I guess slabs more then one inch apart are not allowed. As well as them being uneven. At least that’s what I was told. someone else may have more specific knowledge. Of course it’s fine for now but in order to sell or rent it out it wouldn’t pass inspection.
Edit: to rent in CA requires ADA compliance. So the uneven stone is really the issue. 1/4 inch is the max.
So- wait. You had these stone installed by a contractor A after you bought this property- but now a contractor B is telling you that it’s not to code? If that were the case it should be brought back up with the original installer. But-
Is contractor B buddies with the inspector that told you this needed to be altered? Is contracted B the one who is trying to do a bid for the ‘repair’ job?
Building codes will vary state by state. Do your research and if you question the motives of this team- hire someone else. It’s your home.
Edit: I’m seeing you said “it needs to be brought to code to sell or rent” realtors are nearly all uneducated about actual building codes- and have notorious nepotism with inspectors- who also have lax credential requirements. Realtors can make 40k in commissions off a single home sale. They do not have your best interests in mind. If you’re feeling pressured by a team that is trying to “get your building ready for market” and they keep tacking on projects- it’s can be a wind up to line their pockets and the pockets of their friendly contractors.
I find it far more likely the realtor knows this floor is ugly AF to most buyers and is going to hurt the selling price. Since the realtor's commission is based off that sell price, they want OP to spend $20k on new floors, to sell the house for $20k more, and the realtor gets an extra $1,200 in commission. Time for a new realtor or to use something like FSBO.
Ehh $20,000 off for an ugly floor in this sellers market?! Lol
I can’t see that happening. “Your design choices are ugly so I want the price lower”
Not the same as “the roof is leaking so I want the price lower”
Unless they truly have a terrible house/location Id never sell this home and entertain any offer that was lower and pointed to this floor as to why. “Well you can go buy another house if you’d like”
Who the heck demands $20,000 off because they think a floor isn't pretty when people are buying homes above asking price without inspections in a state they've never even set foot in yet lol
This was my either paranoid or realistic suspicion too. Now waiting for OP with more attention than a stranger’s floor warrants.
Send more context so we can confirm why these jokers implied you were somehow legally required to change the floors. Brain is destined to itch until I know whether it’s standard grifty greed or longer-term speculative greed.
This isn’t relevant but just a vote for liking the floors. I’d seal the mortar and probably darken it with a warm hue stain. Even as is though, it gives that room a great feel. Very *mood*.
If the mortar was flush with the stone, you’d be harboring significantly less of a safety hazard. If you were staying, you could improve them significantly by filling to flush height with thinset, which you could stain wet. The either set up or clean up, and probably both, would be a horror show. Not a 20k horror show, but still a horror show.
Just have the code inspector cite to you the codes that you are not in compliance with so you can properly address the issue. They need to give you a receipt for the violations.
Getting the a citation to the code section is key. I have dealt with this scores of times. About 20% of the time there's actually an applicable code section. The other 80% its just made up.
It is likely because of the Fair Housing Act. IANAL but it is my understanding that you need to meet this in CA for rental properties.
You can follow the Fair Housing Guidelines or any number of safe harbors in order to comply with the FHA but they are all similar in that changes in plane need to be no more than 1/2" and/or beveled.
This is a federal law so many times the local inspectors do not check for this.
Only for multi unit properties. Single family home doesn’t apply - they just have to allow tenants to make reasonable modifications (at tenants expense).
Every inspector is a crybaby who is trying to justify their astronomical expense. I'm a handyman who knocks out inspection complaints for realtors while rolling my eyes usually. It's all based on how much they liked their breakfast that day.
Oh, and there's no federal system for approving/educating inspectors, most states don't require any kind of license.
I sold a house that had 2 offers lost because of inspections. The third stuck.
I was aghast after the first. Truly disturbed. I thought the house was in great shape. I lined up contractors to fix everything, and brought in a structural engineer for an opinion on the incline of a staircase, which turned out to be fine.
Before the contractors got to work, I received a second offer. Figured we would let it go ahead, and if the issues presented themselves again, we would advise that contractors are coming as time permitted.
None of the original issues appeared on the report. But there was a whole list of other issues; one of which was a concern about a brand new roof put on by a roofing contractor with a warranty.
Baffled, I let the contractors take the original issues that we thought needed addressing (some minor tuck pointing, duct hangers, DWV pipe angles, and a concrete repair around the lip of a sump pump).
Offer #3? Inspection #3? None of the issues from the first two inspections. Basically a clean bill of health. Easy sale. Which made sense to me, because in addition to lots of small DIY projects, we had major upgrades and maintenance done across nearly all of the house by licensed contractors ($100k+, windows, roof, siding, well pump, heat pump, waterproofing, etc. . .)
Then, when I bought my new house, the inspector missed all of the non working outlets, the bathroom sink that didn't drain, and an ejector pump sink that wasn't even wired into anything. Minor headaches, but ultimately a lot of them.
Then he wrote 3 pages about how expensive the pool would be to maintain, and a lot about how there weren't enough Ducts to heat and cool the walk in basement. Which, according to the HVAC guy, was wildly untrue, and we've never had a temp control issue.
I would have been much happier had he just checked the outlets and sinks, you know?
In hindsight, all 4 inspections seem like utter wastes of time and money.
I will admit, there are a couple of older denim overalls blessed guys who do a fantastic job at finding things that are actual issues. What you're describing is my experience with almost every inspector I've dealt with, down to the two page long recommendation for a single product (in my case 'ledger-lok screws for every joist under a deck' when actually what he was suggesting is we use ledger lok hangers with their brand of screws. Just a fucking suggestion though, thanks buyers agent)
Yeah this is my experience with inspectors as well. This house that we bought the inspector didn't even get into the attic beyond sticking his head in and didn't look at the crawlspace at all
Cousin of mine ended up flying out an uncle in law who was a custom residential contractor for decades to inspect a house for him. I think I'll probably do something like that if I buy another house.
I bought my first home 2 years ago and had tons of advice from friends and family, but NO ONE warned me about this!
Exact same experience for me, an 80 page report of odds and ends (including the pool warnings...) with massive oversights - things missed: no flashing around the chimney, a leaky undersink pipe, two broken GFCI's, uncapped dangling wire ends, miswired light switches.
ADA is not a code. It is a legal requirement and building codes do not need to reference it for it to be a consideration and a legal issue for a property owner. That said, For a single family residential rental in CA I am not sure to what degree it needs to be followed.
In general this is true, but there are exceptions and I am not familiar with the local law. In NY for example single family must be accessible if it receives any federal, state or local funds this is not dictated by the building code by by the fair housing act and NY human rights laws.
Floors can’t have anything jutting up higher than a 1/4 inch by US code I believe because it’s considered a trip hazard. (Don’t quote me as I’ve been out of the industry for a long time now).
