Building Codes With SketchHaus

Property Setbacks:

Property setbacks are restrictions that prevent a homeowner from building a structure too close to a neighbor’s property. Setbacks establish a certain distance from a property boundary in which building is prohibited. To build over a property’s setback lines, you will need to apply for a zoning variance, which is an exception to a setback granted on a case-by-case basis by the local government.

Windows in Bedrooms:

International Building Code advises that every bedroom has at least one window. The window itself must have a width of at least 20 inches and a height of at least 24 inches with an opening no higher than 44 inches from the floor.

Egresses/Hallways:

An egress is an exit point from an occupied area within a building. Hallways are an example of an egress. A hallway should have a minimum width of 3 feet and a minimum height of 7 feet 8 inches.

Kitchen:

Most houses normally only contain one kitchen. To be considered a full kitchen, it must contain a sink, stove, and refrigerator.

Roofs:

All roofs must have a slope to them in order for run-off to flow properly. A sloped roof prevents moisture from pooling which protects from mold and water damage.

Tempered Glass:

Tempered glass is stronger than regular glass through a process of heating and cooling. When it shatters, it will break into small pieces instead of large shards, making it safer than regular glass. Tempered glass is most commonly used in areas easier for slips and falls to occur. Any glass within 24 inches of a doorway or less than 60 inches above the walking surface must be tempered.

GFCI Outlets:

GFCI outlets are specially made for areas in which water could be present. They are mini circuits able to cut their power if electricity is detected going where it shouldn’t. These types of outlets prevent electrical shocks.

Stair Dimensions:

A stair riser is the vertical element of a stair, while the stair tread is the horizontal element of a stair that serves as the walking surface. Building codes state that the stair rise height should not be more than 7 feet and 3/4 inches. The codes also state that the tread depth should not be less than 10 inches. When it comes to designing stairs, leave it up to us architects to keep them up to code!