Is there a required attic live load in IBC 2015 for Commercial Construction?

[Ron247]

Is there a required attic live load for commercial (not residential) attics in the 2015 IBC (table 1607.1). I have never found one but have always used 10 psf to 20 psf depending on roof pitch. These values are residential.

I was wondering what everyone else does for commercial attic live load. I do not see how I can use 0 psf just because the code never cites a value.

Also, Item #7 in the table is a "cornice" with a required 60 psf. I have never noticed this before but do not recall ever needing it. They do define the word cornice in the Definitions chapter but do not give any examples of a cornice. Does anyone have examples of a cornice you have been involved with and used that 60 psf?

 

[JLNJ]

I'd look to ASCE 7-16's "Storage Areas Above Ceilings" and use 20 psf.

 

[r13]

The code specified floor loads are based on the usage of the floor spaces, the code name (office, warehouse..) of each case is only for the ease of using the code. The actual use and interpretation of the space is up to you then. If you have no intend for the attic to be used for any purpose, I think you can seal it up tightly with zero live load in design. But will the unoccupied condition hold forever?

 

[Ron247]

I feel it will eventually be used for something since it is tall enough. I designed it for 20 psf but as the posts mentions, I have never found anything in the code for attics in commercial buildings.

 

[r13]

Attic - the awkwardly shaped space hasn't prevent people from utilizing it in many ways - storage space, bedroom, office...