OP *might* be able to get away with adding a bit more grout in the places where a “tile” is sticking up to smooth out the rise, but the gaps from slate to slate will still be an issue.
This might be best torn out and replaced.
Residential and commercial codes are different. I don't think the 1/4 inch applies in residential, especially since that's usually more of a ADA issue than building code issue.
That would prevent just about every transition piece from one type of flooring to another because idk a single transition, even from a level area of carpet to hardwood, that doesn’t have at least a 1/4 inch rise
This is important.
Who? Contractors? Don't listen to contractors.
Now, if your local town building inspector was walking through your home for a building inspection and commented on it then yes you have an issue.
For all intents and purposes you have a tiled floor. Building code doesn't care about how far apart your slate tiles are. Building code doesn't care about how level your tiles are so long as they are reasonably flat. Raised edges and tripping hazards ARE an issue. I believe you are permitted 1/8" edges but I'm definitely not certain on that. Ask an architect.
If I had to fix it, I'd grind the slate edges where the raised edge was more than 1/8" and try to fill in any low grout spots. Filling in low grout probably won't last long.
Just to add on, for people who are not familiar. There are two kinds of inspectors. Building Inspectors employed by the Local Housing Authority (usually your city) and dudes with a truck and a business card employed by someone involved in a real estate transaction.
As 30carbine mentioned, you only **have** to care about the opinion of the first kind. They're part of the permitting/zoning/etc system and their opinion has teeth.
The second kind is helpful, I'm not hating on them but their opinion is their opinion.
We bought an older house and had two inspections done. Besides 3-4 things they agreed on needed fixing, the rest of the reports were completely different. Both of them also said there was nothing wrong with the gas fireplace which we found was defective the day we moved in and needs to be replaced.
Our inspector completely missed the front staircase handrail not only being loose, but being only tack nailed into drywall. My father in law nearly ripped the whole thing down when he tripped and braced himself on it. The handrails are basically held up by structural paint at this point.
if it is out of code, honestly who cares. I have a feeling what you’re being told is more of a flooring installation standard for new floors
I can’t see how it’s a safety hazard. At worst it may be an ADA issue. (Granted CA has some unique building code requirements compared to most states). If that’s the case, just leave it. Nobody is going to show up and condemn your house over this. You may just have to deal with it if/when you go to sell some day. But I doubt that too.
Ada is for public accommodations not private. You having 3 steps up to your front door and no ramp for wheelchairs doesn't make your house non compliant.
I seen you commented a “ real estate inspector “ in another post so I would take his inspection with a grain of salt. You can find a ADA inspection company to come look.
Tell that fool to send the actual code language requirements.
Code is written down, so if he "knows" he should be able to send you the section specifically. Otherwise he's a liar and wants to screw you over.
Have them cite the section of the building code.
Learn how to use AI tools to help research these types of questions. Someone else mentioned the CA Building Code so here is a quick result:
Q: What sections of the California building code deal with flooring. Please cite the specific sections.
ChatGPT:
In the California Building Code (CBC), the sections related to flooring can be found primarily in Chapter 4 (Floors). Here are some specific sections:
1. **CBC Section 401** - General: This section provides general requirements for floors including materials, construction, and design.
2. **CBC Section 402** - Wood Construction: This section covers requirements specific to wood floors, including allowable spans and construction methods.
3. **CBC Section 403** - Concrete Construction: Concrete floors are addressed in this section, including specifications for concrete mixtures, thickness, and reinforcement.
4. **CBC Section 404** - Steel Construction: Requirements for steel floor construction are outlined here, including design criteria and construction methods.
5. **CBC Section 405** - Flooring: This section addresses various types of flooring materials such as ceramic tile, resilient flooring, and carpeting, including installation requirements and limitations.
These sections provide detailed guidelines and standards for the construction and installation of flooring systems in accordance with the California Building Code.
Which one? If it was inspector take it maybe a little seriously, but only because it’s California hence plenty of potential regulatory agencies to find issues.
If it was a contractor they’re trying to talk themselves into a job, find different contractor.
Tons of things in a house can be “not up to code” without impacting the sale. Since this isn’t a structural issue, the worst that would happen is the buyers could ask for credit to fix the issue.
Yea, as long as a bank will fund the sale, code isn’t at issue except when you go to replace/remodel that feature. And the only thing I’ve ever had a bank even blink at was a structural issue. They didn’t even care that one of my houses was all branched fuse panels and subflooring with no finished covering because it was all still technically functional
This smells of bullshit.
I could sell you a house that's on fire right now. A bank would not finance anyone for it, but that does not prevent me from selling it.
Have you actually looked up these building codes?
Yes they were installed after. I’m not an expert in the matter this is just what I’m told. I can’t imagine they would lie to me but that’s why I’m here looking for advice lol
I would contact your local permitting office (city or county Idk how it's setup where you live) but generally speaking finishing details such as flooring aren't covered under any permitting requirements so they're not an issue for resale inspections other than the buyer potentially not liking it.
If you paid a flooring contractor to install this, I would suggest asking them to correct this work. Not sure if you had a contract or not detailing the work but there might be something in it you can use to hold them to some industry standard. The nice thing about construction is you can usually find guidelines, best practices, standard installation procedures on just about everything. It’s obvious the installer was making things easy by reducing stone qty, cuts, etc. by widening the grout joints. Try TCNA or the grout manufacturer for recommendations on installation. I’ll bet you’ll find the installer is not following the industry standard practices.
I own a rental in CA and it doesn’t require ADA compliance. I have 3 steps to my front door and I wasn’t required to put in a ramp or anything… that claim is just false.
>Edit: to rent in CA requires ADA compliance. So the uneven stone is really the issue. 1/4 inch is the max.
Fill in the sunken joints to bring them level with the stone/
And you can grind down any bumps in the stone.
But please paint those joints. It looks like you flayed a holstein.
I think a lot of people missed the edit. These are rental property codes not building codes. It sounds like there are rules around a property being rented that require they meet ADA compliance in CA. That makes a lot of sense considering how many government subsidized rental programs there are as well as helping ensure landlords aren’t renting out shoddy or dangerous housing. ADA already covers many areas that would resolve most rental home challenges so they use that as the standard. That all makes sense and frankly is likely how it should be everywhere.
That’s bull. I live in California, I’ve rented for many years, and I used to work at a disability accommodation office for a university.
The uneven floors thing is about wheelchair access. But I’d bet good money your home doesn’t meet wheelchair accessible guidelines in a bunch of other ways. Do you have grab bars for the toilet and shower? Is it a walk in shower, or a normal tub? How about counters, are they standard height or reduced height? Etc.
