Construction Type Banned (Almost)

[RareBugTX]

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.

 

[PicoStruc]

Check local FAQ as this one

http://www.cityofkeller.com/index.aspx?page=1002

 

[concretemasonry]

Not uncommon for local jurisdictions to impose local requirements to a model or state adopted code as long as it is not less restrictive. Very often, there are local needs based on geography, weather, seismic, fire requirement, etc. because the model codes are just minimal standards. It entirely legal and some states even have regional requirements if they are more restrictive. -
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.

 

[msquared48]

Wildfire area?

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering

 

[TXStructural]

That is a veneer/appearance restriction. The city council and the author did not understand the issue. I am not familiar with this particular rule, but many Texas cities do that. If you call the building official and ask, thy will certainly clarify. If it was wildfire, it would not be 75% on exterior and 100% on street side.

 

[JAE]

I think they are talking about veneer and exterior aesthetics. You can still frame the building in wood - just have exterior masonry to the percent required.