The 2010 Florida Building Code is now in effect. 2010 you ask? Yes, the Florida Building Code (FBC) is updated every three years; however by the time it gets through the vetting process and officially adopted it generally runs in arrears by the time the code is put into affect. Clear as mud....right? Actually that statement is more accurate than not. The building officials and most design professionals are not completely clear as to what exactly the new code changes entail. The changes primarily have to do with "wind-load" calculations in relation to structural design standards and the location of the improvement. I could bore you with all kinds of industry jargon and code specifics, but the long and short of it is; windows and doors are required to be stronger and structural standards for the building doesn't change much and actually can be weaker than required in the previous code based on the new formula that determines the criteria.

Confused yet? Just be sure that if replacing your windows and doors (hopefully by a licensed contractor) that you pay especially close attention to the design pressures and whether or not they meet the engineering requirements for your home's location and orientation of the openings. Lowe's and Home Depot will sell you a window in a heartbeat and not have any liability as to wheather or not they meet the new code. Oh, and after they are installed, there are no returns!

The other changes to the code are primarily dealing with energy efficiency. If you change out an A/C system, there are more stringent duct sealing requirements. In addition, because of the new energy efficiency rating requirements (SEER), older systems will likely likely require a complete change out (air handler & condensing unit) since new and old are likely not compatible.