WSR 15-16-102 PROPOSED RULES BUILDING CODE COUNCIL [Filed August 4, 2015, 10:34 a.m.]
Original Notice.
Preproposal statement of inquiry was filed as WSR 15-10-079.
Title of Rule and Other Identifying Information: Adoption and amendment of the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)/Washington State Energy Code (WSEC) (Residential), chapter 51-11R WAC.
Hearing Location(s): Fire Department Training Center, 1618 South Rebecca Street, Spokane, WA, on September 11, 2015, at 10 a.m.; and at the DES Presentation Room, 1500 Jefferson S.E., Olympia, WA 98504, on October 16, 2015, at 10 a.m.
Date of Intended Adoption: November 13, 2015.
Submit Written Comments to: Dave Kokot, Chair, State Building Code Council (SBCC), P.O. Box 41449, Olympia, WA 98504-1449, e-mail sbcc@ga.wa.gov, fax (360) 586-9088, by October 23, 2015.
Assistance for Persons with Disabilities: Contact Peggy Bryden by August 24, 2015, (360) 407-9280.
Purpose of the Proposal and Its Anticipated Effects, Including Any Changes in Existing Rules: The proposed rules adopt the 2015 edition of WSEC (Residential) with amendments to incorporate requirements from the 2015 IECC (Residential), and formatted to the 2015 IECC, to provided increased clarity and energy efficiency as required in RCW 19.27A.160.
The summary below also indicates whether the change came from a Proposed State Amendment or 2015 IECC Change. Changes which only renumber sections are not itemized. Sections that had no changes are not shown in this filing.
1. Section R101.1: Both the residential and commercial sections are now officially titled the Washington State Energy Code. (Proposed State Amendment.)
2. Existing Buildings (2015 IECC Change). Provisions for existing buildings have been removed from Section R101.4 and elsewhere in the code and relocated to a new Chapter 5.
3. Low Energy Buildings (2015 IECC Change). Section R101.5.2, Low energy buildings, was relocated as an exception to Section R402.1
4. Section R102 (2015 IECC Change). This section was retitled and reworded for consistency with other model codes.
5. Section R103 (2015 IECC Changes). "Technical reports" was added to the list of items to be submitted with the permit application in Section R103.1 so the code official can review engineering and mechanical reports. Section R103.2 was reorganized with a numbered list, and commercial items were deleted, for ease of use. Section R103.2.1 was added to require the plans indicate the air barrier and thermal barrier systems. Section R103.3 allows for the use of a special inspection service for plan review and energy code compliance. R103.4 was modified to require that any changes in the field be documented on the plans.
6. Section R104 (2015 IECC Change). The inspections section was revised to improve and enhance inspection and improve consistency with the International Existing Building Code.
7. Section R106.2 (2015 IECC Change). This section was deleted; it is redundant to Section R106.1.1.
8. Section R108 (2015 IECC Change). Editorial changes for clarity.
9. Definitions (2015 IECC Changes).
Alterations, Approved Agency, Conditioned Space and Repair were revised for consistency with the other model codes.
Circulating Hot Water System, Climate Zone, Insulated Siding, Reroofing, Roof Recover, Roof Repair and Roof Replacement are new definitions added for preexisting terms in the code.
Fenestration, Vertical Fenestration and Skylight, along with Repair are editorial changes for clarity.
Historic Building definition was moved from the body of the code to the definitions chapter.
Entrance Door was deleted as this only applies to commercial buildings.
10. Insulation Identification (2015 IECC Change). A requirement was added to Section R303.1.1 for insulated siding to be labeled with the R-value similar to other insulation products. Section R303.1.4.1 sets the rating standard for insulated siding.
11. Fenestration Rating (2015 IECC Change). An exception was added to Section R303.1.3 allowing garage doors to be rated in accordance with DASMA 105. Some garage doors cannot meet the NFRC size requirements and this will allow them to test to an equivalent standard.
12. Fenestration Rating (Proposed State Amendment). Exception 2 was added to Section R303.1.3 to allow owner-built windows as long as they met a minimum standard.
13. Compliance Options (Proposed State Amendment and 2015 IECC Change). Section R401 was reorganized into a numbered list, and the scope of the application of Section R406 was expanded to include all low-rise residential dwelling and sleeping units.
14. Energy Efficiency Certificate (2015 IECC Change). Editorial changes for clarity, allows more flexibility in the placement of the certificate.
15. Section R402.1: See item 3.
16. R-Value Computation (Proposed State Amendment). The amendment changes new language found in the 2015 IECC Section R402.1.2 regarding the R-value of insulated siding. The IECC required that the manufacturer's labeled value be reduced by R-0.6 to take into account the credit already present in the prescriptive table. The state amendment removes that language and replaces it with a default value or allows for an evaluation report supporting a higher R-value.
17. Vapor Retarder (2015 IECC Change). Model code language in Section R402.1.5 replaces a similar WSEC requirement and mirrors language adopted through emergency rule making during the last code cycle for both the IRC and IBC.
18. R-Value/U-Factor Tables (Proposed State Amendment). Editorial changes for clarity: Footnotes and values not pertinent to Washington state were deleted from the tables.
19. Ceilings with Attic Spaces (Proposed State Amendment). Editorial changes for clarity: Values not pertinent to Washington state were deleted from Section R402.2.1.
20. Access Hatches and Doors (2015 IECC Change). An exception was added to Section R402.2.4 to allow a vertical door to meet the fenestration R-values rather than meet the R-value of the surrounding surface.
21. Mass Walls (2015 IECC Change). Editorial changes for clarity.
22. Floor Insulation (2015 IECC Change). New language providing flexibility in the installation of floor insulation was added to Section R402.2.7, allowing and [an] airspace between the floor sheathing and the top of the insulation in certain applications.
23. Below-Grade Walls (Proposed State Amendment). Editorial change for clarity and consistency.
24. Replacement Fenestration, Section R402.3.6. See item 2.
25. Air Leakage Testing (Proposed State Amendment). Exceptions were added to Section R402.4.1.2 for small additions and additions tested with the existing home. This is similar to past requirements in WSEC.
26. Fireplace Doors (2015 IECC Change). Language was added to Section R402.4.2 requiring factory-built fireplaces to be tested and listed with tight-fitting doors, if provided.
27. Combustion Air Openings (2015 IECC Change). New language was added to Section R402.4.4 to specify how rooms with combustion air openings are to be sealed off from the rest of the thermal envelope to allow for better air sealing and testing.
28. Air Barrier and Insulation Installation (2015 IECC Change). Table R402.4.1.1 was revised to show air barrier criteria and insulation criteria in separate columns. Concealed fire sprinkler criterion was added to the table. The floor criterion was amended for consistency with item 22. Wall criterion was revised to provide clarity. Fireplace was removed in conjunction with item 26.
29. Maximum Fenestration U-Factor (Proposed State Amendment). Editorial changes for clarity: Values not pertinent to Washington state were deleted.
30. Programmable Thermostat (2015 IECC Change). The change in Section R403.1.1 clarifies that the requirement for programming the thermostat is the manufacturer's responsibility.
31. Hot Water Boiler Setback (2015 IECC Change). New Section R403.2 adds a requirement for controls that modulate hot water temperature in the heating system, allowing the boiler to fire less.
32. Duct Insulation (Proposed State Amendment). A requirement that ducts within a slab or on the ground be insulated with R-10 was added to Section R403.3.1.
33. Duct Sealing/Testing (2015 IECC Change). The IECC deleted duplicative language between the sealing and testing sections in R403.3. The new exception 2 to R403.3.2 was added for consistency with changes to the IMC on sealing low pressure ducts. The old exception 2 was deleted since it is a mechanical requirement, already found in both the mechanical and residential codes.
34. Mechanical Pipe Insulation (Proposed State Amendment). An exception was added to Section R403.4 to allow for 200 feet of hydronic piping to be insulated with 1/2-inch insulation.
35. Service Hot Water (2015 IECC Change). The requirements for service hot water were extensively rewritten in 2015. The section on circulation systems, R403.5.1.1, now prohibits continuously operating circulation pumps. Three new sections, R403.5.1.2, R403.5.2 and R403.5.4 were added to address, respectively, heat trace systems, demand recirculation systems and drain water heat recovery systems if these energy saving measures are employed.
36. Service Hot Water Insulation (Proposed State Amendment). Editorial changes for clarity were made to Section R403.5.3, matching the code language with existing SBCC opinions (See Interpretation No. 13-16) on the intent of the section.
37. Equipment Sizing (Proposed State Amendment). An editorial change for clarity was made to Section R403.7 for consistency with SBCC opinion (See Interpretation No. 13-09) on equipment availability and sizing.
38. Equipment Sizing (2015 IECC Change). Editorial change to Section R403.7 for clarity that installed equipment must meet the federal minimum efficiency standards.
39. Electric Resistance Heating (Proposed State Amendment). A new Section R403.7.1 was added that requires all IRC buildings heated using electric resistance zonal heating to use a ductless mini-split heat pump in the largest zone, unless the total installed heating in the dwelling is less than 2 kW.
40. Pools and Spas (2015 IECC Change). Section R403.10 was revised for consistency with the pool and spa code; standards were updated, clarifications made on switching requirements, options were added to pool covering requirements to work better with "natural" shaped pools. New Sections R403.11 and R403.12 were added to specifically address portable spas and other accessory pools and spas not covered by R403.10.
41. Lighting Equipment (Proposed State Amendment). Editorial change to Section R404.1 to improve clarity and grammar.
42. Performance-Based Compliance (Proposed State Amendment). The energy use adjustments in Section R405.3 were changed based on the additional point requirement in Option 1 of Section R406.2.
43. Performance-Based Compliance (2015 IECC Change). The documentation for showing compliance with the performance-based method, shown in Section R405.4.2 was reorganized into three sections and clarified as to how to submit a proposed design, when the inspection takes place and what analysis is necessary to show compliance.
44. Table R405.5.2(1) (2015 IECC Change). The various forms of fenestration (opaque doors, vertical fenestration, skylights, footnotes a, b) were clarified. Thermal distribution criteria for the standard reference design that was inadvertently deleted in the 2015 IECC was reinstated.
45. Thermal Distribution Systems (Proposed State Amendment). The thermal distribution criteria for both the standard and proposed design were further modified by a proposed state amendment. This affects both Table R405.5.2(1) and R405.5.2(2). The standard base-case distribution factor in Table R405.5.2(1) was increased to make the efficiencies more equitable as reflected in actual performance. Table R405.5.2(2) eliminates the separate column for hydronic systems and makes the same adjustment as was made in Table R405.5.2(1). The footnotes in R405.5.2(2) were clarified.
