A free app that calculates the maximum allowable heights and areas for buildings of various occupancy classifications and types of construction has been released.
The Heights & Areas Calculator, developed by the International Code Council, the American Wood Council, and WoodWorks, is based on provisions in the 2006 to 2015 editions of the International Building Code.
Users can input a given building geometry, site conditions (e.g., open frontage), type of construction, and occupancy.
The tool then shows allowable types of construction that are permitted. The “basic” version of the calculator limits building input to a single occupancy and equal floor areas for the entire building. An “advanced” option permits multiple occupancies and different floor areas.
“We often work with design teams that are exploring wood construction as a way to cost-effectively increase the density of their projects,” said Bill Parsons, vice president of operations for WoodWorks, in a news release. “The new heights and areas app lets building designers quickly determine if they’re maximizing value based on the objectives of the project, and to compare the options available with different construction types.”
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Oct 19, 2020
NEXT Coalition chooses five pilot projects to fight COVID-19 on jobsites
Mobile platforms, wearable sensors, AI video systems among the trial solutions.
Codes and Standards | Oct 15, 2020
Neighborhoods Now offers cost-effective, DIY designs in response to COVID-19 pandemic
Designs include barriers for outdoor dining, sidewalk retail displays, and modular seating for public spaces.
Codes and Standards | Oct 14, 2020
Standard contract document for prefab and modular building released
ConsensusDocs addresses the most common prefabricated construction use-case scenario.
Codes and Standards | Oct 13, 2020
Austin is first major Texas city to adopt wildfire code
New ordinance based on the International Wildland-Urban Interface Code.
Codes and Standards | Oct 12, 2020
Guidance offered for K-12 schools to support students with asthma
Green purchasing policies for cleaning, filters, furniture and other products encouraged.
Codes and Standards | Oct 7, 2020
More energy efficiency programs are encouraging zero-energy projects
At least 20 programs for new construction, major renovations emerge.
Codes and Standards | Oct 6, 2020
LEED, GBCI rating systems spur resilience-enhancing strategies
Expanded programs, resources address impact of climate change.
Codes and Standards | Oct 6, 2020
International Code Council to hold inaugural online education event
Week-long ICC Learn Live will include panel conversations, keynotes, and breakout sessions around key topics in building safety.
Codes and Standards | Oct 5, 2020
Guides addressing fenestration anchorage updated
First update to decade-old technical documents released.
Codes and Standards | Oct 1, 2020
Deadline extension for LEED 2009 project certifications
Delivery timeline delays due to COVID-19 pandemic prompt action.