SteelPE
Structural
- Mar 9, 2006
- 2,765
I have a project where an architect is making some changes to an existing building. Part of the existing changes include removing portions of an existing load bearing masonry (unknown reinforcing if any) wall together with the addition of a parapet. The jurisdiction is in a current code change to the IBC 2009. I have been asked to evaluate this existing building in accordance with the new code. The new code change completely deletes chapter 34 from the IBC 2009 in favor of the International Existing Building Code 2009 (IEBC 2009).
The structural requirements with regards to the parapet are straight forward. However, I am a little confused with regards to the existing masonry wall. Since the wall is load bearing and no other form of LFRS is known I would assume that the existing wall is a shear wall. Under the prescriptive compliance method it appears that if I modify an existing LFRS element by reducing it’s capacity I then would have to comply with section 101.5.4.1.
Is this interpretation correct?
Also, Section 101.5.4 states that an evaluation and design of the existing elements must be based upon the procedures specified in the International Building Code, ASCE 31 or ASCE 41. Where in the IBC can I find the evaluation procedures?
The structural requirements with regards to the parapet are straight forward. However, I am a little confused with regards to the existing masonry wall. Since the wall is load bearing and no other form of LFRS is known I would assume that the existing wall is a shear wall. Under the prescriptive compliance method it appears that if I modify an existing LFRS element by reducing it’s capacity I then would have to comply with section 101.5.4.1.
Is this interpretation correct?
Also, Section 101.5.4 states that an evaluation and design of the existing elements must be based upon the procedures specified in the International Building Code, ASCE 31 or ASCE 41. Where in the IBC can I find the evaluation procedures?