46. Additional Energy Efficiency Requirements (Proposed State Amendment). Section R406 was expanded to include all low-rise residential dwelling and sleeping units, not just IRC buildings. Two options are presented regarding the increased number of points required. The table changes are the same in both options. The first option shows an across the board increase of two credits per dwelling unit, reflecting the increase in efficiency needed to stay on track to meeting the goals of RCW 19.27A.160, as stated in the SBCC 2012 Washington State Energy Code Legislative Report. Option 2 presents a minority report which presents a proportional increase across the three sizes of dwelling units, designed to mitigate the costs of the across the board increase.
47. Energy Credit Table (Proposed State Amendment). In Table R406.2:
(a) Editorial changes were made to the various envelope options, and a new envelope option for triple pane windows was added.
(b) The air leakage Option 2a was adjusted to specify the leakage rate of 3.0 to reflect results typically submitted for this option and the credits given based on energy savings.
(c) The credit for efficiency HVAC equipment in Option 3a was adjusted from 0.5 to 1.0 credit based on the lowering of the federal standards and the lowering of the typical base case furnace. The efficiency was also lowered in response to the federal action.
(d) The efficiency for an air source heat pump in Option 3b was increased based on new federal requirements and the efficiency threshold generally required by utility incentive programs.
(e) The credit for Option 3c, closed loop heat pumps was decreased from 2.0 to 1.5 after reevaluation of the base code energy use and the additional energy savings provided through the measure.
(f) Item 3d for ductless mini-split systems was changed editorially to match the requirements in Section R403.7.1 (See item 39, above).
(g) Item 4, high efficiency HVAC distribution system (and accompanying footnote) was revised for clarity and ease of inspection.
(h) Item 5, efficient water heating, was revised based on new federal standards that went into effect in April. The credit value of item 5b was also reduced based on reevaluation of baseline energy savings. Additionally, three new options were added: An option for central water heating in multi-family, condensing water heaters, and drain water heat recovery.
(i) Lastly, item 6 now specifies that the requirement for generation is per housing unit.
48. Existing Buildings (2015 IECC Change). As noted in item 2, above, all requirements for existing buildings were moved into a new Chapter 5 and broken out into Additions, Alterations, Repairs and Change of Use.
Reasons Supporting Proposal: RCW 19.27.031 and 19.27.074.
Statutory Authority for Adoption: RCW 19.27A.020, 19.27A.025, 19.27A.045, 19.27A.160.
Rule is not necessitated by federal law, federal or state court decision.
Agency Comments or Recommendations, if any, as to Statutory Language, Implementation, Enforcement, and Fiscal Matters: SBCC is seeking comments on the issues proposed in the rules shown below.
Name of Proponent: SBCC, governmental.
Name of Agency Personnel Responsible for Drafting and Implementation: Krista Braaksma, 1500 Jefferson S.E., P.O. Box 41449, Olympia, WA, (360) 407-9278.
A small business economic impact statement has been prepared under chapter 19.85 RCW.
Small Business Economic Impact Statement
Description: SBCC is filing a proposed rule to adopt the updated 2015 edition of the IECC with state amendments, known as the 2015 WSEC: Chapters 51-11R and 51-11C WAC. Since 1985 SBCC has been responsible to update new editions of the building code per RCW 19.27.074.
The administrative compliance requirements are under the authority of the local government. RCW 19.27.050. Enforcement activities including permit issuance, plan review and approval, and inspections occur at the local level. Requirements for construction document submittal and other reporting requirements are determined by the local jurisdiction and are consistent with previously established policies. The proposed amendments to chapter 51-51 WAC include specific technical requirements for building construction to be consistent with national standards.
WSEC is updated every three years by SBCC. The code development process conducted by the model code organization is open to all interest groups within the design and construction industry and from governmental organizations. See www.iccsafe.org for more information about the model code development process.
Professional Services: Washington has had a statewide building code in effect since 1974. The local enforcement authority having jurisdiction administers the codes through the building and/or fire departments. Administrative procedures for state building code compliance are established and will not be changed by the adoption of the update to the current building codes. Small businesses will employ the same types of professional services for the design and construction of buildings and systems to comply with the state building code.
The proposed rule updates the state building code and does not require additional equipment, supplies, labor or other services. Services needed to comply with the building code are existing within the construction industry as required by the local authority having jurisdiction.
Costs of Compliance for Businesses: SBCC accepts proposals to amend the WSEC to meet the legislative goals. The statewide code amendment proposal process is defined in chapter 51-04 WAC and the SBCC bylaws. Proposals must increase the energy efficiency in buildings. Each proponent must identify where a proposed amendment has an economic impact and must quantify costs. SBCC developed a specific set of forms for WSEC, so proponents could identify where a proposed amendment was editorial, technical or a policy change.
SBCC received one hundred fifty-four proposals to improve WSEC. The energy code technical advisory group (TAG) recommended approval of one hundred sixteen amendments as submitted or as modified. Of those, TAG identified twenty-one as editorial corrections, and eighty-seven as technical corrections. The remaining eight proposed amendments were identified by TAG as having a significant cost.
The energy code TAG and the SBCC economic workgroup determined there is a cost for compliance on businesses for the following proposed state amendments. SBCC recommended filing the proposed rule to allow input through the public hearing process. See the preliminary cost-benefit analysis of the 2015 WSEC for a detailed review of each of these amendments.
Loss of Sales or Revenue: The proposed rules make the state code for building construction consistent with national standards. Businesses with new products or updated test or design standards are recognized in the updated building code. For these businesses there will be a gain in sales and revenue.
The results of reduced energy use in buildings include avoiding the need for new power generation, reducing environmental impact, and providing local employment. The legislative findings state that energy efficiency is the cheapest, quickest, and cleanest way to meet rising energy needs, confront climate change, and boost our economy.
Cost of Compliance for Small Businesses: The majority of businesses affected by the updates to the building codes are small businesses; over ninety-five percent of those listed in the construction and related industries have under fifty employees. The costs per employee are comparable between the largest businesses and the majority of small businesses. The cost to comply with the updated codes is not a disproportionate impact on small business. Where SBCC found the cost of compliance for small businesses to be disproportionate, the proposed rule mitigates the cost. The proposed rules include a definition of small business and provide exceptions for compliance with the updated rule.
Small Businesses Involved in the Development of the Rule: SBCC conducted open public meetings of the energy code TAG, available via telephone conference bridge and over the internet, and allowed comment on every item on every agenda. The SBCC appointed over one hundred representatives of all segments of the business and construction community to serve on the TAGs.
List of Industries: Below is a list of industries required to comply with the building code.
Estimate of the Number of Jobs That Will Be Created or Lost: The adoption of the latest code edition is not expected to significantly impact the number of jobs in the construction industry. These rules are likely to be job neutral overall, i.e., they will not result in any job gains or losses. The scheduled effective date of the new edition is July 1, 2016. Building permits issued prior to that date will be vested under the 2012 Building Code. Permits issued for projects under the 2015 code edition will start with the 2017 construction season.
The construction industry has experienced growth over the period June 2014 to June 2015 (Data from Current Employment Statistics (CES)).
A copy of the statement may be obtained by contacting Tim Nogler, SBCC, P.O. Box 41449, Olympia, WA 98504-1449, phone (360) 407-9280, fax (360) 586-9088, e-mail sbcc@ga.wa.gov.
A cost-benefit analysis is required under RCW 34.05.328. A preliminary cost-benefit analysis may be obtained by contacting Tim Nogler, SBCC, P.O. Box 41449, Olympia, WA 98504-1449, phone (360) 407-9280, fax (360) 586-9088, e-mail sbcc@ga.wa.gov.
August 4, 2015
David F. Kokot
Council Chair
Chapter 51-11R WAC
STATE BUILDING CODE ADOPTION AND AMENDMENT OF THE ((2012)) 2015 EDITION OF THE INTERNATIONAL ENERGY CONSERVATION CODE, RESIDENTIAL AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-10100 Section R101—Scope and general requirements.
R101.1 Title. This code shall be known as the ((International Energy Conservation Code of THE STATE OF WASHINGTON)) Washington State Energy Code, and shall be cited as such. It is referred to herein as "this code."
R101.2 Scope. This code applies to residential buildings and the buildings sites and associated systems and equipment. This code shall be the maximum and minimum energy code for residential construction in each town, city and county.
R101.3 Intent. This code shall regulate the design and construction of buildings for the effective use and conservation of energy over the useful life of each building. This code is intended to provide flexibility to permit the use of innovative approaches and techniques to achieve this objective. This code is not intended to abridge safety, health or environmental requirements contained in other applicable codes or ordinances.
R101.4 Applicability. Where, in any specific case, different sections of this code specify different materials, methods of construction or other requirements, the most restrictive shall govern. Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific requirement shall govern.
((R101.4.1 Existing buildings. Except as specified in this chapter, this code shall not be used to require the removal, alteration or abandonment of, nor prevent the continued use and maintenance of, an existing building or building system lawfully in existence at the time of adoption of this code.
R101.4.2 Historic buildings. The building official may modify the specific requirements of this code for historic buildings and require in lieu of alternate requirements which will result in a reasonable degree of energy efficiency. This modification may be allowed for those buildings or structures that are listed in the state or national register of historic places; designated as a historic property under local or state designation law or survey; certified as a contributing resource with a national register listed or locally designated historic district; or with an opinion or certification that the property is eligible to be listed on the national or state registers of historic places either individually or as a contributing building to a historic district by the state historic preservation officer or the keeper of the national register of historic places.
R101.4.3 Additions, alterations, renovations or repairs. Additions, alterations, renovations or repairs to an existing building, building system or portion thereof shall conform to the provisions of this code as they relate to new construction without requiring the unaltered portion(s) of the existing building or building system to comply with this code. Additions, alterations, renovations or repairs shall not create an unsafe or hazardous condition or overload existing building systems. An addition shall be deemed to comply with this code if the addition alone complies or if the existing building and addition comply with this code as a single building.
The building official may approve designs of alterations or repairs which do not fully conform with all of the requirements of this code where in the opinion of the building official full compliance is physically impossible and/or economically impractical and:
1. The alteration or repair improves the energy efficiency of the building; or
2. The alteration or repair is energy efficient and is necessary for the health, safety, and welfare of the general public.
R101.4.3.1 Mechanical systems. When a space-conditioning system is altered by the installation or replacement of space-conditioning equipment (including replacement of the air handler, outdoor condensing unit of a split system air conditioner or heat pump, cooling or heating coil, or the furnace heat exchanger), the duct system that is connected to the new or replacement space-conditioning equipment shall be tested as specified in WSU RS-33. The test results shall be provided to the building official and the homeowner.
R101.4.4 Change in occupancy or use. Any space not within the scope of Section R101.2 which is converted to space that is within the scope of Section R101.2 shall be brought into full compliance with this code.
