Attic Insulation Requirements Massachusetts

In 2009 massachusetts became the first state to adopt an above code appendix to the base building energy code the stretch code 780 cmr appendix 115 aa the stretch code which emphasizes energy performance as opposed to prescriptive requirements is designed to result in cost effective construction that is more energy efficient than that built to the base energy code.

Attic insulation requirements massachusetts.

Achieving greater r values in attics the higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. Special insulation exceptions related to ceilings with attic spaces ceilings without attic spaces masonry veneer and thermally isolated sunrooms are set forth in iecc. The recommended r value for attic floor insulation for this house is r 38. One of the most common problems i encounter in the majority of my home inspections is the lack of proper attic ventilation.

The homeowner could then check table 1 to find several choices. Insulation requirements for slab on grade floors is further specified in iecc section 402 2 8. The simplified table of building envelope requirements on the previous page applies to new residential buildings as defined in the iecc with wood framing and or mass walls. If you think you re among the 90 of us homes that are under insulated 1 performing a simple insulation inspection will help you determine your insulation needs.

Having the correct amount of attic insulation can help you maintain a comfortable temperature throughout your home and help save money on your energy bills plus prevent major issues like ice dams in the winter. Add insulation to attic. Perfect airflow venting through an attic. Insulation requirements for slab on grade floors are further specified in iecc section r402 2 10.

However refer to iecc section r402 2 6 for specific insulation r value requirements. Recommended insulation levels for retrofitting existing wood framed buildings. R 5 shall be added to the required slab edge r values for heated slabs. For steel framed buildings the same window requirements apply.

R 5 shall be added to the required slab edge r values for heated slabs. If the existing attic floor insulation has an r 11 insulation value then an additional r 27 would be needed to bring the attic floor insulation up to the level recommended for that house. Existing 3 4 inches of insulation.