Garage lower than house

[BobReeves]

Can anyone tell me if there is a code or some other reason all garage floors I see are lower than the house floor? Even houses built on slabs seem to have a step up from the garage into the house.

TIA
Bob

 

[Gatorboy]

I'm not aware of any codes, but putting the garage floor lower than the house enables you to have taller ceilings in the garage, as well as for some, not such a steep driveway slope from the garage to the street.

 

[RichNJKubota]

Don't remember all the details but there is a section of the building code that states garages need to be lower than the house. The code states how many inches lower but don't recall. The reason is because gasoline can travel from a leaking gas tank directly into the house.

 

[mytoys]

I believe that fumes also will collect near the floor. Having the floor lower in the garage prevents the fumes from entering the house.

 

[pekabu]

In our area I believe 4 inches is required.

 

[Inspector507]

A step up of 4" or a 4" curb around the door opening is required here in Central Ohio.

 

[MossRoad]

Yes, it has to do with gasoline fumes entering the house. The fumes could travel into the house to appliances with pilot lights. Also could build up in basement areas, etc.. There are also some code issues with water heaters, and other appliances with pilot lights when installed in the garage due to the gasoline fumes.

It is also sometimes called a rat wall(self explaining). /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[OkeeDon]

I never knew the technical reasons behind the code, but I know it sure comes in handy when hosing out the garage...

 

[BobReeves]

Thanks Guys, as always I knew you would have the answer.