Trinidad & Tobago Small Building Code (Draft)

Content
FOREWORD 4
1 ADMINISTRATION OF THE CODE 5

1.1 Title 5
1.2 Scope 5
1.3 Application to build 5

1.3.1 General 5
1.3.2 Form of Application to Build 5
1.3.3 Approval in Part 7
1.4 Approvals 8
1.5 Inspections 8
1.5.1 Procedure 8
1.6 Special inspector 8
1.7 Completion certificate 9
1.8 Compliance 9
1.9 Alternate materials and types of construction 10

1.9.1 General 10
1.9.2 Standards 10
1.9.3 Application 10
2 TERMS AND DEFINITIONS 11
3 GENERAL CONSTRUCTION 12
3.1 Principle 12
3.1.1 Site preparation 12
3.1.2 Site clearance 13
3.1.3 Material storage 13
3.1.4 Batter boards 13
3.1.5 Driveways and paving 13
3.1.6 Earth works 14
3.1.7 Earthquake considerations 15
3.1.8 Hurricane considerations 21
3.1.9 Roofs. 30
3.1.10 Windows and doors 31
3.2 Design criteria 35

3.2.1 Conventional design 35
3.2.2 Engineered design. 37
3.2.3 Dead load. 39
3.2.4 Live load. 39
3.2.5 Roof load. 41
3.2.6 Lateral load design 41
3.2.7 Load factors. 44
3.2.8 Deflection. 45
3.3 Minimal requirements 46

3.3.1 Location on lot 46
3.3.2 Light 46
3.3.3 Ventilation 47
3.3.4 Minimum room areas 48
3.3.5 Ceiling height 52
3.3.6 Minimum passage 52
3.3.7 Sanitation 54
3.3.8 Toilet, bath and shower spaces 54
3.3.9 Glazing 59
3.3.10 Enclosed garages 61
3.3.11 Emergency escape and rescue openings 61
3.3.12 Exits 62
3.3.13 Landings on stairways 65
3.3.14 Pedestrian ramps 65
3.3.15 Stairways 65
3.3.16 Handrails 70
3.3.17 Guards 72
3.3.18 Foam plastic 72
3.3.19 Flame spread and smoke density 74
3.3.20 Insulation 74
3.3.21 Dwelling unit separation 74
3.3.22 Moisture vapour retarders 76
3.3.23 Protection against decay 77
3.3.24 Protection against termites 81
3.3.25 Site address 81
3.3.26 Flood resistant construction 81
3.3.27 Coastal high hazard areas. 83
3.4 Basic materials 85

3.4.1 Reinforced Concrete 85
3.4.2 Timber 90
3.4.3 Metal 90
4 FOUNDATIONS 92
4.1 General 92
4.1.1 Load bearing walls and columns 92
4.1.2 Reinforcement 92
5 VERTICAL STRUCTURES 98
5.1 Concrete and masonry 98

5.1.1 Masonry Block Walls 98
5.1.2 Columns, beams and shear panel structure 116
5.1.3 Framed structure See next edition to be published 119
5.2 Timber 121

5.2.1 Identification & Grade. 121
5.2.2 Exterior walls. 121
5.2.3 Interior load bearing walls. 124
5.2.4 Interior non-bearing walls. 124
5.2.5 Drilling and notching-studs. 124
5.2.6 Headers. 125
5.2.7 Cripple walls. 125
5.2.8 Wall bracing. 126
5.2.9 Structure 129
5.2.10 Cladding 129
5.3 Metal 133

5.3.1 MS beams and profiles 133
5.4 Mixed construction 133
6 FLOOR SYSTEMS 136
6.1 Concrete floor slabs 136

6.1.1 Layout 136
6.1.2 Finishing 143
6.1.3 Services 143
6.2 Timber 145

6.2.1 Identification & Grade. 145
6.2.2 General 145
6.2.3 Floor sheathing 149
6.3 Metal 150

6.3.1 MS steel beam 150
7 ROOF ASSEMBLIES 152
7.1 Roof structure 152

7.1.1 Concrete roof structure 152
7.1.2 Timber 152
7.1.3 Metal 162
7.2 Roof covering 165

7.2.1 Weather protection 165
7.2.2 Materials 166
7.2.3 Requirements for material roof covering 166
8 FIGURES 175
9 TABLES 178
10 NORMATIVE REFERENCES 179

FOREWORD
1.In the preparation of this code, extensive use has been made of the Parts of the Caribbean
Uniform Building Code (CUBIC) which deals with small buildings. The CUBIC is at this time being
considered for revision and the management Committee for the revision project has elected to make
use of the International Code Council Inc., of the U.S.A. in the provision of base documentation for the
revision of CUBIC. In like manner for this code use has been made of the I.C.C. year 2000.
International Residential Code Final Draft 1998.
2.The drafting of the code document has been managed by the Board of Engineering of Trinidad &
Tobago, sponsored by the Joint Consultative Council in the Construction Industry and the Interim
National Physical Planning Commission with the support and active participation of the Trinidad &
Tobago Bureau of Standards.
3.A committee has been meeting consistently for the past two years for the preparation of this
Code and comprises the following members.
The Committee, which has prepared this code, is comprised of:-
Mr. Fenrick De Four National Physical Planning Commission (Chairman)

Mr. Burnell Austin Ministry of Local Government
Mr. Stephen Basdeo National Emergency Management Authority
Mr. Kenrick Bethelmy Trinidad and Tobago Fire Services
Mr. Jack Bynoe Board of Architecture of Trinidad & Tobago
Mr. Peter Bynoe Trinidad & Tobago Institute of Architects
Dr. Richard Clarke Board of Engineering of Trinidad & Tobago
Mr. J. Holgar Hackshaw Land Settlements Agency
Mr. Adul Latiff John Donaldson Technical Institute
Dr. Jeffrey M. Phillips Board of Engineering of Trinidad & Tobago
Mr. Jean M. Picchiottino Board of Engineering of Trinidad & Tobago
Mr. Francis Pierre Sangre Grande Regional Corporation,
Ministry of Local Government
Mr. Edwin Yuk Low City Engineer, Port of Spain City Corporation
Mr. Ishmael A. Soobrattee Trinidad & Tobago Bureau of Standards (Secretary)
4.The first edition of this code [provides simple guidelines for the construction of small buildings
(residential, office or light industrial) where use is made of concrete foundations, masonry block walls
and timber frame roofing.
5.Future editions of this code will cover all types of small buildings constructed with concrete,
masonry, timber, metal or any combination of these
1 Administration of the code
1.1 Title
These provisions shall be known as the "Trinidad and Tobago Small Buildings Code" and shall
referred to herein as "This code".
1.2 Scope
1.2.1
The provisions in this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement,
repair, equipment, use occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of buildings, for
single or multiple family residential or general purpose use of not more than two stories in height and
with a floor area of three hundred square metres or less.
1.2.2
This code is intended to provide minimum requirements to safeguard life, limb, health and
public welfare. It calls for minimum requirements for building materials in common use and takes into
consideration the need for protection against wind and earthquake.
1.2.3
Sufficient detail is provided to allow for the adequate preparation of plans for buildings under
normal environmental conditions. Regulatory authorities would deal with approvals on the basis of
adherence to the requirements of this code.
1.2.4
The builder/designer is advised to seek assistance from registered professionals in the design
and construction of wind and earthquake resistant structures for buildings outside the scope of this
code and/or for special application or other than normal environmental conditions.
1.3 Application to build

1.3.1 General
A person wishing to erect a building or structure, or to carry out a building operation of a small
building as defined shall comply with the requirements of the Planning and Development of Land Act
and also with the requirements of this Code.
1.3.2 Form of Application to Build

Three (3) sets of completed application forms and plans are to be provided. The plans shall
include the following:
(1)A location plan, showing the location of the lot sufficient to identify the site. Streets should be
named and lots numbered where applicable.
(2)A site plan, normally at a scale of 1/100, 1/125, 1/200 or 1/250 showing the dimensions of the
site and its relationship to abutting lots, roads, public utilities and buildings grades and elevations as
described in (3); and the location of the proposed building in relationship to the site boundaries, which
are to be identified.
(3)Existing and proposed contours and levels of the site are to be shown. The levels must show
the relationship of the lowest floor of the building with the levels of the adjoining street and with the
known datum.
(4) Building plans to include:
I. Floor Plan to Metric Scale 1/50 and/or 1/100
To show:
- room sizes and designations (all dimensions finish to finish including plaster)
- positioning of doors and windows
- materials used in construction
- thickness of each wall (including plaster)
II. Elevations and Sections to Metric Scale 1/50 and/or 1/100

To show:
- roof heights (floor to ceiling) and pitch
- height of floor above ground
- positioning of doors and windows
III. Foundation Plan to Metric Scale 1/50 and/or 1/100

To show:
- foundation layout
- cross sections
IV. Structural details to Metric Scale 1/50 and/or 1/100

To show:
- details of beams
- details of columns
- details of slabs
- details of floors
- details of all walls
- all reinforcement details
- roof design and construction details
V. Plumbing
To show:
- water and waste isometrics
- location of inspection boxes
- location and details of grease traps
- sizes and slopes of the pipes used in the sewer lines
- details of septic tanks and soakaway
VI. Site drainage
To show:
- storm surface and roof water disposal
-All drawings shall be individually numbered for ease of reference. Revisions shall carry revision
numbers.
-All drawings, specifications and accompanying data shall bear the name and address of the
person responsible for the preparation of the plans and documents.
1.3.3 Approval in Part
a)Where approval of a portion of a building is desired prior to the issuance of a permit for the
whole project, application shall be made for the complete buildings, and detailed plans for the which
immediate approval is desired shall be filed with the Chief Building Officer.
b)Should a permit be issued for a part of a building, the holder of such permit may proceed with
construction without the assurance that the permit for the entire building will be granted. The granting
of such permit will depend on the approval of the application including all requirements.
1.4 Approvals
1.4.1All construction plans specifications and associated reports required by these rules should
conformed to this code and shall be approved by the Chief Building Officer before construction
commences.
1.4.2No construction shall commence until the Chief Building Officer has issued a permit or a
written notice to proceed.
1.5 Inspections
1.5.1 Procedure
The Chief Building Officer is authorised to make the following inspections and either approve the
portion of the works completed or shall notify the builder where such work does not meet with his
approval:
(i) SETTING OUT
(ii) FOUNDATIONS BEFORE CONCRETING
(iii) STRUCTURAL FRAME AND ROOF
(iv) RING BEAMS FORM WORK AND REINFORCEMENT
(v) PLUMBING
(vi) SITE DRAINAGE
(vii) FINAL INSPECTION (OCCUPANCY CERTIFICATE)
1.5.2 All inspections shall be carried out by persons authorised as Building Inspectors or by
suitably qualified persons approved by the Chief Building Officer and appointed to carry out such
inspections.
1.5.3 Work shall not be done on any part of a building or structure beyond the point indicated in
each successive inspection without first obtaining the written approval of the Building Inspector. Such
written approval shall normally be given only after an inspection shall have been made of each
successive step in the construction as indicated by each of the foregoing inspections where
appropriate.
1.5.4 If circumstances warrant, the Chief Building Officer in his discretion may waive inspection but
this does not absolve the owner and builder from the responsibility of any construction in contravention
of this Code.
1.5.5 Reinforcing steel or structural framework of any part of any building shall not be covered or
concealed in any manner whatsoever without first obtaining the approval of the Building Inspector or
the Special Inspector.
1.6 Special inspector
When site conditions, size or complexity of the work warrants, the Chief Building Officer may
impose a condition on the permit requiring the owner to employ a Special Inspector for the inspection
of the structural framework, or any part thereof, and for the review of all plans relating to such work, as
herein required.
(i) Buildings or structures or part thereof of unusual design or method of construction and with
critical structural connections.
(ii) Marine construction.
(iii) Major foundations and/or pile driving.
(v) Major site works.
(vi) Drainage and waste disposal.
Such Special Inspector shall be a Listed Professional with the relevant experience. The Special
Inspector shall ensure compliance with this Code and shall submit regular progress reports and
inspection reports to the Chief Building Officer.
At the completion of the construction work or project, the Special Inspector shall submit a
Certificate of Compliance to the Chief Building Officer stating that the work was done in compliance
with this Code and in accordance with the approved plan or plans. His duties shall end with the
submission of such certificate.
1.7 Completion certificate
a) A new building shall not be occupied or a change made in occupancy or the nature of the use
of a building or part of a building until after a Completion Certificate has been issued.
b) Upon completion of a building erected in accordance with approved plans and after final
inspection herein referred to, and - upon application, the Chief Building Officer shall issue a Certificate
stating the nature of the occupancy permitted.
c) A temporary Completion Certificate may be issued for a portion or portions of a building, which
may safely be occupied prior to final completion of the building.
1.8 Compliance
a) The issuance and granting of a permit shall not be deemed or construed to be a permit for, or
an approval of, any violation of this Code.
b) The issuance of a permit upon approval of plans and specifications, shall not prevent the Chief
Building Officer from thereafter requiring the correction of errors on such plans and specifications, or
from preventing building operations being carried on thereunder when in violation of this Code or any
Regulations applicable thereto.
c) When during the construction of the work carried out under the permit, from issuance of permit
to issuance of the Completion Certificate, the Chief Building Officer reasonably believes that approved
plans are in violation of this Code, he shall notify the permit holder and the permit holder shall correct
the drawings or otherwise satisfy the Chief Building Officer that the design and/or working drawings
are in compliance with this Code.
d) Compliance with this Code is the responsibility of the permit holder until the issuance of a
Completion Certificate; at which time it shall become the responsibility of the owner.
e) The permit granted for the construction of the work shall be available at the construction site
during normal working hours for inspection by the Building Inspector.
1.9 Alternate materials and types of construction
1.9.1 General
The provisions of this Code are not intended to prevent the use of types of construction or
materials or methods of designs as alternates to the standards herein set forth. Such alternates shall
be offered for approval and their consideration shall be as specified in this Section.
1.9.2 Standards
The types of Construction or materials or methods of design referred to in this Code shall be con-
sidered as standards of quality and strength. New types of construction or materials or methods of
design shall be at least equal to these standards for the corresponding use intended.
1.9.3 Application
a) Any person desiring to use types of construction or materials or methods of design not
specifically mentioned in this Code shall file with the Chief Building Officer proof in support of claims
that may be made regarding the safety and sufficiency of such types of construction or materials or
methods of design and request approval and permission for their use.
b) The Chief Building Officer shall approve such alternate types of construction or materials or
methods of design if it is clear that the standards of this Code are at least equalled. If, in the opinion of
the Chief Building Officer, the standards of this Code will not be satisfied by the requested alternate,
he shall refuse approval.
2 Terms and definitions
3 General construction
3.1 Principle
3.1.1 Site preparation
3.1.1.1 Preliminary investigation

Before any construction work commences, it shall be determined whether planning permission
and other approvals would be required from the competent (relevant) authorities. A preliminary
inspection of the site shall be undertaken so that preparation may be made for any problems or diffi-
culties that may arise. This time should also be used to plan how the site will be organised so that a
logical layout may emerge.
3.1.1.2 Checklist for site conditions

Completion of the checklist below will provide enough information about the site and its
conditions to permit construction to begin.
a) Has planning permission been obtained?
b) Is easy access to the site available?
c) Is there a surveyor's or topological drawing of the site?
d) Have the location of all boundary markers been found?
e) Are water, sewage disposal facilities and an electricity supply available on site?
f) Take note of the general topography of site and other physical conditions likely to cause
hazards.
g) Is there evidence of termite infestation in the soil or trees?
h) Will there be a need for the removal of large trees?
i) Is the area normally subject to land slippage?
j) Is there adequate natural provision for the removal of storm water i.e. collection of water as a
result of heavy rains or flooding.
k) Will construction endanger any of the public utility services?
l) Determine the height of the water table if appropriate.
m) Determine whether the soil is suitable for the construction of a soak-away pit.
n) Determine the ground floor datum.
o) Determine the depth of the foundation stratum.
q) Select suitable areas for stockpiling aggregate.
r) Select an area for the location of a concrete mixer or for the hand-mixing of concrete.
s) Select location of a materials storage shed.
t) Are their existing structures to be removed or altered?
Completion of the above checklist should highlight possible construction problems as well as the
requirements of plant and materials. Where foundation problems are evident it is recommended that
an engineer or any other appropriate professional be consulted.
3.1.2 Site clearance
3.1.2.1
Care should be taken to preserve any trees on the site. Where it is necessary to remove any
trees, special care shall be taken to remove, totally, all roots and stumps of the felled trees as well as
any of the other remains from the site.
NOTE There may be statutory limitations on the extent to which large trees may be removed.
3.1.2.2
The area where the building will be situated shall be stripped of topsoil. This material should be
stock piled in a suitable area for later use during landscaping.
3.1.3 Material storage
3.1.3.1
Areas shall be allocated on the cleared site for the storage of materials. Coarse and fine
aggregate for the mixing of concrete and mortar shall be placed in separate heaps in a location near to
the concrete mixer or concrete mixing area.
3.1.3.2
Cement, nails and finished materials (groove ply, PVC pipe, galvanised sheeting etc.) requiring
protected storage shall be stored in a shed, which is weather tight and has a wooden floor raised not
less than four inches off the ground.
3.1.3.3
Reinforcement steel shall be stacked off the ground to reduce corrosion.
3.1.4 Batter boards

The building shall be properly set out on the site according to the building plan. Batter boards,
which are horizontal boards parallel to the sides of the building and supported by vertical boards driven
into the ground shall be erected in convenient locations near the four corners of the building, and to
these boards should be transferred the building lines and levels for the project.
3.1.4.1
The floor level is usually marked on the batter boards and used as a permanent reference. All wall
lines and levels shall be referred to these boards. Periodic checks shall be made to ensure that these
boards have not been shifted from their intended positions.
3.1.5 Driveways and paving
3.1.5.1
The driveways and paving dealt with in this section are those suitable for use as driveways and
parking areas for private cars and light goods vehicles only. Driveways shall be not less than 3m wide.
3.1.5.2
The choice of flexible (asphalt) or rigid (concrete) paving is largely influenced by the soil
conditions at the site and the cost of driveway. Gravel driveways and paving are acceptable if
adequate drainage is available and if the gravel or crushed rock is reasonably hard, free from clay, and
would not be easily crushed by the light traffic. Adequate provision for drainage shall be made.
3.1.5.3
Where firm soils or rocks are present, any type of paving previously mentioned may be used.
Where soft soils are present gravel or a flexible paving is recommended.
3.1.5.4
For all kinds of paving the topsoil shall be removed and replaced by a minimum of 150 mm of
compacted, granular material.
3.1.5.5
For rigid paving, a concrete slab with a minimum thickness of 100 mm is required, reinforced by
2
welded wire mesh of minimum 100 mm /m wide in both directions, placed 25 mm below the slab
surface. Construction joint shall be created every 5 m.
Note: A98, A142 and 150x150X4.5 BRC are acceptable.
3.1.5.6
For flexible paving a minimum thickness of 50 mm of asphalt (cold or hot mix) shall be applied
and compacted by roller on an approved and adequate sub base.
3.1.6 Earth works
3.1.6.1 Site topography
3.1.6.1.1
The natural topography of the land should be maintained and any excavation or back filling that
must be carried out (and deemed as necessary) should be kept to a minimum. This is necessary to
maintain the natural vegetation, prevent landslides and flooding and preserve in general the natural
environment.
3.1.6.1.2
It is essential therefore that buildings should be constructed in such a manner to compliment the
natural topography of the site and not vice-versa.
3.1.6.2 Soil conditions
3.1.6.2.1
The characteristics of the site soil conditions shall be ascertained. If necessary, compaction shall
be carried out in order to improve the bearing value of the soil.
3.1.6.2.2
Where expansive clay is encountered or where problem conditions are present, professional
advice shall be sought before planning the foundation.
3.1.6.3 Excavations
3.1.6.3.1
Excavations for foundations shall be carried out along the building lines to the depth of the
foundation stratum identified as suitable.
3.1.6.3.2
Excavations not exceeding 1.5 m in depth may generally be without planking and strutting, which
is a system of braced timber walls erected against the faces of the excavation to prevent collapse. For
excavations exceeding 1.5 m the extent of planking and strutting necessary shall be determined by the
nature of the soil and the location of the water table.
3.1.6.3.3
Where collapse of the side of excavation is anticipated, all excavation in excess of 1.5 m in depth
shall be planked and strutted.
3.1.6.3.4
Where the foundation is in rock, it shall be excavated at least 50 mm to provide a key for the
foundations.
3.1.6.3.5
The bottom of all excavations shall be level and firm. Where loose materials are encountered,
foundation bottoms shall be compacted by ramming.
3.1.6.3.6
Where excavations have been carried beyond their generally required depth, either by accident or
design, the deep areas shall be back filled with compacted, adequate material or with Grade E
concrete (see table B-1).
3.1.6.4 Back filling
3.1.6.4.1
Back filling shall not be carried out in dry rivers, natural drains, where water flows after heavy
rains and along thalwegs (lowest areas in valleys).
3.1.6.4.2
Back filling around foundation walls and under floor slabs shall be carried out using only suitable,
selected materials. Unless the floor slab is reinforced to act as a suspended slab, the depth of fill shall
not exceed 1 m.
3.1.6.4.3
Suitable fill material may be brought to the site or obtained from excavated material, provided
always that such material is free of substantial amounts of clay or organic matter.
3.1.6.4.4
All backfill shall be well compacted in layers not exceeding 150 mm in thickness where
compaction is by hand. Where mechanical compaction equipment is used, the thickness of layers may
be increased to 225 mm.
3.1.6.4.5
Where back filling under floor slabs on grade has been effected using hard core, a 50 mm layer of
sand shall be applied to the top of the compacted hard core to protect damp proof membranes from
puncture.
3.1.7 Earthquake considerations
3.1.7.1 Earthquake resistant construction
3.1.7.1.1 General
Trinidad and Tobago is in an earthquake zone and has experienced varying degrees of damage
due to earthquakes. It is therefore essential that buildings are designed and constructed so that they
have some resistance to the shaking or lateral forces produced by earthquakes.
3.1.7.1.2 Effect of soil type
3.1.7.1.2.1
The type of soil at the site may have a significant effect upon the resistance of the building to an
earthquake. However for buildings within the scope of this code the effect of the soil type is not so
significant provided that the building is not constructed on loose saturated sands, which may liquefy
during an earthquake and cause collapse of the building.
3.1.7.1.2.2
The earthquake may also, due to shaking of the ground, compact loose sand or fill material, and if
a building is constructed on such material, the building will be damaged.
3.1.7.1.3 Effect of high seas

Buildings on coastal areas may suffer due to high waves produced by earthquakes, and therefore
the siting of the building in relation to the sea level needs to be considered. Professional advice shall
therefore be sought in such cases.
3.1.7.1.4 Building shape
3.1.7.1.4.1
The success with which a building survives an earthquake is greatly affected by its shape in plan,
the way the building is tied together and the quality of construction.
3.1.7.1.4.2
Most buildings with a simple rectangular shape with no projections (or only short projections)
perform well under earthquake conditions provided the construction is adequate.
3.1.7.1.4.3
Long narrow buildings should be avoided by limiting the length to three times the width. If the
building must be longer, then it should be divided into separate blocks with adequate separation.
Figure A1-1 illustrates desirable and undesirable plan shapes.
3.1.7.1.4.4
Rectangular buildings with well inter-connected cross walls are inherently strong and therefore
desirable.
Separation of Blgs Desirable plans
to improve resistance
Long undesirable plans
Fig A1-1 Plan of building proportion

Floor level
Not acceptable opening location
400
400
1 100
2 020
1 000
Floor level
1 800mm min Shear panel
Fig A1-2 Recommended location of wall opening

First floor
Ground level
First floor
Ground level
Fig A1-3 Recommended location of wall opening for tow storey building
3.1.7.1.5 Appendages
Where buildings have decorative or functional additions or appendages such as window hoods,
parapets and wall panels etc. extreme care must be taken to ensure that they are securely fixed, since
many of such items tend to fall easily and may cause damage during an earthquake.
3.1.7.2 Rules for the construction of earthquake resistant buildings

It is recommended that the following rules be followed for the construction of buildings:
3.1.7.2.1 Masonry buildings

An important factor contributing to the earthquake resistance of masonry buildings is the detailing
and placing of steel reinforcement. A registered professional should undertake the design of a
reinforced concrete frame building. The reinforcing guide given in this section therefore must only be
used for simple single storey buildings constructed of approved quality masonry blocks. For the
minimum quantities of reinforcing steel to be used refer to Clause Vertical Structures.
3.1.7.2.2 Timber buildings

There are two additional areas of concern with respect to timber buildings:
All corners and intersections must be adequately braced.
Earthquake and hurricane forces tend to remove timber buildings from their supports by shaking.
Because of this sills shall be securely fastened to foundations.
3.1.7.2.3 Steel buildings

