PROPOSED RULES
Original Notice.
Preproposal statement of inquiry was filed as WSR 09-05-051.
Title of Rule and Other Identifying Information: Amendment of chapter 51-51 WAC, Adoption and amendment of the 2009 Edition of the International Residential Code (IRC) and standards.
Hearing Location(s): Holiday Inn Select Renton, One Grady Way South, Renton, WA, on September 29, 2009, at 10:00 a.m.; and at the Spokane City Council Chambers, West 808 Spokane Falls Boulevard, Spokane, WA, on October 5, 2009, at 9:00 a.m.
Date of Intended Adoption: November 12, 2009.
Submit Written Comments to: Peter DeVries, Council Chair, P.O. Box 42525, Olympia, WA 98504-2525, e-mail sbcc@commerce.wa.gov, fax (360) 586-9383, by October 5, 2009.
Assistance for Persons with Disabilities: Contact Sue Mathers by September 15, 2009, TTY (360) 586-0772 or (360) 725-2966.
Purpose of the Proposal and Its Anticipated Effects, Including Any Changes in Existing Rules: The proposed rules adopt the most recently published edition of the IRC and make changes to the state amendments to this code.
1. WAC 51-51-003 International Residential Code. Adopts 2009 edition, change from 2006 edition. Maintains amendment to not adopt chapters 11 and 25 through 42, regulating energy efficiency, plumbing and electrical; maintains amendment to adopt Appendix G, Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs.
2. WAC 51-51-008 Implementation. Sets effective date of July 1, 2010, for 2009 IRC.
3. Section R102 Applicability. Section 102.5 Appendices. References new Appendix S, Fire Sprinklers, and preapproves Appendix S for local adoption upon notification of the council. Section 102.7.1 Additions, alterations or repairs. Provides an exception for ventilation and radon protection.
4. Section R202 Definitions. Adds, deletes and amends definitions, including air-impermeable insulation; attic, habitable; dwelling unit; source specific ventilation; whole house ventilation.
5. Section R301 Design criteria. Delete Table 301.5, Minimum distributed live loads. State amendments adopted in the 2009 model code. Revert to 2009 IRC without state amendments.
6. Section R302 Fire-resistant Construction. Adopts and amends provisions in 2009 model code for fire-resistant construction to replace existing state amendments for location on lot and townhouse separation, and for structural independence of townhouses.
7. Section R303 Light, ventilation and heating. Section R303.1 Natural light. Section R303.2 Minimum ventilation performance. Integrates Washington state ventilation requirements. (reference should be M1507)
8. Section R303.6 Stairway Illumination. Adds a requirement for illumination to receive primary power from the building wiring.
9. Section R311 Means of egress. R311.4 Vertical egress. Provides an exception to stairs for small loft areas.
10. Section R313 Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems. New section 313; this section is modified to move the sprinkler requirement to Appendix S; allows the use of prescriptive design in Appendix R for voluntarily installed fire sprinklers.
11. Section R314 Smoke alarms. Smoke alarms requirements moved from section 313 to section 314.
12. Section R315.1 Carbon monoxide alarms. New language developed to comply with SSB 5561. This section provides standards for new residential construction.
13. Section R315.2 Carbon monoxide alarms. New language developed to comply with SSB 5561. This section provides standards for existing dwellings.
14. Section R315.3 Carbon monoxide alarms. New language describes alarm requirements.
15. Section R317 Dwelling unit separation. This section is moved to R302. State amendment deleted.
16. Section R322 Flood resistant construction. Allows a greater building elevation requirement where designated by local ordinance.
17. Section R403 Footings. State amendment is modified to address continuous footings and braced wall footings, the remaining state amendments are deleted to be consistent with the model code.
18. Section R404 Foundation and retaining walls. State amendments are deleted to be consistent with the model code.
19. Section R408 Under-floor space. State amendment clarifies conditions for vented and unvented under floor spaces.
20. Section R502.2.2.2 Alternate Deck Ledger Connections. State amendment allows an approved fastener.
21. Section R502.2.2.3 Deck Lateral Load Connections. Adds an exception for decks under thirty inches from grade.
22. Section R602 Wood Wall Framing. Amends provisions related to braced wall panels and cripple wall footings and bracing. (602.10.1.5 exception applies to "one area")
23. Section R613 Exterior windows and glass doors. State amendment provides an exception from the testing and labeling requirement for small business.
24. Section 702 [R702] Interior covering. State amendment requires an exposure rating on plywood panels. Moved from state ventilation and indoor air quality code.
25. Section R703 Exterior covering. State amendment clarifies that an air space is not required behind certain lapped or panel siding.
26. Section R806 Roof ventilation. State amendment allows an unvented attic under certain conditions.
27. Section R903 Weather protection. Overflow drains and scuppers. State amendment clarifies where overflow drain connects.
28. Section R1001 Masonry fireplaces. State amendment specifies combustion air requirements for fireplaces. Moved from state ventilation and indoor air quality code.
29. Section R1006 Exterior air supply. State amendment specifies combustion air requirements for solid fuel burning devices. Moved from state ventilation and indoor air quality code.
30. Section M1302 General Mechanical System Requirements. State amendment adds requirements for construction documents and testing at the discretion of the building official, to be consistent with the state mechanical code.
31. Section M1415 Masonry heaters. State amendment requires tight fitting doors. Moved from the state ventilation and indoor air quality code.
32. Section M1501 General. Outdoor discharge. State amendment is deleted to be consistent with the model code.
33. Section M1507 Source Specific Ventilation. State amendment meets ventilation requirements of the state ventilation and indoor air quality code.
34. Section M1508 Whole House Ventilation. State amendment meets ventilation requirements of the state ventilation and indoor air quality code.
35. Section M1601.1.1 Above ground duct systems. State amendment clarifies use of stud wall cavities for ducts.
36. Section M1701 Combustion Air. Reference to fireplace is added for consistency.
37. Section G2439 Clothes dryer exhaust. State amendment is deleted to be consistent with the model code.
38. Chapter 44 Reference Standards. State amendment adopts a test method for emissions from fireplaces.
39. WAC 51-51-60105 Appendix R. Dwelling unit fire sprinkler systems. Adopts a prescriptive method to install multipurpose fire sprinkler systems.
40. WAC 51-51-60107 Appendix S. Where adopted locally, requires fire sprinklers in one and two family dwellings and townhouses.
Reasons Supporting Proposal: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074.
Statutory Authority for Adoption: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074.
Statute Being Implemented: Chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW.
Rule is not necessitated by federal law, federal or state court decision.
Agency Comments or Recommendations, if any, as to Statutory Language, Implementation, Enforcement, and Fiscal Matters: The council is seeking comments on the issues proposed in the rules shown below.
Name of Proponent: Washington state building code council, governmental.
Name of Agency Personnel Responsible for Drafting and Implementation: Joanne McCaughan, P.O. Box 42525, Olympia, WA 98504-2525, (360) 725-2970; and Enforcement: Local jurisdictions.
A small business economic impact statement has been prepared under chapter 19.85 RCW.
INTRODUCTION: The state building code council is proposing to adopt the 2009 version of the IRC. The following sections were identified by the council's economic and regulatory assessment committee (ERAC) as having a potential disproportionate cost impact to small business:
| • | Section R612 Exterior Door and Window Assemblies |
The IRC is published by the International Code Council.
The council appointed a technical advisory group (TAG) to do a comprehensive review and analysis of changes in the 2009 edition of the IRC. The TAG held meetings in the spring of 2009. All proposed state amendments were examined, and new provisions in the 2009 model code edition. The TAGs identified items with more than a minor first cost impact and referred these items to be reviewed by ERAC.
The council members and participants are representative sample of individuals involved in the building construction industry. The participants included: Architects, home builders, building officials, contractors, fire officials, energy professionals, manufacturers, engineers, plumbers, state and local officials, inspectors, industry associations and organizations, companies and business, electricians, and the general public.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED RULE AMENDMENTS:
Section 612.6 [R612.6] Exterior windows and glass doors, Testing and labeling: Requires exterior windows and glass doors to be tested and labeled according to a test standard for structural loading.
Reporting and record-keeping requirements: The proposed rule impacts the reporting and/or record keeping required to comply. Small business window and door manufacturers would be required to keep records of test results for all units.
Associated costs: Associated costs of equipment, supplies, labor, professional services and administrative costs are included in the cost of compliance.
The TAG identified a disproportionate impact on small business window and door manufacturers to test and label all units. The cost of testing sample units and labeling all units to meet the standards would be disproportionate due to the production process. A comparison per one hundred dollars of sales shows a disproportionate cost for small manufacturers to test and label product. Large window manufacturers, due to volume of production, have a cost per unit for testing and labeling disproportionately less compared to small business window manufacturers; the cost per testing and labeling custom window[s] due to limited production lines has an impact at least ten times greater than large manufacturers and in fact makes production cost prohibitive and compliance with the rule impractical.
Lost sales or revenue: The TAG identified a potential loss of sales and revenue for small business window manufacturers.
Steps taken to reduce costs: Through a formal and established method of negotiated rule making, the council and the affected industries have considered and mitigated costs associated with the proposed rules. The proposed rule modifies substantive regulatory requirements on small businesses. The proposed rule allows an alternate method of compliance to avoid cost and disproportionate economic impact associated with testing and labeling window and door products manufactured by small businesses in Washington state. The council solicited feedback from the industry to develop methods to mitigate the costs and provide a method to avoid additional costs of compliance.
Involvement of small businesses: The council has included small businesses in the development of the proposed rules.
| • | Small businesses were included in mailings and electronic notification. |
| • | Small businesses were notified of meetings, agenda topics and proposals. |
| • | Council members, technical group members and staff responded to inquiries from small businesses. |
| • | The technical advisory group convened a special meeting to address small business concerns. |
| NAICS # | DESCRIPTION | NUMBER OF FIRMS | |
| 321911 | Wood window and door manufacturing | 52 | 5 |
| 332321 | Metal window and door manufacturing | 14 | 3 |
| 327211 | Flat Glass Manufacturing | 10 | 2 |
| 321918 | Other Millwork | 49 | 6 |
Job estimates: No jobs created or lost as a result of compliance with the proposed rule, as the alternative method allows compliance, and has been in effect since 2007.
CONCLUSION: The council recognizes that the proposed rules may impose an economic impact on businesses in the building construction industry. However, the council also realizes its obligation to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the occupants or users of buildings and structures and the general public through the provisions of the building codes throughout the state, as stated in the council's legislative mandate.
The council has negotiated the proposed rules into their current form in an effort to achieve a minimum standard that meets the need of the building construction industry and the citizens of this state. The council appointed TAGs to do a comprehensive review and analysis of the proposed changes to the model code. All proposed state amendments submitted in 2009 were reviewed. The TAG findings were reviewed by ERAC to determine where the proposed rules would impact small businesses. To mitigate the impacts, the proposed rules were modified to eliminate disproportionate cost impact on the effected small businesses.
A copy of the statement may be obtained by contacting Tim Nogler, P.O. Box 42525, Olympia, WA 98504-2525, phone (360) 725-2969, fax (360) 586-9383, e-mail nogler.tim@commerce.wa.gov. During review of the proposed changes, the TAG did not identify any items with potential disproportionate cost impact to small business.
A cost-benefit analysis is not required under RCW 34.05.328. The state building code council is not listed in this section as one of the agencies required to comply with this statute.
