How to Read a Code Book | ICC Code Books

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Published 2022-08-03

Building code is confusing. Let's just get that out of the way now. I'm a veteran building inspector and I STILL get confused. Luckily for homeowners and DIY'ers, there's just one code book that governs the bulk of all residential home code requirements. While regional code adjustments and amendments can apply based on geographic location and state goals, for the most part, the IRC (International Residential Code) covers all the components of a residential house or duplex.

You might be thinking: "OK, that's great - but how in the hell do you read this thing?" Well, good news. In this video, I'm giving you the quick run-down to keep you moving and hopefully give you the information needed to find what you are looking for.

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All Comments (11)

@cryingllama3333 1 year ago

The tip about the index is going to help so much. Thanks!
@simeonorison6068 1 year ago

Thank you, very helpful!
@turnerdrywallrestoration8077 11 months ago

Great video. I just ordered my first code book from ICC. So looking forward to digging in!
@Leotheconstructionguy 1 year ago

Great video very informative 👏👏👏
@Kaygee79 1 year ago

Thanks for this video. As someone from Canada it is interesting to compare in General how the American Code book works! Lol, Building Codes are very similar, that sprinkler requirement is one thing that is not so simple. Flow, coverage etc. to meet the requirements, can get complicated! Question, how do they determine minimum frost protection depth for footings in the IRC? I assume it will be very different in Chicago and in Miami! Oh my, I hate the amendments, I stopped putting them in my book, I'd rather just buy and updated version. They are so annoying! LOL!
@itadvance 3 months ago

Thanks for the video. What do you think of "ICC Digital Codes Online"? It seems that they automatically integrate your state's amendments, and it's searchable.
@kennyhuang1985 6 months ago

any training program that you recommond for the ICC B2 exam?
@user-ts2dd1he5u 3 months ago

Use markers with colors, is about getting to know the book, index works sometimes but I would add to that, get deep into knowing the stuff in it, and highlight it, and re read it, only my opinion
@mrcodeguy1 1 year ago

not everything is in the index.
@cassiopeialily400 1 year ago

For the glazing, I’m pretty sure that each of those 4 conditions are considered hazardous separately. You don’t need all of them to be true for it to be considered hazardous… just one of them.