My wife and I have decided to build the 20 x 34 two story cottage modified to 20 x 48 and I just ordered the plans - we live in South Georgia. I have already asked the building inspector about using a wood pier and beam foundation and the answer was negative >:(. He said I would need to pour a continuous footing and use concrete block piers. So my first question is, do the plans include a continuous footing detail with rebar placing/requirements and if not where can I obtain that info? I plan to post pictures/details of the construction process as well as costs. Looking forward to communicating with the folks here...
Thanks for your help!
Randy
w*
I am not sure what all comes included with that plan set. However, the building inspector may, if asked nicely, and if he's not a cantankerous guy, tell you what they require. When I did some additions on the home in the burbs, that where I got the required info from. In my case they were very helpful and willing to assist like that.
You have to run the plans by them anyhow.
Checked my plans and the details are in there. w* to the forum, Randy.
Looking forward to seeing your project. :)
If you use the 20' clear span you won't need interior piers.
If you have to work with codes and a building inspector, my first purchase would be the International Residential Code Book. It's not cheap, but I'm sure it would more than pay for itself. d*
http://www.amazon.com/2006-International-Residential-Code-Softcover/dp/1580012531
It literally details almost every last detail of construction. :-\
I don't have to deal with a building inspector, but I'm still studying the hell out of the code book. For a novice builder like myself, It really does seem helpful. Covers all the little details that I never would of even thought of.
I know alot of folks hate the code book and inspection process, but at least knowing what the code is gives me the chance to research it and decide if it is just some government BS or if it really is legit. IMO it is a good read for all new builders, and I would think mandatory for anyone building with an inspector. (I would want to know the code as well as the inspector, can't call him on something, if you don't know the code)
BTW- There could be local variations to the code.
I used to study it heavily when building regularly. d* Yes -- me.
I liked to argue with the inspector if he was wrong. Most were great, but I did change their rules in Fresno county - they had been doing it wrong for 20 years. They wanted me to put cast iron if less than 12 inches from the surface on waste pipe. I said the code didn't say that - I was right. Anything approved within the walls was acceptable which meant ABS was OK.
Keep in mind that most public libraries have code books applicable to the local area. Also keep in mind that not everyone uses the same code books or the same years. Before buying a book determine what's used locally. Also the IRC2003 is available online for reading, at a CP link (http://countryplans.com/smf/index.php?topic=2590.0)