August 1, 2009
Peter D. DeVries
Council Chair
OTS-2590.2
STATE BUILDING CODE ADOPTION AND AMENDMENT OF THE ((2006))
2009 EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL RESIDENTIAL CODE
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.074, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 07-01-090, § 51-51-003, filed 12/19/06, effective 7/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-109, § 51-51-003, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.074, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 07-01-090, § 51-51-008, filed 12/19/06, effective 7/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-109, § 51-51-008, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]
R102.5 Appendices. Provisions in the appendices shall not
apply unless specifically referenced in the adopting
ordinance. Except for Appendix S, Fire Sprinklers, an
appendix adopted by a local jurisdiction shall not be
effective unless approved by the state building code council
pursuant to RCW 19.27.060 (1)(a). The state building code
council has determined that a local ordinance requiring fire
sprinklers in accordance with Appendix S of this chapter may
be adopted by any local government upon notification of the
council.
Appendix G, Swimming Pools, Spas and Hot Tubs, and Appendix R, Dwelling Unit Fire Sprinkler Systems, are included in adoption of the International Residential Code.
R102.7.1 Additions, alterations or repairs. Additions,
alterations or repairs to any structure shall conform to the
requirements for a new structure without requiring the
existing structure to comply with all of the requirements of
this code, unless otherwise stated. Additions, alterations or
repairs shall not cause an existing structure to become unsafe
or adversely affect the performance of the building.
| EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Additions with less than 500 square feet of conditioned floor area are exempt from the requirements for Whole House Ventilation Systems, Section M1508. |
| 2. Additions or alterations to existing buildings which do not require the construction of foundations, crawlspaces, slabs or basements shall not be required to meet the requirements for radon protection in Section R327.1 and Appendix F. |
| EXCEPTION: | Group R-3 buildings or structures are not required to comply if: |
| 1. The original occupancy classification is not changed; and | |
| 2. The original building is not substantially remodeled or rehabilitated. |
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.074, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 07-01-090, § 51-51-0102, filed 12/19/06, effective 7/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-109, § 51-51-0102, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]
ADULT FAMILY HOME means a dwelling in which a person or persons
provide personal care, special care, room and board to more
than one but not more than six adults who are not related by
blood or marriage to the person or persons providing the
services.
((BALCONY, EXTERIOR. Definition is not adopted.))
AIR-IMPERMEABLE INSULATION. An insulation having an air permeance
equal to or less than 0.02 L/s-m2 at 75 Pa pressure
differential tested in accordance with ASTM E2178 or ASTM
E283.
ATTIC, HABITABLE. A conditioned area, not considered a story,
complying with all of the following requirements:
1. The occupiable floor area is at least 70 square feet (6.5 m2), in accordance with Section R304.
2. The occupiable floor area has a ceiling height in accordance with Section R305.
3. The occupiable space is enclosed by the roof assembly above, knee walls (if applicable) on the sides, and the floor-ceiling assembly below.
CHILD DAY CARE, shall, for the purposes of these regulations,
mean the care of children during any period of a 24 hour day.
CHILD DAY CARE HOME, FAMILY is a child day care facility, licensed
by the state, located in the dwelling of the person or persons
under whose direct care and supervision the child is placed,
for the care of twelve or fewer children, including children
who reside at the home.
((DECK. Definition is not adopted.))
DWELLING UNIT. A single unit providing complete independent
living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent
provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and
sanitation. Dwelling units may also include the following
uses:
1. Adult family homes, foster family care homes and family day care homes licensed by the Washington state department of social and health services.
2. Offices, mercantile, food preparation for off-site consumption, personal care salons or similar uses which are conducted primarily by the occupants of the dwelling unit and are secondary to the use of the unit for dwelling purposes, and which do not exceed 500 square feet (46.4 m2).
3. Owner-occupied dwellings with 5 or fewer guest rooms.
FIRE SEPARATION DISTANCE. The distance measured from the
foundation wall or face of the wall framing, whichever is
closer, to one of the following:
1. To the closest interior lot line; or
2. To the centerline of a street, an alley or public way; or
3. To an imaginary line between two buildings on the lot.
The distance shall be measured at a right angle from the wall.
SMALL BUSINESS. Any business entity (including a sole
proprietorship, corporation, partnership or other legal
entity) which is owned and operated independently from all
other businesses, which has the purpose of making a profit,
and which has fifty or fewer employees, or which has a million
dollars or less per year in gross sales, of window products.
SOURCE SPECIFIC VENTILATION SYSTEM. A mechanical ventilation system
including all fans, controls, and ducting, which is dedicated
to exhausting contaminant-laden air to the exterior of the
building from the room or space in which the contaminant is
generated.
UNUSUALLY TIGHT CONSTRUCTION. Construction meeting the following
requirements:
1. Walls exposed to the outside atmosphere having a continuous water vapor retarder with a rating of 1 perm (57 ng/s·m˛·Pa) or less with openings gasketed or sealed;
2. Openable windows and doors meeting the air leakage requirements of the International Energy Conservation Code, Section 502.1.4; and
3. Caulking or sealants are applied to areas such as joints around window and door frames, between sole plates and floors, between wall-ceiling joints, between wall panels, at penetrations for plumbing, electrical and gas lines, and at other openings; or
4. Buildings built in compliance with the 1986 or later editions of the Washington State Energy Code chapter 51-11 WAC, Northwest Energy Code, or Super Good Cents weatherization standards or equivalent.
WHOLE HOUSE VENTILATION SYSTEM. A mechanical ventilation system,
including fans, controls, and ducts, which replaces, by direct
or indirect means, air from the habitable rooms with outdoor
air.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.190, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 09-04-023, § 51-51-0202, filed 1/27/09, effective 7/1/09; 08-01-102, § 51-51-0202, filed 12/18/07, effective 4/1/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.074, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 07-01-090, § 51-51-0202, filed 12/19/06, effective 7/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-109, § 51-51-0202, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]
MINIMUM UNIFORMLY DISTRIBUTED LIVE LOADS
(in pounds per square foot)
| (( |
|
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.190, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 08-01-102, § 51-51-0301, filed 12/18/07, effective 4/1/08.]
R302.1 Exterior walls. ((Exterior walls with a fire
separation distance of 3 feet (914 mm) or less shall have not
less than a one-hour fire-resistive rating with exposure from
both sides. Projections shall not extend to a point closer
than 2 feet (610 mm) from the line used to determine the fire
separation distance.
| EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Walls, projections, openings or penetrations in walls perpendicular to the line used to determine the fire separation distance. |
| 2. Walls of dwellings and accessory structures located on the same lot. | |
| 3. Detached tool sheds and storage sheds, playhouses and similar structures exempted from permits are not required to provide protection based on location on the lot. Projections beyond the exterior wall shall not extend over the lot line. | |
| 4. Detached garages accessory to a dwelling located within 2 feet (610 mm) of a lot line are permitted to have roof eave projections not exceeding 4 inches (102 mm). | |
| 5. Foundation vents installed in compliance with this code are permitted. |
| Exterior Wall Element | Minimum Fire-Resistance Rating | Minimum Fire Separation Distance | |
| Walls | (Fire-resistance rated) | 1-hour tested in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL 263 with exposure from both sides | < 5 feet |
| (Not fire-resistance rated) | 0 hours | ≥ 5 feet | |
| Projections | (Fire-resistance rated) | 1 hour on the undersideab | ≥2 feet to 5 feet |
| (Not fire-resistance rated) | 0 hours | 5 feet | |
| Openings in Walls | Not allowed | N/A | < 3 feet |
| 25% maximum of wall area | 0 hours | 3 feet | |
| Unlimited | 0 hours | 5 feet | |
| Penetrations | All | Comply with Section R302.4 | < 5 feet |
| None required | 5 feet | ||
a. Roof eave fire-resistance rating shall be permitted to be reduced to 0 hours on the underside of the eave if fire blocking is provided from the wall top plate to the underside of the roof sheathing.
b. Roof eave overhangs shall be permitted to be reduced to 0 hours where no gable vent opening is allowed.
R302.2 ((Openings. Openings shall not be permitted in the
exterior wall of a dwelling or accessory building with a fire
separation distance of 3 feet (914 mm) or less. Openings,
including openings for ventilation, shall be limited to 25% of
the exterior wall area with a fire separation distance between
3 feet (914 mm) to less than 5 feet (1524 mm). This distance
shall be measured perpendicular to the line used to determine
the fire separation distance.
| EXCEPTION: | (1) A common 1-hour fire-resistance rated wall assembly tested in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL 263 is permitted for townhouses where an automatic sprinkler system is installed in accordance with NFPA 13 D, if such walls do not contain plumbing or mechanical equipment, ducts or vents in the cavity of the common wall. The wall shall be rated for fire exposure from both sides and shall extend to and be tight against exterior walls and the underside of the roof sheathing. Electrical installations shall be installed in accordance with chapter 296-46B WAC or electrical code as adopted by the local jurisdiction. Penetrations of electrical outlet boxes shall be in accordance with Section R302.4. |
| (2) A common 2-hour fire-resistance-rated wall assembly tested in accordance with ASTM E 119 or UL 263 is permitted for townhouses if such walls do not contain plumbing or mechanical equipment, ducts or vents in the cavity of the common wall. The wall shall be rated for fire exposure from both sides and shall extend to and be tight against exterior walls and the underside of the roof sheathing. Electrical installations shall be installed in accordance with chapter 296-46B WAC or electrical code as adopted by the local jurisdiction. Penetrations of electrical outlet boxes shall be in accordance with Section R302.4. |
Where a story extends beyond the exterior wall of a story below:
1. The fire-resistance-rated wall or assembly shall extend to the outside edge of the upper story; or
2. The underside of the exposed floor-ceiling assembly shall be protected as required for projections in Section R302.
R302.2.4 Structural independence. Each individual townhouse
shall be structurally independent.
| EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Foundation supporting exterior walls or common walls. |
| 2. Structural roof and wall sheathing from each unit may be fastened to the common wall framing. | |
| 3. Nonstructural wall coverings. | |
| 4. Flashing at termination of roof covering over common wall. | |
| 5. Townhouses separated by a common 2-hour fire-resistance-rated wall as provided in Section R302.2. | |
| 6. Floor sheathing may fasten to the floor framing of both units. |
| EXCEPTION: | Penetrations shall be permitted in walls that are perpendicular to the line used to determine the fire separation distance. |
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.190, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 09-04-023, § 51-51-0302, filed 1/27/09, effective 7/1/09; 08-01-102, § 51-51-0302, filed 12/18/07, effective 4/1/08.]
R303.1 Natural Light. All habitable rooms shall have an
aggregate glazing area of not less than 8 percent of the floor
area of such rooms.
| EXCEPTION: | The glazed areas need not be installed in rooms where artificial light is provided capable of producing an average illumination of 6 footcandles (65 lux) over the area of the room at a height of 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor level. |
| EXCEPTION: | Openings required for light shall be permitted to open into a thermally isolated sunroom addition or patio cover, provided that there is an openable area between the adjoining room and the sunroom addition or patio cover of not less than one-tenth of the floor area of the interior room but not less than 20 square feet (2 m2). |
R303.3 Bathrooms. This section is not adopted.
R303.4.1 Intake Openings. Mechanical and gravity outdoor air
intake openings shall be located a minimum of 10 feet (3048
mm) from any hazardous or noxious contaminant, such as vents,
chimneys, plumbing vents, streets, alleys, parking lots and
loading docks, except as otherwise specified in this code.
Where a source of contaminant is located within 10 feet (3048
mm) of an intake opening, such opening shall be located a
minimum of 3 feet (914 mm) below the contaminant source.
For the purposes of this section, the exhaust from dwelling unit toilet rooms, bathrooms and kitchens shall not be considered as hazardous or noxious.
