRCUIT AND FEEDER REQUIREMENTS
GENERAL
Scope None
Branch-circuit and feeder ampacity 210.19(A) and 215.2(A)(1)
Selection of ampacity 310.15(A)(2), Exception
Branch circuits with more than one receptacle 210.19(A)(2)
Multiwire branch circuits 210.4
Disconnecting means 210.4(B)
Grouping 210.4(D)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
879
APPENDIX Q
SECTION E3702
E3702.1
E3702.2
E3702.3
E3702.4
E3702.5
E3702.6
E3702.7
E3702.8
E3702.9
E3702.9.1
E3702.10
E3702.ll
E3702.12
E3702.12.1
E3702.12.2
E3702.13
Table E3702. 13
SECTION E3703
E3703.1
E3703.2
E3703.3
E3703.4
E3703.5
E3703.6
SECTION E3704
E3704.1
E3704.2
Table E3704.2(l)
Table E3704.2(2)
E3704.3
E3704.4
E3704.5
E3704.6
SECTION E3705
E3705.1
Table E3705.1
E3705.2
Table E3705.2
E3705.3
Table E3705.3
E3705.4
BRANCH-CIRCUIT RATINGS
Branch-circuit voltage limitations 210.6(A), (B) and (C)
Branch-circuit ampere rating 210.3
Fifteen- and 20-ampere branch circuits 210.23(A)
Thirty-ampere branch circuits 210.23(B)
Branch circuits serving multiple loads or outlets 210.23(A)
Branch circuits serving a single motor 430.22(A)
Branch circuits serving motor- operated and combination loads 220.18(A)
Branch-circuit inductive lighting loads 220.18(B)
Branch-circuit load for ranges and cooking appliances Table 220.55, Note 4
Minimum branch circuit for ranges 210.19(A)(3)
Branch circuits serving heating loads 422.13; and 424.3(A) and (B)
Branch circuits for air-conditioning and
heat pump equipment 440.4(B), 440.35 and 440.62(A)
Branch circuits serving room air conditioners 440.62(A)
Where no other loads are supplied 440.62(B)
Where lighting units or other appliances are also supplied 440.62(C)
Branch-circuit requirement — summary 210.24 and 210.25
Branch-circuit requirement — summary Table 210.24
REQUIRED BRANCH CIRCUITS
Branch circuits for heating 422.12 and 422.12, Exceptions 1 and 2
Kitchen and dining area receptacles 210.52 (B)(1)
Laundry circuit 210.11(C)(2); and 210.23(A), Exception
Bathroom branch circuits 210.11(C)(3)
Number of branch circuits 210.1 1(A)
Branch-circuit load proportioning 210.11(B)
FEEDER REQUIREMENTS
Conductor size 215.2 (A)(3) and (A)(4); 220.40; and Table 310.15(B)(7)
Feeder loads 220.40
Feeder load calculation Table 220.12, 220.14, Table 220.42(C), 220.50,
220.51, 220.52, 220.53, 220.54, 220.55 and 220.60
Demand loads for electric ranges, wall-mounted ovens, counter-mounted
cooking units and other cooking appliances over 13/4 kVA rating Table 220.55
Feeder neutral load 220.6 1
Lighting and general use receptacle load 220.12, Table 220.12 and 220.14(J)
Ampacity and calculated loads 220.40
Equipment grounding conductor 215.6
CONDUCTOR SIZING AND OVERCURRENT PROTECTION
General 310.15(A)
Allowable ampacities Table 310.15(B)(16)
Correction factors for ambient temperatures Table 310.15(B)(16)
Ambient temperature correction factors Table 310.15(B)(2)(a)
Adjustment factor for conductor proximity 310.15(B)(3)(a)
Conductor proximity adjustment factors Table 310.15(B)(3)(a)
Temperature limitations 110. 14(C)
880
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX Q
E3705.4.1
E3705.4.2
E3705.4.3
E3705.4.4
E3705.5
E3705.5.1
E3705.5.2
E3705.5.3
E3705.5.4
E3705.6
E3705.7
E3705.8
E3705.9
SECTION E3706
E3706.1
E3706.2
E3706.3
E3706.4
E3706.5
CHAPTER 38
SECTION E3801
E3801.1
E3801.2
Table E3 80 1.2
E3801.3
E3801.4
TableE3801.4
SECTION E3802
E3802.1
Table E3802.1
E3802.2
E3802.2.1
E3802.2.2
E3802.3
E3802.3.1
E3802.3.2
E3802.3.3
E3802.4
E3802.5
E3802.6
E3802.7
Conductors rated 60°C 110.14(C)(1)(a)
Conductors rated 75°C 1 10.14(C)(1)(b)
Separately installed pressure connectors 1 10. 14(C)(2)
Conductors of Type NM cable 334.80 and 334.112
Overcurrent protection required 240.4, 240.21 and Table 310.15(B)(6)
Cords 240.5
Overcurrent devices of the next higher size 240.4(B)
Small conductors 240.4(D)
Air-conditioning and heat pump equipment 240.4(G)
Fuses and fixed-trip circuit breakers 240.6
Location of overcurrent devices in or on premises 240.24(A), (C), (D), (E) and (F)
Ready access for occupants 240.24(B)
Enclosures for overcurrent devices 240.30(A) and (B)
PANELBOARDS
Panelboard rating 408.30
Panelboard circuit identification 408.4
Panelboard overcurrent protection 408.36
Grounded conductor terminations 408.41
Back-fed devices 408.36(D)
WIRING METHODS
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
Scope 300.1
Allowable wiring methods 1 10.8 and 300.3(A)
Allowable wiring methods None
Circuit conductors 300.3(B)
Wiring method applications Chapter 3 and 300.2
Allowable applications for wiring methods Chapter 3 and 300.2
ABOVE-GROUND INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
Installation and support requirements Chapter 3
General installation and support requirements for wiring methods Chapter 3
Cables in accessible attics 320.23 and 334.23
Across structural members 320.23(A) and 334.23
Cable installed through or parallel to
framing members 320.23(B)
Exposed cable 320.15 and 334.15
Surface installation 334.15(A)
Protection from physical damage 334.15(B)
Locations exposed to direct sunlight 310.10(D)
In unfinished basements 334.15(C)
Bends 334.24 and 338.24
Raceways exposed to different temperatures 300.7(A)
Raceways in wet locations above grade 300.9
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 9
881
APPENDIX Q
SECTION E3803
E3803.1
Table E3803.1
E3803.2
E3803.3
E3803.4
E3803.5
E3803.6
E3803.7
E3803.8
E3803.9
E3803.10
E3803.ll
CHAPTER 39
SECTION E3901
E3901.1
E3901.2
E3901.2.1
E3902.2.2
E3901.2.3
E3901.2.4
E3901.3
E3901.3.1
E3901.3.2
E3901.4
E3901.4.1
E3901.4.2
E3901.4.3
E3901.4.4
E3901.4.5
E3901.5
E3901.6
E3901.7
E3901.8
E3901.9
E3901.10
E3901.ll
SECTION E3902
E3902.1
E3902.2
E3902.3
E3902.4
E3902.5
882
UNDERGROUND INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
Minimum cover requirements 300.5(A)
Minimum cover requirements, burial in inches Table 300.5
Warning ribbon 300.5(D)(3)
Protection from damage 300.5(D)
Splices and taps 300.5(E)
Backfill 300.5(F)
Raceway seals 300.5(G)
Bushing 300.5(H)
Single conductors 300.5(1)
Ground movement 300.5(J)
Wet locations 300.5(B)
Under buildings 300.5(C)
POWER AND LIGHTING DISTRIBUTION
RECEPTACLE OUTLETS
General 210- 50 and 21052
General-purpose receptacle distribution 210.52(A)
Spacing 210.52(A)(2)
Wall space 210.52(A)(2)
Floor receptacles 210.52(A)(3)
Countertop receptacles 210.52(A)(4)
Small appliance receptacles 210.52(B)(1)
