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 Building
Codes
Dealing with building codes can be a major hurdle for those who want
to build with natural materials, especially if there is anything experimental
about the design concept or building technology. I have rassled with this
issue many times in my life. I have ignored the local building authorities
and either been caught or felt deceptive. I have complied with local authroities
and been forced to do things that I considered either of questionable
value or in opposition to my intentions. Occasionally I have been glad
that the code was there to point out a safe approach to some building
problem. So I approach the issue of building codes with very mixed emotions.
Building codes tend to be extremely specific about what materials may
be used where and in what way. Little is really left to the discretion
of the builder. Sure, design elements can vary, but they all must fit
within certain parameters that regulate every aspect of building, from
the nature of the foundation, to the size and placement of windows, to
what materials may be used to create the shell. The Uniform Building Code
does provide for the discretion of the inspector to allow different interpretations
of the code, if he feels that the intent of the code is met. In reality
this is rarely done, because there is a disincentive: anything that doesn't
come straight from "the book" could possibly come back to haunt him. His
supervisor may not like it, or if there were a failure at some point,
somebody might try to hold him liable. Besides, people who are attracted
to be inspectors tend to fit the profile of a bureaucrat. This degree
of micro-management can easily squelch innovation in building technologies.innovation
which is vital to evolving what I would call sustainable architecture.
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This wonderful example of an alternative home
would not meet UBC standards. The straw bale walls are resting
on old tires, the straw bale tower is load bearing and most of
the lumber and poles that frame the house are not graded.
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The specifications of the UBC are derived from historical building habits,
which currently means primarily the use of wood framing and highly industrial
materials, such as steel and concrete. Using such natural materials as
straw bales, cordwood, adobe etc. if allowed at all, must fit within the
accepted scope of the code. Usually this means such materials may be used
as "infill", but cannot be used structurally to support any weight of
the building. We obviously need to come up with more earth-friendly
ways of building than what the UBC requires. Our forests cannot sustain
continued decimation, our air cannot accommodate continued industrial
pollution, and people need to be able to afford adequate housing. The
requirements of the UBC add up to a lot of money because many simple,
effective means of construction (such as rubble trench foundations) are
not allowed, and the use of used or ungraded lumber is not allowed, which
means going to the store and buying lots of stuff.
So what is the driving force behind instituting building codes? The
usual response to this is SAFETY and HEALTH; without the codes, people
will build unsafe houses. I think that primarily the driving force behind
the codes are certain industries that want to protect their investments,
and are afraid that without the codes their investments may not be secure.
It's FEAR. I'm talking about banks that loan on mortgages, insurance companies
that provide homeowner's insurance, real estate companies that sell and
resell houses, and manufactures of industrial building products that rely
on business as usual. They all want to be assured that the house won't
fall down or burn to the ground. The other industry that benefits from
the UBC (and the plumbing and electrical codes) are the contractors and
subcontractors who do the work. The codes have become such an arcane maze
of requirements that the average homeowner who might do the work himself
is baffled and bewildered by them. So the professionals get more work,
because they do it all the time; they know what the inspector will allow.
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This housing development is an example of the
uniformity that the UBC promotes.
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The thing is, we ALL want assurance that our houses are safe. That's
why we go to such trouble to build safely. If you are going to live in
something, you find out what works and what doesn't. Building codes are
more likely to insure uniformity than safety. Much detail in the UBC is
devoted to mitigating against potential fires. This is good, because wood
frame houses are probably the most dangerous fire traps ever conceived.
They provide all of the necessary ingredients for a great blaze: small
dimensional lumber spaced in vertical and horizontal boxes, with lots
of air provided on most sides. No wonder the codes try to give the fire
department a few extra minutes to put out the fire! Most of the alternative
building that I have seen is far safer on this score: straw bales, adobe,
earthbags, rammed earth, and cob do not promote combustion.
The agency that created the UBC is the International Conference of Building
Officials (ICBO), a non-profit organization. Over the last few years they
have gotten together with several other similar organizations and come
up with a new set of building codes that they are promulgating. These
new codes are called the 2000 International Codes, and are intended for
use around the world. I find this concept especially disconcerting in
view of the fact that vernacular building has been under pressure from
"modern" methods for some time and we could lose much valuable knowledge
if new codes replace old ways. Also the issues around sustainability are
a global concern.
I have a proposal that could satisfy everybody's concerns. Why not create
a certification process for building new homes according to codes that are voluntary?
