BUILDING CODES
All Architects Northwest house plans are designed to comply with the
International Residential Code (IRC) and the
Washington State Energy Code.
Some Washington State counties and cities have additional building codes, zoning requirements, and other regulations that may apply to your project.
Modifications may be necessary to meet these local codes, most notably regarding site-specific earthquake loads, special wind loads, increased snow loads,
soils conditions, flood plain and critical areas issues. Nearly all Washington State jurisdictions require site-specific lateral (wind & earthquake)
engineering calculations stamped by a Professional Engineer (PE) licensed in Washington State. As early as possible in planning your project, it is
a good idea to check with your local building department to determine the specific requirements that will apply to your site.
Architects Northwest Standard Design Loads
Roof
15 PSF Dead Load + 25 PSF Live Load
= 40 PSF
Floor
10 PSF Dead Load + 40 PSF Live Load
= 50 PSF
Ceiling
05 PSF Dead Load + 10 PSF Live Load
= 15 PSF
Deck
05 PSF Dead Load + 40 PSF Live Load
= 45 PSF
Interior Wall
= 07 PSF
Exterior Wall
= 10 PSF
Snow Load
= 25 PSF
Wind Load
= 85 PSF
Wind Exposure
= B
Seismic Category
= D
Architects Northwest Standard Beam Design Deflection Criteria
Roof
1:240 Live Load and 1:180 Total Load; 1/2" maximum
Floor
1:360 Live Load and 1:240 Total Load; 1/2" maximum
