Understanding the Development of Codes and Standards in Roofing

By Adam Cabrera. 

In the world of roofing, codes and standards are the invisible forces guiding your work and how you run your business.  

While codes and standards may seem tedious, their impact on building resilience, performance, and safety can’t be overstated. In a recent episode of Roofing Road Trips, guests Mark Gies and Dustin Haddock from S-5! discuss the importance of building codes and standards in the roofing industry. 

Mark, director of product management at S-5!, worked in solar for more than 14 years and has experience being involved extensively with the codes and standards surrounding that industry. In the episode he emphasizes how the incorporation of new technologies, like solar panels, requires continuous updating of building codes.  

“ASCE 7-16 was the first-time solar panels were sectioned in ASCE 7... which is still being adopted actually," Mark explains. 

Similarly, Dustin, VP of research and development at S-5!, talked about the role codes play in ensuring safety, especially during life-threatening events. “When you get into life safety events, that's when the code has to step in and make the minimum requirements,” he stated. When it comes to safety, he suggests that codes should be supplemented by precise standards, facilitating a smooth and safe installation process. 

On the other hand, Dustin also identified areas where the industry has had to play catch-up due to code mandates lacking corresponding test methods or standards, particularly with regards to solar panel installations and snow retention. Building officials who work proactively with manufacturers to understand and adapt to new roofing technologies, despite gaps in code language, are what allow for the development of new and better code. “It’s sort of a faster way of building code so that projects can still take place,” Dustin said. 

Learn more about codes and standards and their effects on the industry from Mark and Dustin in the new Roofing Road Trips Episode.