BCAB #1548 - Required Caulking, Sentences 9.27.4.1.(1) and (2)

September 19, 2001

BCAB #1548

Re: Required Caulking, Sentences 9.27.4.1.(1) and (2)

Project Description

The subject is a townhouse building within the scope of Part 9 of the Building Code. The building incorporates a vinyl siding cladding system with no caulking provided between the siding and openings such as doors, window frames and trim.

Reason for Appeal

Sentences 9.2.4.1.(1) and (2) requires caulking be provided to prevent the entry of water into the structure and be provided between siding and adjacent door and window frames or trim, including sills, unless such locations are completely protected from the entry of rain.

Appellant's Position

The appellant contends the system he is using, a perimeter air/water seal at the back of the cladding/opening interface complies with the Code requirement (9.27.4.1.(2)) that "such locations are completely protected from the entry of rain." Therefore it is the appellants interpretation that caulking is not required.

Building Official's Position

The Building Official contends that the phrase "unless such locations are completely protected from the entry of rain" in Sentence 9.27.4.1.(2) refers to physical protection of an opening such as by a large overhang and not a protection of an opening by components of a cladding/flashing system.

Appeal Board Decision #1548

It is the determination of the Board that within the scope of Sentence 9.27.4.1.(2), the joints between the siding and the openings are required to be caulked. Other suitable alternatives, such as the application of Part 5, could be considered by the authority having jurisdiction utilizing Subsection 2.5 Equivalents.

George Humphrey, Chair