Navigating Bergen County’s 2024 Building Code Updates: What Every Property Owner Needs to Know About New Roofing Requirements
As Bergen County continues to evolve its building standards, property owners and contractors must stay current with the latest roofing code requirements that took effect in 2024. These updates, part of New Jersey’s comprehensive building code revision cycle, introduce important changes that affect both residential and commercial roofing projects throughout the region.
Understanding New Jersey’s Building Code Update Cycle
New Jersey follows a three-year building code update cycle, with the next major update anticipated in 2024 transitioning to the 2021 editions of the International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC). These codes, updated every three years by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, apply to all building types across the state, encompassing residential and commercial buildings for both existing and new constructions.
For Bergen County property owners, understanding these changes is crucial for ensuring compliance and avoiding costly delays or violations during roofing projects.
Key Roofing Code Changes for 2024
Enhanced Drainage Requirements
Where roof drains are required, secondary (emergency overflow) roof drains or scuppers must be provided where the roof perimeter construction extends above the roof in such a manner that water will be entrapped if the primary drains allow buildup for any reason. Overflow drains having the same size as the roof drains shall be installed with the inlet flow line located 2 inches above the low point of the roof, or overflow scuppers having three times the size of the roof drains and having a minimum opening height of 4 inches shall be installed in the adjacent parapet walls.
Chimney and Penetration Standards
A cricket or saddle shall be installed on the ridge side of any chimney or penetration greater than 30 inches wide as measured perpendicular to the slope. Cricket or saddle coverings shall be sheet metal or of the same material as the roof covering. This requirement helps prevent water infiltration around large roof penetrations, a common source of leaks and structural damage.
Roof Recovery Limitations
Roof recover using asphalt shingles over an existing asphalt shingle roof is not allowed if there are two layers present already. This limitation ensures proper structural integrity and prevents excessive weight loads on roofing systems.
Fire Safety Classifications
Class A, B or C roofing shall be installed in jurisdictions designated by law as requiring their use or where the edge of the roof is less than 3 feet from a lot line. Class A, B and C roofing by this section to be listed shall be tested in accordance with ASTM E108 or UL 790. These fire safety requirements are particularly important in Bergen County’s densely populated areas where properties are often in close proximity to one another.
Material and Installation Standards
Roof assemblies shall be of materials that are compatible with each other and with the building or structure to which the materials are applied. Roof covering materials shall conform to the applicable standards listed in this chapter and shall be delivered in packages bearing the manufacturer’s identifying marks and approved testing agency labels required.
Roof coverings shall be applied in accordance with the applicable provisions of this section and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Unless otherwise specified in this section, roof coverings shall be installed to resist the component and cladding loads specified in Table R301.2(2), adjusted for height and exposure.
Professional Licensing and Compliance
New Jersey roofing codes require that the roofer be licensed and insured, and that the roof materials and systems be approved and labeled, and that the roof installation and repair be done according to the manufacturer’s instructions and specifications. This emphasizes the importance of working with qualified professionals who understand both state and local requirements.
Climate-Specific Considerations
These roofing codes establish minimum criteria for roof design, materials, installation, inspection, and upkeep. They also address challenges specific to New Jersey’s climate and environment, including wind, snow, ice, rain, hail, fire, solar considerations, and energy efficiency measures. Bergen County’s unique weather patterns, including nor’easters and summer storms, make these considerations particularly relevant for local property owners.
Choosing the Right Roofing Professional
When planning a roofing project in Bergen County, it’s essential to work with experienced professionals who understand both the updated building codes and local requirements. Whether you’re dealing with a residential roof replacement, commercial roofing project, or emergency repairs, selecting qualified roofing bergen county nj contractors ensures your project meets all current compliance standards.
Planning Your Next Roofing Project
As a roofing contractor, you should be familiar with all international building codes, as well as your local codes. And because codes are often amended, it’s a good idea to check the IRC and IBC for changes at the beginning of each three-year period to help avoid an improper installation that could cost your company time and money.
For property owners, this means working with contractors who stay current with code changes and can navigate the permitting process efficiently. Before beginning any roofing work, ensure your contractor is familiar with Bergen County’s specific requirements and has experience with the updated 2024 building codes.
The 2024 building code updates represent New Jersey’s commitment to improving safety, quality, and environmental protection in construction practices. By understanding these requirements and working with qualified professionals, Bergen County property owners can ensure their roofing projects meet all current standards while protecting their investment for years to come.