Spaces undergoing a change in occupancy that would result in an increase in demand for either fossil fuel or electrical energy shall comply with this code.
R101.4.5 Change in space conditioning. Any nonconditioned space that is altered to become conditioned space shall be required to be brought into full compliance with this code.
R101.4.6)) R101.4.1 Mixed occupancy. Where a building includes both residential and commercial occupancies, each occupancy shall be separately considered and meet the applicable provisions of the ((IECC)) WSEC - Commercial and Residential Provisions.
R101.5 Compliance. Residential buildings shall meet the provisions of ((IECC)) WSEC - Residential Provisions. Commercial buildings shall meet the provisions of ((IECC)) WSEC - Commercial Provisions.
R101.5.1 Compliance materials. The code official shall be permitted to approve specific computer software, worksheets, compliance manuals and other similar materials that meet the intent of this code.
((R101.5.2 Low energy buildings. The following buildings, or portions thereof, separated from the remainder of the building by building thermal envelope assemblies complying with this code shall be exempt from the building thermal envelope provisions of this code.
1. Those with a peak design rate of energy usage less than 3.4 Btu/h • ft2 (10.7 W/m2) or 1.0 watt/ft2 (10.7 W/m2) of floor area for space conditioning purposes.
2. Those that do not contain conditioned space.
3. Greenhouses isolated from any conditioned space and not intended for occupancy.))
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-10200 Section R102—((Alternate materials—Method of construction, design or insulating systems.)) Applicability—Duties and powers of the code official.
R102.1 ((General. This code is not intended to prevent the use of any material, method of construction, design or insulating system not specifically prescribed herein, provided that such construction, design or insulating system has been approved by the code official as meeting the intent of this code.)) Alternate materials, design and methods of construction and equipment. The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit any design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided that any such alternative has been approved. The code official shall be permitted to approve an alternative material, design or method of construction where the code official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code, and that the material, method or work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this code.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-10300 Section R103—Construction documents.
R103.1 General. Construction documents, technical report, and other supporting data shall be submitted in one or more sets with each application for a permit. The construction documents and technical reports shall be prepared by a registered design professional where required by the statutes of the jurisdiction in which the project is to be constructed. Where special conditions exist, the code official is authorized to require necessary construction documents to be prepared by a registered design professional.
R103.2 Information on construction documents. Construction documents shall be drawn to scale upon suitable material. Electronic media documents are permitted to be submitted when approved by the code official. Construction documents shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and extent of the work proposed, and show in sufficient detail pertinent data and features of the building, systems and equipment as herein governed. Details shall include, but are not limited to, the following as applicable((,)):
1. Insulation materials and their R-values((;))
2. Fenestration U-factors and SHGCs((;))
3. Area-weighted U-factor and SHGC calculations((;))
4. Mechanical system design criteria((;))
5. Mechanical and service water heating system and equipment types, sizes and efficiencies((; economizer description;))
6. Equipment and systems controls((; fan motor horsepower (hp) and controls;))
7. Duct sealing, duct and pipe insulation and location((; lighting fixture schedule with wattage and control narrative; and))
8. Air sealing details.
R103.2.1 Building thermal envelope depiction. The building's thermal envelope shall be represented on the construction documents.
R103.3 Examination of documents. The code official shall examine or cause to be examined the accompanying construction documents and shall ascertain whether the construction indicated and described is in accordance with the requirements of this code and other pertinent laws or ordinances. The code official is authorized to utilize a registered design professional or other approved entity not affiliated with the building design or construction in conducting the review of the plans and specifications for compliance with the code.
R103.3.1 Approval of construction documents. When the code official issues a permit where construction documents are required, the construction documents shall be endorsed in writing and stamped "Reviewed for Code Compliance." Such approved construction documents shall not be changed, modified or altered without authorization from the code official. Work shall be done in accordance with the approved construction documents.
One set of construction documents so reviewed shall be retained by the code official. The other set shall be returned to the applicant, kept at the site of work and shall be open to inspection by the code official or a duly authorized representative.
R103.3.2 Previous approvals. This code shall not require changes in the construction documents, construction or designated occupancy of a structure for which a lawful permit has been heretofore issued or otherwise lawfully authorized, and the construction of which has been pursued in good faith within 180 days after the effective date of this code and has not been abandoned.
R103.3.3 Phased approval. The code official shall have the authority to issue a permit for the construction of part of an energy conservation system before the construction documents for the entire system have been submitted or approved, provided adequate information and detailed statements have been filed complying with all pertinent requirements of this code. The holders of such permit shall proceed at their own risk without assurance that the permit for the entire energy conservation system will be granted.
R103.4 Amended construction documents. ((Changes made during construction that are not in compliance)) Work shall be installed in accordance with the approved construction documents, and any changes made during construction that are not in compliance with the approved construction documents shall be resubmitted for approval as an amended set of construction documents.
R103.5 Retention of construction documents. One set of approved construction documents shall be retained by the code official for a period of not less than 180 days from date of completion of the permitted work, or as required by state or local laws.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-10400 Section R104—Inspections.
R104.1 General. Construction or work for which a permit is required shall be subject to inspection by the code official or his or her designated agent, and such construction or work shall remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes until approved. It shall be the duty of the permit applicant to cause the work to remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes. Neither the code official nor the jurisdiction shall be liable for expense entailed in the removal or replacement of any material, product, system or building component required to allow inspection to validate compliance with this code.
R104.2 Required ((approvals. Work shall not be done beyond the point indicated in each successive inspection without first obtaining the approval of the code official. The code official, upon notification, shall make the requested inspections and shall either indicate the portion of the construction that is satisfactory as completed, or notify the permit holder or his or her agent wherein the same fails to comply with this code. Any portions that do not comply shall be corrected and such portion shall not be covered or concealed until authorized by the code official)) inspections. The code official or his or her designated agent, upon notification, shall make the inspections set forth in Sections R104.2.1 through R104.2.5.
R104.2.1 Footing and foundation inspection. Inspections associated with footings and foundations shall verify compliance with the code as to R-value, location, thickness, depth of burial and protection of insulation as required by the code and approved plans and specifications.
((R104.2.1 Wall insulation inspection. The building official, upon notification, shall make a wall insulation inspection in addition to those inspections required in Section R109 of the International Residential Code. This inspection shall be made after all wall and cavity insulation is in place and prior to cover.
R104.3)) R104.2.2 Framing and rough-in inspection. Inspections at framing and rough-in shall be made before application of interior finish and shall verify compliance with the code as to types of insulation and corresponding R-values and their correct location and proper installation; fenestration properties (U-factor and SHGC) and proper installation; and air leakage controls as required by the code and approved plans and specifications.
R104.2.2.1 Wall insulation inspection. The building official, upon notification, shall make a wall insulation inspection in addition to those inspections required in Section R109 of the International Residential Code. This inspection shall be made after all wall and cavity insulation is in place and prior to cover.
R104.2.3 Plumbing rough-in inspection. Inspections at plumbing rough-in shall verify compliance as required by the code and approved plans and specifications as to types of insulation and corresponding R-values and protection, required controls.
R104.2.4 Mechanical rough-in inspection. Inspections at mechanical rough-in shall verify compliance as required by the code and approved plans and specifications as to installed HVAC equipment type and size, required controls, system insulation and corresponding R-value, system air leakage control, programmable thermostats, dampers, whole-house ventilation and minimum fan efficiency.
R104.2.5 Final inspection. The building shall have a final inspection and not be occupied until approved.
((R104.4)) R104.3 Reinspection. A building shall be reinspected when determined necessary by the code official.
((R104.5)) R104.4 Approved inspection agencies. The code official is authorized to accept reports of ((approved)) third-party inspection agencies not affiliated with the building design or construction, provided such agencies ((satisfy the requirements)) are approved as to qualifications and reliability relevant to the building components and systems they are inspecting.
((R104.6)) R104.5 Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the holder of the permit or their duly authorized agent to notify the code official when work is ready for inspection. It shall be the duty of the permit holder to provide access to and means for inspections of such work that are required by this code.
((R104.7)) R104.6 Reinspection and testing. Where any work or installation does not pass an initial test or inspection, the necessary corrections shall be made so as to achieve compliance with this code. The work or installation shall then be resubmitted to the code official for inspection and testing.
((R104.8)) R104.7 Approval. After the prescribed tests and inspections indicate that the work complies in all respects with this code, a notice of approval shall be issued by the code official.
((R104.8.1)) R104.7.1 Revocation. The code official is authorized to, in writing, suspend or revoke a notice of approval issued under the provisions of this code wherever the certificate is issued in error, or on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or where it is determined that the building or structure, premise, or portion thereof is in violation of any ordinance or regulation or any of the provisions of this code.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-10600 Section R106—Referenced standards.
R106.1 Referenced codes and standards. The codes and standards referenced in this code shall be those listed in Chapter 5, and such codes and standards shall be considered as part of the requirements of this code to the prescribed extent of each such reference and as further regulated in Sections R106.1.1 and R106.1.2.
R106.1.1 Conflicts. Where differences occur between provisions of this code and referenced codes and standards, the provisions of this code shall apply.
R106.1.2 Provisions in referenced codes and standards. Where the extent of the reference to a referenced code or standard includes subject matter that is within the scope of this code, the provisions of this code, as applicable, shall take precedence over the provisions in the referenced code or standard.
R106.2 ((Conflicting requirements. Where the provisions of this code and the referenced standards conflict, the provisions of this code shall take precedence.
R106.3)) Application of references. References to chapter or section numbers, or to provisions not specifically identified by number, shall be construed to refer to such chapter, section or provision of this code.
((R106.4)) R106.3 Other laws. The provisions of this code shall not be deemed to nullify any provisions of local, state or federal law. In addition to the requirements of this code, all occupancies shall conform to the provisions included in the state building code (chapter 19.27 RCW). In case of conflicts among codes enumerated in RCW 19.27.031 (1) through (4) and this code, an earlier named code shall govern over those following. In the case of conflict between the duct sealing and insulation requirements of this code and the duct insulation requirements of Sections 603 and 604 of the International Mechanical Code, the duct insulation requirements of this code shall govern.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-10800 Section R108—Stop work order.
R108.1 Authority. Whenever the code official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner either contrary to the provisions of this code or dangerous or unsafe, the code official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
R108.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property involved, or to the owner's authorized agent, or to the person doing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order, and the conditions under which the cited work will be permitted to resume.
R108.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the code official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
R108.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be ((liable to a fine as established by the applicable governing entity)) subject to a fine as set by the applicable governing authority.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-20201 Section R202.1—A.
ABOVE-GRADE WALL. A wall enclosing conditioned space that is not a below-grade wall. This includes between-floor spandrels, peripheral edges of floors, roof and basement knee walls, dormer walls, gable end walls, walls enclosing a mansard roof and skylight shafts.