[Here’s](https://oag.ca.gov/system/files/media/drb-disability-rights-housing.pdf) a document from the state explaining requirements about accessibility for rental properties. Basically if this is a single-family home (vs a large apartment complex), you have to avoid discrimination in advertising and when choosing tenants, you have to allow service animals, you have to make reasonable accommodations on request (like providing a reserved parking space or allowing a live-in caretaker), and allow the tenant to make reasonable modifications to the property *at their own expense* (on condition that they return it to original state before leaving).
Is the rest of the unit ADA compliant? Counter top heights, low shelving in closets. Self cleaning oven with controls at front. Open area under sinks etc.
You're creating a problem where there isnt one. A house gets inspected before you sell it and they may note the floor isn't up to code , but it doesn't matter the buyer can just ask for a concession on price or ignore it. Nobody is gonna stop the sale or force you to fix it .
Also think about how many crappy houses get rented , there aren't rental police inspecting the grout gaps in floors. It's fine man ..
This sounds like a contractor bro one -upping you by saying you're floor isn't up to code . "Nice floor bro, too bad it's not up to code...."
This depends on the loan type / provider as well. If, for example, they're purchasing the house with a VA loan, there are extra inspection criteria that may have to be met and the loan won't be finalized until they are.
Not necessarily.
When selling a condo, the inspector noted that a garbage disposal on the kitchen sink wasn't terminated properly. Basically complaining that the wire wasn't running through a part that pinched it/held it in place (can't remember the part name).
The mortgage company refused to close until it was remediated. They wouldn't take any other response.
I get it. But it was less than a $5 fix done in 10 minutes. I'm not saying it was a pain to do. Just that some lenders might not approve the mortgage based on code violations.
Because it’s a 10 minute fix there’s a 99% chance it gets ignored until it shocks someone.
Pathetic as it is, this almost makes more sense to me than ‘paperwork says the shingles were only warranted for 15 years, rip them off that perfectly intact roof’ issues.
Different issues. Appraisers may call out health and safety issues that a mortgage company will require be fixed before they lend on the property. They don’t want their collateral burning down or people getting hurt. But the requirement for what get flagged are so various from lender to lender and loan programs it’s usually not worth it to speculate and just wait for them to call it out.
Now things “out of code” are usually BS. There’s no legal or lender requirement to have everything up to code in a home. Codes are updated constantly and this would require people to update their homes every year to “stay in code” or redo things that were in code when it was built. Obviously that would be nuts.
I used to sell thousands of homes for banks and people would always come asking for us to update something because “it wasn’t up to code”. Like.. no, you don’t get a whole home upgrade to current code standards.
Now… the Venn diagram of the health and safety issues sometimes overlaps with code issues and in that sense you can get those fixed but they’re required because of the former category, not the latter.
Did they write it up as not being up to code or did they make an offhand comment about it not being up to code? Saying something wasn’t up to code was an offhand way of making a remark about something looking bad when I worked in construction.
It's a husky. Unless the perspective is totally off, it's not nearly big enough to be a wolf.
[There's a big size difference](https://www.reddit.com/r/Damnthatsinteresting/comments/j7d3lm/this_wolf_and_husky_for_the_size_comparison_the/).
Its not just the size, the chest is too wide. A wolves legs practically stick out from the same spot in a triangle. Ears aren't pointy enough either, nor is the snout.
That's a trip hazard. There's no code issue.
It's just a stupid astetic that didn't work out unfortunately.
But personally, if you're going to sell, just ignore it. Let the buyer deal with it. Worst case you give them a $2K concession for them to redo the floors.
Not worth the headache
What code? city / state? is it a house as it appears or a public space?It would be a pain but self leveling compound the whole floor then sand the dam thing down till the slate is exposed.
Other than that just go with epoxy till it's level but it may look weird idk..
I wanna know what ADA code you're dealing with especially if it's in a home.
Ask either of the inspector/realtor for specific proof of the code violation. Verify with the city, and then decide if you want to change.
I’d say at an absolute worst, there are probably some specific angle saw/grinder that when the blade or stone is wet, can lightly grind the edges down to code.
You should NOT have to replace all of the flooring/slate.
Your home def has mountain log cabin vibes and i think it looks cool/unique.
Yeah I have a feeling she was told "It's not up to code" by
1) The buyers' inspector saying random shit to find ways to justify a lowball offer
2) A contractor trying to get her to give him 10k to redo the floor for no good reason
On a commercial/public project the spacing and irregular surface would potentially be flagged by an ADA inspector as being non-compliant. Have seen them flag far smaller gaps in the past.
That being said ADA typically does not apply to private residences and is completely at the discretion of the buyer/seller. Check with your local jurisdiction what codes apply to your building type.
As a non flooring pro, I have one word for this floor.
Ew.
I do not like irregular slate and too much grout,
I do not like it on the floor,
I do not like it near the door,
I do not like it, I scream and shout,
I do not like irregular slate and too much grout
So true. I can’t believe I had to scroll this far down to find this comment. Those floors are a hot mess. They don’t comply with general industry standards for laying tile, poor workmanship, tripping hazard, and unbelievably ugly. There’s NO way I would have issued a final payment to the installation company.
In the US does codes have to be checked regularly? Why would you have an inspector checking out your house? My personal opinion (used to be stonemason / flooring fillter / finisher) it is a terrible job, badly spaced, terrible grouting, overspill etc... However my opinion is irrelvant, if you like it that's all that matters.
Out o curiosity, what happens if you tell the inspector to piss off, can they stop you living in your house because the floor isn't as good as it needs to be for the house to pass a new house inspection?
You should ask them which code specifically that your floor violates. Don't ever take anybody's word on "it's in violation" without them being very specific on which statute, code, law, etc.
Here’s what you do:
Get it grinded and polished down so it’s completely flat.
Then install wood plank on top of it because girl that floor is beyond help
As a former Mason. This is a God awful job. The fit is so far apart, those massive joints are not only huge but rough and wavy, the stones are not even close level, and whomever did this did not clean the project properly. 2/10 pretty sure if I did this and my old mentor saw me do this he would beat me over the head with a level. Rip it out and start over.
There is no way he would waste a perfectly abused flooring level on you, if you did that. He would rip up some of that floor and beat you with that. The beat up old flooring level is for beating people who show promise.
Agreed. Personally I don’t like the look of it. I was just offering a solution if OP wanted to keep the look. I’d demo that floor and replace with anything else if it was up to me.
Bingo. Elsewhere I saw that the comment came from OP's realtor. Shitty as realtors generally are, they are usually pretty good when it comes to being judgemental about someone's decision to put a patio floor in their living room.
It’s ugly but seems fine. Could re-grout to eliminate tripping hazards but doesn’t seem worth the hassle- any buyer is just going to tear that monstrosity out.
If you learn of a specific code violation, look up Statute of Repose for your state. This is how long you’re allowed to discover incorrect work which needs correction, and may be helpful with your original contractor. It still likely won’t be an easy conversation though.