This could be administered either by the city, county, or by a private
entity. Those builders who want their buildings to be certified (whether
to satisfy the needs of banks, insurers, realtors or their own concerns)
could avail themselves of this service, for a fee to cover the cost of
administration and inspection. Home buyers who wanted this certification
could only consider homes that have it, and would perhaps be willing to
pay a little more for it. Those people who see no need for the certification
would not be coerced into it, and would take responsibility for making
their own homes safe. This would allow flexibility for the experimentation
that is essential in creating earth-friendly ways of building. New building
technologies could eventually find their way into the codes so that everybody
could benefit from them. It doesn't have to be "all or nothing," where
we either have no codes, or everybody must comply with them. A cooperative
approach seems like the best solution to me.
In 2008
the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) in conjunction with the International Code Council (ICC) developed a new National Green Building Standard. This has also been approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), which is a first for this organization. This new Green Home Building Standard is similar to the LEED process for evaluating and certifying homes, but is probably less costly to perform. It does rely on independent inspections to verify claims that are made. These standards will help home buyers realize just how green the claims might be for any given home they might be considering to purchase.
I would say that this new standard for evaluating the "greeness" of buildings is a giant step in the right direction. Virtually all of the basic criteria for building green that I have been advocating for years at this website have been recognized to some extent. The next step is to begin incorporating these green criteria into the actual codes.
We have reached a critical point in the United States, where there are
very few places left without mandatory building codes. We need to express
our concerns to those making the decisions through letters, phone calls
or attending any meetings that are scheduled around this issue. Our future
is at stake. |
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No Building Codes:
A Guide to States with No Building Codes is an e-book by Terry Herb, 2010. Owner-builders across the United States are frustrated with the vast array of building codes adopted by so many states. Thankfully, there are still states left where you can build the kind of home you want without dealing with inspections and fees.
You just have to do it in the right location--where building codes don't exist.
Why pay thousands of dollars to architects for engineered plans because the building code officials tell you they need them; but you don't need them?
There is a simple solution for the pioneers and out-of-the-box thinkers of today who want to swing a hammer without the hot breath of a code inspector on their necks. This downloadable e-book contains: An outline map of each of the 50 states with counties outlined as well; current code information for every state; for states with no building code, insightful commentary and information is provided to steer you in the right direction to determine if a state is right for you; researched and validated information; web links to help you learn more about the states that may interest you.
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2012 International Residential Code for One- and Two- Family Dwellings, International Code Council, 2011. This comprehensive code for homebuilding combines building, plumbing, mechanical, fuel gas, energy, and electrical provisions into a single resource. The 2012 International Residential Code For One- and Two- Family Dwellings Softbound Version uses these provisions to provide detailed insight into the construction of one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses up to three stories high. Using foundational principles that facilitate the use of new materials and building designs to guide the content, this reference guide also establishes minimum regulations using prescriptive provisions.
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Significant Changes to the International Residential Code 2012 Edition, Steve Van Note, 2011. In the fast-paced world of residential construction and coding, you want to be armed with a solid understanding of the latest updates to the INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE. Fully achieving this requires gaining a clear knowledge of the code itself, but also precisely what areas have been updated, how they have been revised, and the rationale behind those changes. Significant Changes to the International Residential Code 2012 Edition provides just that- all in a single, easy-to use resource! The book focuses on provisions that have special significance, are utilized frequently, or have had a change in application between the 2009 and 2012 editions of the IRC. Each change is accompanied by a photograph, a real-world application example, or an illustration to assist and enhance readers' understanding. With a summary and discussion of the impact of these changes, this guide's coverage is complete, making it the perfect tool for transitioning from the 2009 IRC to the new 2012 edition.
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2012 International Existing Building Code, International Code Council, 2011. Learn the requirements needed to instill safety and stability in existing and historic buildings - without requiring full compliance with the new construction requirements in the building code. The 2012 INTERNATIONAL EXISTING BUILDING CODE SOFTBOUND VERSION contains requirements intended to encourage the use and reuse of existing buildings by covering important topics such as repairs, alterations, additions, and changes of occupancy, making this an ideal addition to a user's code products.
