Ekotrope’s new ‘code check’ feature: Meet international, national and local building codes at the touch of a button

Building codes are key in building design and development: they ensure public safety and frequently play a role in lowering carbon footprints. But for architects, building designers and developers, the challenge of knowing - and meeting - this range of requirements is, quite simply, a pain.From the time we spend speaking to our users, we knew there was a demand for a feature that would simplify this process. So we added a new feature to Ekotrope, our design optimization software for residential and commercial buildings. Called ‘code check’, it’s available immediately to all Ekotrope users, enabling them to effectively review and meet local and national building codes.It’s easy to use: Ekotrope users simply review or submit a plan, and then click for a code comparison.

The software calculates all requirements within the appropriate code, reviews full details including construction, materials and structure of the plan, and then advises on whether the plan meets the required energy codes. It also calculates and lists any necessary unfulfilled requirements for the code to be met.Currently we have included a number of default building codes, including the International Code Council’s IECC 2009 and Massachusetts 8th Edition Energy Code. We’ll be adding in new codes from client requests and from what we see happening in the market - so far our initial conversations with clients have included suggestions including codes from the International Building Code (IBC), and the International Residential Code. We’ll update this blog as we add new codes.

‘Code check’ feature also considers both prescriptive and performance paths. In short, prescriptive paths outline specific component building standards to be adhered to, while performance codes require that a whole building or structure performs to a certain standard (typically of a comparable or higher level than the same building built to prescriptive code). Many code bodies use both prescriptive and performance paths, for example the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC); the source of many building energy codes used around the world.Performance paths frequently enable trade-offs that deliver a less expensive building envelope. In our experience we would estimate that for a 2,000ft 2 home, the performance path might be up to $5,500 less expensive to meet than the prescriptive path.Want to hear more? To learn more about Ekotrope’s software product suite, get additional information on the new code check feature, or to request a free demo, please email info@ekotrope.com or visit our homepage at www.ekotrope.com.