We perform log home inspections here in NH and surrounding areas. One of the things we find our home inspection clients ask about is energy codes for log cabins.
It can be tough for log homes to meet the building codes’ standards. However, some states have actually found other solutions such as removing log homes from the regular regulations. Included in this list, you will find Maine, South Carolina, and Pennsylvania – but not all parts of Alaska In some other states, ‘prescriptive packages’ for logs have been introduced.
Furthermore, some states base their regulations on the 90.2 standard from the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers’ (ASHRAE). For these states, approval can be a little easier because there is a thermal mass provision included. As you can see, different states follow different guidelines so you will need to check with your the local municipality before making any drastic decisions. By contacting the NH state energy department, you should find all the information you need on energy codes.
While we do not inspect for codes, we do inspect to make sure the building is functional and brings you years of life an happiness. So if you need log home inspection, contact us!