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Going Green with the International Residential Code by Scott Caufield, 2010.This "code-consultant" takes green building concepts one step further and addresses them as they specifically relate to building codes, and in particular, how they relate to the International Residential Code (IRC). Because the code books themselves do not directly address green construction issues, this book will help the reader make green decisions about construction methods and materials while staying code compliant. Coverage begins with a Building Code Primer that explores basic permitting and regulatory processes. This fundamental knowledge sets the stage for readers to be better able to successfully incorporate green principles into construction projects and avoid costly mistakes that can occur when key processes are not established and followed beforehand. The book then moves to a review of the IRC, chapter-by-chapter, identifying areas where provisions of the code will affect a green construction project and where in a project there are green options, as well. Using tried-and-true real-life examples of green construction techniques throughout, this is the perfect guide to understanding building codes in today's quest to go green.
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Cal Green Reference Guide: 2010 California Green Building Standards Code, by Edward Cornejo, 2010. Cal Green's intent is to encourage more sustainable and environmentally friendly building practices for the health and safety of our future.
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2010 California Green Building Standards Code, Title 24 Part 11 (CALGreen) International Code Council, 2010.
The nation's first mandatory green building code is here. Stay ahead of the game by knowing it! The California Green Building Standards Code (CGBSC), also referred to as CALGreen, contains regulations for energy efficiency, water efficiency and conservation, material conservation and resource efficiency, environmental quality, and more. It includes mandatory provisions for a variety of types of buildings, from commercial and low-rise residential to public schools. And the code's valuable appendices include voluntary provisions for all of these occupancies. Logically organized with residential and non-residential provisions in separate chapters, the book is informative, thorough, and most of all, easy to use.
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Building Code Basics: Residential: Based on 2009 International Residential Code, International Code Council, 2009.
Thist book departs from traditional code books by using non-code language, detailed illustrations, and an emphasis on practical information to give readers a solid, working knowledge of critical code applications. Part of Building Code Basics, a series dedicated to providing high-quality, technically accurate, simplified code texts for anyone seeking greater understanding of the workings of the I-Codes; this installment focuses on the basics of the residential code. Topic coverage follows the logical order of construction, beginning with site work and foundations, and ending with fire- and life-safety and the environmental requirements of a finished building. These code requirements are introduced using non-intimidating language and an easy-to-understand writing style, facilitating learning and comprehension. |
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2009 International Building Code Need to Know: The 20% of the Code You Need 80% of the Time by R. Woodson, 2009. This is an essential, hands-on guide for builders, developers, carpenters, and installers. You will have the most commonly used ICC (International Code Council) building information at your fingertips. 2009 International Building Code Need To Know features easy-to-understand explanations and interpretations, calculations and formulas, and plenty of visual references such as maps, charts, and handy tables. This book helps you save time and money, reduce errors, stay in compliance, and increase job site safety.
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Architectural Building Codes: A Graphic Reference by James G. Scott, 2008.
This book slices through the technical, legal, and bureaucratic jargon of building codes with a direct, engaging style. Beginning with the assumption that building codes are by nature complex and difficult to understand, Mr. Scott provides both the theoretical principles and practical grounding all architectural professionals need to efficiently incorporate code regulations into their designs. The author bridges the gap between theory and application, turning the arcane, impenetrable rules of building codes into usable concepts. The material is cogently organized from general to specific ideas, leading the reader on a logical progression through the maze of code regulation. Comprehensive in scope, this book covers building codes with a refreshingly broad perspective. Architectural Building Codes is a complete user's guide that covers a wide range of topics.
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Building Construction Illustrated by Francis D. K. Ching, 2008.
The classic visual guide to the basics of building construction, now with the most current information.
Its rich and comprehensive approach clearly presents all of the basic concepts underlying building construction and equips readers with useful guidelines for approaching virtually any new materials or techniques they may encounter. Laying out the material and structural choices available, it provides a full under-standing of how these choices affect a building's form and dimensions. Complete with more than 1,000 illustrations, the book moves through each of the key stages of the design process, from site selection to building components, mechanical systems, and finishes. Updated and revised to include the latest knowledge on sustainability, incorporation of building systems, and use of new materials. Reflects the most current building codes and CSI Master Format numbering scheme.
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Building Construction Handbook, Seventh Edition by Roy Chudley, Roger Greeno, 2008.
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Growing Greener: Putting Conservation into Local Plans & Ordinances by Randall Arendt, 1999. This is an illustrated workbook that presents a new look at designing subdivisions while preseveing green space networks. The author offers a three-pronged strategy for shaping growth around a community's special natural and cultural features, demonstrating ways of establishing or identifying the municipal comprehensive plan, seeing oprdinance, and subdivision ordinance to include a strong conservation focus. It includes eleven case studies of actual conservation development in nine states and two exercises suitable for group participation.