ACCESSIBLE. Admitting close approach as a result of not being guarded by locked doors, elevation or other effective means (see "Readily accessible").
ADDITION. An extension or increase in the conditioned space floor area or height of a building or structure.
ADVANCED FRAMED WALLS. Studs framed on 24-inch centers with double top plate and single bottom plate. Corners use two studs or other means of fully insulating corners, and one stud is used to support each header. Headers consist of double 2x material with R-10 insulation between the header and exterior sheathing. Interior partition wall/exterior wall intersections are fully insulated in the exterior wall. (See Standard Framing and Appendix A, of this code.)
AIR BARRIER. Material(s) assembled and joined together to provide a barrier to air leakage through the building envelope. An air barrier may be a single material or a combination of materials.
ALTERATION. Any construction, retrofit or renovation to an existing structure other than repair or addition that requires a permit. Also, a change in a building, electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system that involves an extension, addition or change to the arrangement, type or purpose of the original installation that requires a permit.
APPROVED. Approval by the code official as a result of investigation and tests conducted by him or her, or by reason of accepted principles or tests by nationally recognized organizations.
APPROVED AGENCY. An established and recognized agency regularly engaged in conducting tests or furnishing inspection services, when such agency has been approved by the code official.
AUTOMATIC. Self-acting, operating by its own mechanism when actuated by some impersonal influence, as, for example, a change in current strength, pressure, temperature or mechanical configuration (see "Manual").
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-20203 Section R202.3—C.
C-FACTOR (THERMAL CONDUCTANCE). The coefficient of heat transmission (surface to surface) through a building component or assembly, equal to the time rate of heat flow per unit area and the unit temperature difference between the warm side and cold side surfaces (Btu/h ft2 × °F) [W/(m2 × K)].
CIRCULATING HOT WATER SYSTEM. A specifically designed water distribution system where one or more pumps are operated in the service hot water piping to circulate heated water from the water-heating equipment to the fixture supply and back to the water-heating equipment.
CLIMATE ZONE. A geographical region based on climatic criteria as specified in this code.
CODE OFFICIAL. The officer or other designated authority charged with the administration and enforcement of this code, or a duly authorized representative.
COMMERCIAL BUILDING. For this code, all buildings that are not included in the definition of "Residential buildings."
CONDITIONED FLOOR AREA. The horizontal projection of the floors associated with the conditioned space.
CONDITIONED SPACE. An area ((or room within a building being heated or cooled, containing uninsulated ducts, or with a fixed opening directly into an adjacent conditioned space)), room or space that is enclosed within the building thermal envelope and that is directly or indirectly heated or cooled. Spaces are indirectly heated or cooled where they communicate through openings with conditioned spaces, where they are separated from conditioned spaces by uninsulated walls, floors or ceilings, or where they contain uninsulated ducts, piping or other sources of heating or cooling.
CONTINUOUS AIR BARRIER. A combination of materials and assemblies that restrict or prevent the passage of air through the building thermal envelope.
CONTINUOUS INSULATION (c.i.). ((Insulation)) Insulating material that is continuous across all structural members without thermal bridges other than fasteners and service openings. It is installed on the interior or exterior or is integral to any opaque surface of the building envelope.
CURTAIN WALL. Fenestration products used to create an external nonload-bearing wall that is designed to separate the exterior and interior environments.
Reviser's note: The brackets and enclosed material in the text of the above section occurred in the copy filed by the agency. Reviser's note: The brackets and enclosed material in the text of the above section occurred in the copy filed by the agency and appear in the Register pursuant to the requirements of RCW 34.08.040. AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-20205 Section R202.5—E.
ENERGY ANALYSIS. A method for estimating the annual energy use of the proposed design and standard reference design based on estimates of energy use.
ENERGY COST. The total estimated annual cost for purchased energy for the building functions regulated by this code, including applicable demand charges.
ENERGY SIMULATION TOOL. An approved software program or calculation-based methodology that projects the annual energy use of a building.
((ENTRANCE DOOR. Fenestration products used for ingress, egress and access in nonresidential buildings including, but not limited to, exterior entrances that utilize latching hardware and automatic closers and contain over 50 percent glass specifically designed to withstand heavy use and possibly abuse.))
EXTERIOR WALL. Walls including both above-grade walls and below-grade walls.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-20206 Section R202.6—F.
FENESTRATION. ((Skylights, roof windows, vertical windows (fixed or moveable), opaque doors, glazed doors, glazed block and combination opaque/glazed doors. Fenestration includes products with glass and nonglass glazing materials.)) Products classified as either vertical fenestration or skylights.
VERTICAL FENESTRATION. Windows (fixed or moveable), opaque doors, glazed doors, glazed block and combination opaque/glazed doors composed of glass or other transparent or translucent glazing materials and installed at a slope of at least 60 degrees from horizontal.
SKYLIGHT. Glass or other transparent or translucent glazing material installed with a slope of less than 60 degrees from horizontal.
FENESTRATION AREA. Total area of the fenestration measured using the rough opening, and including the glazing, sash and frame.
FENESTRATION PRODUCT, FIELD-FABRICATED. A fenestration product whose frame is made at the construction site of standard dimensional lumber or other materials that were not previously cut, or otherwise formed with the specific intention of being used to fabricate a fenestration product or exterior door. Field fabricated does not include site-built fenestration.
FENESTRATION PRODUCT, SITE-BUILT. A fenestration designed to be made up of field-glazed or field-assembled units using specific factory cut or otherwise factory-formed framing and glazing units. Examples of site-built fenestration include storefront systems, curtain walls, and atrium roof systems.
F-FACTOR. The perimeter heat loss factor for slab-on-grade floors (Btu/h × ft × °F) [W/(m × K)].
Reviser's note: The brackets and enclosed material in the text of the above section occurred in the copy filed by the agency. Reviser's note: The brackets and enclosed material in the text of the above section occurred in the copy filed by the agency and appear in the Register pursuant to the requirements of RCW 34.08.040. AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-20208 Section R202.8—H.
HEATED SLAB-ON-GRADE FLOOR. Slab-on-grade floor construction in which the heating elements, hydronic tubing, or hot air distribution system is in contact with, or placed within or under, the slab.
HIGH-EFFICACY LAMPS. Compact fluorescent lamps, T-8 or smaller diameter linear fluorescent lamps, or lamps with a minimum efficacy of:
1. 60 lumens per watt for lamps over 40 watts;
2. 50 lumens per watt for lamps over 15 watts to 40 watts; and
3. 40 lumens per watt for lamps 15 watts or less.
HISTORIC BUILDINGS. Buildings that are listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places, or designated as historic under an appropriate state or local law.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-20209 Section R202.9—I.
INFILTRATION. The uncontrolled inward air leakage into a building caused by the pressure effects of wind or the effect of differences in the indoor and outdoor air density or both.
INSULATED SIDING. A type of continuous insulation with manufacturer-installed insulating material as an integral part of the cladding product having a minimum R-value of R-2.
INSULATING SHEATHING. An insulating board with a core material having a minimum R-value of R-2.
INTEGRATED ENERGY EFFICIENCY RATIO (IEER). A single-number figure of merit expressing cooling part-load EER efficiency for unitary air-conditioning and heat pump equipment on the basis of weighted operation at various load capacities for the equipment.
INTERMEDIATE FRAMED WALLS. Studs framed on 16-inch centers with double top plate and single bottom plate. Corners use two studs or other means of fully insulating corners, and each opening is framed by two studs. Headers shall be insulated to R-10.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-20218 Section R202.18—R.
READILY ACCESSIBLE. Capable of being reached quickly for operation, renewal or inspection without requiring those to whom ready access is requisite to climb over or remove obstacles or to resort to portable ladders or access equipment (see "Accessible").
REPAIR. The reconstruction or renewal of any part of an existing building for the purpose of its maintenance or to correct damage.
REROOFING. The process of recovering or replacing an existing roof covering. See "Roof recover" and "Roof replacement."
RESIDENTIAL BUILDING. For this code, includes detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) as well as Group R-2, R-3 and R-4 buildings three stories or less in height above grade plane.
ROOF ASSEMBLY. A system designed to provide weather protection and resistance to design loads. The system consists of a roof covering and roof deck or a single component serving as both the roof covering and the roof deck. A roof assembly includes the roof covering, underlayment, roof deck, insulation, vapor retarder and interior finish.
ROOF RECOVER. The process of installing an additional roof covering over a prepared existing roof covering without removing the existing roof covering.
ROOF REPAIR. Reconstruction or renewal of any part of an existing roof for the purposes of its maintenance.
ROOF REPLACEMENT. The process of removing the existing roof covering, repairing any damaged substrate and installing a new roof covering.
R-VALUE (THERMAL RESISTANCE). The inverse of the time rate of heat flow through a body from one of its bounding surfaces to the other surface for a unit temperature difference between the two surfaces, under steady state conditions, per unit area (h • ft2 • °F/Btu) [(m2 • K)/W].
Reviser's note: The brackets and enclosed material in the text of the above section occurred in the copy filed by the agency. Reviser's note: The brackets and enclosed material in the text of the above section occurred in the copy filed by the agency and appear in the Register pursuant to the requirements of RCW 34.08.040. AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-30310 Section R303.1—Identification.
R303.1 Identification. Materials, systems and equipment shall be identified in a manner that will allow a determination of compliance with the applicable provisions of this code.
R303.1.1 Building thermal envelope insulation. An R-value identification mark shall be applied by the manufacturer to each piece of building thermal envelope insulation 12 inches (305 mm) or greater in width. Alternately, the insulation installers shall provide a certification listing the type, manufacturer and R-value of insulation installed in each element of the building thermal envelope. For blown or sprayed insulation (fiberglass and cellulose), the initial installed thickness, settled thickness, settled R-value, installed density, coverage area and number of bags installed shall be listed on the certification. For sprayed polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation, the installed thickness of the areas covered and R-value of installed thickness shall be listed on the certification. For insulated siding, the R-value shall be labeled on the product's package and shall be listed on the certification. The insulation installer shall sign, date and post the certification in a conspicuous location on the job site.
R303.1.1.1 Blown or sprayed roof/ceiling insulation. The thickness of blown-in or sprayed roof/ceiling insulation (fiberglass or cellulose) shall be written in inches (mm) on markers that are installed at least one for every 300 square feet (28 m2) throughout the attic space. The markers shall be affixed to the trusses or joists and marked with the minimum initial installed thickness with numbers a minimum of 1 inch (25 mm) in height. Each marker shall face the attic access opening. Spray polyurethane foam thickness and installed R-value shall be listed on certification provided by the insulation installer.
R303.1.2 Insulation mark installation. Insulating materials shall be installed such that the manufacturer's R-value mark is readily observable upon inspection.