R303.6 Stairway Illumination. All interior and exterior
stairways shall be provided with a means to illuminate the
stairs, including the landings and treads. Stairway
illumination shall receive primary power from the building
wiring. Interior stairways shall be provided with an
artificial light source located in the immediate vicinity of
each landing of the stairway. For interior stairs the
artificial light sources shall be capable of illuminating
treads and landings to levels not less than 1 foot-candle (11
lux) measured at the center of treads and landings. Exterior
stairways shall be provided with an artificial light source
located in the immediate vicinity of the top landing of the
stairway. Exterior stairways providing access to a basement
from the outside grade level shall be provided with an
artificial light source located in the immediate vicinity of
the bottom landing of the stairway.
| EXCEPTION: | An artificial light source is not required at the top and bottom landing, provided an artificial light source is located directly over each stairway section. |
| EXCEPTION: | Lights that are continuously illuminated or automatically controlled. |
DESIGNATED AREAS are those areas designated by a county to be an
urban growth area in chapter 36.70A RCW and those areas
designated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as
being in nonattainment for particulate matter.
SUBSTANTIALLY REMODELED means any alteration or restoration of a
building exceeding 60 percent of the appraised value of such
building within a 12 month period. For the purpose of this
section, the appraised value is the estimated cost to replace
the building and structure in kind, based on current
replacement costs.
R303.8.2 Primary Heating Source. Primary heating sources in
all new and substantially remodeled buildings in designated
areas shall not be dependent upon wood stoves.
R303.8.3 Solid Fuel Burning Devices. No used solid fuel
burning device shall be installed in new or existing buildings
unless such device is United States Environmental Protection
Agency certified or a pellet stove either certified or exempt
from certification by the United States Environmental
Protection Agency.
| EXCEPTION: | Antique wood cook stoves and heaters manufactured prior to 1940. |
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-109, § 51-51-0303, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]
((R311.1 General.)) R311.4 Vertical egress. Stairways, ramps,
exterior exit balconies, hallways and doors shall comply with
this section.
| EXCEPTION: | Stairs or ladders within an individual dwelling unit used for access to areas of 200 square feet (18.6 m2) or less, and not containing the primary bathroom or kitchen. |
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.074, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 07-01-090, § 51-51-0311, filed 12/19/06, effective 7/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-109, § 51-51-0311, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]
((R313.2 Location. Smoke alarms shall be installed in the
following locations:
1. In each sleeping room.
2. Outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms.
3. On each additional story of the dwelling, including basements but not including crawl spaces and uninhabitable attics. In dwellings or dwelling units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.
4. In napping areas in family child day care homes.
When more than one smoke alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwelling unit, the alarm devices shall be interconnected in such a manner that the actuation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the individual unit.)) R313.1. Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems. A voluntarily installed automatic fire sprinkler system in townhouses or one and two family dwellings shall be installed in accordance with Appendix R, Dwelling Unit Fire Sprinkler Systems.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.074, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 07-01-090, § 51-51-0313, filed 12/19/06, effective 7/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-109, § 51-51-0313, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]
R314.2 Location. Smoke alarms shall be installed in the
following locations:
1. In each sleeping room.
2. Outside each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms.
3. On each additional story of the dwelling, including basements but not including crawl spaces and uninhabitable attics. In dwellings or dwelling units with split levels and without an intervening door between the adjacent levels, a smoke alarm installed on the upper level shall suffice for the adjacent lower level provided that the lower level is less than one full story below the upper level.
4. In napping areas in family child day care homes.
When more than one smoke alarm is required to be installed within an individual dwelling unit, the alarm devices shall be interconnected in such a manner that the actuation of one alarm will activate all of the alarms in the individual unit.
R314.3.1 Alterations, Repairs and Additions. When
alterations, repairs or additions requiring a permit occur, or
when one or more sleeping rooms are added or created in
existing dwellings, the individual dwelling unit shall be
equipped with smoke alarms as required for new dwellings.
| EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Work involving the exterior surfaces of dwellings, such as the replacement of roofing or siding, or the addition or replacement of windows or doors, or the addition of a porch or deck are exempt from the requirements of this section. |
| 2. Installation, alteration or repairs of plumbing, electrical or mechanical systems are exempt from the requirements of this section. |
[]
R315.1 Carbon Monoxide Alarms. For new construction, an
approved carbon monoxide alarm shall be installed outside of
each separate sleeping area in the immediate vicinity of the
bedroom in dwelling units within which fuel-fired appliances
are installed and in dwelling units that have attached
garages.
R315.2 Existing Dwellings. Existing dwellings within which
fuel-fired appliances exist or that have attached garages
shall be equipped with carbon monoxide alarms by January 1,
2013.
| EXCEPTION: | Owner-occupied detached one-family dwellings legally occupied prior to July 1, 2010. |
[]
((R317.2 Townhouses. Each townhouse shall be considered a
separate building and shall be separated by
fire-resistance-rated wall assemblies meeting the requirements
of Section R302 for exterior walls.
Where a story extends beyond the exterior wall of a story below:
1. The fire-resistance-rated wall or assembly shall
extend to the outside edge of the upper story; or
2. The underside of the exposed floor-ceiling assembly
shall be protected as required for projections in Section
R302.
R317.2.4 Structural independence. Each individual townhouse
shall be structurally independent.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.190, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 08-01-102, § 51-51-0317, filed 12/18/07, effective 4/1/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.074, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 07-01-090, § 51-51-0317, filed 12/19/06, effective 7/1/07.]
R322.2.1 Elevation Requirements.
1. Buildings and structures in flood hazard areas not designated as Coastal A Zones, shall have the lowest floor elevated to or above the design flood elevation, or a greater elevation as designated by local ordinance.
2. Buildings and structures in flood hazard areas designated as Coastal A Zones shall have the lowest floors elevated to or above the base flood elevation plus 1 foot (305 mm), or to the design load elevation, whichever is higher.
3. In areas of shallow flooding (AO Zones), buildings and structures shall have the lowest floor (including basement) elevated at least as high above the highest adjacent grade as the depth number specified in feet on the FIRM, or at least 2 feet (610 mm)if a depth number is not specified.
4. Basement floors that are below grade on all sides shall be elevated to or above the design flood elevation.
| EXCEPTION: | Enclosed areas below the design flood elevation, including basements whose floors are not below grade on all sides, shall meet the requirements of Section R322.2.2. |
[]
R403.1 General. All exterior walls shall be supported on
continuous solid or fully grouted masonry or concrete
footings, wood foundations, or other approved structural
systems which shall be of sufficient design to accommodate all
loads specified in Section R301 and to transmit the resulting
loads to the supporting soil within the limitations determined
from the characteristics of the soil. Footings shall be
supported on undisturbed natural soil or engineered fill.
Foundation walls complying with Section R404 or stem walls
complying with Section R403.1.3 shall be permitted to support
exterior walls, exterior braced wall lines and exterior braced
wall panels provided they are supported by continuous
footings.
R403.1.2 ((Braced Wall Panels)) Continuous Footing in Seismic
Design Categories D0, D1 and D2. The braced wall panels at
exterior ((and interior)) walls of buildings located in
Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2 shall be supported by
((foundations)) continuous footings. All required interior
braced wall panels shall be supported on footings at intervals
not exceeding 50 feet (15,240 mm).
| (( |
|
Where a construction joint is created between a concrete footing and a concrete stem wall, minimum vertical reinforcement of one No. 4 bar shall be provided at not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) on center. The bars shall extend to 3 inches (76 mm) clear of the bottom of the footing, have a standard hook, and extend into the stem wall the lesser of 2 inches (49 mm) clear of the top of the wall and 14 inches (357 mm).
Where a solidly grouted masonry stem wall is supported on a concrete footing, minimum vertical reinforcement of one No. 4 bar shall be provided at not more than 4 feet (1219 mm) on center. The bars shall extend to 3 inches (76 mm) clear of the bottom of the footing, have a standard hook, and extend into the stem wall to 2 inches (49 mm) clear of the top of the wall.
Masonry stem walls without solid grout and vertical reinforcing are not permitted.
Concrete and masonry stem walls shall comply with the requirements of Section R404 for foundation walls.
R403.1.4 Minimum depth. All exterior footings shall be placed
at least 12 inches (305 mm) below the undisturbed ground
surface. Where applicable, the depth of footings shall also
comply with Sections R403.1.4.1 through R403.1.4.2.
R403.1.4.1 Frost protection. Except where otherwise protected
from frost, foundation walls, piers and other permanent
supports of buildings and structures shall be protected from
frost by one or more of the following methods:
1. Extend below the frost line specified in Table R301.2(1);
2. Construct in accordance with Section R403.3;
3. Construct in accordance with ASCE 32; or
4. Erect on solid rock.
R403.1.6 Anchorage at braced wall panels. Where braced wall
panels are supported by monolithic slabs, footings or
foundations, the wood sole plates, wood sill plates or
cold-formed steel bottom tracks shall be anchored to the slab
cast monolithically with a footing, footing or foundation in
accordance with Section R403.1.6.
The wood sole or sill plate shall be anchored to the monolithic slab, footing or foundation with anchor bolts spaced a maximum of 6 feet (1829 mm) on center. There shall be a minimum of two bolts per plate section with one bolt located not more than 12 inches (305 mm) and not less than seven bolt diameters from each end of the plate section. Bolts shall be at least 1/2 inch (13 mm) in diameter and shall extend a minimum of 7 inches (178 mm) into masonry or concrete. A nut and washer shall be tightened to a snug-tight condition on each bolt to the plate.
Cold-formed steel framing systems shall be fastened to wood sill plates or anchored directly to the foundation in accordance with Section R505.3.1 or R603.3.1.
1. Bearing walls and interior braced wall sill plates shall be anchored to footings or foundations with anchor bolts spaced at not more than 6 feet (1829 mm) on center and located within 12 inches (305 mm) from the ends of each plate section when supported on a continuous foundation.
2. The maximum anchor bolt spacing shall be 4 feet (1219 mm) for buildings over two stories in height.
3. Plate washers complying with Section R602.11.1 shall be provided for all anchor bolts over the full length of required braced wall lines. Properly sized cut washers shall be permitted for anchor bolts in wall lines not containing braced wall panels or in braced wall lines.
4. Stepped cripple walls shall conform to Section R602.11.3.
5. Where wood foundations in accordance with Sections R402.1 and R404.2 are used, the force transfer shall have a capacity equal to or greater than the connections required by Section R602.11.1 or the braced wall panel shall be connected to the wood foundations in accordance with the braced wall panel-to-floor fastening requirements of Table 602.3(1).))
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.190, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 08-01-103, § 51-51-0403, filed 12/18/07, effective 4/1/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.074, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 07-01-090, § 51-51-0403, filed 12/19/06, effective 7/1/07.]
((R404.1 Concrete and masonry foundation walls. Concrete and
masonry foundation walls shall be selected and constructed in
accordance with the provisions of Section R404 or in
accordance with ACI 318, ACI 332, NCMA TR68-A or ACI 530/ASCE
5/TMS 402 or other approved structural standards. When ACI
318, ACI 332 or ACI 530/ASCE 5/TMS 402 or the provisions of
Section R404 are used to design concrete or masonry foundation
walls, project drawings, typical details and specifications
are not required to bear the seal of the architect or engineer
responsible for the design, unless otherwise required by the
state law of the jurisdiction having authority.
Tables R404.1(1), R404.1(2), and R404.1(3) are not adopted.
10-INCH MASONRY FOUNDATION WALLS WITH
REINFORCING
WHERE d > 6.75 INCHESa
Reserved.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.190, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 08-01-102, § 51-51-0404, filed 12/18/07, effective 4/1/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.074, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 07-01-090, § 51-51-0404, filed 12/19/06, effective 7/1/07.]
R408.1 Ventilation. The under-floor space between the bottom
of the floor joists and the earth under any building (except
space occupied by a basement) shall have ventilation openings
through foundation walls or exterior walls.
