What is Building to Code and the Changes to Georgia Deck Code

What is Building to Code and the Changes to Georgia Deck Code

what is building to code and what are recent changes to georgia deck codeWhen having residential or commercial construction done, it is common to hear the term of 'being built to code.' What does this mean for your home or the public places you occupy? Building something to code means a builder and building contractor followed a collection of laws, regulations, ordinances or other statutory requirements. These rules are adopted by the governmental legislative authority that is involved in assuring the adequacy of the physical structures and healthy conditions of buildings, homes and objects.

Building codes provide safeguards and ensure consistency in the construction industry. We all deserve to have protection from harm due to fire, structural collapse and deterioration in our homes, offices, schools, stores and places of work and entertainment. Building codes comprise all aspects of building construction. Things such as structural items, fire and radon prevention, as well as plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems all lie within the constraints of building code.

Independent inspection during building construction is the only way to verify that the builder and building contractors have complied with the all codes. Prior to the local government issuing an occupancy certificate in homes or places of work, building inspections are conducted to verify compliance to the minimum standards. Building codes provide a way to reduce risks to a satisfactory level although no code can totally eliminate all potential hazards. The only way home and business owners can ensure a safe and hazardous-free building is to confirm the proper building design, construction techniques and practices and effective code administration and verification programs were implemented.

As the homeowner, you may be wondering what building code has to do with the building of your home or home repairs. Particularly, Georgia residence will need to understand the new building codes for decks. Implemented in 2014, Georgia now has minimum standards of how decks for single span, single level residential decks must be constructed.

If you are looking to repair your deck that's frame is in what you believe to be satisfactory condition, don't be surprised if you are required to tear down the entire structure and start over, building it to code. What is the new deck code? Simply put, there is not enough time or space to convey the twenty-two page Prescriptive Deck Detail document, but we break down a few important aspects you as a homeowner should know.

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If you have a deck project in your near future, always ask your contractor how familiar they are with the new deck code. A certified contractor will know exactly what you're talking about.

Here are a few other points to keep in mind:

  • The new deck code amends the 2012 International Residential Code for one and two family homes
  • A copy of the deck detail must be on the job site and available to the inspector during each required inspection - this could be up to four inspections
  • For increased deck safety, deck ledger attachments, rail post attachments and sizes, lateral supports, lamination of stairs and wood spans are all highlights to the changes now in effect

EXOVATIONS of Atlanta has been at the forefront of these new deck code changes. Each and every deck project we complete implements the new deck code and specifically follows existing code as we always have. Although Georgia is one of the first states to adopt the 2012 International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC), many states will soon follow. The safety of our customers, their families and our team members is always our number one priority.

If you would like to discuss options for building a new deck or replacing an existing one, please contact us for a free quote.

EXOVATIONS Service Area

Our team is dedicated to providing stress-free home exterior services on time and on budget. As a Georgia-based company, we have worked for years throughout these cities and their surrounding areas, building a reputation as a trustworthy remodeling company that customers can rely on. Our friendly staff is here to provide suggestions and resources to ensure the job gets done in the most efficient manner, so you can save time and energy when tackling your next project.

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