Structural Design for Addition of Side Entrance – Markham
Parsways Inc. provided structural design services for a new side entrance at an existing 2-storey detached dwelling in Markham, Ontario. The scope included wall opening, lintel design, exterior stairs, guardrails, and concrete footing details.
The design was prepared in accordance with the Ontario Building Code (OBC) and applicable CSA standards, forming part of a building permit submission package.
Location: Markham, Ontario
Completion: November 2024
Sector: Residential
1. The Challenge
The project involved creating a new exterior side entrance within an existing load-bearing exterior wall.
Wall Opening in Existing Structure:
A new door opening required removal of wall framing while maintaining support for point loads from above.
Integration with Existing Foundation:
The entrance configuration introduced new stairs and landing adjacent to the existing concrete foundation wall.
Code-Compliant Guards and Exterior Works:
The exterior stair and guardrail system had to meet OBC Section 9.8 dimensional and safety requirements.
2. The Engineering Solution
A coordinated structural design was developed to support the new opening and exterior access elements.
a) Lintel and Framing Design:
Specified a LVL lintel with full-height king studs and jack studs to transfer loads safely around the opening.
b) Stair and Footing Design:
Designed a reinforced concrete footing with top and bottom reinforcement and granular base preparation.
c) Guardrail and Anchorage Details:
Detailed aluminum guardrails with anchored posts and specified embedment and spacing in compliance with OBC 2012 and SB7.
3. The Outcome
The project resulted in a stamped, permit-ready structural drawing package accepted for municipal submission in Markham. The design provided clear sequencing for wall removal and shoring, ensured proper load transfer at the new opening, and delivered a stable exterior stair and guard system compliant with the Ontario Building Code and CSA structural standards.