The natural ductility of steel protects the frame from severe damage. However, in many cases
masonry block walls are used and the precautions already listed for these walls will apply. The wall
reinforcement must now be anchored by welding to the steel columns and beams, or the steel frame
encased in concrete in which case the wall reinforcement can be tied into the concrete cage encasing
the steel frame.
3.1.7.3 Location of openings
3.1.7.3.1
The location and size of openings in walls have a significant effect upon the strength of a wall and
its ability to resist earthquake forces.
3.1.7.3.2
Openings shall be located away from a corner by a clear distance of at least 1/4 of the height of
the opening. It is recommended that the minimum distance be 400 mm.
3.1.7.3.3
The total length of the openings should not exceed 1/2 the length of the wall between consecutive
cross walls (see figure A1-2).
3.1.7.3.4
The horizontal distance between two openings should not be less than 1/2 the height of the
shorter opening (see figure A1-2).
3.1.7.3.5
For two storey buildings, the vertical distance from an opening to one directly above it shall not be
less than 600mm, nor shall it be less than one half the width of the smaller opening.
3.1.8 Hurricane considerations
3.1.8.1 Hurricane resistant construction
3.1.8.1.1 General
3.1.8.1.1.1
It is very important in Trinidad and Tobago to be ever conscious of the fact that the region lies in
the hurricane belt. Because of this, hurricane resistant construction principles must be adhered to if
safe buildings are to be erected. This section gives general principles for safe hurricane resistant
design, and it is recommended that the details shown in these guidelines must be adhered in order to
ensure safe construction.
3.1.8.1.1.2
For the buildings within the scope of this document the areas most vulnerable to hurricane forces
are the roofs, windows, walls and appendages.
3.1.8.1.1.3
The underlying objective of hurricane resistant construction is to produce a building that will not
collapse during a hurricane. The building must be standing and its occupants should be safe.
3.1.8.2 Rules for the construction of hurricane resistant buildings
3.1.8.2.1 Building site
3.1.8.2.1.1
Buildings sited in exposed areas (e.g. on the brow of a hill or near coastal areas) are most
vulnerable, while those sheltered by natural topography are less vulnerable. Buildings sited in gullies
or riverbeds are very vulnerable as they are subject to severe damage by floods caused by the heavy
rains, which often accompany a hurricane.
3.1.8.2.1.2
In siting the building, therefore, steep slopes and edge of cliffs should be avoided, as well as other
conditions such as steep sided valleys where exceptionally high wind speeds are found.
3.1.8.2.1.3
Tie beams should be constructed to reduce the untied height of the columns to a maximum of 3
meters as shown in figure A1-6. It is advisable to seek professional assistance for such construction,
unless otherwise designed for larger columns.
3.1.8.2.2 Timber buildings.
3.1.8.2.2.1
Because of the relatively light nature of a timber building, extra precautions shall be taken to
prevent uplift. Care must therefore be taken to ensure that the entire structure is securely fastened to
the foundations.
3.1.8.2.2.2
The spaces between the supporting columns or piers may be filled in to reduce the uplift forces
(see figure A1-6).
3.1.8.2.2.3
As far as timber walls are concerned, in addition to bracing corners in both directions, diagonal
braces or steel straps must be installed at the level of the top plate to provide rigidity of the corners at
that level (see figures A1-7 and A1-8).
width of wall
roof level
roof reinforced
concrete ring beam
frame of building
floor level
Fig A1-4 Typical roof gable wall arrangement

roof level
roof reinforced
concrete ring beam
frame of building
floor level
200x300 r.c. tie beam

200mm thk.
r.c. blockwall
existing grade
r.c. strip footing
Ground slopes should be less than 15 degrees

600 mm min
roof level
roof reinforced
concrete ring beam
frame of building
floor level
200x300 r.c. tie beam

3 000mm maximum
300x300 mm min
r.c. column
existing grade
r.c. footing
Steep slopes more than 15 degrees

and less than 30 degrees
900 mm min
r.c. footing
Note: Those sketches don't show the shear panels
Fig A1-5 Recommended method of construction on sloping sites

Grade
100 X 100 Timber sill
r.c. tie beam
200mm thick blockwork
Colomn may be 200 x 200mm reinforced concrete or

block work filled with concrete and 4 - 12mm rods
8mm links - 200mm centers
Fig A1-6 In-fill panel between timber building supports

Horizontal bracing for corners
at wall plate level
50 x 100 wall plate
Uprights
25 x 150 sheating
Wall sill Brace corners by

diagonal bracings
Fig A1-7 Timber framing showing bracing

Wall plate must be fastened and strapped
to the top of uprights
Window
opening
Double uprights
at openings
Door
opening
Wall sill is fixed to foundation

wall by anchor bolts
Wall sill The uprights are fixed to
the wall sill
Fig A1-8 Timber framing for wall

roof sheeting
roof battens
50 x 150 timber rafter

at 600mm centers
ceiling material
metal hurricane tie

every other rafter
timber wall plate 225
r.c. ring beam
roof eave 900mm (max)
facia board
150
Fig A1-9 Rafter/wall plate connections
50 x 100 timber wall plate
12mm anchor bolt

at 1200mm centers
(maximum)
r.c. ring beam
Fig A1-10 Rafter/ ring beam connections

metal hurricane tie
Timber rafter
imbedded in ring beam
Infill concrete
Timber wall plate
r.c. ring beam
metal hurricane tie
Timber wall plate Timber wall plate
Mortise
Tenon
Metal strap
Timber upright Timber upright
Fig A1-11 Wall plate connections and hurricane ties

3.1.8.2.3 Steel buildings
The principles for the design and construction of hurricane resistant steel buildings are:
3.1.8.2.3.1
Ensure that there are adequate numbers and sizes of foundation holding down bolts, and that
they are all in place and properly fixed.
3.1.8.2.3.2
Ensure that there is adequate lateral support provided by cross bracing or horizontal ties or by
cast in place concrete or masonry walls.
3.1.8.2.3.3
Where concrete walls or concrete masonry is used, the connections between the steel frames
and the walls shall be provided.
3.1.8.2.3.4
Ensure that the fabricator's recommendations with regards to the construction of the roof and roof
covering are followed.
3.1.9 Roofs.
3.1.9.1
Roofs with pitch between 0 and 20° (or a slope between 0 % and 36 %) are more vulnerable to
uplift forces. It is recommended that roofs be constructed with a pitch between 20° and 40° (or a slope
between 36 % and 84 %).
3.1.9.2
The aptitude to reduce uplift forces is affected by the shape of the roof in the following order from
the most effective to the least effective:
a) Hip roof
b) Gable
c) Shed
3.1.9.3
Attention should be given to the location of fixings used for the roof cladding. It is necessary to
provide additional fixings at the roof edges and ridge, since high-localised pressures are produced in
these locations.
3.1.9.4
Roof overhangs also experience high local pressures and, where possible, these should be kept
to a minimum or adequately strengthened.
3.1.9.5
Where buildings have covered patios or verandas, their roofs may be separate structures rather
than extensions of the main building roof. A patio or veranda roof may be lost without endangering the
safety of the main roof.
3.1.9.6
The main roof must be securely fixed to the ring beam and ridge beams and details for achieving
this are shown in figures A1-9, and A1-10 and A1-11.
3.1.10 Windows and doors
Special attention must be paid to the installation of doors and windows, since the loss of a door or
window during a hurricane will greatly alter the internal pressure of the building, thus adversely
affecting its safety. For this reason, glazed windows and doors may be fitted with shutters.
Masonry Columns, beams & shear panel structure Framed structure
Suspended first floor slab Suspended first floor slab Suspended first floor slab
Ground floor slab suspended Ground floor slab suspended Ground floor slab suspended
or on grade or on grade or on grade

Suspended ground floor slab Suspended ground floor slab Suspended ground floor slab
with crawl space with crawl space with crawl space
Shear panel

Ground floor slab suspended Ground floor slab suspended Ground floor slab suspended
or on grade or on grade or on grade
Fig A2-1a Basic 1 or 2 level house type

Flat site 2 levels
First level masonry First level masonry

Ground level columns, beams & shear panel structure Ground level framed structure
Suspended first floor slab Suspended first floor slab
Ground floor slab suspended or slab on grade Ground floor slab suspended or slab on grade
First level masonry First level masonry

Crawl space columns, beams & shear panel structure Crawl space framed structure
Suspended ground floor slab Suspended ground floor slab
Sloping site
Fig A2-1b Mixed 1 or 2 level house type

First level timber First level timber First level timber
Suspended first floor slab Ground level columns, beams & shear panel structure Ground level framed structure
Suspended first floor slab Suspended first floor slab
Ground floor slab suspended
or on grade
First level timber

Suspended ground floor slab
with crawl space First level cold formed steel First level metallic structure
Crawl space columns, beams & shear panel structure Crawl space framed structure
Suspended ground floor slab Suspended ground floor slab
Shear panel
One level timber

Ground floor slab suspended
or on grade
Fig A2-1c 1 or 2 level house, other combination

3.2 Design criteria
3.2.1 Conventional design

Buildings and structures, and all parts thereof, shall be constructed to support safely all loads,
including dead loads.
Where different construction methods and structural materials are used for various portions of a
building, the applicable requirements of this part for each portion shall apply.
3.2.1.1 Conventional building

Conventional construction shall be considered as building with acceptable shape of the figures
A2-1 (a to c) “1 and 2 level house type”.
All conventional construction shall be designed in accordance with this code.
3.2.1.2 Irregular building

Irregular buildings shall have an engineered lateral-force resisting system designed in accordance
with accepted engineering practice.
A building shall be considered to be irregular when one or more of the following conditions occur:
a) When exterior shear panels or reinforced frame is not in one plane vertically from the foundation to
the uppermost story in which they are required. (See Framed structure)
b) When a section of floor or roof is not laterally supported by shear panel or reinforced frame on all
edges.
c) When an opening in a floor or roof exceeds the lesser of 3.60m or 50% of the least floors or roofs
dimension.
d) When portions of a floor level are vertically offset.
e) When shear panel or reinforced frame is do not occur in two perpendicular directions.
f) When shear panel or reinforced frame are constructed of dissimilar bracing systems on any one-
story level above grade.
3.2.1.3 Limit of this code.

When a building of otherwise conventional construction contains structural elements, which
exceed the limits of this code, those elements shall be designed in accordance with accepted
engineering practice.
Fig A2-2 Trinidad & Tobago winds
3.2.2 Engineered design.
3.2.2.1 General
Buildings shall be constructed in accordance with the provisions of this code as limited by the
provisions of this section.
3.2.2.2 Wind design.
The requirements in this document are based on design wind speed over open water at
equivalent elevation of 10m average over 10 minutes with a recurrence of one in 50 year. (See figure
A2-2 Trinidad and Tobago Winds)
Table 1 Design pressure for winds
Design pressure Trinidad Trinidad Tobago
Central Coastal
Basic wind speed
Km/hr 72 92 101
Wall (horizontal load) 0.70 0.90 1.00

2
kN/m
2
Roof (uplift) kN/m 1.00 1.30 1.45
3.2.2.3 Seismic design.

All buildings shall be constructed in accordance with the provisions of this section.
3.2.2.3.1 Seismic design category.
3.2.2.3.1.1 Ground acceleration

The requirements in this document are based on maximum ground acceleration associated with
10% probability of occurrence in 50 years.
For Trinidad & Tobago 0.3 g
2
(g refers to the gravity and g = 9.81m/s )
3.2.2.3.1.2 Amplification factor
Where the soil is 100% saturated (low land, reclaimed land, etc.) an amplification factor of 2 shall
be applied to the ground acceleration. See calculation for shear load.
3.2.2.3.1.3 Soil liquefaction

To prevent any soil liquefaction on the same type of land than above a special attention shall be
carried out with an engineer specialist for the choice of the appropriate type of foundation. See
calculation for shear load.
3.2.2.3.2 Weights of applied finishes
2 2
Dead load finishes shall not exceed 1 kN/m for roofs or 0.5 kN/m for floors.
Dead load finishes for walls above grade shall not exceed:
a- light-frame walls
2
0.75 kN/m for exterior
2
0.50 kN/m for interior
b- masonry walls.
2
2.50 kN/m for 150mm thick masonry wall.
2
3.80 kN/m for 200 mm thick masonry wall.
c- concrete walls.
2
4.10 kN/m for 150 mm thick concrete walls.
3.2.2.3.3 Height limitations.

The design applied to any construction is limited to two stories with a maximum of 9m to the top of
the building.
3.2.2.4 Flood plain construction.

Buildings and structures constructed in flood prone areas as established in Fig. A2-1 shall be
designed and constructed in accordance with Clause Flood resistant construction and Clause Coastal
high hazard areas of Part "Minimal requirements".
3.2.3 Dead load.

The actual weights of materials and construction shall be used for determining dead load with
consideration for the dead load of fixed service equipment.
3.2.4 Live load.

The minimum uniformly distributed live load shall be as provided in Table 2.
Table 2 Minimum uniformly distributed live loads

2
Use Live loads (kN/m )
Exterior balconies 5
Domestic floor / All rooms, stairs and corridors 1.5
Office floor 2.5
Small industrial and storage 5
Use Horizontal loads
(kN/m)
Guard rails and handrails 1
Fig A2-3 Trinidad flood prone areas
3.2.5 Roof load.
Roof shall be designed for the live load indicated in Table 3.
Table 3 Minimum roof live loads (kN/m2)

Tributary loaded area for any structural members
Roof slope Area (m2)

0 to 20m2 20 to 55m2 over 55m2
Flat or rise less than (20°) 33% 1 0.75 0.6
slope
Rise (20°) 33% to (45°) 100% 0.75 0.7 0.6
Rise greater than (45°) 100% 0.6 0.6 0.6
3.2.6 Lateral load design
3.2.6.1 Preamble
Wind and earthquake introduce horizontal loads in the superstructure that are transferred to the
foundation. We have to consider 2 steps:
a) Transfer of the horizontal load from
- wind to vertical wall and roof
- acceleration of mass located everywhere in the superstructure
to the appropriated wall or framed structure.
b) Transfer of the load from the top to the bottom of the wall or superstructure and the foundation.
According to this code
- horizontal transfer is done by horizontal diaphragm or horizontal beam
- vertical transfer is one by shear panel, cross, or framed structure
3.2.6.2 Diaphragm
Floor, roof or ceiling assemblies may be constructed with the necessary stiffness and load path
continuity to distribute lateral loads (wind and earthquake) to lateral support subsystems. In this role,
floor, roof or ceiling surface act as horizontal beams (also called a diaphragm) spanning lateral
supports points.
Use of floor, roof or ceiling assembly, as a diaphragm requires both strength and stiffness
properties and development of connections to transfer the diaphragm force.
Shear panel
in 2 parts
Part elevation
Minimum 800
5 diam. 12 In situ concrete
400
Shear panel
1 600
in one part
1 000
ground level
Part elevation
1 800
150mm min
400
In situ concrete
Part plan
In situ concrete
2 diam. 12 every 2 rows
Fig B6-1 Shear panel - Vertical core blocks

Shear panel in two parts
Ring beam concrete and reinforcement
ground level ground level
Part elevation Part elevation
L1 = 1000 min L2 = 2400 mm - L1
Shear panel in one part

Ring beam concrete and reinforcement 500
Limit of opening
location
4 dia. 12mm
ground level
Part elevation 250mm min

150 min 1 800
200
2100 min
115
1600 max In situ concrete 6mm stirrup each 150mm
Part plan
150mm m in
In situ concrete
Fig B6-2 Shear panel - Horizontal core blocks

3.2.6.3 Shear panel
3.2.6.3.1 Concrete wall

A shear panel (see figures B-6-1 and B-6-2 Shear panel) is a portion or section of a 150mm
exterior wall that performs the function of resisting lateral earthquake or wind forces.
3.2.6.3.2 Timber
See paragraph "Wall bracing".
3.2.7 Load factors.

All structures shall resist combined loads as follows;
3.2.7.1 Gravity
1.40 D + 1.70 L
3.2.7.2 Earthquake
a) 0.75 (1.40 D + 1.70 L +/- 1.87 E)

and
b) 0.90 D +/- 1.43 E
3.2.7.2.1 Shear load calculation

A simplified formula, for this code is
V = 0.05 x S x W total shear in kN
Whereas :
The 0.05 coefficient integrated the Z = ground acceleration, C = amplification factor due to
structure frequency, I = Importance factor =1 in this code and Rw = Ductility factor related with respect
to the column design reinforcement used in the normal practice formula.
S = site factor
S=1 For good soil (rock, gravel)
S = 1.2 For softer material (clay, fill )
S = 1.5 For deep alluvial deposits
S = 2.5 maximum for reclaimed land and saturated soils (due to the amplification factor)
W = total load in kN
3.2.7.3 Wind
1.40 D + 1.70 L + 1.75 W
Note:
D = dead load
L = live load
E = earthquake load
W = wind load
3.2.8 Deflection.
The allowed deflection of any structural member under the live load shall not exceed the following
values in Table 4
Table 4 – Maximum deflection authorised.

Rafters and purlins L/180
Interior walls and partitions H/180
Floors and ceilings L/360
All others structural members L/240
NOTES:
L = span length H = span heigh
3.3 Minimal requirements
3.3.1 Location on lot
3.3.1.1 Exterior walls.
Exterior walls with a fire separation distance less than 1.25m shall have not less than a one-hour
fire-resistive rating. The one-hour fire resistive rating of exterior walls with a fire separation distance
less than 1.25m shall be rated for interior and exterior exposure. Projections beyond the exterior wall
shall not extend more than 300mm into the fire separation distance. Projections extending into the fire
separation distance shall have not less than one-hour fire-resistive construction on the underside. The
above provisions shall not apply to walls, which are perpendicular to the line used to determine the fire
separation distance.
3.3.1.2 Openings.
Openings shall not be permitted in the exterior wall of a dwelling with a fire separation distance
less than 1.25m. This distance shall be measured perpendicular to the vertical plane of the opening.
3.3.2 Light
3.3.2.1 Habitable rooms.
All habitable rooms shall be provided with an area to allow natural light to enter not less than 10
percent of the floor area of such rooms.
3.3.2.2 Adjoining rooms.
For purpose of determining requirements of light, any room shall be considered as a portion of an
adjoining room when at least one-half of the area of the common wall is open and unobstructed and
provides an opening of not less than 10% of the floor area of the interior room but not less than
2
2.50m .
3.3.2.3 Bathrooms.
Bathrooms, water closet compartments and other similar rooms shall be provided with an area to
2
allow natural light to enter not less than 0.25m .
3.3.2.4 Stairway illumination.
All interior and exterior stairways shall be provided with a means to illuminate the stairs, including
the landings and treads.
Interior stairs shall be provided with an artificial light source located in the immediate vicinity of
each landing at the top and bottom of the stairs.
Exterior stairs shall be provided with an artificial light source located in the immediate vicinity of the
top landing of the stairs.
3.3.3 Ventilation
3.3.3.1 Natural ventilation
3.3.3.1.1 Habitable rooms.
Natural ventilation shall be provided in all habitable room through windows, louvres or other
natural openings through the external wall to the outdoor air.
The minimum area of ventilation shall be not less than 15 percent of the floor area of such rooms.
3.3.3.1.2 Adjoining rooms.
For purpose of determining ventilation requirements, any room shall be considered as a portion of
an adjoining room when at least one-half of the area of the common wall is open and unobstructed
and provides an opening of not less than 15% of the floor area of the interior room but not less than
2
2.50m .
3.3.3.1.3 Bathrooms.
Bathrooms, water closet compartments and other similar rooms shall be provided with a
2
ventilation area not less than 0.25m .
3.3.3.2 Mechanical ventilation
3.3.3.2.1 Habitable rooms.

3
All habitable rooms shall be provided with the minimum ventilation rates of 30m /hr for continuous
2
ventilation for every 12m of the floor area or part of such rooms.
This ventilation shall be through windows, doors or other natural openings through the external
3
wall from the outdoor air through a special 30m /hr-air regulator.
3.3.3.2.2 Kitchen and bathrooms
All the air introduced into the house through the habitable rooms must be extracted in the rooms
e.g. kitchen, bathroom, toilet, washing room and other similar rooms have to be maintained in
depression to create an air flow through the house.
The minimum exhaust airflow for each room is as follows
3
Kitchen 120 m /hr
3
Bathroom 60 m /hr
3
Shower 60 m /hr
3
Toilet (WC) 30 m /hr
3
Washing room and store room 30 m /hr
This ventilation air shall be exhausted permanently and directly outside.
3.3.3.2.3 Internal doors

2
All internal doors have to be provided with air passages not less than 150 cm .
Note: These passages can be provided with a bottom gap of 2 or 2.5cm under the door.
3.3.3.2.4 Minimum global ventilation
For each house or apartment the minimum ventilation rate is one volume of the habitable part of
the house per hour.
3.3.4 Minimum room areas
3.3.4.1 Minimum area.
Every dwelling unit shall have at least one habitable room (living, sleeping, eating or cooking
2
room), which shall be not less than 12m of floor area.
3.3.4.2 Other rooms.
2
Other habitable rooms shall have a gross area of not less than 7.50m .
3.3.4.3 Exception:
2
Kitchen not less than 5m
2 2
Bathroom not less than 3m and not less than 2m for the second one
2
Shower not less than 1.5m
2
Toilet (WC) not less than 1m
See figure A3-1 Minimum room sizes, A3-2 Typical furniture arrangement and A3-3 Typical
2
arrangement 7.5m room.
900mm min 1400mm min
1800mm min
1732mm square
2236mm
1667mm
2143mm
1732mm
2778mm Kitchen
2236mm 5m2 min Shower
1.5m2 min Bath.
3m2 min
750mm min 800mm
1333mm
2500mm minimum
WC 1250mm min
1m2 min
3000mm
3464mm square
2500mm minimum
2739mm square
4800mm
4000mm
Main room Other room
3464mm
12m2 min 3000mm
7.5m2 min
2739mm
Fig A3-1 Minimum room sizes

1800mm min 1400mm min
Bathroom
3m2 min
2143mm
2778mm
Kitchen
5m2 min 685mm
785mm
900mm mini
890mm
Entrance Shower
1.5m2 min
1667mm
3000mm
685mm
750mm min
4000mm
Main room
12m2 min
1333mm
WC
1m2 min
685mm
Fig A3-2 Typical furniture arrangement

Other room
7.5m2 min
2500mm minimum 2500mm minimum
3000mm 3000mm
Fig A3-3 Typical furniture arrangement - 7.5 m2 room

3.3.4.4 Minimum dimensions.
Habitable rooms shall not be less than 2.50m in any horizontal dimension.
Exception: minimum
Kitchen 1.80m wide.
Bathroom 1.40m wide.
Shower 0.90m wide.
Toilet (WC) 0.75m wide and 1.25m long.
Corridor 1.00m wide.
Stair 1.00m wide.
3.3.4.5 Height effect on room area.
Portions of a room with a sloping ceiling measuring less than 1.50m or a furred ceiling measuring
less than 2.15m from the finished floor to the finished ceiling shall not be considered as contributing to
the minimum required habitable area for that room.
3.3.5 Ceiling height
3.3.5.1 Minimum height.
3.3.5.1.1 Habitable rooms
Habitable rooms (living, sleeping, eating or cooking room) and basement shall have a ceiling
height of not less than 2.40m. See figures A3-4 Habitable room area
3.3.5.1.2 Other rooms
Other rooms e.g. corridors, bathrooms, toilet rooms and laundry shall have a ceiling height of not
less than 2.15m.
3.3.5.1.3 Measurement
The required height shall be measured from the finish floor to the lowest projection from the
ceiling.
3.3.6 Minimum passage
The minimum passage for the access to the dwelling and each room shall be as follows
3.3.6.1 Main entrance
Almost one access door from outside shall be not less than 900mm wide and 2000mm high.
3.3.6.2 Habitable rooms and secondary rooms e.g. Store and laundry
All passage for the access from another room or from the corridor shall be not less than 785mm
wide and 2000mm high
3.3.6.3 Other rooms e.g. Bathroom and toilet

All passage for the access from another room or from the corridor shall be not less than 685mm
wide and 2000mm high
Room total area
Habitable area
2.40m area
Nota: 2.40m area >= 80% of habitable area
2400mm
2150mm lowest habitable part
1500mm minimum
Fig A3-4 Habitable room area

3.3.7 Sanitation
3.3.7.1 Toilet facilities.
Every dwelling unit shall be provided with a water closet or privy, lavatory basin, and a bathtub or
shower.
3.3.7.2 Kitchen.
Each dwelling unit shall be provided with a kitchen area and every kitchen area shall be provided
with a sink.
3.3.7.3 Sewage disposal.
All plumbing fixtures shall be connected to a sanitary sewer or to an approved private sewage
disposal system.
3.3.7.3.1 Septic tank

The capacity of the septic tank shall be calculated on the basis of 500 litres of sewage per person,
full time user.
The minimum capacity is 2,500 litres
The water table must be a minimum of 1 metre deepest than the septic tank.
See figure A3-11 for 2500 litres and A3-12 for 3200 litres septic tank.
See also "Code of Practice for the Design and Construction of Septic Tanks and Associated
Secondary Treatment and Disposal System" TTS 16 80 400: 1986.
Note: The above figures complied with this code.
3.3.7.3.2 Soak-away pit

See figure A3-13
The water table must be a minimum of 1 metre deepest than the soak-away.
3.3.7.3.3 Draining trench

Where is impossible to make a soak-away, a draining trench shall be used See figure A3-14
3.3.7.4 Water supply to fixtures.
All plumbing fixtures shall be connected to an approved water supply.