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The Codes Guidebook for Interiors, by Sharon Koomen Harmon, 2011.
The Codes Guidebook for Interiors, Fifth Edition features jargon-free explanations of all the codes and standards of concern to designers and architects, including performance codes, fire codes, building and finish standards, energy codes, and Americans with Disabilities standards. The book uses an easy-to-navigate format that is geared towards the code process as a whole, to take readers step-by-step through the codes relevant at each stage in the design process. Dozens of examples and a greatly enhanced set of illustrations, show how codes apply to real-world projects.
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2009 International Energy Conservation Code (Softcover Version), 2009. For the most current information on energy conservation code requirements, refer to the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code. This highly beneficial resource fosters energy conservation through efficiency in envelope design, mechanical systems, lighting systems, and through the use of new materials and techniques. With this comprehensive and cutting-edge coverage, it is a critical component of any code library.
Home Builders' Jobsite Codes: A Pocket Guide to the 2009 International Residential Code by National Association Of Home Builders, 2010. A pocket Guide to the 2009 International Residential Code.
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Code Check Complete: An Illustrated Guide to Building, Plumbing, Mechanical, and Electrical Codes by Redwood Kardon , Michael Casey, Douglas Hansen, 2007. Taunton's Code Check series is widely recognized as the most reliable and up-to-date code reference available. Now, the thousands of builders, remodelers, and inspectors who have relied on their Code Checks for accuracy and thoroughness will delight in this handsome new edition that combines all the codes into a single, lay-flat volume. This comprehensive manual spotlights the safety issues behind all the codes. Up-to-date and featuring more than 400 illustrations, Code Check Complete is cross-referenced to the International Residential Code, Uniform Plumbing Code, Uniform Mechanical Code, and the National Electrical Code. It is the only resource any builder or inspector needs to be completely up to code.
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Illustrated 2009 Building Codes Handbook by Terry Patterson, 2009. Updated to reflect the changes in the International Code Council 2009 International Building Code, this illustrated guide makes it easy to understand and apply complex Code requirements and achieve compliance. Designed to save you time and money, this detailed reference transforms difficult paragraphs into simple lists and converts complicated equations into accessible tables. Ready-to-use answers and practical case studies help you get construction jobs done right, on time, and up to the requirements of the 2009 Code. The Illustrated 2009 Building Code Handbook is also an invaluable study guide for the design portion of the architectural licensing examination.
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Building Codes Illustrated: A Guide to Understanding the 2009 International Building Code by Francis D. Ching, 2009.
An easy-to-use, illustrated guide to the 2009 edition of the International Building Code. As the U.S. building industry adapts the international standards, architects and other building professionals need a clear, practical guide to the International Building Code. Marrying the graphic skills of bestselling author Frank Ching with the code expertise of Steven Winkel, FAIA, this invaluable reference provides an easy-to-understand interpretation in both words and illustrations of the portions of the building code that are most relevant for the architect. Highlighting major changes between the new code and previous model building codes, this book will help architects understand how this code change will affect their practice.
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National Electrical Code Costbook 2010, NFPA and BNi Building News.
Estimating even small projects can sometimes take countless hours, but this Costbook makes it so easy to find exactly what you need that you'll be able to estimate even large jobs with amazing speed. It's a great way to quickly check prices. From residential remodeling to new commercial construction, this new Costbook has it all. Nowhere else will you find such a detailed coverage of wireways, conduit, boxes, conductors, cabling, utility poles and fittings, transformers, safety switches, panelboards and much more. All data is arranged in the CSI MasterFormat to ensure you find exactly what you need and that nothing gets overlooked or left to chance.
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Black & Decker The Complete Guide to Wiring, 5th Edition, with DVD: Current with 2011-2013 Electrical Codes, 2011.
The Complete Guide to Wiring has been America's very best-selling consumer wiring book for more than a decade, with previous editions selling more than 1 million copies. This fifth edition has been updated to comply with 2011-2013 Electrical Codes. It also includes an all new Home Automation chapter, as well as major revisions to lighting and ventilation equipment hookups and new material on working with conduit and raceways.
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Code Check Electrical Fifth Edition: An Illustrated Guide to Wirinng a Safe House by Michael Casey , Redwood Kardon , Douglas Hansen, 2008. Code Check Electrical, 5th edition , outlines the principles behind the various accepted electrical codes and provides information on the code requirements for all types of residential electrical systems. It is cross-referenced to the most recent National Electrical Code.
