Energy codes in the Kingsport, Bristol, and Johnson City, Tennessee market are ever-evolving, and with most of our region now required to meet 2009 standards, it’s important to take a look at what will be required from energy codes in the near future.

More stringent energy codes save energy and money, increase the comfort and value of homes, and reduce the liability of contractors.

Overall, the 2012 IECC is about 30% MORE energy efficient than the 2006 code. It calls for 3.5″ more blown fiberglass in the attic (2006: R-38 vs. 2012: R-49), and more insulation in walls (2006: R-13 vs. 2012: R-20) . These mandatory R-values meet the “prescriptive” code requirements.

But, there are tradeoffs involving spray foam insulation to meet a “performance” code, including options to spray foam the attic roofline and create a conditioned attic space. 2012 codes place a big emphasis on air sealing the thermal envelope, and that’s exactly what spray foam insulation does.

Finally, all residential buildings will be required to conduct a blower door test to determine the home’s air leakage rate. A blower door is a tool that depressurizes a house making leaks easier to measure and locate.

Have a look at the chart below to see how much insulation will soon be required in new construction: