The new International Building Code now allows for the use of weather-resistive barriers above 40 feet high.
Code restrictions had been designed to limit the use of combustible materials that might propagate flames. In the 2015 update, however, exceptions are allowed that recognize that in certain circumstances a weather-resistive barrier by itself would be a negligible contributor to the spread of flames.
This change should result in an energy efficiency boost in cases where builders have had to transition to less efficient methods of weather sealing above 40 feet. Weather-resistive barriers are now allowed in walls in which the water-resistive barrier is the only combustible component and the exterior wall has a fire-resistant wall covering of brick, concrete, stone, terracotta, stucco, or steel.
The material can also be used in walls in which the water-resistive barrier is the only combustible component and the water-resistive barrier has certain heat, flame spread, and smoke properties in accordance with ASTM E 1354 and ASTM E84 or UL723.
Related Stories
| Jun 28, 2012
Factory worker deaths in Italy raise questions on building codes after earthquakes
Italian officials are questioning seismic building standards and inspection procedures in the aftermath of two damaging earthquakes.
| Jun 21, 2012
Brazilian engineering/construction firm Odebrecht sues Florida over ban on companies doing business in Cuba
Odebrecht Construction Inc., a Brazilian engineering and construction company, is suing the State of Florida over a new law that bans governments from hiring companies with business ties to Cuba.
| Jun 21, 2012
String of shattered glass balcony panels prompts call for code reform in Ontario
Since last summer, glass balconies have shattered at 13 different buildings in Toronto.
| Jun 21, 2012
California adds window film to building code
California is the first state to add window film into its building code. Window film, a polymer material, offers cost-effective energy savings.
| Jun 21, 2012
New ISO standard to improve environmental management of concrete
A new ISO standard will help the construction industry better manage the environmental impacts of concrete.
| Jun 21, 2012
On net-zero projects, Building Teams will be held accountable for energy-efficiency performance
The building team will be held accountable for how net-zero energy buildings perform two, five, and maybe ten years after completion.
| Jun 14, 2012
USGBC co-founder launches rating system for building product manufacturers
U.S. Green Building Council co-founder David Gottfried’s new venture, Regenerative Ventures, has established a rating system for building product manufacturers.
| Jun 14, 2012
Green standard set for single-ply roofing membrane
A sustainability standard has been established for single-ply roofing membranes used on commercial buildings.
