What is the Stretch Code?
The optional Stretch Code is an appendix to the Massachusetts Building Code approved by the Board of Building Regulations and Standards in May 2009. In communities that adopt it, the Stretch Code increases the energy efficiency requirements for all new residential and many new commercial buildings, as well as residential renovations and additions that would normally trigger building code requirements.
Requiring approximately 20 percent greater energy efficiency than the existing base energy code in new residential buildings and in new commercial buildings, the Stretch Code will produce significant energy cost savings for homeowners and businesses that occupy these buildings.
Expected to become the standard in 2012
Many of the changes in the Stretch Code have been endorsed by the US Department of Energy (DOE). DOE has put forward the core of the commercial Stretch Code as the basis for the next International Energy Efficiency Code in 2012. It won't be long before the Stretch Code becomes the norm.
Tom Wingard, Truro Building Commissioner, reports that these trends at the state and national level are indeed moving forward. In fact, the Stretch Code has already been adopted in 64 cities and towns (as of 11/19/2010).
The Stretch Code is Common Sense Building
Many builders and homeowners are already following the Stretch Code guidelines based on common sense. The cost of adding additional insulation, when installed during the building process, is small compared to the energy savings that will be achieved over time. In addition, in a windy environment such as Truro, the building will be quieter, as well as warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. It also provides an excellent shield for the homeowner against rising energy rates with a payback usually less than 5 years.
This stretch code also addresses the significant energy savings possible from utilizing the more efficient HVAC equipment currently available in the marketplace.
The Mass. DOER website page has more information on the Stretch Code. Also, the Truro Energy Committee will be reporting more on this in the months to come.