How do I meet the residential stretch code when making renovations to existing homes?
Existing homes being renovated or expanded have two choices when it comes to stretch code compliance. The performance option is to use a HERS rating, and the prescriptive option is to use the Energy Star Builders Option Package and the base IECC 2009 code where it is more stringent (for example in wall insulation). If the prescriptive option is chosen, then you only need to meet code for the systems that are being replaced. This means that adding a new efficient boiler does not require changing the windows, and adding wall and attic insulation does not require modifying the basement – although it may often make sense to combine measures where that is cost-effective.
