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Even basic deck building construction techniques involving joist spans, post size and loads, beam sizes and spans between deck posts, decking board dimensions, height of railings and load capacity are all discussed in the building code. However, there are often local variations because of different climates and material preferences. The final authority that you should rely on is the local building code that pertains to your area. The best place to get a copy is to visit your local city building department - even speak to an inspector if you prefer. Important Deck Building Code IssuesThe main areas of decks that the building code speaks directly about are railings, glass railing panels, stairs, treads, stair rails, handrails, foundations, covenants and easements, setbacks and variances. I will discuss each topic and try to cover as many of the keys points as possible. |
For height, keep it simple and think of it this way...
See a simplified image of deck railing
building code requirements for height...
For loads, guardrails must withstand...
See a simplified image of deck railing building code loads for vertical and horizontal forces...
This is a general guide only. Go to your local city building department
to confirm the exac building code requirements in your local area.
Glass must be tempered safety glass so that if it breaks, it breaks into tiny non-shard like pieces.
Width
At least 35 between wall faces or guardrails or a protruding hand rail
Unit Rise and Unit Run
Unit rise and run refer to the overall vertical and horizontal change between each stair tread not the actual tread size.
Stringers
The building code specifies that wood stringers meet minimum sizes for obvious reasons. Here is a list of the key points.
Check your local building code for the maximum spacing of stringers with open rises because it is quite common to see exterior stairs with open rises that are 48 wide.
The building code has different standards for residential and commercial stair treads. Basically residential stairs can be steeper and have narrower treads. But if anything, consider building deck stairs with wider treads and lower rises. It just feels better.
Here is a list of the key points.
Deck stair rails also have special requirements under the building code.
A 2x4 or 2x4 flat, or on edge does not constitute a proper handrail according to the deck building code. So if you truly want to follow the code, check out this list.
Just as with a house, deck building code requirements will have something to say about the kind of foundation needed for your deck. This is mostly a concern if you build a deck on soft soil.
A soil engineer has a special meter that they stick into soil to give them an accurate idea of the quality of the soil.
This is really important for building a house. Just talk to your local city building inspector if you are particularly concerned.
You probably never thought deck building would involve covenants but sometimes it does. Drop in to your local city building department and chat with the officials about any covenants that may specify size, style, and location or material restrictions for you deck.
This usually isnt a deck building issue but if there is an existing easement that allows your neighbors or public officials access to a portion of your property, make sure you dont build in a way that impedes this access. If you own your property you should have an entire history of its title from when you purchased the property.
Again, the city will tell you right up front what the setbacks from property lines or sidewalks are. There are usually limits to how close your deck can be to another building. Be sure to find out - You don't want any surprises after its built.
Basically any regulation can be challenged and depending on your circumstances, may be set aside. But youre building a deck not a high-rise so this should not be an issue.
But before you start building your deck you owe it to yourself to learn how the code requirements will apply to deck building.
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