This is an update to the October 10, 2014 membership memo which discussed changes to the draft 5th edition of the FBC-Building that could have impacted producers of side-hinged exterior doors (SHEDs). The changes to the FBC were in relation to structural performance requirements. Specifically, language was changed in Section 1710.5.1 that made it unclear whether SHEDs were still allowed the option of testing to ASTM E330, Standard Test Method for Structural Performance of Exterior Windows, Doors, Skylights and Curtain Walls by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference. However, in the 5th edition of the FBC-Residential, Section R612, language that expressly allows SHEDs the option of testing to ASTM E330 was maintained.
After having worked with other industry stakeholders as well as the Florida Building Commission over the past few months, and after further review of the specific language in Section 1710.5 of the FBC-Building, WMA has concluded that Section 1710.5 does allow producers of side-hinged exterior doors the option of using eitherAAMA/WDMA/CSA/101/I.S.2/A440 (NAFS) (ref Section 1710.5.1) or ASTM E330 (ref Section 1710.5.2) for non-HVHZ structural performance requirements. Unless through the code development process it is determined otherwise necessary, the intent must be to keep the language in both the building and residential codes comparable. Section 1710.5 states, “The design pressure rating of exterior windows and doors in buildings shall be determined in accordance with Section 1710.5.1 or 1710.5.2.” The word “or” clearly provides the choice of one or the other option. Filing a petition for a Declaratory Statement is therefore unnecessary.
The 5th Edition (2014) of the FBC has been adopted and is slated to go into effect June 30, 2015. At this time, the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) is accepting product approval applications to the 5th Edition.
Please contact Jessica Ferris, WMA Director of Codes and Standards, for additional information.