R303.1.3 Fenestration product rating. U-factors of fenestration products (windows, doors and skylights) shall be determined in accordance with NFRC 100.
U-factors shall be determined by an accredited, independent laboratory, and labeled and certified by the manufacturer.
Products lacking such a labeled U-factor shall be assigned a default U-factor from Table R303.1.3(1), R303.1.3(2) or R303.1.3(4). The solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) and visible transmittance (VT) of glazed fenestration products (windows, glazed doors and skylights) shall be determined in accordance with NFRC 200 by an accredited, independent laboratory, and labeled and certified by the manufacturer. Products lacking such a labeled SHGC or VT shall be assigned a default SHGC or VT from Table R303.1.3(3).
R303.1.4 Insulation product rating. The thermal resistance (R-value) of insulation shall be determined in accordance with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission R-value rule (C.F.R. Title 16, Part 460) in units of h × ft2 × °F/Btu at a mean temperature of 75°F (24°C).
R303.1.4.1 Insulated siding. The thermal resistance (R-value) of insulated siding shall be determined in accordance with ASTM C1363. Installation for testing shall be in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40100 Section R401—General.
R401.1 Scope. This chapter applies to residential buildings.
R401.2 Compliance. Projects shall comply with ((sections identified as "mandatory" and with either sections identified as "prescriptive" or the performance approach in Section R405. In addition, one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses, as defined in Section 101.2 of the International Residential Code, shall comply with Section R406)) one of the following:
1. Sections R401 through R404.
2. Section R405 and the provisions of Sections R401 through R404 labeled "Mandatory."
In addition, dwelling units and sleeping units in a residential building shall comply with Section R406.
R401.3 Certificate (Mandatory). A permanent certificate shall be completed by the builder or registered design professional and posted on ((or within three feet of the electrical distribution panel by the builder or registered design professional. The certificate shall be completed by the builder or registered design professional and shall not cover or obstruct the visibility of the circuit directory label, service disconnect label or other required labels)) a wall in the space where the furnace is located, a utility room, or an approved location inside the building. When located on an electrical panel, the certificate shall not cover or obstruct the visibility of the circuit directory label, service disconnect label, or other required labels. The certificate shall list the predominant R-values of insulation installed in or on ceiling/roof, walls, foundation (slab, below-grade wall, and/or floor) and ducts outside conditioned spaces; U-factors for fenestration and the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) of fenestration, and the results from any required duct system and building envelope air leakage testing done on the building. Where there is more than one value for each component, the certificate shall list the value covering the largest area. The certificate shall list the types and efficiencies of heating, cooling and service water heating equipment. Where a gas-fired unvented room heater, electric furnace, or baseboard electric heater is installed in the residence, the certificate shall list "gas-fired unvented room heater," "electric furnace" or "baseboard electric heater," as appropriate. An efficiency shall not be listed for gas-fired unvented room heaters, electric furnaces or electric baseboard heaters.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40210 Section R402.1—General.
R402.1 General (Prescriptive). The building thermal envelope shall meet the requirements of Sections R402.1.1 through ((R402.1.4)) R402.1.5.
R402.1.1 Insulation and fenestration criteria. The building thermal envelope shall meet the requirements of Table R402.1.1 based on the climate zone specified in Chapter 3.
R402.1.2 R-value computation. Insulation material used in layers, such as framing cavity insulation ((and insulating sheathing,)) or continuous insulation shall be summed to compute the corresponding component R-value. The manufacturer's settled R-value shall be used for blown insulation. Computed R-values shall not include an R-value for other building materials or air films. Where insulated siding is used for the purpose of complying with the continuous insulation requirements of Table R402.1.1, the manufacturer must supply an ICC Report that the R-factor has been certified, or use R-5 per inch for extruded polystyrene, and R-6 per inch for polyisocyanurate rigid insulation.
R402.1.3 U-factor alternative. An assembly with a U-factor equal to or less than that specified in Table R402.1.3 shall be permitted as an alternative to the R-value in Table R402.1.1.
R402.1.4 Total UA alternative. If the total building thermal envelope UA (sum of U-factor times assembly area) is less than or equal to the total UA resulting from using the U-factors in Table R402.1.3 (multiplied by the same assembly area as in the proposed building), the building shall be considered in compliance with Table R402.1.1. The U-factors for typical construction assemblies are included in Appendix A in chapter 51-11C WAC. These values shall be used for all calculations. Where proposed construction assemblies are not represented in Appendix A, values shall be calculated in accordance with the ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals using the framing factors listed in Appendix A where applicable and shall include the thermal bridging effects of framing materials. The SHGC requirements shall be met in addition to UA compliance. When using REScheck, the U-factors calculated by the software based on component R-value descriptions are acceptable. For the base building UA calculation, the maximum glazing area is 15% of the floor area.
R402.1.5 Vapor retarder. Wall assemblies in the building thermal envelope shall comply with the vapor retarder requirements of Section R702.7 of the International Residential Code or Section 1405.3 of the International Building Code, as applicable.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-20-121, filed 10/1/13, effective 11/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40211 Table R402.1.1—Insulation and fenestration requirements by component.
TABLE R402.1.1
INSULATION AND FENESTRATION REQUIREMENTS BY COMPONENTa
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40213 Table R402.1.3—Equivalent U-factors.
TABLE R402.1.3
EQUIVALENT U-FACTORSa
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40220 Section R402.2—Specific insulation requirements.
R402.2 Specific insulation requirements (Prescriptive). In addition to the requirements of Section R402.1, insulation shall meet the specific requirements of Sections R402.2.1 through ((R402.2.12)) R402.2.11.
R402.2.1 Ceilings with attic spaces. ((When Section R402.1.1 would require R-38 in the ceiling, R-30 shall be deemed to satisfy the requirement for R-38 wherever the full height of uncompressed R-30 insulation extends over the wall top plate at the eaves. Similarly, R-38)) Where Section R402.1.2 would require R-49 in the ceiling, installing R-38 over 100 percent of the ceiling area requiring insulation shall be deemed to satisfy the requirement for R-49 wherever the full height of uncompressed R-38 insulation extends over the wall top plate at the eaves. This reduction shall not apply to the U-factor alternative approach in Section R402.1.3 and the total UA alternative in Section R402.1.4.
R402.2.1.1 Loose insulation in attic spaces. Open-blown or poured loose fill insulation may be used in attic spaces where the slope of the ceiling is not more than 3 feet in 12 and there is at least 30 inches of clear distance from the top of the bottom chord of the truss or ceiling joist to the underside of the sheathing at the roof ridge.
R402.2.3 Eave baffle. For air permeable insulations in vented attics, a baffle shall be installed adjacent to soffit and eave vents. Baffles shall maintain an opening equal or greater than the size of the vent. The baffle shall extend over the top of the attic insulation. The baffle shall be permitted to be any solid material.
R402.2.4 Access hatches and doors. Access doors from conditioned spaces to unconditioned spaces (e.g., attics and crawl spaces) shall be weatherstripped and insulated to a level equivalent to the insulation on the surrounding surfaces. Access shall be provided to all equipment that prevents damaging or compressing the insulation. A wood framed or equivalent baffle or retainer is required to be provided when loose fill insulation is installed, the purpose of which is to prevent the loose fill insulation from spilling into the living space when the attic access is opened, and to provide a permanent means of maintaining the installed R-value of the loose fill insulation.
R402.2.5 Mass walls. Mass walls for the purposes of this chapter shall be considered above-grade walls of concrete block, concrete, insulated concrete form (ICF), masonry cavity, brick (other than brick veneer), earth (adobe, compressed earth block, rammed earth) and solid timber/logs, or any other walls having a heat capacity greater than or equal to 6 Btu/ft2 x °F (123 kJ/m2 x K).
R402.2.6 Steel-frame ceilings, walls, and floors. Steel-frame ceilings, walls, and floors shall meet the U-factor requirements of Table R402.1.3.
R402.2.7 Floors. Floor framing cavity insulation shall be installed to maintain permanent contact with the underside of the subfloor decking. Insulation supports shall be installed so spacing is no more than 24((-))inches on center. Foundation vents shall be placed so that the top of the vent is below the lower surface of the floor insulation.
R402.2.8 ((Basement)) Below-grade walls. Below-grade exterior wall insulation used on the exterior (cold) side of the wall shall extend from the top of the below-grade wall to the top of the footing and shall be approved for below-grade use. Above-grade insulation shall be protected. Insulation used on the interior (warm) side of the wall shall extend from the top of the below-grade wall to the below-grade floor level and shall include R-5 rigid board providing a thermal break between the concrete wall and the slab.
R402.2.9 Slab-on-grade floors. The minimum thermal resistance (R-value) of the insulation around the perimeter of unheated or heated slab-on-grade floors shall be as specified in Table C402.1.1. The insulation shall be placed on the outside of the foundation or on the inside of the foundation wall. The insulation shall extend downward from the top of the slab for a minimum distance as shown in the table or to the top of the footing, whichever is less, or downward to at least the bottom of the slab and then horizontally to the interior or exterior for the total distance shown in the table. A two-inch by two-inch (maximum) pressure treated nailer may be placed at the finished floor elevation for attachment of interior finish materials. Insulation extending away from the building shall be protected by pavement or by a minimum of 10 inches (254 mm) of soil.
R402.2.9.1 Heated slab-on-grade floors (Mandatory). The entire area of a heated slab-on-grade floor shall be thermally isolated from the soil with a minimum of R-10 insulation. The insulation shall be an approved product for its intended use. If a soil gas control system is present below the heated slab-on-grade floor, which results in increased convective flow below the heated slab-on-grade floor, the heated slab-on-grade floor shall be thermally isolated from the sub-slab gravel layer. R-10 heated slab-on-grade floor insulation is required for all compliance paths.
R402.2.10 Reserved.
R402.2.11 Masonry veneer. Insulation shall not be required on the horizontal portion of the foundation that supports a masonry veneer.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40230 Section R402.3—Fenestration.
R402.3 Fenestration (Prescriptive). In addition to the requirements of Section R402, fenestration shall comply with Sections R402.3.1 through ((R402.3.6)) R402.3.5.
R402.3.1 U-factor. An area-weighted average of fenestration products shall be permitted to satisfy the U-factor requirements.
R402.3.2 Glazed fenestration SHGC. An area-weighted average of fenestration products more than 50 percent glazed shall be permitted to satisfy the SHGC requirements.
R402.3.3 Glazed fenestration exemption. Up to 15 square feet (1.4 m2) of glazed fenestration per dwelling unit shall be permitted to be exempt from U-factor and SHGC requirements in Section R402.1.1. This exemption shall not apply to the U-factor alternative approach in Section R402.1.3 and the total UA alternative in Section R402.1.4.