Kitchen sinks, lavatory basins, bathtubs, showers, bidets, laundry tubs and washing machine
outlets shall be connected to the water supply system.
3.3.8 Toilet, bath and shower spaces
3.3.8.1 Space required.
Fixtures shall be spaced as per Figure A3-5 Toilet, bath and shower spaces required.
3.3.8.2 Bathtub and shower spaces.
Bathtub and shower floors and walls shall be finished with a smooth, hard and non-absorbent
surface. Such wall surfaces shall extend to a height of not less than 1.80m above the floor.
min 100mm min 100mm min 100mm
clearance mini. 600mm
Lavatories
min 50mm
Wall
Tub
Shower min 900mm
900mm min Clearance in front of

opening 600mm min
min 375mm min 300mm
Tub
Clearance min 600mm
Tub Water closet

or bidet
Fig A3-5 Toilet, bath and shower space required

Ventilation pipe 100mm
Inspection dia 300mm
Cleanout 100mm
100
590 Tie beam 1210
6 dia 10mm
Outlet
Sewage inlet
400
900
8 dia 10mm
75
slope 2.5% (1 in 40)

900
1192
2 150
1600
500 1462
dia 12mm every 200mm
900
150
inside waterproof liner 408
45
°

both directions
4 dia 12x 2400mm every 2 rows
and tie beam 121 0
900
100
2059 All concrete blocks filled with concrete

min 1500mm/building
min 1500mm
or boundary 2365
Fig A3-11 Septic tank 2500 litres - 5 persons maxi

Ventilation pipe 100mm Inspection dia 300mm
Cleanout 100mm
100
6 dia 12mm 652 Tie beam 1376
Outlet
Sewage inlet
400
900
8 dia 12mm
75
slope 2.5% (1 in 40)

1072
1192
2150
1600
550 1657
dia 12mm every 200mm 950
900
150
inside waterproof liner
950
408
45 °

4 dia 12x 2500mm every 2 rows both directions
and tie beam
550
1072
1376
100
min 1500mm/building 2295

All concrete blocks filled with concrete
min 1500mm
or boundary
2600
Fig A3-12 Septic tank 3200 litres - 8 persons maxi

Top soil and vegetation
min 2500mm /building min 1000mm/boundary
1700 square
dia. 1400mm
Inlet
50mm flat silica stone
25mm stone
Natural sand
vein
(porous layer)
1100
FIG A3-13 Soak-away
min 2500mm /building min 1000/boundary

Top soil and vegetation Perforated 100mm pipe
150
general slope 2% (1 in 50)
Inlet
650
1200
400
Natural sand vein

500
25mm stone
10 metres minimum
FIG A3-14 Draining trench

3.3.9 Glazing
3.3.9.1 Identification.
Each pane of glazing installed in hazardous locations shall be provided with a manufacturers or
installers label, designating the type and thickness of glass and the safety glazing standard with which
it complies, which is visible in the final installation. The label shall be acid etched, sandblasted,
ceramic-fired, embossed mark, or shall be of a type, which once applied cannot be removed without
being destroyed.
3.3.9.1.1 Identification of multipane assemblies.
2
Multipane assemblies having individual panes not exceeding 0.10m in exposed area shall have
at least one pane in the assembly identified. All other panes in the assembly shall be labelled.
3.3.9.2 Louvered windows or jalousies.
Regular, float, wired or patterned glass in jalousies and louvered windows shall be no thinner than
nominal 4.80mm and no longer than 1.20m. Exposed glass edges shall be smooth.
3.3.9.2.1 Wired glass prohibited.
Wired glass with wire exposed on longitudinal edges shall not be used in jalousies or louvered
windows.
3.3.9.3 Human impact loads.
Individual glazed areas including glass mirrors in hazardous locations such as those indicated
shall pass the test requirements of CPSC 16-CFR, Part 1201.
3.3.9.4 Hazardous locations.
The following shall be considered specific hazardous locations for the purposes of glazing:
1.Glazing in ingress and means of egress doors except jalousies.
2.Glazing in fixed and sliding panels of sliding (patio) door assemblies and panels in doors
including walk-in closets.
3.Glazing in storm doors.
4.Glazing in all unframed swinging doors.
5.Glazing in doors and enclosures for hot tubs, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, bathtubs and
showers. Glazing in any part of a building wall enclosing these compartments where the bottom
exposed edge of the glazing is less than 1.50m measured vertically above any standing or walking
surface.
6.Glazing, in an individual fixed or operable panel adjacent to a door where the nearest vertical
edge is within a 600mm arc of the door in a closed position and whose bottom edge is less than 1.50m
above the floor or walking surface.
7.Glazing in an individual fixed or operable panel, other than those locations described in Items 5
and 6 above, that meets all of the following conditions:
2
7.1 Exposed area of an individual pane greater than 0.80m .
7.2 Bottom edge less than 450mm above the floor.
7.3 Top edge greater than 900mm above the floor.
7.4 One or more walking surfaces within 900mm horizontally of the glazing.
8. All glazing in railings regardless of an area or height above a walking surface. Included are
structural baluster panels and non-structural in-fill panels.
9. Glazing in walls and fences enclosing indoor and outdoor swimming pools where the bottom
edge of the poolside is (1) less than 1.50m above a walking surface and (2) within 1.50m horizontally
of the water’s edge. This shall apply to single glazing and all panes in multiple glazing.
3.3.9.5 Wind and dead loads on glass.
3.3.9.5.1 Vertical glass.
All glass sloped 15 degrees or less from vertical in windows, window walls, doors and other
exterior applications shall be designed to resist the wind loads specified in Clause 2.3 Design criteria
Table 1 Design pressure for winds. Glazing designed in accordance with these provisions shall be
firmly supported on all four edges.
3.3.9.5.2 Sloped glazing.
All glass sloped more than 15 degrees from vertical in skylights, sunspaces, sloped roofs and
other exterior applications shall be designed to resist the most critical combinations of loads.
3.3.9.5.3 Thicker glass.
Allowable loads for glass thicker than 6.4 mm shall be determined in accordance with ASTM E
1300.
3.3.9.6 Skylights and sloped glazing.
3.3.9.6.1 Definition.
Any installation of glass or other transparent or translucent glazing material installed at a slope of
15 degrees or more from vertical. Glazing materials in skylights, solariums, sunspaces, roofs and
sloped walls are included in this definition.
3.3.9.6.2 Permitted materials.
The following types of glazing may be used:

1. Laminated glass with a minimum 0.40mm poly-vinyl-butyral interlayer for glass panes 1.50m2 or
less in area located such that the highest point of the glass is not more than 3.60m above a walking
surface or other accessible area; for higher or larger sizes, the minimum interlayer thickness shall be
0.80mm.
2. Fully tempered glass.
3. Heat-strengthened glass.
4. Wired glass.
5. Approved rigid plastics.
3.3.9.6.3 Screens general.
For fully tempered or heat-strengthened glass, a retaining screen shall be installed below the
glass, except for fully tempered glass.
3.3.9.6.4 Screens with multiple glazing.
When the inboard pane is fully tempered, heat-strengthened, or wired glass, a retaining screen
shall be installed below the glass.
3.3.9.6.5 Screens not required.
Screens shall not be required when fully tempered glass is used as single glazing or the bottom
pane in multiple glazing and either of the following conditions is met:
2
1. Glass area 1.50m or less. Highest point of glass not more than 3.60m above a walking surface
or other accessible area, nominal glass thickness not more than 4.80mm, and (for multiple glazing
only) the other pane or panes fully tempered, laminated or wired glass.
2
2. Glass area greater than 1.50m . Glass sloped 30 degrees or less from vertical and highest point
of glass not more than 3.00m above a walking surface or other accessible area.
3.3.9.6.6 Screen characteristics.
The screen and its fastenings shall

1 - be capable of supporting twice the weight of the glazing.
2 - be firmly and substantially fastened to the framing members, and
3 - have a mesh opening of no more than 25 mm by 25 mm.
3.3.9.6.7 Curbs for skylights.
All unit skylights installed in a roof with a pitch flatter than 25 percent slope shall be mounted on a
curb extending at least 100mm above the plane of the roof unless otherwise specified in the
manufacturer’s installation instructions.
3.3.10 Enclosed garages
3.3.10.1 Opening protection.
Openings from a private garage directly into a room used for sleeping purposes shall not be
permitted.
Other openings between the garage and residence shall be equipped with either solid wood doors
not less than 35 mm in thickness or 20-minute fire-rated doors.
3.3.10.1.1 Duct penetration.
Ducts penetrating and installed in the walls or ceilings separating the dwelling from the garage
shall be constructed of a minimum 0.50mm sheet steel and shall have no openings into the garage.
3.3.10.2 Separation required.
Enclosed garage shall be separated from the residence with ½ hr fire rated wall and/or slab.
3.3.10.3 Floor surface.
Garage and carport floor surfaces shall be of approved non-combustible material.

The area of floor used for parking of automobiles or other vehicles shall be sloped to facilitate the
movement of liquids to a drain or toward the main vehicle entry doorway.
Exception:
Asphalt surfaces shall be permitted at ground level in carports only.
3.3.11 Emergency escape and rescue openings
3.3.11.1 Emergency escape and rescue required.
Basements with habitable space and every sleeping room shall have at least one openable
emergency escape and rescue window or exterior door opening for emergency escape and rescue.
Where openings are provided as a means of escape and rescue they shall have a sill height of not
more 1.10m above the floor. The net clear opening dimensions required by this section shall be
obtained by the normal operation of the window or door opening from the inside. Escape and rescue
window openings with a finished sill height below the adjacent ground elevation shall be provided with
a window well.
3.3.11.1.1 Minimum opening area.

2
All emergency escape and rescue openings shall have a minimum net clear opening of 0.50m .
3.3.11.1.2 Minimum opening height.
The minimum net clear opening height shall be 600mm.

3.3.11.1.3 Minimum opening width.
The minimum net clear opening width shall be 600mm.

3.3.11.2 Window wells.
The horizontal dimensions of a window well shall allow the emergency escape and rescue
opening to be fully opened. The horizontal dimensions of the window well shall provide a minimum net
clear area of 0.85m2 with a minimum horizontal projection and width of 900 mm.
3.3.11.2.1 Ladder and steps.
Window wells with a vertical depth greater than 1.10m below the adjacent ground level shall be
equipped with a permanently affixed ladder or steps usable with the window in the fully open position.
Ladders or rungs shall have an inside width of at least 300mm, shall project at least 75mm from
the wall and shall be spaced not more than 450mm on centre vertically for the full height of the window
well.
3.3.11.3 Bars, grills, covers and screens.
Bars, grills, covers, screens or other obstructions placed over emergency escape and rescue
openings or window wells that serve such openings shall be releasable or removable from the inside
without the use of a key, tool or special knowledge.
3.3.12 Exits
3.3.12.1 Exit door required.
Not less than one exit door conforming to this chapter shall be provided from each dwelling unit.
The required exit door shall provide for direct access from the habitable portions of the dwelling to the
exterior without requiring travel through a garage or kitchen.
If the distance, measured centre of the corridor, between the house main entrance and the inside
kitchen door is more than 6m a second exit is required directly in the kitchen.
3.3.12.2 Type of lock or latch.
All egress doors shall be readily openable from the side from which egress is to be made without
the use of a key.
3.3.12.3 Type and Size.
The required exit door shall be a side-hinged door that allow a clear opening not less than 900mm
in width and 2025mm in height.
Other exterior hinged or sliding doors shall not be required to comply with these minimum
dimensions.
3.3.12.4 Hallways.
The minimum width of a hallway or exit access shall be not less than 1m.
3.3.12.5 Exit facilities.
Exterior exit balconies, stairs and similar exit facilities shall be positively anchored to the primary
structure at not over 2.40m on centre or shall be designed for lateral forces. Such attachment shall not
be accomplished by use of toenails or nails subject to withdrawal.
minimum opening in slab
2m min Top landing

2.15m min
12 highs maximum
Intermediate landing
Minimum clearance 2m min
Floor to floor
2.15m min
12 highs maximum
Bottom landing
900mm min 900mm min 900mm min
1m mini
900mm min 1m min
1m min
900mm min 900mm 1m min
1m min
900mm
Fig A3-6 Stairs and landings

3.3.13 Landings on stairways
3.3.13.1 Landings required.
There shall be a floor or landing at the top and bottom of each stairway. There shall be a floor or
landing on each side of an exit door.
3.3.13.2 Size.
See Figure A3-6 Stairs and landings
The width of each landing shall not be less than the stairway or door served. Every landing shall
have a minimum dimension of 900mm measured in the direction of travel.
3.3.13.3 Location.
The floor or landing shall be not more than 35mm lower than the top of the threshold.
3.3.13.4 Landing required.
A minimum 1m by 900mm landing shall be provided:

1. At the top and bottom of ramps,
2. Where doors open onto ramps,
3. Where ramps changes direction,
4. After no more than 12 high steps.
3.3.14 Pedestrian ramps

See figure A3-7 Ramps and landings
3.3.14.1 Maximum slope.
Ramps shall have a maximum slope of 10 percent.

3.3.14.2 Handrails required.
Handrails shall be provided on at least one side of all ramps.

3.3.14.3 Landing required.
A minimum 1m by 1m landing shall be provided:

1. At the top and bottom of ramps,
2. Where doors open onto ramps,
3. Where ramps changes direction,
3.3.15 Stairways
3.3.15.1 Width.
Stairways shall not be less than 900mm in clear width at all point.
3.3.15.2 Treads and risers.
The maximum riser height shall be 200mm and the minimum tread depth shall be 250mm. Rise
and tread should respect the formula 600mm < 2xRise + Tread < 640mm.
The riser height shall be measured vertically between leading edges of the adjacent treads. The
tread depth shall be measured horizontally between the vertical planes of the foremost projection of
adjacent treads and at a right angle to the tread’s leading edge.
The walking surface of treads and landings of a stairway shall be sloped no steeper than 2 percent
slope.
The greatest riser height within any flight of stairs shall not exceed the smallest by more than 5
mm. The greatest tread depth within any flight of stairs shall not exceed the smallest by more than
10mm.
The treads finishing should not be slippery.
Top landing
Bottom landing Maximum slope 10% 1m minimum
1m minimum
1m minimum 1m minimum
Bottom landing Up Top landing

1m minimum
Bottom landing Up
1m minimum
Intermediate landing
Top landing Up
1m minimum
Bottom landing
Up
1m minimum Intermediate landing
Up
Top landing
Fig A3-7 Ramps and landings

tread depth 250mm min
R 10mm maximum
riser height 200mm max
250mm min
100mm max
200mm maximum
Open risers
Sloped risers
30° max 30° max
Min 20mm / Max 32mm
R 10mm max
Nosing
Fig A 3-8 Steps (Treads, risers and nosing)

Section F
1m minimum
900mm minimum
R mini = 5mm
2m min
32mm min/ 65mm max
Handrail
40mm minimum
F 1m (+/- 10mm)
One handrail
900mm minimum
32mm min / 65mm max

40mm minimum 40mm minimum
Two handrails
Fig A 3-9 Stair handrails

3.3.15.2.1 Profile.
The radius of curvature at the leading edge of the tread shall be no greater than 10mm.
See figure A3-8 Steps (Treads, risers and nosing)
When nosing is provided, shall be not less that 20mm but not more than 32 mm on stairways with
solid risers. Bevelling of nosing shall not exceed 10mm.
Risers shall be vertical or sloped from the underside of the leading edge of the tread above at an
angle not more than 30 degrees from the vertical. Open risers are permitted, provided that the
opening between treads does not permit the passage of a 100mm sphere.
3.3.15.3 Headroom.
The minimum headroom in all parts of the stairway shall not be less than 2.00m measured
vertically from the sloped plane adjoining the tread nosing or from the floor surface of the landing or
platform.
See figures A3-6 and A3-9.
3.3.15.4 Winders.
Winders are permitted, provided that the depth of the tread at a point not more than 500mm from
the side where the treads are narrower should be not less than the depth of tread of the other section.
The continuous handrail required shall be located on the side where the tread is narrower.
3.3.15.5 Spiral stairs.

Spiral stairways are permitted, provided the minimum width shall be 700mm with each tread
having a 200mm minimum tread depth at 350mm from the narrow edge. All treads shall be identical,
and the rise shall be no more than 240mm. Minimum headroom of 2.00m shall be provided.
3.3.15.6 Circular stairways.

Circular stairways shall have a tread depth at a point not more than 350mm from the side where
the treads are narrower of not less than 300mm and the minimum depth of any tread shall not be less
than 150mm. Tread depth at any walking line, measured a consistent distance from a side of the
stairway, shall be uniform.
3.3.15.7 Wooden stair protection.

Any enclosed accessible space under stairs shall have walls, under stair surface and any soffits
protected on the enclosed side with 13mm gypsum board.
Note: All stairs shall be provided with illumination in accordance with Electrical Code.
3.3.16 Handrails
3.3.16.1 Handrails.
Handrails having minimum heights of 1.00m measured vertically from the nosing of the treads
shall be provided on at least one side of stairways. All required handrails shall be continuous for the
full length of any stairs with three or more risers. Ends shall be returned or shall terminate in newel
posts or safety terminals. Handrails adjacent to a wall shall have a space of not less than 40mm
between the wall and the handrail.
See figures A3-9 Stair handrails and A3-10 Guards.
Stair with string
Stair without string
Ø100mm min
1m (+/- 10mm) 1m (+/- 10mm)
String
Ø100mm min
Not acceptable
Ø100mm min
1m minimum
Ø100mm min
Not acceptable
height more than 750mm
Fig A3-10 Guards

3.3.16.2 Handrail grip size.
The handgrip portion of handrails shall have a cross section of 32mm minimum to 65mm
maximum. Other handrail shapes, which provide an equivalent grasping surface, are permissible.
Edges shall have a minimum radius of 3mm.
3.3.17 Guards
3.3.17.1 Guards required.
Porches, balconies or raised floor surfaces located more than 750mm above the floor or grade
below shall have guards not less than 1.00m in height. Open sides of stairs with a total rise of more
than 750mm above the floor or grade below shall have guards not less than 1.00m in height measured
vertically from the nosing of the treads.
See Figure A3-10 Guards
3.3.17.2 Guard rail-opening limitations.
Required guards on open sides of stairways, raised floor areas, balconies and porches shall have
intermediate rails or ornamental closures which do not allow passage of a sphere 100mm or more in
diameter. Required guards shall not be constructed with horizontal rails or other ornamental pattern
that results in a ladder effect.
3.3.18 Foam plastic
3.3.18.1 General.
The provisions of this section shall state the requirements and uses of foam plastic as insulation,
structural filling or decoration
3.3.18.2 Foam characteristics
3.3.18.2.1 Internal characteristics

3
The minimum density shall be more than 3 kN/m .
3.3.18.2.2 Surface burning characteristics.
All foam plastic or foam plastic cores in manufactured assemblies used in building construction
shall have a flame-spread rating of not more than 75 and shall have a smoke-developed rating of not
more than 450 when tested for the maximum thickness intended for use in accordance with ASTM E
84.
3.3.18.3 Foam protection

All foam shall be protected from inside and outside by appropriated barrier to prevent damage
from.
1- Vapour (humidity from hot air migrating from the hot side to the cold side of the wall, in this
region from outside to inside)
2- Fire (both sides)
3- Rodent (rats, mice, etc.)
4- Termites
3.3.18.3.1 Thermal barrier
Foam plastic shall be separated from the exterior of the building by minimum vapour barrier as
follows:
Polythene 0.150 mm thick (included in the wall complex)

or metallic cladding (corrosion resistant sheet of 0.50 mm minimum)
or 25mm thickness of masonry or concrete
3.3.18.3.2 Fire barrier
To allow a minimal ignition protection of 15minutes a fire barrier shall be used as follows:
3.3.18.3.2.1 From outside
Metallic cladding (corrosion resistant sheet of 0.50 mm minimum)

or 20mm structural wood
or 25mm particleboard.
3.3.18.3.2.2 From inside
Metallic cladding
or 20mm structural wood
or 25mm particle board
or 13mm gypsum board (the gypsum board shall be installed using a mechanical fastening
system to ensure that the gypsum board will remain in place when exposed to fire).
3.3.18.3.3 Rodent damage (rats, mice, etc.)

All foam shall be externally protected against any destruction by rodents. This applies to the edge
of the foam.
3.3.18.3.4 Termite damage.
The use of foam plastics in areas of termite infestation shall be in accordance with this code.
3.3.18.4 Specific requirements.
3.3.18.4.1 Foam-filled doors.
Foam-filled doors are exempt from the requirements of this Section.

3.3.18.4.2 Interior trim.
Foam plastic trim defined as picture moulds, chair rails, baseboards, handrails, ceiling beams,
door trim and window trim may be installed, provided that:
3
1. The minimum density is 3.50kN/m ,
2. The maximum thickness of the trim is 13mm and the maximum width is 100mm, The trim
constitutes no more than 10 percent of the area of any wall or ceiling, and
The flame-spread rating does not exceed 75 when tested per ASTM E 84. The smoke-developed
rating is not limited.
3.3.19 Flame spread and smoke density
3.3.19.1 Wall and ceiling.
Wall and ceiling finishes shall have a flame-spread classification of not greater than 200.
3.3.19.2 Smoke developed index.
Wall and ceiling finishes shall have a smoke developed index of not greater than 450.
3.3.19.3 Testing.
Tests shall be made in accordance with ASTM E 84.
3.3.20 Insulation
3.3.20.1 Insulation.
Insulation materials, including facings, such as vapour barriers or breather papers installed within
floor-ceiling assemblies, roof-ceiling assemblies, wall assemblies, crawl spaces and attics shall have a
flame-spread index not to exceed 25 with an accompanying smoke developed index not to exceed
450 when tested in accordance with ASTM E 84.
3.3.20.2 Loose-fill insulation.
Loose-fill insulation materials, which cannot be, mounted in the ASTM E 84 apparatus without a
screen or artificial supports shall have a flame-spread rating not to exceed 25 with an accompanying
smoke-developed factor not to exceed 450 when tested in accordance with CAN/ULC-SI02-M88.
3.3.20.3 Cellulose loose-fill insulation.
Cellulose loose-fill insulation shall comply with CPSC 16-CFR, Parts 1209 and 1404. Each
package of such insulating material shall be clearly labelled in accordance with CPSC 16-CFR, Parts
1209 and 1404.
3.3.20.4 Exposed attic insulation.
All exposed insulation materials installed on attic floors shall have a critical radiant flux not less
2
than 1200 watt/m .
3.3.20.5 Testing.
Tests for critical radiant flux shall be made in accordance with ASTM E 970.
3.3.21 Dwelling unit separation
3.3.21.1 Multi-family dwellings.
Dwelling units in multi-family dwellings shall be separated from each other by wall and/or floor
assemblies of not less than 1 hour fire-resistive rating when tested in accordance with ASTM E 119.
Fire-resistive-rated floor-ceiling and wall assemblies shall extend to and be tight against the
exterior wall, and wall assemblies shall extend to the underside of the roof sheathing.
3.3.21.1.1 Supporting construction.
When floor assemblies are required to be fire-resistive, the supporting construction of such
assemblies shall have an equal or greater fire-resistive rating.
3.3.21.2 Townhouses.
Each townhouse shall be considered a separate building and separated by walls for exterior
walls.
A common 2-hour fire resistive wall is permitted for townhouses if such walls do not contain
plumbing or mechanical equipment, ducts or vents in the cavity of the common wall.
Electrical installations shall be installed in accordance with TTS 26 20 505 Electrical code.
Penetrations of electrical outlet boxes shall be in accordance with this code.
3.3.21.2.1 Continuity.
The common wall for townhouses shall be continuous from the foundation to the underside of the
roof sheathing, deck or slab and shall extend the full length of the common wall.
3.3.21.2.2 Parapets.
Where parapets are to be provided for townhouses as an extension of the common wall in
accordance with the following:
Where roof surfaces adjacent to the wall are at the same elevation, the parapet shall extend not
less than 800mm above the roof surfaces.
Where roof surfaces adjacent to the wall are at different elevations and the higher roof is not more
than 800 mm above the lower roof, the parapet shall extend not less than 800mm above the lower roof
surface.
3.3.21.2.3 Structural independence.
Each individual townhouse shall be structurally independent.
3.3.21.3 Exceptions:
Foundations supporting common walls.

