Appeal 27980

705.8

The maximum area of unprotected and protected openings permitted in an exterior wall in any story of a building shall not exceed the percentages specified in Table 705.8 based on the fire separation distance of each individual story. Per 705.8, at 5’ to less than 10’ only 10% of openings are allowed, and from 10’ to less than 15’ only 15% of openings are allowed. A sprinklered building would be allowed 25% from 5’ to less than 10’, and 45% from 10’ to less than 15’.

On the north main level wall, we are requesting 19.8% of openings from 5’ to less than 10’, and 12.39% on the upper level. On the south main level we are requesting 10.45% from 5’ to less than 10’, and 16.39% on the upper level at the same distance.

We are proposing a NFPA 13D sprinkler system throughout the house.

Although the proposed NFPA 13D sprinklers do not qualify as “Sprinklered” protection in Table 705.8, they still provide a strong degree of safety, and are more appropriate in a residential setting. Given that the area of unprotected openings is low, and that these are dwelling units with residential use, allowing the openings to remain as-is with the new proposed NFPA 13D sprinkler system sufficiently protects the life and safety of the users. This is not a commercially scaled building and should not have to adhere to the stricter standards of the commercial code. Infilling the windows or replacing them with “Protected” openings would pose an undue and unnecessary burden, reduce north and south facing light, and reduce air ventilation to the users.

703.2

Fire-resistance ratings. The fire-resistance rating of building elements components or assemblies shall be determined in accordance with the test procedures set forth in ASTM E 119 or UL 263 or in accordance with Section 703.3.

We are proposing a NFPA 13D sprinkler system throughout the house and to keep the existing 2x8 floor joist framing as is.

We are proposing to keep the existing 2x8 floor joists in lieu of using 2x10s to meet the fire rating requirements of GA File No. FC 5120, as well as the STC rating. The assembly occurs at the basement ceiling/main level floor.

The building was built per residential code with 2x8 joists at 16” O.C. and will continue to operate nearly identical to its original use. We are proposing to convert this property from a residential (R3) to a transient living (R3) with 10 or fewer occupants. We are proposing to install a new NFPA 13D fire sprinkler system throughout the home. The system will be installed on all levels (basement, main level, and upper level). It would cause an undue burden to change the floor framing to 2x10 to achieve a 1-hr rated assembly.

1301.2.4

An existing building or portion thereof shall not be altered in such a manner that results in the building being less safe than such building idling is currently.

We are proposing to keep the existing exterior entry concrete steps to the basement unit.

The existing exterior concrete steps down to the basement unit have a 7” rise and 11” run with a 1’ deep landing, a total of 4 treads and 5 risers.

The basement is being converted to a separate living unit that will be separated from the unit above by a 1 hour rated ceiling/floor assembly. In addition, NFPA 13D sprinklers will be installed throughout the building at each level. The existing unfinished basement currently has two entrances, one by an interior stairway that is being removed under this permit. The level of safety is not being reduced for the basement unit as only one main entry is required, sprinklers are being installed, and two egress window wells are being added to the basement at each bedroom.