“Just do what the inspector says” is often the approach to following building code in our industry and it’s no wonder why — building codes are complex! Building code is a term that is both specific and general. Specifically, it addresses structural and architectural requirements. Generally, it encompasses the primary trade codes of plumbing, mechanical, and electrical. Energy codes also fall under the general umbrella of building codes. But under the specific purpose of enabling effective use and conservation of energy, there are an assortment of other codes, standards, programs, and certifications. Making sense of all this is a full-day event, so here’s an introduction to the subject and an invitation to learn more. 

Stretch codes are a mechanism for an authority to adopt a specific edition of energy code, while including energy efficiency enhancements of the next, often unpublished, edition. It’s like adopting an updated version of the code before it’s available for adoption. This concept is unique to energy codes, because energy codes are rapidly changing in response to our society’s expectations and innovations.

Though many home builders feel at the mercy of the ever-changing and increasingly stringent energy codes, government codes, and stretch codes, in many ways that’s a choice. A choice to be pulled by the movement of energy efficiency, rather than take a hold of it and lead it for yourself and your client. Understanding the modern energy code and how it is adopted and adapted into your state and/or local government code reveals the many designs, products, and building envelope assemblies that codes support and allow. Knowing these choices not only , offers you confidence to explore ENERGY STAR certified products and programs that can provide your client confidence in the performance of their new home, but also offers you direct financial incentive when April 15th comes around again.