Residential Code Update
We’re getting a new Residential Building Code and Energy Code this year… maybe.
Technically, the Michigan government is supposed to adopt a new Residential Building Code every three years. Well… we’re still working under the 2015 code. There have certainly been some hurdles in the last 10 years, and there are some more coming for the next code update.
2021 Residential Code & 2021 Energy Code
The Michigan Legislature has chosen the 2021 edition from the International Code Council for our next code update, and intend for it to take effect later this summer.
There are likely going to be some significant changes to the minimum building standards we all have to work within on residential projects, but we don’t yet know which the state is adopting/rejecting.
Each state reviews the code and makes its own modifications before ratifying and printing the new code. We don’t get to see their changes until it is finalized and in print.
Here is where it will get complicated.
In the interest of builders and home-owners, the Home Builders Association of Michigan has been working for the 2024 Residential Building Code to be adopted instead.
As noted in the above memo, and adjacent memo from the HBA of Michigan, the intent is for us to get a new code at the end of August. But the HBA is still working to do what it can to ensure if the code does get adopted, it is done so legally.
Why the push-back?
There are some sweeping changes in the International Code Council’s 2021 code, including the change from the minimum insulation in roof assemblies from the current R-38 to the new R-60.
This won’t just change the amount of insulation, this will change how buildings are constructed. That is just one change, but there are more. Currently, in the 2015 code, structures are viewed as an assembly. So, the overall performance of the structure is what is important, and how the code is enforced.
However, the 2021 code is what is described as prescriptive. Meaning, whatever the minimum is listed for each part of the house, is the rule.
This gets tricky some times, especially in renovations. Existing homes weren’t necessarily built for new codes; the roof structure may not be big enough to hold enough insulation to meet code, for instance. The 2015 code accommodates this by taking into account other parts of the home that may exceed the code in performance, to compensate for an area that underperforms.
The 2021 code doesn’t account for overall performance. So, in the above example: if you open the roof assembly, you have to bring it up to code, period. If you can’t fit enough insulation there, then you need to add to the structure so that you can.
Theory vs. Reality
The updates to the code are meant to push the direction of homes into one of higher quality, greater performance, and longer life-spans. Ideally, this makes sense.
Mandates of code have a tendency to mandate cost.
The HBA would like to see people be able to have more flexibility in modifying their homes, and building their homes, to protect an industry that already is under the spotlight for rising costs.
The 2024 code is more forgiving, like the 2015 code. And… the 2021 code is already 4 years old.
@ Principle Homes
The preferred standards and practices of Principle Homes tend to exceed the current 2015 code; our approach of building enduring structures pulls us in that direction. Staying current with the status of these regulatory changes, and up-to-date on developments in building science is part of who we are and what we do.
Regardless of our preferences, our process is built for risk mitigation. And part of that is keeping everyone informed on the parameters we must work within.