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Proposed Amendment TECH-2005-08

Specifications for vented crawlspaces in the Reference and Rated Homes

Proponent: Philip Fairey, Florida Solar Energy Center

Proposed Changes: Modify Table 303.4.1(1) to add a specification for the configuration of crawlspaces in the Reference and Rated Homes, modify the specification for basement and crawlspace walls to delete crawlspace walls and specify wall insulation requirements only for conditioned basements; and delete the column for crawlspace wall insulation in Table 303.4.1(2).

Justification: The International Residential Code (IRC) specifies minimum ventilation requirements for crawlspaces (IRC 408.1). RESNET Standards should respect this code requirement. Incorporating the proposed specification for crawlspace configuration requires that crawlspaces be separated from basements in Table 303.4.1(1) and eliminates the need for crawlspace wall insulation specification in Table 303.4.1(2). The specification on basement walls is further modified for clarity by specifying “conditioned” basements because unconditioned basement walls are not required to be insulated to any specific level, rather the floor of the space above an unconditioned basement is required to be insulated in accordance with “Above-grade floors over unconditioned spaces” requirement.

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