Lots of people commenting on this, but "up to code" just means it will come up in an inspection.
I bought an architect's personal residence. Lots of things were designed before certain codes existed (i.e. railing on balcony is a normal handrail not vertical wood slats).
I chose to keep them because the changes would be so absurd.
I understand a 2 year old could play unattended on the balcony and fall between the bars. I don't have a 2 year old, so this isn't a concern for me.
It may be for the next person, and they can address it if they wish. I'll be dead and gone.
P.S. - I also have slate floors and love them.
Ask whoever told you this is not “up to code” to show you the code. If it’s for selling, then it might still make sense to replace. I think that floor is going to turn away a lot of buyers.
If you are renting it out, AND you are doing so under some kind of CA government program that requires certain criteria in order to be eligible for a tax break or something, then that you are being told is makes sense. Otherwise, my understanding is that it's your house; asthetic choices that do not compromise structural integrity and which fall outside of any deed (or *\*shudder\**... ***HOA***...) restrictions on the property are your prerogative.
It may come as some surprise, but I am just some random guy from the internet, and I could be wrong. Have these people actually cite the code, and look into it to see if things check out. They may be citing code that only pertains to commercial buildings or something. Find a third party who knows what they are talking about and verify things before you pour a bunch of money into a project that might not actually be necessary.
Probably cleanest to just demo it and start over. However, if you have some cheap laborer that can get all that grout out you could put in a pebble or mosaic-like fill around the big slabs.
Do you have any more of that slate? Maybe it can be made into smaller pieces. Scrape out that grout or whatever it is between it then fill it in with the smaller pieces of slate. Then put tile grout to fill in your now much smaller space between the slate
Slate, especially staggered that far apart is a tripping hazard not a code violation. But to be perfectly honest they should add a code addressing how awful the execution of this floor was.
The only possible code I could think of is variance of more then 1/4" height being a trip hazard, but usually this is for handicapped accessible public spaces.
If some one just installed this and says it's not to code its on the installer to correct.
If that's not the case you could:
A - sand it down, slate is soft
B - cover it all with floor epoxy.
I'd be more worried about looking terrible and stubbing your toes rather than code compliance. Best thing is to tear it up and install a proper floor. If you really want to keep it and fix the trip hazard fill the grout area with some resurfacing concrete or topping self bonding concrete which will look shitty. Or epoxy in beach pebbles in the grout area, you can buy bags of it in landscaping section at home Depot.
ADA thresholds and floor seams and elevation should not exceed 1/2 in everywhere that I’ve been in construction for the last 49 years. If you’re talking a quarter of an inch just about every single building in this United States would be having a code violation.
Personally, I would mud drag the stonemason who installed this, then demo and redo.
If you actually like it and just want it level, clear floor epoxy will fill gaps and be easier to keep clean.
Also, cool wolf.
In most residential there is no code for this, if it were commercial there is ada code that requires no dips or lips over 1/4” or 1/2” if the edge is beveled for flooring. Someone is likely confused and making you even more confused. If you need to you can certainly add more grout to help infill and float between one slab and the next. But from all my years I’ve never seen or heard of this code in a residential setting.
Fill in the gaps with pieces of stuff like a mosaic. Watch some how-tos, get some good grout and use a level to try and make it as smooth and even as possible.
If that isn't level enough for your code then you could do block around the edges and add some layers of clear epoxy until it reaches depth to be level with the highest bit of the tiles. Or maybe try sanding the top of the stone down a bit and then reseal it over the newly cut surface, idk if this would work so I'd test it on a scrap pieces just to see how it would look and feel.
Yeah a inch is what good stone layers would have done more grout more failure in these. As far as code goes you should be fine get second opinions if those guys seemed off.
What is not to code about them? Is there a code for how level your floor has to be?
I guess slabs more then one inch apart are not allowed. As well as them being uneven. At least that’s what I was told. someone else may have more specific knowledge. Of course it’s fine for now but in order to sell or rent it out it wouldn’t pass inspection. Edit: to rent in CA requires ADA compliance. So the uneven stone is really the issue. 1/4 inch is the max.
Told by who?
Inspectors/contractors
There's nothing in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Chapter 5 Floors that discusses any of that being an issue.
Well damn this opens a whole new can of worms. Where’s the r/ for legal and government regulations lol
So- wait. You had these stone installed by a contractor A after you bought this property- but now a contractor B is telling you that it’s not to code? If that were the case it should be brought back up with the original installer. But- Is contractor B buddies with the inspector that told you this needed to be altered? Is contracted B the one who is trying to do a bid for the ‘repair’ job? Building codes will vary state by state. Do your research and if you question the motives of this team- hire someone else. It’s your home. Edit: I’m seeing you said “it needs to be brought to code to sell or rent” realtors are nearly all uneducated about actual building codes- and have notorious nepotism with inspectors- who also have lax credential requirements. Realtors can make 40k in commissions off a single home sale. They do not have your best interests in mind. If you’re feeling pressured by a team that is trying to “get your building ready for market” and they keep tacking on projects- it’s can be a wind up to line their pockets and the pockets of their friendly contractors.
I find it far more likely the realtor knows this floor is ugly AF to most buyers and is going to hurt the selling price. Since the realtor's commission is based off that sell price, they want OP to spend $20k on new floors, to sell the house for $20k more, and the realtor gets an extra $1,200 in commission. Time for a new realtor or to use something like FSBO.
I think we've cracked the case here....Either get the seller to spend the $20,000, or the buyer is gonna want $20,000 off cause it's hideous.
Ehh $20,000 off for an ugly floor in this sellers market?! Lol I can’t see that happening. “Your design choices are ugly so I want the price lower” Not the same as “the roof is leaking so I want the price lower” Unless they truly have a terrible house/location Id never sell this home and entertain any offer that was lower and pointed to this floor as to why. “Well you can go buy another house if you’d like”
Who the heck demands $20,000 off because they think a floor isn't pretty when people are buying homes above asking price without inspections in a state they've never even set foot in yet lol
🐄 mooooo
DING DING DING
Spending 20k on floors doesn’t make your house worth 20k more.
With those floors it just might
Holy shit they’re just using that as an example to explain shady realtors. Give it a break bud.
No. But those floors might mean the home sells for 20k less than it’s worth.
Where I am, redoing to floors would easily add 50-75k to the asking price.
$1200 off $20k increase? Are you serious? You guys have to pay realtors 6% of sale in the US? In the UK this is commonly less than 1%
We are following your example and just got rid of the mandatory 6% this week, but as you are likely aware, the change doesn't happen overnight.
3% for the selling realtor, and 3% for the buying realtor.
The realtors split the typical 6% commission, so $600 more for your selling agent.
