Been digging into Decra roofing lately, and I'm kinda stuck between relying on ICC-ES reports or just sticking strictly to local building codes. ICC approvals seem pretty thorough and standardized, which is great for consistency and peace of mind. But then again, local codes are tailored specifically to our area's climate and conditions, so maybe they're more practical in the long run?
I talked to a contractor buddy of mine, and he swears by ICC because it simplifies inspections and paperwork. But my neighbor (who just redid his roof last summer) says local codes saved him from some headaches down the road—something about wind uplift requirements being stricter locally.
Honestly, I'm leaning toward ICC just because it seems simpler, but I dunno...maybe I'm missing something important here? Curious what route others have taken and why you went that way.
"But my neighbor (who just redid his roof last summer) says local codes saved him from some headaches down the road—something about wind uplift requirements being stricter locally."
Had a similar experience here after a big storm. ICC reports are great for streamlining paperwork, but they're not always dialed into specific local quirks—like our crazy wind gusts. Local codes caught a couple details ICC didn't fully address, saved me some headaches later on. I'd say double-check with your local inspector before committing fully either way...
Had a similar run-in myself. ICC standards are solid, no doubt, but they're generalized to cover broad areas. Local codes, on the other hand, often factor in those oddball regional conditions—like the wind gusts you mentioned—that ICC might overlook.
Exactly my experience. I'd trust local inspectors first, even if it means jumping through an extra hoop or two. Better safe than chasing shingles down the street later..."Local codes caught a couple details ICC didn't fully address..."
Totally agree that local details make a big difference, especially when weather gets weird. ICC guidelines are a good baseline, but local inspectors usually have seen enough roofs fly off to know better... Learned that the hard way after a surprise inspection flagged some wind rating stuff ICC didn't mention. Curious though, has anyone had the opposite happen—local codes feeling outdated or overly cautious compared to ICC standards?
Local codes definitely have their merits, especially for wind and weather specifics, but ICC standards aren't just about convenience—they're also about consistency and proven performance. I've seen cases where local codes lag behind newer tech or materials, making ICC a more reliable benchmark. Ideally, you'd cross-reference both, but if pushed, I'd trust ICC first and then double-check local amendments for any stricter requirements.