R402.3.4 Opaque door exemption. One side-hinged opaque door assembly up to 24 square feet (2.22 m2) in area is exempted from the U-factor requirement in Section R402.1.1. This exemption shall not apply to the U-factor alternative approach in Section R402.1.3 and the total UA alternative in Section R402.1.4.
R402.3.5 Reserved.
((R402.3.6 Replacement fenestration. Where some or all of an existing fenestration unit is replaced with a new fenestration product, including sash and glazing, the replacement fenestration unit shall meet the applicable requirements for U-factor and SHGC in Table R402.1.1.))
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 14-24-123, filed 12/3/14, effective 1/3/15)
WAC 51-11R-40240 Section R402.4—Air leakage.
R402.4 Air leakage (Mandatory). The building thermal envelope shall be constructed to limit air leakage in accordance with the requirements of Sections R402.4.1 through R402.4.4.
R402.4.1 Building thermal envelope. The building thermal envelope shall comply with Sections R402.4.1.1 and R402.4.1.2. The sealing methods between dissimilar materials shall allow for differential expansion and contraction.
R402.4.1.1 Installation. The components of the building thermal envelope as listed in Table R402.4.1.1 shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and the criteria listed in Table R402.4.1.1, as applicable to the method of construction. Where required by the code official, an approved third party shall inspect all components and verify compliance.
R402.4.1.2 Testing. The building or dwelling unit shall be tested and verified as having an air leakage rate of not exceeding 5 air changes per hour. Testing shall be conducted with a blower door at a pressure of 0.2 inches w.g. (50 Pascals). Where required by the code official, testing shall be conducted by an approved third party. A written report of the results of the test shall be signed by the party conducting the test and provided to the code official. Testing shall be performed at any time after creation of all penetrations of the building thermal envelope. Once visual inspection has confirmed sealing (see Table R402.4.1.1), operable windows and doors manufactured by small business shall be permitted to be sealed off at the frame prior to the test.
During testing:
1. Exterior windows and doors, fireplace and stove doors shall be closed, but not sealed, beyond the intended weatherstripping or other infiltration control measures;
2. Dampers including exhaust, intake, makeup air, backdraft and flue dampers shall be closed, but not sealed beyond intended infiltration control measures;
3. Interior doors, if installed at the time of the test, shall be open, access hatches to conditioned crawl spaces and conditioned attics shall be open;
4. Exterior openings for continuous ventilation systems and heat recovery ventilators shall be closed and sealed;
5. Heating and cooling systems, if installed at the time of the test, shall be turned off; and
6. Supply and return registers, if installed at the time of the test, shall be fully open.
R402.4.2 Fireplaces. New wood-burning fireplaces shall have tight-fitting flue dampers or doors, and outdoor combustion air. When using tight-fitting doors on factory-built fireplaces listed and labeled in accordance with UL 127, the doors shall be tested and listed for the fireplace. Where using tight-fitting doors on masonry fireplaces, the doors shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 907.
R402.4.3 Air leakage of fenestration. Windows, skylights and sliding glass doors shall have an air infiltration rate of no more than 0.3 cfm per square foot (1.5 L/s/m2), and swinging doors no more than 0.5 cfm per square foot (2.6 L/s/m2), when tested according to NFRC 400 or AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440 by an accredited, independent laboratory and listed and labeled by the manufacturer.
R402.4.4 Combustion air openings. In Climate Zones 3 through 8, where open combustion air ducts provide combustion air to open combustion, space conditioning fuel burning appliances, the appliances and combustion air openings shall be located outside of the building thermal envelope, or enclosed in a room isolated from inside the thermal envelope. Such rooms shall be sealed and insulated in accordance with the envelope requirements of Table R402.1.2, where the walls, floors and ceilings shall meet the minimum of the below-grade wall R-value requirement. The door into the room shall be fully gasketed and any water lines and ducts in the room insulated in accordance with Section R403. The combustion air duct shall be insulated where it passes through conditioned space to a minimum of R-8.
R402.4.5 Recessed lighting. Recessed luminaires installed in the building thermal envelope shall be Type IC-rated and certified under ASTM E283 as having an air leakage rate not more than 2.0 cfm (0.944 L/s) when tested at a 1.57 psf (75 Pa) pressure differential and shall have a label attached showing compliance with this test method. All recessed luminaires shall be sealed with a gasket or caulk between the housing and the interior wall or ceiling covering.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40241 Table R402.4.1.1—Air barrier and insulation installation.
TABLE R402.4.1.1
AIR BARRIER AND INSULATION INSTALLATION
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40250 Section R402.5—Maximum fenestration U-factor and SHGC.
R402.5 Maximum fenestration U-factor ((and SHGC)) (Mandatory). The area-weighted average maximum fenestration U-factor permitted using tradeoffs from Section R402.1.4 or R405 shall be 0.48 ((in Climate Zones 4 and 5 and 0.40 in Climate Zones 6 through 8)) for vertical fenestration, and 0.75 ((in Climate Zones 4 through 8)) for skylights. ((The area-weighted average maximum fenestration SHGC permitted using tradeoffs from Section R405 in Climate Zones 1 through 3 shall be 0.50.))
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40310 Section R403.1—Controls.
R403.1 Controls (Mandatory). At least one thermostat shall be provided for each separate heating and cooling system.
R403.1.1 Programmable thermostat. Where the primary heating system is a forced-air furnace, at least one thermostat per dwelling unit shall be capable of controlling the heating and cooling system on a daily schedule to maintain different temperature set points at different times of the day. The thermostat shall allow for, at a minimum, a 5-2 programmable schedule (weekdays/weekends) and be capable of providing at least two programmable setback periods per day. This thermostat shall include the capability to set back or temporarily operate the system to maintain zone temperatures down to 55°F (13°C) or up to 85°F (29°C). The thermostat shall initially be programmed by the manufacturer with a heating temperature set point no higher than 70°F (21°C) and a cooling temperature set point no lower than 78°F (26°C). The thermostat and/or control system shall have an adjustable deadband of not less than 10°F.
R403.1.2 Heat pump supplementary heat (Mandatory). Unitary air cooled heat pumps shall include controls that minimize supplemental heat usage during start-up, set-up, and defrost conditions. These controls shall anticipate need for heat and use compression heating as the first stage of heat. Controls shall indicate when supplemental heating is being used through visual means (e.g., LED indicators). Heat pumps equipped with supplementary heaters shall be installed with controls that prevent supplemental heater operation above 40°F. At final inspection the auxiliary heat lock out control shall be set to 35°F or less.
NEW SECTION
WAC 51-11R-40315 Section R403.2—Hot water boiler.
R403.2 Hot water boiler outdoor temperature setback. Hot water boilers that supply heat to the building through one- or two-pipe heating systems shall have an outdoor temperature setback control that lowers the boiler water temperature based on the outdoor temperature.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40320 Section ((R403.2)) R403.3—Ducts.
((R403.2)) R403.3 Ducts. Ducts and air handlers shall be in accordance with Sections ((R403.2.1 through R403.2.3)) R403.3.1 through R403.3.5.
((R403.2.1)) R403.3.1 Insulation (Prescriptive). Ducts outside the building thermal envelope shall be insulated to a minimum of R-8. Ducts within a concrete slab or in the ground shall be insulation to R-10 with insulation designed to be used below grade.
((R403.2.2)) R403.3.2 Sealing (Mandatory). Ducts, air handlers, and filter boxes shall be sealed. Joints and seams shall comply with either the International Mechanical Code or International Residential Code, as applicable.
((Ducts shall be leak tested in accordance with WSU RS-33, using the maximum duct leakage rates specified. Duct tightness shall be verified by either of the following:
1. Postconstruction test: Total leakage shall be less than or equal to 4 cfm (113.3 L/min) per 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of conditioned floor area when tested at a pressure differential of 0.1 inches w.g. (25 Pa) across the entire system, including the manufacturer's air handler enclosure. All register boots shall be taped or otherwise sealed during the test. Leakage to outdoors shall be less than or equal to 4 cfm (133.3 L/min) per 100 square feet of conditioned floor area.
2. Rough-in test: Total leakage shall be less than or equal to 4 cfm (113.3 L/min) per 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of conditioned floor area when tested at a pressure differential of 0.1 inches w.g. (25 Pa) across the system, including the manufacturer's air handler enclosure. All registers shall be taped or otherwise sealed during the test. If the air handler is not installed at the time of the test, total leakage shall be less than or equal to 3 cfm (85 L/min) per 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of conditioned floor area.
R403.2.2.1)) R403.3.2.1 Sealed air handler. Air handlers shall have a manufacturer's designation for an air leakage of no more than 2 percent of the design air flow rate when tested in accordance with ASHRAE 193.
((R403.2.3)) R403.3.3 Duct testing (Mandatory). Ducts shall be leak tested in accordance with WSU RS-33, using the maximum duct leakage rates specified. Duct tightness shall be verified by either of the following:
A written report of the results shall be signed by the party conducting the test and provided to the code official.
R403.3.4 Duct leakage (Mandatory). The total leakage of the ducts, where measured in accordance with Section R403.3.3, shall be as follows:
1. Rough-in test: Total leakage shall be less than or equal to 4 cfm (113.3 L/min) per 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of conditioned floor area when tested at a pressure differential of 0.1 inches w.g. (25 Pa) across the system, including the manufacturer's air handler enclosure. All registers shall be taped or otherwise sealed during the test. If the air handler is not installed at the time of the test, total leakage shall be less than or equal to 3 cfm (85 L/min) per 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of conditioned floor area.
2. Postconstruction test: Leakage to outdoors shall be less than or equal to 4 cfm (113.3 L/min) per 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of conditioned floor areas or total leakage shall be less than or equal to 4 cfm (113.3 L/min) per 100 square feet (9.29 m2) of conditioned floor area when tested at a pressure differential of 0.1 inches w.g. (25 Pa) across the entire system, including the manufacturer's air handler enclosure. All register boots shall be taped or otherwise sealed during the test.
R403.3.5 Building cavities (Mandatory). Building framing cavities shall not be used as ducts or plenums. Installation of ducts in exterior walls, floors or ceilings shall not displace required envelope insulation.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40330 Section ((R403.3)) R403.4—Mechanical system piping insulation.
((R403.3)) R403.4 Mechanical system piping insulation (Mandatory). Mechanical system piping capable of carrying fluids above 105°F (41°C) or below 55°F (13°C) shall be insulated to a minimum of R-6.
((R403.3.1)) R403.4.1 Protection of piping insulation. Piping insulation exposed to weather shall be protected from damage, including that caused by sunlight, moisture, equipment maintenance, and wind, and shall provide shielding from solar radiation that can cause degradation of the material. Adhesive tape shall not be permitted.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 14-24-053, filed 11/25/14, effective 5/1/15)
WAC 51-11R-40340 Section ((R403.4)) R403.5—Service hot water systems.
