Connecticut to develop new code standards for resiliency

Connecticut’s Governor Dannel Malloy has directed state agencies to develop new building code standards that will better protect residential and commercial structures from damage caused by flooding and high winds.

The governor’s office said in a statement that the action is being taken due to the expectation of more frequent and severe weather events as a result of global warming. The state’s Department of Administrative Services (DAS), the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), and the Insurance Department (CID) will work with the State Building Inspector to ensure that the next revision to the state building code contains standards to improve resiliency of new and renovated homes and buildings.

“Over the past several years, revisions to the state the building code have incorporated higher energy efficiency standards to help reduce demand for electricity, heat, and water,” Malloy said. “We believe it is now time to strengthen building codes to help protect buildings from damage caused by the high winds and flooding that come with severe weather conditions. Experts say that every dollar invested in more resilient construction can save $4 in insurance claims, which is a significant return on investment.”

Among the measure that will be examined, are:

• Requirement to seal seams in the roof deck to eliminate or reduce the volume of water that can seep in if shingles are blown off in a storm
• Stronger tie-down of roofs to the building structure and gable end vents
• Require impact resistant glass in areas of state subject to high winds