International Building Code (IBC)
The IBC regulates all types of construction except detached one- and two-family
dwellings and townhouses not more than three stories high. The IBC addresses minimum
requirements for preserving the public health, safety and general welfare of the
occupants of new and existing buildings or structures.
A majority of roofing-related code requirements are provided in IBC Chapter 15,
"Roof Assemblies and Rooftop Structures." Attic ventilation requirements are provided
in Chapter 12, "Interior Environment." Chapter 13, "Energy Efficiency," requires
buildings be designed and constructed for energy efficiency in accordance with the
International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). Provisions in the IECC include the
minimum thermal insulation requirements for roof systems. IBC Chapter 16, "Structural
Design Requirements," provides wind-load resistance requirements for roof systems.
Below-grade dampproofing and waterproofing requirements are found in IBC Chapter
18, "Soils and Foundations."
According to the International Code Council, the developer and publisher of the
IBC, state and local jurisdictions in 50 states and Washington, D.C., use one of
several versions of the IBC as the technical basis for their adopted building codes.