R408.2 Openings for under-floor ventilation. The minimum net
area of ventilation openings shall not be less than 1 square
foot (0.0929 m2) for each 300 square feet (28 m2) of
under-floor area. ((In addition, a ground cover that meets
the requirements of Section 502.1.6.7 of the Washington State
Energy Code (chapter 51-11 WAC) shall be installed.)) One
ventilating opening shall be within 3 feet (914 mm) of each
corner of the building, except one side of the building shall
be permitted to have no ventilation openings. Ventilation
openings shall be covered for their height and width with any
of the following materials provided that the least dimension
of the covering shall not exceed 1/4 inch (6.4 mm):
1. Perforated sheet metal plates not less than 0.070 inch (1.8 mm) thick.
2. Expanded sheet metal plates not less than 0.047 inch (1.2 mm) thick.
3. Cast-iron grill or grating.
4. Extruded load-bearing brick vents.
5. Hardware cloth of 0.035 inch (0.89 mm) wire or heavier.
6. Corrosion-resistant wire mesh, with the least dimension being 1/8 inch (3.2 mm).
| EXCEPTION: | The total area of ventilation openings shall be permitted to be reduced to 1/1,500 of the under-floor area where the ground surface is covered with an approved Class I vapor retarder material and the required openings are placed to provide cross ventilation of the space. The installation of operable louvers shall not be prohibited. If the installed ventilation is less than 1/300, or if operable louvers are installed, a radon vent shall be installed to originate from a point between the ground cover and soil. The radon vent shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of Appendix F (Radon) of this code. |
1. Exposed earth is covered with a continuous Class I vapor retarder. Joints of the vapor retarder shall overlap by 6 inches (152 mm) and shall be sealed or taped. The edges of the vapor retarder shall extend at least 6 inches (152 mm) up the stem wall and shall be attached and sealed to the stem wall; and a radon system shall be installed that meets the requirements of Appendix F (Radon) of this code.
2. Continuously operated mechanical exhaust ventilation is provided at a rate equal to 1 cubic foot per minute (0.47 L/s) for each 50 square feet (4.7 m2) of crawlspace floor area. Exhaust ventilation shall terminate to the exterior.
| EXCEPTION: | Plenum in existing structures complying with Section M1601.4, if under-floor space is used as a plenum. |
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.074, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 07-01-090, § 51-51-0408, filed 12/19/06, effective 7/1/07.]
R502.2.2.2 Alternate Deck Ledger Connections. Deck ledger
connections not conforming to Table R502.2.2.1 shall be
attached with approved fasteners having equivalent withdrawal
capacity or be designed in accordance with accepted
engineering practice. Girders supporting deck joists shall
not be supported on deck ledgers or band joists. Deck ledgers
shall not be supported on stone or masonry veneer.
R502.2.2.3 Deck Lateral Load Connections. The lateral load
connection required by Section R502.2.2 shall be permitted to
be in accordance with Figure R502.2.2.3. Hold-down tension
devices shall be installed in not less than two locations per
deck, and each device shall have an allowable stress design
capacity of not less than 1500 pounds (6672 N).
| EXCEPTION: | Decks not more than 30 inches above grade at any point may be unattached. |
[]
((R602.3 Design and construction. Exterior walls of wood
light-framed construction shall be designed and constructed in
accordance with the provisions of this chapter and Figures
R602.3(1) and R602.3(2) or in accordance with AF&PA's NDS.
Components of exterior walls shall be fastened in accordance
with Table R602.3(1) through R602.3(4). Exterior walls
covered with foam plastic sheathing shall be braced in
accordance with Section R602.10. Structural sheathing shall
be fastened directly to structural framing members.
R602.3.4 Bottom (sole) plate. Studs shall have full bearing
on a 2-inch nominal (38 mm) or larger plate or sill having a
width at least equal to the width of the studs.))
R602.9 Foundation cripple walls. Foundation cripple walls
shall be framed of studs not smaller than the studding above.
When exceeding 4 feet (1219 mm) in height, such walls shall be
framed of studs having the size required for an additional
story.
Cripple walls supporting bearing walls or exterior walls
or interior braced wall panels as required in Sections
R403.1.2 and ((R403.1.2.1)) R602.10.7.1 with a stud height
less than 14 inches (356 mm) shall be sheathed on at least one
side with a wood structural panel that is fastened to both the
top and bottom plates in accordance with Table R602.3(1), or
the cripple walls shall be constructed of solid blocking. Cripple walls ((supporting exterior walls or interior braced
wall panels as required in Section R403.1.2 and R403.1.2.1))
shall be supported on continuous footings or foundations.
((R602.10 Wall bracing. All exterior walls shall be braced in
accordance with this section. In addition, interior braced
wall lines shall be provided in accordance with Section
602.10.1.1. For buildings in Seismic Design Categories D0, D1
and D2, walls shall be constructed in accordance with the
additional requirements of Sections R602.10.11 through
R602.11.3.))
| EXCEPTION: | Footings supporting cripple walls used to support interior braced wall panels as required in Sections R403.1.2 and R602.10.7.1 shall be continuous for the required length of the cripple wall and constructed beyond the cripple wall for a minimum distance of 4 inches and a maximum distance of the footing thickness. The footings extension is not required at intersections with other footings. |
R602.10.1.5 Braced wall line spacing for Seismic Design
Categories D0, D1 and D2. Spacing between braced wall lines in
each story shall not exceed 25 feet (7620 mm) on center in
both the longitudinal and transverse directions.
| EXCEPTION: | In one-story and two-story buildings, spacing between two adjacent braced wall lines shall not exceed 35 feet (10,668 mm) on center in order to accommodate one single room not exceeding 900 square feet (84 m2) in each dwelling unit or accessory structure. Spacing between all other braced wall lines shall not exceed 25 feet (7 620 mm). A spacing of 35 feet (10,668 mm) or less shall be permitted between braced wall lines where the length of wall bracing required by Table R602.10.1.2(2) is multiplied by the appropriate adjustment factor from Table R602.10.1.5, the length-to-width ratio for the floor/roof diaphragm does not exceed 3:1, and the top plate lap splice face nailing is twelve 16d nails on each side of the splice. |
R602.10.2 Cripple wall bracing.
((R602.10.2.1 Seismic Design Categories Other than D2. In
Seismic Design Categories other than D2, cripple walls
supporting exterior walls or interior braced wall panels as
required in Section R403.1.2 and R403.1.2.1 shall be braced
with an amount and type of bracing as required for the wall
above in accordance with Table R602.10.1 with the following
modifications for cripple wall bracing:
1. The percent bracing amount as determined from Table R602.10.1 shall be increased by 15 percent; and
2. The wall panel spacing shall be decreased to 18 feet (5486 mm) instead of 25 feet (7620 mm).
R602.10.2.2 Seismic Design Category D2. In Seismic Design
Category D2, cripple walls supporting exterior walls or
interior braced wall panels as required in Section R403.1.2
and R403.1.2.1 shall be braced in accordance with Table
R602.10.1.))
R602.10.2.3 Redesignation of cripple walls. In any Seismic
Design Category, cripple walls are permitted to be
redesignated as the first story walls for purposes of
determining wall bracing requirements. If the cripple walls
are redesignated, the stories above the redesignated story
shall be counted as the second and third stories,
respectively.
((R602.10.5 Continuous wood structural panel sheathing. When
continuous wood structural panel sheathing is provided in
accordance with Method 3 of Section R602.10.3 on all
sheathable areas of all exterior walls including areas above
and below openings, braced wall panel lengths are not required
to be in accordance with Section R602.10.4 provided they are
in accordance with Table R602.10.5. Wood structural panel
sheathing shall be installed at corners in accordance with
Figure R602.10.5. The bracing percentages in Table R602.10.1
for Method 3 shall be permitted to be multiplied by a factor
of 0.9 for exterior walls with a maximum opening height that
does not exceed 85 percent of the wall height or a factor of
0.8 for exterior walls with a maximum opening height that does
not exceed 67 percent of the wall height.
LENGTH REQUIREMENTS FOR BRACED WALL PANELS IN A CONTINUOUSLY SHEATHED WALLa,b,c
a. Linear interpolation shall be permitted.
b. Full-height sheathed wall segments on either side of garage openings that support roofs of light-framed construction only, with roof covering dead loads of 3 psf or less shall be permitted to have a 4:1 height-to-width ratio.
c. Walls on either or both sides of openings in garages attached to fully sheathed dwellings shall be permitted to be built in accordance with Section R602.10.6.2 and Figure R602.10.6.2 except that a single sill plate shall be permitted and two anchor bolts shall be placed at 1/3 points. In addition, tie-down devices shall not be required and the vertical wall segment shall have a maximum 6:1 height-to-width ratio (with height being measured from top of header to the bottom of the sill plate). This option shall be permitted for the first story of two-story applications in Seismic Design Categories A through C.
R602.10.6 Alternate braced wall panel construction methods.
Alternate braced wall panels shall be constructed in
accordance with Sections R602.10.6.1 and R602.10.6.2.
R602.10.6.1 Alternate braced wall panels. Alternate braced
wall panels constructed in accordance with one of the
following provisions shall be permitted to replace each 4 feet
(1219 mm) of braced wall panel as required by Section
R602.10.4. The maximum height and minimum width of each panel
shall be in accordance with Table R602.10.6.
1. In one-story buildings, each panel shall be sheathed on one face with 3/8-inch-minimum-thickness (9.5 mm) wood structural panel sheathing nailed with 8d common or galvanized box nails in accordance with Table R602.3(1) and blocked at all wood structural panel sheathing edges. Two anchor bolts installed in accordance with Figure R403.1(1) shall be provided in each panel. Anchor bolts shall be placed in from each end of the panel a horizontal distance of one-fourth the panel width. Each panel end stud shall have a tie-down device fastened to the foundation, capable of providing an uplift capacity in accordance with Table R602.10.6. The tie-down device shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. The panels shall be supported directly on a foundation or on floor framing supported directly on a foundation which is continuous across the entire length of the braced wall line. This foundation shall be reinforced with not less than one No. 4 bar top and bottom. When the continuous foundation is required to have a depth greater than 12 inches (305 mm), a minimum 12-inch by 12-inch (305 mm by 305 mm) continuous footing or turned down slab edge is permitted at door openings in the braced wall line. This continuous footing or turned down slab edge shall be reinforced with not less than one No. 4 bar top and bottom. This reinforcement shall be lapped 15 inches (381 mm) with the reinforcement required in the continuous foundation located directly under the braced wall line.
2. In the first story of two-story buildings, each braced wall panel shall be in accordance with Item 1 above, except that the following:
2.1 The wood structural panel sheathing shall be provided on both faces;
2.2 Sheathing edge nailing spacing shall not exceed 4 inches on center; and
2.3 Anchor bolts shall be placed at the center of the panel width and in from each end of the panel a horizontal distance of one-fifth the panel width (three total).
R602.10.7 Panel joints. All vertical joints of panel
sheathing shall occur over, and be fastened to, common studs.
Horizontal joints in braced wall panels shall occur over, and
be fastened to, common blocking of a minimum 2 inches in
nominal thickness.
R602.10.9 ((Interior braced wall support. This section is not
adopted. See Section R403.1.2.
R602.10.10 Design of structural elements. Where a building,
or portion thereof, does not comply with one or more of the
bracing requirements in Sections R602.10 through R602.10.9,
those portions shall be designed and constructed in accordance
with accepted engineering practice.
R602.10.11 Bracing in Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2.
Structures located in Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2
shall have exterior and interior braced wall lines.
R602.10.11.1 Braced wall line spacing. Spacing between braced
wall lines in each story shall not exceed 25 feet (7620 mm) on
center in both the longitudinal and transverse directions.
