Construction Type Banned (Almost)
Construction Type Banned (Almost)
(OP)
Hi all:
I would like to know if you have ever seen a code limitation like this. In a Texas suburb of Austin, the local jurisdiction has adopted IRC 2012 as the code for new residential construction. I am designing a 5000 sf home and upon doing my code analysis came across the following. "All new residential construction should have exterior walls made of at least 75% masonry. Exterior walls facing the street should be made of 100% masonry". Have you guys seen anything like this before? This is pretty much forbidding frame construction and all intricacies of IRC regarding construction types is useless.
I would like to know if you have ever seen a code limitation like this. In a Texas suburb of Austin, the local jurisdiction has adopted IRC 2012 as the code for new residential construction. I am designing a 5000 sf home and upon doing my code analysis came across the following. "All new residential construction should have exterior walls made of at least 75% masonry. Exterior walls facing the street should be made of 100% masonry". Have you guys seen anything like this before? This is pretty much forbidding frame construction and all intricacies of IRC regarding construction types is useless.






RE: Construction Type Banned (Almost)
http://www.cityofkeller.com/index.aspx?page=1002
RE: Construction Type Banned (Almost)
Check local requirements.
Often, some requirements get adopted into into the local requirements somewhat incorrectly when the may be local zoning covenants, but fire requirements and parking are included since they may be due the requirements for legally platting a subdivision layout. This also includes roofing materials since resistance and accessibility are critical.
The use of exposed materials is usually not a STRUCTURAL requirement, but is more aesthetic and should have been in the zoning and architectural portion unless it is related to fire. - Wild fires are one common concern because protection is very difficult for combustible exterior materials. The question can be posed, but not likely to be avoided unless there are substantial arguments for doing so.
Dick
Engineer and international traveler interested in construction techniques, problems and proper design.
RE: Construction Type Banned (Almost)
Mike McCann
MMC Engineering
RE: Construction Type Banned (Almost)
RE: Construction Type Banned (Almost)