Building code question (Raleigh: custom home, contractor, inspections)

[djhartm]

We purchased a custom home that was built in 2002.

While replacing some rotted trim wood, I was surprised to discover the home has no vapor barrier between the OSB & the HardiePlank siding.

Wouldn't that be required, or is that a relatively new addition to the building code.

Home is located in unincorporated Wake (south Raleigh).

Thanks.

[Starglow]

I don't know about the current building code requirements, but a vapor barrier was not previously required. My neighbor had his house re-sided with Hardiplank and the contractor did not install any vapor barrier or Tyvek wrap although I think it does help reduce home energy costs.

[mbmitche]

You can post questions on the Wake County Inspection Forums which are moderated and answered by Wake County code officials at Inspections Forums

[carcrazy67]

All diagrams in the installation instructions for James Hardie horizontal lapsiding show the presence of a water resistive barrier. (Tyvek or similar product)

[MikeJaquish]

Originally Posted by carcrazy67

All diagrams in the installation instructions for James Hardie horizontal lapsiding show the presence of a water resistive barrier. (Tyvek or similar product)

...and the instructions defer to local code requirements.

It also says that Hardiplank can be applied directly to OSB.

[wheelsup]

Originally Posted by mbmitche

You can post questions on the Wake County Inspection Forums which are moderated and answered by Wake County code officials at Inspections Forums

Holy crap I had no idea that site existed. How awesome is that.

[MikeJaquish]

Originally Posted by mbmitche

You can post questions on the Wake County Inspection Forums which are moderated and answered by Wake County code officials at Inspections Forums

Excellent!

House Wrap - Is it required by code? - Building - Inspections Forums

[dmaidon]

Originally Posted by mbmitche

You can post questions on the Wake County Inspection Forums which are moderated and answered by Wake County code officials at [URL="http://wakeinspections.ipbhost.com/"]Inspections Forums[/URL]

The URL to the site changed on 5/2/14 to [URL="http://inspect.wakegov.com/"]Wake County Inspections Forums[/url]

[BraeField]

I discovered my house (Northeast Raleigh, NC) built in 2003 does NOT have a vapor barrier; my electric bill without using Heat/Air Condition is roughly $80-$100, but it quickly climbed to $400 during the winter months. I'm replacing my builder provided HVAC system; which was only good for 8-10 years. I looking at a Trane system.

[cheapdad00]

Originally Posted by BraeField

I discovered my house (Northeast Raleigh, NC) built in 2003 does NOT have a vapor barrier; my electric bill without using Heat/Air Condition is roughly $80-$100, but it quickly climbed to $400 during the winter months. I'm replacing my builder provided HVAC system; which was only good for 8-10 years. I looking at a Trane system.

I doubt the vapor barrier will make that much difference. Amount of insulation and having to run electric heat would be a larger impact. How big is your house? And is it a single unit for multiple floors?