[MassHistPres] Question about state building code for insulation/windows

[James Blauch Architect]

Since this work is associated with a historic building, I assume that an Architect is responsible for the construction documents of the work.  He should be addressing this issue.

 

Depending on the extent of work required, due to the fire damage, the windows may or may not be required by code to be replaced.  Should replacement be required, the State Building Code allows non-code complying windows to be used, as long as a finding and this recommendation is made by an Architect or similar professional.  This is NOT directly allowed to the owner of the property, unless it includes this finding/recommendation.

 

The current edition of the State Building Code is the 9th edition, which has been in effect since October 2017.  Historical 9and existing) buildings are governed by the 2015 IEBC International Existing Building Code, with MA amendments.  Chapter 12 is for Historic Buildings.  And paragraph 1201.2 addresses the mentioned findings/recommendations (i.e. Report).  You might also want to look at paragraph 1202.3 Unsafe Conditions which essentially states that if the building official finds an unsafe condition(s) to be remedied and no work is required beyond what is required to remedy the unsafe condition(s).

 

Good luck.

 

Sincerely:

 

James Blauch Architect

Historic Preservation & Restoration Architect

284 North Avenue

Weston, MA  02493-2138

 

Cell:  508-868-8095

Email: JamesBlauch_Architect at verizon.net <mailto:JamesBlauch_Architect at verizon.net> 

Registered in MA & SC

 

From: MassHistPres <masshistpres-bounces at cs.umb.edu> On Behalf Of Ralph Slate
Sent: Tuesday, October 15, 2019 4:26 PM
To: masshistpres at cs.umb.edu
Subject: [MassHistPres] Question about state building code for insulation/windows

 

A contractor has made the claim that in order to do repairs to a property (from fire damage), he MUST replace the windows because current code requires it. His exact quote on the application is:

 

"Due to the fire we must remove the plaster and replace the wiring, plumbing, and insulate to meet the newer requirements. The remaining windows are single-pane and cannot be sealed sufficiently ,,, especially the window weight cavity".

 

Is anyone aware of changes to the building code that REQUIRE replacing windows versus single pane + storms, particularly focusing on the weight cavities?

 

Thanks,

 

Ralph Slate

Springfield, MA

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