Building Codes and Inspections/sliding glass doors

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Expert: - 6/22/2011


Question
Hi, I am appraising a house that is 16 years old. The dining room has a sliding glass door with no security bar to the outside. The drop to the ground is 20 inches. Is there a code for safety regarding this issue. The lender insists that he put up a guard before they will refi

thank you!
denise

Answer
Hi Denise -

This isn't really a door question and that's my area of expertise.  I'm positive that there is a limit to that height, but I don't know what it is.  I would think 20" is greater than the allowable drop and would require a guard of some sort.  Your local building inspector can tell you.

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Volunteer

Lori Greene

Expertise

I can help with code questions related to doors and hardware. I am familiar with the IBC, NFPA 80, NFPA 101, NFPA 105, ADAAG, and ICC/ANSI A117.1. My expertise is specific to door openings.

Experience

I have worked in the door and hardware industry since 1986. I have conducted countless presentations on code requirements for doors and hardware, and maintain a blog related to doors and hardware (www.ihatehardware.com).

Organizations
Door & Hardware Institute (DHI) Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) International Code Councel (ICC)

Publications
Doors & Hardware Magazine

Education/Credentials
Vermont Technical College, Associate Degree in Architecture and Building Engineering Technology - 1986

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