Attic Access Dimensions Code

The 2009 edition of the international building code ibc and the 2006 edition of the international residential code irc offer guidelines regarding attic access although not specifically pull down ladders.

Attic access dimensions code.

The rough framed opening must be a minimum of 22 inches by 30 inches. The werner wood universal fit attic ladder features the werner wood universal fit attic ladder features a 250 lb. Where the access is located in a ceiling minimum unobstructed headroom in the attic space shall be 30 inches 762 mm at some point above the access measured vertically from the bottom of ceiling framing members. Exterior openings into the attic space of any building intended for human occupancy shall be protected to prevent the entry of birds squirrels rodents snakes and other similar creatures.

What your attic probably does not have is a set of code compliant stairs. If the attic space is smaller than these specs then an access hatch is not required. The 2012 international residential code requires an attic access opening for attics with an area greater than 30 square feet and a vertical height in excess of 30 inches. Other model building code citations for attic access stairways 2009 ibc commercial construction requirement for attic space access.

Openings for ventilation having a least dimension larger. And standard ceiling openings of 22 5 in. Here s the full text of the code. To convert your attic to living space you cannot provide access via a ladder.

See the california mechanical code for access requirements where mechanical equipment is located in attics. Built for safety this sturdy wood ladder makes it easy to access your attic with nine non slip steps and a convenient handrail for support while climbing. Weight capacity designed to fit ceiling heights from 8 ft. 2009 ibc commercial construction.

Still the information might be of some interest to inspectors. Openings for ventilation having a least dimension of not less than 1 16 inch 1 6 mm and not more than 1 4 inch 6 4 mm shall be permitted. According to the 2006 international residential code r807 1 attic access homes with combustible materials in the ceiling and roof construction must have an access to attic areas that exceeds 30 square feet and with a vertical height of 30 inches or greater. Solutions for the new code requirements r 42 attic access hatch exceeds all code requirements 22x30 pre finished white wood frame trim e zh t h triple gasketed air tight seal z hatch mark d.