An updated specification establishing minimum performance requirements for sunrooms has been jointly released by the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA), the National Patio Enclosure Association (NPEA) and the National Sunroom Association (NSA). The updated specification references the 2009 International Residential and Energy Conservation Codes, and contains a number of other necessary updates. The new specification replaces the original one that has been in use since it was released by the three organizations in 2002.

“Prior to the publication of this document, there were very few specific definitions and requirements in existence for sunrooms, solariums and screened porches or patio structures in general in the building code spectrum,” says Allan Hite, director of engineering and product development at Comfort Line, Ltd. “The development of these specifications has been an ongoing process, and all three organizations hope that through this update, the construction community will better understand these products and their requirements in order to address consumer demands and code requirements,” says Hite, an active partner in developing the document through the AAMA Sunroom Committee.

Lyndon Johnson, senior architectural sales of Harvey Building Products, Inc., and president of the National Sunroom Association (NSA) agrees. “The document was originally developed to give building officials, contractors and manufacturers a common understanding of what is required by the codes for a given sunroom project,” says Johnson. “The variety of use – from year-round to seasonal – changes the code requirements for sunrooms significantly. The newly updated specification references the 2009 codes, which makes it immediately useful for the construction community.”

Consisting of eight sections, the document includes references, definitions and terminology for the interpretation of various provisions. The document also defines uses, occupancies and limitations for the types of construction covered. The minimum performance requirements for sunroom fenestration products, structural design criteria, thermal performance criteria and general requirements for sunrooms are also outlined.

“This specification is an essential document for the sunroom industry because it clearly defines the various use categories and performance requirements for these structures,” adds Johnson.

The AAMA/NPEA/NSA 2100-11, Specifications for Sunrooms, is available to AAMA members at a cost of $10 for download, $20 for a paper copy and $25 for a CD. Non-members may purchase the document at a cost of $30 to download, $60 for a paper copy and $66 to receive a CD. To order AAMA/NPEA/NSA 2100-11, visit the AAMA online Publication Store.

Filed under: AAMA, ASSOCIATION NEWS, Homes + Neighborhoods, Products