R602.10.11.4 Cripple wall bracing. In addition to the
requirements of Section R602.10.2, where interior braced wall
panels occur without a foundation below, the length of
parallel exterior cripple wall bracing shall be one and
one-half times the length required by Table R602.10.1. Where
cripple walls braced using Method 3 of Section R602.10.3
cannot provide this additional length, the capacity of the
sheathing shall be increased by reducing the spacing of
fasteners along the perimeter of each piece of sheathing to 4
inches (102 mm) on center.
R602.10.11.5 Sheathing attachment. Adhesive attachment of
wall sheathing shall not be permitted in Seismic Design
Categories C, D0, D1 and D2.
R602.11 Framing and connections for Seismic Design Categories
D0, D1 and D2. The framing and connection details of buildings
located in Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2 shall be in
accordance with Sections R602.11.1 through R602.11.3.
R602.11.1 Wall anchorage. Braced wall line sill plates shall
be anchored to concrete or masonry foundations in accordance
with Sections R403.1.6 and R602.11. For all buildings in
Seismic Design Categories D0, D1 and D2 and townhouses in
Seismic Design Category C, plate washers, a minimum of 0.229
inch by 3 inches by 3 inches (5.8 mm by 76 mm by 76 mm) in
size, shall be installed between the foundation sill plate and
the nut. The hole in the plate washer is permitted to be
diagonally slotted with a width of up to 3/16 inch (5 mm)
larger than the bolt diameter and a slot length not to exceed
1-3/4 inches (44 mm), provided a standard cut washer is placed
between the plate washer and the nut.
R602.11.2 Interior braced wall panel connections. Interior
braced wall panels shall be fastened to floor and roof framing
in accordance with Table R602.3(1), to required foundations in
accordance with Section R602.11.1, and in accordance with the
following requirements:
1. Floor joists parallel to the top plate shall be toe-nailed to the top plate with at least 8d nails spaced a maximum of 6 inches (152 mm) on center.
2. Top plate laps shall be face-nailed with at least eight 16d nails on each side of the splice.
R602.11.3 Stepped foundations. Where stepped foundations
occur, the following requirements apply:
1. Where the height of a required braced wall panel that extends from foundation to floor above varies more than 4 feet (1220 mm), the braced wall panel shall be constructed in accordance with Figure R602.11.3.
2. Where the lowest floor framing rests directly on a sill bolted to a foundation not less than 8 feet (2440 mm) in length along a line of bracing, the line shall be considered as braced. The double plate of the cripple stud wall beyond the segment of footing that extends to the lowest framed floor shall be spliced by extending the upper top plate a minimum of 4 feet (1219 mm) along the foundation. Anchor bolts shall be located a maximum of 1 foot and 3 feet (305 and 914 mm) from each end of the plate section at the step in the foundation.
3. Where cripple walls occur between the top of the foundation and the lowest floor framing, the bracing requirements for a story shall apply.
4. Where only the bottom of the foundation is stepped and the lowest floor framing rests directly on a sill bolted to the foundations, the requirements of Section R602.11.1 shall apply.)) Cripple wall bracing. In Seismic Design Categories other than D2, cripple walls supporting bearing walls or exterior walls or interior braced wall panels as required in R403.1.2 and R602.10.7.1 shall be braced with a length and type of bracing as required for the wall above in accordance with Tables R602.10.1.2(1) and R602.10.1.2(2) with the following modifications for cripple wall bracing:
1. The length of bracing as determined from Tables R602.10.1.2(1) and R602.10.1.2(2) shall be multiplied by a factor of 1.15, and
2. The wall panel spacing shall be decreased to 18 feet (5486 mm) instead of 25 feet (7620 mm).
R602.10.9.1 Cripple wall bracing in Seismic Design Categories
D0, D1 and D2. In addition to the requirements of Section
R602.10.9, where braced wall lines at interior walls occur
without a continuous foundation below, the length of parallel
exterior cripple wall bracing shall be 1 1/2 times the length
required by Tables R602.10.1.2(1) and R602.10.1.2(2). Where
cripple walls braced using Method WSP of Section R602.10.2
cannot provide this additional length, the capacity of the
sheathing shall be increased by reducing the spacing of
fasteners along the perimeter of each piece of sheathing to 4
inches (102 mm) on center.
In Seismic Design Category D2, cripple walls supporting bearing walls or exterior walls or interior braced wall panels as required in Sections R403.1.2 and R602.10.7.1 shall be braced in accordance with Tables R602.10.1.2(1) and R602.10.1.2(2).
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.190, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 08-01-102, § 51-51-0602, filed 12/18/07, effective 4/1/08. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.074, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 07-01-090, § 51-51-0602, filed 12/19/06, effective 7/1/07.]
((R613.4)) R612.6 Testing and labeling. Exterior windows and
sliding doors shall be tested by an approved independent
laboratory, and bear a label identifying manufacturer,
performance characteristics and approved inspection agency to
indicated compliance with AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440. Exterior side-hinged doors shall be tested and labeled as
conforming to AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440 or comply with
Section R613.6.
| EXCEPTION: | 1. Decorative glazed openings. |
| 2. Custom exterior windows and doors manufactured by a small business shall be exempt from all testing requirements in Section R-613 of the International Residential Code provided they meet the applicable provisions of Chapter 24 of the International Building Code. |
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.074, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 07-01-090, § 51-51-0613, filed 12/19/06, effective 7/1/07.]
R702.5 Other finishes. Wood veneer paneling and hardboard
paneling shall be placed on wood or cold-formed steel framing
spaced not more than 16 inches (406 mm) on center. Wood
veneer and hardboard paneling less than 1/4-inch (6 mm)
nominal thickness shall not have less than a 3/8-inch (10 mm)
gypsum board packer. Wood veneer paneling not less than
1/4-inch (6 mm) nominal thickness shall conform to ANSI/HPVA
HP-1. Hardboard paneling shall conform to ANSI/AHA A135.5.
All structural panel components within the conditioned space
such as plywood, particle board, wafer board and oriented
strand board shall be identified as "EXPOSURE 1," "EXTERIOR" or
"HUD-APPROVED."
[]
R703.1 General. Exterior walls shall provide the building
with a weather-resistant exterior wall envelope. The exterior
wall envelope shall include flashing as described in Section
R703.8. The exterior wall envelope shall be designed and
constructed in a manner that prevents the accumulation of
water within the wall assembly by providing a water-resistant
barrier behind the exterior veneer as required by Section
R703.2 and a means of draining water that enters the assembly
to the exterior.
| EXCEPTIONS: | 1. A weather-resistant exterior wall envelope shall not be required over concrete or masonry walls designed in accordance with Chapter 6 and flashed according to Section R703.7 or R703.8. |
| 2. Compliance with the requirements for a means of drainage, and the requirements of Section R703.2 and R703.8, shall not be required for an exterior wall envelope that has been demonstrated to resist wind-driven rain through testing of the exterior wall envelope, including joints, penetrations and intersections with dissimilar materials, in accordance with ASTM E 331 under the following conditions: | |
| 2.1. Exterior wall envelope test assemblies shall include at least one opening, one control joint, one wall/eave interface and one wall sill. All tested openings and penetrations shall be representative of the intended end-use configuration. | |
| 2.2. Exterior wall envelope test assemblies shall be at least 4 feet (1219 mm) by 8 feet (2438 mm) in size. | |
| 2.3. Exterior wall assemblies shall be tested at a minimum differential pressure of 6.24 pounds per square foot (299Pa). | |
| 2.4. Exterior wall envelope assemblies shall be subjected to a minimum test exposure duration of 2 hours. | |
| The exterior wall envelope design shall be considered to resist wind-driven rain where the results of testing indicate that water did not penetrate: Control joints in the exterior wall envelope; joints at the perimeter of opening penetration; or intersections of terminations with dissimilar materials. | |
| 3. The requirement for a means of drainage shall not be construed to mean an air space cavity under the exterior cladding for an exterior wall clad with panel or lapped siding made of plywood, engineered wood, hardboard, or fiber cement. A water-resistive barrier as required by Section R703.2 and Table R703.4 will be required on exterior walls. |
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.190, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 08-01-102, § 51-51-0703, filed 12/18/07, effective 4/1/08.]
R806.4 ((Conditioned)) Unvented attic assemblies. ((This
section is not adopted.)) Unvented attic assemblies (spaces
between the ceiling joists of the top story and the roof
rafters) shall be permitted if all of the following conditions
are met:
1. The unvented attic space is completely contained within the building thermal envelope.
2. No interior vapor retarders are installed on the ceiling side (attic floor) of the unvented attic assembly.
3. Where wood shingles or shakes are used, a minimum 1/4-inch (6 mm) vented air space separates the shingles or shakes and the roofing underlayment above the structural sheathing.
4. Any air-impermeable insulation shall be a vapor retarder, or shall have a vapor retarder coating or covering in direct contact with the underside of the insulation.
5. Either items a, b or c below shall be met, depending on the air permeability of the insulation directly under the structural roof sheathing.
a. Air-impermeable insulation only. Insulation shall be applied in direct contact to the underside of the structural roof sheathing.
b. Air-permeable insulation only. In addition to the air-permeable insulation installed directly below the structural sheathing, rigid board or sheet insulation shall be installed directly above the structural roof sheathing as specified per Washington climate zone for condensation control.
i. Climate Zone #1 - R-10 minimum rigid board or air-impermeable insulation R-value.
ii. Climate Zone #2 - R-25 minimum rigid board or air-impermeable insulation R-value.
c. Air-impermeable and air-permeable insulation. The air-impermeable insulation shall be applied in direct contact to the underside of the structural roof sheathing as specified per Washington climate zone for condensation control. The air-permeable insulation shall be installed directly under the air-impermeable insulation.
i. Climate Zone #1 - R-10 minimum rigid board or air-impermeable insulation R-value.
ii. Climate Zone #2 - R-25 minimum rigid board or air-impermeable insulation R-value.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.074, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 07-01-090, § 51-51-0806, filed 12/19/06, effective 7/1/07.]
R903.4.1 Overflow drains and scuppers. Where roof drains are
required, overflow drains having the same size as the roof
drains shall be installed with the inlet flow line located 2
inches (51 mm) above the low point of the roof, or overflow
scuppers having three times the size of the roof drains and
having a minimum opening height of 4 inches (102 mm) shall be
installed in the adjacent parapet walls with the inlet flow
located 2 inches (51 mm) above the low point of the roof
served. The installation and sizing of overflow drains,
leaders and conductors shall comply with the plumbing code.
Overflow drains shall discharge to an approved location.
[]
R1001.7.1 Damper. Masonry fireplaces shall be equipped with a
ferrous metal damper located at least 8 inches (203 mm) above
the top of the fireplace opening. Dampers shall be installed
in the fireplace or the chimney venting the fireplace, and
shall be operable from the room containing the fireplace.
Fireplaces shall be provided with each of the following:
1. Tightly fitting flue dampers, operated by a readily accessible manual or approved automatic control.
| EXCEPTION: | Fireplaces with gas logs shall be installed in accordance with the International Mechanical Code Section 901, except that the standards for liquefied petroleum gas installations shall be NFPA 58 (Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code) and NFPA 54 (National Fuel Gas Code). |
| EXCEPTION: | Washington certified fireplaces shall be installed with the combustion air systems necessary for their safe and efficient combustion and specified by the manufacturer in accordance with the Washington State Building Standard 31-2 (WAC 51-50-31200) and IBC Section 2114 (WAC 51-50-2114). |
[]
R1006.2 Solid fuel burning appliances and fireplaces. Solid
fuel burning appliances and fireplaces shall be provided with
tight fitting metal or ceramic glass doors, and:
1. A source from outside the structure of primary combustion air, connected to the appliance as per manufacturer's specification. The air inlet shall originate at a point below the fire box. The duct shall be 4 inches or greater in diameter, not exceed 20 feet in length, and be installed as per manufacturer's instructions; or
2. The appliance and manufacturer's recommended combustion air supply, as an installed unit, shall be certified by an independent testing laboratory to have passed Test No. 11-Negative Pressure Test, Section 12.3, of ULC S627-M1984 "Space Heaters for Use with Solid Fuels," modified as follows:
Negative pressure of 8 Pascal shall be initially established with the chamber sealed and the air supply, if not directly connected to the appliance, closed off.