Other outlets prohibited 210.52(B)(2)
Limitations 210.52(B)(3)
Countertop receptacles 210.52(C)
Wall counter space 210.52(C)(1)
Island counter spaces 210.52(C)(2)
Peninsular counter space 210.52(C)(3)
Separate spaces 210.52(C)(4)
Receptacle outlet location 210.52(C)(5)
Appliance receptacle outlets 210.50(C)
Bathroom 210.52(D) and 406.5(E)
Outdoor outlets 210.52(E)
Laundry areas 210.52(F)
Basements and garages 210.52(G)
Hallways 210.52(H)
Foyers 210.52(1)
HVAC outlet 210.63
GROUND-FAULT AND ARC-FAULT CIRCUIT-INTERRUPTER PROTECTION
Bathroom receptacles 210.8(A)(1)
Garage and accessory building receptacles 210.8(A)(2)
Outdoor receptacles 210.8(A)(3)
Crawl space receptacles 210.8(A)(4)
Unfinished basement receptacles 210.8(A)(5)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX Q
E3902.6 Kitchen receptacles 210.8(A)(6)
E3902.7 Sink receptacles 210.8(A)(7) and 406.5(E)
E3902.8 Boathouse receptacles 210.8(A)(8)
E3902.9 Boat hoists 210.8(C)
E3902.10 Electrically heated floors 424.44(G)
E3902.1 1 Location of ground-fault circuit interrupters 210.8
E3902.12 Arc-fault circuit-interrupter protection 210.12(A)
E3902.13 Arc-fault circuit-interrupter protection for branch-circuit extensions or
modifications 210.12(B)
SECTION E3903 LIGHTING OUTLETS
E3903.1 General 210.70(A)
E3903.2 Habitable rooms 210.70(A)(1)
E3903.3 Additional locations 210.70(A)(2)
E3903.4 Storage or equipment spaces 210.70(A)(3)
SECTION E3904 GENERAL INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
E3904.1 Electrical continuity of metal raceways and enclosures 300.10
E3904.2 Mechanical continuity — raceways and cables 300.12
E3904.3 Securing and supporting 300.11(A)
E3904.3.1 Prohibited means of support 300.11(C)
E3904.4 Raceways as means of support 300.1 1(B)
E3904.5 Raceway installations 300.18
E3904.6 Conduit and tubing fill 300.17; Chapter 9, Table 1; and Annex C
Tables E3904.6(l)-
E3904.6(10) Maximum number of conductors in conduit or tubing. . 300.17; and Chapter 9, Table l.Note 1
E3904.7 Air handling — stud cavity and joist spaces 300.22(C), Exception
CHAPTER E3905 BOXES, CONDUIT BODIES AND FITTINGS
E3905.1 Box, conduit body or fitting — where required 300.15
E3905.1.1 Equipment 300.15(B)
E3905.1.2 Protection 300.15(C)
E3905.1.3 Integral enclosure 300.15(E)
E3905.1.4 Fitting 300.15(F)
E3905.1.5 Buried conductors 300.15(G)
E3905.1.6 Luminaires 300.15(J)
E3905.2 Metal boxes 314.4
E3905.3 Nonmetallic boxes 314.3
E3905.3.1 Nonmetallic-sheathed cable and nonmetallic boxes 314.17(C)
E3905.3.2 Securing to box 314.17(C)
E3905.3.3 Conductor rating 314.17(C)
E3905.4 Minimum depth of outlet boxes 314.24
E3905.4.1 Outlet boxes without enclosed devices
E3905.4.2 Utilization equipment
E3905.5 Boxes enclosing flush-mounted devices 314.19
E3905.6 Boxes at luminaire (lighting fixture) outlets 314.27(A)(1) and(2)
E3905.6.1 Wall outlets
E3905.6.2 Ceiling outlets
201 2 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 18 883
APPENDIX Q
E3905.7
E3905.8
E3905.9
E3905.10
E3905.il
E3905.12
E3905.12.1
Table E3905. 12.1
E3905. 12.1.1
E3905. 12.1.2
E3905.12.2
E3905. 12.2.1
Table E3905. 12.2.1
E3905. 12.2.2
E3905.12.2.3
E3905. 12.2.4
E3905.12.2.5
E3905.12.3
E3905.12.3.1
E3905. 12.3.2
SECTION E3906
E3906.1
E3906.1.1
E3906.2
E3906.3
E3906.4
E3906.5
E3906.6
E3906.7
E3906.8
E3906.8.1
E3906.8.2
E3906.8.2.1
E3906.8.2.2
E3906.8.3
E3906.8.4
E3906.8.5
E3906.8.6
E3906.9
E3906.10
E3906.ll
SECTION E3907
E3907.1
E3907.2
Floor boxes 314.27(C)
Boxes at fan outlets 314.27(D)
Utilization equipment 314.27(E)
Conduit bodies, junction, pull and outlet boxes to be accessible 314.29
Damp or wet locations 314.15
Number of conductors in outlet, device, and junction boxes and conduit boxes 3 14.16
Box volume calculations 314.16(A)
Maximum number of conductors in metal boxes Table 314.16
Standard boxes 314.16(A)(1)
Other boxes 314.16(A)(2)
Box fill calculations 314.16(B)
Conductor fill Table 314.16 and 314.16(B)(1)
Volume allowance required per conductor Table 314.16(B)
Clamp fill 314.16(B)(2)
Support fittings fill 314.16(B)(3)
Device or equipment fill 314.16(B)(4)
Equipment grounding conductor fill 314.16(B)(5)
Conduit bodies 314.16(C)(1)
Splices, taps or devices 314.16(C)(2)
Short radius conduit bodies 314.16(C)(3)
INSTALLATION OF BOXES, CONDUIT BODIES AND FITTINGS
Conductors entering boxes, conduit bodies or fittings 314.17
Insulated fittings 300.4(G)
Openings 314.17(A)
Metal boxes, conduit bodies and fittings 314.17(B)
Unused openings 1 1 0. 1 2(A)
In wall or ceiling 3 14.20
Noncombustible surfaces 314.21
Surface extensions 314.22
Supports 3 14.23
Surface mounting 3 14.23(A)
Structural mounting 314.23(B)
Nails and screws 314.23(B)(1)
Braces 314.23(B)(2)
Mounting in finished surfaces 314.23(C)
Raceway supported enclosures without devices or fixtures 314.23(E)
Raceway supported enclosures with devices or fixtures 314.23(F)
Enclosures in concrete or masonry 314.23(G)
Covers and canopies 3 14.25
Metal covers and plates 3 14.25(A)
Exposed combustible finish 314.25(B)
CABINETS AND PANELBOARDS
Switch and overcurrent device enclosures 312.8
Damp or wet locations 312.2
884
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX Q
E3907.3
E3907.4
E3907.5
E3907.6
E3907.7
E3907.8
SECTION E3908
E3908.1
E3908.2
E3908.3
E3908.4
E3908.5
E3908.6
E3908.7
E3908.8
E3908.8.1
E3908.8.2
E3908.8.3
E3908.9
E3908.10
E3908.ll
E3908.12
Table E3908. 12
E3908.12.1
E3908.13
E3908.14
E3908.15
E3908.16
E3908.17
E3908.18
E3908.19
E3908.20
E3908.20.1
E3908.20.2
E3908.20.3
SECTION E3909
E3909.1
E3909.2
Table E3909.2
E3909.3
E3909.4
Position in wall 312.3
Repairing noncombustible surfaces 312.4
Unused openings 1 10.12(A) and 408.7
Conductors entering cabinets 300.4(G) and 312.5(B)
Openings to be closed 3 12.5(A)
Cables 312.5(C)
GROUNDING
Metal enclosures 250.86
Equipment fastened in place or connected by
permanent wiring methods (fixed) 250.1 10(1), (2) and (3)
Specific equipment fastened in place or connected by
permanent wiring methods 250. 1 1 2(J), (L) and (M)
Effective ground-fault current path 250.4(A)(5)
Earth as a ground-fault current path 250.4(A)(5)
Load-side grounded conductor 250.24(A)(5)
Load-side equipment 250.142(B)
Types of equipment grounding conductors 250. 118
Flexible metal conduit 250.1 18(5)
Liquid-tight flexible metal conduit 250.1 18(6)
Nonmetallic sheathed cable (Type NM) 334.108
