I have a project where the designer wants to use a “timber” storefront/curtainwall system. The project is located in a central business district on a low-rise commercial building. It will be subject to a relatively wind load.
I seem to remember that the code required certain type of exterior cladding to be non-combustible materials. Can anyone tell me where this is in the IBC or have I been driving too much between Houston and Dallas?
IBC 2018
SECTION 603
COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL IN TYPES I AND II CONSTRUCTION
603.1 Allowable materials. Combustible materials shall be permitted in buildings of Type I or II construction in the following applications and in accordance with Sections 603.1.1 through 603.1.3:
As for fire-resistive rating requirement for the exterior wall material, it depends on how far away from the property line or other building it is.
Also, check with the timber storefront/curtainwall manufacturer.
I would suggest a wood look powder coat on a standard aluminum system.
Received email from Faux Finish from linetec today:
Linetec introduces Aged Light Oak and Aged Dark Oak
two new wood grain finishes for aluminum
Section 1405.1 addresses combustible exterior wall coverings on Types I, II, III, and IV buildings. However, storefront and curtain wall would not be considered an exterior wall covering by code definition but would be considered an opening; thus, a window.
Opening protection would be required based on fire separation distance per Tabel 705.8.
IBC 603.1, Item 6.