The air supply if not directly connected to the appliance, shall then be opened.
The maximum allowable air exchange rate from chamber leakage and intentional air supply for the unit (appliance with combustion air supply) in the test chamber is 3.5 air changes per hour, or 28 cfm (cubic feet of air per minute), whichever is less.
| EXCEPTION: | Combustion air may be supplied to the room in which the solid fuel burning appliance is located in lieu of direct ducting, provided that one of the following conditions is met: |
| 1.The solid fuel burning appliance is part of a central heating plant and installed in an unconditioned space in conformance with the International Mechanical Code; or | |
| 2.The solid fuel burning appliance is installed in existing construction directly on a concrete floor or surrounded by masonry materials as in a fireplace. |
R1006.1.1 Factory built fireplaces. Do not adopt this
section.
R1006.1.2 Masonry fireplaces. Do not adopt this section.
R1006.2 Exterior air intake. Do not adopt this section.
[]
M1302.2 Construction Documents. The plans and specifications
shall show in sufficient detail pertinent data and features of
the materials, equipment and systems as herein governed,
including, but not limited to: Design criteria, structural
panel materials, size and type of apparatus and equipment,
systems and equipment controls, provisions for combustion air
to fuel burning appliances, and other pertinent data to
indicate conformance with the requirements of this code.
M1302.3 Testing. At the discretion of the building official,
flow testing may be required to verify that the mechanical
system(s) satisfies the requirements of this code. Flow
testing may be performed using flow hoods measuring at the
intake or exhaust points of the system, in-line pitot tube, or
pitot-traverse type measurement systems in the duct, short
term tracer gas measurements, or other means approved by the
building official.
[]
M1415.1 General. Masonry heaters shall be approved by the
department of ecology and shall contain both of the following:
1. Primary combustion air ducted from the outside of the structure to the appliance.
2. Tight fitting ceramic glass or metal doors. Flue damper, when provided, shall have an external control and when in the closed position shall have a net free area of not less than 5% of the flue cross sectional area.
[]
((M1501 Outdoor discharge. The air removed by every
mechanical exhaust system shall be discharged to the outdoors.
Air shall not be exhausted into an attic, soffit, ridge vent
or crawl space.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.190, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 08-01-102, § 51-51-1501, filed 12/18/07, effective 4/1/08.]
M1507.1 General. Source specific exhaust ventilation is
required in each kitchen, bathroom, water closet, laundry
room, indoor swimming pool, spa, and other rooms where water
vapor or cooking odor is produced. The minimum source
specific ventilation effective exhaust capacity shall not be
less than levels specified in Table M1507.3.
M1507.3.1 Source Specific Exhaust Fans. Exhaust fans
providing source specific ventilation shall have a minimum fan
flow rating not less than 50 cfm at 0.25 inches water gauge
for bathrooms, laundries, or similar rooms and 100 cfm at 0.25
inches water gauge for kitchens. Manufacturers' fan flow
ratings shall be determined as per HVI 916 (April 1995) or
AMCA 210.
| EXCEPTION: | Where a range hood or down draft exhaust fan is used to satisfy the source specific ventilation requirements for kitchens, the range hood or down draft exhaust shall not be less than 100 cfm at 0.10 inches water gauge. |
M1507.3.3 Source Specific Ventilation Ducts. Source specific
ventilation ducts shall terminate outside the building.
Exhaust ducts shall be equipped with back-draft dampers. All
exhaust ducts in unconditioned spaces shall be insulated to a
minimum of R-4. Terminal elements shall have at least the
equivalent net free area of the duct work. Terminal elements
for exhaust fan duct systems shall be screened or otherwise
protected from entry by leaves or other material. Minimum 50%
net free area shall meet the requirements of R303.5.
[]
M1508.1 General. This section establishes minimum
prescriptive design requirements for whole house ventilation
systems. Each dwelling unit or guest room shall be equipped
with a ventilation system complying with Section M1508.4,
M1508.5, M1508.6 or M1508.7. Compliance is also permitted to
be demonstrated through compliance with the International
Mechanical Code.
M1508.1.1 Operating Instructions. Installers shall provide
the manufacturer's installation, operating instructions, and a
whole house ventilation system operation description.
M1508.2 Continuously Operating Exhaust Ventilation Systems.
Continuously operating exhaust ventilation systems shall
provide the minimum flow rates specified in Table M1508.2.
| Bedrooms | |||||
| 0-1 | 2-3 | 4-5 | 6-7 | >7 | |
| <1500 | 30 | 45 | 60 | 75 | 90 |
| 1501-3000 | 45 | 60 | 75 | 90 | 105 |
| 3001-4500 | 60 | 75 | 90 | 105 | 120 |
| 4501-6000 | 75 | 90 | 105 | 120 | 135 |
| 6001-7500 | 90 | 105 | 120 | 135 | 150 |
| >7500 | 105 | 120 | 135 | 150 | 165 |
| Qf = Qr/(&egr;f) |
| Qf | = | Fan flow rate |
| Qr | = | Ventilation air requirement (from Table 3-2) |
| &egr; | = | Ventilation effectiveness (from Table 3-4) |
| f | = | Fractional operation time |
| Daily Fractional Operation Time, f | Ventilation Effectiveness, &egr; |
| f ≤ 35% | 0.33 |
| 35% ≤ f < 60% | 0.50 |
| 60% ≤ f < 80% | 0.75 |
| 80% ≤ f | 1.0 |
M1508.4.1 Whole House Ventilation Fans. Exhaust fans
providing whole house ventilation shall have a flow rating at
0.25 inches water gauge as specified in Table M1503.2.
Manufacturers' fan flow ratings shall be determined according
to HVI 916 (April 1995) or AMCA 210.
M1508.4.2 Fan Noise. Whole house fans located 4 feet or less
from the interior grille shall have a sone rating of 1.0 or
less measured at 0.1 inches water gauge. Manufacturer's noise
ratings shall be determined as per HVI 915 (October 1995).
Remotely mounted fans shall be acoustically isolated from the
structural elements of the building and from attached duct
work using insulated flexible duct or other approved material.
M1508.4.3 Fan Controls. The whole house ventilation fan shall
be controlled by a 24-hour clock timer with the capability of
continuous operation, manual and automatic control. The
24-hour timer shall be readily accessible. The 24-hour timer
shall be capable of operating the whole house ventilation fan
without energizing other energy-consuming appliances. At the
time of final inspection, the automatic control timer shall be
set to operate the whole house fan for at least 8 hours a day.
A label shall be affixed to the control that reads "Whole
House Ventilation (see operating instructions)."
M1508.4.4 Exhaust Ducts. All exhaust ducts shall terminate
outside the building. Exhaust ducts shall be equipped with
back-draft dampers. All exhaust ducts in unconditioned spaces
shall be insulated to a minimum of R-4.
M1508.4.5 Outdoor Air Inlets. Outdoor air shall be
distributed to each habitable room by individual outdoor air
inlets. Where outdoor air supplies are separated from exhaust
points by doors, provisions shall be made to ensure air flow
by installation of distribution ducts, undercutting doors,
installation of grilles, transoms, or similar means where
permitted by the International Building Code. Doors shall be
undercut to a minimum of 1/2 inch above the surface of the
finish floor covering.
Individual room outdoor air inlets shall:
1. Have controllable and secure openings;
2. Be sleeved or otherwise designed so as not to compromise the thermal properties of the wall or window in which they are placed;
3. Provide not less than 4 square inches of net free area of opening for each habitable space. Any inlet or combination of inlets which provide 10 cfm at 10 Pascals as determined by the Home Ventilating Institute Air Flow Test Standard (HVI 901 November 1996) are deemed equivalent to 4 square inches net free area.
Inlets shall be screened or otherwise protected from entry by leaves or other material. Outdoor air inlets shall be located so as not to take air from the following areas:
1. Closer than 10 feet from an appliance vent outlet, unless such vent outlet is 3 feet above the outdoor air inlet.
2. Where it will pick up objectionable odors, fumes or flammable vapors.
3. A hazardous or unsanitary location.
4. A room or space having any fuel-burning appliances therein.
5. Closer than 10 feet from a vent opening of a plumbing drainage system unless the vent opening is at least 3 feet above the air inlet.
6. Attic, crawl spaces, or garages.
M1508.5 Intermittent Whole House Ventilation Integrated With a
Forced-Air System. This section establishes minimum
prescriptive requirements for intermittent whole house
ventilation systems integrated with forced-air ventilation
systems. A system which meets all the requirements of this
section shall be deemed to satisfy the requirements for a
whole house ventilation system.
M1508.5.1 Integrated Whole House Ventilation Systems.
Integrated whole house ventilation systems shall provide
outdoor air at the rate calculated using Section M1508.3.
Integrated forced-air ventilation systems shall distribute
outdoor air to each habitable room through the forced-air
system ducts. Integrated forced-air ventilation systems shall
have an outdoor air inlet duct connecting a terminal element
on the outside of the building to the return air plenum of the
forced-air system, at a point within 4 feet upstream of the
air handler. The outdoor air inlet duct connection to the
return air stream shall be located upstream of the forced-air
system blower and shall not be connected directly into a
furnace cabinet to prevent thermal shock to the heat
exchanger. The system will be equipped with a motorized
damper connected to the automatic ventilation control as
specified in Section M1508.5.2. The required flow rate shall
be verified by field testing with a flow hood or a flow
measuring station.
M1508.5.2 Ventilation Controls. The whole house ventilation
system shall be controlled by a 24-hour clock timer with the
capability of continuous operation, manual and automatic
control. This control will control the forced air system
blower and the automatic damper. The 24-hour timer shall be
readily accessible. The 24-hour timer shall be capable of
operating the whole house ventilation system without
energizing other energy-consuming appliances. At the time of
final inspection, the automatic control timer shall be set to
operate the whole house system for at least 8 hours a day. A
label shall be affixed to the control that reads "Whole House
Ventilation (see operating instructions)."
M1508.5.3 Ventilation Duct Insulation. All supply ducts in
the conditioned space shall be insulated to a minimum of R-4.
M1508.5.4 Outdoor Air Inlets. Inlets shall be screened or
otherwise protected from entry by leaves or other material.
Outdoor air inlets shall be located so as not to take air from
the following areas:
1. Closer than 10 feet from an appliance vent outlet, unless such vent outlet is 3 feet above the outdoor air inlet.
2. Where it will pick up objectionable odors, fumes or flammable vapors.
3. A hazardous or unsanitary location.
4. A room or space having any fuel-burning appliances therein.
5. Closer than 10 feet from a vent opening of a plumbing drainage system unless the vent opening is at least 3 feet above the air inlet.
6. Attic, crawl spaces, or garages.
M1508.6. Intermittent Whole House Ventilation Using a Supply
Fan. This section establishes minimum prescriptive
requirements for intermittent whole house ventilation systems
using an inline supply fan. A system which meets all the
requirements of this section shall be deemed to satisfy the
requirements for a whole house ventilation system.
