Homeowners choose a DIY approach in renovation projects to have a feeling of accomplishment. DIY renovation gives you an opportunity to use your skills and save money as well. However, some homeowners lack knowledge about the building codes, yet they do renovation projects themselves. The advantage that building contractors have over DIYers is that they have to keep up with all the building codes. Completing your home improvement projects that comply with the construction codes can help you stay safe with peace of mind. To avoid messing up, here are some construction codes that DIYers violate.
Ignoring permits
Most people presume that only contractors need to have a permit. The type of project you do and your location determine if you need a permit or not. Permits cost money, and therefore you may be a plan not to get a permit to shave costs. Failing to have a permit has implications for your project. Besides being fined much money, your unauthorized project may have to be torn out if it does not meet the required standards. Additionally, you could land in jail in the worst-case scenario. Acquiring a permit will give you peace of mind knowing that your improvements are safe and reliable. Moreover, your insurance company can be able to cover damages that may occur during the project.
Not testing for asbestos
Asbestos is one of the dangerous materials whose disposal is regulated. Asbestos causes several respiratory problems when inhaled. You should, therefore, avoid the out of sight and out mind idea when doing your remodeling project. You can find asbestos in ceiling tiles, paint, plaster, floors, and insulation. It is recommended to hire trained professionals to detect and remove any traces of asbestos in your home. It will not only be good for your health, but also in compliance with the construction code.
Adding a basement bedroom without an Egress window
Finishing your basement helps you to expand the space for use in your house. Building codes require any sleeping room to have an egress window which can ensure safe exit of the room’s occupant in case of a house fire. You should make sure the window you add meets the required dimensions by the building codes.
Venting a bath fan into an attic
Your bathroom exhaust fans should vent to the outside of the house. You can choose it to be either through the side of the house or the roof. If you vent the warm and moist air into the attic, it can result in the rotting of the roof sheathing and framing which may, in turn, lead to the growth of mildew and mold. Building codes require you to vent air from the fan to the outside using a 4-inch-diameter pipe.
A special shout out to our friends over at Paso Robles General Contractor for the information on this site. Feel free to visit them and see some of their work by visiting them here.