Equipment fastened in place or connected by permanent wiring methods 250. 1 34
Methods of equipment grounding 250 Part (VII)
Equipment grounding conductor installation 250. 120
Equipment grounding conductor size 250.122(A) and (B)
Equipment grounding conductor sizing Table 250.122
Multiple circuits 250.122(C)
Continuity and attachment of equipment grounding conductors to boxes 250.148
Connecting receptacle grounding terminal to box 250.146(A), (B) and (C)
Metal boxes 250.8 and 250.148(C)
Nonmetallic boxes 250.148(D)
Clean surfaces 250. 12
Bonding other enclosures 250.96(A)
Size of equipment bonding jumper on load side of service 250.102(D) and 250.122
Installation — equipment bonding jumper 250.102(E)
Inside raceway or enclosure
Outside raceway or enclosure
Protection
FLEXIBLE CORDS
Where permitted 400.7 and 400.8
Loading and protection 240.4; 240.5(A) and 240.5(B)(1); 400.5; and 400.13
Maximum ampere load for flexible cords Table 400.5(A)(1)
Splices 400.9
Attachment plugs 400.7(B)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
885
APPENDIX Q
CHAPTER 40
SECTION E4001
E4001.1
E4001.2
E4001.3
E4001.4
E4001.5
E4001.6
E4001.7
E4001.8
E4001.9
E4001.10
E4001.ll
E4001.11.1
E4001.12
E4001.13
E4001.14
E4001.15
SECTION E4002
E4002.1
E4002.1.1
E4002.1.2
Table E4002. 1.2
E4002.2
E4002.3
E4002.4
E4002.5
E4002.6
E4002.7
E4002.8
E4002.9
E4002.10
E4002.ll
E4002.12
E4002.13
E4002.14
SECTION E4003
E4003.1
E4003.2
E4003.3
E4003.4
E4003.5
E4003.6
E4003.7
886
DEVICES AND LIGHTING FIXTURES
SWITCHES
Rating and application of snap switches 404. 14(A)
CO/ALR snap switches 404.14(C)
Indicating 404.7
Time switches and similar devices 404.5
Grounding of enclosures 404.12
Access 404.8(A)
Damp or wet locations 404.4
Grounded conductors 404.2(B)
Switch connections 404.2(A)
Box mounted 404.10(B)
Snap switch faceplates 404.9(A)
Faceplate grounding 404.9(B)
Dimmer switches 404.14(E)
Multipole snap switches 404.8(C)
Cord- and plug-connected loads 401.14(F)
Switches controlling lighting loads 404.2(C)
RECEPTACLES
Rating and type 406.3(A) and (B)
Single receptacle 210.21(B)(1)
Two or more receptacles 210.21(B)(3)
Receptacle ratings for various size multioutlet circuits Table 210.21(B)(3)
Grounding type 406.4(A)
CO/ALR receptacles 406.3(C)
Faceplates 406.6(B)
Position of receptacle faces 406.5(D) and 406.6
Receptacles mounted in boxes 406.5(A) and 406.5(B)
Receptacles mounted on covers 406.5(C)
Damp locations 406.9(A)
15- and 20-ampere receptacles in wet locations 406.9(B)(1)
Other receptacles in wet locations 406.9(B)(2)
Bathtub and shower space 406.9(C)
Flush mounting with faceplate 406.9(E)
Exposed terminals 406.5(F)
Tamper-resistant receptacles 406.12
LUMINAIRES
Energized parts 410.5
Luminaires near combustible material 410.1 1
Exposed conductive parts 410.42(A)
Screw-shell type 410.90
Recessed incandescent luminaires 410.1 15(C)
Thermal protection 410.130(E)(1)
High-intensity discharge luminaires 410.130(F)
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX Q
E4003.8
E4003.9
E4003.10
E4003.ll
E4003.12
Figure E4003. 12
E4003.13
E4003.13.1
E4003.13.2
SECTION E4004
E4004.1
E4004.2
E4004.3
E4004.4
E4004.5
E4004.6
E4004.7
E4004.8
E4004.9
SECTION E4005
E4005.1
E4005.2
E4005.3
E4005.4
E4005.5
E4005.6
CHAPTER 41
SECTION E4101
E4101.1
E4101.2
E4101.3
Table E4 10 1.3
E4101.4
E4101.4.1
E4101.5
Table E4 10 1.5
E4101.6
E4101.7
CHAPTER 42
SECTION E4201
E4201.1
E4201.2
Metal halide lamp containment 410.130(F)(5)
Wet or damp locations 410.10(A)
Lampholders in wet or damp locations 410.96
Bathtub and shower area 410.10(D)
Luminaires in clothes closets 410.2; and 410.16(A), (B), (C) and (D)
Closet storage space Figure 41 0.2
Luminaire wiring — general 410.48
Polarization of luminaires 410.50
Luminaires as raceways 410.64(A), (B) and (C)
LUMINAIRE INSTALLATION
Outlet box covers 410.22
Combustible material at outlet boxes 410.23
Access 410.8
Supports 410.30(A)
Means of support 410.36(A)
Exposed components 410.136(A)
Combustible low-density cellulose fiberboard 410.136(B)
Recessed luminaire clearance 410.116(A)(1) and (2)
Recessed luminaire installation 410.1 16(B)
TRACK LIGHTING
Installation 410.151(A) and (B)
Fittings 410.151(A) and (D)
Connected load 410.151(B)
Prohibited locations 410.151(C)
Fastening 410.154
Grounding 410.155(B)
APPLIANCE INSTALLATION
GENERAL
Scope 422.1 and 424.1
Installation 1 10.3(B) and 422.17
Flexible cords 422.16
Flexible cord length 422.16(B)(1), (2) and (4)
Overcurrent protection 422. 1 1
Single nonmotor-operated appliance 422.11(E)
Disconnecting means 422.30, 422.35 and 424.19
Disconnecting means . . . .422.31(A), (B) and (C); 422.34; 422.35; 424.19; 424.20; and 440.14
Support of ceiling-suspended paddle fans 422.18
Snow-melting and deicing equipment protection 210.8(A)(3), Exception; and 426.28
SWIMMING POOLS
GENERAL
Scope 680.1
Definitions 680.2
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
887
APPENDIX Q
SECTION E4202
E4202.1
E4202.2
E4202.3
SECTION E4203
E4203.1
E4203.1.1
E4203.1.2
E4203.1.3
E4203.1.4
E4203.1.5
E4203.2
E4203.3
E4203.4
E4203.4.1
E4203.4.2
E4203.4.3
E4203.4.4
E4203.4.5
4203.5
E4203.6
Table E4203.6
E4203.7
Table E4203.7
SECTION E4204
E4204.1
E4204.2
E4204.3
E4204.4
E4204.5
E4204.5.1
E4204.5.2
SECTION E420S
E4205.1
E4205.2
E4205.3
E4205.4
E4205.5
E4205.6
E4205.6.1
E4205.7
E4205.8
WIRING METHODS FOR POOLS, SPAS,
HOT TUBS AND HYDROMASSAGE BATH TUBS
General 680.7; 680.21(A); 680.23(B) and (F); 680.25(A);
680.40; 680.42; 680.43; and 680.70
Flexible cords . . 680.7(A) and (B); 680.22(B)(5); 680.23(B)(3); 680.42; and 680.43, Exception
Double-insulated pool pumps 680.21(B)
EQUIPMENT LOCATION AND CLEARANCES
Receptacle outlets 680.22(A)(5)
Location 680.22(A)(1)
Where required 680.22.(A)(3)
GFCI protection 680.22(C)
Indoor locations 680.43(A) and (A)(1)
Indoor GFCI protection 680.43(A)(2)
Switching devices 680.22(D), 680.43(C) and 680.72
Disconnecting means 680. 12
Luminaires and ceiling fans 680.22(B)
Outdoor location 680.22(B)(1)
Indoor location 680.22(B)(2)
Existing lighting outlets and luminaires 680.22(B)(3)
Indoor spas and hot tubs 680.43(B)
GFCI protection in adjacent areas 680.22(B)(4)
Other outlets 680.22(D)
Overhead conductor clearances 680.8
Overhead conductor clearances Table 680.8
Underground wiring 680. 10
Underground wiring Table 680.10
BONDING
Performance 680.26(A)
Bonded parts 680.26(B); 680.26(E); 680.42(B); and 680.43(D)(4)
Pool water 680.26(C)
