Tulsa, Oklahoma is a city that experiences diverse weather conditions ranging from intense heat to freezing temperatures, heavy rainfalls, and even tornadoes. These extreme weather conditions make it necessary for the city to have stringent roofing codes and regulations. The main aim of these rules is to ensure safety and durability in all roofing projects.
The City of Tulsa has laid out specific codes for roof replacement projects under Title 51- International Building Code (IBC) of their municipal code. These regulations apply to both residential and commercial properties. All roofing contractors must adhere strictly to these codes when undertaking any roof replacement project within the city limits.
One crucial regulation stipulates that all roofs should be designed to withstand local wind speeds. Given Tulsa’s location in ‘tornado alley’, this means roofs must be built strong enough to withstand winds up to 90 miles per hour as per IBC requirements. This involves using high-quality materials and appropriate installation techniques.
Roofing materials are also regulated by the Tulsa building code. Asphalt shingles, which are commonly used due to their affordability and durability, must meet certain standards set by ASTM (American Society for Testing Materials). For instance, they should pass the ASTM D7158 Class H or ASTM D3161 Class F wind tests.
Moreover, another important regulation pertains to fire resistance. Roofs in Tulsa need a class A fire rating – which is the highest level of protection against fire penetration and spread on roofs according to Underwriters Laboratories (UL) test procedures.
Another key part of Tulsa’s roofing codes relates specifically to replacements: no more than two layers of roof coverings are allowed on buildings with a slope greater than 2:12 pitch; if there are already two layers present, they must be removed before installing new material.
Furthermore, proper ventilation is mandatory under the local building code as it helps prevent damage caused by moisture build-up such as mold growth or rotting wood structures beneath the shingles. The code requires a minimum of 1 square foot of ventilation for every 150 square feet of attic space.
Tulsa’s roofing codes also require that all roof replacement tulsa projects be inspected by city officials to ensure compliance with the regulations. These inspections typically occur after the old roof has been removed and the new underlayment installed, and again when the project is complete.
In conclusion, Tulsa’s roofing codes and regulations are designed to ensure that roofs can withstand local weather conditions, are fire-resistant, properly ventilated, and do not have too many layers. These rules contribute significantly to the safety and longevity of buildings in Tulsa. It is crucial for homeowners and contractors alike to familiarize themselves with these requirements before starting any roof replacement project.
Best Quality Roofing & Construction
6859 S Canton Ave Suite B, Tulsa, OK 74136
918-731-2312