New Roofing Rules for Miami-Dade and Broward Counties and Other Critical Updates Affecting the Roofing Industry
The 8th Edition of the Florida Building Code is here, and it will have a big impact on roofers working in South Florida. The new code updates the 7th Edition (2020) FBC with the addition of a number of proposed Supplements.
One of the key changes taking place centers on the regulation of “peel-and-stick” underlayment in Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. Supplements included in to the new Edition include all modifications securing a 75% majority vote of the Commission and previously adopted amendments. These changes significantly impact various building design, construction, and roofing practices.
Although the latest effective date of the current Florida Building Code is January 31, 2023, the implementation of the new code begins on December 31, 2023, effectively replacing it, and continues through the subsequent six months into 2024. This code undergoes regular updates every three years as specified in sections 553.73(3) and (7) of the Florida Statutes.
Roofing professionals must stay informed about these modifications. Read on to get the highlights.
What’s the impact of the new building code for Roofers in Miami-Dade and Broward?
In 1994, shortly after the overwhelming destruction caused by Hurricane Andrew in 1992, Miami-Dade and Broward adopted additional code requirements to address some of the more devastating property damages that occurred from the killer storm, including protections like reinforced garage doors and upgrades to exterior doors.
Part of those additional code requirements prevented roofers in the two counties from using a peel-and-stick underlayment, citing additional homeowner expense when it’s necessary to repair or replace a roof. However, the peel-and-stick option is typically considered by industry experts to be a superior water barrier that also lends strength to a roof in the face of a hurricane.
With the new Edition of the FBC, roofers in Miami-Dade and Broward will now be able to freely install this option if the homeowner chooses it.
Florida Building Code – Changes for Roofing in the 8th Edition
In addition to the changes in Miami-Dade and Broward, the latest updates to the Florida Building Code (FBC) bring several other changes to the roofing industry. Some revisions aim to increase clarity and understanding and to enhance roofing performance and durability. For instance, the code now refers to Miami-Dade instead of Dade County (which changed in 1997), and “self-adhering” is used instead of “selfadhering” for accuracy.
The updates address additional specifications for underlayment and nail penetration depth, ensuring better roofing performance. Additionally, the 25% Roof Replacement guidelines have been simplified by removing specific scenarios.
To help your roofing team stay informed and comply with the latest regulations in the roofing industry, here is a high-level overview of all the roofing code updates.
Asphalt Underlayment and Installation
The 8th Edition of the FBC has updated section 1518.2.1, explicitly about installing asphalt and underlayment. The revised guidelines now require the installation of two layers of underlayment for asphalt shingles, metal roof panels or shingles; mineral surfaced roll roofing, slate, and slate-type shingles.
Underlayment
Underlayment must meet ASTM document number 1 Type II or ASTM document number 2 Type III, Type IV, or ASTM document number 3 standards. Specific underlayment requirements and updates can be found in the FBC.
Section 1518.2.1 has also been updated to reflect a correction to the width of the self-adhering underlayment.
Additionally, the updates to the code incorporate improvements in installing a two-layer underlayment system. This extends consistent requirements for two-layer underlayment systems within and outside the High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ).
Roof Installation
Section 1518.2.1 also allows for additional corrections by the Commission. The first addresses the correct standard, which should be ASTM D6757 instead of ASTM D675. The second involves changing the minimum nail penetration through sheathing or planks.
Installation of Direct Deck and Counter Battens
The FBC has changed the underlayment requirements for mechanically fastened roof tile systems with direct deck and counter battens only. For roofs with a pitch of 4:12 or greater, single-ply underlayments that use battens or direct deck are no longer called “nail-on” underlayments.
The Roofing Application Standard (RAS) No. 120-20 has been modified to eliminate references to systems with mechanically fastened base sheets and cap sheets set hot, cold, or self-adhered, specifically addressing mortar and adhesive set tile application.
The updates are intended to create consistency in language across different sections and standards, ensuring clarity and helping roofing professionals follow the latest guidelines for underlayment applications. These changes are part of ongoing efforts to improve roofing practices, promote safety, and comply with the newest industry standards within the FBC-Building Residential Codes and RAS 130.
25% Replacement Rule
The Florida Building Code has recently undergone updates to the 25% Roof Replacement Rule, eliminated in certain situations due to SB-4D, enacted on May 26, 2022.
Previously, the rule mandated that roofs be replaced if more than 25% of the roof surface was damaged. However, different rules apply depending on your roof’s construction or replacement date, and it’s crucial to understand the specifics.
The recent 25% Roof Replacement Rule updates aim to simplify the roofing repair and replacement process, providing property owners with more flexibility and cost-effectiveness when addressing roof damage. The code adjustment reflects a practical and pragmatic approach to roof maintenance and construction, benefiting homeowners and the building industry.
Stay Up-to-Date with Compliance
As a roofing pro in South Florida, you must stay informed about the recent 2023 updates to the Florida Building Code taking place on January 1, 2024. Keep in mind that with the discontinuation of the 25% Roof Replacement Rule in certain situations, it becomes even more essential to address roof damage promptly on behalf of homeowners.
At Anusbigian Sales, we understand that your livelihood can be significantly impacted by these updates. Ensuring that your roofing team, especially project managers, understand these updates can help prevent issues passing code inspections. Don’t compromise on quality or risk non-compliance. The Anusbigian staff is here to help. In addition to helping you source high-quality products like CertainTeed roofing systems and long-lasting Ludowici Roofing tiles, we can also help by providing training classes on best practices. And, of course, we’re always just a phone call away when you have a question.
For More Information and Details on FBC changes for 2024, check out our Resources page for all things Florida Building Code-related.
