Rescheck Additions Versus Alterations

This Reschexpert blog describes key differences between Rescheck Additions and Rescheck Alteration.  It also discusses instances when one or both might be suitable for your Rescheck project.  It was created by Reschexpert blog author Jobe Leonard who enjoys discussing differences in the types of Rescheck reports available.

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Navigating REScheck for Home Renovations: Understanding Additions vs. Alterations (FAQ)

Undertaking a home renovation, especially one involving significant insulation upgrades, often requires demonstrating compliance with local energy codes using tools like REScheck. However, a common point of confusion arises when classifying the project within the software: is it an “Addition” or an “Alteration”? This distinction is crucial, as it dictates the specific energy code requirements and calculation methods applied, ultimately determining whether your project passes or fails.

Let’s break down some frequently asked questions about REScheck for renovations, drawing insights from a recent customer interaction dealing with this exact challenge.

Q1: What is REScheck and why do I need it for my renovation?

A: REScheck is a free software program developed by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). It helps building professionals, contractors, and homeowners demonstrate compliance with the energy code requirements for residential buildings. If your renovation project involves changes to the building’s thermal envelope (walls, roofs, windows, foundations) or mechanical systems (HVAC, water heating), your local building department will likely require a REScheck report (or similar energy compliance documentation) to issue a building permit.

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Q2: What’s the difference between an “Addition” and an “Alteration” in REScheck?

A: This is where it gets tricky!

• An Addition typically refers to adding new conditioned square footage to an existing home. Think building a new bedroom wing or expanding the living room outwards.
• An Alteration refers to modifying existing components within the conditioned space of the home. This could include replacing windows, upgrading an HVAC system, or modifying existing wall or roof assemblies.

The key confusion, as seen in the customer interaction, is when an alteration involves significant work on existing envelope components.

Q3: My project doesn’t add any square footage. Why would it be considered an “Addition” for REScheck purposes?

A: This is a critical point that often surprises homeowners. While you aren’t adding square footage, if your “Alteration” project involves removing and replacing all of the insulation within a substantial portion of an existing thermal envelope component (like entire wall sections or the entire roofline), the energy code often requires that modified component to meet the energy efficiency standards for new construction in your climate zone.

In the REScheck software, applying “Addition” rules to the scope of work (even if physically within the existing footprint) might be the mechanism by which the software verifies that the substantially modified component meets current code standards. The “Alteration” pathway might be designed for less extensive work, like adding insulation over existing, or modifying a smaller section. When you effectively rebuild a wall or roof assembly with new insulation, it’s treated more like building a new section from an energy code perspective.

Q4: Does replacing or upgrading insulation require a REScheck report?

A: Yes, almost always. Changes to the insulation in your walls, roof, attic, or foundation directly impact the energy efficiency of your home’s thermal envelope. These are core components covered by energy codes, and modifying them typically triggers the need for compliance documentation like REScheck, especially when a permit is required.

Fix Compliance Failed Invalid SHGC or Project is not valid in Rescheck Web.

Q5: How does changing insulation types (like from batt to spray foam) affect my REScheck?

A: Significantly. Different insulation types have different R-values per inch, and the method of installation (e.g., filling a cavity completely, applying to the underside of a roof deck vs. attic floor) changes the calculation. Switching from traditional batt insulation to open-cell or closed-cell spray foam, especially when applied to the roofline instead of the attic floor, is a major change in how the building is insulated and air-sealed. REScheck needs to accurately reflect the R-value and assembly type of the new insulation being installed to calculate compliance correctly.

Q6: Why might my project fail REScheck as an “Alteration” but pass as an “Addition”?

A: This goes back to Question 3. The “Alteration” pathway might have certain limitations or calculation methods that don’t accommodate a project with the scope of completely replacing insulation in entire walls or the roof. The “Addition” pathway, while seemingly counter-intuitive for no added square footage, often applies the current, more stringent energy code requirements for that specific component (the wall or roof assembly being renovated). If your proposed new assembly (e.g., 2×6 wall with open-cell foam) meets the new construction requirement for your climate zone, it will pass under the “Addition” classification for that component, even if it wouldn’t satisfy the (perhaps less flexible or differently calculated) requirements under the “Alteration” path for that specific scope of work.

In essence, for extensive insulation replacement, the “Addition” classification in REScheck might be the correct technical method to prove the upgraded assembly meets current code, even within an existing structure.

Q7: What if my proposed insulation upgrade still fails REScheck, regardless of classification?

A: If your REScheck report shows failure, it means your proposed building assembly does not meet the minimum energy code requirements for your climate zone and project type (as classified in the software). You have a few options:

1. Increase Insulation: Add more insulation to achieve a higher R-value in the walls, roof, etc.
2. Improve Other Components: If using the Performance Method (which allows trade-offs), you might be able to improve other aspects of the home’s efficiency to compensate, such as upgrading windows to a lower U-factor, improving air sealing, or using more efficient HVAC.
3. Verify Scope and Classification: Double-check that the project scope is accurately entered into REScheck and that the correct classification (Addition vs. Alteration) is being used based on the nature and extent of the work, consulting with a REScheck professional or local code official if necessary.

Q8: What information is crucial to provide for an accurate REScheck report on a renovation?

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A: To get an accurate and compliant REScheck report for your renovation, provide detailed information, including:

• The project address and climate zone.
• Permit number(s) and dates (for documentation).
• A clear description of the scope of work (e.g., “replacing all wall insulation,” “insulating existing roofline,” “replacing windows”).
• Details of the existing components if they are remaining unchanged.
• Specific details of the new components being installed:
  • Wall assembly details (framing type, insulation type & R-value, sheathing, siding, drywall).
  • Roof/Ceiling assembly details (insulation type & R-value, ventilation strategy, assembly layers).
  • Window and door U-factors and SHGC values.
  • Foundation details (if applicable).
• The square footage of the areas being modified (walls, roof, etc.).

Conclusion:

Navigating REScheck for renovations can be complex, particularly when determining the correct “Addition” vs. “Alteration” classification for significant insulation upgrades. While counter-intuitive, extensive work within an existing structure may need to be modeled under “Addition” rules to demonstrate compliance with current energy code standards for the modified components. Always ensure your project scope is accurately represented in the software and consult with an energy code professional or your local building department if you encounter difficulties achieving compliance. Planning your insulation strategy early based on code requirements will help ensure a smoother permit process and a more energy-efficient home.  If you need a Rescheck created for you for an addition or alteration then email pdf plans, jobsite address, and square footage to service@rescheck.info.