To construct or remodel a bathroom in Florida, it’s essential to comply with the Florida Building Code (FBC), which sets standards to ensure safety and functionality. Here are some key requirements:
1. Wall insulation:
- The FBC specifies minimum thermal resistance values (R-value) for exterior walls.
- For Florida's climate zones, an R-value of 13 is generally required for exterior walls.
- Interior walls in a bathroom typically do not require thermal insulation but may need acoustic insulation to reduce sound transmission.
2. Drywall installation:
- Type of drywall: In wet areas such as bathrooms, moisture-resistant drywall (commonly called "green board") or cement board is recommended, particularly in shower areas.
- Fastening: Screws must be spaced a maximum of 12 inches (30 cm) apart along the edges and every 16 inches (40 cm) in the field of the panel.
3. Showerhead height:
- While the FBC does not specify an exact height, the standard practice is to install the showerhead between 72 and 80 inches (183–203 cm) from the finished floor of the shower.
4. Toilet location:
- Lateral clearance: There must be at least 15 inches (38 cm) from the center of the toilet to any adjacent wall or fixture.
- Front clearance: A minimum of 21 inches (53 cm) of clear space is required from the front edge of the toilet to any obstacle or wall in front.
5. Ventilation:
- Bathrooms must have adequate ventilation.
- If there is no operable window, an exhaust fan with a minimum capacity of 50 CFM (cubic feet per minute) must be installed.
6. Height of switches and outlets:
- Switches: Must be installed at a height between 48 and 52 inches (122–132 cm) from the finished floor.
- Outlets (receptacles): Must be at least 15 inches (38 cm) above the finished floor and must have GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection in wet areas.
7. Wall finishes in shower or bathtub areas:
- Walls must be finished with waterproof materials, such as ceramic tiles, up to a minimum height of 72 inches (183 cm) from the floor of the shower or bathtub.
8. Floor slope in shower areas:
- The floor must have an adequate slope, typically between 1/4 and 1/2 inch per foot (2–4%) toward the drain, to prevent water pooling.
