Every three years, the Florida Building Code is updated, requiring all roof companies in the state to learn any new roofing laws included in the update and start implementing them.

The 8th edition of the FBC went into effect on December 31, 2023, with Florida roofing services having six months to fully adopt those new rules.

Below is a brief explanation of those changes that roof contractors must follow to comply with the Florida Building Code and ensure safety for their many roofing customers.

1. Underlayment Installation Updates

The current FBC includes multiple updates on underlayment and how roof companies apply it with different roofing systems:

General Underlayment Installation - Roof contractors are now required to install two layers of ASTM D6757 underlayment, with a nail penetration of â…›” minimum, for all roofing installations as a general rule.
Asphalt Underlayment - Underlayment installed by roofing services under asphalt shingles or BUR must be ASTM D226 Type II or ASTM D4869 Type III, Type IV, or ASTM D8257 underlayment. There are also new specific instructions on the method by which it should be laid down and overlapped to provide adequate coverage and protection.
Steep Slope Underlayment - The language in the FBC about underlayment overlaps, adhesion, and nailing in multiple sections on steep slope application was clarified to eliminate application inconsistencies.
Underlayment With Mechanically Fastened Roof Tile Systems - The language in the FBC in this section no longer refers to “nail-on” underlayments, updating terminology to the current mortar and adhesive application.

2. The FBC 25% Roof Replacement Rule

Previously, roof companies were required to do a complete roofing replacement if more than 25% of a roof’s surface was damaged.

In the 8th Edition of the FBC, the rule has been updated to prevent circumstances that took advantage of its lack of clarity.

Now, roof contractors may repair a roof if the damage affects 25% of the roof as long as the roof was installed after March 1, 2009, as it will likely comply with FBC roofing material and installation requirements.

On the other hand, if the roof was installed before March 1, 2009, the previous requirement to replace the whole roof if there is 25% damage still applies.

3. FBC Guidelines on Solar Roofing Systems

As the popularity of energy-producing, cost-effective solar energy systems grows, the FBC is continuously adding more regulations to ensure every purchaser of these systems receives the safe, reliable, and energy-efficient solar system they are paying for.

Roofing services installing solar must adhere to some new solar roofing rules relating to equipment quality and safety, system power and design, underlayment installation, flashing type and installation, and more.

Respected Roof Contractors Know Florida Building Code Changes

Florida Building Code rules relating to roofing continuously change throughout the years to ensure roof companies always provide the best workmanship for their customers.

With extreme weather becoming more common in the state, adherence to updated FBC rules by roof contractors becomes more important with every safety update.

A respected Florida roofing service that stays informed and executes all work according to FBC rules is the best one to call, whether in need of maintenance, inspections, simple repairs, or a whole new roof!