This bill proposes an amendment to the state building code, specifically updating the requirements for air leakage testing in buildings or dwelling units. The amendment will change the International Energy Conservation Code 2018, R402.4.1.2, setting the maximum air leakage rate that is permissible. The new standard will not allow the air leakage rate to exceed 5.0 air changes per hour or 0.28 cubic feet per minute (CFM) per square foot of dwelling unit enclosure area. It also removes the previous metric measurement of 0.0079 m3/(s × m2). The testing for this standard must be conducted in accordance with ANSI/RESNET/ICC 380, ASTM E779, or ASTM E1827 and reported at a pressure of 0.2 inch w.g. (50 Pascals). Additionally, the bill stipulates that the air exchange rate must not be set higher than 5, regardless of other building code requirements.

The bill, upon enactment, will take immediate effect, with an approved and effective date of July 03, 2024. This means that as soon as the bill is passed, the new air leakage standards will be applicable to the state building code, and all relevant construction and testing will need to comply with this updated requirement.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 155-A:1