Structural roof and wall covering sheathing from each unit may fasten to the common wall
framing.
Non structural wall coverings.
Flashing at termination of roof covering over common wall.
Townhouses separated by a common two-hour fire-resistive wall.
3.3.21.4 Sound transmission.
Wall and floor-ceiling assemblies separating dwelling units shall provide airborne sound insulation
for walls and both airborne and impact sound insulation for floor-ceiling assemblies.
3.3.21.4.1 Airborne sound.
Airborne sound insulation for wall and floor-ceiling assemblies shall meet a Sound Transmission
Class (STC) of 45 when tested in accordance with ASTM E 90.
3.3.21.4.2 Structural-borne sound.
Floor/ceiling assemblies between dwelling units or between a dwelling unit and a public or service
area within a structure shall have an impact insulation class ( IIC ) rating of not less than 45 when
tested in accordance with ASTM E492.
3.3.21.5 Rated penetrations.
Penetrations of wall or floor/ceiling assemblies are required to be fire resistant or should be

protected in accordance with this section.
3.3.21.5.1 Through penetrations.
Through penetrations of fire resistance rated wall or floor assemblies shall comply with this
section.
Exception: Where the penetrating items are steel, ferrous or copper pipes or steel conduits, the
annular space shall be permitted to be protected as follows:
1 In concrete or masonry wall or floor assemblies where the penetrating items is a maximum of
150mm nominal diameter and the opening is a maximum of 90 000mm2, concrete, grout or mortar
shall be permitted where installed in the full thickness of the wall or floor assemblies.
2 The material used to fill the annular space shall prevent the passage of flame and hot gases at
the location of the penetration for the time period equivalent to the fire resistance rating of the
construction.
3.3.21.5.1.1 Fire resistance rated assembly.
Penetrations shall be installed as tested in the approved fire resistance rated assembly.
3.3.21.5.1.2 Penetration fire-stop system.
Penetrations shall be protected by an approved penetration fire-stop system installed as tested in

accordance with ASTM E814, with a minimum positive pressure differential of 0.25mm of water (3 Pa)
and shall have an F rating of not less than the required fire resistance rating of the wall or floor /ceiling
assembly penetrated.
3.3.21.5.2 Membrane penetrations.
Where walls are required to have a minimum 1hour fire-resistance rating, recessed light fixtures
shall be so installed such that the required fire resistance will not be reduced.
3.3.21.6 Non-rated penetrations.
Penetrations of horizontal assemblies without a required fire resistance rating shall comply with
this section.
3.3.21.6.1 Non combustible penetrating items.
Non combustible penetrating items that connect not more than three stories are permitted
provided that the annular space is filled with an approved non-combustible material or approved
penetration fire-stop system.
3.3.21.6.2 Combustible penetrating items.
Combustible penetrating items that connect not more than two stories are permitted provided that
the annular space is filled with an approved material to resist the free passage of flame and the
products of combustion.
3.3.22 Moisture vapour retarders
3.3.22.1 Moisture control.
In all framed walls, floors and roof/ceilings comprising elements of the building thermal envelope,
an approved vapour retarder having a maximum rating of 1.0 perm, when tested in accordance with
ASTM E96-92, (Standard Test Methods for Water Vapour Transmission of Materials), shall be
installed on the warm side of the insulation.
3.3.23 Protection against decay
3.3.23.1 Location required.
In areas subject to decay damage the following locations shall require the use of an approved
species and grade of lumber, pressure preservatively treated, or decay-resistant.
See Table C1 Timber names for use in Trinidad & Tobago.
Wood joists or the bottom of a wood structural floor when closer than 450mm or wood girders
when closer than 300mm to exposed ground in crawl spaces or un-excavated area located within the
periphery of the building foundation.
All sills or plates, which rest on concrete or masonry exterior walls and are less than 200mm from
exposed ground.
Sills and sleepers on a concrete or masonry slab, which is in direct contact with the ground unless,
separated from such slab by an impervious moisture barrier.
The ends of wood girders entering exterior masonry or concrete walls having clearances of less
than 15mm on tops, sides and ends.
Wood siding, sheathing and wall framing on the exterior of a building have a clearance of less than
150mm from the ground.
Wood structural members supporting moisture-permeable floors or roofs which are exposed to the
weather, such as concrete or masonry slabs, unless separated from such floors or roofs by an
impervious moisture barrier.
Wood furring strips or other wood framing members attached directly to the interior of exterior
masonry walls or concrete walls below grade except where an approved vapour retarder is applied
between the wall and the furring strips or framing members.
Normal Recommended use Resistant to
T n T local name density External Internal Roofing Comments
at 12% Furniture Flooring Structure Decay Termites
joinery joinery shingle
Local woods
Angelia 0.80 x
Balata 1.05 x x x beefwood
Bamboo scaffolding
Bois gris 0.95 x X resist to "Capricorn"
Boya mulatre or bois mulatre 0.80 fineleaf
Cajuca 0.48
Caribbean pine 0.80
Cedar 0.50 x x
Crabwood or Crappo 0.70 x x x x
Determa 0.62 - x x X Laurier
Fiddlewood (black) 0.80
Fiddlewood (white) 0.72
Galba or Santa Maria 0.64
Gommier 0.56
Guatecare 1.04
Gumbo limbo see Gommier
Hog plum 0.48
Lay lay
Mahoe 0.56
Mahoe or sterculia 0.60 x x maho cochon
Mahogany
Mangrue (yellow) or Manni 0.70 x x x x x x
Milkwood 0.56
Mora or Muru 0.96 x x
Nargusta or white oliver 0.80 x x x x
Olivier mangue or Poirier 0.80
Pink poui or apamate 0.56
Podocarp or Wild pine 0.56
Poui (black) 1.12
Purple heart 0.88
Redwood X
Resclu or Water wood x
Saman 0.56
Sandbox 0.45 x must be treated
Sardine 0.80
Silk cotton tree 0.38 packaging
Simarouba 0.45 x x acajou blanc
Snakewood or Galia 1.15 art craft
Tabebuia white or Calabash x
Tapana 0.80
Tapanare or Suradam 0.70 x x X
Teak 0.65 x x x x x
Tonka 1.08 x x x art craft
Yellow poui or Bethabara 1.12 x x x green heart?
Table C1 Timber names for use in Trinidad & Tobago (first part)
Normal Recommended use Resistant to
T n T local name density External Internal Roofing Comments
at 12% Furniture Flooring Structure Decay Termites
joinery joinery shingle
Imported woods
Tropical
An gelique 0.80 x x x x x X basralocust
Babeon 0.47 x
Bagasse 0.82 x x x x x X
Cajuca 0.48
Eastern red cedar X
Gommier x
Green heart 1.04 x X
Gronfoeloe 0.70 x x x
Kopie 0.82 x x x x bois caca
Locust or Courbarli 0.85 x x x x locust
Manbarklak 1.02 x X
Pakuri 0.83 x x x x
Wacapou 0.90 x x X brown heart
Wallaba 0.85 x x
Wamara 1.20 x iron wood
0.58 x x x x
0.50 x bois lait or bois vache
0.85 x x
Non tropical
Douglas fir 0.61 x x x x from W Canada & USA
Pitchpine 0.52 x x
References
TTS 16 40 000:1978 1978

USDA web site 2000
Magazine 2000
Les bois de Guyane 1990
Construire en bois de Guyane 1990
Prinicipaux bois indigènes et
exotiques 1975
Table C1 Timber names for use in Trinidad & Tobago (second part)
3.3.23.1.1 Ground contact.
All wood in contact with the ground and which supports permanent structures intended for human
occupancy shall be approved pressure preservatively treated wood suitable for ground contact use.
3.3.23.1.2 Geographical areas.
In geographical areas where experience has demonstrated a specific need, approved naturally
durable or pressure preservatively treated wood shall be used for those portions of wood members
which form the structural supports of buildings, balconies, porches, or similar permanent building
appurtenances when such members are exposed to the weather without adequate protection from a
roof, eaves, overhang or other covering which would prevent moisture or water accumulation on the
surface or at joints between members.
Such members may include:
Horizontal members such as girders, joists and decking.
Vertical members such as posts, poles and columns.
Both horizontal and vertical members.
3.3.23.1.3 Post, poles and columns.

Posts, poles, and columns supporting permanent structures which are embedded in concrete in
direct contact with the ground or embedded in concrete exposed to the weather shall he approved
pressure preservatively treated wood suitable for ground contact use.
3.3.23.1.4 Wood columns.
Wood columns shall be approved woods of natural decay resistance or approved pressure
preservatively treated wood.
Posts or columns must be supported by piers or metal pedestals projecting 50mm minimum above
the floor or finish grade and are separated therefrom by an approved impervious moisture barrier.
3.3.23.2 Quality mark.
Lumber and plywood required to be pressure preservatively treated shall bear the quality mark of
an approved inspection agency which maintains continuing supervision, testing and inspection over
the quality of the product.
3.3.23.2.1 Required information.
The required quality mark on each piece of pressure preservatively treated lumber or plywood
shall contain the following information:
Identification of the treating plant.
Type of preservative.
The minimum preservative retention.
End use for which product was treated.
Standard to which product was treated.
Identity of the approved inspection agency.
The designation “Dry,” if applicable.
3.3.23.3 Exception:
Quality marks on lumber less than 25 mm nominal thickness, or lumber less than nominal 25mm
by 125mm or 50mm by 100mm or lumber 900mm or less in length shall be applied by stamping the
faces of exterior pieces or by end labelling not less than 25 percent of the pieces of a bundled unit.
3.3.23.4 Fasteners.
Fasteners for pressure preservative and fire-retardant-treated wood shall be of hot-dipped

galvanised steel, stainless steel, silicon bronzes or copper.
3.3.24 Protection against termites
3.3.24.1 Subterranean termite control.
In areas susceptible to termite damage, methods of protection shall be by chemical soil treatment;
pressure preservatively treated wood in accordance with the AWPA standards, naturally termite-
resistant wood or physical barriers (such as metal or plastic termite shields), or any combination of
these methods.
3.3.24.2 Chemical soil treatment.
The concentration, rate of application and treatment method of the termiticide shall be consistent
with and never less than the termiticide label.
3.3.24.3 Pressure preservatively treated and naturally resistant wood.
See Table C1 Timber names for use in Trinidad & Tobago for the list of naturally termite
resistant wood.
Pressure preservatively treated wood and naturally termite-resistant wood shall not be used as a
physical barrier unless a barrier can be inspected for any termite shelter tubes around the inside and
outside edges and joints of a barrier.
3.3.24.3.1 Field treatment.
Field cut ends, notches and drilled holes of pressure preservatively treated wood shall be
retreated in the field.
3.3.25 Site address
3.3.25.1 Premises identification.
Approved numbers or addresses shall be provided for all new buildings in such a position as to be
plainly visible and legible from the street or road fronting the property.
3.3.26 Flood resistant construction
3.3.26.1 General.
All buildings and structures erected in areas prone to flooding and classified as either flood hazard
areas or coastal high hazard areas shall be constructed and elevated as required by the provisions
contained in this section.
3.3.26.1.1 Structural systems.
All structural systems of all buildings and structures shall be designed, connected and anchored
to resist flotation, collapse or permanent lateral movement due to structural loads and stresses from
flooding equal to the design flood elevation.
3.3.26.1.2 Flood resistant construction.
All buildings and structures erected in flood hazard zones shall be constructed by methods and
practices that minimise flood damage.
3.3.26.1.3 Establishing the design flood elevation.
The design flood elevation shall be used to define areas prone to flooding, and shall describe, at a
minimum, the base flood elevation at the depth or peak elevation of flooding (including wave height)
which has a 1-percent (100-year flood) or greater chance of being equated or exceeded in any given
year. This level should be determined by the physical planning standards
3.3.26.1.4 Lowest floor.
The lowest floor shall be the floor of the lowest enclosed area, including basement, but excluding
any unfurnished flood-resistant enclosure that is useable solely for vehicle parking, building access, or
limited storage provided that such enclosure is not built so as to render the building or structure in
violation of this Section.
3.3.26.1.5 Protection of mechanical and electrical systems.
New and replacement electrical equipment, ventilating, air conditioning plumbing connections,
and other service equipment shall be located at or above the design flood elevation.
Electrical wiring and outlets, switches, junction boxes and panels shall be elevated to or above the
design flood elevation for location of such items in wet locations.
Ducts and duct installation shall not be installed below the design flood elevation.
3.3.26.1.6 Protection of water supply and sanitary sewage systems.
New and replacement water supply systems shall be designed to minimise infiltration of flood
waters into the systems in accordance with the plumbing provisions of this code.
New and replacement sanitary sewage systems shall be designed to minimise infiltration of
floodwaters into systems and discharges from systems into floodwaters.
3.3.26.1.7 Flood resistant materials.
Building materials used below the design flood elevation shall comply with the following:
All wood, including floor sheathing shall be pressure preservatively treated, or decay-resistant for
the list of foreign and local woods See Table C1 Timber names for use in Trinidad & Tobago
3.3.26.1.8 As-built elevation certifications.
A licensed land surveyor or registered designed professional shall certify that the building or
structure is in compliance with the elevation required.
3.3.26.2 Flood hazard areas.
All areas, which have been determined to be prone to flooding but not subject to high velocity
wave action shall be designated as flood hazard areas.
3.3.26.2.1 Elevation requirements.
Buildings and structures shall have lowest floors elevated to or above the design flood elevation;
In areas of shallow flooding, buildings and structures shall have the lowest floor (including
basement) elevated at least as high above the highs natural adjacent grade as the depth number
specified in metre, or at least 600mm if a depth number is not specified;
Basement floors that are below grade on all sides shall be elevated to or above the design flood
elevation.
3.3.26.2.2 Enclosed area below design flood elevation.
Enclosed areas, including crawl spaces, that are below the design flood elevation shall;
Be used solely for parking of vehicles, building access, or storage; and
Be provided with flood openings, which shall meet the following criteria;
a. There shall be a minimum of two openings on different sides of each enclosed area; if a building
has more than one enclosed area below the design flood elevation, each area shall have openings on
exterior walls.
b. The total net area of all openings shall be at least 1/150 of enclosed area.
c. The bottom of each opening shall be 300mm or less above the adjacent ground level.
d. Openings shall be at least 75mm in diameter.
e. Any louvers, screens or other opening covers shall allow the automatic flow of floodwaters into
and out of the enclosed area.
f. Openings installed in doors and windows, which meet requirement (a) through (e), are
acceptable; however, doors and windows without installed openings do not meet the requirement of
this section.
3.3.27 Coastal high hazard areas.
Areas, which have been determined to be subject to wave heights in excess of 900mm or subject
to high velocity wave action or wave induced erosion, shall be designated as coastal high hazard
areas.
All buildings and structures erected in coastal high hazard areas shall be designated and
constructed in accordance with this Sections
3.3.27.1 Elevation requirements.
1. All buildings and structures erected within coastal high hazard areas shall be elevated so that
the lowest portion of all structural members supporting the lowest floor, with the exception of mat or
raft foundations, piling, pile caps, columns, grade beams and bracing, is located at or above the design
flood elevation.
2. Basement floors that are below grade on all sides are prohibited.
3. The use of fill for structural support is prohibited,
4. The placement of fill beneath buildings and structures is prohibited.
3.3.27.2 Foundations.
All buildings and structures erected in coastal high hazard areas shall be supported on pilings or
columns and shall be adequately anchored to such pilings or columns. Piling shall have adequate soil
penetrations to resist the combined wave and wind loads (lateral and uplift). Water loading values
used shall be those associated with the design flood. Wind loading values shall be those required by
this code. Pile embedment shall include consideration of decreased resistance capacity caused by
scour of soil strata surrounding the piling.
Mat, raft, or other foundations, which support columns, shall not be permitted where soil
investigations that indicate that soil material under the mat, raft, or other foundation is subject to scour
or erosion from wave-velocity flow conditions.
3.3.27.3 Walls below design flood elevation.
Walls and partitions are permitted below the elevated floor, provided that such walls and partitions
are not part of the structural support of the building or structure and;
1. Are constructed with insect screening or open lattice; or
2. Designed to break away or collapse without causing collapse, displacement or other structural
damage to the elevated portion of the building or supporting foundation system.
Such walls, framing, and connections shall have a design safe loading resistance of not less than
2 2
0.50 kN/m and no more than 1.00 kN/m ; or
2
3. Where wind loading values of this code exceed 1.00 kN/m , a registered design professional
shall certify the following:
A. Collapse of walls and partitions below the design flood elevation shall result from a water load
less than that which would occur during the design flood; and
B. The elevated portion of the building and supporting foundation system shall not be subject to
collapse, displacement, or other structural damage due to the effects of wind and flood loads acting
simultaneously on all building components (structural and non-structural). Water loading values used
shall be those associated with the design flood. Wind loading values used shall be those required by
this code.
3.3.27.4 Enclosed areas below design flood elevation.
Enclosed areas below the design flood elevation shall be used solely for parking of vehicles,
building access, or Storage.
3.4 Basic materials
3.4.1 Reinforced Concrete
3.4.1.1 Materials
Concrete shall be manufactured from ordinary Portland cement, sand, gravel and water.
3.4.1.1.1
The cement shall be fresh and contained in unopened bags, which have been well protected from
moisture and stored above the ground.
3.4.1.1.2
The sand shall be clean (i.e. free of clayey lumps, organic materials and broken shells), natural
sharp sand, preferably taken from an inland source. Beach sand shall not be used.
3.4.1.1.3
The coarse aggregate shall be of crushed stone or gravel with a size between 15 and 25mm. The
aggregate shall be free of dust coating. In areas where only broken stone is available, care shall be
taken to use stone as near to 20 mm as practicable.
3.4.1.1.4
Only clean fresh water shall be used for the mixing of concrete.
3.4.1.2 Mixing
3.4.1.2.1
2
A concrete mix producing concrete with a minimum compressive cube strength of 21 N/mm at 28
2
days or 16.8 N/mm at 7 days shall be used. The approximate proportions normally required to
3 3
produce such a mix are 42 kg (1 bag) of cement, 0.056 m (1 wheelbarrow) of sand, and 0.084 m (1½
wheelbarrow) of aggregates and approximately 18 l of water.
NOTE: any moisture affects the maximum amount of water required, which may be present in the
aggregate. The quality is therefore reduced when the aggregate is wet.
3.4.1.2.2
The cement shall be added by the bag. The fine and coarse aggregates shall be measured in
3
cubic metre (m ) and the water shall be measured in litre (l).
3.4.1.2.3
For coastal environment conditions the mix shall be upgraded to 42 kg (1 bag) of cement, 0.056
3 3
m (1 wheelbarrow) of sand, 0.056 m (1 wheelbarrow) of aggregate and approximately 15 l of water.
3.4.1.2.4
The concrete shall be mixed by hand or preferably by machine until there are no visible areas of
unmixed materials and a uniform colour is obtained.
Metric system Trinidad and Tobago
Compression at 28 days Number of Number of
Number of
Proportion for one cubic metre (1 m3) wheelbarrow wheelbarrow
bag of
of of
Type of
Cement Sand Gravel kN/m2
concrete
concrete Cement Sand Gravel
controlled
kg 42 kg bag litre litre without any
concrete
control
Grade "E" 150 4 335 665 nscr nscr 1-3-6 1 1.5 3
Grade "D" 250 6 400 600 nscr nscr 1-2-4 1 1 2
Grade "C" 300 7 335 665 23,000 15,000 1-2-3 1 1 1.5
Grade "B" 350 8 335 665 27,000 18,000 1-2-2 1 1 1
Grade "A" 400 10 335 665 30,000 20,000 2-3-4 2 1.5 2
Note :
Volume of wheelbarrow 57 litres equivalent 2 in the type of concrete
Table B-1 Concrete composition

3.4.1.3 Form work
3.4.1.3.1
The form work into which the concrete is to be placed shall be strongly constructed of straight
timber so braced that no movement or deformation is caused by the wet concrete under normal
construction loads.
3.4.1.3.2
The form work shall have close fitting joints so that no fine aggregate, cement or water is lost
through leakage.
3.4.1.4 Reinforcement
3.4.1.4.1
The minimum requirement for reinforcement steel shall be bars of grade 250 i.e. plain mild steel
2
bars of 250 N/mm (minimum yield) stress. This section is based on grade 250 bars; however, higher
grades of plain or deformed bars may be used.
3.4.1.4.2 Bar bending

The minimum pin diameter size for steel bar bending in accordance with TTS583: 2000 must be
as shown in table B-8
Table B-8 Recommended minimum size bending
Bar size " d " In mm Steel grade
250 420
5 to 16mm 2.5d (12.5 to 40mm) 4d (20 to 64mm)
20 & 25mm Not applicable 5d (100 or 125mm)
32 & 40mm Not applicable 7d (225 or 300mm)
3.4.1.4.3
Reinforcement steel, which shall be free of loose meal scale (rust), shall be properly tied together
by mild steel tying wire. The whole assembly shall be positioned within the form work with
appropriately sized concrete spacers so that the correct concrete cover to the steel is maintained.
3.4.1.4.4
Concrete shall not be vibrated by direct contact between the vibrating instrument and reinforcing
bar. The practice of vibrating the form work shall also not be permitted as this may displace the steel
fixings. The practice of vibrating the concrete shall therefore be used with caution.
3.4.1.4.5
The recommended concrete covers for normal conditions and coastal environmental conditions
are given in table B-2.
Table B-2 — Recommended concrete cover
Type Concrete Cover in mm
Normal Coastal
conditions environmental
conditions
Slabs 25 35
Beams 30 40
Columns 30 40
Surfaces In Contact 75 95
With Earth
NOTEThe recommended concrete cover for coastal environmental

conditions is based on an increase of 25 % for that of normal conditions.
3.4.1.5 Placing Concrete
3.4.1.5.1
Form work shall be thoroughly cleaned to remove sawdust, bits of wood, wire and other debris
before placing concrete in it.
3.4.1.5.2
Transporting the concrete over long distances (unless special equipment is used) shall be
avoided to prevent segregation of its components.
3.4.1.5.3
All runways and routes between the mixer and the area where the concrete is to be used should
be set up beforehand and kept clear, so that the placing of concrete can proceed smoothly without
interruptions.
3.4.1.5.4
The poured concrete shall be compacted in the form work by vibration or rodding, so that dense
concrete is obtained. Where necessary, chutes shall be used to place concrete in tight areas such as
column forms.
3.4.1.5.5
Where floor slabs or roof slabs cannot be poured in one operation, construction joints shall be
used. Professional assistance shall be sought on the proper placing of the construction joints in
suspended slabs.
3.4.1.6 Curing
3.4.1.6.1
The optimum concrete strength shall be obtained by proper curing. To achieve this, the poured
concrete shall be kept moist by wetting with water for two days after it is poured.
3.4.1.6.2
Proprietary curing compounds may be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
3.4.1.7 Stripping of form work
The side form work of beams and columns may be removed from the fresh concrete after 24
hours. The bottom form work and props for suspended beams and slabs shall remain in place for not
less than 10 days.
3.4.2 Timber
3.4.2.1 Type of wood

Walls, floors and roofs can be constructed of approved structural timber.
See Table C1.
3.4.2.2 Preservatively treated lumber

Only treated timber should be used and shall also be identified.
3.4.2.3 Moisture
The timber should be sound, straight and well seasoned timber with moisture content between
15% and 20%.
3.4.3 Metal
3.4.3.1 Structural steel

Material conforming to one following standard specifications (latest date of issue) is approved for
use under this code.
- Structural steel, ASTM A36 is the all purpose carbon steel used in building construction
- Welded and seamless steel pipe, ASTM A53, grade B
3.4.3.2 Structural shapes

All shapes are published in the ASTM A6 and the principals used are:
-W shapes have essentially parallel flange surfaces. The profile of a W shape of a given
nominal depth and weight.
- HP bearing pile shape have essentially parallel flange surfaces and equal web and flange
thickness.
- S beam and C channel have a slope on their flange surfaces.
- L angles shape with equal and unequal leg.
- Pipe and structural tubing.
3.4.3.3 Bolts
Steel bolts shall conform to one of the following standard specification
- Low carbon steel externally and internally threaded standard fasteners, ASTM A307
- High strength bolts for structural steel joints, ASTM A325
- Quenched and tempered steel bolts and nuts, ASTM A449
100mm Slab on grade Suspended slab
300mm min Crawl space 300mm min
600mm 450
1000mm min
300mm min
Strip footing On pile

Pad footing
Fig B-1 Foundation types

4 Foundations
4.1 General
4.1.1 Load bearing walls and columns
4.1.1.1
All loads bearing walls and columns shall be supported on any of the following reinforced concrete
footings:
a) Pad footing
b) Strip footing
c) On pile
The above reinforced concrete footings are shown in figure B-1 Foundations types.
4.1.1.2
Interior walls shall be supported by thickening the slab under the wall and suitably reinforcing it.
The foundation should be located on a layer of soil or rock with good bearing characteristics. Such
soils include dense sands, marl, other granular materials and stiff clays.
4.1.1.3
The foundation shall be cast not less than 600 mm below ground, its thickness not less than 225
mm and its width not less than 450 mm or a minimum of three times the width of the wall immediately
supported by it (see figures B-2-1a and B-2-1b Arrangement of strip footing)
4.1.1.4
When separate reinforced concrete columns or concrete block columns are used they shall be
supported preferably by square footings not less than 1000 mm per side and 225 mm thick (see figure
B-3 Typical spread footing detail).
4.1.1.5
When the ground is subject to drying (cracks or fissures) the minimum depth above should be
increased under the advice of a professional engineer.
To avoid this increase in depth, the foundation should be protected by surface paving.
4.1.2 Reinforcement
4.1.2.1
For strip footings, the minimum reinforcement shall consist of three 10 mm diameter bars placed
longitudinally and 10 mm diameter bars placed transversely no more than 600 mm between their
centres (see figures B-2-1 and B-2-2).
4.1.2.2
For column footings, the minimum reinforcement shall be 12 mm diameter bars at 150 mm
between centres in both directions forming a mesh (see figure B-3).
4.1.2.3
Bars may be suitably cranked bent or lapped at the ends. Lapped or cranked lengths shall be a
minimum of 40 times the diameter of the bars being joined. Table A-3 gives the minimum lap lengths
for steel reinforcement.
Table B-3 — Minimum lap lengths for steel reinforcement
Bar diameter Minimum lap length

mm mm
6 300
10 400
12 600
16 750
Mesh 150 or one square, whichever is greater

1000
150mm blockwork 150mm blockwork
r.c. tie beam 100mm slab minimum 100mm slab minimum
grade grade
300
75 150mm blockwork 75 if 200mm blockwork

minimum
600mm mini
225 225
75 75
450mm minimum 600mm min

3 times 200mm
Fig B2-1a & 1b Arrangement for strip footing 150mm and 200mm vertical
core blocks
30
75
300 mm
r.c. column
75 75mm minimum
1000 min
600mm minimum
225
75
600mm minimum
12mm rods 150mm crs.
Fig B3 Typical spread footing details

Sloping site Flat site
R.C./ Masonry R.C./ Masonry

Suspended ground floor slab Suspended first floor slab
with crawl space
Shear panel
Masonry
Suspended ground floor slab
with crawl space Masonry Masonry
Suspended first floor slab Ground floor slab suspended
Ground floor slab suspended or on grade
or on grade
Fig B4 1 and 2 level house type

Load bearing blocks Non load bearing blocks
390 390 390
190 190 190
or 152
102
152
Filled with concrete
390
190 190
290 190
152 or 152
102
Clay blocks Clay blocks
390
190
390
152
190
102
203
Concrete blocks Concrete blocks
Fig B5 Load & non load bearing clay or concrete blocks

