If you’re looking to create a beautiful masonry project at your home, it’s always important to contract with a company that has experience in the field and that follows all rules and regulations. Not only should this company know how to properly install these projects, they should also know Michigan state building codes for masonry and hardscaping.
The state has put building codes in place for various reasons, including ensuring safety of both the environment and community. In the colder climates in Michigan, following these building codes is essential if you want a project that lasts as the temperatures rise and drop.
Below is a description of the building codes in Michigan, and how it’s important that all masonry companies follow these codes if they want to keep helping Michigan homeowners.
Overview of Michigan Building Code
The Michigan building code establishes minimum requirements for masonry construction, just like state codes for a number of other areas, including construction, traffic and more.
There are many different sections of the code as it applies to masonry and hardscaping projects. Your project also must adhere to state standards known as the Michigan Residential Code, and it also might have to adhere to stricter standards if the local municipality where it’s being installed requires it.
In general, the code covers material specifications, test methods, and requirements for design and construction of masonry projects. It is based on the International Building Code (IBC) as well as the International Residential Code (IRC).
Masonry Construction Requirements
Before any masonry construction projects can begin, they must abide by codes under a number of different areas. In some municipalities, a permit is required to start such construction, and this must be obtained before the work can begin, and is based on the design of the proposed project.
International Building Code (IBC) Compliance
All masonry construction in the state of Michigan has to comply with the provisions laid out within TMS 402, TMS 403 or TMS 404, as well as any applicable requirements of the chapter.
TMS 402 covers the construction and design of all masonry structures. This includes any structural veneer, masonry and/or glass units. TMS 403 lays out specifications regarding the structural design of clay masonry and reinforced concrete masonry structures. TMS 404, meanwhile, deals with standards for architectural cast stone.
While these provisions may seem complicated and wordy at times, they include everything that masonry experts need to know and adhere to for all hardscaping projects they take on in Michigan.
Design and Construction Considerations
The Michigan Building Code explains all the masonry design methodologies that need to be followed, including allowable stress design, strength design and empirical design. It addresses masonry fireplaces and chimneys, glass unit masonry and masonry heaters.
Contractors must also take into consideration the applicable provisions of Appendix G of the Michigan Building Code, which covers flood-resistant construction. Projects must also consider seismic factors when designing masonry projects to ensure they’re able to withstand years.
The code also covers other structures that are part of the masonry project, including laterally-supported structures, and all applicable requirements, such as whether a permit is required.
Hardscaping Projects and Code Compliance
In addition to the Michigan Building Code, all hardscaping projects in the state have to adhere to other codes and provisions laid out therein.
Michigan Residential Code (MRC) Guidelines
All hardscaping projects have to comply with the Michigan Residential Code, also known as the MRC. This code covers all residential construction, including buildings and structures.
Some of the provisions in the MRC include the fact that guardrails are required for any structure that’s 30 inches above the floor or grade below, and can’t be less than 36 inches high. Guards are also required for the open side of stairs that have a total rise of 30 inches or more above the floor or grade below.
The MRC also states that any porch or deck that has a roof is considered part of the main building structure, which is used to determine allowable setbacks.
All masonry projects in Michigan need to obtain a permit that proves the contractor is adhering to all the requirements laid out in the MRC.
Seismic Design and International Code Council (ICC) Considerations
Under the International Code Council (ICC) considerations is an entire section dedicated to seismic design. While there is certainly a lower risk of a damaging earthquake happening in Michigan compared to, say, California, these seismic building codes are still in place to prevent significant damage and injury should one occur.
The ICC has laid out specific guidelines for masonry construction regarding seismic considerations. These provisions ensure all structures can resist all seismic forces that come from earthquakes in a sufficient way.
The provisions are the best available guidelines regarding how masonry structures need to be designed and then constructed to limit this seismic risk. It covers all angles of the construction, including masonry veneer, floor joists and other structural elements of the project.
It also includes all buildings and structures, including those assigned to Seismic Design Category A or B.
Category A covers buildings in all areas where ground shaking is expected to be minor during an earthquake, which includes good soils. Category B, meanwhile, corresponds to all buildings in regions where the ground shaking would be expected to be moderate, including stratified soils with poor and good soils.
Work with a Michigan Masonry Company You Can Trust
Adhering to all building codes, state and international, when it comes to masonry and hardscaping projects is of the utmost importance. Not only is it the law, but these codes are also in place to protect you, your family and friends, your community, the environment and the community at large.
The best way to ensure your new masonry or hardscaping project adheres to the Michigan Building Code and lives up to the highest standards of quality is to work with a local company you can trust.All Brick has been perfecting the art of masonry projects for the last 10 years, and is a leading masonry company in Michigan. To learn more about how we can create a beautiful masonry or hardscaping project that’s fully up to code, contact us today.
