Improved energy efficiency is a major focus in building design and construction with the evolution of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). Due to its beneficial thermal performance values, foam plastic insulating sheathing (FPIS) is one of many products used, either alone or in combination with conventional sheathing and between the studs insulation. The code compliant use of FPIS for energy code applications also requires consideration of other factors such as appropriate methods for connection of claddings through FPIS materials* of various thicknesses and various substrates.

*Always install FPIS per the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

Tools & Education
New
Description

This program presents energy code requirements, addresses moisture control principles and building code requirements, and then specifically focuses on details to integrate windows and cladding efficiently and effectively with continuous insulation, particularly foam plastic insulated sheathings. While this course focuses on above-grade walls of cold-formed steel construction, it also has applicability to other types of wall construction.

Description

Originally presented by Jay Crandell, PE, for the IIBEC International Convention in September 2021, this updated presentation reviews the research and latest prescriptive code requirements for attaching claddings through a layer of exterior continuous insulation. It also presents a generalized design procedure that can allow various types of connections through foam plastic insulating sheathing, including the attachment of cladding, furring, and even structural components like roof and deck ledgers. 

Description

This research report addresses issues surrounding code compliance and consideration of factors such as appropriate methods for connection of claddings through FPIS materials by reviewing current knowledge supporting solutions that are now recognized in the 2015 and 2018 editions of the International Building Code (IBC) and the International Residential Code (IRC).

New
Description

This Quick Guide outlines a step-by-step process to ensure vinyl siding is properly specified and installed when applied over FPIS ci for a durable and code-compliant installation. View the full Quick Guide Library.

Description

This Quick Guide outlines steps to comply with Energy Code ci requirements and Building Code requirements for cladding connections to steel frame walls.

Description

This Quick Guide outlines steps to comply with Energy Code ci requirements and Building Code requirements for cladding connections to wood frame walls.

Description

Changes in the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) from 2009 to 2012 have resulted in an increase in minimum insulation levels required for residential buildings. Not only are the levels increased, but the use of exterior rigid insulation has become part of the prescriptive code requirements. With more jurisdictions adopting the 2012 IECC, builders will be required to incorporate exterior insulation in the construction of their exterior wall assemblies.

Best Practices
New

In an article for Vinyl Siding Institute, Jay Crandell, P.E. highlights some key resources to help with code compliance when considering combined applications of vinyl siding (including insulated vinyl siding) and foam plastic insulating sheathing (FPIS) products on wood frame walls.

Additional Information

This DrJ Research Report provided the basis for the current Quick Guide on Cladding Connections to Steel Frame Walls, published in July 2021.

This DrJ Research Report provided the basis for the current Quick Guide on Cladding Connections to Wood Frame Walls, published in November 2021.

This DrJ Research Report provided the basis for the current Quick Guide on Code-Compliant Vinyl Siding Applications over FPIS ci, published in December 2021.