Are you considering a new project to improve the exterior of your Colorado home? If so, you need to be aware of a recent change in building regulations. Appendix Z of the Jefferson County Building Code took effect on January 1, 2020, and it sets new fire resistance requirements for construction projects such as siding, roofing, and windows. The following are some of the key takeaways from these regulations.
What Is the Purpose of the New Regulations?
Simply put, Appendix Z is aimed at reducing the impact of wildfires. It was designed to save lives, protect property, and reduce the damage of wildfires.
Do the New Regs Affect Your Home?
The first thing you need to do is find out if Appendix Z applies to you. These new regulations cover buildings in Wildfire Zone 1. You can find Wildfire Zones 1 and 2 on the Wildfire Zone Map in the appendix. These zones include unincorporated parts of Jefferson County.
Once you determine whether you’re in Wildfire Zone 1, you need to consider what kind of building project you might do. The rules apply only to new work, such as remodels or additions. You aren’t required to update your home for the sole purpose of complying. However, the regulations do apply to your home if you’re planning to build or change your home’s exterior in any way.
What Are the Fire Resistance Requirements?
These rules describe fire resistance standards for building components and materials. Materials used in exterior projects such as roofing and siding must now be built with materials that have been tested to meet specific ASTM standards for being non-combustible. Exterior walls must be built from non-combustible materials that are at least 1-hour fire-resistant as well as ignition-resistant.
Can You Use Wood Siding?
You can still replace your exterior with wood siding, but you need the right kinds of wood products. You can refer to the CalFire Building Materials Listing Service to see if the materials you plan to use are compliant with the regulations. Or, even easier, you can check with a trustworthy home remodeling company.
How to Get More Information
Building regulations are often confusing for those who are not in the construction or remodeling business. And, finding out whether the materials you want to use are compliant can be a chore. At GS Exterior Experts, we are happy to help you. If it turns out that the siding or roofing materials you thought of using are noncompliant, we can offer a wide range of alternatives that will meet the new standards. And, if you haven’t thought of which materials to use yet, we can guide you in the selection of siding and roofing materials.
With our knowledge and attention to detail, we will ensure that you comply with the new standards in Appendix Z and all the Jefferson County building regulations. Just give us a call at (720) 683-6288 or use our convenient Contact Us form to reach out to us. We offer a free consultation so you can consider the regulations as well as all the beautiful possibilities of remodeling your exterior.
