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Is it the intent that an Attic areas having a ceiling height 7′ and larger than 70 sq ft, that a vertical egress (R311.4) be provided even though it will only be used as storage?
In item 1 under the definition of ‘habitable attic’, I read that the 70 sq ft floor area would need to be used for living space and be equal to or greater that 70 sq ft in order to comply with R304.
if you consider ‘habitable space’ does not include storage, utility etc. by definition, then how could you have a habitable attic used for storage?
Yes, also code section 305.1 exception 1, even 50 percent of the floor area at 7 feet and no other portion of the required area may have a ceiling height of less than 5 feet.
and 310.1 shall have a egress.
and 314.3 shall have a smoke alarm.
To my understanding, it is up to the home owner weather they use this area as storage or habitable space, the code is requiring these measures be placed because the space meets the use of habitable space and it could be used in the future. The code is not stating that this area has to be finish, just the safety aspects be in placed.
Mark Bolt
So if a truss area has the require ceiling height but they are only putting in a pull down attic stair, located in a room or hallway, then they must upgrade the floor loading of trusses and install the required egress ie. by putting in a stairway?
No, if the truss are not approved for the bottom cord to carry a live load of at lest 30psf, the code section does not apply.
To my understanding of the code, if someone has a home under construction and the 2nd floor, or habitable attic is built to carry a live load of 30psf or greater it needs to comply with the definition of attic, habitable as stated in chapter 2 of the Virginia Residential Code.
Some homes are built and the certificate of occupancy is approved with unfinished basements and unfinished attic/2nd floor. The building code is just looking out for those who finishes these areas at a latter date, that they have an safe egress, fire protection (smoke alarm), and an emergency escape and rescue opening.
Please see table R 301.5 minimum uniformly distributed live loads. i hope this helps, have have a blessed day.
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