Early this year, Canada and several U.S. states enacted new regulations eliminating the use of blowing agents containing hydrofluorocarbons with high global warming potential.
The regulations apply to extruded polystyrene insulation and other closed-cell foam insulations that use HFC blowing agents. This material is used in low-slope roof systems to support thermal performance, provide moisture control, and deliver compressive strength.
The new HFC regulations are being implemented on a state-by-state basis and are currently effective in California, Colorado, New Jersey, New York, Vermont, and Washington. Delaware, Maryland, and Massachusetts have finalized similar regulations.
The regulations generally prevent the sale of non-complying products into a state and allow a grace period for sales of existing materials after which non-compliant products cannot be sold. The new regulations have hastened the pace of innovation for manufacturers to develop blowing agents with less global warming potential.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jan 4, 2019
Canada’s National Building Code will include climate change obligations
New durability requirements for new buildings in the works.
Codes and Standards | Jan 4, 2019
LEED v4.1 beta registration begins in January
First releases are O+M, BD+C, and ID+C.
Codes and Standards | Jan 3, 2019
U.S. Appeals Court says general contractors can be cited for subcontractor violations
Ruling will prompt review of OSH decision that said GCs cannot be held liable for subs’ violations.
Codes and Standards | Jan 3, 2019
Tall mass timber code changes receive final approval
New provisions to be included in the 2021 International Building Code.
Codes and Standards | Jan 2, 2019
ASHRAE’s Low-Rise Residential Buildings standard update now available
Performance measures are at least 50% more efficient than 2006 IECC.
Codes and Standards | Jan 2, 2019
Study compares labor hours for various low-slope roofing options
Type of roof covering, project parameters, tool management, and crew efficiency all impact profitability.
Codes and Standards | Dec 20, 2018
New York’s ‘Scaffold Law’ under fire for driving up project costs
Lawmakers under pressure to reform law that makes contractors 100% liable for work-site injuries.
Codes and Standards | Dec 19, 2018
Guidance for water utilities on indoor recycled water use released
Provides recommended ranges on 13 different parameters of water quality.
Codes and Standards | Dec 18, 2018
Development in Africa, Asia, and uptake in air conditioning will require more efficient buildings
Dramatic action will be needed for global building sector to cut carbon in line with international agreements.
Codes and Standards | Dec 14, 2018
Emissions for buildings and construction have peaked, UN says
Greener buildings have led to leveling off of GHGs.