• Welcome to The Building Code Forum

    Your premier resource for building code knowledge.

    This forum remains free to the public thanks to the generous support of our Sawhorse Members and Corporate Sponsors. Their contributions help keep this community thriving and accessible.

    Want enhanced access to expert discussions and exclusive features? Learn more about the benefits here.

    Ready to upgrade? Log in and upgrade now.

Townhomes parapet requirements?

chrisrog

REGISTERED
Joined
Jul 22, 2021
Messages
29
Location
Alabama
I've posted this in the Residential Building Codes forum where it probably technically belongs, but am cross posting here because designers, builders, or code officials involved in multi-family might be more likely to know the answer vs those who only specialize in residential.

Project is a row of 6 townhomes - 2015 IRC applies.

I'm using Common walls between units with a 2 hour rating. Per R302.2.2 and R302.2.3, the rating is continued tight to the underside of the roof sheathing.
As I read the code, there is therefore no requirement for a parapet extending through the deck.

I see in R302.2.4 where you can eliminate a required parapet by sheathing the underside of the deck in Type X for 4' on either side of the common wall.
What I don't see in the code is language that defines when a parapet is required. R302.2.4 is full of language that defines the rules for parapets when they are required, but what triggers them to be required in the first place?

Quote Reply
Report
 
It is included for all townhouses except those with a height on one side >30" (then it is a 1-hr wall) , then excepted as you note. I think the language is a little backwards from the norm but it is there.

2015 IRC 302.2.2 "Parapets constructed in accordance with Section R302.2.3 shall be constructed for townhouses as an extension of exterior walls or common walls....".
 
I see in R302.2.4 where you can eliminate a required parapet by sheathing the underside of the deck in Type X for 4' on either side of the common wall.
What I don't see in the code is language that defines when a parapet is required. R302.2.4 is full of language that defines the rules for parapets when they are required, but what triggers them to be required in the first place?

Quote Reply
Report
Not sure the code reference is correct...my book does not show the same info in 302.2.4 as you state. In my book, 302.2.4 is for structural independence.
 
Not sure the code reference is correct...my book does not show the same info in 302.2.4 as you state. In my book, 302.2.4 is for structural independence.
Sorry, I was looking at 2018 IRC....although 2015 applies to this project.
 
Back
Top