Entryway Systems

Hi Lara,

There was similar question in LEED Interpretation ID#li-10252. Despite this LEED Interpretation is not based on the same LEED version nor rating system as in your question, you can consider the following answer from the rulling given, as below:

"The intent for the entryway system (grilles, grates, walk-off mats) is to capture dirt and dust. An exception to the 10 ft length and/or indoor location is acceptable provided your alternative solution meets this intent and is thoroughly justified. Applicable Internationally."

We hope this helps.

Interesting question. I always entryway systems as interior to the building, particularly the walk-off mats. Grates and grilles might be applicable to the exterior of the building, but mats on the exterior of a building are very likely to accumulate dust and dirt from the outdoors and could be just as likely to carry that indoors and having no mats.

Yes, we've seen many installations with a combination of exterior grates or grilles - typically under a building overhang or awning - and interior mats or grilles that add up to the required 10' path of travel. 

A vestibule with a grille or mat can also be part of that entry path of travel. 

I agree with David's post, and have done this type of combination on a few past projects. It is my understanding that GBCI will require oudoor entryway systems to be under cover. 

Hi, does the previous v2009 ruling still apply to V4 that the first 3ft of the 10ft must be permanent but the remaining feet can be walk-off/rollup mats if they are serviced weekly? or based on the new v4 wording can the 10 feet be made up of all roll-up mats? Thank you!

Hi Lara!

I asked the same to GBCI. Here's their reply, "Entryway systems do not necessarily have to be located indoors in LEED v4. It is acceptable for the entryway system to be located fully or partially outdoors, as long as it is continuous and at least 10 feet (3 meters) long in the primary direction of travel. The selected product should also be appropriate for the project’s climate. If placing outdoors, the team must also describe the maintenance policies for outdoor systems which would have higher exposure to dirt, dust and contaminants. Also, if providing roll out mats, the team should also evaluate the maintenance schedule. Permanent entryway systems are required to be maintained at least on a weekly basis, although the team can choose more frequent maintenance if needed."

Do wheelchair ramps at main entrances also need to include the entryway system? 

Hi Cindy,

The requirement is not applicable to the means of getting to/from the entrance (i.e. stairs vs ramp vs flat walkway) but applies to the entrance area, itself. For most projects, that would be just inside the door(s), or in some cases as described above, and inside/outside combo provided the outside portion is protected from the elements. If the ramp happens to be part of the area that makes up the 10' of required distance, then yes, it would need to extend appropriately.

Thanks for your clarification Emily. Yes, this wheelchair ramp is inside the building entrance. A portion of the entrance starts with a 10' landing followed by steps down to a lower elevation. The ramp on the left starts about 4' inside the doors and recesses down to the same level but much longer to meet ADA. So I'm understanting the 10' entryway system requirement would pertain to the ramp too.