Ring beam 200mm minimum
First floor
Minimum slab thickness see table B4
Ring beam 200mm minimum
Maximum span see table B4
Ground level
150mm blockwork 150mm blockwork
Crawl space 300 mm minimum
See details figures B14 and/or B 15-1
Fig 17-1 2 level house - Typical cross section masonry blocks

5 Vertical structures
5.1 Concrete and masonry

5.1.1 Masonry Block Walls
5.1.1.1 General
This section outlines the requirements for structural masonry construction using shear panels for
single and two storey structures as configured in figure B-4 1or 2 level house type.
5.1.1.2 Workmanship
Cavities shall be clean and substantially free from mortar droppings. Reinforcement shall be
placed centrally and/or properly spaced from the masonry. Reinforcement shall be adequately lapped
and secured. The procedure for applying concrete as outlined in clause 3.7.5 shall be adhered to.
5.1.1.3 Hollow Masonry Blocks
5.1.1.3.1
Hollow clay block units shall conform to the latest edition of the ASTM C652-95a Hollow Brick
(Hollow Masonry Units Made from Clay or Shale) and/or ASTM C34-96 Structural Clay Load-Bearing
Wall Tile.
Grade 3 clay blocks cannot be considered as structural.
5.1.1.3.2
Load bearing concrete masonry block units shall conform to the latest edition of TTS 16 35 508
Specification for Load Bearing Concrete Blocks.
5.1.1.3.3
Non-load bearing interior walls or partitions may be constructed using blocks with a thickness of
100 mm or less. Concrete masonry block units for such application shall conform to the latest edition
of TTS 16 35 509 Specification for Non-load Bearing Concrete Blocks.
5.1.1.3.4
Figure B-5 shows the various types of load bearing and non-load bearing masonry blocks.
5.1.1.4 Shear Panels
5.1.1.4.1
A shear panel (see figures B-6-1 and B-6-2 Shear panel) is a portion or section of a 150mm
exterior wall that performs the function of resisting lateral earthquake or wind forces.
5.1.1.4.2
Where masonry is used there shall be a shear wall on each exterior wall of every house.
5.1.1.4.3
A shear panel should be 1.8 m in horizontal dimension along the face of the wall and a minimum
of 150 mm in block and wall thickness extending from floor to ring beam, with no openings or
penetrations. If the shear panel must be divided in two part the total of horizontal dimension increase
to 2.4m with a minimum of 1000mm for the smallest part. (See figures B-6-1 & B-6-2)
Figures B-7-1& B-7-2 shows the various configurations and applications of a shear panel, vertical
stiffeners and openings.
Alternative for ventilation integrated to the opening
Shear panel For ventilation blocks
horizontal reinforcement
every second course
Min 400mm
Max 1800mm Max 1800mm
Fig B7-1 Typical external wall arrangement - vertical core blocks

Shear panel For ventilation blocks
horizontal reinforcement
Shear panel of 1800 mm every second course
Min 400mm
Max 1800mm Max 1800mm
Fig B7-2 Typical external wall arrangement - horizontal core blocks

5.1.1.5 Block Laying
5.1.1.5.1
Blocks shall be laid in half bond courses which have been aligned using lines and levels (see
figures B-7-1 & B-7-2).
5.1.1.5.2
Walls at junctions and corners shall be bonded to each other by reinforcement and also
interlocked in half bond. All walls shall be tied to columns or to reinforced corners at every second
course.
5.1.1.5.3
Horizontal and vertical mortar joints shall be a minimum thickness of 12 mm and shall be properly
filled with mortar.
5.1.1.6 Mortar
5.1.1.6.1
Mortar shall be made using, by volume, 1 part of ordinary Portland cement and a maximum of 4
parts of clean sifted sand.
5.1.1.6.2
Mortar shall be mixed by hand or preferably by a machine until the ingredients are thoroughly
mixed (not less than 3 minutes by machine). A minimum amount of water shall be added to the dry
mixture to allow for workability. There shall be no re-mixing of mortar.
5.1.1.6.3
Mortar shall be mixed in appropriate amounts so it is completely used within 1 hour.
5.1.1.7.1 Shear panel

See figures B-6-1 and B-6-2 with vertical and horizontal core blocks.
5.1.1.7.1.1 Vertical reinforcement
5.1.1.7.1.1.1 With vertical core blocks

Shear panels shall be vertically reinforced using 12 mm diameter bars placed a distance of 400
mm between centres in solid grouted cells. A 1.8 m shear panel would then have five 12 mm diameter
bars vertically placed. See figure B-6-1.
5.1.1.7.1.1.2 With horizontal core blocks

Shear panels shall be vertically reinforced using a frame of 2 vertical columns 250mm x 150 mm
minimum with 4 x 12 mm diameter bars placed vertically and 6mm diameter bar stirrup each 150 mm
in solid concrete. See figure B-6-2.
5.1.1.7.1.2
Vertical reinforcement bars shall be adequately lapped and secured to hook dowels anchored both
in the foundation and the ring beam.
5.1.1.7.1.3
Horizontal reinforcement shall be provided using masonry mesh 50 mm 50 mm 3 mm (2 in 2
in 10 G) or an equivalent every two rows. (See figures B-11-1 & B-11-2)
2 dia. 12mm bar
2 dia. 12mm bar
2 dia. 12mm bar Max 1800mm
2 dia. 12mm bar
2 dia. 12mm bar

2 dia. 10mm bar
Ground level
Window Door
Fig B8 Openings and lintels

Part elevation
Vertical reinforcement
In situ concrete
Part plan
Part elevation
In situ concrete
Part plan
Fig B9-1 & 10-1 Typical wall corner & intersection - vertical core blocks
20 0 mm mi n
Part elevation
200 mm min
In situ concrete
Part plan
200 mm min
Part elevation
250 mm min
In situ concrete
Part plan
Fig B9-2 & 10-2 Typical wall corner & intersection - horizontal core blocks
Last Phase
14
Phase "n"
13
12
Acceptable horizontal reinforcement
Horizontal reinforcement 5
every two course
4
Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3
Concrete
6
Concrete
5
Phase 0 dia 12mm x 1 000mm
4 4
Concrete
3 3
40mm
2 2 2
1 1 1
dia 12mm
Foundation
Fig B11-1 Typical wall reinforcement and phasing construction

Horizontal core blocks
Last Phase
Phase 3 Concreting
Phase 2 Vertical reinforcement and formwork
14
Phase "n"
13 Acceptable horizontal reinforcement
Form work 12
1 dia.10mm horizontal
Acceptable horizontal reinforcement
Horizontal reinforcement 6
every
Horizontal two course
reinforcement 5
every two course
4
1 dia.12mm vertical
PhasePhase
1 1 Block laying and horizontal
Phasereinforcement
2 Phase 3
Vertical stiffener locations Concrete
Horizontal reinforcement 1800 1800 6

every two course Concrete
5
Phase 0 dia 12mm x 1 000mm
4 4
Phase 0 Concrete
2 3 3
1
40mm
2 2 2
dia 12mm
1 Foundation 1 1
dia 12mm
Foundation
Fig B11-2 Typical wall reinforcement and phasing construction

Vertical core blocks
5.1.1.8 Openings
5.1.1.8.1
All openings of 600 mm or greater in any direction shall be reinforced both horizontally and
vertically with a minimum of two 10 mm diameter bars. All bars shall extend a distance not less than
600 mm beyond each corner of the opening or otherwise anchored by a 300 mm bend inside the
concrete frame (see figure B-8 Openings and lintels).
5.1.1.8.2
Lintels with a span of 600 mm or less shall be horizontally reinforced with two 10 mm diameter
bars.
5.1.1.8.3
Lintels with a span ranging from 1.2 m to 1.8 m shall be horizontally and vertically reinforced with
two 12 mm bars.
5.1.1.8.4
For large openings refer to clause Lintels
5.1.1.9 Load bearing walls (external and internal)
5.1.1.9.1
Masonry walls other than those described above shall be reinforced as follows: -
Three 10 mm diameter bars placed vertically at corners (see figures B-9-1 & B-1-2).
Four 10 mm diameter bars placed vertically at intersections (see figures B-10-1 & B-10-2).
Two 10 mm diameter bars placed vertically at jambs of doors and windows. (See figure B-8)
For vertical wall reinforcement (stiffener) 12 mm diameter bars shall be used spaced 1.8m apart
(see figures B-11-1 & B-11-2).
Horizontal reinforcement every two rows (see figures B-11-1 & B-11-2).
5.1.1.10 Non-load bearing walls (internal walls)

The recommended minimum reinforcement for non load bearing walls with concrete block
construction (refer to figures B-12-1 & B-12-2) shall be as follows: -
a) One 10 mm diameter bar shall be placed vertically at corners.
b) One 10 mm diameter bar shall be placed vertically at junctions.
c) For vertical wall reinforcement 10 mm bars shall be spaced at a maximum of 2.5 m apart.
5.1.1.11 Concrete in fill
5.1.1.11.1 Vertical core blocks
5.1.1.11.1.1
Load bearing walls shall be filled with 1:2:4 nominal mix (refer to table B 1) into the block cores.
The concrete shall be properly compacted, with concrete being added after every two courses of block
erection (see figure B-11-1).
5.1.1.11.1.2
Non-load bearing walls shall be filled with grout or fine aggregate concrete as the work proceeds
(see figure B-11-1).
5.1.1.11.1.3
Pouring of concrete into vertical block cores shall be stopped 40 mm below the top of the block in
order to form a key at joints (See figure B-11-1).
5.1.1.11.1.4
The wall reinforcement shall be securely anchored in the wall footing and the ring beam.
Horizontal reinforcement shall be embedded in mortar and shall be continuous through intersections
and corners (see figure B-11-1).
Ring beam
2.50m maximum 2.50m maximum
External wall
150mm minimum
Frame Frame
Stifener each 2.50m maximum
Fig B12-1 Internal wall arrangement and reinforcement - Vertical core

Ring beam
2.50m maximum 2.50m maximum
External wall
Frame Frame 150mm minimum
Stifener each 2.50m maximum
Fig B12-2 Internal wall arrangement and reinforcement - Horizontal core

Ring beam - junction reinforcement
2 x 2 dia 12mm/1m angles Dia 6mm stirrup details
150mm
100mm
100mm
Ring beam - corner reinforcement
2 x 3 dia 12mm/1m angles
100mm
4 dia. 12mm bars
300mm
Fig B13 Ring beam reinforcement

5.1.1.11.2 Horizontal core blocks
5.1.1.11.2.1
Vertical stiffeners and columns integrated in the wall shall be filled with 1:2:4 nominal mix (refer to
table B 1) into the form work. The concrete shall be properly poured and compacted after total block
erection in order to insure a good wall interlocking (see figure B-11-2).
5.1.1.11.2.2
The wall reinforcement shall be securely anchored in the wall footing and the ring beam.
Horizontal reinforcement shall be embedded in mortar and shall be continuous through intersections
and corners (see figure B-11-2).
5.1.1.12 Ring beams
5.1.1.12.1
All walls shall be finished at the top by a reinforced concrete ring beam not less than 200 mm in
depth.
5.1.1.12.2
The minimum ring beam reinforcement shall be four 12 mm diameter bars with 6 mm diameter
stirrups placed 300 mm between centres. The beam width shall be a minimum of 150 mm without
plaster (see figure B-13).
5.1.1.12.3
The corners of ring beams shall be reinforced as shown in figure B-13.
5.1.1.13 Isolated Columns

Where columns are required for porches, carports etc., construction shall be as follows: -
a) Minimum dimensions shall be 200 mm 200 mm.
b) Columns shall be formed by form work on four sides or form work on two sides with block work on
the other two.
c) Square columns,
The minimum column reinforcement shall be four 12 mm diameter bars with 6 mm diameter
stirrups placed 150 mm between centres.
d) Round columns,
Round columns with varying cross-section (fancy columns) shall have a minimum section of
200mm diameter and shall be reinforced with six (6) 12mm diameter bars with 6mm diameter round
stirrups placed 150mm between centres.
5.1.1.14 Lintels
5.1.1.14.1
Reinforced concrete lintels shall span all door and window openings and shall extend beyond the
jambs by not less than 150 mm.
5.1.1.14.2
The lintel shall be 200 mm deep for openings not greater than 2.5 m in width.
5.1.1.14.3
The reinforcement of the lintel shall be four 12 mm diameter bars and 6 mm diameter stirrups
placed 200 mm between centres. Reinforcement bars shall be placed in lintels as shown in figure B-8.
5.1.1.15 Chasing
The chasing of walls for the installation of services shall be carefully controlled. Horizontal chases
at any one level shall be restricted to 0.7 m in length and only one side of the wall shall be chased.
Chasing shall be done before the walls are plastered and then filled with concrete. No chasing of
structural members shall be permitted.
5.1.1.16 Services
5.1.1.16.1
Services shall not be carried through shear panels.
5.1.1.16.2
Where services through a structural member other than a shear panel is unavoidable, a sleeve,
preferably metallic, shall be provided during the casting operation. The maximum external diameter of
the sleeve shall be 25 mm. The minimum spacing between sleeves shall be 150 mm.
Section on shear panel
First floor
Beam see table B7
Minimum slab thickness see table B4
Ground level
150mm blockwork see shear panel
Crawl space 300 mm minimum
See details figures B14 and/or B 15-1
Fig 17-2 2 level house Typical cross section columns, beams and shear
panel
5.1.2 Columns, beams and shear panel structure
5.1.2.1 General
This section outlines the requirements for structural columns and beams construction using shear
panels for single and two storey structures as configured in figure A2-1a and A2-1b for 1or 2 level
house type.
5.1.2.2 Shear panels

Ditto "Shear panels" in previous paragraph "Masonry block walls" and "Reinforcement".
5.1.2.3 Columns
Columns construction shall be as follows: -
5.1.2.3.1 Sizes
Minimum dimensions shall be 250 mm 250 mm.
5.1.2.3.2 Form work

Columns shall be formed by form-work on four sides or form-work on two sides with block work on
the other two.
5.1.2.3.3 Reinforcement
a) Square columns,
The minimum column reinforcement shall be four 12mm diameter bars with 6mm diameter stirrups
placed 150 mm between centres.
b) Round columns,
Where round columns are used, or round columns with varying cross-section (fancy columns) shall
have a minimum section of 250mm diameter and shall be reinforced with six (6) 12mm diameter bars
with 6mm diameter round stirrups placed 100mm between centres.
5.1.2.3.4 Concrete
Columns shall be filled with 1:1:1 nominal mix (refer to table B 1).
The concrete shall be properly compacted and poured at one time.
5.1.2.4 Beams
Where beams are used, construction shall be as follows:
5.1.2.4.1 Dimensions
Maximum span 5000mm
Minimum section
See table B-7 (1 to 4)
Total height not less than 1/12 span with 300mm minimum. (See table B7)
Beam # 1
Live Load Beam section Main reinforcement Top steel on bearing Vert. stirrups
Slab
Beam maximum thick.
Width Total height Dia. 1 Number Dia. 2 Number Total Dia. 1 Number Dia. 2 Number Total Dia. Nb vert. Space (mn) Total
span (metres)
Bar/stir. stirrup
(mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) basic bar (mm) min. mm2 (mm) basic bar (mm) min. mm2 (mm) mini maxi
Domestic floor 3.00 250 300 100 12 2 16 2 570 12 2 12 1 317 5 2 50 210 23
1.50 kN/m2 4.00 250 400 125 12 2 16 4 902 12 2 16 2 501 5 4 50 250 27
5.00 350 450 150 12 2 16 7 1,537 12 2 16 4 854 5 4 50 250 33
Office floor 3.00 200 350 100 12 2 16 2 518 12 2 12 1 288 5 2 50 250 20
2.50 kN/m2 4.00 350 400 125 12 2 16 4 1,016 12 2 16 2 565 5 4 50 250 27
5.00 400 500 150 12 2 16 7 1,540 12 2 16 4 856 5 4 50 250 33
Small industrial floor and storage
5 kN/m2 2.50 250 300 100 12 2 12 2 465 12 2 10 1 258 5 2 50 220 19
3.50 300 400 125 12 2 16 3 856 12 2 12 3 476 5 4 50 250 23
4.50 400 500 150 12 2 16 6 1,410 12 2 16 3 783 5 4 50 250 30
Horizontal span
Roof 3.00 250 300 100 12 2 12 3 542 12 2 10 1 301 5 2 50 220 22
1kN/m2 4.00 300 400 125 12 2 16 3 876 12 2 12 3 264 5 4 50 250 27
5.00 350 500 150 12 2 16 6 1,326 12 2 16 3 736 5 4 50 250 33
Beam # 2
Slab
Beam maximum
Width Total height thick. Dia. 1 Number Dia. Number Total Dia. 1 Number Dia. 2 Number Total Dia. Nb vert. Space (mn) Total
span (metres)
Bar/stir. stirrup
Domestic floor 3.00 150 350 100 12 2 10 2 374 12 2 208 5 2 50 250 20
1.50 kN/m2 4.00 200 400 125 12 2 12 4 670 12 2 12 2 372 5 2 50 250 27
5.00 250 500 150 12 2 16 4 976 12 2 16 2 542 5 2 50 250 33
Office floor 3.00 150 350 100 12 2 10 2 394 12 2 219 5 2 50 250 20
2.50 kN/m2 4.00 200 400 125 12 2 12 5 712 12 2 12 2 395 5 2 50 250 27
5.00 250 500 150 12 2 16 4 1,039 12 2 16 2 577 5 4 50 250 33
5 kN/m2 2.50 150 300 100 12 2 12 1 342 12 2 190 5 2 50 220 19
3.50 200 400 125 12 2 16 2 593 12 2 12 1 329 5 2 50 250 23
4.50 250 500 150 12 2 16 4 923 12 2 12 3 513 5 2 50 250 30
Horizontal span
Roof 3.00 150 300 100 12 2 12 2 429 12 2 10 1 238 5 2 50 220 22
1kN/m2 4.00 200 400 125 12 2 12 4 650 12 2 10 2 239 5 2 50 250 27
5.00 250 500 150 12 2 16 4 944 12 2 12 3 524 5 2 50 250 33
Beam # 3
Slab
Beam maximum
span (metres)
Bar/stir. stirrup
Domestic floor 3.00 250 300 100 12 2 12 2 377 12 2 10 2 314 5 2 50 220 22
1.50 kN/m2 4.00 250 400 125 12 2 16 2 601 12 2 12 3 501 5 4 50 250 27
5.00 350 450 150 12 2 16 4 1,025 12 2 16 3 854 5 4 50 250 33
Office floor 3.00 200 350 100 12 2 12 1 343 12 2 10 1 286 5 2 50 250 20
2.50 kN/m2 4.00 350 400 125 12 2 16 3 677 12 2 12 3 565 5 4 50 250 27
5.00 400 500 150 12 2 16 4 1,027 12 2 16 3 856 5 4 50 250 33
5 kN/m2 2.50 250 300 100 12 2 10 1 309 12 2 10 1 257 5 2 50 220 19
3.50 300 400 125 12 2 12 3 568 12 2 12 2 473 5 4 50 250 23
4.50 400 500 150 12 2 16 4 940 12 2 16 3 783 5 4 50 250 30
Horizontal span
Roof 3.00 250 300 100 12 2 10 2 360 12 2 10 1 300 5 2 50 220 22
1kN/m2 4.00 300 400 125 12 2 12 3 581 12 2 12 3 257 5 4 50 250 27
5.00 350 500 150 12 2 16 4 884 12 2 16 3 736 5 4 50 250 33
Beam # 4
Slab
Beam maximum
span (metres)
Bar/stir. stirrup
Domestic floor 3.00 150 350 100 12 2 10 1 250 12 2 208 5 2 50 250 20
1.50 kN/m2 4.00 200 400 125 12 2 12 3 447 12 2 12 2 372 5 2 50 250 27
5.00 250 500 150 12 2 16 3 650 12 2 16 2 542 5 4 50 250 33
Office floor 3.00 150 350 100 12 2 12 1 264 12 2 220 5 2 50 250 20
2.50 kN/m2 4.00 200 400 125 12 2 16 2 477 12 2 12 2 398 5 4 50 250 27
5.00 250 500 150 12 2 16 3 693 12 2 16 2 577 5 4 50 250 33
5 kN/m2 2.50 150 300 100 12 2 223 12 2 186 5 2 50 220 19
Table B7-1 Typical reinforcement for concrete beams - 2 ways slab and MS
steel grade 250
Beam # 1
Slab
Beam maximum
Width Total height thick. Dia. 1 Number Dia. 2 Number Total Dia. 1 Number Dia. 2 Number Total Dia. Nb vert. Space (mn) Total
span (metres)
Bar/stir. stirrup
Domestic floor 3.00 250 300 100 12 2 12 2 337 12 2 187 5 2 50 220 22
1.50 kN/m2 4.00 250 400 125 12 2 12 3 534 12 2 10 2 297 5 4 50 250 27
5.00 350 450 150 12 2 16 4 915 12 2 16 2 508 5 4 50 250 33
Office floor 3.00 250 300 100 12 2 12 2 365 12 2 203 5 2 49 220 22
2.50 kN/m2 4.00 300 350 125 12 2 12 4 677 12 2 12 2 376 5 4 50 250 27
5.00 350 450 150 12 2 16 4 1,000 12 2 16 2 555 5 4 50 250 33
5 kN/m2 2.50 250 300 100 12 2 10 1 276 12 2 153 5 2 50 220 19
3.50 300 350 125 12 2 12 3 580 12 2 12 1 322 5 4 50 250 23
4.50 350 400 150 12 2 16 4 1,033 12 2 16 2 574 5 4 50 250 30
Horizontal span
Roof 3.00 250 300 100 12 2 12 1 323 12 2 179 5 2 50 220 22
1kN/m2 4.00 300 350 125 12 2 12 3 592 12 2 12 1 440 5 4 50 250 27
5.00 350 400 150 12 2 16 4 979 12 2 16 2 544 5 4 50 250 33
Beam # 2
Slab
Beam maximum
span (metres)
Bar/stir. stirrup
Domestic floor 3.00 150 350 100 12 2 219 12 2 122 5 2 50 250 20
1.50 kN/m2 4.00 200 400 125 12 2 12 2 399 12 2 222 5 2 50 250 27
5.00 250 500 150 12 2 12 4 578 12 2 12 1 321 5 2 50 250 33
Office floor 3.00 150 350 100 12 2 231 12 2 128 5 2 50 250 20
2.50 kN/m2 4.00 200 400 125 12 2 12 2 424 12 2 10 1 235 5 2 50 250 27
5.00 250 500 150 12 2 12 4 616 12 2 12 1 342 5 4 50 250 33
5 kN/m2 2.50 150 300 100 12 2 199 12 2 111 5 2 50 220 19
3.50 200 400 125 12 2 10 2 350 12 2 195 5 2 50 250 23
4.50 250 500 150 12 2 12 3 547 12 2 12 1 304 5 2 50 250 30
Horizontal span
Roof 3.00 150 350 100 12 2 213 12 2 119 5 2 50 250 20
1kN/m2 4.00 200 400 125 12 2 12 2 387 12 2 359 5 2 50 250 27
5.00 250 450 150 12 2 12 4 618 12 2 12 1 343 5 2 48 250 34
Beam # 3
Slab
Beam maximum
span (metres)
Bar/stir. stirrup
Domestic floor 3.00 250 300 100 12 2 220 12 2 183 5 2 50 220 22
1.50 kN/m2 4.00 250 400 125 12 2 12 2 356 12 2 12 1 297 5 4 50 250 27
5.00 350 450 150 12 2 12 4 607 12 2 12 3 506 5 4 50 250 33
Office floor 3.00 250 300 100 12 2 10 1 243 12 2 202 5 2 49 220 22
2.50 kN/m2 4.00 300 350 125 12 2 12 2 451 12 2 12 2 376 5 4 50 250 27
5.00 350 450 150 12 2 16 3 667 12 2 12 4 555 5 4 50 250 33
5 kN/m2 2.50 250 300 100 12 2 180 12 2 150 5 2 50 220 19
3.50 300 350 125 12 2 10 2 386 12 2 10 2 321 5 4 50 250 23
4.50 350 400 150 12 2 12 4 685 12 2 12 3 571 5 4 50 250 30
Horizontal span
Roof 3.00 250 300 100 12 2 210 12 2 175 5 2 50 220 22
1kN/m2 4.00 300 350 125 12 2 10 3 393 12 2 12 1 358 5 4 50 250 27
5.00 350 400 150 12 2 12 4 649 12 2 12 3 541 5 4 50 250 33
Beam # 4
Slab
Beam maximum
span (metres)
Bar/stir. stirrup
Domestic floor 3.00 150 350 100 12 2 146 12 2 122 5 2 50 250 20
1.50 kN/m2 4.00 200 400 125 12 2 10 1 265 12 2 221 5 2 50 250 27
5.00 250 500 150 12 2 12 2 386 12 2 12 1 321 5 4 50 250 33
Office floor 3.00 150 350 100 12 2 154 12 2 128 5 2 50 250 20
2.50 kN/m2 4.00 200 400 125 12 2 10 1 282 12 2 10 1 235 5 4 50 250 27
5.00 250 500 150 12 2 12 3 411 12 2 12 1 342 5 4 50 250 33
5 kN/m2 2.50 150 300 100 12 2 133 12 2 111 5 2 50 220 19
Table B7-3 Typical reinforcement for concrete beams - 2 ways slab and HR
steel grade 420
5.1.2.4.2 Form-work
Beams shall be formed by form-work on three sides.