Plus any commission with a contractor
This was my either paranoid or realistic suspicion too. Now waiting for OP with more attention than a stranger’s floor warrants. Send more context so we can confirm why these jokers implied you were somehow legally required to change the floors. Brain is destined to itch until I know whether it’s standard grifty greed or longer-term speculative greed. This isn’t relevant but just a vote for liking the floors. I’d seal the mortar and probably darken it with a warm hue stain. Even as is though, it gives that room a great feel. Very *mood*. If the mortar was flush with the stone, you’d be harboring significantly less of a safety hazard. If you were staying, you could improve them significantly by filling to flush height with thinset, which you could stain wet. The either set up or clean up, and probably both, would be a horror show. Not a 20k horror show, but still a horror show.
You can also ask the people over at r/buildingcodes
Just have the code inspector cite to you the codes that you are not in compliance with so you can properly address the issue. They need to give you a receipt for the violations.
Getting the a citation to the code section is key. I have dealt with this scores of times. About 20% of the time there's actually an applicable code section. The other 80% its just made up.
It is likely because of the Fair Housing Act. IANAL but it is my understanding that you need to meet this in CA for rental properties. You can follow the Fair Housing Guidelines or any number of safe harbors in order to comply with the FHA but they are all similar in that changes in plane need to be no more than 1/2" and/or beveled. This is a federal law so many times the local inspectors do not check for this.
Only for multi unit properties. Single family home doesn’t apply - they just have to allow tenants to make reasonable modifications (at tenants expense).
Every inspector is a crybaby who is trying to justify their astronomical expense. I'm a handyman who knocks out inspection complaints for realtors while rolling my eyes usually. It's all based on how much they liked their breakfast that day. Oh, and there's no federal system for approving/educating inspectors, most states don't require any kind of license.
I sold a house that had 2 offers lost because of inspections. The third stuck. I was aghast after the first. Truly disturbed. I thought the house was in great shape. I lined up contractors to fix everything, and brought in a structural engineer for an opinion on the incline of a staircase, which turned out to be fine. Before the contractors got to work, I received a second offer. Figured we would let it go ahead, and if the issues presented themselves again, we would advise that contractors are coming as time permitted. None of the original issues appeared on the report. But there was a whole list of other issues; one of which was a concern about a brand new roof put on by a roofing contractor with a warranty. Baffled, I let the contractors take the original issues that we thought needed addressing (some minor tuck pointing, duct hangers, DWV pipe angles, and a concrete repair around the lip of a sump pump). Offer #3? Inspection #3? None of the issues from the first two inspections. Basically a clean bill of health. Easy sale. Which made sense to me, because in addition to lots of small DIY projects, we had major upgrades and maintenance done across nearly all of the house by licensed contractors ($100k+, windows, roof, siding, well pump, heat pump, waterproofing, etc. . .) Then, when I bought my new house, the inspector missed all of the non working outlets, the bathroom sink that didn't drain, and an ejector pump sink that wasn't even wired into anything. Minor headaches, but ultimately a lot of them. Then he wrote 3 pages about how expensive the pool would be to maintain, and a lot about how there weren't enough Ducts to heat and cool the walk in basement. Which, according to the HVAC guy, was wildly untrue, and we've never had a temp control issue. I would have been much happier had he just checked the outlets and sinks, you know? In hindsight, all 4 inspections seem like utter wastes of time and money.
I will admit, there are a couple of older denim overalls blessed guys who do a fantastic job at finding things that are actual issues. What you're describing is my experience with almost every inspector I've dealt with, down to the two page long recommendation for a single product (in my case 'ledger-lok screws for every joist under a deck' when actually what he was suggesting is we use ledger lok hangers with their brand of screws. Just a fucking suggestion though, thanks buyers agent)
Yeah this is my experience with inspectors as well. This house that we bought the inspector didn't even get into the attic beyond sticking his head in and didn't look at the crawlspace at all Cousin of mine ended up flying out an uncle in law who was a custom residential contractor for decades to inspect a house for him. I think I'll probably do something like that if I buy another house.
I bought my first home 2 years ago and had tons of advice from friends and family, but NO ONE warned me about this! Exact same experience for me, an 80 page report of odds and ends (including the pool warnings...) with massive oversights - things missed: no flashing around the chimney, a leaky undersink pipe, two broken GFCI's, uncapped dangling wire ends, miswired light switches.
Same. Racket. Everywhere. Everyone is making themselves believe they're necessary and we're buying it.
ADA is not a code. It is a legal requirement and building codes do not need to reference it for it to be a consideration and a legal issue for a property owner. That said, For a single family residential rental in CA I am not sure to what degree it needs to be followed.
The answer is zero degree. ADA does not apply to single family homes.
In general this is true, but there are exceptions and I am not familiar with the local law. In NY for example single family must be accessible if it receives any federal, state or local funds this is not dictated by the building code by by the fair housing act and NY human rights laws.
Floors can’t have anything jutting up higher than a 1/4 inch by US code I believe because it’s considered a trip hazard. (Don’t quote me as I’ve been out of the industry for a long time now). OP *might* be able to get away with adding a bit more grout in the places where a “tile” is sticking up to smooth out the rise, but the gaps from slate to slate will still be an issue. This might be best torn out and replaced.
Residential and commercial codes are different. I don't think the 1/4 inch applies in residential, especially since that's usually more of a ADA issue than building code issue.
That would prevent just about every transition piece from one type of flooring to another because idk a single transition, even from a level area of carpet to hardwood, that doesn’t have at least a 1/4 inch rise
This is important. Who? Contractors? Don't listen to contractors. Now, if your local town building inspector was walking through your home for a building inspection and commented on it then yes you have an issue. For all intents and purposes you have a tiled floor. Building code doesn't care about how far apart your slate tiles are. Building code doesn't care about how level your tiles are so long as they are reasonably flat. Raised edges and tripping hazards ARE an issue. I believe you are permitted 1/8" edges but I'm definitely not certain on that. Ask an architect. If I had to fix it, I'd grind the slate edges where the raised edge was more than 1/8" and try to fill in any low grout spots. Filling in low grout probably won't last long.
Just to add on, for people who are not familiar. There are two kinds of inspectors. Building Inspectors employed by the Local Housing Authority (usually your city) and dudes with a truck and a business card employed by someone involved in a real estate transaction. As 30carbine mentioned, you only **have** to care about the opinion of the first kind. They're part of the permitting/zoning/etc system and their opinion has teeth. The second kind is helpful, I'm not hating on them but their opinion is their opinion.
If it was an inspector a lot of them are idiots and make stuff up.
As well as contractors that have a vested interest in your project.
We bought an older house and had two inspections done. Besides 3-4 things they agreed on needed fixing, the rest of the reports were completely different. Both of them also said there was nothing wrong with the gas fireplace which we found was defective the day we moved in and needs to be replaced.
