Residential Building Inspector B1Building Planning and Life SafetyHard
A residential building inspector is performing a rough-in inspection for a new dwelling. The plans show a shower compartment. What is the minimum required finished interior dimension from the shower control wall to the opposing wall?
- A24 inches
- B36 inches
- C32 inches
- D30 inches
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. 30 inches
IRC R307.1 states that shower compartments shall have a minimum of 900 square inches (0.58 m2) of interior cross-sectional area and shall be capable of encompassing a 30-inch (762 mm) diameter circle. The minimum dimension for the 30-inch diameter circle is 30 inches. Therefore, the minimum finished interior dimension from the control wall to the opposing wall must be 30 inches.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This dimension is insufficient to encompass a 30-inch diameter circle.
- B. This dimension exceeds the minimum requirement but is not the minimum.
- C. While 32 inches is a common shower pan size, the code minimum is capable of encompassing a 30-inch diameter circle, which means a 30-inch minimum dimension in all directions.
Shower Compartment Minimum Size
Minimum interior dimensions and area required for a shower compartment to ensure usability and safety.
- Minimum area of 900 sq inches.
- Must accommodate a 30-inch diameter circle.
- Critical for user comfort and safety.
Memory trick: For a shower to feel just right, 30 inches wide, a comforting sight.