Bonding of outdoor hot tubs and spas 680.42 and 680.42(B)
Bonding of indoor hot tubs and spas 680.43(D)
Methods 680.43(E)
Connections 680.26(B)
GROUNDING
Equipment to be grounded 680.6
Luminaires and related equipment 680.23(F)(2) and 680.24(F)
Nonmetallic conduit 680.23(B)(2)(b)
Flexible cords 680.23(B)(3)
Motors 680.21(A)(1) and (4)
Feeders 680.25(B) and (B)(1)
Separate buildings 680.25(B)(2)
Cord-connected equipment 680.7
Other equipment Article 250, Parts V, VI and VII; and 680.6
888
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
APPENDIX Q
SECTION E4206
E4206.1
E4206.2
E4206.3
E4206.4
E4206.4.1
E4206.4.2
E4206.5
E4206.5.1
E4206.6
E4206.7
E4206.8
E4206.9
E4206.9.1
E4206.9.2
E4206.9.3
E4206.9.4
E4206.9.5
E4206.10
E4206.10.1
E4206.10.2
E4206.10.3
E4206.11
E4206.12
E4206.13
E4206.13.1
E4206.13.2
E4206.I3.3
SECTION E4207
E4207.1
E4207.2
E4207.3
E4207.3.1
E4207.3.2
E4207.4
SECTION E4208
E4208.1
E4208.2
E4208.3
E4208.4
SECTION E4209
E4209.1
E4209.2
E4209.3
EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION
Transformers 680.23(A)(2)
Ground-fault circuit-interrupters 680.5
Wiring on load side of ground-fault circuit-interrupters and transformers 680.23(F)(3)
Underwater luminaires 680.23(A)(1), (3) and (7)
Maximum voltage 680.23(A)(4)
Luminaire location 680.23(A)(5) and (6)
Wet-niche luminaires 680.23(B)(1), (2), (4) and (5)
Servicing 680.23(B)(6)
Dry-niche luminaires 680.23(C)(1) and (2)
No-niche luminaires 680.23(D)
Through-wall lighting assembly 680.23(E)
Junction boxes and enclosures for transformers or
ground-fault circuit-interrupters 680.24(A) through (E)
Junction boxes 680.24(A)(1) and (2)
Other enclosures 680.24(B)(1) and (2)
Protection of junction boxes and enclosures 680.24(C)
Grounding terminals 680.24(D)
Strain relief 680.24(E)
Underwater audio equipment 680.27(A)
Speakers 680.27(A)(1)
Wiring methods 680.27(A)(2)
Forming shell and metal screen 680.27(A)(3)
Electrically operated pool covers 680.27(B)(1) and (2)
Electric pool water heaters 680.9
Pool area heating 680.27(C)
Unit heaters 680.27(C)(1)
Permanently wired radiant heaters 680.27(C)(2)
Radiant heating cables prohibited 680.27(C)(3)
STORABLE SWIMMING POOLS
Pumps 680.31
Ground-fault circuit-interrupters required 680.32
Luminaires 680.33
Within the low voltage contact limit 680.33(A)
Over the low voltage contact limit 680.33(B)
Receptacle locations 680.34
SPAS AND HOT TUBS
Ground-fault circuit-interrupters 680.44(A) and (B)
Electric water heaters 680.9
Underwater audio equipment 680.43(G)
Emergency switch for spas and hot tubs 680.41
HYDROMASSAGE BATHTUBS
Ground-fault circuit-interrupters 680.71
Other electric equipment 680.72
Accessibility 680.73
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
889
APPENDIX Q
E4209.4
CHAPTER 43
SECTION E4301
E4301.1
E4301.2
SECTION E4302
E4302.1
E4302.2
SECTION E4303
E4303.1
E4303.2
Table E4303.2
E4303.2.1
E4303.2.2
E4303.2.3
E4303.2.4
SECTION E4304
E4304.1
E4304.2
E4304.3
E4304.4
E4304.5
E4304.6
Bonding 680.74
CLASS 2 REMOTE-CONTROL, SIGNALING AND POWER-LIMITED CIRCUITS
GENERAL
Scope 725.1
Definitions Article 1 00 and 725.2
POWER SOURCES
Power sources for Class 2 circuits 725.121(A)
Interconnection of power sources 725.121(B)
WIRING METHODS
Wiring methods on supply side of Class 2 power source 725.127
Wiring methods and materials on load side of
Class 2 power source 725.130, 725.154, Table 725.154(G), 725.179
Cable uses and permitted substitutions 725.154 and Table 725.154(G)
Type CL2P cables 725.154(A) and 725.179(A)
Type CL2 cables 725.179(C)
Type CL2X cables 725.154(E)(4) and 725.179(D)
Marking 725.179(L)
INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
Separation from other conductors 725.136(A), (B), (C) and (D)
Other applications 725.136(1)
Class 2 circuits with communication circuits 725.139(D)
Class 2 cables with other circuit cables 725. 139(E)(1) through (5)
Installation of conductors and cables 300.11(B)(2), 725.21, 725.24 and 725.143
Bushing 725.3(J)
890
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
INDEX
ABSORPTION COOLING EQUIPMENT M1412
ACCESS
To appliances M1 305
To attic R807
To crawl space R408.4
To equipment M1401 .2
To floor furnace M1408.4
To plumbing connections P2704
To plumbing fixtures P2705
To whirlpool pumps P2720.1
ACCESSIBLE
Definition R202
Readily accessible, definition R202
ACCESSORY STRUCTURE
Definition R202
ADDRESS (SITE) R319
ADMINISTRATIVE Chapter 1
Authority R104
Entry R104.6
Inspections R1 09
Permits R105
Purpose R101.3
Violations R113
AIR
Combustion Chapter 17, G2407
Combustion air, definition R202
Return M1602
AIR CONDITIONERS
Branch circuits E3702.1 1
Room air conditioners E3702.12
ALLOWABLE SPANS
Of floor joists R502.3, R505.3.2
Of headers R602.7, R603.6, R613.10
Of rafters and ceiling joists R802.4, R802.5,
R804.3.1, R804.3.2
ALTERNATIVE MATERIALS
(see MATERIALS) R104.11
AMPACITY E3501
ANCHOR BOLTS R403.1.6
APPEAL
Board of R112.1
Right of R112
APPLIANCE
Access to M1305
Attic M1305.1.3
Clearance for M1306
Connectors, fuel-gas Chapter 24
Definition R202
Definition applied to electrical
equipment E3501
Electrical appliance
disconnection means E4101.5
Electrical appliance installation E4101
Equipment (general) Chapter 14
Floor furnace M1408
Flue area R1003.14
Fuel-burning Chapter 24
Heating and cooling Chapter 14
Installation M1307
Labeling M1303
Open-top broiler units M1 505.1
Outdoor G2454
Ranges M1901
Room heaters M1410
Special fuel-burning equipment Chapter 19
Vented (decorative) Chapter 24
Wall furnace M1409
Warm-air furnace M1402
Water heaters Chapter 20, Chapter 24
APPLICATION
Plywood R703.3
APPROVAL
Mechanical M1302
APPROVED
Definition R202
Definition applied to electrical equipment E3501
ARC-FAULT CIRCUIT-INTERRUPTER E3902
AREA
Disposal, private sewage disposal P2602
Flue (appliances) R1003.14
Flue masonry R1 003.1 5
ARMORED CABLE Table E3801 .2
ASPHALT SHINGLES R905.2
ATTACHMENT PLUG (PLUG CAP) (CAP)
Definition E3501
ATTIC
Access R807
AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS . . R313
B
BACKFILL
For piping P2604
BACKFLOW, DRAINAGE
Definition R202
BACKWATER VALVE R202
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
891
INDEX
BASEMENT WALL
Definition R202
BATH AND SHOWER SPACES R307
BATHROOM
Exhaust M1 507.4
Group R202, Table P3004.1
BATHTUB
Enclosure P2713
Hydromassage E4209
Whirlpool P2720
BEAM SUPPORTS R606.14
BEARING
Of joists R502.6
BIDETS P2721
