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 of all new residential and larger new commercial buildings, as well as residential renovations and additions that would normally trigger building code requirements.
Producing approximately 20 percent greater energy efficiency than the existing base energy code in new residential buildings, the Stretch Code will produce significant energy cost savings for homeowners.
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 and more comfortable, 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. On a monthly basis, the homeowner should save more in energy costs than any increase in their monthly mortgage payment.
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.
The Energy Committee has been working with Truro builders and realtors to understand these changes, and to supply builders with information and resources that will make them more competitive. Approached this way, in the final analysis, this will help make Truro a more affordable place to live.