((R403.4)) R403.5 Service hot water systems. Energy conservation measures for service hot water systems shall be in accordance with Sections ((R403.4.1 through R403.4.3)) R403.5.1 through R403.5.5.
((R403.4.1 Circulating hot water systems (Mandatory). Circulating hot water systems shall be provided with an automatic or readily accessible manual switch that can turn off the hot water circulating pump when the system is not in use.
R403.4.2)) R403.5.1 Heated water circulation and temperature maintenance system (Mandatory). Heated water circulation systems shall be in accordance with Section R403.4.1.1. Heat trace temperature maintenance systems shall be in accordance with Section R403.4.1.2. Automatic controls, temperature sensors and pumps shall be accessible. Manual controls shall be readily accessible.
R403.5.1.1 Circulation systems. Heated water circulation systems shall be provided with a circulation pump. The system return pipe shall be a dedicated return pipe or a cold water supply pipe. Gravity and thermos-syphon circulation systems shall be prohibited. Controls for circulating hot water system pumps shall start the pump based on the identification of a demand for hot water within the occupancy. The controls shall automatically turn off the pump when the water in the circulation loop is at the desired temperature and when there is no demand for hot water.
R403.5.1.2 Heat trace systems. Electric heat trace systems shall comply with IEEE 515.1 or UL 515. Controls for such systems shall automatically adjust the energy input to the heat tracing to maintain the desired water temperature in the piping in accordance with the times when heated water is used in the occupancy.
R403.5.2 Demand recirculation systems. A water distribution system having one or more recirculation pumps that pump water from a heated water supply pipe back to the heated water source through a cold water supply pipe shall be a demand recirculation water system. Pumps shall have controls that comply with both of the following:
1. The control shall start the pump upon receiving a signal from the action of a user of a fixture or appliance, sensing the presence of a user of a fixture or sensing the flow of hot or tempered water to a fixture fitting or appliance.
2. The control shall limit the temperature of the water entering the cold water piping to 104ºF (40ºC).
R403.5.3 Hot water pipe insulation (Prescriptive). Insulation for hot water pipe, both within and outside the conditioned space, shall have a minimum thermal resistance (R-value) of R-3.
((R403.4.3)) R403.5.4 Drain water heat recovery units. Drain water heat recovery units shall comply with CSA 55.2. Drain water heat recovery units shall be in accordance with CSA 55.1. Potable water-side pressure loss of drain water heat recovery units shall be less than 3 psi (20.7 kPa) for individual units connected to one or two showers. Potable water-side pressure loss of drain water heat recovery units shall be less than 2 psi (13.8 kPa) for individual units connected to three or more showers.
R403.5.5 Electric water heater insulation. All electric water heaters in unheated spaces or on concrete floors shall be placed on an incompressible, insulated surface with a minimum thermal resistance of R-10.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40350 Section ((R403.5)) R403.6—Mechanical ventilation.
((R403.5)) R403.6 Mechanical ventilation (Mandatory). The building shall be provided with ventilation that meets the requirements of the International Residential Code or International Mechanical Code, as applicable, or with other approved means of ventilation. Outdoor air intakes and exhausts shall have automatic or gravity dampers that close when the ventilation system is not operating.
((R403.5.1)) R403.6.1 Whole-house mechanical ventilation system fan efficacy. Mechanical ventilation system fans shall meet the efficacy requirements of Table ((R403.5.1)) R403.6.1.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40351 Table ((R403.5.1)) R403.6.1—Mechanical ventilation system fan efficacy.
TABLE ((R403.5.1)) R403.6.1
MECHANICAL VENTILATION SYSTEM FAN EFFICACY
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40360 Section ((R403.6)) R403.7—Equipment sizing.
((R403.6)) R403.7 Equipment sizing and efficiency rating (Mandatory). Heating and cooling equipment shall be sized in accordance with ACCA Manual S based on building loads calculated in accordance with ACCA Manual J or other approved heating and cooling calculation methodologies. The output capacity of heating and cooling equipment shall not be greater than that of the smallest available equipment size that exceeds the loads calculated, including allowable oversizing limits. New or replacement heating and cooling equipment shall have an efficiency rating equal to or greater than the minimum required by federal law for the geographic location where the equipment is installed.
R403.7.1 Electric resistance zone heated units. All detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) up to three stories in height above grade plane using electric zonal heating as the primary heat source shall install an inverter-driven ductless mini-split heat pump in the largest zone in the dwelling. Building permit drawings shall specify the heating equipment type and location of the heating system.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40370 Section ((R403.7)) R403.8—Systems serving multiple dwelling units.
((R403.7)) R403.8 Systems serving multiple dwelling units (Mandatory). Systems serving multiple dwelling units shall comply with Sections C403 and C404 of the ((IECC)) WSEC—Commercial Provisions in lieu of Section R403.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40380 Section ((R403.8)) R403.9—Snow melt system controls.
((R403.8)) R403.9 Snow melt system controls (Mandatory). Snow and ice-melting systems, supplied through energy service to the building, shall include automatic controls capable of shutting off the system when the pavement temperature is above 50°F, and no precipitation is falling and an automatic or manual control that will allow shutoff when the outdoor temperature is above 40°F.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40390 Section ((R403.9)) R403.10—Pool((s and in-ground spas)) and spa energy consumption.
((R403.9 Pools and in-ground permanently installed spas)) R403.10 Pool and permanent spa energy consumption (Mandatory). Pools and ((in-ground permanently installed)) permanent spas shall comply with Sections ((R403.9.1 through R403.9.4.2)) R403.10.1 through R403.10.4.2.
((R403.9.1)) R403.10.1 Heaters. ((All heaters shall be equipped with a readily accessible on-off switch that is mounted outside of the heater to allow shutting off the heater without adjusting the thermostat setting.)) The electric power to heaters shall be controlled by a readily accessible on-off switch that is an integral part of the heater mounted on the exterior of the heater, or external to and within 3 feet (914 mm) of the heater. Operation of such switch shall not change the settings of the heater thermostat. Such switches shall be in addition to a circuit breaker for the power to the heater. Gas-fired heaters shall not be equipped with constant burning pilot lights.
((R403.9.2)) R403.10.2 Time switches. Time switches or other control method that can automatically turn off and on ((heaters and pumps)) according to a preset schedule shall be installed ((on all)) for heaters and pump((s)) motors. Heaters((, pumps)) and pump motors that have built in ((timers)) time switches shall be deemed in compliance with this requirement.
((R403.9.3)) R403.10.3 Covers. Outdoor heated pools and ((in-ground permanently installed)) outdoor permanent spas shall be provided with a vapor-retardant cover, or other approved vapor retardant means.
((R403.9.4)) R403.10.4 Residential pool pumps. Pool pump motors may not be split-phase or capacitor start-induction run type.
((R403.9.4.1)) R403.10.4.1 Two-speed capability.
1. Pump motors: Pool pump motors with a capacity of 1 hp or more shall have the capability of operating at two or more speeds with low speed having a rotation rate that is no more than one-half of the motor's maximum rotation rate.
2. Pump controls: Pool pump motor controls shall have the capability of operating the pool pump with at least two speeds. The default circulation speed shall be the lowest speed, with a high speed override capability being for a temporary period not to exceed one normal cycle.
((R403.9.4.2)) R403.10.4.2 Pump operation. Circulating water systems shall be controlled so that the circulation pump(s) can be conveniently turned off, automatically or manually, when the water system is not in operation.
NEW SECTION
WAC 51-11R-40391 Section R403.10—Other pools and spas.
R403.11 Portable spas (Mandatory). The energy consumption of electric-powered portable spas shall be controlled by the requirements of APSP-14.
R403.12 Residential pools and permanent residential spas. Residential swimming pools and permanent residential spas that are accessory to detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses three stories or less in height above grade plane and that are available only to the household and its guests shall be in accordance with APSP-15.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40410 Section R404.1—Lighting equipment.
R404.1 Lighting equipment (Mandatory). A minimum of 75 percent of ((permanently installed)) lamps in permanently installed lighting fixtures shall be high-efficacy lamps.
R404.1.1 Lighting equipment (Mandatory). Fuel gas lighting systems shall not have continuously burning pilot lights.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40530 Section R405.3—Performance-based compliance.
R405.3 Performance-based compliance. Compliance based on simulated energy performance requires that a proposed residence (proposed design) be shown to have an annual energy consumption based on site energy expressed in Btu and Btu per square foot of conditioned floor area as follows:
1. For structures less than 1,500 square feet of conditioned floor area, the annual energy consumption shall be less than or equal to ((97)) 80 percent of the annual energy consumption of the standard reference design.
2. For structures 1,500 to 5,000 square feet of conditioned floor area, the annual energy consumption shall be no more than ((89)) 72 percent of the standard reference design.
3. For structures over 5,000 square feet of conditioned floor area, the annual energy consumption shall be no more than ((83)) 66 percent of the standard reference design.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40540 Section R405.4—Documentation.
R405.4 Documentation. Documentation of the software used for the performance design and the parameters for the building shall be in accordance with Sections R405.4.1 through R405.4.3.
R405.4.1 Compliance software tools. Documentation verifying that the methods and accuracy of the compliance software tools conform to the provisions of this section shall be provided to the code official.
R405.4.2 Compliance report. Compliance software tools shall generate a report that documents that the proposed design complies with Section R405.3. ((The compliance documentation shall include the following information:
1. Address or other identification of the residence;
2. An inspection checklist documenting the building component characteristics of the proposed design as listed in Table R405.5.2(1). The inspection checklist shall show results for both the standard reference design and the proposed design, and shall document all inputs entered by the user necessary to reproduce the results;
3. Name of individual completing the compliance report; and
4. Name and version of the compliance software tool.
A compliance report on the proposed design shall be submitted with the application for the building permit. Upon completion of the building, a compliance report based upon the as-built condition of the building shall be submitted to the code official before a certificate of occupancy is issued. Batch sampling of buildings to determine energy code compliance for all buildings in the batch shall be prohibited.
Compliance reports shall include information in accordance with Sections R405.4.2.1 and R405.4.2.2. Where the proposed design of a building could be built on different sites where the cardinal orientation of the building on each site is different, compliance of the proposed design for the purposes of the application for the building permit shall be based upon the worst-case orientation, worst-case configuration, worst-case building air leakage and worst-case duct leakage. Such worst-case parameters shall be used as inputs to the compliance software for energy analysis.
R405.4.2.1 Compliance report for permit application. A compliance report submitted with the application for building permit shall include all of the following:
1. Building street address, or other building site identification.
2. A statement indicating that the proposed design complies with Section R405.3.
3. An inspection checklist documenting the building component characteristics of the proposed design as indicated in Table R405.5.2(1). The inspection checklist shall show results for both the standard reference design and the proposed design with all user inputs to the compliance software to generate the results.