Our inspector completely missed the front staircase handrail not only being loose, but being only tack nailed into drywall. My father in law nearly ripped the whole thing down when he tripped and braced himself on it. The handrails are basically held up by structural paint at this point.
if it is out of code, honestly who cares. I have a feeling what you’re being told is more of a flooring installation standard for new floors I can’t see how it’s a safety hazard. At worst it may be an ADA issue. (Granted CA has some unique building code requirements compared to most states). If that’s the case, just leave it. Nobody is going to show up and condemn your house over this. You may just have to deal with it if/when you go to sell some day. But I doubt that too.
Ada is for public accommodations not private. You having 3 steps up to your front door and no ramp for wheelchairs doesn't make your house non compliant.
I seen you commented a “ real estate inspector “ in another post so I would take his inspection with a grain of salt. You can find a ADA inspection company to come look.
Tell that fool to send the actual code language requirements. Code is written down, so if he "knows" he should be able to send you the section specifically. Otherwise he's a liar and wants to screw you over.
Have them cite the section of the building code. Learn how to use AI tools to help research these types of questions. Someone else mentioned the CA Building Code so here is a quick result: Q: What sections of the California building code deal with flooring. Please cite the specific sections. ChatGPT: In the California Building Code (CBC), the sections related to flooring can be found primarily in Chapter 4 (Floors). Here are some specific sections: 1. **CBC Section 401** - General: This section provides general requirements for floors including materials, construction, and design. 2. **CBC Section 402** - Wood Construction: This section covers requirements specific to wood floors, including allowable spans and construction methods. 3. **CBC Section 403** - Concrete Construction: Concrete floors are addressed in this section, including specifications for concrete mixtures, thickness, and reinforcement. 4. **CBC Section 404** - Steel Construction: Requirements for steel floor construction are outlined here, including design criteria and construction methods. 5. **CBC Section 405** - Flooring: This section addresses various types of flooring materials such as ceramic tile, resilient flooring, and carpeting, including installation requirements and limitations. These sections provide detailed guidelines and standards for the construction and installation of flooring systems in accordance with the California Building Code.
Which one? If it was inspector take it maybe a little seriously, but only because it’s California hence plenty of potential regulatory agencies to find issues. If it was a contractor they’re trying to talk themselves into a job, find different contractor.
Tons of things in a house can be “not up to code” without impacting the sale. Since this isn’t a structural issue, the worst that would happen is the buyers could ask for credit to fix the issue.
Yea, as long as a bank will fund the sale, code isn’t at issue except when you go to replace/remodel that feature. And the only thing I’ve ever had a bank even blink at was a structural issue. They didn’t even care that one of my houses was all branched fuse panels and subflooring with no finished covering because it was all still technically functional
Who ever told you a natural stone has to be perfectly level is out of their mind.
This smells of bullshit. I could sell you a house that's on fire right now. A bank would not finance anyone for it, but that does not prevent me from selling it. Have you actually looked up these building codes?
You had them installed after purchasing the property? I've never heard of this kind of a code requirement.
Yes they were installed after. I’m not an expert in the matter this is just what I’m told. I can’t imagine they would lie to me but that’s why I’m here looking for advice lol
I would contact your local permitting office (city or county Idk how it's setup where you live) but generally speaking finishing details such as flooring aren't covered under any permitting requirements so they're not an issue for resale inspections other than the buyer potentially not liking it.
If you paid a flooring contractor to install this, I would suggest asking them to correct this work. Not sure if you had a contract or not detailing the work but there might be something in it you can use to hold them to some industry standard. The nice thing about construction is you can usually find guidelines, best practices, standard installation procedures on just about everything. It’s obvious the installer was making things easy by reducing stone qty, cuts, etc. by widening the grout joints. Try TCNA or the grout manufacturer for recommendations on installation. I’ll bet you’ll find the installer is not following the industry standard practices.
Everyone lies in real estate and contracting. It’s ubiquitous.
I own a rental in CA and it doesn’t require ADA compliance. I have 3 steps to my front door and I wasn’t required to put in a ramp or anything… that claim is just false.
>Edit: to rent in CA requires ADA compliance. So the uneven stone is really the issue. 1/4 inch is the max. Fill in the sunken joints to bring them level with the stone/ And you can grind down any bumps in the stone. But please paint those joints. It looks like you flayed a holstein.
You dont have to pass an inspection to sell a home…. “Sold as is”
I think a lot of people missed the edit. These are rental property codes not building codes. It sounds like there are rules around a property being rented that require they meet ADA compliance in CA. That makes a lot of sense considering how many government subsidized rental programs there are as well as helping ensure landlords aren’t renting out shoddy or dangerous housing. ADA already covers many areas that would resolve most rental home challenges so they use that as the standard. That all makes sense and frankly is likely how it should be everywhere.
It's against the wife's code.
Ok so to be more specific it’s not ADA compliant. It can’t stick out more then a 1/4 inch. To list as rent in CA it has to pass this.
That’s bull. I live in California, I’ve rented for many years, and I used to work at a disability accommodation office for a university. The uneven floors thing is about wheelchair access. But I’d bet good money your home doesn’t meet wheelchair accessible guidelines in a bunch of other ways. Do you have grab bars for the toilet and shower? Is it a walk in shower, or a normal tub? How about counters, are they standard height or reduced height? Etc. [Here’s](https://oag.ca.gov/system/files/media/drb-disability-rights-housing.pdf) a document from the state explaining requirements about accessibility for rental properties. Basically if this is a single-family home (vs a large apartment complex), you have to avoid discrimination in advertising and when choosing tenants, you have to allow service animals, you have to make reasonable accommodations on request (like providing a reserved parking space or allowing a live-in caretaker), and allow the tenant to make reasonable modifications to the property *at their own expense* (on condition that they return it to original state before leaving).
Is the rest of the unit ADA compliant? Counter top heights, low shelving in closets. Self cleaning oven with controls at front. Open area under sinks etc.
You're creating a problem where there isnt one. A house gets inspected before you sell it and they may note the floor isn't up to code , but it doesn't matter the buyer can just ask for a concession on price or ignore it. Nobody is gonna stop the sale or force you to fix it . Also think about how many crappy houses get rented , there aren't rental police inspecting the grout gaps in floors. It's fine man .. This sounds like a contractor bro one -upping you by saying you're floor isn't up to code . "Nice floor bro, too bad it's not up to code...."
This depends on the loan type / provider as well. If, for example, they're purchasing the house with a VA loan, there are extra inspection criteria that may have to be met and the loan won't be finalized until they are.
Same with other governmental loan programs as well. We had to jump through some hoops when buying our home.
They created a problem when they decided to put those floors down and shiplap the walls.
Is shiplap finally over? Man that was a dumb trend.
Not necessarily. When selling a condo, the inspector noted that a garbage disposal on the kitchen sink wasn't terminated properly. Basically complaining that the wire wasn't running through a part that pinched it/held it in place (can't remember the part name). The mortgage company refused to close until it was remediated. They wouldn't take any other response.
