Get set with new 2003 IBC concrete provisions guide

With an extended commentary, comparisons and design examples, you can reinforce your concrete knowledge with the Application Guide for the 2003 IBC Concrete Provisions (Chapter 19).

"The guide is an excellent technical reference for engineers, architects and building safety officials," said Karl Deppe, International Code Council Staff Engineer. "It explains and illustrates the provisions of Chapter 19."

The new guide provides background on the concrete chapter, Chapter 19, of the 2003 International Building Code (IBC) and will help you to firm up your understanding of the code and referenced standards.

"This book has a unique combination of commentary and code application concerning concrete," said Susan Dowty, S.E. of S.K. Ghosh Associates. "It would be great for civil and structural engineering practitioners and code professionals who deal with concrete, as well as civil engineering students and faculty."

The guide is divided into three parts. In a clear, easy-to-read writing style, Part 1 provides code commentary and explains how the code text differs from the previous edition. It also goes into the why's and how's of Chapter 19. For example, in the 2003 IBC, section 1903.4 states, "Water used in mixing concrete shall be clean..." The Application Guide explains why and how the different additives can impact setting time and durability of mixing concrete.

Part 2 addresses the differences between the primary standard of reference in the 2003 IBC versus the 2000 edition. The 2003 IBC concrete chapter references the American Concrete Institute's 2002 standard, ACI 318-02 Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete. Chapter 19 of the 2000 IBC references the previous edition, ACI 318-99 Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete.

The design examples in Part 3 clarify the proper application of different code provisions. Examples begin with a set of given data and include figures and equations so the reader can properly implement the requirements. With easy-to-follow diagrams, this section provides visuals that strengthen the text in the previous sections.

To purchase the Application Guide for the 2003 IBC Concrete Provisions (Chapter 19), visit the ICC Store at www.iccsafe.org/2003concrete, or call 1-800-786-4452. Price: $28 (ICC members), $35 (nonmembers).

The International Code Council, a membership association dedicated to building safety and fire prevention, develops the codes used to construct residential and commercial buildings, including homes and schools. Most U.S. cities, counties and states that adopt codes choose the International Codes developed by the International Code Council.

EDITORS' NOTE: A graphic of the book cover is available at www.iccsafe.org/2003concrete-cover.