*
Hey Gang!
I’m looking for a reference book that de-codes the code to a certain degree. We build/remodel and have relied on….well…information from others to get it right. Like what the drawings say. We’re in the NE so BOCA would be a good start or the Nat Building Code. I’ve seen the “code check” flip cards but feel they may not be comprehensive enough. I’d buy the whole code book, however I don’t want all the excess data for non-related stuff we don’t do—like plumbing. Here is a sample question I struggled to answer: Do I need basement windows? What size? Of course we put windows in because I think it’s right–we’re not building a dungeon–but could not find basement egress. We are building high quality stuff and this is more an education effort than a “what’s the least i have to do?” trip.
So there it is. I’m greatful for any advice. Wise Cracks Too!
Replies
*
Jack, here in Massachusetts to be a licensed builder you have to take a test, which is essentially an open-book test to see if you can follow the code book. It's not that easy a test, but there are courses offered to prepare you for it. The courses end up being an introduction to understanding the code book. SO, what I'm trying to say is if your state requires it, take a class and take the test. I found the whole experience interesting and enlightening. Our book does not include electrical or plumbing, but it's still pretty thick.
*Ours in LA doesn't include electrical or plumbing, and it's three looseleaf volumes, one of which is all cross references to the other two. It's a mess.-- J.S.
*Why do they i alwaysreference a table that is on another page? Joe H
*Code books are designed to be enacted as laws. Consequently, they are written so as to appeal to lawyers, statesmen and other crooks. They attempt to codify the laws of nature and physics thus defying common sense. Thus, for instance, the National Electric Code refers to "Romex" as "Non-metalic sheathed cable" and so on. Anything to obscure meaning. - Peter
*have you checked with your local building department for a de-coder ring ? Actually our building department has a reference book , that has an address for the book and it is a carpenter friendly "code book".written by and photographed by a builder, It has pictures and good expalnaitons and of course a disclaimer. It does not go into plumbing or electrical other then how they might affect framing. A lot of it was general stuff and did not go into spans etc, but did answer questions like yours. I have not bought one but looked through it the other day while waiting to get a permit.It was pretty specific to and written for our location( Oregon) but maybe someone else has done that in your area. Other then that I am pretty sure that it depends on how the basement is used and usually they want at least one egress size window ( or door) per floor level. Of course one egress size window per bedroom with a approved sill height or perment step of some kind to get out the window such as a built in bench etc.
*Thanks Guys.This is a start. Here in PA you don't need a license to be a contractor. It's sad to see houses built by such un-educated people. Now I'm not advicating an exam for every level of the trade, but the super structure and such should be built by folks with a little education towards good and better. When the crappy guys do it cheap, it makes us good guys look that much more expensive.Actually, I'm a specialty builder (timber, stone,Straw bale) and seeking knowledge to avoid "duhs" from the inspectors. So I can say...see here Chapter 1165, page, 987, paragraph 27 line 6, word 15....I can do this with something other than a 2x4.We are getting more interest from areas where there are inspectors for everything and I want to be ready.I'll keep my ears open.
*Check this month's FH--there is a writeup about the new builder-friendly code for residential construction [IRC] that is being enacted nationwide, already in 28 states I believe I read.Darn thing even has pictures and drawings that make sense!
*Peter,Romex is a tradename of the Rome Wire & Cable Co. Would you want the code to tell you who to buy your wire from? If you really want a difficult code to follow try the NFPA 72 Fire Alarm code.
*How about Carpenters that speak Code Book instead. Seems to me that's part of the game, being able to read.Gabe
*
Hey Gang!
I'm looking for a reference book that de-codes the code to a certain degree. We build/remodel and have relied on....well...information from others to get it right. Like what the drawings say. We're in the NE so BOCA would be a good start or the Nat Building Code. I've seen the "code check" flip cards but feel they may not be comprehensive enough. I'd buy the whole code book, however I don't want all the excess data for non-related stuff we don't do---like plumbing. Here is a sample question I struggled to answer: Do I need basement windows? What size? Of course we put windows in because I think it's right--we're not building a dungeon--but could not find basement egress. We are building high quality stuff and this is more an education effort than a "what's the least i have to do?" trip.
So there it is. I'm greatful for any advice. Wise Cracks Too!