BOILER
Definition R202
Requirements Chapter 20
BONDING E3609, E4204
Definition applied to
electrical installations E3501
BONDING JUMPER E3501
Bonding of service equipment E3609.2
Bonding to other systems E3609.3
Main bonding jumper E3607.5
Metal water piping bonding E3608.1 .1
Sizing bonding jumpers E3609.5
BORED HOLES (see NOTCHING)
BOXES E3906
Nonmetallic boxes E3905.3
Support of boxes E3904.3
Where required E3905.1
BRANCH CIRCUIT E3501, Chapter 37
Branch circuit ampacity E3701 .2
Branch circuit ratings E3702
Branch circuits required E3703
BUILDING
Definition R202
Drain, definition R202
Existing, definition R202
Sewer, definition R202
BUILDING OFFICIAL
Definition R202
Inspection and tests of
fuel-gas piping Chapter 24
BUILDING PLANNING
Automatic fire sprinkler systems R313
Carbon monoxide alarms R31 5
Ceiling height R305
Decay protection R31 7
Design criteria R301
Emergency escape R310
Exterior wall R302.1
Fire-resistant construction R302
Foam plastic R316
Garages and carports R309
Glazing R308
Guardrails R312
Handrails R31 1.7.8, R31 1.8.3
Insulation R302.10
Landing R311.3, R31 1.3.1, R31 1.3.2, R31 1.5.1
Light, ventilation and heating R303
Means of egress R31 1
Minimum room area R304
Planning Chapter 3
Plumbing fixture clearances R307
Radon protection Appendix F
Ramps R311.8
Sanitation R306
Site address R31 9
Smoke alarms R314
Stairways R31 1 .7
Storm shelters R323
Termite protection R31 8
BUILDING THERMAL ENVELOPE
Definition R202
BUILT-UP GIRDERS (see GIRDERS)
BUILT-UP ROOFING (see ROOFING)
c
CABINETS AND PANELBOARDS E3907
CAPACITY
Expansion tank M2003.2
CARBON MONOXIDE ALARMS R315
CARPORT R309.4
CEILING
Finishes R805
Height R305
CEILING FANS E4203.4
CENTRAL FURNACES (see FURNACES)
CHASES R606.7
CHIMNEYS
And fireplaces Chapter 1
Caps R1003.9.1
Clearance R1003.18
Corbeling R1003.5
Crickets R1 003.20
Design (masonry) R1003.1
Factory-built R1005
Fireblocking R1 003.1 9
Flue area R1003.14, R1003.15
Flue lining R100311
892
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
INDEX
Load R1003.8
Masonry and factory built, size M1805
Multiple flue R1 003.1 4
Rain caps 1 003.9.3
Spark arrestors R1 003.9.2
Termination R1 003.9
Wall thickness R1003.10
CIRCUIT BREAKER
Definition E3401
CLASS 2 CIRCUITS
Class 2 remote-control, signaling
and power-limited circuits Chapter 43
CLAY
Tiles R905.3
CLEANOUT
Definition R202
Drainage P3005.2
Masonry chimney R1003.17
CLEARANCE
Above cooking top M1 901.1
For appliances M1 306.1
For chimneys R1 003.18
Reduction methods M1306.2
Vent connector M1 803.3.4
CLEARANCES
Around electrical equipment E3405.1, E3604.1,
E3604.2, E3604.3
CLOTHES CLOSETS
Lighting fixtures E4003.12
CLOTHES DRYERS M1502, Chapter 24
CLOTHES WASHING MACHINES P271 8
COLUMNS R407
COMBUSTIBLE
Materials R202
COMBUSTION AIR
Air Chapter 17
Definition R202
Indoor M1702
Supply M1701.1
COMMON VENT
Definition R202
Requirements M1801.11
CONCRETE
Compressive Strength R402.2
Floors (on ground) R506
Tile (roof) R905.3
Weathering Figure R301.2(3), R402.2
CONCRETE-ENCASED ELECTRODE E3608.1.2
CONDUCTOR E3406
Ampacity E3705.1
Definition E3501
Identification E3407
Insulation E3406.5
Material E3406.2
Parallel E3406.6
Size E3406.3, E3704.1
Ungrounded E3603.1
CONDUIT BODY
Definition E3501
CONNECTION
Access to connections P2704
For fuel-burning appliances Chapter 24
For fuel-oil piping M2202
Joints P2904
Plumbing fixture P2601 .2
To water supply P2902.1
CONNECTIONS
Aluminum E3406.8
Device E3406.10.2
CONNECTOR
Chimney and vent M1803
Vent, definition R202
CONNECTOR, PRESSURE (SOLDERLESS)
Definition E3501
CONSTRUCTION
Cavity wall masonry R608
Flood-resistant R322
Floors Chapter 5
Footings R403
Foundation material R402
Foundation walls R404
Foundations Chapter 4
Grouted masonry R609
Masonry R606, R607,
R608, R609, R610
Reinforced hollow unit masonry R609.4
Roofs Chapter 8
Steel framing R505, R603, R804
Wood framing R502, R602, R802
Walls Chapter 6
CONTINUOUS LOAD
Definition E3501
CONTINUOUS WASTE
Definition R202
CONTROL
Devices Chapter 24
CONTROLS
For forced-air furnaces Chapter 24
COOKING UNIT, COUNTER-MOUNTED
Definition E3501
COOLING
Absorption cooling equipment M1412
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
893
INDEX
Access to equipment M1401.2
Evaporative cooling equipment M1413
Installation M1401.1
Refrigeration cooling equipment M1404
Return air-supply source M1602
Screen inlet protection M1 602.3
COPPER-CLAD ALUMINUM CONDUCTORS
Definition E3501
CORDS
Flexible E4101 .3, E4202.2
COURT
Definition R202
COVER REQUIREMENTS E3803.1
COVERING
Exterior R703
Interior R702
Roof Chapter 9
Wall Chapter 7
CRAWL SPACE R408
CRITERIA
Design R301
CROSS CONNECTION
Definition R202
D
DAMPER, VOLUME
Definition R202
DECAY
Protection against R317
DECK
Supported by exterior wall R502.2.2
Wood/plastic composite
boards R502.1.7, R502.2.2.4
DECORATIVE APPLIANCES
Outdoor G2454
Vented Chapter 24
DEFINITIONS
Building R202
Electrical E3501
Mechanical system R202
Plumbing R202
DESIGN
Criteria R301
DIRECTIONAL
Fittings, plumbing P2707
DISCONNECTING MEANS
Definition E3501
DISHWASHING MACHINES P2717
DOORS
Egress R311.2
Exterior R31 1.3.2, R612
DRAFT HOOD
Definition R202
DRAFTSTOPPING R302.12, R502.12
DRAIN
Floor P2719
Shower receptors P2709
DRAINAGE
Cleanouts P3005.2
Foundation R405
Inspection and tests P2503
Storm drainage Chapter 33
DRILLING AND NOTCHING (see NOTCHING)
DRIP LOOPS E3605.9.5
DRYERS
Domestic clothes M1502
DUCTS Chapter 1 6
Installation M1601 .4
Insulation N1 103.2, M1601.3
Material M1601.1
System, definition R202
DWELLING
Definition R202, E3501
DWELLING UNIT
Definition R202, E3501
Separation R302.2, R302.3
E
ELECTRICAL
Appliance (labeling) M1303
Inspection E3403
ELECTRICAL METALLIC TUBING . . . Table E3904.6
ELECTRICAL NONMETALLIC
TUBING Table E3904.6
ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE HEATERS
Baseboard convectors M1405
Duct heaters M1407
Radiant heating M1406
ELECTRODES
Grounding E3608
EMERGENCY ESCAPE R202, R310
ENCLOSURE
Definition E3501
ENERGY CONSERVATION Chapter 1 1
ENTRY R104.6
EQUIPMENT
Definition applied to electrical equipment E3501
General, mechanical Chapter 14
Heating and cooling Chapter 14
894
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
INDEX
EXCAVATIONS
For appliance installation M1305.1 .4.2
EXTERIOR
Covering R703
Insulation finish systems R703.9
Lath R703.6.1
Plaster R703.6
EXTERIOR WALL
Construction R302.1
Definition R202
