Reroofing in the 2024 International Existing Building Code IEBC

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Let's simplify the 2024 IEBC (International Existing Building Code) requirements for reroofing to make it more understandable. Reroofing involves either replacing an old roof or adding a new layer on top of it, and these rules are set to ensure that the work is done safely and effectively. Here’s a breakdown:

General Requirements for Reroofing (Section 705):​

• Materials and Methods: When you're fixing up or replacing a roof, you need to follow the rules in Chapter 15 of the International Building Code (IBC). This ensures that the materials and the way they’re put on the roof are up to standard.
• Exceptions:
  1. Low-Slope Roofs: If you’re working on a roof with a gentle slope, you don’t have to meet the usual slope requirements if your roof drains water well and meets certain safety criteria.
  2. Drainage Systems: You don’t always need to add secondary (emergency) drainage systems if your roof already has good drainage, but you can't remove any existing ones unless you replace them.

Specific Situations (Sections 705.2 and 705.3):​

• Roof Replacement (705.2): When you replace a roof, you usually have to strip it down to the base. But there are exceptions, such as if there's an ice barrier that's still good, or if the roof's underlayment is in decent shape and can support more roofing.
• Roof Recover (705.3): This is when you put a new roof layer over an existing one. It’s okay under certain conditions, like using approved materials and methods, or when adding specific types of roof systems that support themselves and don’t depend on the old roof.
  • Not Allowed: You can’t just add a new layer if the old roof is soaking wet, falling apart, or if it's a material like slate or clay tile. Also, roofs with two or more layers already can't just have another layer added on.
• Special Case for Wood Shingles or Shakes (705.3.1): If putting a new roof over wood shingles creates a hidden fire risk, you need to cover them with a fire-resistant material first.

Reusing Old Materials (Section 705.4):​

• Tiles and Slate: You can reuse old tiles and slates unless they’re damaged. But don’t reuse metal parts (like flashings) if they’re rusted or damaged.

Flashings (Section 705.5):​

• Reconstruction: When redoing flashings (the parts that keep water from getting into your roof at joints), follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. If you're sticking stuff to metal flashings, prime them first to make sure everything sticks properly.

In essence, the 2024 IEBC gives clear guidelines on how to properly replace or repair a roof, emphasizing safety, proper drainage, and the use of approved materials and methods. It’s designed to ensure that roofs are safe, durable, and properly installed to handle the elements.