By: Rick Olson, TRI President
International Energy Conservation Code
The start of 2023 saw a significant number of proposed code revisions for the 2024 code cycles. The IECC code committees for steep slope applications focused on a significant increase of the 3-year Solar Reflectance (SRI) for roofing materials to help reduce energy consumption. The proposed changes would have reduced the overall available colors in the steep slope markets towards a threshold of white roofs only over the next 2 code cycles. The TRI Alliance in collaboration with the Asphalt Roofing Manufactures Association (ARMA) provided ongoing comments to help stop this action without further discussions and justifications for costs and energy benefits. While we prevailed in our efforts to stop the code revision, we will be monitoring the topic for future revisions.
Florida Insurance Industry in Freefall for Policy Holders
The State of Florida through Governor Gov. Ron DeSantis is trying to address the insurance freefall that is occurring. As the TRI Alliance we are working to understand the changes for coverage, assignment of benefits and insurance fraud issues that are challenging the residential markets in Florida. In collaboration with our partner the Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Contractors Association Inc. (FRSA) we are identifying ways to help reduce potential claim costs through improved installation techniques, repair options and long-term maintenance programs.
TRI Alliance Installation Guide Update
This summer the TRI Alliance will be releasing our new 2023 version of our industry based main installation guide “Concrete and Clay Roof Tile Installation Manual” designed for all areas outside of Florida. This manual carries a formal IAPMO code issued evaluation report. The new manual will offer improved color drawings and language to reflect the ASCE 7-22 wind code provisions. This will replace our current 2015 version.
TRI Alliance issues new Technical Bulletins for Contractors
In response to our contractors feedback for additional storm damage options, the TRI Alliance developed a new technical bulletin – Post Storm Event – Considerations For Repairing Damaged Concrete and Clay Roofing Tiles – Tech Bulletin 2022-01 . The goal is to help contractors after roof inspections, to identify repair options beyond a full roof replacement. As we continue to work with our members and the insurance industry, we hope to create additional bulletins to help improve roof installation and repair techniques. Our full list of bulletins can be found at https://tileroofing.org/industry/technical-briefs/
For more information, or to become involved on out TRI Alliance Government Committee please visit our website at www.tileroofing.org