The bottom form-work must be rigid enough to support the weight of the structure, the two other
sides and the rigours. This bottom form support shall remain in place 4weeks minimum.
For horizontal and vertical reinforcement see table B-7 (1 to 4) and Figures B-17 to 21.
5.1.2.4.4 Concrete
Beams shall be filled with 1:1:1 nominal mix (refer to table B 1). The concrete shall be properly
compacted and poured at one time.
5.1.3 Framed structure See next edition

to be published
1 roof load
1 roof load 1 floor load
H = Height
H = Height
Fig C1 Wall height

5.2 Timber
5.2.1 Identification & Grade.
See characteristics in paragraph "Basic Materials/Timber".
5.2.2 Exterior walls.

Exterior walls of wood-frame construction shall be designed and constructed in accordance with
the provisions of this chapter.
5.2.2.1 Stud spacing.

In bearing walls, studs, which are not more than 3m in height shall be, spaced not more than is
specified in the following Table C-10
Table C-10 Maximum stud spacing
Stud size Supporting roof Supporting on floor, Supporting one floor

and ceiling only roof and ceiling only
50 x 100mm 600mm 400mm 600mm
50 x 150mm 600mm 600mm 600mm
75 x 100mm 600mm 600mm 600mm
5.2.2.2 Top plate.

Wood stud walls shall be capped with a double top plate installed to provide overlapping at
comers and intersections with bearing partitions. See figure C-3.
Any joints in top plates shall be offset at least 600 mm
5.2.2.3 Bearing studs.

Where floor or roof framing members is spaced more than 400mm on centre and the bearing
studs below are spaced 600mm on centre, such members shall bear within 120mm of the studs
beneath.
Exterior or bearing wall
Notch greater than 50%
Top plates
1.5mm metal tie

across and to each
side of the notch
Pipe
Fig C2 Top plate framing to accommodate piping

Rafters and ceiling joists
or approved roof truss
Top plate
First storey
Wall stud
See drilling and and Joist may be cut
notching provisions or notched between
these limits
Floor joist
See drilling and and
notching provisions 1/3 span 1/3 span
Bottom plate
Band joist or blocking
Top plate
Joist nailed to stud
Platform framing Bearing wall Balloon framing
Lap joists 75mm Subfloor

minimum
Bottom plate Slab on grade

Joist foundation
Sill plate Crawl space or

basement foundation
Fig C3 Typical wall, floor and roof framing

5.2.2.4 Stud length
Table C-11 Maximum allowable length of wood studs
Height On centre spacing

(m)
600m 400mm 300mm 200mm
Supporting a roof only
>3m 50 x 100mm 50 x 100mm 50 x 100mm 50 x 100mm
3.6m 50 x 150mm 50 x 100mm 50 x 100mm 50 x 100mm
4.2m 50 x 150mm 50 x 150mm 50 x 150mm 50 x 100mm
Supporting one floor and a roof
>4.2m 50 x 150mm 50 x 150mm 50 x 150mm 50 x 150mm
Supporting two floors and a roof
>4.2m 50 x 150mm 50 x 150mm 50 x 150mm 50 x 150mm
5.2.2.5 Bottom (sole) plate.

Studs shall have full bearing on a nominal 40mm or larger plate or sill having a width at least equal
to the width of the studs.
5.2.3 Interior load bearing walls.

Interior load-bearing walls shall be constructed, framed and fire-stopped as specified for exterior
walls.
5.2.4 Interior non-bearing walls.

Interior non-bearing walls shall be permitted to be constructed with
- 50mm by 75mm studs spaced 600 mm on centre or, when not part of a braced wall line,
- 50mm by 100mm flat studs spaced at 400mm on centre.
Interior non-bearing walls shall be capped with at least a single top plate.
5.2.5 Drilling and notching-studs.

Any stud in an exterior wall or bearing partition may be cut or notched to a depth not exceeding 25
percent of its width.
Studs in non bearing partitions may be notched to a depth not to exceed 40 percent of a single
stud width.
Any stud may be bored or drilled, provided that the diameter of the resulting hole is no greater
than 40 percent of the stud width, the edge of the hole is no closer than 20mm to the edge of the stud,
and the hole is not located in the same section as a cut or notch.
5.2.5.1 Drilling and notching of top plate.
When piping or ductwork is placed in or partly in an exterior wall or interior load-bearing wall,
necessitating a cutting of the top plate by more than 50 percent of its width, a galvanised metal tie not
less than 1.37 mm thick (16 gage) and 40mm wide shall be fastened to each plate across and to each
side of the opening with not less than six 16d nails.
5.2.6 Headers.
For header spans see Tables on floor section.
5.2.6.1 Wood structural panel box headers.

Wood structural panel box headers shall be constructed in accordance with following Table C-12
Table C-12 Maximum spans for wood structural panel box header
Header Header House depth in m

construction depth
7.5m 8m 8.5m 9m 9.5m
In mm
Wood 225mm 1.2m 1.2m 0.9m 0.9m -

structural
panel one 450mm 1.5m 1.5m 1.2m 0.9m 0.9m
side
Wood 225mm 2.1m 1.5m 1.5m 1.2m 0.9m

structural
panel both 450mm 2.4m 2.4m 2.1m 2.1m 1.8m
sides
5.2.6.2 Non-bearing walls.

Load-bearing headers are not required in interior or exterior non-bearing walls. A single flat 50mm
by 100mm member may be used as a header in interior or exterior non bearing walls for openings up
to 2.4m in width if the vertical distance to the parallel nailing surface above is not more than 600mm.
For such non bearing headers, no cripples or blocking are required above the header.
5.2.7 Cripple walls.

Foundation cripple walls shall be framed of studs not less in size than the studding above. When
exceeding 1.2m in height, such walls shall be framed of studs having the size required for an
additional story. See figure C4.
5.2.7.1 Bracing.
Cripple walls shall be braced with an amount and type of bracing as required for the wall above
plus an additional 15 percent of braced wall length or a maximum braced wall panel spacing to 5.5m.
Cripple walls with a stud height less than 350mm shall be sheathed on at least one side with a
wood structural panel that is fastened to both the top and bottom plates, or the cripple walls shall be
constructed of solid blocking. Cripple walls shall be supported on continuous foundations.
5.2.8 Wall bracing.
Braced wall panels, exterior walls, and required interior braced wall lines shall be constructed in
accordance with this Section. The braced wall panels in the braced wall lines in each story of the
building shall be constructed of a series of one or more braced wall panels.
5.2.8.1 Braced wall lines.

Braced wall lines shall consist of braced wall panels, which meet the requirements for location,
method and amount of bracing specified in following table.
Braced wall panels which are counted as part of a braced wall line shall be in line, except that
offsets out-of-plane of up to 1200mm shall be permitted between adjacent wall panels, provided that
the total out-to-out offset dimension in any braced wall line is not more than 2400mm Braced wall
panels shall begin no more than 2400mm from each end of a braced wall line.
Single or double Fireblock Stagger joints 100mm
top plate around pipe or use splice plates
Wall sruds
Header- see table
Jack studs or trimmers
Solid blocking
Sub floor Bottom plate
Floor joist
Foundation
Sill plate Cripple wall
Foundation wall studs

Anchor bolts embedded in foundation
Corner and partition posts
25x 100mm diagonal brace

let into studs
Fig C4 Framing details

Table C-13 ADJUSTMENT OF BRACING AMOUNTS FOR INTERIOR BRACED WALL LINES
ACCORDING TO BRACED WALL LINE SPACING
Braced Wall Line Spacing Multiply Bracing Amount by:
Meter Coefficient
4.5m or less 0.6
6m 0.8
7.5m 1.0
9m 1.2
10.5m 1.4
Exterior braced wall lines shall have a braced wall panel located at each end of the braced wall
line.
1. Linear interpolation is permissible.
2. The adjustment is limited to the larger spacing between braced wall lines to either side of an
interior braced wall line.
5.2.8.1.1 Sheathing attachment.

Fastening of braced wall panel sheathing shall be nailed with 8d minimum.
Adhesive attachment of wall sheathing is not permitted.
5.2.8.2 Braced wall panel construction methods.

The construction of braced wall panels shall be in accordance with one of the following methods:
1. Nominal 25mm by 100mm continuous diagonal braces let in to the top and bottom plates and
the intervening studs or approved metal strap devices installed in accordance with the manufacturer's
specifications.
The let-in bracing shall be placed at an angle not more than 60 degrees or less than 45 degrees
from the horizontal.
2. Wood boards of 16mm net minimum thickness applied diagonally on studs spaced a maximum
of 600mm on centre.
3. Wood structural panel sheathing with a thickness not less than 8mm for 400mm stud spacing
and not less than 10mm for 600mm stud spacing.
4. 13mm or 19mm thick structural fibre board sheathing applied vertically on studs spaced a
maximum of 400mm on centre.
5.2.8.3 Length of braced panels.

For methods 2,3 and 4 above, each braced wall panel shall be at least 1200mm in length,
covering a minimum of three stud spaces where studs are spaced 400mm on centre and covering a
minimum of two stud spaces where studs are spaced 600mm on centre.
5.2.8.4 Panel joints.

All vertical joints of panel sheathing shall occur over studs.
Horizontal joints in braced wall panels shall occur over blocking of a minimum of 40mm thickness.
5.2.8.5 Connection
Braced wall panel sole plates shall be fastened to the floor framing and top plates shall be
connected to the framing above.
Sills shall be fastened to the foundation or slab.
Where joists are perpendicular to the braced wall lines above, blocking shall be provided under
and in line with the braced wall panel.
5.2.8.6 Wall anchorage.

Braced wall line sills shall be anchored to concrete or masonry foundations.
Plate washers, a minimum 6mm x 50mm x 50mm in size, shall be provided between the
foundation sill plate and the nut.
5.2.8.7 Interior Braced wall panel

Interior braced wall lines shall be fastened to floor and roof framing.
1. Floor joists parallel to the top plate shall be toe nailed to the top plate with at least 8d nails
spaced a maximum of 150mm on centre.
2. Top plate laps shall be face nailed with at least 8-16d nails on each side of the splice
5.2.9 Structure
See figures. A1-7 and A1-8
a) No timber frame members should be less than 100mm in width.
b)At all corners and intersections, uprights should be not less than 100mmx 100mm or 2 members
of 50mm x 100mm each bolted together. The posts should be fixed to the sills or floor beams by
dowel or metal cleats.
c)Intermediate uprights should be not less than 100mm x 50mm and spaced at not more than
600mm.
d)The corners of all rooms and intersections should be braced with timber members not less than
50mm x 100mm and shall be jointed to the upright in such a manner as to leave the upright whole.
e)The upper sills and wall plates at the outer corners and intersections can be tied with straps at
least 225mm x 225mm x 6mm secured with 4 # 10mm diameter coach screws not less than 65mm
long.
f)Alternatively, bracing may maybe effected by 50mm x 100mm diagonal timber struts in all
corners. It is important to have a tight connection between the wall plates and posts.
(g)The clear height of a wall should not be greater than 3m on the basis of structural calculations
showing that the wall framing as designed is adequately supported and can withstand the horizontal
imposed loads including wind and earthquakes.
5.2.10 Cladding
a)The cladding of all external walls must be of approved weatherproof material. All cladding must
be nailed securely to each framing member.
b)Where plaster is used as the cladding, it should consist of not less than two coats applied to
metal laths which shall be securely fastened to the weather proof backing.
c)The metal laths may consist of expanded metal sheets, "hyrib" or other standard materials. Such
material must be used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
d) The first or scratch coat of plaster shall be not less than 12mm thick and shall be kept moist by
e) Interior walls may be covered by any approved kind of interior partition boards or with plaster as
described above.
Steel haunch
Steel column
Steel beam profiles
Anchors Anchors
Fig D1-1 Steel frame typical

Shear connections
Erection seat
Shear splices
Bolted moment splice
Moment splice at ridge

(Field bolted)
Stiffener if required
Fig D1-3 Beam framing

Shop weld Shop weld
or bolt or bolt
Weld as required
Shim as
required Erection clearance
Erection
pin hole
(optional)
Fig D1-4 Column base plates and connection

5.3 Metal
5.3.1 MS beams and profiles
5.3.1.1 General
For steel framed buildings, two systems are generally used for walls. These are hollow concrete
block walls or metal cladding.
5.3.1.1.1 Masonry walls

a) When concrete walls are used, the information given in Section "Masonry block wall" is
applicable. There are some minor differences concerning the anchoring of the wall reinforcement. The
vertical steel is anchored to the footing in the normal manner and anchored at the top by welding to the
longitudinal beam, or fixed to a concrete beam constructed on top of the walls.
b) The horizontal reinforcement is welded to the web of the columns. If the columns are encased
in concrete the reinforcement can be carried to the face of the steel column.
c) Care must be taken to fix these walls to the steel frames so as to provide lateral continuity to the
walls and to prevent the wall from collapsing either under the shaking from an earthquake or from the
pressures due to hurricane winds.
d) It is however, sometimes necessary to install a flexible joint between the block wall and the
steel column where the walls have not been used to provide lateral stability. In this event the steel
frame must be adequately braced to accommodate the lateral loads without collapse.
5.3.1.1.2 Metal Cladding

a) Where metal cladding is used, Z-purlins are attached to the columns with suitable fixing.
b) The vertical siding, as the sheeting is then called, is attached to the Z-purlins in the normal
manner employed for roofs. Fixings made in the valleys rather than on the crowns would provide
greater hurricane resistance.
c) Care must be taken to prevent leaks.
5.4 Mixed construction

See figure A2-1a for Basic 1 or 2 level house, and A2-1b for Mixed 1 or 2 level house and typical
arrangement.
Details are on Figures B-17 (1 and 2) for typical cross sections.

150mm blockwork
150mm blockwork
r.c. tie beam 0.15mm polythene damp proof course

100mm slab minimum (see tab
100mm slab minimum

Crawl space 300 mm minim
300mm minimum 50mm sand blinding
grade
well compacted gravel or

marl in 100mm layers 200mm blockwork
150mm blockwork
minimum
600mm min 600 mm minimum
450
Fig B14 & B15 Details of ground floor slab on grade and suspended ground
floor slab.
Beam #2 Beam #4 Beam #4 Beam #4 Beam #6 Beam #8 Beam #8 Beam #8
Beam #2 Beam #1 Beam #1 Beam #1 Beam #6
Beam #1 Beam #3 Beam #3 Beam #3 Beam #5 Beam #7 Beam #7
Beam #2 Beam #4 Beam #4 Beam #6 Beam #8 Beam #8
Beam #2 Beam #4 Beam #4 Beam #4 Beam #6 Beam #8 Beam #8 Beam #8
Beam #8
Beam #4 Beam #3 Beam #3 Beam #3
Beam #2 Beam #1 Beam #1 Beam #1

Beam #6
Beam #2 Beam #4 Beam #4

Beam #6 Beam #8 Beam #8
Fig B18 Slabs and beams typical arrangements

6 Floor systems
6.1 Concrete floor slabs

6.1.1 Layout
6.1.1.1 Slab on grade

For slab on grade (see figure B-14) the following shall be observed: -
a) The concrete floor shall be a minimum of 100 mm thick and supported on not less than 200 mm of
compacted hardcore, gravel or approved granular material. It is recommended that the fill material
needed not be more than 900 mm deep and be of well compacted selected material.
b) Where fills greater than 900 mm are required, the floor shall be constructed as a suspended
reinforced concrete slab. This procedure will prevent cracking of the concrete floor slab due to
imperfectly compacted fill.
c) The finished surface of the floor shall be located not less than 300 mm above finished ground
level. On a sloping site, the floor shall be at least 300 mm above the ground at any point at the nearest
point relative to the floor.
6.1.1.2 Damp proof course
6.1.1.2.1
A damp proof course shall be provided to prevent rising water through the floor slab and
load bearing walls.
6.1.1.2.2
Where polythene is used it shall be at least 0.15 mm thick and shall be laid over the
compacted floor foundation. This material shall be used with caution as it easily broken. Laps in the
damp proof membrane shall not be less than 150 mm.
6.1.1.2.3
Alternative damp proof course applications
a) Asphalt
b) Concrete screed
6.1.1.3.1
The floor slab on grade shall be reinforced with welded wire mesh 150 mm 150 mm 3
mm. The mesh shall be located 25 mm from the top of the slab and care shall be taken during pouring
that this location is maintained.
6.1.1.3.2
The mesh shall be tied to the ground beams where such beams are used. Minimum laps in the
mesh shall be 150 mm.
6.1.1.4 Suspended Slab
6.1.1.4.1 Suspended slab

For suspended slab (see figure B-15) the following shall be observed: -
a) The concrete floor slab shall be a minimum of 100 mm thick and conform to table B-4.
b) The maximum span shall conform to table B-4.
c) As a protection against flooding, the finished surface of the floor shall be located no less than 300
mm above ground level. On a sloping site, the floor shall be at least 300 mm above the ground at any
point at the nearest point relative to the floor.
Maximum span Slab thickness Main reinforcement (2 ways) Top center steel Top edge steel
Slab location
Dia. Space Dia. Spacing Dia. Spacing
Live Load (metres) (mm)
(mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) (mm)
Domestic floor 3.00 100 10 150 10 250 10 250
1.50 kN/m2 4.00 125 12 150 12 250 10 250
5.00 150 12 120 12 240 10 250
Office floor 3.00 100 10 150 10 250 10 250

2.50 kN/m2 4.00 125 12 150 12 250 10 250
5.00 150 12 120 12 240 10 250

5 kN/m2 2.50 100 10 120 10 240 10 250
3.50 125 12 120 12 240 10 250
4.50 150 12 100 12 200 10 250
Horizontal span
Roof 3.00 100 10 200 10 250 10 250
1kN/m2 4.00 125 10 150 10 250 10 250
5.00 150 12 150 12 250 10 250
Note: Steel rods are MS rods and Concrete is Grade "C" (see Table B1)
Ratio (Slab Lengh / Slab Width) between 0.8 to 1.25
Slab thickness min 100mm
Top center steel lengh = 2 m min. 2000mm min
Top edge steel lengh = 1.2m min. 200mm 1000mm min
Table B-4 Typical reinforcement for two way slabs

Basic 6mm dia. stirrup
and 4x12mm bar
Additionnal stirrup if 3 bars

to be maintained
Additionnal bar to be maintained
9 rods
7 bars as Table
8 rods
6 bars as Table
7 rods
5 bars as Table
6 rods
4 bars as Table
5 rods
3 bars as Table
4 rods or
2 bars as Table
3 rods
1 bar as Table
2 rods
no bar added as Table
Additionnal bar See table B 7-1 or B 7-2
Fig B19-1 Beam reinforcement - Typical arrangement Mild Steel

Basic 6mm dia. stirrup
and 4x10mm bar
Additionnal stirrup if 3 bars

to be maintained
Additionnal bar to be maintained
7 rods
5 bars as Table
6 rods
4 bars as Table
5 rods
3 bars as Table
4 rods or
2 bars as Table
3 rods
1 bar as Table
2 rods
no bar added as Table
Additionnal bar See table B 7-3 or B 7-4
Fig B19-2 Beam reinforcement - Typical arrangement HR Steel

Total height
Column 250mm min Span
Width Total number stirrups Width
Type of stirrup
min 75mm max. 200mm
minimum lap see table B-3
Main reinforcement
Midle top reinforcement 45°
Assembly rods
Rod details
Fig B20 Concrete beams (Middle & Side)

Fig B21 Beam sections
The minimum requirement for the reinforcement shall conform to table B-4.
6.1.2 Finishing
The slab shall be floated immediately after pouring as this produces a durable surface.
Alternatively, a sand cement screed not less than 20 mm thick may be applied to roughened surface of
the concrete. The surface shall be cleaned and washed before applying the screed. A screed of
proportions of 1 part cement to 4 parts sand (by volume) is acceptable.
6.1.3 Services
All pipes and conduits for services shall be laid and arranged so that the required concrete
cover to the reinforcement is maintained.
NOTE Most structures within the scope of these guidelines would have floor slabs on compacted granular
material; but on sloping sites, floor slabs may have to be suspended. The reinforcement set out above will provide
a safe suspended floor or roof. Professional assistance should be sought on the size and placement of
reinforcement for situations other than those described.
Botom wall plate Subfloor or
floor sheating
Studs
Sill plates
Optional finish floor

Band, rim or header joist
Joists
Wood structural panel

Bridging
Solid blocking
Sill plate
Foundation
Double joist under bearing
partitions
pipe in partition
Fig C5 Floor construction

6.2 Timber
6.2.1 Identification & Grade.
See characteristics in paragraph "Basic Materials/Timber".
6.2.2 General
6.2.2.1 Design and construction.

Floors shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the provisions of this chapter and
figure C5.
6.2.2.2 Allowable joist spans.

Spans for floor joists shall be in accordance with Table C-2
Table C-2 Floor joist span for common lumber species
Joist spacing Dead load = 1kN/m2 and Live load 1.5kN/m2
50x150mm 50x200mm 50x250mm 50x300mm
Maximum floor joist spans in metre
300mm 3.3m 4.2m 5.1m 6m
400mm 3m 3.6m 4.5m 5.2m
500mm 2.6m 3.3m 4m 4.6m
600mm 2.3m 3m 3.6m 4.2m
6.2.2.3 Joists under bearing partitions.

Joists under parallel bearing partitions shall be doubled or a beam of adequate size to support the
load shall be provided. Double joists, which are separated to permit the installation of piping or vents,
shall be full depth solid blocked with lumber not less than 50mm in nominal thickness spaced not more
than 1200mm on centre.
6.2.2.4 Allowable header spans.

The allowable spans of headers shall not exceed the values set forth in Table C-3.
Table C-3 Header spans for exterior bearing walls
Building width in metre
Headers Number and sizes
supporting of header < or = 6m 6m < < 8.5m < < 11m
8.5m
Maximum header span in metre
2 - 50x100mm 1m 0.9m 0.8m
Roof and
ceiling 2 – 50x150mm 1.6m 1.4m 1.2m
2 – 50x200mm 1.9m 1.7m 1.6m
2 - 50x100mm 0.9m 0.8m 0.7m
Roof, ceiling
& 1 centre 2 – 50x150mm 1.3m 1.2m 1.1m
bearing floor 2 – 50x200mm 1.7m 1.5m 1.35m
2 - 50x100mm 0.8m 0.7m 0.6m
Roof, ceiling
& 1 clear span 2 – 50x150mm 1.15m 1.1m 0.9m
floor 2 – 50x200mm 1.5m 1.3m 1.15m
Table C-4 Header spans for interior bearing walls

Building width in metre
Headers and Number and
girders supporting sizes of header < or = 6m < < 8.5m < < 11m
6m 8.5m
Maximum header span in metre
One floor only 2 - 50x100mm 0.95m 0.8m 0.7m
One floor only 2 – 50x150mm 1.35m 1.15m 1.05m
L
L/3 no notches L/3

permited
D
D/6 maxi
D/6 ma xi
Floor joist - center cuts
D/ 4 ma xi
D
D/4 maxi
Floor joist - end cuts

D/3 maxi
maxi D from support

D
Rafter/ceiling joists
50m m min i
D
/3
m
50mm min i
ax
i
Drilling
Fig C6 Joist cutting, notching and drilling

6.2.2.5 Bearing.
The ends of each joist, beam or header shall have not less than 50mm of bearing on wood or
metal and not less than 75mm on masonry or concrete.
6.2.2.5.1 Floor systems.

Joists framing from opposite sides over a bearing support shall lap a minimum of 75 mm and shall
be nailed together. A wood or metal splice with strength equal to or greater than that provided by the
nailed lap is permitted.
6.2.2.5.2 Joist framing.

Joists framing into the side of a wood header shall be supported by approved framing anchors or
on ledger strips not less than nominal 50mm by 50mm.
6.2.2.6 Lateral restraint at supports.

Joists shall be supported laterally at the ends by full-depth solid blocking not less than 50mm
nominal in thickness; or by attachment to a header, band or rim joist, or to an adjoining stud; or shall
be otherwise provided with lateral support to prevent rotation.
6.2.2.6.1 Bridging.
Joists exceeding a nominal 50mm x 150mm shall be supported laterally by solid blocking,
diagonal bridging (wood or metal), or a continuous 25mm by 75mm strip nailed across the bottom of
joists perpendicular to joists at intervals not exceeding 2400mm
6.2.2.7 Drilling and notching.

Structural floor members shall not be cut, bored or notched in excess of the limitations specified in
this section. See Figure C-6.
6.2.2.7.1 Engineered wood products.

Cuts, notches and holes bored in trusses, laminated veneer lumber, glue-laminated members or I-
joists are not permitted unless the effect of such penetrations are specifically considered in the design
of the member.
6.2.2.8 Fastening.
Floor framing shall be nailed or screwed. Where posts and beam or header construction is used to
support floor framing, positive connections shall be provided to ensure against uplift and lateral
displacement.
6.2.2.9 Framing of openings.

Openings in floor framing shall be framed with a header and trimmer joists.
When the header joist span does not exceed 1200mm, the header joist may be a single member
the same size as the floor joist. Single trimmer joists may be used to carry a single header joist that is
located within 900mm of the trimmer joist bearing.
When the header joist span exceeds 1200mm, the trimmer joists and the header joist shall be
doubled and of sufficient cross section to support the floor joists framing into the header. Approved
hangers shall be used for the header joist to trimmer joist connections when the header joist span
exceeds 1800mm.
6.2.2.10 Wood trusses.
6.2.2.10.1 Design.
Wood trusses shall be designed in accordance with approved engineering practice.
The design and manufacture of metal plate connected wood trusses shall comply with ANSI/TPI 1,
National Design Standard for Metal Plate Connected Wood Truss Construction.
6.2.2.10.2 Bracing.
Trusses shall be braced to prevent rotation and provide lateral stability in accordance with the
requirements specified in the construction documents for the building and on the individual truss
design drawings.
6.2.2.10.3 Alterations to trusses.

