Now more than ever, safety is a top concern for many people around the world. And when it comes to staying safe, that also includes your home. For instance, parents with young children install gates and outlet covers to prevent falls and shocks. Meanwhile, elderly homeowners add bars to their showers and non-slip grips to their area rugs, to prevent slips, falls, and other accidents. And people of all ages want to make sure that their home improvement projects are safe, from the installation process to the materials being used.
If you have ever engaged in a major home improvement project, then you are well aware of the need to obtain permits and building inspections, to ensure that your renovation is safe for all parties involved. But it’s not just the inside of your home that needs to be safe. Exterior projects require permits, and codes need to be followed on these jobs as well. In fact, when it comes to roof renovations, home building codes are extremely important standards. That have been put into place to guarantee that the roof is safe for you and your family.
Roof Building Codes
The International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) are just two home building codes that detail guidance and requirements for proper roof installation. According to FEMA, the IBC and IRC “provide requirements for roof coverings commonly used on high-sloped roofs, and for roof coverings typically used for low-slope applications. Both codes also contain requirements for roof decks, underlayment, flashing, structural performance, and materials and testing criteria. Requirements for roof coverings installed in high-wind areas (i.e., where the basic wind speed is 110 mph or greater) are provided. Further, both codes contain provisions for re-roofing existing buildings.” (Source: FEMA.gov)
As you can see, roof building codes are in place for good reason. They are not meant to present the homeowner with bureaucracy and red tape. Instead, these codes provide guidelines for the proper installation of a roof, while taking into account one’s geographic area, roof style, etc.
Unfortunately, there will always be some people who attempt to bypass codes, inspections, and permits. Sometimes, they do this to avoid having to submit paperwork or pay fees. At other times, the codes are not followed. But it might be a complete oversight on the part of the contractor or homeowner. In fact, roof building codes can become complex, and noncompliance is not as uncommon as you may think.
Noncompliance and Roof Building Codes
In 2018, the International Association of Home Builders conducted a survey and then released a report of its findings related to noncompliance. This report indicated the following prevalence of noncompliance issues:
- Absence or incorrect type of underlayment (34%)
- Overdriving nails through shingles (29%)
- Improper materials (14%)
Source: International Code Council: National Association of Home Builder’s Noncompliance Survey Report, 2018
The Consequences of Not Following Home Building Codes
When you think about the aforementioned examples of noncompliance, consider the consequences that may result:
• Safety Issues
If proper code isn’t followed, it is quite possible that the roof could become a danger to the homeowner and others. For example, what if the roof shingles are prone to blowing off during a storm? This can cause irreparable damage to property and people. Or what if the decking (otherwise known as the sheathing) could not support heavy roofing materials? A collapsed roof could injure or kill the home’s inhabitants.
• Leaks and Water Damage
Leaks and water damage due to shoddy workmanship or poor-quality materials can create even larger problems for the homeowner over time. From the need to file homeowners insurance claims, to costly out of pocket expenses, a roof that hasn’t been built to code might seem like a cheaper option in the short-term . . . but it will actually cost more in the long run.
• Costly Fines
Receiving a citation is a possible consequence for not following roof building codes. And that can add up to costly fines and court appearances. For example, In San Francisco’s informational pamphlet on the Code Enforcement Process. They explain that “a citation will require the payment of a bail fee, and/or the appearance at a hearing before the Municipal Court of the City and County of San Francisco.” It bears repeating: cutting corners in the area of home building codes isn’t the best idea. As it can result in costs that far exceed the amount of money you were trying to save in the first place.
Mid-Atlantic Remodeling Company: Your Solution for Roofing That Follows Home Building Code Requirements
Mid-Atlantic Remodeling Company understands the importance of building codes. Our Maryland roofing contractors not only stay up to date on the codes that apply to your home. But they also understand the requirements at the local and state level. Allow our professional, knowledgeable staff to take the worry out of the roof replacement process. By using only the best materials, and with a 50-year warranty, you can rest assured that your new roof will adhere to code. Best of all, thanks to our skilled contractors, your roof will last.
Our satisfied customers can attest to our workmanship, quality, and affordability when it comes to any of your roofing needs. Call Mid-Atlantic Remodeling Company today at (410) 918-0563 or visit us at https://www.midatlanticremodelingco.com/. We’d love to help you with your roof replacement or home renovation