M1508.6.1 Outdoor Air. Supply fan ventilation systems shall
distribute outdoor air to each habitable room through the
forced-air system ducts or through dedicated ducts to each
habitable room. Supply fans shall have the capacity to
provide the amount of outdoor air specified in Table M1508.2
at 0.40 inches water gauge as per HVI 916 (April 1995). The
outdoor air must be filtered before it is delivered to
habitable rooms. The filter may be located at the intake
device, in line with the fan, or, in the case of a connection
to the return plenum of the air handler, using the furnace
filter. An outdoor air inlet shall be connected to either the
supply or return air stream.
M1508.6.2 Ducts. An outdoor air inlet duct connection to the
supply air stream shall be located downstream of the
forced-air system blower. An outdoor air inlet duct
connection to the return air stream shall be located at least
4 feet upstream of the forced-air system blower and its
filter. Neither type of duct shall be connected directly into
a furnace cabinet to prevent thermal shock to the heat
exchanger. The outdoor air inlet duct shall be prescriptively
sized in accordance with Table M1508.6.2. The terminal
element on the outside of the building shall be sized 2 inches
in diameter larger than the outdoor air inlet duct.
| Supply Fan Tested cfm at 0.40" wg | ||
| Specified Volume from Table 1508.2 | Minimum Smooth Duct Diameter | Minimum Flexible Duct Diameter |
| 50 - 90 cfm | 4 inch | 5 inch |
| 90 - 150 cfm | 5 inch | 6 inch |
| 150 - 250 cfm | 6 inch | 7 inch |
| 250 - 400 cfm | 7 inch | 8 inch |
1. A calibrated manual volume damper installed and set to meet the measured flow rates specified in Table M1508.2 by field testing with a pressure gauge and/or following manufacturer's installation instructions; or
2. A manual volume damper installed and set to meet the measured flow rates specified in Table M1508.2 by field testing with a flow hood or a flow measuring station; or
3. An automatic flow-regulating device sized to the specified flow rates in Table M1508.2 which provides constant flow over a pressure range of 0.20 to 0.60 inches water gauge.
M1508.6.4 Ventilation Controls. The whole house ventilation
system shall be controlled by a 24-hour clock timer with the
capability of continuous operation, manual and automatic
control. This will control the inline supply fan. The
24-hour timer shall be readily accessible. The 24 hour timer
shall be capable of operating the whole house ventilation
system without energizing other energy-consuming appliances.
At the time of final inspection, the automatic control timer
shall be set to operate the whole house system for at least 8
hours a day. A label shall be affixed to the control that
reads "Whole House Ventilation (see operating instructions)."
M1508.6.5 Ventilation Duct Insulation. All supply ducts in
the conditioned space shall be insulated to a minimum of R-4.
M1508.6.6 Outdoor Air Inlets. Inlets shall be screened or
otherwise protected from entry by leaves or other material.
Outdoor air inlets shall be located so as not to take air from
the following areas:
1. Closer than 10 feet from an appliance vent outlet, unless such vent outlet is 3 feet above the outdoor air inlet.
2. Where it will pick up objectionable odors, fumes or flammable vapors.
3. A hazardous or unsanitary location.
4. A room or space having any fuel-burning appliances therein.
5. Closer than 10 feet from a vent opening of a plumbing drainage system unless the vent opening is at least 3 feet above the air inlet.
6. Attic, crawl spaces, or garages.
M1508.7 Intermittent Whole House Ventilation Using a Heat
Recovery Ventilation System. This section establishes minimum
prescriptive requirements for intermittent whole house
ventilation using a heat recovery ventilation system.
M1508.7.1 Heat Recovery Ventilation Systems. All duct work in
heat recovery systems shall be sized and installed per the
manufacturer's instructions. System minimum flow rating shall
be not less than that specified in Table M1508.2. Heat
recovery ventilation systems shall have a filter on the
upstream side of the heat exchanger in both the intake and
exhaust airstreams with a minimum efficiency ratings value
(MERV) of 6.
M1508.7.2 Ventilation Controls. The whole house ventilation
system shall be controlled by a 24-hour clock timer with the
capability of continuous operation, manual and automatic
control. This control will control the inline supply fan.
The 24-hour timer shall be readily accessible. The 24-hour
timer shall be capable of operating the whole house
ventilation system without energizing other energy-consuming
appliances. At the time of final inspection, the automatic
control timer shall be set to operate the whole house system
for at least 8 hours a day. A label shall be affixed to the
control that reads "Whole House Ventilation (see operating
instructions)."
M1508.7.3 Ventilation Duct Insulation. All supply ducts in
the conditioned space installed upstream of the heat exchanger
shall be insulated to a minimum of R-4.
M1508.7.4 Outdoor Air Inlets. Inlets shall be screened or
otherwise protected from entry by leaves or other material.
Outdoor air inlets shall be located so as not to take air from
the following areas:
1. Closer than 10 feet from an appliance vent outlet, unless such vent outlet is 3 feet above the outdoor air inlet.
2. Where it will pick up objectionable odors, fumes or flammable vapors.
3. A hazardous or unsanitary location.
4. A room or space having any fuel-burning appliances therein.
5. Closer than 10 feet from a vent opening of a plumbing drainage system unless the vent opening is at least 3 feet above the air inlet.
6. Attic, crawl spaces, or garages.
[]
M1601.1.1 Above-ground duct systems. Above-ground duct
systems shall conform to the following:
1. Equipment connected to duct systems shall be designed to limit discharge air temperature to a maximum of 250°F (121°C).
2. Factory-made air ducts shall be constructed of Class 0 or Class 1 materials as designated in Table M1601.1.1(1).
3. Fibrous duct construction shall conform to the SMACNA Fibrous Glass Duct Construction Standards or NAIMA Fibrous Glass Duct Construction Standards.
4. Minimum thickness of metal duct material shall be as listed in Table M1601.1.1(2). Galvanized steel shall conform to ASTM A 653.
5. Use of gypsum products to construct return air ducts or plenums is permitted, provided that the air temperature does not exceed 125°F (52°C) and exposed surfaces are not subject to condensation.
6. Duct systems shall be constructed of materials having a flame spread index not greater than 200.
7. Stud wall cavities and the spaces between solid floor joists shall not be used as a duct or an air plenum in new construction. For existing systems, stud wall cavities and the spaces between solid floor joists to be used as air plenums shall comply with the following:
7.1. These cavities or spaces shall not be used as a plenum for supply air.
7.2. These cavities or spaces shall not be part of a required fire-resistance-rated assembly.
7.3. Stud wall cavities shall not convey air from more than one floor level.
7.4. Stud wall cavities and joist-space plenums shall be isolated from adjacent concealed spaces by tight-fitting fire blocking in accordance with Section R602.8.
[]
M1701.1 Scope. Solid-fuel-burning appliances shall be
provided with combustion air in accordance with the appliance
manufacturer's installation instructions. Oil-fired
appliances shall be provided with combustion air in accordance
with NFPA 31. The methods of providing combustion air in this
chapter do not apply to fireplaces, fireplace stoves and
direct-vent appliances. The requirements for combustion and
dilution air for gas-fired appliances shall be in accordance
with Chapter 24.
Fireplaces shall comply with Section 1001.
[]
((G2439.5.3 Protection required. Plates or clips shall be
placed where nails or screws from finish or other work are
likely to penetrate the clothes dryer exhaust duct. Plates or
clips shall be placed on the finished face of all framing
members where there is less than 1 1/4 inches (32 mm) between
the duct and the finished face of the framing material. The
plate or clip shall be steel not less than 1/16 inch (1.59 mm)
in thickness and of sufficient width to protect the duct.))
Reserved.
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.190, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 08-01-102, § 51-51-2439, filed 12/18/07, effective 4/1/08.]
STANDARD TEST METHOD FOR PARTICULATE EMISSIONS FROM FIREPLACES
Standard is located in International Building Code, Chapter 35
[Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.074, 19.27.020, and chapters 19.27 and 34.05 RCW. 07-01-090, § 51-51-4300, filed 12/19/06, effective 7/1/07. Statutory Authority: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074. 04-01-109, § 51-51-4300, filed 12/17/03, effective 7/1/04.]
AR105.1 General. Where installed, residential fire sprinkler
systems, or portions thereof, shall be in accordance with NFPA
13D or Appendix R, which shall be considered equivalent to
NFPA 13D. Appendix R shall apply to stand-alone and
multipurpose wet-pipe sprinkler systems that do not include
the use of antifreeze. A multipurpose fire sprinkler system
shall supply domestic water to both fire sprinklers and
plumbing fixtures. A stand-alone sprinkler system shall be
separate and independent from the water distribution system.
AR105.1.1 Required sprinkler locations. Sprinklers shall be
installed to protect all areas of a dwelling unit.
| EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Attics, crawl spaces and normally unoccupied concealed spaces that do not contain fuel-fired appliances do not require sprinklers. In attics, crawl spaces and normally unoccupied concealed spaces that contain fuel-fired equipment, a sprinkler shall be installed above the equipment; however, sprinklers shall not be required in the remainder of the space. |
| 2. Clothes closets, linen closets and pantries not exceeding 24 square feet (2.2 m2) in area, with the smallest dimension not greater than 3 feet (915 mm) and having wall and ceiling surfaces of gypsum board. | |
| 3. Bathrooms not more than 55 square feet (5.1 m2) in area. | |
| 4. Garages; carports; exterior porches; unheated entry areas, such as mud rooms, that are adjacent to an exterior door; and similar areas. |
AR105.2.1 Temperature rating and separation from heat sources. Except as provided for in Section AR105.2.2, sprinklers shall
have a temperature rating of not less than 135°F (57°C) and
not more than 170°F (77°C). Sprinklers shall be separated
from heat sources as required by the sprinkler manufacturer's
installation instructions.
AR105.2.2 Intermediate temperature sprinklers. Sprinklers
shall have an intermediate temperature rating not less than
175°F (79°C) and not more than 225°F (107°C) where installed in
the following locations:
1. Directly under skylights, where the sprinkler is exposed to direct sunlight.
2. In attics.
3. In concealed spaces located directly beneath a roof.
4. Within the distance to a heat source as specified in Table AR105.2.2.
AR105.2.3 Freezing areas. Piping shall be protected from
freezing. Where sprinklers are required in areas that are
subject to freezing, dry-side-wall or dry-pendent sprinklers
extending from a nonfreezing area into a freezing area shall
be installed.
| HEAT SOURCE | RANGE OF DISTANCE
FROM HEAT SOURCE
WITHIN WHICH
INTERMEDIATE
TEMPERATURE
SPRINKLERS ARE
REQUIRED a,b (inches) |
| Fireplace, side of open or recessed fireplace | 12 to 36 |
| Fireplace, front of recessed fireplace | 36 to 60 |
| Coal and wood burning stove | 12 to 42 |
| Kitchen range top | 9 to 18 |
| Oven | 9 to 18 |
| Vent connector or chimney connector | 9 to 18 |
| Heating duct, not insulated | 9 to 18 |
| Hot water pipe, not insulated | 6 to 12 |
| Side of ceiling or wall warm air register | 12 to 24 |
| Front of wall mounted warm air register | 18 to 36 |
| Water heater, furnace or boiler | 3 to 6 |
| Luminaire up to 250 watts | 3 to 6 |
| Luminaire 250 watts up to 499 watts | 6 to 12 |
a. Sprinklers shall not be located at distances less than the minimum table distance unless the sprinkler listing allows a lesser distance.
b. Distances shall be measured in a straight line from the
nearest edge of the heat source to the nearest edge of the
sprinkler.
AR105.2.4 Sprinkler coverage. Sprinkler coverage requirements
and sprinkler obstruction requirements shall be in accordance
with Sections AR105.2.4.1 and AR105.2.4.2.
