When you need a new roof, there are many decisions to be made. Surprisingly, the roof building codes in your area will often help you make them.
Why Roof Building Codes?
Municipal building codes are regulations and standards established by local government authorities. They exist for various reasons, with the number one being safety. Governments want to ensure that the structures in their area are safe for public use. Substandard construction practices can lead to accidents, injuries, fatalities, or even fire and flood. Roof building codes also ensure healthy conditions in the structure, including proper ventilation. Other reasons for building codes are to improve environmental sustainability and energy efficiency, accessibility for disabled people, maintenance of quality standards and high property values, reduction of liability, planning and zoning, emergency response, and adaptation to local conditions.
Often, the topic of the local roof building codes will arise during the planning process with your roofing company. For example, if you want to add more vents to your attic during the roofing project, your contractor should be able to tell you what local roof building codes dictate.
Ultimately, it is the responsibility of your roofing professional to know the local roof building codes before they begin work on your home. They must comply with all municipal and other building codes in their respective areas or risk fines from the governing communities.
Building Codes and Roofing Projects
Roof building codes differ from one jurisdiction to another. It is your roofing company’s responsibility to ensure they comply with all roof building codes and acquire the proper necessary permits to do a roof repair or replacement. A reputable roofing company will know how to do this for your area.
With roof building codes, some areas, in particular, may influence the decisions you make in planning your roofing project. Here are the main ones.
Roofing materials. Some towns and villages may have roof building codes that specify the types of roofing materials allowed in their jurisdiction. There may be restrictions on certain roofing materials for aesthetic or fire safety reasons, or municipalities may require the use of environmentally conscious roofing materials. For example, Pro-Home Services offers environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional shingles and shakes. Also, your roofing company can help you check your homeowner’s association rules for color selection and material as well.
Roof pitch. Roof building codes may dictate the minimum or maximum allowable roof pitch for different roofing materials. Your roofer will know how to handle your specific roof pitch and any restrictions for required roofing materials.
Wind resistance. Especially in storm-prone areas, roof building codes often include requirements for the wind resistance of roofing materials and installation methods. This is especially common in areas typically hit by hurricanes.
Snow load. Roof building codes may specify design requirements for handling snow loads in regions with heavy snowfall. The Chicago area requires strong roofs to withstand snow cover.
Ventilation. Roofers should ensure proper attic and roof ventilation in compliance with local roof building codes. Proper ventilation prevents moisture buildup and extends the life of the roof. Regulations regarding ventilation are typically based on the area you want ventilated and may have requirements for the placement and number of vents to add to your attic space.
Inspections
Roofers understand that their work can be subject to local building inspectors at any time to ensure compliance with roofing building codes and regulations. Municipalities rarely have the resources to send inspectors onsite, but homeowners may be subject to other types of inspections later, such as real estate inspections. A potential buyer’s real estate inspector would easily spot a roofing project that was done with disregard to local roof building codes.
Homeowners who hire established roofing companies need never be concerned about local roof building codes, but don’t hesitate to ask your contractor about them if you are curious. Your roofing company should know the local roof building codes and the actions they plan to take to comply with them.
Roofers who work closely with local building officials, architects, and engineers to understand and adhere to their area’s specific codes and regulations should never jeopardize your project. Failure to comply with local building codes can result in fines, delays, and potential safety issues. A reputable roofing company will also stay updated and abreast of changing roof building codes for the welfare of its customers.
If you are looking to replace or repair your roof in the near future, Pro Home Services would like to help. Contact us for a free, onsite inspection of your roof at 630-790-0800.
