Welcome to the wacky world of slopes! It’s time to discover as much as possible regarding a proper slope for a patio. What are some of the building and safety codes? What are the consequences of having a patio with the wrong slope? Continue to find out.
What Happens if a Patio Slopes Wrong?
If a patio slopes wrong, the consequences, like housing foundation issues, can be dangerous such as erosion and water damage. And if the patio does meet building or safety codes, it could lead to penalties. In addition, the wrong slope can make the patio difficult or even impossible to use. If you have a disability, an improper slope can make it difficult or impossible to access your patio.
What Is a Good Patio Slope?
Most disability groups recommend a 1:12 (8%) slope for mobility, while sidewalks with a slope of 1:20 (5%) or more are considered ramps. The minimum slope for hardscape or patios within ten feet of a building is 1/4″ per foot, or 2% grade away from the residence.
In other words, Hardscape patios must have a 1:48 fall and be made of pavers, flagstone, brick, cut stone, tile, concrete, pea gravel, wood composite, or plastic. The IRC requires a 6″ or greater drainage slope within 10 feet of a structure or a 5% grade. Drainage pipes must slope 1/4″ per foot minimum and 3″ per foot max or run vertically.
One-eighth of an inch (3 millimeters) per linear foot is a good slope for a patio facing away from the dwelling. A slab two inches 50 mm above the ground is typical. It has a thickness of four inches and 100 mm.
So before installing your new patio, check your local rules and codes to ensure you comply!
Building and Safety Codes- Important?
The building and safety codes are essential because they ensure that the construction of your patio is done correctly and safely.
The codes cover proper materials, the correct way to build the structure, and how to handle electrical and plumbing systems. Violating these codes can result in an unsafe patio or even a hazardous design.
Slope Building Codes
The International Residential Code (IRC) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) are the most critical codes to consider when constructing a slope on a patio.
The IRC requires that all impervious surfaces within 10 feet of a building foundation must have a slope of 2% or 1/4 inch per foot. This slope is necessary to ensure that water drains away from the building and does not pool around the foundation.
Other Clauses
The ADA requires that all pedestrian walkways be accessible and safe for everyone, including those with disabilities. This means the path must have a safe cross-fall and travel slope and be slip-resistant under all normal use conditions.
The height of the outside door stairs is another problem that the IRC code may impact in your patio design. The height of the threshold of an external door cannot be more than 7 3/4 inches, as measured from the level of the patio.
Final Word
Patios are all about enjoying the great outdoors, and what’s more enjoyable than doing so on a slope? Not much, in our opinion!
Consider adding a slope if you want to add some fun (and functionality) to your patio installation. You won’t regret it!