AR105.2.4.1 Coverage area limit. The area of coverage of a
single sprinkler shall not exceed 400 square feet (37 m2) and
shall be based on the sprinkler listing and the sprinkler
manufacturer's installation instructions.
AR105.2.4.2 Obstructions to coverage. Sprinkler discharge
shall not be blocked by obstructions unless additional
sprinklers are installed to protect the obstructed area.
Sprinkler separation from obstructions shall comply with the
minimum distances specified in the sprinkler manufacturer's
instructions.
AR105.2.4.2.1 Additional requirements for pendent sprinklers.
Pendent sprinklers within 3 feet (915 mm) of the center of a
ceiling fan, surface-mounted ceiling luminaire or similar
object shall be considered to be obstructed, and additional
sprinklers shall be installed.
AR105.2.4.2.2 Additional requirements for sidewall sprinklers.
Sidewall sprinklers within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the center of a
ceiling fan, surface-mounted ceiling luminaire or similar
object shall be considered to be obstructed, and additional
sprinklers shall be installed.
AR105.2.5 Sprinkler installation on systems assembled with
solvent cement. The solvent cementing of threaded adapter
fittings shall be completed and threaded adapters for
sprinklers shall be verified as being clear of excess cement
prior to the installation of sprinklers on systems assembled
with solvent cement.
AR105.2.6 Sprinkler modifications prohibited. Painting,
caulking or modifying of sprinklers shall be prohibited.
Sprinklers that have been painted, caulked, modified or
damaged shall be replaced with new sprinklers.
AR105.3 Sprinkler piping system. Sprinkler piping shall be
supported in accordance with the requirements for cold water
distribution piping. Sprinkler piping shall comply with all
requirements for cold water distribution piping. For
multipurpose piping systems, the sprinkler piping shall
connect to and be a part of the cold water distribution piping
system.
AR105.3.1 Nonmetallic pipe and tubing. Nonmetallic pipe and
tubing, such as CPVC and PEX, shall be listed for use in
residential fire sprinkler systems.
AR105.3.1.1 Nonmetallic pipe protection. Nonmetallic pipe and
tubing systems shall be protected from exposure to the living
space by a layer of not less than 3/8-inch (9.5 mm) thick
gypsum wallboard, 1/2-inch thick plywood (13 mm), or other
material having a 15-minute fire rating.
| EXCEPTIONS: | 1. Pipe protection shall not be required in areas that do not require protection with sprinklers as specified in Section AR105.1.1. |
| 2. Pipe protection shall not be required where exposed piping is permitted by the pipe listing. |
AR105.3.3 Single dwelling limit. Piping beyond the service
valve located at the beginning of the water distribution
system shall not serve more than one dwelling.
AR105.3.4 Drain. A means to drain the sprinkler system shall
be provided on the system side of the water distribution
shutoff valve.
AR105.4 Determining system design flow. The flow for sizing
the sprinkler piping system shall be based on the flow rating
of each sprinkler in accordance with Section AR105.4.1 and the
calculation in accordance with Section AR105.4.2.
AR105.4.1 Determining required flow rate for each sprinkler.
The minimum required flow for each sprinkler shall be
determined using the sprinkler manufacturer's published data
for the specific sprinkler model based on all of the
following:
1. The area of coverage.
2. The ceiling configuration.
3. The temperature rating.
4. Any additional conditions specified by the sprinkler manufacturer.
AR105.4.2 System design flow rate. The design flow rate for
the system shall be based on the following:
1. The design flow rate for a room having only one sprinkler shall be the flow rate required for that sprinkler, as determined by Section AR105.4.1.
2. The design flow rate for a room having two or more sprinklers shall be determined by identifying the sprinkler in that room with the highest required flow rate, based on Section AR105.4.1, and multiplying that flow rate by 2.
3. Where the sprinkler manufacturer specifies different criteria for ceiling configurations that are not smooth, flat and horizontal, the required flow rate for that room shall comply with the sprinkler manufacturer's instructions.
4. The design flow rate for the sprinkler system shall be the flow required by the room with the largest flow rate, based on Items 1, 2 and 3.
5. For the purpose of this section, it shall be permissible to reduce the design flow rate for a room by subdividing the space into two or more rooms, where each room is evaluated separately with respect to the required design flow rate. Each room shall be bounded by walls and a ceiling. Openings in walls shall have a lintel not less than 8 inches (203 mm) in depth and each lintel shall form a solid barrier between the ceiling and the top of the opening.
AR105.5 Water supply. The water supply shall provide not less
than the required design flow rate for sprinklers in
accordance with Section AR105.4.2 at a pressure not less than
that used to comply with Section AR105.6.
AR105.5.1 Water supply from individual sources. Where a
dwelling unit water supply is from a tank system, a private
well system or a combination of these, the available water
supply shall be based on the minimum pressure control setting
for the pump.
AR105.5.2 Required capacity. The water supply shall have the
capacity to provide the required design flow rate for
sprinklers for a period of time as follows:
1. 7 minutes for dwelling units one story in height and less than 2,000 square feet (186 m2) in area.
2. 10 minutes for dwelling units two or more stories in height or equal to or greater than 2,000 square feet (186 m2) in area.
Where a well system, a water supply tank system or a combination thereof is used, any combination of well capacity and tank storage shall be permitted to meet the capacity requirement.
AR105.6 Pipe sizing. The piping to sprinklers shall be sized
for the flow required by Section AR105.4.2. The flow required
to supply the plumbing fixtures shall not be required to be
added to the sprinkler design flow.
AR105.6.1 Method of sizing pipe. Piping supplying sprinklers
shall be sized using the prescriptive method in Section
AR105.6.2 or by hydraulic calculation in accordance with NFPA
13D. The minimum pipe size from the water supply source to
any sprinkler shall be 3/4 inch (19 mm) nominal. Threaded
adapter fittings at the point where sprinklers are attached to
the piping shall be a minimum of 1/2 inch (13 mm) nominal.
AR105.6.2 Prescriptive pipe sizing method. Pipe shall be
sized by determining the available pressure to offset friction
loss in piping and identifying a piping material, diameter and
length using the equation in Section AR105.6.2.1 and the
procedure in Section AR105.6.2.2.
AR105.6.2.1 Available pressure equation. The pressure
available to offset friction loss in the interior piping
system (Pt) shall be determined in accordance with Equation
AR-1.
| Pt = Psup - PLsvc - PLm - PLd - PLe - Psp |
| Pt | = | Pressure used in applying Tables AR105.6.2(4) through AR105.6.2(9). |
| Psup | = | Pressure available from the water supply source. |
| PLsvc | = | Pressure loss in the water-service pipe. |
| PLm | = | Pressure loss in the water meter. |
| PLd | = | Pressure loss from devices other than the water meter. |
| PLe | = | Pressure loss associated with changes in elevation. |
| Psp | = | Maximum pressure required by a sprinkler. |
Step 1 - Determine Psup
Obtain the static supply pressure that will be available from the water main from the water purveyor, or for an individual source, the available supply pressure shall be in accordance with Section AR105.5.1.
Step 2 - Determine PLsvc
Use Table 2904.6.2(1) to determine the pressure loss in the water service pipe based on the selected size of the water service.
Step 3 - Determine PLm
Use Table 2904.6.2(2) to determine the pressure loss from the water meter, based on the selected water meter size.
Step 4 - Determine PLd
Determine the pressure loss from devices other than the water meter installed in the piping system supplying sprinklers, such as pressure-reducing valves, backflow preventers, water softeners or water filters. Device pressure losses shall be based on the device manufacturer's specifications. The flow rate used to determine pressure loss shall be the rate from Section AR105.4.2, except that 5 gpm (0.3 L/S) shall be added where the device is installed in a water-service pipe that supplies more than one dwelling. As alternative to deducting pressure loss for a device, an automatic bypass valve shall be installed to divert flow around the device when a sprinkler activates.
Step 5 - Determine PLe
Use Table 2904.6.2(3) to determine the pressure loss associated with changes in elevation. The elevation used in applying the table shall be the difference between the elevation where the water source pressure was measured and the elevation of the highest sprinkler.
Step 6 - Determine Psp
Determine the maximum pressure required by any individual sprinkler based on the flow rate from Section AR105.4.1. The required pressure is provided in the sprinkler manufacturer's published data for the specific sprinkler model based on the selected flow rate.
Step 7 - Calculate Pt
Using Equation AR-1, calculate the pressure available to offset friction loss in water-distribution piping between the service valve and the sprinklers.
Step 8 - Determine the maximum allowable pipe length
Use Tables P2904.6.2(4) through P2904.6.2(9) to select a material and size for water distribution piping. The piping material and size shall be acceptable if the developed length of pipe between the service valve and the most remote sprinkler does not exceed the maximum allowable length specified by the applicable table. Interpolation of Pt between the tabular values shall be permitted.
The maximum allowable length of piping in Tables P2904.6.2(4) through P2904.6.2(9) incorporates an adjustment for pipe fittings, and no additional consideration of friction losses associated with pipe fittings shall be required.
AR105.7 Instructions and signs. An owner's manual for the
fire sprinkler system shall be provided to the owner. A sign
or valve tag shall be installed at the main shutoff valve to
the water distribution system stating the following:
"Warning, the water system for this home supplies fire
sprinklers that require certain flows and pressures to fight a
fire. Devices that restrict the flow or decrease the pressure
or automatically shutoff the water to the fire sprinkler
system, such as water softeners, filtration systems and
automatic shutoff valves, shall not be added to this system
without a review of the fire sprinkler system by a fire
protection specialist. Do not remove this sign."
AR105.8 Inspections. The water distribution system shall be
inspected in accordance with Sections AR105.8.1 and AR105.8.2.
AR105.8.1 Preconcealment Inspection. The following items
shall be verified prior to the concealment of any sprinkler
system piping:
1. Sprinklers are installed in all areas as required by Section AR105.1.1.
2. Where sprinkler water spray patterns are obstructed by construction features, luminaires or ceiling fans, additional sprinklers are installed as required by Section AR105.2.4.2.
3. Sprinklers are the correct temperature rating and are installed at or beyond the required separation distances from heat sources as required by Sections AR105.2.1 and AR105.2.2.
4. The pipe size equals or exceeds the size used in applying Tables P2904.6.2(4) through P2904.6.2(9) or, if the piping system was hydraulically calculated in accordance with Section AR105.6.1, the size used in the hydraulic calculation.
5. The pipe length does not exceed the length permitted by Tables AR105.6.2(4) through AR105.6.2(9) or, if the piping system was hydraulically calculated in accordance with Section AR105.6.1, pipe lengths and fittings do not exceed those used in the hydraulic calculation.
6. Nonmetallic piping that conveys water to sprinklers is listed for use with fire sprinklers.
7. Piping is supported in accordance with the pipe manufacturer's and sprinkler manufacturer's installation instructions.
8. The piping system is tested in accordance with the plumbing code.
AR105.8.2 Final inspection. The following items shall be
verified upon completion of the system:
1. Sprinklers are not painted, damaged or otherwise hindered from operation.
2. Where a pump is required to provide water to the system, the pump starts automatically upon system water demand.
3. Pressure-reducing valves, water softeners, water filters or other impairments to water flow that were not part of the original design have not been installed.
4. The sign or valve tag required by Section AR105.7 is installed and the owner's manual for the system is present.
[]
AS107.1 Fire sprinklers. An approved automatic fire sprinkler
system shall be installed in new one-family and two-family
dwellings and townhouses in accordance with Section 903.3.1 of
the 2009 International Building Code.
[]
The following sections of the Washington Administrative
Code are decodified as follows:
| Old WAC Number | New WAC Number |
| 51-51-0613 | 51-51-0612 |
| 51-51-4300 | 51-51-4400 |