New construction question - InspectionNews

william siegel · #1 (**permalink**) 09-20-2007, 05:50 PM

There is a step up fromm the driveway to the walk, but then it is level to the front door. Is there a code that requires a step up at the front door. I can see water flooding this unit in a driving rain.

Jerry Peck · #2 (**permalink**) 09-21-2007, 06:46 AM

Bill,

The problem is, that door swings out.

From the 2004 FBC.
- R311.4.3 Landings at doors.
- - There shall be a floor or landing on each side of each exterior door.
- - - - Exception: Where a stairway of two or fewer risers is located on the exterior side of a door, other than the required exit door, a landing is not required for the exterior side of the door.
- - - The floor or landing at the exit door required by Section R311.4.1 shall not be more than 1.5 inches (38 mm) lower than the top of the threshold. The floor or landing at exterior doors other than the exit door required by Section R311.4.1 shall not be required to comply with this requirement but shall have a rise no greater than that permitted in Section R311.5.3.
- - - - Exception: The landing at an exterior doorway shall not be more than 7¾ inches (196 mm) below the top of the threshold, provided the door, other than an exterior storm or screen door does not swing over the landing. (Jerry's note: This exception does not apply as that door swings out. That means the landing may be as much as 1-1/2 inches below the top of the threshold, and, if the threshold is 1 inch high, that means the landing may only be down 1/2 inch.)
- - - The width of each landing shall not be less than the door served. Every landing shall have a minimum dimension of 36 inches (914 mm) measured in the direction of travel.

How high was the threshold?

william siegel · #3 (**permalink**) 09-21-2007, 10:20 AM

The threshold was about 1/2 inch higher than the landing.

Jerry McCarthy · #4 (**permalink**) 09-21-2007, 07:13 PM

One half-inch? That makes it handicap compliant, but a bad design in case of exterior moisture build-up. Where those door hinges of the exterior type? If not makes it pretty simple for uninvited folks who want to get into your home. At least that's a write-up I always noted regarding occupant security.

Jerry Peck · #5 (**permalink**) 09-21-2007, 07:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jerry McCarthy

Where those door hinges of the exterior type? If not makes it pretty simple for uninvited folks who want to get into your home. At least that's a write-up I always noted regarding occupant security.

Jerry Mc.,

Most, if not all, exterior doors I found in South Florida (where is Bill is) were of the 'security type' with the security nub sticking out and its accompanying hole. They can be defeated, but it takes a lot of extra effort.

I don't know why every areas does not use those security type hinges for exterior doors.