Navigating Broward County Building Codes 2024: Essential Knowledge for Smart Homeowners Before Your Next Roofing Project
The Florida Building Code has undergone significant changes in 2024, and homeowners in Broward County need to understand these updates before hiring any roofing contractor. The implementation of the 8th edition of the Florida Building Code started in December 2023 and continues into the first six months of 2024, bringing crucial modifications that directly impact roofing projects throughout South Florida.
Major Code Changes Affecting Broward County Homeowners
The 8th Edition of the Florida Building Code include roofing updates in sections 1518.2.1, specifically addressing asphalt installation and underlayment. The revised guidelines now state that two layers of underlayment must be installed for asphalt shingles, metal roof panels or shingles, mineral surfaced roll roofing, slate, and slate-type shingles. This represents a significant change from previous requirements and affects virtually every residential roofing project.
One of the most impactful changes involves the elimination of certain aspects of the 25% roof replacement rule. Roofs built after March 2009 likely feature compliance with the 2007 edition of the Florida Building Code. So, the changes require homeowners to repair the damaged section of their roof instead of replacing it if there is damage exceeding 25%. However, homes built before March 2009, with no prior roof replacement, are still under the last 25% rule. Therefore, they must undergo a complete roof replacement if they experience damage exceeding 25% of the total surface area.
Broward County-Specific Requirements
With the new Edition of the FBC, roofers in Miami-Dade and Broward will now be able to freely install this option if the homeowner chooses it, referring to peel-and-stick underlayment that was previously restricted. In 1994, shortly after the overwhelming destruction caused by Hurricane Andrew in 1992, Miami-Dade and Broward adopted additional code requirements to address some of the more devastating property damages that occurred from the killer storm, including protections like reinforced garage doors and upgrades to exterior doors. Part of those additional code requirements prevented roofers in the two counties from using a peel-and-stick underlayment, citing additional homeowner expense when it’s necessary to repair or replace a roof.
For buildings located in unincorporated Broward County or in a city we contract with, a permit is required for a wide variety of construction, remodeling and repair work. This means homeowners must ensure their contractor obtains proper permits before beginning any roofing work.
What Homeowners Need to Know About Underlayment Requirements
The new code specifies strict requirements for underlayment materials and installation. The underlayment should be ASTM D226 Type II or ASTM D4869 Type III, Type IV, or ASTM D8257. Additionally, the installation involves applying a strip of underlayment for the first course, which is half the width of a full sheet, starting at the eaves and sufficiently fastened. A full sheet of reinforced underlayment is used for the second course, starting at the eave. Subsequent courses should overlap half the width of a full sheet plus 2 inches, with all successive courses overlapping half the width of a full sheet plus 1 inch.
Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor
When selecting a roofing contractor broward county homeowners trust, it’s essential to work with professionals who understand these new requirements. Aastro Roofing, a family-owned company serving Broward and Palm Beach Counties, exemplifies the type of contractor homeowners should seek. Aastro Roofing is your trusted roofing contractor in Broward & Palm Beach County, FL, offering expert roof repairs and replacements.
Aastro Roofing is managed and operated by family members who all have vested interest in the success of our company and the satisfaction of our customers, and they’re centrally located in Deerfield Beach. Their commitment to quality is evident in their core values: “Honest Costs: We’ll tell you the price in advance and there will be no hidden fees. You’ll know exactly how much your investment is worth. We Finish On Time: We do not overstay our welcome and work to finish projects in a timely manner. Constant Communication: You will be updated on each step throughout the process. Exceptional Materials: We use trusted brands and strong components for results that will last a long time”.
Questions to Ask Your Roofing Contractor
Before hiring any contractor, homeowners should verify their understanding of the 2024 code changes. Ask potential contractors about:
- Their knowledge of the new two-layer underlayment requirements
- Understanding of the modified 25% replacement rule
- Proper permit procedures for Broward County
- Experience with HVHZ (High-Velocity Hurricane Zone) requirements
- Use of approved materials meeting new ASTM standards
The Importance of Compliance
As these code changes come into effect, it is imperative for roofing contractors and homeowners alike to stay abreast of the latest regulations. Adhering to the updated guidelines ensures not only compliance with the law but also the longevity and integrity of roofing systems. As roofing technology and engineering become more sophisticated, state agencies like the Florida Building Commission and local governments such as the City of Jacksonville’s Building Inspection Division must adapt the Florida Building Code to ensure safety, proper installation procedures, and environmental considerations are maintained.
Non-compliance can result in failed inspections, costly rework, and potential safety hazards. Ensuring that your roofing team, especially project managers, understand these updates can help prevent issues passing code inspections.
Moving Forward with Confidence
The 2024 Broward County building code changes represent a commitment to improved safety and performance standards. By understanding these requirements and choosing knowledgeable contractors like Aastro Roofing, homeowners can ensure their roofing projects meet all current standards while providing long-lasting protection for their homes.
Our mission at Aastro Roofing Company is to provide the highest quality roofing solutions with exceptional customer service, ensuring the safety and satisfaction of every client. We are committed to using top-grade materials and the latest industry techniques to deliver durable, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing roofs. As a family-operated business, we prioritize building lasting relationships with our customers and treating each project with the care and attention it deserves.
Remember, investing in proper compliance with building codes isn’t just about meeting legal requirements—it’s about protecting your home, your family, and your investment for years to come.