The 2024 International Residential Code (IRC) is available. One addition to the new residential code deals with the wood framing around stair openings. This addition was submitted as part of a code change proposal by the Stairbuilders and Manufacturers Association (SMA) based on the work and...

Building safety includes a wide range of best practices, including implementing fire suppression systems, conducting regular inspections on existing buildings, providing clear access to emergency exits, employing sustainable water and energy usage, and more. By understanding and adhering to...

An attic truss with 7 feet room height – should it be designed for 20 psf (pounds per square foot), 30 psf, or 40 psf room live load? Per International Residential Code (IRC) Table R301.5, the minimum uniformly distributed live load for uninhabitable attics with limited storage is 20...

The American Wood Council (AWC) released its three new 2024 wood design standards: the National Design Specification® for Wood Construction (NDS®), Wood Frame Construction Manual (WFCM) for One- and Two-Family Dwellings, and Fire Design Specification for Wood Construction (FDS). These...

After more than three years in development, I’m pleased to announce the publication of ANSI/TPI 1–2022 National Design Standard for Metal Plate Connected Wood Truss Construction. Including a Commentary & Appendices, this standard is available for purchase in print and...

Attic truss with 7 feet room height – should it be designed for 20 psf (pounds per square foot), 30 psf or 40 psf room live load? IRC (International Residential Code) defines Habitable Space as a space in a building for living, sleeping, eating, or cooking. Per IRC 2018 Table...

In the last article, we described the primary structural and wood-related changes in the 2021 International Residential Code, Chapters 3 and 4. This article will continue with the primary changes to Chapters 5 through 8 of the IRC. Decks For the 2018 and the 2021 IRC, an informal group...

The ICC code change cycle for the 2024 International Codes is near completion, with only the certification by the Validation Committee and confirmation by the ICC Board of Group B results outstanding. However, many jurisdictions may just now be adopting the 2021 International Codes. This is the...

As many communities and potential homeowners struggle with housing affordability, tiny houses have emerged as part of the solution. Assuring these tiny houses deliver the same level of safety and efficiency of other permanent housing solutions is essential. Local building codes and the...

The first thing to consider with bearing sizes is the minimum required by the building codes. Per 2018 IRC, International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings, Sec. R802.6 – When a ceiling joist is supported directly on wood or metal, the minimum bearing size required is...