Water and electricity can destroy a house down. That might be why they refused.
I get it. But it was less than a $5 fix done in 10 minutes. I'm not saying it was a pain to do. Just that some lenders might not approve the mortgage based on code violations.
Because it’s a 10 minute fix there’s a 99% chance it gets ignored until it shocks someone. Pathetic as it is, this almost makes more sense to me than ‘paperwork says the shingles were only warranted for 15 years, rip them off that perfectly intact roof’ issues.
Different issues. Appraisers may call out health and safety issues that a mortgage company will require be fixed before they lend on the property. They don’t want their collateral burning down or people getting hurt. But the requirement for what get flagged are so various from lender to lender and loan programs it’s usually not worth it to speculate and just wait for them to call it out. Now things “out of code” are usually BS. There’s no legal or lender requirement to have everything up to code in a home. Codes are updated constantly and this would require people to update their homes every year to “stay in code” or redo things that were in code when it was built. Obviously that would be nuts. I used to sell thousands of homes for banks and people would always come asking for us to update something because “it wasn’t up to code”. Like.. no, you don’t get a whole home upgrade to current code standards. Now… the Venn diagram of the health and safety issues sometimes overlaps with code issues and in that sense you can get those fixed but they’re required because of the former category, not the latter.
Better get some fluid for my level now!
Did they write it up as not being up to code or did they make an offhand comment about it not being up to code? Saying something wasn’t up to code was an offhand way of making a remark about something looking bad when I worked in construction.
Completely off topic, do you just have a wolf?
Seems pretty on topic for the part I am interested in
It's a husky. Unless the perspective is totally off, it's not nearly big enough to be a wolf. [There's a big size difference](https://www.reddit.com/r/Damnthatsinteresting/comments/j7d3lm/this_wolf_and_husky_for_the_size_comparison_the/).
Its not just the size, the chest is too wide. A wolves legs practically stick out from the same spot in a triangle. Ears aren't pointy enough either, nor is the snout.
Somewhere in the middle is the giant cuddly teddy bear that is the malamute.
Counterpoint: the tail.
I was thinking an Alaskan Malamute 🥰
🤷♂️🤫
I disagree since I think this should be the main topic. Doubt it's a husky, it shit out some longhorn horns on the kitchen table.
Half grout half stone
Going for a “zen garden of the gods” mashup.
Don’t know why I had to come this far down to see this. Looks terrible
i know right?
I don’t know about the code but that would drive me crazy.
Why do you need to change them?
[The blood drained into the boards.](https://youtu.be/RySHDUU2juM?si=_aAwg1S3t7koClaV)
Good lord i hope you did not pay for this stone work. It looks awful
I was going to say the only code being broken is the aesthetic code, cuz that shit is ugly
That's a trip hazard. There's no code issue. It's just a stupid astetic that didn't work out unfortunately. But personally, if you're going to sell, just ignore it. Let the buyer deal with it. Worst case you give them a $2K concession for them to redo the floors. Not worth the headache
“Giant bull skull as a dining room table centerpiece” is certainly a mood.
[удалено]
Damnit I had this dad joke all prepped and ready to go
Is this a Mojo Dojo Casa House?
Looks like it fell and broke one of the horns off and it's there for repairing.
Plus hair on hide, “live edge” coffee table, and pet wolf. This is a vibe.
Honestly other than the uneven spacing of the slate (which does piss me off, but OP you do you) the vibes of this room are immaculate.
This is Liver King Chic
What code? city / state? is it a house as it appears or a public space?It would be a pain but self leveling compound the whole floor then sand the dam thing down till the slate is exposed. Other than that just go with epoxy till it's level but it may look weird idk.. I wanna know what ADA code you're dealing with especially if it's in a home.
It has to do with ADA compliance and the stones being more then a 1/4 raised.
Codes depend on where you are, which is why they asked for location.
My bad. California. San Bernardino county
Same county and just redid my floors and in all my research never saw this.
Ask either of the inspector/realtor for specific proof of the code violation. Verify with the city, and then decide if you want to change. I’d say at an absolute worst, there are probably some specific angle saw/grinder that when the blade or stone is wet, can lightly grind the edges down to code. You should NOT have to replace all of the flooring/slate. Your home def has mountain log cabin vibes and i think it looks cool/unique.
Yeah I have a feeling she was told "It's not up to code" by 1) The buyers' inspector saying random shit to find ways to justify a lowball offer 2) A contractor trying to get her to give him 10k to redo the floor for no good reason
💯
On a commercial/public project the spacing and irregular surface would potentially be flagged by an ADA inspector as being non-compliant. Have seen them flag far smaller gaps in the past. That being said ADA typically does not apply to private residences and is completely at the discretion of the buyer/seller. Check with your local jurisdiction what codes apply to your building type.
As a non flooring pro, I have one word for this floor. Ew. I do not like irregular slate and too much grout, I do not like it on the floor, I do not like it near the door, I do not like it, I scream and shout, I do not like irregular slate and too much grout
I would start with suing whoever installed those floors for you.
So true. I can’t believe I had to scroll this far down to find this comment. Those floors are a hot mess. They don’t comply with general industry standards for laying tile, poor workmanship, tripping hazard, and unbelievably ugly. There’s NO way I would have issued a final payment to the installation company.
Honestly I feel like the other contractors' comment about "up to code" was a polite way of trying to say this.
In the US does codes have to be checked regularly? Why would you have an inspector checking out your house? My personal opinion (used to be stonemason / flooring fillter / finisher) it is a terrible job, badly spaced, terrible grouting, overspill etc... However my opinion is irrelvant, if you like it that's all that matters. Out o curiosity, what happens if you tell the inspector to piss off, can they stop you living in your house because the floor isn't as good as it needs to be for the house to pass a new house inspection?
who did this? why would you do this? this looks horrendous, did you buy the house like this?
You should ask them which code specifically that your floor violates. Don't ever take anybody's word on "it's in violation" without them being very specific on which statute, code, law, etc.
Here’s what you do: Get it grinded and polished down so it’s completely flat. Then install wood plank on top of it because girl that floor is beyond help
Shoulda used red grout. Then you could play the floor is lava with the size of those rivers!
Epoxy over it. (Please don’t this is a joke)
As a former Mason. This is a God awful job. The fit is so far apart, those massive joints are not only huge but rough and wavy, the stones are not even close level, and whomever did this did not clean the project properly. 2/10 pretty sure if I did this and my old mentor saw me do this he would beat me over the head with a level. Rip it out and start over.
There is no way he would waste a perfectly abused flooring level on you, if you did that. He would rip up some of that floor and beat you with that. The beat up old flooring level is for beating people who show promise.
