HomeMy WebLinkAbout828 PETERSON ST - SPECIAL INSPECTIONS - 8/26/2003Date:
Client:
Project No:
Subject:
Mr. Stalnaker,
August 26t'', 2003
Grant Stalnaker
828 Peterson Street
Fort Collins, CO 80524
SF03-218
Proposed basement window modifications
SECURE
FOUNDATIONS &STRUCTURES, INC.
211 West Magnolia, Suite B
Fort Collins, CO 80521
phone: 970-472-6255
fax: 970-472-6256
sfsengineering@frii.com
Per your request, we made a site visit to the home at the above referenced address. The purpose of our
visit was to observe the existing basement windows that are proposed to be enlarged to meet egress
requirements andto provide consultation on these proposed new openings. These observations were made
on August 22"d, 2003.
The home consists of a conventionally framed raised ranch style structure over a cast -in -place concrete
basement foundation. The windows in question are located on the south basement wall. Presently the south
basement wall has five existing windows (see attached photo). It is our understanding it is desired to
increase several of the existing windows in size so that they meet the minimum opening required for egress.
We understand the new windows will have a minimum depth of 2'-4" (slightly deeper than the existing) and
be 5'-0" wide (about twice as wide as the existing) Furthermore, we understand the grades along the south
side will be approximately one foot lower than the historical grade.
Based upon our observations, and our experience with projects of this type, it is our opinion the new
openings could be cut into the existing south basement foundation wall. We recommend the following:
1.) Per code it appears that each egress opening shall have a minimum net clear opening space of
5.7 square feet, a minimum opening height not less than 24" (inches), and a minimum opening
width not less than 20" (inches). Furthermore, the maximum sill height should not be more than
44" (inches) above the floor. Your proposed sizes should work with the exception of the floor
to sill height. We recommend you discuss the sizes of the windows and floor to sill dimension
with the building official to make sure your proposed changes are acceptable.
2.) Of the five existing windows along the south basement wall the two windows immediately east
of the fireplace are, in our opinion, the best candidates. Each of these could be expanded
Foundation and Structural Engineering • Inspections - Diagnostics and Repair - Bridge Design - Retaining Wall Design
SASF Engineering\2003 SF Projects\SF 218 - 828 Peterson Street\Letters\SF03-218 egress.wpd
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downward to accommodate a 2'4" window depth and towards the east (in width) no more than
necessary to meet egress opening requirements (or 5 foot maximum).
3.) The window near the west corner would need it's depth increased significantly since the
available length between the comer and the fireplace is limited. Decreasing the foundation wall
depth near the corner could adversely weaken the corner. Therefore, we recommend this
window remain unaltered.
4.) Ofthe two remaining windows, the existing double window (fourth one east ofthe fireplace) is
the next best candidate. Given the width of the existing opening at this location, it's probably
only necessary to increase the depth of this window to meet the minimum egress opening size.
5.) Each new opening shall have a pressure treated (PT) 5 ply 2x8 Hem -Fir #2 or better header
and a PT 2x8 Hem -Fir jam each side and PT 2x8 Hem -Fir sill (See the attached sketch).
6.) No new openings shall be placed below new LVL/ML header bearing locations above.
This report is based upon our site observations and our experience with projects of this type. Our
observations were limited by the presence of backfill, wall and floor coverings, and other obstructions.
Unseen defects may exist which could affect the performance of the structure. No warranties or guarantees
regarding the future performance of the structure are expressed or implied.
Thank you for selecting SECURE for your engineering needs. When we can be of additional service, please
contact the undersigned.
Respectfully submitted,
SECURE FOUNDATIONS AND STRUCTURES, INC.
6g7
James A. Cherry, P.E.
Project Engineer
3 copies sent
SASF Engineering\2003 SF Projects\SF 218 - 828 Peterson Street\Letters\SF03-218 egress.wpd
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