Truss members and components shall not be cut, notched, spliced or otherwise altered in any way
without the approval of a registered design professional.
Alterations resulting in the addition of load (e.g. HVAC equipment, water heater, water tank etc.),
that exceeds the design load for the truss shall not be permitted without verification that the truss is
capable of supporting the additional loading.
6.2.3 Floor sheathing
6.2.3.1 Lumber sheathing.

Maximum allowable spans for lumber used, as floor sheathing shall conform to the following Table
C-5
Table C-5 Minimum thickness of floor sheathing
Joist or Minimum net thickness

beam spacing in
mm Perpendicular to joist Diagonal to joist
400mm 16mm 16mm
600mm 19mm 19mm
Plywood continuous over two or more spans and face grain perpendicular to supports.
Unsupported edges shall be tongue and grove or blocked.
6.2.3.1.1 End joints.

End joints in lumber used, as flooring shall occur over supports.
6.2.3.2 Wood structural panel sheathing.
6.2.3.2.1 Identification and grade.

Wood structural panel sheathing used for structural purposes shall be identified by a grade mark
of certificate of inspection issued by an approved agency.
6.2.3.2.2 Wood structural panel

Where used, wood structural panels shall be of one of the grades specified in Table C-5
When sanded plywood is used as combination sub-floor underlay, the grade shall be as specified
in Table above.
6.2.3.3 Particleboard.
6.2.3.3.1 Identification and grade.

Particleboard shall conform to ANSI A208.1 and shall be so identified by a grade mark or
certificate of inspection issued by an approved agency.
6.2.3.3.2 Particle board panel.

Where used, particleboard panels shall be of one of the grades specified in Table C-5
6.3 Metal
6.3.1 MS steel beam
MS steel beam structure shall be engineered based on values given by the Design criteria and
other characteristics of this code by recognised professional.
ridge board
hip rafter
jack rafter
m axi m
um se
e ta ble
B -6
facia board
facia board
hip rafter
r.c. ring beam
jack rafter
ridge beam
rafters
Fig B16 Typical hip roof construction

7 Roof assemblies
7.1 Roof structure
7.1.1 Concrete roof structure

Ditto paragraph "Concrete floor slabs".
7.1.2 Timber
7.1.2.1 Layout
7.1.2.1.1
Roofs are generally constructed as one of three common types. These are:
a) hip roofs;
b) gable roofs; or
c) mono roof. (lean-to)
7.1.2.1.2
The gable roof consists of a structural frame made up of a ridge board and (with) rafters.
7.1.2.1.3
The minimum sizes of roof members shall be 25 mm 150 mm for the ridge board and 50 mm 
100 mm for the rafters at 800 mm between centres. The same size rafters shall be used for mono-
pitched (shed) roofs.
7.1.2.1.4
In the case of the hip roof, hip rafters are introduced into the structural frame as shown in
figure B-16.
7.1.2.1.5
The minimum size of the hip rafters shall be 50 mm 150 mm. Table B-5 gives rafter sizes of
main members constructed of pitch pine.
7.1.2.1.6
The use of timber other than pitch pine at the minimum recommended sizes for pitch pine is
acceptable only if it is a stronger timber. Professional advice shall be sought if smaller sizes are used
for stronger timber or if weaker timber is used. (Table specifying for different types of timber).
7.1.2.1.7
The timber roof sheeting is generally constructed using 25 mm 150 mm tongue-and-groove
boarding, 16 mm plywood or other patented boarding.
7.1.2.1.8
Sheeting may be replaced by a secondary frame of 50 mm 50 mm or 50 mm 100 mm battens
fixed to the rafters.
7.1.2.2 Fixings
7.1.2.2.1
The rafters shall be securely fixed to the ring beam at the top of the walls on a wall plate and to the
ridge board at the crown of the roof.
7.1.2.2.2
The use of patented hurricane clips (rafter ties) for fixing rafters to plates; purlins and ridge boards
shall be used.
Dead load = 1.00 kN/m2 Dead load = 1.50 kN/m3
Dead load = 0.50 kN/m2
Semi light roof with suspended ceiling and Roof with ceiling and ordinary clay or cement
Rafter Light roof with galvanized sheeting
Solutions asphalt shingle tiles
spacing
50x100 50x150 50x200 50x250 50x100 50x150 50x200 50x250 50x100 50x150 50x200 50x250
Calculation based on minimum wood stress of 7,500.00 kN/m2

Maximum length of wood 6.00 m minimum calculated span authorised more than 1.50 m
Rough material
Solution 1 minimum live load = 0.60 kN/m2

400mm span 3.40 5.10 2.80 4.20 5.60 2.40 3.70 4.90
600mm span 2.80 4.10 5.50 2.30 3.40 4.60 5.70 2.00 3.00 4.00 5.00
800mm span 2.40 3.60 4.80 2.00 3.00 4.00 4.90 1.70 2.60 3.50 4.30
Solution 2 normal live or climatic load = 1 kN/m2

400mm span 2.90 4.30 5.80 2.50 3.80 5.00 2.20 3.40 4.50 5.60
600mm span 2.40 3.50 4.70 5.90 2.00 3.10 4.10 5.10 1.80 2.70 3.70 4.60
800mm span 2.00 3.10 4.10 5.10 1.80 2.70 3.50 4.40 1.60 2.40 3.20 4.00
Solution 3 climatic load = 1.5 kN/m2

400mm span 2.50 3.80 5.00 2.20 3.40 4.50 5.60 2.00 3.10 4.10 5.10
600mm span 2.00 3.10 4.10 5.10 1.80 2.70 3.70 4.60 1.70 2.50 3.30 4.20
800mm span 1.80 2.70 3.50 4.40 1.60 2.40 3.20 4.00 2.20 2.90 3.60
Dressed material loss of 12mm in all direction in rough sizing of the material
exact sizes 38x88 38x138 38x188 38x238 38x88 38x138 38x188 38x238 38x88 38x138 38x188 38x238

400mm span 2.60 4.10 5.50 2.10 3.40 4.60 5.80 1.90 2.90 4.00 5.10
600mm span 2.10 3.30 4.50 5.70 1.80 2.70 3.70 4.70 1.50 2.40 3.30 4.10
800mm span 1.80 2.90 3.90 4.90 1.50 2.40 3.20 4.10 2.10 2.80 3.60
Solution 12 live or climatic load = 1.00 kN/m2

400mm span 2.20 3.50 4.70 6.00 1.90 3.00 4.10 5.20 1.70 2.70 3.70 4.60
600mm span 1.80 2.80 3.90 4.90 1.60 2.50 3.30 4.20 2.20 3.00 3.80
800mm span 1.60 2.50 3.30 4.20 2.10 2.90 3.70 1.90 2.60 3.30
Solution 13 climatic load = 1.50 kN/m2

400mm span 1.90 3.00 4.10 5.20 1.70 2.70 3.70 4.60 1.60 2.50 3.30 4.20
600mm span 1.60 2.50 3.30 4.20 1.40 2.20 3.00 3.80 2.00 2.70 3.50
800mm span 2.10 2.90 3.70 1.90 2.60 3.30 1.70 2.40 3.00
How to use the table

a) choose the coloumns with the type of roof (dead load)
b) choose the lignes with the type of exposure (climatic load) and type of wood (rough or dressed)
c) with the span required choose the righ solution (rafter spacing and size)
rafter spacing in the left coloumn
size on top of the table
Table C5 Maximum roof span for rafter

Dead load = 0.50 kN/m2 Dead load = 1.00 kN/m2 Dead load = 1.50 kN/m3
Rafter or
Light roof with galvanized sheeting Semi light roof with suspended ceiling and asphalt shingle Roof with ceiling and ordinary clay or cement tiles
truss Solutions
spacing
100x25 50x50 100x50 50x100 50x150 100X150 50x25 100x25 50x50 100x50 50x100 50x150 100X150 50x25 100x25 50x50 100x50 50x100 50x150
Calculation based on minimum wood stress of 7,500.00 kN/m2

Maximum span of wood 30 times wood height (to prevent flexion)
750 1500 1500 3000 4500 4500 750 750 1500 1500 3000 4500 4500 750 750 1500 1500 3000 4500
Rough material
Maximum space for Maximum space for Maximum space for
Maximum space for purlins Maximum space for battens Maximum space for battens
battens purlins purlins
400mm batten space 1.20
600mm batten space 0.50 1.10 0.40 0.80
800mm batten space 0.90 1.80 0.30 0.60 1.20 0.20 0.50 0.90
1000mm batten space 0.60 1.10 0.80 1.60 0.60 1.20
1250mm batten space 0.40 0.70 1.50 0.50 1.00 2.00 0.40 0.80 1.50
1500mm batten space 0.50 1.00 0.30 0.70 1.40 0.30 0.50 1.10 2.40
1800mm batten space 1.40 3.20 1.00 2.20 4.30 0.70 1.70
2000mm batten space 1.10 2.60 5.10 0.80 1.80 3.50 0.60 1.30
2500mm batten space 0.70 1.60 3.30 1.10 2.30 0.90
3000mm batten space 1.10 2.30 0.80 1.60 0.60
4000mm batten space 0.60 1.30 0.90
Solution 2 normal live or climatic load = 1 kN/m2

400mm batten space 1.00
600mm batten space 1.20 0.40 0.90 0.30 0.70
800mm batten space 0.70 1.30 0.20 0.50 1.00 0.20 0.40 0.80
1000mm batten space 0.80 1.70 0.60 1.30 0.50 1.00
1250mm batten space 0.50 1.10 2.10 0.40 0.80 1.60 0.30 0.60 1.30
1500mm batten space 0.40 0.70 1.50 0.30 0.60 1.10 2.50 0.40 0.90 2.00
1800mm batten space 1.00 2.30 0.80 1.70 3.50 0.60 1.40
2000mm batten space 0.80 1.90 3.80 0.60 1.40 2.80 1.10
2500mm batten space 1.20 2.40 0.90 1.80 0.70
3000mm batten space 0.80 1.70 0.60 1.30
4000mm batten space 0.90 0.70
Solution 3 exposed climatic load = 1.5 kN/m2

400mm batten space 2.00 0.80 0.70 1.30
600mm batten space 0.90 1.70 0.30 0.70 0.30 0.60 1.20
800mm batten space 0.50 1.00 0.20 0.40 0.80 0.30 0.70 1.30 2.60
1000mm batten space 0.60 1.30 0.50 1.00 0.40 0.80 1.70
1250mm batten space 0.40 0.80 1.60 0.30 0.60 1.30 0.30 0.50 1.10 2.40
1500mm batten space 0.30 0.60 1.10 2.50 0.40 0.90 2.00 4.00 0.40 0.70 1.70
1800mm batten space 0.80 1.70 3.50 1.40 2.80 0.50 1.20
2000mm batten space 1.40 2.80 1.10 2.30 0.90
2500mm batten space 0.90 1.80 1.40
3000mm batten space 1.30 1.00
How to use the table

a) choose the columns with the type of roof (dead load)
b) choose the paragraph with the type of exposure (climatic load) and type of space between rafters or trusses
c) with the span required choose the righ solution (batten spacing and sizes)
Table C6 Maximum roof span for battens and joist

7.1.2.2.3
Plywood decking shall be fastened to the purlins or rafters at a spacing of not less than 600 mm.
7.1.2.2.4
Where timber boards are used as decking, the timber shall be secured at each purlin by at least
two galvanised head clout nails at least 40 mm long.
Solution 2 Solution 3 Solution 4
Metal sheet less than 0.50mm Asphalt shingle Clay or concrete tile
thickness (26G, 28G and more)
Underlay
Decking (plywood or closeboard) 16mm thickness Decking (plywood or closeboard) 20mm thickness
Solution 1
Metal sheet more than {steel 0.50mm (24G) &
aluminium 0.60mm thickness}
c ing
spa
OK
Sag steel rod
Z purlin orientation
Exception for the orientation
Fixation type 1 Fixation type 2

(slope <15° & span <2m) (slope >15° and/or span >2m)
Fig D1-2 Z purlin details

Solution 2 Solution 3 Solution 4
Metal sheet less than 0.50mm Asphalt shingle Clay or concrete tile
thickness (26G, 28G and more)
Underlay
Decking (plywood or closeboard) 16mm thickness Decking (plywood or closeboard) 20mm thickness
Solution 1
Metal sheet more than {steel 0.50mm (24G) &
aluminium 0.60mm thickness}
Fixation type 2
Type ridge
Rafter
Spacing 400mm or 600mm or 800mm

Fixation type 1
On ring beam
Fig D1-6 Z or C steel profile used as rafter

Beam type 1 Wall or concrete beam
Beam section
Slope in °
Horizontal beam span
Cantilever
3 d minimum
2 H profil e
rofi
le Typical assembly for
beam more than 150mm
Hp
Beam type 2
Slope in °
Horizontal beam span
Cantilever Wall or concrete beam
Typical combinations
Fig D1-3 Beam framing

Beam type 1
Base on design criteria of Trinidad
Weight Solution 1 Solution 2 Solution 3 Solution 4
& Tobago Building Code
in kg/m
Galvanized >0.5mm Galvanized <0.5mm Asphalt shingle Concrete or clay tile
Frame spacing in meter 3.00 3.60 4.20 3.00 3.60 4.20 3.00 3.60 4.20 3.00 3.60 4.20
Horizontal beam span in meter 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60 3.60
S 3x5.7 (75mm x 60mm) 8.48 Yes

S 4x7.7 (102mm x 68mm) 11.45 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
S 5x10 (127mm x 76mm) 14.87 Yes Yes Yes Yes
W 4x13 (106mm x 103mm) 19.33 Yes Yes
W 6x12 (153mm x 102mm) 17.85
W 8x13 (204mm x 102mm) 19.33
S 3x5.7 (75mm x 60mm) 8.48

S 4x7.7 (102mm x 68mm) 11.45 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
S 5x10 (127mm x 76mm) 14.87 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
W 4x13 (106mm x 103mm) 19.33 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
W 6x12 (153mm x 102mm) 17.85 Yes Yes
W 8x13 (204mm x 102mm) 19.33
S 3x5.7 (75mm x 60mm) 8.48

S 4x7.7 (102mm x 68mm) 11.45 Yes
S 5x10 (127mm x 76mm) 14.87 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
W 4x13 (106mm x 103mm) 19.33 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
W 8x13 (204mm x 102mm) 19.33 Yes Yes
S 3x5.7 (75mm x 60mm) 8.48

S 4x7.7 (102mm x 68mm) 11.45
S 5x10 (127mm x 76mm) 14.87 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
W 6x12 (153mm x 102mm) 17.85 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
W 8x13 (204mm x 102mm) 19.33 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
S 3x5.7 (75mm x 60mm) 8.48

S 4x7.7 (102mm x 68mm) 11.45
S 5x10 (127mm x 76mm) 14.87 Yes Yes
W 4x13 (106mm x 103mm) 19.33 Yes Yes Yes
W 8x13 (204mm x 102mm) 19.33 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Note: Maximum strengh limited to 175 N/mm2

Acceptable solution for profile Yes
Table D2 MS beam type 1

Beam type 2
Base on design criteria of Trinidad
Weight Solution 1 Solution 2 Solution 3 Solution 4
& Tobago Building Code
in kg/m
Frame spacing in meter 3.00 3.60 4.20 3.00 3.60 4.20 3.00 3.60 4.20 3.00 3.60 4.20
S 4x7.7 (102mm x 68mm) 11.45 Yes

S 5x10 (127mm x 76mm) 14.87 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
W 6x12 (153mm x 102mm) 17.85 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
W 8x13 (204mm x 102mm) 19.33 Yes Yes
W10x15 (254mm x 102mm) 22.31
S 5x10 (127mm x 76mm) 14.87 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
W 8x13 (204mm x 102mm) 19.33 Yes Yes Yes Yes
W10x15 (254mm x 102mm) 22.31 Yes
S 5x10 (127mm x 76mm) 14.87 Yes Yes

W10x15 (254mm x 102mm) 22.31 Yes Yes Yes
W 4x13 (106mm x 103mm) 19.33 Yes

W10x15 (254mm x 102mm) 22.31 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
W 4x13 (106mm x 103mm) 19.33

W10x15 (254mm x 102mm) 22.31 Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
W 4x13 (106mm x 103mm) 19.33

W 6x12 (153mm x 102mm) 17.85 Yes
W 8x13 (204mm x 102mm) 19.33 Yes Yes Yes Yes
W 4x13 (106mm x 103mm) 19.33

W 6x12 (153mm x 102mm) 17.85
Note: Maximum strengh limited to 175 N/mm2 for limitation of deflection to 1/240
Acceptable solution for profile Yes
Table D3 MS beam type 2

7.1.3 Metal
7.1.3.1 MS steel beam
7.1.3.1.1 Roof structure

See figure D1-5 for details and combinations
See tables D-2 MS beam type 1 and D-3 MS beam type 2 for recommended sections.
7.1.3.2 Cold formed steel

Cold formed steel is composed of galvanised steel sheet 1mm to 1.5mm thickness for C, U and Z
sections roll formed profiles.
7.1.3.2.1 Roof structure

Cold formed steel shall be used for purling and rafter as shown in figure D1-2 and D1-6
See tables D-1 Z purlins and D-4 Z or C rafters for recommended sections.
Metal steel Z purlins
Base on design criteria of Trinidad &
Tobago Building Code Sol 1 Sol 2 Sol 3 Sol 4
Maximum calculated span for slope

100 mm Z purlin - 1.5mm thickness between 0 and 15°
Spacing (m)
0.600 3.80 4.00 3.90 3.40
0.800 3.20 3.40 3.40 2.90
1.000 2.90 3.10 3.00 2.60
1.200 2.70 2.80 2.80
between 15 and 30°
Spacing (m)
0.600 3.30 3.50 3.40 3.00
0.800 2.90 3.00 3.00 2.60
1.000 2.60 2.70 2.70
1.200 2.50
between 30 and 45°
Spacing (m)
0.600 3.10 3.30 3.20 2.80
0.800 2.70 2.80 2.80
1.000 2.50 2.50
1.200

150mm Z purlin - 1.5mm thickness between 0 and 15°
Spacing (m)
0.600 4.60 4.80 4.80 4.10
0.800 4.00 4.20 4.10 3.60
1.000 3.50 3.80 3.70 3.20
1.200 3.20 3.40 3.40 2.90
between 15 and 30°
Spacing (m)
0.600 3.90 4.10 4.10 3.50
0.800 3.40 3.60 3.50 3.10
1.000 3.00 3.20 3.10 2.70
1.200 2.80 2.90 2.90 2.50
between 30 and 45°
Spacing (m)
0.600 3.60 3.80 3.70 3.20
0.800 3.10 3.30 3.20 2.80
1.000 2.80 2.90 2.90 2.50
1.200 2.50 2.70 2.60

175mm Z purlin - 1.5mm thickness between 0 and 15°
Spacing (m)
0.600 4.90 5.20 5.10 4.50
0.800 4.30 4.50 4.40 3.90
1.000 3.80 4.00 4.00 3.50
1.200 3.50 3.70 3.60 3.20
between 15 and 30°
Spacing (m)
0.600 4.20 4.40 4.30 3.80
0.800 3.60 3.80 3.70 3.30
1.000 3.20 3.40 3.30 2.90
1.200 2.90 3.10 3.10 2.70
between 30 and 45°
Spacing (m)
0.600 3.80 4.00 3.90 3.40
0.800 3.30 3.50 3.40 2.90
1.000 2.90 3.10 3.00 2.60
1.200 2.70 2.80 2.80
Note : On site limit span to 4.80 m
Table D1 Z purlins
Metal steel Z or C rafters
Base on design criteria of Trinidad & Tobago
Building Code Sol 1 Sol 2 Sol 3 Sol 4
Maximum calculated horizontal span for slope

100 mm Z or C rafter - 1.5mm thickness between 15 and 30°
Spacing (m)
0.400 4.20 4.40 4.40 3.80
0.600 3.40 3.60 3.60 3.10
0.800 2.90 3.10 3.10 2.70
between 30 and 45°

Spacing (m)
0.400 3.40 3.60 3.60 3.10
0.600 2.80 2.90 2.90 2.60
0.800 2.40 2.50 2.50 2.20
between 45 and 60°

Spacing (m)
0.400 2.40 2.50 2.50 2.20
0.600 2.10 2.10
0.800

150mm Z or C rafter - 1.5mm thickness between 15 and 30°
Spacing (m)
0.400 5.50 5.70 6.10 5.30
0.600 4.50 4.70 5.00 4.40
0.800 3.90 4.10 4.30 3.80
between 30 and 45°

Spacing (m)
0.400 4.40 4.60 5.00 4.80
0.600 3.60 3.80 4.10 3.90
0.800 3.10 3.30 3.50 3.40
between 45 and 60°

Spacing (m)
0.400 3.10 3.20 3.40 3.70
0.600 2.50 2.60 2.70 3.00
0.800 2.20 2.30 2.40 2.60

175mm Z or C rafter - 1.5mm thickness between 15 and 30°
Spacing (m)
0.400 6.10 6.40 6.80 5.90
0.600 5.00 5.20 5.60 4.90
0.800 4.30 4.50 4.80 4.20
between 30 and 45°

Spacing (m)
0.400 4.90 5.10 5.50 5.40
0.600 4.00 4.20 4.50 4.40
0.800 3.50 3.60 3.90 3.80
between 45 and 60°

Spacing (m)
0.400 3.50 3.60 3.70 4.10
0.600 2.80 2.90 3.10 3.40
0.800 2.50 2.50 2.70 2.90
Note : On site limit span less than 35 profile height
Table D4 Z or C rafters
7.2 Roof covering
7.2.1 Weather protection
7.2.1.1 General
7.2.1.1.1
Roof decks shall be covered with approved roof coverings secured to the building or structure in
accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
7.2.1.1.2
Roof coverings shall be designed and installed in accordance with this code and the approved
manufacturer's installation instructions such that the roof covering shall service to protect the building
or structure.
7.2.1.2 Flashing.
Flashiness shall be installed in such a manner as to prevent moisture entering the wall through the
joints in the coping, through moisture permeable material, at intersections with the roof plane or at
parapet wall penetrations.
7.2.1.2.1 Locations.
Flashiness shall be installed at wall and roof intersections; wherever there is a change in roof
slope or direction; and around roof openings. Where flashing is of metal, the metal shall be corrosion-
resistant with a thickness of not be less than 0.50mm.
7.2.1.3 Coping.
Parapet walls shall be properly coped with non-combustible, weatherproof materials of a width no
less than the thickness of the parapet wall.
7.2.1.4 Roof drainage.

Unless roofs are sloped to drain over roof edges, roof drains shall be installed at each low point of
the roof. Where required for roof drainage, scuppers shall be placed level with the roof surface in a
wall or parapet. The scupper shall be located as determined by the roof slope and contributing roof
area.
7.2.1.5 Overflow drains and scuppers.

Where roof drains are required, overflow drains having the same size as the roof drains shall be
installed with the inlet flow line located 50mm above the low point of the roof, or overflow scuppers
having three times the size of the roof drains and having a minimum opening height of 100mm may be
installed in the adjacent parapet walls with the inlet flow located 50mm above the low point of the
adjacent roof.
Overflow drains shall discharge to an approved location and shall not be connected to roof drain
lines.
7.2.2 Materials
7.2.2.1 Scope.
The requirements set forth in this section shall apply to the application of roof covering materials
specified herein.
Roof coverings shall be applied in accordance with this chapter and the manufacturer's installation
instructions.
Installation of roof coverings shall comply with the applicable provisions of this
7.2.2.2 Compatibility of materials.

Roofs and roof coverings shall be of materials that are compatible with each other and with the
building or structure to which the materials are applied.
7.2.2.3 Material specifications and physical characteristics.

Roof covering materials shall conform to the applicable standards listed in this chapter. In the
absence of applicable standards or where materials are of questionable suitability, testing by an
approved testing agency shall be required by the code official to determine the character, quality and
limitations of application of the materials.
7.2.2.4 Product identification.

Roof covering materials shall be delivered in packages bearing the manufacturer's identifying
marks and approved testing agency labels when required. The manufacturer shall accompany with
the same information issued in the form of a certificate or on a bill of lading bulk shipments of
materials.
7.2.2.5 Roof covering application.

Roof coverings shall be applied in accordance with the applicable provisions of this section and
the manufacturer's installation instructions.
7.2.3 Requirements for material roof covering
7.2.3.1 Metal sheeting
7.2.3.1.1 Steel sheeting

Where the cladding is protected steel sheeting its thickness shall not be less than
0.625 mm (24G) when timber battens or purlins shall be used as supporting members with
span no more than 1200mm.
0.475 mm (26G) when close board or 16mm plywood sheathing shall be used as support.
7.2.3.1.2 Aluminium sheeting

Aluminium sheeting is not recommended unless 0.60mm (22G) sheeting is available and
unless the fixings supplied have been tested to withstand hurricane force winds.
7.2.3.1.3 Fastening systems

Protected steel sheeting shall be fastened to battens, purlins or decking using galvanised
head twisted shank nails that are at least 65 mm long or galvanised screws that are at least 50mm
long.
Where corrugated sheeting is used, the nails or screws shall be driven through the crown of the
corrugation.
The minimum fastening density of nails or screws shall be as follow
Centre of the roof minimum of 3 fixings per square meter with edge fixation of the sheet.
Roof edges eaves and ridges almost one fixing every 250mm maximum.
7.2.3.2 Metal roof panels

The installation of metal roof panels shall comply with the provisions of this section.
7.2.3.2.1 Deck requirements.

