It’s officially the start of fall, folks, and you know what that means: A quick commercial energy code wrap-up. Here’s a short-and-sweet update on what’s been happening around the country.
Also, are you attending METALCON? Join me for a free AIA-accredited course on Thursday, October 13th at 1pm. Register to receive 1 AIA LU/HSW and/or a certificate of completion.
States Adopt IECC 2021/ASHRAE 90.1-2019
The following states have adopted the newest energy code cycle, IECC 2021/ASHRAE 90.1-2019:
- Massachusetts
- Nevada*
- Oregon
- Vermont
- Washington
*Pursuant to NRS 701.220, the Nevada Governor’s Office of Energy (GOE) is required to adopt the most recently published version of the IECC on a triennial basis. However, each state municipality has its own building department and may adopt a different code. Currently, the majority have adopted IECC 2018. Check this map for Nevada’s local code adoption status.
My last post covered the important updates in the latest code cycle, so if your commercial projects are located in the states listed above, you’ll want to go back and familiarize yourself with the key changes in the IECC 2021/ASHRAE 90.1-2019 energy code cycle.
States Adopt IECC 2018/ASHRAE 90.1-2016
Additionally, Pennsylvania recently adopted IECC 2018/ASHRAE 90.1-2016, and Ohio is set to adopt ‘18/’16 sometime in the future. This is quite a jump from the current governing code cycle, IECC 2012/ASHRAE 90.1-2010. Ohio-based contractors will see some significant building envelope changes, such as the use of high-R insulation systems and air barriers. If you haven’t used Liner Systems (Ls) or Filled Cavity/Long Tab Banded Systems (FC) in the past, you will need to start using them. Both options fulfill the metal building insulation requirements; it’s just a matter of preference.
Misc. Updates
Multiple jurisdictions in Arizona have updated codes; the city of Tucson and Pinal County have made the switch to ‘18/’16, with most other major municipalities following suit. Remember, Arizona is a home-rule state, which means it does not adopt a statewide energy code; instead, each municipality sets its own building code. Historically, Arizona has always deferred to local governments for commercial energy code adoption.
California adopted its own building code, Title 24, which is modeled after IECC 2021/ASHRAE 90.1-2019. The California Energy Commission updates its code every three years. Officially titled, “The Building Energy Efficiency Standards”, California’s 2022 cycle will be effective January 2023.
Join Me at METALCON: Free AIA-Accredited Course on Air Barriers in Metal Buildings October 13th at 1pm
Per IECC and ASHRAE, air barriers are a mandatory component of metal buildings today. However, much confusion surrounds this topic; can a vapor retarder be used as an air barrier? Just what are the air barrier requirements in the last few code cycles? I’m breaking everything down in a free one-hour AIA-accredited course on air barriers for metal buildings. Join me at METALCON on October 13th at 1pm for a primer on all things air barriers. AIA members can earn 1 AIA LU/HSW, non-AIA members can receive a certificate of completion. Register for free here. Seating is limited, and spots are expected to go quickly. Looking forward to seeing everyone.