Select Changes in the 2012 WA State Building Code

October 2013

by Mike Showalter

The 2012 Washington State Building Code has been in effect since July 1, 2013.  Our last Bulletin gave an overview of the revision process and some examples of what to expect in the new code.  Following are select revisions updated from the 2009 IRC.

R507 Decks Modification:  All deck provisions have been relocated to a new section. Provisions related to placement of bolts and lags for deck ledge attachment to the band joist have been revised to correlate to the NDS.

R612.3 Testing and labeling exceptions:  1. Decorative glazed openings; 2. Custom exterior windows and doors manufactured by a small business shall be exempt from all testing requirements in Section R612 provided they meet the applicable provisions of Chapter 24 of the International Building Code.

R703.8 Flashing:  Approved corrosion-resistant flashing shall be installed at all of the following locations:  Exterior window and door openings. Flashing at exterior window and door openings shall extend to the surface of the exterior wall finish or to the water resistive barrier for subsequent drainage. Pan flashing is now required for window and door openings when flashing details are not provided by the manufacturer.

R903.4.1 Secondary (emergency overflow) drains or scuppers:  Where roof drains are required, secondary emergency overflow drains or scuppers shall be provided where the roof perimeter construction extends above the roof in such a manner that water will be entrapped if the primary drains allow buildup or any reason...The installation and sizing of overflow drains, leaders and conductors shall comply with the plumbing code.

R905.2.8.5 Roof Drip Edge Addition:  A roof drip edge is now required for asphalt shingles.

Be sure to review and keep up with changing codes and building practices.  For the 2012 WA State Building Code amendments go to  https://fortress.wa.gov/ga/apps/sbcc/Page.aspx?nid=14

Washington State Construction Codes Update

June 2013

by Bryce Given

The 2012 International Code Council (ICC) Model Building codes for commercial and residential construction projects have been reviewed, revised and adopted by the State Building Code Council in Washington.  These Codes are revised every three years following the ICC 3-year revision cycle.  The select codes currently in use in most Washington jurisdictions are the 2009 International Building Code (IBC) and the International Residential Code (IRC).    

Washington's State Building Code Council (SBCC), along with its Technical Advisory Group, reviews the ICC model codes, holds public hearings, and makes the final determination on acceptance.  Public hearings for amending the 2009 Codes to the 2012 version have already occurred and the SBCC has completed its adoption process.   The 2012 Codes will be effective July 1, 2013.    

Following is a list of some of the new revisions found in the 2012 WA State Building Code. 

R302, Fire resistant construction requires fire protection at five-foot separation from lot lines. 

R303.4, Requires minimum performance for whole house ventilation systems. 

R315, Carbon monoxide alarms, detection and installation requirements revisions. 

R326, Amends provisions for adult family homes to reference standards for accessible design. 

R501.3, New regulations for fire protection of floors. 

R507.2.2 & 507.2.3, Allows alternate methods of deck ledger connections. 

R612, Exempts small business manufacturers from required testing of windows and glass doors. 

Be prepared for these revisions and more.  Adopted versions of the 2012 codes are posted on the website at https://fortress.wa.gov/ga/apps/sbcc/Page.aspx?nid=14