Update on the Current Building and Energy Codes That Affect the Air Barrier Industry

Building and energy efficiency codes can have huge impact on the Air Barrier Industry, affecting the specification and installation of air and water-resistive barrier systems. Following the code change process is a daunting task and even apparently small changes can have a large impact. Building and Energy Codes are updated on a three-year cycle and we are at a transition period with the publication of ASHRAE 90.1-2025 and the finalization of the 2027 editions of both the International Building Code (IBC) and International Energy Efficiency Code (IECC). This presentation will have an overview of the revisions that were implemented over the past code cycle and some changes which will govern code development in the next cycle. Additionally the status of state and jurisdictional adoption will discussed.

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the status of building and energy code development
2. Understand changes to air barrier and water-resistive barrier requirements in the upcoming IBC-2027
3.  Understand changes to air barrier related provisions in ASHRAE-90.1-2025
4. Understand the status and environment for energy code adoption by states and jurisdictions.

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Theresa Weston, PhD, CPHC, CAPS, CGP, President, The Holt Weston Consultancy

Dr. Theresa Weston is a building science research professional specializing in the durability and energy efficiency of buildings. Theresa started The Holt Weston Consultancy in November 2020. Prior to starting her company, Dr Weston was a DuPont Laureate with Dupont Safety and Construction. Dr. Weston is an inventor on four U. S. patents.
Theresa received her Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Masters and PhD degrees in Chemical Engineering, both from the California Institute of Technology.
Dr. Weston is active in industry standard and code development at ASHRAE, ASTM and ICC. Dr. Weston has been awarded the DuPont Lavoisier Medal for Lifetime Technical Achievement, the ASHRAE Distinguished Service, Exceptional Service and Residential Service Awards, the Wagdy Anis Award from the Air Barrier Association of America, and the E. George Stern Award of Excellence from ASTM Committee E06.