What you think about building codes?

Question

Write anything you know and think about it!

Answer 1

Building codes are mostly a compilation of experience. Each and every requirement is there for a reason. Some sections of the code assure structural and mechanical integrity in the construction without requiring the builder to hire an engineer for every job. Other sections define human factors considerations such as the dimensions for stairs and the height of the handrail. Still other sections address safety considerations.

Many times communities adapt building codes for local conditions. For example, California has additional requirements for earthquake resistance. Another example is that the code for the design of a roof for snow loading is much different in Colorado than in Florida.

You are most likely to find substandard construction in third world countries where building codes do not exist or are not enforced. Sometimes the results can be disastrous, as when an earthquake strikes and thousands of lives are lost from building collapse.

Answer 2

Some are absolutely necessary and some are completely ridiculous. Europe and the rest of the world don't have nearly as many codes as we do and they don't have anymore problems then we do. Our standard house hold voltage s 120 where the rest of the worlds is at least 240.

In some cities like Chicago and New York there are the most ridiculous codes that were implemented by many Unions. Payoffs still happen today in these cities because no one can meet the standards they ask for.

With that being said, if we didn't have some strict codes there would be a lot more accidents. Most codes are there to protect "Stupid" people. "Do not place iron in bath tub" or the one I deal with all the time "Turn power off before servicing" If you don't know that you deserve to get shocked.

Answer 3

As an independent contractor, I can tell you first hand that when Harry Homeowner gets out his tool box and plays "This Old House" - the results are not always at even a minimum requirement for basic structural integrity or safety. I just inspected a two story porch that is litterally falling off the house - it is presently leaning out on the lower deck by almost 9"!
It is only a matter of time before it collapses completely - perhaps with a little help from old man winter and a good snow load. It was built about a dozen years ago by the previous owner.
The building codes are absolutely necessary to assure that the "my cousin once painted houses, he'll know how to build it" mentality doesn't go from plan to reality without at least some basic rules to follow.

Answer 4

A lot of people assume that if something works, it was well built, but that's often not the case. I've wired some houses (Expensive ones in the suburbs) that I wouldn't want to live in after seeing what it looks like before the drywall goes up. A lot of contractors will rush or cut corners, so the codes are adjusted to account for the margin of error that results.

Some violations are extremely dangerous: Ground rods are eight feet long and supposed to be pounded into the ground with no more than six inches above ground, but I've seen a couple of electricians cut the rod with a hacksaw to save time. Some don't seem like a big deal but can be in the long run. A junction box for an outlet is supposed to have at least six inches of wire past the edge of the box, but some people cut them short if the box is crowded. It will still work, but when something needs to be replaced in the future, there won't be enough to work with, and in some cases you'll have to tear part of the wall out and move the outlet.

Answer 5

It assures a minimum building standard so that a bunch of buildings that fall down are not built.