Building Codes are Confusing

As USGlass senior editor Joshua Huff puts it, codes are confusing.

“What one state enforces, another lacks, leading to compliance issues and costly hardware replacements,” he writes in a June 2025 article in USGlass magazine. “Building codes set minimum requirements for designing and constructing structural systems and other aspects of commercial and residential buildings.”

I recommend reading Huff’s article to understand some of the challenges to meeting local building codes regarding hardware.

A few months ago, a customer called me to ask for help with a local building inspector. They had installed half-inch heavy glass handrail systems in the same state and area for some time. They liked to use a small 1 ½ inch by 1 1/8-inch square stainless steel top cap, which they used not only as a top cap on guardrails but also on handrails for residential staircases.

The customer explained that they had never failed an inspection after multiple jobs over several years and numerous building inspectors. Recently, a new building inspector cited them for not using a 1 ¼ inch by 20-inch round railing tube on the staircase. They were looking for an argument to use with the inspector so they would not have to replace the handrail. Unfortunately, I had none; the authority with jurisdiction has the last word on passing an inspection.

Huff’s article discusses the confusion in many localities about what building code is being enforced. A state may often update its building code, but many localities are not enforcing the new code yet. For many reasons, it usually takes several years for individual cities and towns to implement the new rules. Training costs or manufacturers have not yet caught up to the codes with next-generation products.

However, when enforcement finally occurs, it can be unexpected for contractors. Huff focuses on the California code for panic exit devices. The door needs to be tested, and the individual panic handles must operate independently using five pounds of force or less to meet ADA exit device codes. This means the door needs to meet two codes. One for the force to open the door with the panic handle installed, and a separate test and code stating that the handle independently will also operate correctly with five pounds of pressure or less.

Keeping up with best practices and building code changes can be a challenge. Many hardware companies offer educational webinars and programs to keep customers informed. I do many of these, live and recorded, that are available on the Frameless Hardware Company website. Most local trade shows, which I have been talking about for years, also hold training seminars presented by many manufacturers to keep your business up to date.

The cost of not checking with your local authority, especially on projects featuring glass doors and handrails, can cost you. No matter how many times you have passed on other jobs.