Fire-resistance rating R302.1
F
FACEPLATES E4001.11, E4002.4
FACTORY BUILT
Chimneys R1005, M1805
Fireplace stoves R1 005.3
Fireplaces R1 004
FASTENING Table R602.3(1)
FAUCETS P2701
FEEDER
Ampacity E3704.5
Conductor size E3704.1
Feeder neutral load E3704.3
Loads E3704.2
Requirements E3704
FENESTRATION
Definition R202
FINISHES
Flame spread and smoke density R302.9
For ceilings R805
Interior R302.9, R31 5, R702
FIRE-RESISTANT CONSTRUCTION R302
FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEM
Inspections of P2904.8
Sizing of P2904.6
Sprinkler location P2904.1 .1
FIREBLOCKING
Barrier between stories R302.11, R602.8
Chimney R1003.19
Fireplace R1001.12
FIREPLACES Chapter 10
Clearance R1001.11
Corbeling R1 001 .8
Factory-built R1004
Fireblocking R1001.12
Walls R1001.5
FITTING
Definition applied to electrical installations .... E3501
FITTINGS
DWV piping P3002.3
Prohibited joints P3003.2
Water supply P2905.6
FIXTURE UNIT
Drainage, definition R202
Unit valves P2903.9.3
Water supply, definition R202
FIXTURES
Plumbing fixture, definition R202
Plumbing fixture, general Chapter 27
Trap seals P3201 .2
FLAME SPREAD INDEX R302.9, R302.10
FLASHING R703.7.5, R703.8, R903.2, R905
FLEXIBLE CORDS E3909, E4101.3, E4202.2
FLEXIBLE METAL CONDUIT. . . . E3801.4, E3908.8.1
FLOOR FURNACE M1408
FLOORS
Concrete (on ground) R506
Steel framing R505
Treated-wood (on ground) R504
Wood framing R502
FLUE
Area R1003.14, R1003.15
Lining R1003.11, R1003.12
Multiple R1003.13
FOAM PLASTICS R316
FOOD-WASTE GRINDERS P2716
FOOTINGS R403
FOUNDATIONS Chapter 4
Cripple walls R602.9, R602.10.9, R602.11.2
Frost protection R403.1 .4.1
Inspection R109.1.1
Walls R404
FRAME
Inspection R109.1 .4
FREEZE PROTECTION OF PLUMBING .... P2603.6
FUEL-BURNING APPLIANCES
(see APPLIANCE, definition)
Identification Chapter 24
FUEL GAS Chapter 24
FUEL OIL
Oil tanks M2201
Piping, fittings and connections M2202
Pumps and valves M2204
FURNACES
Clearance of warm-air furnaces M1 402.2
Exterior M1401.4
Floor (see Floor Furnace)
Wall (see Wall Furnace)
Warm-air M1402, Chapter 24
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
895
INDEX
FUSES E3705.6
GARAGES R309
GAS
Appliance labeling Chapter 24
GAS PIPING SYSTEM NOT
TO BE USED AS GROUNDING
ELECTRODE Chapter 24
GIRDERS R502.5
GLAZING R308
Aggregate R303.1
Protection of openings R301 .2.1 .2
GRADE
Definition R202
Of lumber R502.1, R602.1, R802.1
Plane, definition R202
Slope of piping, definition R202
GRAY WATER P3009
GROUND
Definition of electrical E3501
Floors (on ground) R504, R506
Joint connection P2905.8
GROUND-FAULT CIRCUIT-
INTERRUPTER PROTECTION E3902, E4203,
E4206, E4207.2, E4208
GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMP M2105
GROUNDED
Definition E3501
GROUNDED CONDUCTOR
Definition E3501
Identification E3407
GROUNDED, EFFECTIVELY
Definition E3501
GROUNDING
Effective grounding path E3611.3
Of equipment E3908, E4205.1
GROUNDING CONDUCTOR
Definition E3501
Equipment E3501 , E3607.3.1 , E3908
GROUNDING ELECTRODE
CONDUCTOR E3607.4
Connection E3607.2, E361 1
Definition E3501
Size E3603.4
GROUNDING ELECTRODE SYSTEM E3608
GROUNDING ELECTRODES E3608, E3608.1
Resistance of E3608
GROUTED MASONRY (see MASONRY) R609
Reinforced R609.3
GUARDED
Definition applied
to electrical equipment E3501
GUARDING OF ENERGIZED PARTS E3404.9
GUARDS R312
Definition R202
GYPSUM
Wallboard R702.3
H
HABITABLE SPACE
Definition R202
HALLWAYS R31 1 .6
HANDRAILS R31 1.7.7, R31 1.8.3
Definition R202
HEADERS
SIP R613.10
Steel R603.6
Wood R602.7
HEARTH R1001.9
Extension R1001.9, R1001.10
HEATERS
Baseboard M1405
Central furnaces M1402
Duct M1407
Heat pumps M1403
Masonry R1002
Pool M2006, Chapter 24
Radiant M1406
Sauna Chapter 24
Unvented G2445
Vented room M1410, Chapter 24
Water Chapter 20
HEATING R303.8
HEATING EQUIPMENT Chapter 14
HEIGHT
Ceiling R305
HOLLOW-UNIT MASONRY
(see MASONRY) R607.2.2.2, R608.1.1.2
Reinforced R609.4
HORIZONTAL
Pipe, definition R202
Vent length M1 803.3.2
HOT TUBS E4201, Appendix G
HOT WATER
Definition R202
Distribution pipe rating P2905.5
Heaters M2005, Chapter 24
HYDROGEN GENERATING
AND REFUELING M1307.4
896
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
INDEX
HYDRONIC HEATING SYSTEMS
Baseboard convectors M2102
Boilers M2001
Expansion tanks M2003
Floor heating systems M2103
Operating and safety controls M2002
Piping systems installation M2101
Water heaters M2005
[
IDENTIFIED
Definition applied to electrical equipment E3501
INDIVIDUAL
Branch circuit, definition E3501
Sewage disposal systems R202, P2602
Water supply and sewage
disposal systems P2602
INLET
To masonry chimneys R1003.16
INSPECTION
Card AE305.3
Excavation for piping P2604.1
Fuel-supply system Chapter 24
Of plumbing system P2503
On site R109.1
INSTALLATION
Existing Appendix J
Of appliances M1307
Of cooling and heating equipment M 1401 .1
Of ducts M 1601 .4
Of flue liners R1003.12
Of plumbing fixtures P2705
Of wall furnaces M1409.3
INSULATION R302.10
INTERIOR
Lath R702.2.3
Other finishes R702.5
Plaster R702.2
Wall covering Chapter 7
INTERMEDIATE METAL CONDUIT, . . .E3801, E3904
INTERRUPTING RATING E3404.2
Definition E3501
J
JOINTS, PIPE
And connections P2905, P3003
Slip P2704.1 , P3005.2.9
JOIST
Bearing R502.6, R606.14.1
JUMPERS
Bonding E3609
JUNCTION BOXES E3905, E4206.9.1
K
KITCHEN
Definition R202
KITCHEN RECEPTACLES E3703.2, E3901
L VENT TERMINATION M1 804.2.4
LABELED
Definition R202
Definition applied to electrical equipment E3501
LABELING
Appliances M1303
Definition R202
LAMPHOLDERS E4003, E4004
LANDINGS R31 1 .3, R31 1 .3.1 ,
R31 1.7.6, R31 1.8.2
LATERAL SUPPORT R502.7, R606.9, R61 0.5.2
LATH
Exterior R703.6.1
Interior R702.2.3
LAUNDRY CIRCUIT E3703.3
LAUNDRY TUBS P2715
LAVATORIES P271 1
Clearances R307
Waste outlets P271 1 .3
LEAD
Bends and traps P3002.4.2
Caulked joints P3003.6.1
Flashing P3002.4.1
LIABILITY R104.8
LIGHT, VENTILATION AND HEATING R303
LIGHTING
Luminaire in clothes closets E4003.12
Luminaire installation E4004
Luminaries E4003, E4004, E4206
LIGHTING OUTLETS
Definition E3501
Required lighting outlets E3903
LINING
Flue R1003.11.R1003.12
LINTEL R606.10, R611.8,
R703.7.3, R1001.7
LIQUID-TIGHT FLEXIBLE
CONDUIT E3801.4, E3908.8.2
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE*
897
INDEX
LISTED
Definition applied to electrical equipment .... E3501
LISTED AND LISTING
Definition applied to building and
mechanical provisions R202
Mechanical appliances M 1302.1
