The Model Energy Code – How it Pertains to Your Addition

by | Jun 3, 2016 | Technical Knowledge

Additions and renovations are required to meet the same strict codes as a new home would.   Being able to design creatively while still working within these requirements requires a knowledgeable team of architects and designers.

What is the Model Energy Code?

The Model Energy Code (MEC) contains energy efficiency criteria for new residential and commercial buildings, and additions to existing buildings.  It includes the structures ceilings, walls, floors and foundations, as well as the mechanical, lighting and power systems.

Its major focus is on home insulation, which is climate-specific based on where you live.  It also focuses on restricting air leakage, installing temperature controls, and insulating ducts and pipes, along with other energy-saving priorities.

What’s Important for Me to Know as a Homeowner?

MEC enforcement for the state of Virginia is mandatory, and all towns, cities, and counties must comply with the energy code.  One of the advantages to this is that your addition will be more energy-efficient, leading to savings on utility bills and increased comforts.

One of the disadvantages of the MEC is that homeowners aren’t easily able to research the various requirements for being MEC compliant.  It’s important to check with your design build firm or contractor to ensure that they have the knowledge and tools to work within these constraints.

The Sun Advantage

An experience we’ve run into time and time again is that being MEC compliant can feel restrictive – that is if you don’t know how to work innovatively within the code.  Our designers work with professionals in the mechanical field to ensure that our custom design is not only beautiful but balances the required energy envelope rather than simply assuming the minimum requirements.  You’ll get the look and feel you desire while maximizing your long-term return on investment.

The Bottom Line

The MEC was designed to address the energy crisis of the 1970s, and affects both new home designs and existing home additions.  If you’re considering an addition, make sure to inquire about these standards and how your designer is going to work within them to give you the remodel you deserve.

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Sun Design transformed our "cookie cutter" house into a spectacular, unique home. Working with Ericka was a delight - her confidence and fun personality made the process enjoyable. Ours was a complete remodel - kitchen, family room, powder room, upstairs bathrooms, and some primary bedroom work. We loved working with Sun Design so much that we will be working with them again in the future when we are ready for an addition that will add a garage and in-law suite. Highly recommend!

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We had a fairly big project to build out part of our house. Sun Design has done a phenomenal job so far. We are getting close to complete. The design process was very collaborative and the execution of the build has gone well so far. Every part of the experience has been top quality and the team we are working with is amazing. The team is expensive but they are able to walk you through where every cent goes and why and they will look at different options to try to help reduce cost. They are well worth every penny. I would want to use Sun Design for any future projects and I highly recommend them.

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