4. A site-specific energy analysis report that is in compliance with Section R405.3.
5. Name of the individual performing the analysis and generating the report.
6. Name and version of the compliance software tool.
R405.4.2.2 Compliance report for certificate of occupancy. A compliance report submitted for obtaining the certificate of occupancy shall include all of the following:
1. Building street address, or other building site identification.
2. A statement indicating that the as-built building complies with Section R405.3.
3. A certificate indicating that the building passes the performance matrix for code compliance and the energy saving features of the building.
4. A site-specific energy analysis report that is in compliance with Section R405.3.
5. Name of the individual performing the analysis and generating the report.
6. Name and version of the compliance software tool.
R405.4.3 Additional documentation. The code official shall be permitted to require the following documents:
1. Documentation of the building component characteristics of the standard reference design.
2. A certification signed by the builder providing the building component characteristics of the proposed design as given in Table R405.5.2(1).
3. Documentation of the actual values used in the software calculations for the proposed design.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40551 Table R405.5.2(1)—Specifications for the standard reference and proposed designs.
TABLE R405.5.2(1)
SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE STANDARD REFERENCE AND PROPOSED DESIGNS
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40552 Table R405.5.2(2)—Default distribution system efficiencies for proposed designs.
TABLE R405.5.2(2)
DEFAULT DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM EFFICIENCIES FOR PROPOSED DESIGNSa
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-40620 Section R406.2—Additional energy efficiency requirements.
OPTION 1:
R406.2 Additional energy efficiency requirements (Mandatory). Each dwelling unit in ((one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses, as defined in Section 101.2 of the International Residential Code)) a residential building shall comply with sufficient options from Table R406.2 so as to achieve the following minimum number of credits:
The drawings included with the building permit application shall identify which options have been selected and the point value of each option, regardless of whether separate mechanical, plumbing, electrical, or other permits are utilized for the project.
OPTION 2:
R406.2 Additional energy efficiency requirements (Mandatory). Each dwelling unit in ((one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses, as defined in Section 101.2 of the International Residential Code)) a residential building shall comply with sufficient options from Table R406.2 so as to achieve the following minimum number of credits:
The drawings included with the building permit application shall identify which options have been selected and the point value of each option, regardless of whether separate mechanical, plumbing, electrical, or other permits are utilized for the project.
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 14-24-123, filed 12/3/14, effective 1/3/15)
WAC 51-11R-40621 Table R406.2—Energy credits.
TABLE 406.2
ENERGY CREDITS (((DEBITS)))
AMENDATORY SECTION (Amending WSR 13-04-055, filed 2/1/13, effective 7/1/13)
WAC 51-11R-50000 Chapter 5—((Referenced standards.)) Existing buildings.
((This chapter lists the standards that are referenced in various sections of this document. The standards are listed herein by the promulgating agency of the standard, the standard identification, the effective date and title, and the section or sections of this document that reference the standard. The application of the referenced standards shall be as specified in Section R106.
NEW SECTION
WAC 51-11R-50100 Section R501—General.
R501.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall control the alteration, repair, addition and change of occupancy of existing buildings and structures.
R501.1.1 Additions, alterations, or repairs. Additions, alterations, or repairs to an existing building, building system or portion thereof shall comply with Sections R502, R503 or R504. Unaltered portions of the existing building or building supply system shall not be required to comply with this code.
R501.2 Existing buildings. Except as specified in this chapter, this code shall not be used to require the removal, alteration or abandonment of, nor prevent the continued use and maintenance of, an existing building or building system lawfully in existence at the time of adoption of this code.
R501.3 Maintenance. Buildings and structures, and parts thereof, shall be maintained in a safe and sanitary condition. Devices and systems that are required by this code shall be maintained in conformance with the code edition under which installed. The owner or the owner's authorized agent shall be responsible for the maintenance of buildings and structures. The requirements of this chapter shall not provide the basis for removal or abrogation of energy conservation, fire protection and safety systems and devices in existing structures.
R501.4 Compliance. Alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy to, or relocation of, existing buildings and structures shall comply with the provisions for alterations, repairs, additions and changes of occupancy or relocation, respectively, in the International Residential Code, International Building Code, International Fire Code, International Fuel Gas Code, International Mechanical Code, Uniform Plumbing Code, International Property Maintenance Code, and NFPA 70.
R501.5 New and replacement materials. Except as otherwise required or permitted by this code, materials permitted by the applicable code for new construction shall be used. Like materials shall be permitted for repairs, provided hazards to life, health or property are not created. Hazardous materials shall not be used where the code for new construction would not permit their use in buildings of similar occupancy, purpose and location.
R501.6 Historic buildings. The building official may modify the specific requirements of this code for historic buildings and require in lieu of alternate requirements which will result in a reasonable degree of energy efficiency. This modification may be allowed for those buildings or structures that are listed in the state or national register of historic places; designated as a historic property under local or state designation law or survey; certified as a contributing resource with a national register listed or locally designated historic district; or with an opinion or certification that the property is eligible to be listed on the national or state register of historic places either individually or as a contributing building to a historic district by the state historic preservation officer or the keeper of the National Register of Historic Places.
NEW SECTION
WAC 51-11R-50200 Section R502—Additions.
R502.1 General. Additions to an existing building, building system or portion thereof shall conform to the provisions of this code as those provisions relate to new construction without requiring the unaltered portion of the existing building or building system to comply with this code. Additions shall not create an unsafe or hazardous condition or overload existing building systems. An addition shall be deemed to comply with this code where the addition alone complies, where the existing building and addition comply with this code as a single building, or where the building with the addition uses no more energy than the existing building. Additions shall be in accordance with Section R502.1.1 or R502.1.2.
An addition shall be deemed to comply with this code if the addition alone complies, if the existing building and addition comply as a single building, or if the building with the addition uses no more energy than the existing building.
R502.1.1 Prescriptive compliance. Additions shall comply with Sections R502.1.1.1 through R502.1.1.4.
R502.1.1.1 Building envelope. New building envelope assemblies that are part of the addition shall comply with Sections R402.1, R402.2, R402.3.1 through R402.3.5, and R402.4.
R502.1.1.2 Heating and cooling systems. New heating, cooling and duct systems that are part of the addition shall comply with Sections R403.1, R403.2, R403.3, R403.5, and R403.6.
R502.1.1.3 Service hot water systems. New service hot water systems that are part of the addition shall comply with Section R403.4.
R502.1.1.4 Lighting. New lighting systems that are part of the addition shall comply with Section 404.1.
R502.1.2 Existing plus addition compliance (Simulated Performance Alternative). Where nonconditioned space is changed to conditioned space the addition shall comply where the annual energy use of the addition and the existing building, and any alterations that are part of the project, is less than or equal to the annual energy use of the existing building when modeled in accordance with Section R405. The addition and any alterations that are part of the project shall comply with Section R405 in its entirety.
NEW SECTION
WAC 51-11R-50300 Section R503—Alterations.
R503.1 General. Alterations to any building or structure shall comply with the requirements of the code for new construction. Alterations shall be such that the existing building or structure is no less conforming to the provisions of this code than the existing building or structure was prior to the alteration.
Alterations to an existing building, building system or portion thereof shall conform to the provisions of this code as they relate to new construction without requiring the unaltered portions of the existing building or building system to comply with this code. Alterations shall not create an unsafe or hazardous condition or overload existing building systems.
Alterations shall be such that the existing building or structure uses no more energy than the existing building or structure prior to the alteration. Alterations to existing buildings shall comply with Sections R503.1.1 through R503.2
The code official may approve designs of alterations which do not fully conform to all of the requirements of this code where in the opinion of the building official full compliance is physically impossible and/or economically impractical and:
The alteration improves the energy efficiency of the building; or
The alteration is energy efficient and is necessary for the health, safety, and welfare of the general public.
R503.1.1 Building envelope. Building envelope assemblies that are part of the alteration shall comply with Section R402.1.2 or R402.1.4, Sections R402.2.1 through R402.2.12, R402.3.1, R402.3.2, R402.4.3, and R402.4.4.
R503.1.1.1 Replacement fenestration. Where some or all of an existing fenestration unit is replaced with a new fenestration product, including sash and glazing, the replacement fenestration unit shall meet the applicable requirements for U-factor and SHGC in Table R402.1.2.
R503.1.2 Heating and cooling systems. New heating, cooling and duct systems that are part of the alteration shall comply with Sections R403.1, R403.2, R403.3, and R403.6.
R503.1.3 Service hot water systems. New service hot water systems that are part of the alteration shall comply with Section R403.4.
R503.1.4 Lighting. New lighting systems that are part of the alteration shall comply with Section R404.1.
R503.2 Change in space conditioning. Any nonconditioned or low-energy space that is altered to become conditioned space shall be required to be brought into full compliance with this code.
NEW SECTION
WAC 51-11R-50400 Section R504—Repairs.
R504.1 General. Buildings, structures and parts thereof shall be repaired in compliance with Section R501.3 and this section. Work on nondamaged components that is necessary for the required repair of damaged components shall be considered part of the repair and shall not be subject to the requirements for alterations in this chapter. Routine maintenance required by Section R501.3, ordinary repairs exempt from permit, and abatement of wear due to normal service conditions shall not be subject to the requirements for repairs in this section.
The code official may approve designs of repairs which do not fully conform with all of the requirements of this code where in the opinion of the building official full compliance is physically impossible and/or economically impractical and:
1. The repair improves the energy efficiency of the building; or
2. The repair is energy efficient and is necessary for the health, safety, and welfare of the general public.
R504.2 Application. For the purposes of this code, the following shall be considered repairs.
1. Glass only replacements in an existing sash and frame.
2. Roof repairs.
3. Repairs where only the bulb and/or ballast within the existing luminaires in a space are replaced provided that the replacement does not increase the installed interior lighting power.
NEW SECTION
WAC 51-11R-50500 Section R505—Change of occupancy or use.
R505.1 Change in occupancy or use. Any space not within the scope of Section R101.2 which is converted to space that is within the scope of Section R101.2 shall be brought into full compliance with this code.
Spaces undergoing a change in occupancy that would result in an increase in demand for either fossil fuel or electrical energy shall comply with this code.
Any space that is converted to a dwelling unit or portion thereof from another use or occupancy shall comply with this code.
NEW SECTION
WAC 51-11R-51000 Chapter 6—Referenced standards.
This chapter lists the standards that are referenced in various sections of this document. The standards are listed herein by the promulgating agency of the standard, the standard identification, the effective date and title, and the section or sections of this document that reference the standard. The application of the referenced standards shall be as specified in Section R106.
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