LOAD
Additional R1003.8
Roof R301.6
Seismic risk map Figure R301.2(2)
Snow load map Figure R301 .2(5)
Wind speed map Figure R301 .2(4)
LOADS
Branch circuit loads E3702, E3703.6
Dead load R301 .4
Feeder load E3704.2
Feeder neutral load E3704.3
Horizontal load AE602.1
Live load R301 .5
Service load E3602.2
LOADS, LIVE AND DEAD
Definition R202
LOCATION
Of furnaces M1408.3, M1409.2
LOCATION (DAMP) (DRY) (WET)
Definitions E3501
LUMBER
Grade R502.1, R602.1, R802.1
LUMINAIRE E4004
Clearances E4004.8
M
MACERATING TOILET P2723
MANUFACTURED HOME
Definition R202
Provisions Appendix E
MASONRY
Anchorage R606.1 1
Cavity wall R608
Chases R606.7
General R606
Grouted R609
Hollow unit R202, R607.2.2.2, R608.1 .1 .2
Inspection R109.1.4
Reinforced grouted R609.3
Reinforced hollow unit R609.4
Seismic requirements R606.12
Solid, definition R202
Veneer R703.7
Veneer attachment R703.4
MATERIALS
Alternative R104.1 1
Combustible R202, R1001.11, R1001.12,
R1003.18, R1003.19
For ducts M1601
For fixture accessories P2702
For flue liners R1003.1 1
For fuel-supply systems Chapter 24
For hearth extension R1001 .9
For siding R703.3
Hydronicpipe M2101, M2103, M2104
Plumbing pipe P2905, P3002
MECHANICAL
Inspection R109.1.2
System requirements Chapter 13
MEDIUM PRESSURE FUEL-GAS
PIPING SYSTEM Chapter 24
MEMBRANE
Penetration R302.4.2
Polyethylene R504.2.2, R506.2.3
Water-resistive R703.2
Waterproofing R406.2
METAL
Ducts Chapter 1 6
Roof panels R905.1
Roof shingles R905.4
METAL-CLAD CABLE Table E3701 .2
METHODS
Water distribution pipe sizing Appendix P
MODIFICATIONS R104.10
MOISTURE CONTROL R601 .3
MORTAR
Joints R607.2.1.1
MOTORS
Motor branch circuits E3702.6, E3702.7
MULTIPLE
Appliance venting systems M1 801 .1 1
Flues R1003.13
MULTIWIRE BRANCH CIRCUITS E3701.5
N
NONCOMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL
Definition R202
NONMETALLIC BOXES E3905.3, E3908.16
NONMETALLIC RIGID CONDUIT E3801 .4
NONMETALLIC-SHEATHED
CABLE E3705.4.4, E3801 .4,
E3905.3.1, E3908.8.3
NOTCHING
Electrical E3402.1
898
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
INDEX
For mechanical systems M1308
For plumbing piping P2603.2
Steel joists R505.2.5, R505.3.5,
R804.2.5, R804.3.4
Steel studs R603.2.5, R603.3.4
Wood joists R502.8, R802.7.1
Wood studs R602.6
Wood top plates R602.6.1
OCCUPIED SPACE
Definition R202
OIL
Piping and connections M2202
Supply pumps and valves M2204
Tanks M2201
OPEN-TOP GAS BROILER UNITS M1 505.1
OPENING
Requirements,
combustion air Chapter 17, Chapter 24
Waterproofing of piping penetrations P2606.1
OUTLET
Definition Chapter 24, E3501
OVEN, WALL-MOUNTED
Definition applied to electrical provisions E3501
OVERCURRENT
Definition E3501
OVERCURRENT PROTECTION E3705
OVERCURRENT-PROTECTION RATING . . . E3705.6
OVERLOAD
Definition E3501
P
PANELBOARD
Definition E3501
PANELBOARDS E3706
Clearance and dedicated space E3405.2,
E3405.3
Headroom E3405.7
PARAPETS R307.2.2, R606.2.4
PARTICLEBOARD
Floor R503.3
Walls R605
PERMITS R105
PHOTOVOLTAIC SOLAR ENERGY
SYSTEMS M2302
PIERS R606.6
Masonry R404.1 .9
PIPE
Materials listing Table M2101.1, P2608
Protection P2603
Standards, drain,
waste and vent Table P3002.1(1),
Table P3002. 1(2)
Standards, sewer Table P3002.2
Standards, water supply P2905
PIPING
Connections and materials . . .Table M2101.1, P2905
Drain, waste and vent P3002.1
Fuel-gas size determination Chapter 24
Protection P2603
Sizing methods, water distribution P2903.7
Support M21 01 .9, Chapter 24,
P2605
PLANNING
Building Chapter 3
PLANS R106
PLASTER
Exterior R703.6
Interior R702.2
PLENUM
Definition R202
Definition, electrical installations E3501
PLUMBING
Fixture clearances R307
Fixtures Chapter 27
Inspection R109.1 .2
Materials P2702.2, P2905, P3002
Requirements and definitions R202
System, definition R202
Traps Chapter 32
Vents Chapter 31
PLYWOOD
Application R703.3
Materials, walls R604
POTABLE WATER
Definition R202
PRECAST CONCRETE
Footings R403.4
Foundation material R402.3.1
Foundation walls R404.5
PRESSURE, WATER SUPPLY
Maximum P2903.3.1
Minimum P2903.3
PRIVATE
Sewage disposal system Appendix I
PROHIBITED
Receptors P2706.3
Return air sources M1 602.2
Traps P3201 .5
Valves below grade P2903.9.5
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
899
INDEX
Water closets P2712.1
PROTECTION
Against decay and termites R319, R320
Against radon Appendix F
Of backflow preventers P2902.6
Of ferrous gas piping Chapter 24
Of potable water supply P2902
PURLINS R802.5.1
PURPOSE R101 .3
R
R- VALUE
Definition R202
RACEWAY
Definition E3501
Raceway installations E3904
Raceway seals E3601 .5, E3803.6
Raceways as means of support E3904.4
RADON
Map Appendix F
RAFTERS
Grade of lumber R802.1
Spans R802.5,
Tables R802.5.1(1)-R802.5.1(8)
RAIN TIGHT
Definition applied to electrical
provisions E3501
RAINPROOF
Definition applied to electrical
provisions E3501
RAMPS R311.8
RANGES
Branch circuits for ranges E3702.9
RANGES AND OVENS
Vertical clearance above cooking top M1 901.1
READILY ACCESSIBLE
Definition R202
Definition, electrical installations E3501
RECEPTACLE
Definition E3501
RECEPTACLE OUTLET
Definition E3501
Required outlets E3901
RECEPTACLES
Rating, type and installation E4002
RECEPTORS
Plumbing fixtures and traps Chapter 27
Shower receptor materials P2709.2
Waste P2706
RECESSED LUMINAIRES E4003.5, E4003.12,
E4004.8, E4004.9
REQUIREMENTS
Connections for fuel-burning
appliances Chapter 24
Return air M1602.1
RESISTANCE TO GROUND
Electrodes E3608.4
RESISTANT SIDING MATERIAL (see MATERIALS)
RETURN-AIR LIMITATION M1 602.2
RIDGE BOARD R802.3
RIGID METALLIC CONDUIT E3908
RIGID NONMETALLIC CONDUIT E3801.4
ROOF
Coverings R905
Drainage R903.4
Flashing R703.8, R903.2, R905
Steel framing R804
Wood framing R802
ROOF-CEILING CONSTRUCTION
(see CONSTRUCTION) Chapter 8
Wind uplift R802.1 1 , R804.3.9
ROOFING
Built-up R905.9
Liquid-applied coating R905.15
Modified bitumen R905.1 1
Sprayed polyurethane foam R905.14
Thermoplastic single-ply R905.13
Thermoset single-ply R905.12
ROOM
Heaters, vented M1410
Minimum Sizes R304
s
SANITATION R306
SEISMIC RISK MAP Figure R301 .2(2)
SEPTIC TANK
Definition R202
SERVICE
Definition E3501
SERVICE CABLE
Definition E3501
SERVICE CONDUCTORS
Definition E3501
Drip loops E3605.9.5
Insulation E3605.1
Overload protection E3603.3
Rating of ungrounded
service conductors E3602.1
Size E3603.1
SERVICE DISCONNECT
Location E3601 .6.2
Marking of E3601 .6.1
900
