With so many advancements in construction , owners and developers face a unique set of challenges when it comes to building resilience. It’s no longer enough to simply meet minimum code requirements; there is an increasing need to mitigate the risks associated with environmental hazards, stresses, and the unpredictability of climate conditions. Evolving energy codes, frequent and intense weather events, and growing awareness of embodied carbon in construction materials highlight the importance of long-term thinking in building design and development. Building for longevity, safety, and efficiency has become a core objective across the industry. According to the US Department of Energy, approximately 30 percent of the energy consumed in commercial buildings is related to the building envelope—composed of windows, walls, and roofs. This energy consumption makes it clear that construction professionals must prioritize efficient building enclosure designs. One of the most critical solutions in achieving this efficiency is the proper installation and use of air and water-resistive barriers (AWBs), which help optimize energy use while protecting against environmental damage. Understanding Building Code Requirements Building code compliance lays the foundation for creating safe, energy-efficient buildings, yet it serves as only the starting point for designing structures that can withstand the challenges posed by both environmental conditions and the expectations of modern building performance. To genuinely fortify a building’s resilience, professionals must delve into the evolution of building codes and their integration of safety and sustainability principles, which require a deep understanding of regulatory frameworks as well as voluntary standards. The International Code Council (ICC) and the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
lead the development of essential codes aimed at enhancing building enclosure performance, addressing areas like thermal comfort, energy efficiency, and structural durability. The ICC, for example, publishes the International Building Code (IBC) and the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), which establish minimum standards for construction that are continuously updated to reflect improvements in materials and methods. ASHRAE, through standards like ASHRAE 90.1, offers guidelines that set the minimum requirements for energy efficiency in buildings other than low-rise residential, impacting how systems and envelopes are designed to minimize energy use. Alongside these mandatory codes, voluntary standards, such as those outlined by the US Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), drive the adoption of sustainable practices. LEED certifications provide recognition for buildings that excel in sustainability and efficiency, pushing the envelope on energy- saving strategies, water conservation, and indoor environmental quality. These standards also encourage the integration of green design elements such as energy-efficient HVAC systems, sustainably sourced materials, and enhanced building envelope performance. Achieving LEED certification not only meets the high demand for environmentally responsible buildings but also establishes a competitive edge in the market as more owners seek green certifications to enhance property value and appeal. The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and the International Green Construction Code (IgCC) have proven to be instrumental in driving advancements in energy efficiency across the construction sector. These codes are regularly updated, often in response to both innovations in technology and an evolving understanding of environmental impacts. For example, the 2021 update to ICC building codes introduced measures to improve building envelope performance, requiring stricter control of air leakage, enhanced insulation, and more
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