Codes Corner
Excerpts from some of ICC's most beneficial code publications and resources
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CODE UPDATE | Significant Code Changes to the 2012 IECC
(The information below is excerpted from the Significant Changes to the 2012 International Codes series.)
Functional lighting control testing is now required as a part of the commissioning process. For most large commercial projects, this testing requirement is similar to the standard closeout/punch list procedures. The significant change is that the design professional is responsible for identifying the party who will do the testing, the plan reviewer is responsible to see that the party is named, and the inspector now has a contact to ensure compliance prior to approving the final occupancy.

Click to continue reading more on this update to the 2012 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
            The Significant Changes to the 2012 International Codes series is designed to assist code officials, architects, engineers and other construction professionals transitioning from the 2009 to the 2012 editions of the International Codes. Authored by ICC code experts, the series offers a comprehensive yet practical analysis of hundreds of the most critical changes. Each color publication contains: revised code text; a summary of each change listed; in-depth change analysis; and a detailed photo, illustration or table for each change to deepen understanding. Coverage reflects provisions with special significance, including new and innovative design ideas and technologies, modern materials and methods of construction, and current approaches to safety and stability.
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CODE BASICS | Residential, Based on the 2012 International Residential Code
(The information below is excerpted from the 2012 Building Code Basics series.)
To stop the spread of fire in concealed spaces of wood frame construction, fireblocking is required to form an effective barrier between stories and between the top story and the attic. Concealed spaces of stud walls and partitions require fireblocking vertically at the ceiling and floor levels.

Click to continue reading more on this excerpt from the Building Code Basics: Residential, Based on the 2012 IRC.
       The Building Code Basics series explains requirements using non-code language. Technically accurate and easy to understand, these are the perfect resources for builders, owners, students, plan reviewers, inspectors and permit technicians. Each book contains: 150-plus color diagrams and photos that help readers visualize correct code application; numerous real-world examples; content that pulls together related information from various code sections into one convenient location; and a glossary of code and construction terms to clarify key terminology.
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CODE HANDBOOK | 2012 International Building Code Handbook
(The information below is excerpted from the 2012 International Building Code Handbook.)
The definition of building area is the area included within the surrounding exterior walls of the building, and the definition further states that the floor area of a building or portion thereof not provided with surrounding exterior walls shall be the usable area under the horizontal projection of the roof or floor above.

Click to continue reading more on this excerpt from the 2012 International Building Code Handbook.
The 2012 International Building Code Handbook is a comprehensive, full-color guide to the entire 2012 International Building Code (IBC). Authored by ICC code experts and published by McGraw-Hill to assist code officials, architects and engineers in understanding the code, this publication covers both structural and fire- and life-safety provisions. This time-saving resource makes it easy to understand and apply complex IBC requirements and achieve compliance.
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