2027 I-Code Cycle Begins With Positive Steps
By Matt Dobson, Vice President, PEPA
The Polymeric Exterior Products Association (PEPA) Code Development Work Group (CDWG) has chartered proactive steps with the I-codes. Part of this focus includes addressing new product categories while proposing changes to fire safety requirements related to combustible mulch as an ignition source. The CDWG works to ensure that vinyl siding, insulated siding, backed siding, polypropylene siding and other polymeric components are fairly treated and regulated in building codes.
The cycle, which began positively in January, had no significant attacks on polymeric products, and efforts to add additional testing requirements were not accepted at this time. This included attempts to broaden the use of NFPA 285, a costly, full large wall fire test requirement typically applied to combustible cladding used with high-rise non-combustible construction.
The cycle’s first set of hearings took place in April and strongly focused on fire safety for commercial buildings and wildfire settings. PEPA members pushed for and successfully added Backed Vinyl Siding (ASTM D7445) into the International Building Code (IBC). However, there are still two more steps in the process. It is worth noting several new PEPA members participated successfully in testifying before the IBC Fire Safety Committee.
In addition, PEPA Vice President Matt Dobson continues to push for more regulation of combustible mulch, which has been a source of ignition for exterior fires, including fires that lead to exterior wall and soffit conflagration. Matt also serves, through a National Association of Home Builders appointment, as an IBC Fire Safety Committee member.
The CDWG will meet again in June and November, with an in-person meeting in Florida to prepare for the January 2025 deadline, which includes a focus on commercial installation and the International Residential Code (IRC), whose scope is homes and townhomes.
Contact Matt if you want to become a member of the CDWG at mdobson@polymericexteriors.org
