IRC 2009 Habitable Attics

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Agenda• Definitions• Why designate space as

Habitable Attic?• Requirements• Examples• Further help

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Habitable Attic Definition

• IRC Definition:» ATTIC, HABITABLE. A finished or unfinished

area, not considered a story, complying with all of the following requirements:

» 1. The occupiable floor area is at least 70 square feet (17m2), in accordance with Section R304,

» 2. The occupiable floor area has a ceiling height in accordance with Section R305, and

» 3. The occupiable space is enclosed by the roof assembly above, knee walls (if applicable) on the sides and the floor-ceiling assembly below.

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Why Designate Space as Habitable Attic?• Enables Designer to gain a 5th Floor

while staying in IRC

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Habitable Attic Requirements• Minimum floor area (70ft2)• Minimum ceiling height (5’ for >

50% of room)• Minimum floor loading (30psf Live)• Fixed stairway• Smoke alarm• Emergency egress window

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Habitable Attic Examples• Bonus Rooms above a Garage• Any attic above a relatively wide

house where the rafters create enough headroom & is serviced by a fixed stair

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Habitable Attic – Further Reading• Pennsylvania Housing Research

Center» Habitable Attics