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As previously reported, legislation went into effect in October of 2007 which significantly increased the complexity and cost of re-roofing a residential structure. The stated goal of this legislation was to strengthen existing site-built, single family residential structures to resist hurricanes. However, the legislation drafted and passed into law not only conflicted with Florida’s Building Code, it also conflicted with laws governing construction within the State of Florida.
For this reason, Florida’s Building Commission (the authority charged with promulgating codes) has undertaken attempts to revise the legislation and eliminate the conflicts. What started out as two pages of text accompanied by 10 pages of graphics (Florida Statutes § 553.884) has evolved into 14 pages of text and tables, (Rule 9B-3.0475). Nonetheless the basic intent remains and includes:
| 101.1 (a) |
Roof-decking attachment and fasteners are to be strengthened |
| 101.1 (b) |
A secondary water barrier is to be added or provided |
And, if the building that is located in the wind-borne debris region with an insured value of $300,000 or more:
| 101.2 (a) |
The roof to wall connections are to be improved (strapping is to be added) |
| 101.2 (b) |
An amount equal to a 15 percent increase in the cost of re-roofing is to be used for the roof-to-wall connection improvements |
And, if the building that is located in the wind-borne debris region with an insured value of $750,000 or more
| 101.3 |
After, July 1, 2008 any activity costing more than $50,000 and requiring a permit will also require that opening protection (shutters) be added or provided |
To review the Rule in its entirety please visit: http://www.dca.state.fl.us/fbc/thecode/
Reference_Document_Rule_Settlement_F.htm
In the interest of assisting the navigation of this document, Bracken Engineering has prepared a flow chart for reference. Please note that this chart is provided as a reference tool and does not address all of the provisions within the rule.
While none of these provisions are found within the code, they are to be enforced by the building departments throughout the State as a legislative addendum to the code. The remaining challenge for Code Officials is how are inspections to be performed or compliance to be assured, if at all?
If you would like additional information on the use of thermal imaging in the assessment of buildings, our building envelope group is ready to assist you. Please contact William Bracken at wbracken@brackenengineering.com.
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