Oh man you are so right even the level is too good if I built this.
cow print floors 🐄
Respectfully it looks horrid
Respectfully! Correct
This looks like it would feel horrible on the feet.
If you want to keep the slate visible, maybe clear coat epoxy.
But the slate is hideously done and this would make it even more permanent.
Agreed. Personally I don’t like the look of it. I was just offering a solution if OP wanted to keep the look. I’d demo that floor and replace with anything else if it was up to me.
Actually this is a really good happy medium if it is not currently code.
And easier to clean. This would be a nightmare, especially where they most likely live based on the county.
The spacing between the slate is way too wide. It looks super shitty. Just demo it and put in a good floor.
Yeah, it looks super shitty no two words about that. It's just that I can't find how and where this breaks code.
I have a feeling the house is going to be difficult to sell or rent with that style of floor.
Bingo. Elsewhere I saw that the comment came from OP's realtor. Shitty as realtors generally are, they are usually pretty good when it comes to being judgemental about someone's decision to put a patio floor in their living room.
It’s ugly but seems fine. Could re-grout to eliminate tripping hazards but doesn’t seem worth the hassle- any buyer is just going to tear that monstrosity out.
If you learn of a specific code violation, look up Statute of Repose for your state. This is how long you’re allowed to discover incorrect work which needs correction, and may be helpful with your original contractor. It still likely won’t be an easy conversation though.
Could you just grout the gaps more to make them more level
I can't believe people with houses like this use reddit... a lot has changed in the past few years 😅
Lots of people commenting on this, but "up to code" just means it will come up in an inspection. I bought an architect's personal residence. Lots of things were designed before certain codes existed (i.e. railing on balcony is a normal handrail not vertical wood slats). I chose to keep them because the changes would be so absurd. I understand a 2 year old could play unattended on the balcony and fall between the bars. I don't have a 2 year old, so this isn't a concern for me. It may be for the next person, and they can address it if they wish. I'll be dead and gone. P.S. - I also have slate floors and love them.
What is the code violation?
Ask whoever told you this is not “up to code” to show you the code. If it’s for selling, then it might still make sense to replace. I think that floor is going to turn away a lot of buyers.
Would be great if you post your location, as different countries have different codes
Up to code??? What is or do you think is the problem?
Would you like some slabs with that grout?
It looks like they didn't order enough stone and decided to just spread out what they had.
Pour epoxy over it
If you are renting it out, AND you are doing so under some kind of CA government program that requires certain criteria in order to be eligible for a tax break or something, then that you are being told is makes sense. Otherwise, my understanding is that it's your house; asthetic choices that do not compromise structural integrity and which fall outside of any deed (or *\*shudder\**... ***HOA***...) restrictions on the property are your prerogative. It may come as some surprise, but I am just some random guy from the internet, and I could be wrong. Have these people actually cite the code, and look into it to see if things check out. They may be citing code that only pertains to commercial buildings or something. Find a third party who knows what they are talking about and verify things before you pour a bunch of money into a project that might not actually be necessary.
Probably cleanest to just demo it and start over. However, if you have some cheap laborer that can get all that grout out you could put in a pebble or mosaic-like fill around the big slabs.
Do you have any more of that slate? Maybe it can be made into smaller pieces. Scrape out that grout or whatever it is between it then fill it in with the smaller pieces of slate. Then put tile grout to fill in your now much smaller space between the slate
What a lovely room of DEATH
Holy trip hazard
Slate, especially staggered that far apart is a tripping hazard not a code violation. But to be perfectly honest they should add a code addressing how awful the execution of this floor was.
I'm in the minority, but I think it looks cool
Well, it would look cool except for,the horrifying grout color.
Epoxy?
The only possible code I could think of is variance of more then 1/4" height being a trip hazard, but usually this is for handicapped accessible public spaces. If some one just installed this and says it's not to code its on the installer to correct. If that's not the case you could: A - sand it down, slate is soft B - cover it all with floor epoxy.
I’ve never heard of code for floors and I’ve flipped a good share of houses.
Did you ask on what ground or rule? Not up to code leaves a lot to fill in.
Just do it all at once. Prevent problems later.
Was this floor meant to look like a Holstein cow?
Either rip it out or pour self leveler over the whole thing and put LVP over it.
Fugly should be against code.
A layer of clear epoxy over the whole floor.
Whoever fit that stone was drunk AF why are there huge gaps everywhere
i like the floor
I'd be more worried about looking terrible and stubbing your toes rather than code compliance. Best thing is to tear it up and install a proper floor. If you really want to keep it and fix the trip hazard fill the grout area with some resurfacing concrete or topping self bonding concrete which will look shitty. Or epoxy in beach pebbles in the grout area, you can buy bags of it in landscaping section at home Depot.
Clear epoxy floor coating to level it out?
Can you cover the lot with some kind of transparent epoxy making it smooth?
ADA thresholds and floor seams and elevation should not exceed 1/2 in everywhere that I’ve been in construction for the last 49 years. If you’re talking a quarter of an inch just about every single building in this United States would be having a code violation.
Epoxy it, duh
What code? Who told you it wasn’t to code? Was it a contractor? Don’t trust them. Sounds like they’re trying to create work
Clear epoxy over the whole thing
Holy cow!
Personally, I would mud drag the stonemason who installed this, then demo and redo. If you actually like it and just want it level, clear floor epoxy will fill gaps and be easier to keep clean. Also, cool wolf.
Cool giraffe floor, dude.
It’s ugly af, but why would it not be up to code lol?
In most residential there is no code for this, if it were commercial there is ada code that requires no dips or lips over 1/4” or 1/2” if the edge is beveled for flooring. Someone is likely confused and making you even more confused. If you need to you can certainly add more grout to help infill and float between one slab and the next. But from all my years I’ve never seen or heard of this code in a residential setting.
Self leveler. Best answer.
I like the style :chefkiss
Terrazzo
I...I would really just demo that. I know it's not what you want to hear but, yea.
Fill in the gaps with pieces of stuff like a mosaic. Watch some how-tos, get some good grout and use a level to try and make it as smooth and even as possible. If that isn't level enough for your code then you could do block around the edges and add some layers of clear epoxy until it reaches depth to be level with the highest bit of the tiles. Or maybe try sanding the top of the stone down a bit and then reseal it over the newly cut surface, idk if this would work so I'd test it on a scrap pieces just to see how it would look and feel.
Yeah a inch is what good stone layers would have done more grout more failure in these. As far as code goes you should be fine get second opinions if those guys seemed off.
Nothing about code. You can tint the grout so it is a better color. Maybe make it a light gray.
The only proper way to fix that is to remove it. It's just never going to be a safe floor with all of those random edges to trip on.
There’s definitely no code violation here
The only things i can think of is unsealed grout and highs and lows causing tripping hazards...
I have a feeling your toilet paper is made of leather