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
INDEX
Maximum number of E3601 .7
Rating of E3602.3
Required E3601 .6
SERVICE DROP
Clearances E3604.1, E3604.2
Definition E3501
Point of attachment E3604.3
SERVICE-ENTRANCE CONDUCTORS,
OVERHEAD SYSTEM
Definition E3501
SERVICE-ENTRANCE CONDUCTORS,
UNDERGOUND SYSTEM
Definition E3501
SERVICE EQUIPMENT
Definition E3501
SERVICE LATERAL
Definition E3501
SERVICE LOAD E3602.2
SERVICE POINT
Definition E3501
SERVICE VOLTAGE RATING E3602.4
SERVICES Chapter 36
SEWAGE
Disposal, private P2602
SEWER, BUILDING
Definition R202
Size P3005.4.2
Testing P2503.4
SHAKES
Wood R702.6, R703.5, R905.8
SHINGLE
Asphalt shingles R905.2
Metal R905.4
Slate R905.6
Wood R905.7
SHOWER
Compartment R307.2
Receptor P2709
Stall dimensions P2708
Walls P2710
SHUTOFF VALVE (see VALVES)
SIDING
Exterior coverings R703
SINKS P2714
SITE
Address R31 9
Preparation R408.5, R504.2, R506.2
SIZE
Of combustion air openings Chapter 17
Of rooms R304
Of trap P3201.7
SIZING METHODS
Water piping P2903.7
SKYLIGHTS R308.6
SLATE SHINGLES R905.6
SMOKE ALARMS R314
SMOKE-DEVELOPED INDEX R302.9, R302.10
SNOW LOAD MAP R301 .2(5)
SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS M2301
SPANS
Steel (allowable) R505.3.2, R804.3.2.1
Wood (allowable) R502.3, R802.5
SPAS E4208
SPLICES E3406.10
SPLICES AND TAPS E3803.4
STACK BOND R606.8
STAIRWAYS R31 1 .7
STANDARDS Chapter 44, Appendix G
STEEL
Fireplace units R1001.5.1
Floor construction R505
Roof-ceiling construction R804
Walls R603
STORM SHELTERS R323
STORY
Definition R202
STOVES
Factory-built fireplace M1414
STRUCTURAL AND PIPING PROTECTION . . .P2603
STRUCTURAL INSULATED PANEL (SIP) R613
STUDS
Wood R602.2, R602.3
Spacing R602.3.1
Steel R603.2, R603.3
SUPPLY
Combustion air Chapter 17, Chapter 24
Fuel systems Chapter 24
Oil supply pumps and valves M2204
Required gas Chapter 24
Return air M1602
Water Chapter 29
SUPPORT
Of decks R502.2.2
Of ducts M1601 .4.3
Of floor joists R502.6, R505.3.2
Of masonry chimneys R1 003.2,
R1 003.3, R1 003.4
Of pipe M21 01 .9, Chapter 24, P2605
SUPPORT REQUIREMENTS
FOR WIRING METHODS E3802.1
SWIMMING POOLS Chapter 42, Appendix G
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
901
INDEX
SWITCHES
Definition E3501
Rating and application E4001
SYSTEMS
Mechanical venting Chapter 18, Chapter 24
Plumbing, drainage, waste
and venting . . . Chapter 25, Chapter 30, Chapter 31
T
TAIL PIECES P2703
TANK
For fuel oil-burning appliances M2201
Septic, definition R202
TEMPERATURE ISOLINES Figure R301.2(1)
TEMPERATURE LIMITATIONS E3705.4
TERMINALS E3406.9
TERMINATION
Of chimneys R1003.9
Of vents (general) M1804.2
TERMITES
Infestation probability map Figure R301.2(6)
Protection R31 8
TEST
For leaks in supply piping Chapter 24
Of building sewers P2503.4
Of plumbing systems P2503
Of shower liner P2503.6
THICKNESS
Of chimney walls R1003.10
TIES
Veneer R703.7.4
TILE
Shingles (clay and concrete) R905.3
TOWNHOUSE
Definition R202
Scope R101.2
Separation R302.2
TRACK LIGHTING E4005
TRAP Chapter 32
Arm, definition R202
TRUSSES
Steel R505.1 .3, R804.3.7
Wood R502.11, R802.10
TYPE OF VENTING
SYSTEMS REQUIRED Chapter 18, Chapter 24
U
C/-FACTOR
Definition .
R202
UNDER FLOOR
Access to furnaces M1 305. 1.4
Plenums M1601.5
Space R408
UNDERGROUND INSTALLATION
REQUIREMENTS
Duct systems M1601.1.2
Electrical cable E3803
Wiring E4103.6
UNVENTED ATTIC ASSEMBLIES R806.4
UTILIZATION EQUIPMENT
Definition E3401
V
VALVES
Backwater P3008
Meter Chapter 24
Oil-supply M2204
Relief, water heater P2803
Shutoff , fuel-gas Chapter 24
Shutoff, fuel-oil M2204.2
Water heaters P2903.9.2
Water supply P2903.9
VAPOR RETARDERS R601 .3
Definition R202
VENEER
Masonry R703.7
VENT
B or BW vent Chapter 24
Definition Chapter 24
Lvent M1 804.2.4, Chapter 24
Plumbing system, definition R202
Termination M1 804.2,
M2203.5, P3103.5
VENTED
Decorative appliances Chapter 24
Floor furnaces M1408
Room heaters M1410
Wall furnaces M1409
VENTILATION
Bathroom and kitchen M1507
For hydrogen systems M1 307.4
Roof R806
Under floor R408.1
Whole house M1 507.3
VENTING (MECHANICAL)
Chimney and vent connectors M1803
Components M1802
General M1801
Required M1801, M2203.4
902
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
INDEX
Systems Chapter 1 8
VENTING (PLUMBING)
Air admittance valves P31 14
Circuit P3110
Combination waste and vent system P31 1 1
Common P3107
Connections and grades P3104
Fixture P3105
Individual P3106
Island fixture P3112
Pipe sizing P31 1 3
Stacks and stack vents P3102
Systems P3101
Terminals P3103
Waste stack P3109
Wet P31 08
VERTICAL
Clearances above cooking top M1901 .1
Pipe, definition R202
VIOLATIONS
And penalties R113
VOLTAGE
Definition E3501
VOLTAGE RATING (SERVICES) E3602.4
VOLTAGE TO GROUND
Definition E3501
VOLTAGES E3404.1
w
WALL FURNACE (see APPLIANCE)
General M1409.1
Installation M1409.3
Location M1409.2
WALLBOARD
Gypsum R702.3
WALLS
Bracing, steel R603.9
Bracing, wood R602.10
Construction Chapter 6
Covering Chapter 7
Cripple R602.9
Deflection R301 .7
Exterior covering R703
Finishes R302.9, R702
Fireplace R1001.5
Foundation R404
Insulating concrete form R611.3,
R611.4, R611.5.3
Steel framing R603
Structural insulated panels (SIP) R613
Thickness, masonry chimneys R1003.10
Wood framing R602
WARM-AIR FURNACES M1402
Access to M1401.2
Clearance from M1402.2
WASTE
Continuous, definition R202
WATER
Distribution system, definition R202
Heater, definition R202
Heaters Chapter 20, Chapter 24, Chapter 28
Individual supply and sewage disposal P2602
Piping sizing methods P2903
Supply and distribution Chapter 29
Supply system, definition R202
WATER CLOSET R306.1
WATER TIGHT
Definition applied to electrical provisions E3501
WATERPROOFING
And dampproofing R406
Of openings through roofs and walls P2606
WEATHERPROOF
Definition applied to electrical provisions E3501
WHIRLPOOL BATHTUBS P2720
WIND SPEED MAP Figure R301 .2(4)
WINDOW R612
Fall prevention R312.2
Opening limiting devices R31 2.2.2
WIRING METHODS Chapter 37
WOOD
Floor construction R502
Foundation walls R404.2
Roof-ceiling construction R802
Shakes R905.8
Shingles R905.7
Trusses R502.11, R802.10
Walls R602
WORKING SPACE E3606.2
Around electrical equipment E3405.1, E3405.2
WORKMANSHIP, PLUMBING P2607
YARD
Definition.
R202
2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE®
903
904 2012 INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE 8
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