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McGraw-Hill National Electrical Code 2008 Handbook by Brian J. McPartland , Joseph F. McPartland, 2008. Completely revised and updated to reflect all 2008 Code changes, McGraw-Hill's National Electrical Code® 2008 Handbook, 26th Edition provides the essential put-the-code-into-practice guidance that users require in the field and in the office. An industry bestseller for over 85 years, this classic handbook helps decipher and interpret new Code changes and difficult and controversial rules. With the new addition of Frederic P. Hartwell to the author team, this time-tested reference has been rigorously revised and rewritten to cover all the information needed to meet 2008 Code requirements. Covering every topic in the 2008 Code, the coverage ranges from grounded conductors, branch circuits, feeders, surge arresters, wiring methods, cables, conduits, and switches.to hazardous locations, emergency systems, communications circuits, and product safety standards.
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2009 International Plumbing Code: Softcover Version International Code Council, 2009.
With an emphasis on design and installation for optimum performance, this sets forth established requirements for plumbing systems. This important reference guide includes provisions for fixtures, piping, fittings, and devices, as well as design and installation methods for water supply, sanitary drainage, and storm drainage. New to the 2009 edition of the code is the inclusion of the 2009 International Private Sewage Disposal Code, a companion guide that offers additional provisions for the design, installation, and inspection of private sewage disposal systems. Using both prescriptive- and performance-related specifications, this code provides comprehensive minimum regulations for a variety of plumbing facilities, facilitating the design and acceptance of new and innovative products, materials, and systems.
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Code Check Plumbing Third Edition: An Illustrated Guide to the Plumbing Codes by Michael Casey , Redwood Kardon , Douglas Hansen, 2006. Providing necessary details on how to avoid common plumbing code violations, this indispensable and easy-to-use flip guide emphasizes the safety principles that underlie both the new International Plumbing Code and the standard International Code and Building Organization system. Completely updated to reflect current requirements, the handy guide is a valuable resource for all professional builders, inspectors, and homeowners.
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2009 International Plumbing Codes Handbook by R. Dodge Woodson, 2009. Fully updated to reflect the changes in the International Code Council 2009 International Plumbing Code, this authoritative volume follows the IPC chapter by chapter. Master plumber, master gasfitter, and bestselling author R. Dodge Woodson puts the International Plumbing Code and the Private Sewage Disposal Code into plain English for easy use on the job. Woodson's ready-to-use answers help you get plumbing jobs done right, on time, and up to the standards of the 2009 codes.
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Building Code Requirements & Specifications for Masonry Structures by
The Masonry Society, 2008.
This code covers the design and construction of masonry structures. It is written in such form that it may be adopted by reference in a legally adopted building code. Among the subjects covered are: definitions, contract documents, quality assurance, materials, placement of embedded items, analysis and design, strength and serviceability, flexural and axial loads, shear, details and development of reinforcement, walls, columns, pilasters, beams and lintels, seismic design requirements, glass unit masonry, and veneers. An empirical design method applicable to buildings meeting specific location and construction criteria are also included.
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2009 International Mechanical Code: Softcover Version, International Code Council, 2009.
Designed to provide comprehensive regulations for mechanical systems and equipment, it includes coverage of HVAC, exhaust systems, chimneys and vents, ducts, appliances, boilers, water heaters, refrigerators, hydronic piping, and solar systems. This valuable reference uses prescriptive- and performance- related provisions to establish minimum regulations for a variety of systems.
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Significant Changes to the International Fire Code 2012 Edition, by Scott Stookey, 2011. With one easy-to-use resource, discover all the information you need to understand the most critical updates to the 2012 International Fire Code, the impact of those changes, and their origins. SIGNIFICANT CHANGES TO THE 2012 INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE analyzes approximately 90 new or revised provisions in the 2012 IFC. These requirements cover a broad range of subjects, including construction requirements for ambulatory health care occupancies, emergency responder radio coverage, fire protection system requirements for educational occupancies, fire service access elevators, building means of egress, hazardous materials, and more. Each change analysis contains the affected code sections and includes information to help identify if the text is new language, a modification of existing language, or if text has been deleted. The changes are also listed alongside illustrations or concrete examples, in an effort to bring the technical jargon of the code into a real-world setting. The book's attention to detail, its logical organization, and its thorough yet concise coverage all make it an ideal tool for transitioning from the 2009 IFC to the new 2012 edition.
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