Metal roof panel roof coverings shall be applied to a solid or spaced sheathing, except where the
roof covering is specifically designed to be applied to spaced supports.
7.2.3.2.2 Slope.
The minimum slope for lapped, non-soldered seam metal roofs shall be 25% (14°).
The minimum slope for standing seam roof systems shall be 2.5%.(1/40)
7.2.3.2.3 Material standards.

Metal-sheet roof covering systems that incorporate supporting structural members shall be
designed in accordance with the code.
Metal-sheet roof coverings installed over structural decking shall comply with table.
Metal roof coverings standards and installation

Roof covering type Standard application Rate / thickness
Galvanised steel TTS 16 35 511: 1988 0.63mm thick minimum
Pre-painted steel ASTM A755
Aluminium Zinc Alloy Coated TTS 16 35 511: 1988
Steel
Lead-coated copper ASTM B101
2
Copper 4.9 kg/m
2
Hard lead 9.8 kg/m
2
Soft lead 14.6 kg/m
Aluminium 0.60mm minimum thickness
7.2.3.2.4 Attachment.
Metal roofing shall be installed in accordance with this chapter and the manufacturer's installation
instructions. Approved fasteners shall attach metal roofing fastened directly to steel framing. The
following fasteners shall be used:
1. Galvanised fasteners shall be used for galvanised roofs.
2. Hard copper or copper allow shall be used for copper roofs.
3. Stainless steel fasteners are acceptable for metal roofs.
7.2.3.3 Asphalt singles
The installation of asphalt shingles shall comply with the provisions of this section.

Asphalt shingles shall be fastened to solidly sheathed decks.
7.2.3.3.2 Slope.
Asphalt shingles shall only be used on roof slopes of 17% (10°) or greater.
7.2.3.3.3 Underlay.
For roof slopes from 17% (10°), up to 35% (20°), underlay shall be two layers applied in the
following manner.
Apply a 480mm strip of underlay felt parallel with and starting at the eaves, fastened sufficiently to
hold in place. Starting at the eaves, apply 900mm wide sheets of underlay overlapping successive
sheets 480mm and fastened sufficiently to hold in place.
For roof slopes of 35% (20°) or greater, underlay shall be one layer applied in the following
manner.
Underlay shall be applied shingle fashion, parallel to and starting from the Eva and lapped 50mm
fastened sufficiently to hold in place.
End laps shall be offset by 1.80m.
Underlay applied in areas subject to high winds (greater than 145km/hr) shall be applied with
corrosion-resistant nails in accordance with manufacturer's installation instructions.
Fasteners are to be applied along the overlap not farther apart than 900mm on centre.
7.2.3.3.4 Material standards

Unless otherwise noted, required underlay shall conform to ASTM D226, Type 1, or ASTM D
4869, Type 1.
Asphalt shingles shall have self-seal strips or be interlocking, and comply with ASTM D225 or
D3462.
7.2.3.3.5 Fasteners.
Asphalt shingles shall be fixed to the decking using the proper adhesives in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions. (Galvanised extra large head clout nails may also be used for fastening
asphalt shingles
Corrosion resistant nails minimum 3.5mm, 10mm head, or approved corrosion-resistant staples,
minimum 2mm x 24mm crown width.
Fasteners shall be long enough to penetrate into the sheathing 20mm or through the thickness of
the sheathing, wherever is less.
Asphalt shingles shall have the type and minimum number of fasteners required by the
manufacturer. For normal application, asphalt shingles shall be secured to the roof with not less than
four fasteners per strip shingle or two fasteners per individual shingle.
Where the roof slope exceeds 166% (60°), special methods of fastening is required.
7.2.3.3.6 Flashing.
Flashing for asphalt shingles shall comply with this section.
7.2.3.3.6.1 Base and cap flashing.

Base and cap flashing shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer's installation instructions.
Base flashing shall be of either corrosion-resistant metal of minimum nominal 0.50mm thickness
or mineral surface roll roofing weighing a minimum of 3.75kg/m2.
Cap flashing shall be corrosion resistant metal of minimum nominal 0.50mm thickness.
7.2.3.3.6.2 Valleys.
Valley linings shall be installed in accordance with manufacturer's installation instructions before
applying shingles.
Valley linings of the following types shall be permitted.
1. For open valley (valley lining exposed) lined with metal, the valley lining shall be at least 600mm
wide and of any of the corrosion-resistant metals.
2. For open valleys, valley lining of two plies of mineral surface roll roofing, complying with ASTM
D249, shall be permitted. The bottom layer shall be 450mm and the top layers a minimum of 900mm
wide.
3. For closed valleys (valley covered with shingles), valley lining of one ply of smooth roll roofing
complying with ASTM D 224 Type II or Type III and at least 900mm wide or valley lining as described
in paragraphs 1 and 2 above shall be permitted.
Speciality underlay complying with ASTM D 1970 may be used in lieu of the lining material.
Valley lining material

Material Minimum thickness Weight/m2
Copper 5 kg/m2
Aluminium 0.60 mm
Stainless steel 0.40 mm
Galvanised steel 0.63 mm
Zinc alloy 0.70 mm
Lead 12 kg/m2
7.2.3.3.7 Crickets and saddles.

A cricket or saddle shall be installed on the ridge side of any chimney greater than 750mm wide.
Cricket or saddle coverings, shall be sheet metal or of same material as roof covering.
7.2.3.4 Metal roof shingles

The installation of metal roof shingles shall comply with the provisions of this section.

Metal roof shingles shall be applied to a solid or closely fitted deck, except where the roof covering
is specifically designed to be applied to spaced sheathing.
7.2.3.4.2 Deck slope.

Metal roof shingles shall not be installed on roof slopes below 17% (10°).
7.2.3.4.3 Underlay. .
Not required

Metal roof shingle roof coverings of galvanised steel shall be 0.40mm minimum thickness.
Metal roof shingle roof coverings of aluminium shall be of 0.60mm minimum thickness.
7.2.3.4.5 Application.
Metal roof shingles shall be secured to the roof in accordance with this chapter and the approved
manufacturer's installation instructions.
7.2.3.4.6 Flashing.
The roof valley flashing shall be provided of not less than 0.40mm corrosion-resistant metal, which
shall extend at least 200mm from the centre line each way and shall have a splash diverter rib not less
than 20mm high at the flow line formed as part of the flashing.
Sections of flashing shall have an end lap of not less than 100mm.
The metal valley flashing shall have a 900mm wide underlay directly under it consisting of one
layer of underlay running the full length of the valley, in addition to underlay required for metal roof
shingles.
7.2.3.5 Slate shingles
The installation of slate shingles shall comply with the provisions of this section.

Slate shingles shall be fastened to solidly sheathed roofs.

Slate shingles shall only be used on slopes of 50% (26°) or greater.
7.2.3.5.3 Underlay.
Not required

Slate shingles shall comply with ASTM C406.
Minimum head-lap for slate shingles shall be in accordance with the following table.
Slate shingles shall be secured to the roof with two fasteners per slate. Slate shingles shall be
installed in accordance with this chapter and the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Slate single head-lap
Slope Head-lap
50% (26°) < slope < 70% (35°) 100mm
70% (35°) < slope < 166% (60°) 75 mm
Slope < 166% (60°) 50 mm
7.2.3.5.6 Flashing.
Flashing and counter-flashing shall be made with sheet metal. Valley flashing minimum of 400mm
wide. Valley and flashing metal shall be a minimum uncoated thickness of 0.50mm zinc coated.
Chimneys, stucco or brick walls shall have a minimum of two plies of felt for a cap flashing
consisting of 100mm wide strip of felt set in plastic cement and extending 25mm above the first felt
and a top coating of plastic cement. The felt shall extend over the base flashing 50mm.
7.2.3.6 Clay and concrete tile.
The installation of clay and concrete shall comply with the provisions of this section.

Concrete and clay tile shall be installed only over solid sheathing or spaced structural sheathing
boards.

Clay and concrete roof tile shall be installed on roof slopes of 25% or greater. For roof slope 25%
to 35%, double underlay application is required.
7.2.3.6.3 Underlay.
Unless otherwise noted, required underlay shall conform with: ASTM D226, Type 11; ASTM
D2626, Type I; or ASTM D249 mineral surfaced roll roofing.
7.2.3.6.3.1 Low slope roofs.

For roof slopes from 25% (15°), up to 35% (20°), underlay shall be a minimum of two layers
underlay applies as follows:
I. Apply a 450mm strip of underlay felt parallel with and starting at the eaves fastened sufficiently
in place. End laps shall be offset by 1.80m.
2. Starting at the Eaves, apply 900mm wide sheets of underlay felt overlapping successive sheets
450mm and fastened sufficiently in place.
7.2.3.6.3.2 High slope roofs.

For roof slopes of 35% (20°), or greater, underlay shall be a minimum of one layer of underlay felt
applied shingle fashion, parallel to, and starting from the eaves and lapped 50mm, fastened sufficiently
in place.
7.2.3.6.3.3 Underlay and high wind.

Underlay applied in areas subject to high wind (greater than 145 km/h) shall be applied with
corrosion-resistant nails in accordance with manufacturer's installation instructions. Fasteners are to
be applied along the overlap not farther apart then 900mm on centre.
7.2.3.6.4 Tile standards.

Clay roof tile shall comply with ASTM C 1167
Concrete roof tile shall comply with BS EN 490 Concrete roofing tile and fittings
7.2.3.6.5 Fasteners.
Nails shall be corrosion-resistant and not less than 3.5mm, 8mm head, and of sufficient length to
penetrate the deck a minimum of 20mm or through the thickness of the deck, whichever is less.
Attaching wire for clay or concrete tile shall not be smaller than 2.00mm. Perimeter fastening areas
include three tile courses but not less than 900mm from either side of hips or ridges and edges of
eaves and gable rakes.
Clay and concrete tile attachment
Sheathing Roof slope Number of fasteners
Solid without battens All One per tile
Spaced or solid with battens Slope < 40% (22°) Not required
Spaced sheathing without 40% (22°)< slope <100% One per tile/every other row
battens (45°)
100% (45°)< slope < 200% One per tile

(64°)
Tile shall be applied in accordance with this chapter and the manufacturer's installation
instructions, based on the following:
1. Roof Slope
2. Underlay system
3. Type of tile being installed
Clay and concrete roof tiles shall be fastened in accordance with this section and the
manufacturer's installation instructions. Perimeter tiles shall be fastened with a minimum of one
2
fastener per tile. Tiles with installed weight less than 45kg/m require a minimum of one fastener per
tile regardless of roof slope. Clay and concrete roof tile attachment shall be in accordance with the
manufacturer's installation instructions where applied in areas where the winds speed exceeds
130km/hr and on buildings where the roof is located more than 12m above grade. In all other areas,
clay and concrete roof tiles shall be attached.
7.2.3.6.7 Flashing.
At the juncture of the roof vertical surfaces, flashing and counter flashing shall be provided in
accordance with this chapter and the manufacturer's installation instructions, and where of metal, shall
not be less than 0.50mm corrosion resistant metal.
The valley flashing shall extend at least 300mm from the centreline each way and have a splash
diverter rib not less than 25mm high at the flow line formed as part of the flashing.
Sections of flashing shall have an end lap of not less than 100mm.
For roof slopes of 25% (15°) and over, the valley flashing shall have a 900mm wide underlay of
one layer of Type I underlay running the full length of the valley, in addition to other required underlay.
7.2.3.7 Built-up roofs.

The installation of built-up roofs shall comply with the provisions of this section.
7.2.3.7.1 Slope.
Built-up roofs shall have a design slope of a minimum of 2.5% for drainage, except for coal-tar
built-up roofs that shall have a design slope of a minimum 1%.

Built-up roof covering materials shall comply with the standards in table.
BUILT-UP ROOFING MATERIAL STANDARDS
MATERIAL STANDARD STANDARD
Aggregate surfacing ASTM D1863
Asphalt-coated glass fibber base sheet ASTM D4601
Asphalt glass felt ASTM D2178
Asphalt-saturated and asphalt-coated organic felt base sheet ASTM D2626
Asphalt-saturated organic felt (perforated) ASTM D226
Asphalt used in roofing ASTM D312
Coal-tar saturated organic felt ASTM D227
Coal-tar used in roofing ASTM D450, Types I or
II
Glass mat, coal tar ASTM D4990
Glass mat, venting type ASTM D4897
Mineral-surfaced inorganic cap sheet ASTM D3909
Built-up roofs shall be installed according to this chapter and the manufacturer's installation
instructions.
8 Figures
In AutoCAD 14
Principle
Fig A1-1 Plan of building proportion X
Fig A1-2 Recommended location of wall openings X
Fig A1-3 Recommended location of wall opening for two storey building X
Fig A1-4 Typical roof gable wall arrangement X
Fig A1-5 Recommended method of construction on sloping sites X
Fig A1-6 In-fill panel between timber building supports X
Fig A1-7 Timber framing showing bracing X
Fig A1-8 Timber framing for wall X
Fig A1-9 Rafter/wall plate connections X
Fig A1-10 Rafter/ring beam connections X
Fig A1-11 Wall plate connections and hurricane ties X
Design criteria
Fig A2-1a Basic 1 or 2 level house type X
Fig A2-1b Mixed 1 or 2 level house type X
Fig A2-1c 1 or 2 level house, other type of combination X
Fig A2-2 Trinidad & Tobago Winds X
Fig A2-3 Trinidad flood prone areas X
Fig A2-4 Tobago flood prone areas Not available
Minimal requirement
Fig A3-1 Minimum room sizes X
Fig A3-2 Typical furniture arrangement X
Fig A3-3 Typical furniture arrangement, 7.5m2 room X
Fig A3-4 Habitable room area X
Fig A3-5 Toilet, bath and shower space required X
Fig A3-6 Stairs and landings X
Fig A3-7 Ramps and landings X
Fig A3-8 Steps (Treads, risers and nosing) X
Fig A3-9 Stair handrails X
Fig A3-10 Guards X
Fig A3-11 Septic tank 2500 litres 5 persons maxi X
Fig A3-12 Septic tank 3200 litres 8 persons maxi X
Fig A3-13 Soak-away X
Fig A3-14 Draining trench X
Foundations
Fig B-1 Foundation types X
Fig B-2-1a Arrangement for strip footing 150mm vertical core blocks X
Fig B-2-1b Arrangement for strip footing 200mm vertical core blocks X
Fig B3 Typical spread footing details X
Masonry
Fig B-4 1 and 2 level House type X
Fig B-5 Load & non load bearing clay or concrete blocks X
Fig B-6-1 Shear panel - Vertical core blocks X
Fig B-6-2 Shear panel - Horizontal core blocks X
Fig B-7-1 Typical external wall arrangement X
Fig B-7-2 Typical external wall arrangement X
Fig B-8 Openings and lintels X
Fig B-9-1 Typical wall corner details - Vertical core blocks X
Fig B-9-2 Typical wall corner details - Horizontal core blocks X
Fig B-10-1 Typical wall intersection details- Vertical core blocks X
Fig B-10-2 Typical wall intersection details- Horizontal core blocks X
Fig B-11-1 Typical wall reinforcement and phasing construction-Vertical X
core
Fig B-11-2 Typical wall reinforcement and phasing construction- horizontal X
core
Fig B-12-1 Internal wall arrangement and reinforcement-vertical core X
Fig B-12-2 Internal wall arrangement and reinforcement-horizontal core X

Fig B-13 Ring beam reinforcement X
Fig B-14 Detail of ground floor slab on grade X
Fig B-15 Detail of suspended ground floor slab X
Fig B-16 Typical hip roof construction X
Fig B-17-1 2 level house - Typical cross section masonry blocks X
Fig B-17-2 2 Level house - Typical cross section columns, beams and X
shear panel
Fig B-17-3 2 Level house - Typical cross section framed structure Next edition
Fig B-18 Slabs and beams typical arrangements X
Fig B-19-1 Beam reinforcement - Typical arrangement Mild Steel X
Fig B-19-2 Beam reinforcement - Typical arrangement HR steel X
Fig B-20 Concrete beams (Middle and Side) X
Fig B-21 Beam sections X
Timber
Fig C-1 Wall height X
Fig C- 2 Top plate framing to accommodate piping X
Fig C -3 Typical wall, floor and roof framing X
Fig C- 4 Framing details X
Fig C- 5 Floor construction X
Fig C- 6 Joist cutting, notching and drilling X
Metal steel X
Fig D1-1 Steel frame typical X
Fig D1-2 Z purlin details X
Fig D1-3 Beam framing X
Fig D1-4 Column base plates X
Fig D1-5 Roof beam details X
Fig D1-6 Z or C steel profile used as rafter X
9 Tables
Tables not in the Word text.
Concrete
Table B-1 Concrete composition X
Table B-4 Typical reinforcement for two way slabs X
Table B-7-1 Typical reinforcement for concrete beams- X

2 way slab and MS Steel grade 250
Table B-7-2 Typical reinforcement for concrete beams- Next edition
1 way slab and MS Steel grade 250
Table B-7-3 Typical reinforcement for concrete beams- X
2 way slab and HR Steel grade 420
Table B-7-4 Typical reinforcement for concrete beams- Next edition
1 way slab and HR Steel grade 420
Timber
Table C-1 Timber names for use in Trinidad & Tobago X (2 pages)
Table C-5 Maximum roof span for rafter X
Table C-6 Maximum roof span for battens and joists X
Steel structure
Table D-1 Z purlins X
Table D-2 MS beam type 1 X
Table D-3 MS beam type 2 X
Table D-4 Z or C rafters X
10 Normative references
This chapter lists the standards that are referenced in various sections of this
document.
ASTM
American Society for Testing and Materials
100 Barr Harbor Drive
West Conshohocken, PA 19428
Standard reference Title Code reference

number
ASTM A 755M - 94 Specification for steel sheet, metallic Roof materials

coated by the hot dip process and pre-painted
by the coil-coating process for exterior exposed
building products
ASTM B 101-96 Lead coated copper sheets Roof materials
ASTM C 34-96 Specification for structural clay load- Hollow masonry blocks
bearing wall tile.
ASTM C 406 - 89 Specification for roofing slate Roof materials
ASTM C 652-95a Specification for hollow brick (Hollow Hollow masonry blocks
masonry units made from clay or shale)
ASTM C 1167 - Specification for clay roof tiles Roof materials

94a
ASTM D 224 - 89 Specification for smooth surfaced asphalt Roof materials

roll roofing (Organic felt)
ASTM D 225-95 Asphalt shingles (Organic felt) surfaced Roof materials

with mineral granules
ASTM D 226-94 Specification for asphalt-saturated organic Roof materials

felt used in roofing and water proofing
ASTM D 227-97a Coal tar saturated organic felt used in Roof materials
roofing and waterproofing
ASTM D 249-89 Specification for coal tar saturated organic Roof materials
(96) felt used in roofing and water proofing
ASTM D 312-84 Specification for asphalt used in roofing Roof materials

ASTM D 450-96 Coal tar pitch used in roofing, damp- Roof materials
proofing and waterproofing
ASTM D 1863-93 Mineral aggregate used in built up roofs Roof materials

(96)
ASTM D 2178-97a Asphalt glass felt used in roofing and Roof materials
waterproofing
ASTM D 2626-97a Asphalt saturated and coated organic felt Roof materials
base sheet used in roofing
ASTM D 3462-97a Asphalt shingles made from glass felt and Roof materials
surfaced with mineral granules
ASTM D 3909-97a Asphalt roll roofing (Glass felt) surfaced Roof materials
with mineral granules
ASTM D 4601-97a Asphalt coated glass fibre base sheet used Roof materials
in roofing
ASTM D 4869-88 Asphalt saturated organic felt underlay Roof materials

used in roofing
ASTM D 4897-97a Asphalt coated glass fibre venting base Roof materials
sheet used in roofing
ASTM D 4990-97a Coal tar glass felt used in roofing and Roof materials
waterproofing
ASTM E 84-91a Test method for surface burning Foam plastic

characteristics for building materials
Flame spread and
smoke density
Insulation
ASTM E 90-90 Test method for laboratory measurement Dwelling unit separation
of airborne sound transmission loss of building
partitions
ASTM E 96-92 Standard test methods for water vapour Moisture vapour
transmission of materials retarders
ASTM E 119-88 Test methods for fire tests of building Dwelling unit separation
construction and materials
ASTM E 492-90 Test method for laboratory measurement Dwelling unit separation
(96) of impact sound transmission through floor
ceiling assemblies using the tapping machine
ASTM E 814-94b Test method for fire tests of through Dwelling unit separation
penetration fire stops
ASTM E 970-94a Standard test method for critical radiant Insulation
flux of exposed attic floor insulation using a
radiant heat energy source
ASTM E 1300-97 Standard practice for determining the Glazing

minimum thickness and type of glass required
to resist a specified load
AWPA
American Wood-Preservers Association
PO Box 5690
Granbury, Texas 76049

number
C1-90 All timber products- Preservative Protection against termites

treatment by pressure processes
C15-90 Wood for commercial-residential

construction- Preservative treatment
by pressure processes
BS
British Standards

number
BS EN 490 : 1994 Concrete roofing tiles and fittings. Roof materials

Product specifications.
CPSC
Consumer Product Safety Commission
4330 East West Highway
Bethesda, MD 20814-4408

number
CPSC 16-CFR, Safety standard for architectural Glazing

part 1201-77 glazing
CPSC 16-CFR part Interim safety standard for Insulation

1209-79 cellulose insulation
CPSC 16-CFR part Cellulose insulation Insulation

1404
CUBIC

number
IRC
International Residential Code for One and Two Family Dwellings
Doubletree Hotel
3050 Bristol Street
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

number
ISO
Case postale 56
CH- 1211 Geneva, 20
Switzerland

number
STD Version 1 STD template for the preparation Presentation of the "Small
of normative-type documents. building code".
Reference manual.
TTS
Trinidad and Tobago Standard
Trincity Industrial Estate
Macoya, Tunapuna, Trinidad

number
TTS 16 80 400: Code of practice for the design Sanitation

1991 and construction of septic tanks and
associated secondary treatment and
disposal system.
TTS 16 35 508 Specification for load bearing Hollow masonry blocks

masonry concrete units.
TTS 16 35 509 Specification for non load bearing Hollow masonry blocks
concrete masonry units.
TTS 16 35 511: Specification for corrugated Roof materials

1998 galvanised and aluzinc coated steel
sheets for roofing and general
purpose.
TTS 26 20 505 Electrical code Dwelling unit separation
TTS 583:2000 Carbon steel bars for the Basic materials

reinforcement of concrete -
Specification
ULC
Underwriters Laboratories of Canada
7 Crouse Road
Scarborough, Ontario, Canada MIR 3A9
Standard Title Code reference

reference number
S102.2 - M88 Standard method of test for Insulation

surface burning characteristics of
flooring, floor covering and
miscellaneous materials and assembly

Trinidad &amp; Tobago Small Building Code (Draft)

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1 ADMINISTRATION OF THE CODE 5

1.3 Application to build 5

1.6 Special inspector 8

1.7 Completion certificate 9

1.9 Alternate materials and types of construction 10

2 TERMS AND DEFINITIONS 11

3.2 Design criteria 35

3.3 Minimal requirements 46

3.4 Basic materials 85

5.1 Concrete and masonry 98

5.2 Timber 121

5.3 Metal 133

5.4 Mixed construction 133

6 FLOOR SYSTEMS 136

6.1 Concrete floor slabs 136

6.2 Timber 145

6.3 Metal 150

7 ROOF ASSEMBLIES 152

7.1 Roof structure 152

7.2 Roof covering 165

10 NORMATIVE REFERENCES 179

The Committee, which has prepared this code, is comprised of:-

Mr. Fenrick De Four National Physical Planning Commission (Chairman)

1.3 Application to build

1.3.2 Form of Application to Build

II. Elevations and Sections to Metric Scale 1/50 and/or 1/100

III. Foundation Plan to Metric Scale 1/50 and/or 1/100

IV. Structural details to Metric Scale 1/50 and/or 1/100

1.3.3 Approval in Part

1.6 Special inspector

1.7 Completion certificate

3.1.1.1 Preliminary investigation

3.1.1.2 Checklist for site conditions

3.1.3 Material storage

3.1.4 Batter boards

3.1.5 Driveways and paving

3.1.6 Earth works

3.1.6.1 Site topography

3.1.6.2 Soil conditions

3.1.6.4 Back filling

3.1.7 Earthquake considerations

3.1.7.1 Earthquake resistant construction

3.1.7.1.3 Effect of high seas

3.1.7.1.4 Building shape

Fig A1-1 Plan of building proportion

Not acceptable opening location

1 800mm min Shear panel

Fig A1-2 Recommended location of wall opening

3.1.7.2 Rules for the construction of earthquake resistant buildings

3.1.7.2.1 Masonry buildings

3.1.7.2.2 Timber buildings

3.1.7.2.3 Steel buildings

3.1.7.3 Location of openings

3.1.8.1 Hurricane resistant construction

3.1.8.2 Rules for the construction of hurricane resistant buildings

3.1.8.2.1 Building site

3.1.8.2.2 Timber buildings.

Fig A1-4 Typical roof gable wall arrangement

200x300 r.c. tie beam

r.c. strip footing

Ground slopes should be less than 15 degrees

Trinidad & Tobago Small Building Code (Draft)

Trinidad & Tobago Small Building Code (Draft)