How Building Codes Affect a Timber Home Project

When you make the decision to build a custom timber frame home, there are several things you will need to prepare for before getting started; one of those things may seem daunting: building codes. Before you begin the actual construction of your home, there are building codes you will need to comply with. Here, we answer some frequently asked questions about building codes and how they affect your timber frame project. Reading these FAQs should put your mind at-ease.

Why Do We Have Codes?

Building codes exist on a national, state, and local level to monitor a variety of elements in building projects. Depending on your location, these codes will hold standards for a range of factors. These factors include home health and safety, the quality of materials, design control, energy efficiency and even pest prevention.

When Should I Look Into Codes?

Some people believe that compliance to building codes is handled by the builder during the construction phase. However, in many cases, if you wait until the project gets to the builder, you may already have issues. Codes should always be considered in the design phase of your project.

Where Will Codes Differ?

Building codes vary on both large and small scales—from national, to state, to even municipal levels. In addition to national building codes, for example, Canada’s building codes are separated by provincial lines. The United States’ sets of codes, of course, vary by state. And, depending on where you live, you may have completely different codes from your neighbor across the street due to municipal or county lines.

Who Should Look Into These Codes?

If you are building the home yourself, you are responsible for connecting with your local officials. However, if you are working with a builder, they are responsible for knowing your property’s codes and applying them to your project. At Riverbend, one of the first things we do for clients is contact local officials to understand codes during the design or design refinement phase, depending on which Riverbend pathway you choose. Doing so assists us in better managing your project during construction. By staying on top of your location’s specific codes, we are able to provide smoother building processes and create timber frame homes that stand the test of time.

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