Section 1609 Wind Loads
and roof-to-wall connection provisions were expanded to all applicable structures with wood decks. The trigger for the roof diaphragm evaluation was changed to deck replacement, not reroofing. The use of salvaged tile for repairs was clarified. Also added were more stringent sheathing requirements for new residential construction. The new ASCE 7-16 Reference Standard with its additional roof zones and increased pressures was implemented as well. The adoption of this burdensome standard was strongly opposed and almost successfully eliminated from adoption due to testimony by FRSA and many other roofing industry interests. In the end, we convinced a majority of the Roofing TAC and Commission members of our concerns, however we fell just short of the super-majority votes needed. Most contractors realize just how disrupting its adoption has been.
Looking Ahead
We are currently in the process of adopting the 2023 8th Edition of the FBC. Our proposed modifications have all been submitted. No additional new modifications can be proposed. The potential changes should not be too onerous depending on how successful we are in helping to shape their adoption. The likely adoption of ASCE 7-22 will return us to three roof zones again and will reduce some of the highest pressures. This will also require a review of the FRSA-TRI tile manual. One other major issue for FRSA is changes in underlayment sections of the HVHZ portion of the code. The goal is to bring the improved underlayment 26
FLORIDA ROOFING | May 2022
and secondary water barrier provisions up to the standards used in the rest of Florida. The roofing industry will be well served by consistent requirements throughout Florida. The residents, insurers and insureds in all of Florida deserve the same level of protection and the option of choosing the best secondary water barriers. When another major storm hits that area, the currently weaker requirements in the HVHZ have the potential to affect all of Florida through property insurance rate increases, insurance availability and the need to bail out Citizen’s policies. The renowned Colorado State University meteorologists predict 19 tropical cyclones this year with nine of them reaching hurricane strength. As this review of the previous hurricanes demonstrates, Florida continues to be in the crosshairs of these storms. They can and do strike all areas of the state. If we remain vigilant and continue to install more resilient roof systems, we can be a big part of lessening the economic impact and, more importantly, to help reduce the personal upheaval of being displaced from your home. FRM Mike Silvers, CPRC is owner of Silvers Systems Inc. and is consulting with FRSA as Technical Director. Mike is an FRSA Past President, Life Member and Campanella Award recipient and brings over 40 years of industry knowledge and experience to FRSA’s team.