Interpretation #7122

Published February 05, 2013

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Original Request

Code Version
2010
Code
BUILDING
Code Description
Building
Chapter
12
Section
1203.1
Topic
Perforated vinyl soffits

Question

Q1 - Are perforated vinyl soffits permitted in Tampa? Q2 - Are there limitations on soffit material based on overall soffit width? Q3 - If blocking or bridging is provided that does not interfere with air movement and meets soffit manufacturer installation instructions can vinyl soffit be used to soffit widths of 4'-6" in Tampa?

Answer Published 02/05/2013 at 11:29 AM

Q1 Perforated vinyl soffits are permitted in accordance

with the referenced section, but there is no restriction on

location. (i.e. Tampa) They may not provide the sole means

of ventilation. The section calls for at least 50% of the

required ventilating area to be located in the upper

portion of the space to be ventilated at least 3 feet above

eave or cornice vents. The net free ventilating area can

not be less than 1/300 of the area of the space ventilated.



Q2. The code contains no limits on soffit width, but

requires Product Approval and labeling and installation in

accordance with the manufacturer's installation

instructions. They are required to be designed for the

design pressure for walls for components and cladding and

to be tested at 1.5 times the design pressure. (FBCB

s.1715.9 and FBCR s.616)



Q3. Yes, provided the width meets the manufacturer's

installation instructions and the product approval limits.

Commentary

None