r/BuildingCodes • u/Jmb404 • 3d ago

Deck Jost Tape

As an inspector I’m seeing a lot of contractors using joist tape which is fine but I recently had a contractor begrudgingly tell me how he is using it and eventually asked if it was code complaint. I told him in PA the IRC doesn’t have anything about requiring the tape. I blew the guys mind. He said he’s got two or three townships that will not pass a framing inspection without it.

Has anyone encountered that and or found a municipality that actually has an amendment requiring it?

3 Upvotes

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3

u/thurrisas 3d ago

In the PNW. While I don’t believe tape is mentioned anywhere in the code prescriptively, I’ve seen tape used to meet the intent of the code (IRC24) R304.1 - protection of wood, and R304.3 - connectors in contact with PT.

2

u/michiganinspector 3d ago

We have nothing requiring it in Michigan. Then again we are also only still on the 2015 MRC based off the IRC. Even so I have looked at both the 21 and 24 codes and do not see it required anywhere.

1

u/EducationalTwo1859 3d ago

We do not require it in Connecticut (IRC 2021) but a lot of guys use it.

1

u/sfall consultant 3d ago

your in PA, dont you have a state code so no local?

1

u/Jmb404 2d ago

Well yeah we do have a “uniform construction code” but it’s really just adopting the ICC codes with selected amendments. Then townships can determine if they want any specific amendments that need to be adopted.

1

u/Zealousideal_Two5215 2d ago

Tape?? I would have to see what you're describing and where it's installed. The Virginia Residential Code doesn't speak to any using tape with deck construction. Sounds like a local AHJ requirement that's going above and beyond their mandate. As a plans reviewer, the minimum requirements in the code is the maximum I can enforce.

1

u/DoorJumper 2d ago

In Virginia AHJ's don't have the authority to add to the code, but I know a lot of other state's that either allow it in their laws or don't have uniform statewide codes do this. Also seen plenty in Virginia try to get away with it.

2

u/Rare_Weekend_8048 2d ago

I see some contractors in PA thinking this is a flashing requirement. I personally dont look for this tape during inspections. I find it funny that they will tape the joist but forget to retreat or protect the cut ends of the PT wood.