UFC 4-711-01
13 July 2006
4-4.2
Balconies.
Each living unit located entirely above ground floor should have a balcony with no
dimension less than 1.8 m (6 ft). Construct balconies using solid decks with an
impervious surface, sloped to drain to outer edge. Provide direct access from balcony
to living room, dining room, or family room.
4-4.3
Patios and Decks.
Screen patios and decks from streets, common areas, and adjacent living units.
Provide direct access from patios and decks to living room, dining room, or family room
areas. For each living unit that opens to the exterior at ground level, provide a minimum
patio area of 11.2 m2 (120 ft2) with a minimum dimension of 2.4 m (8 ft). An acceptable
alternative is a raised deck of the same size, constructed of weather-resistant materials.
Consider using sustainable materials, such as post-consumer recycled plastics and
certified wood, for deck and screen construction.
4-4.4
Exterior Stairs.
Design stairs to permit movement of a queen-size bed box spring. Exterior stairways
serving multiple units should be sheltered from wind and precipitation. Wood exterior
stairs are prohibited. Stairs should have a minimum width of 1.1 m (3 ft 6 in).
4-5
FOUNDATIONS
4-5.1
General.
Design foundations in accordance with UFC 1-200-01 and the International Residential
Code (IRC).
4-5.2
Basements.
Basements may only be provided when proven to be cost effective on a life-cycle cost
basis related to economics, energy efficiency, operations and maintenance, structural
integrity, and site constraints.
4-5.3
Slabs-on-Grade or Crawl Spaces.
Type, thickness, and location of insulation should comply with applicable provisions of
ASCE 32-01 (Frost-Protected Shallow Foundations), and IBC or IRC.
4-5.4
Tornado Resistance.
Design and construction of tornado-resistant shelters in dwelling units and community
shelters are recommended for installations in CONUS tornado-prone areas. For
guidance in determining the probability of tornadic gust winds, refer to ASCE 7
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