Title 24 · California Energy Code
Insulation manufacturer certification, urea‑formaldehyde limits and retrofit attic rules
All insulation sold or installed in California must be certified by the State (manufacturer certification). Urea‑formaldehyde foam is strictly limited to exterior sidewalls and must have a 4‑mil vapor retarder between it and the interior. Retrofit attic insulation must bring the total attic R‑value to the code‑required level (e.g., R‑30 or R‑38 depending on climate zone) or fill the entire accessible attic if the space cannot physically hold the required R; contractors must give written certification to the customer that retrofit requirements were met.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English (controlling §)
All insulation sold or installed in California must be certified by the Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Household Goods and Services as to its thermal performance — § 110.8(a).
Urea‑formaldehyde foam may only be applied in exterior side walls and only if a 4‑mil plastic polyethylene (or equivalent) vapor retarder is installed between the foam and the interior — § 110.8(b). Certain referenced standards add material, testing and safety notice requirements.
All insulation must meet the applicable flame‑spread/smoke density rules of the California Building Code — § 110.8(c).
When insulating existing attics, ducts, or water heaters, the retrofit must meet the R‑value or performance requirements referenced by the Energy Code (single‑family → Section 150.0(a); multifamily ≤3 stories → Section 180.2(a)1); contractors who install insulation must provide written certification to the customer that the retrofit meets these requirements — § 110.8(d).
The single most important rule: All insulation must be certified by the State (manufacturer certification) before it can be sold or installed in California. § 110.8(a).
Requirements in detail
1) Manufacturer certification (what to expect)
- Who: the Manufacturer must submit certification statements to the Energy Commission/Executive Director that the product meets the Standards for Insulating Material. See the requirements for what the certification must include (manufacturer ID, product description, approved lab test results, QA program description, declaration and wording for the certification seal) — referenced in Sec. 12‑13‑1555 and identification rules in Sec. 12‑13‑1557.
- Timing: the Executive Director acknowledges receipt; certification is deemed to occur on acknowledgement or 45 days after receipt if no timely acknowledgment is sent.
- Labeling: insulation and packaging must carry a Commission‑approved statement or label certifying approved test results unless a specified shipping exception applies.
2) Urea‑formaldehyde foam (limits and installer obligations)
- Permitted application: exterior side walls only. § 110.8(b).
- Vapor retarder: 4‑mil polyethylene or equivalent plastic sheathing vapor retarder must be installed between the foam and interior space in all applications. § 110.8(b).
- Safety / testing standards: manufacturer / component certification rules, test and aging requirements, and maximum free formaldehyde limits are specified in the Standards for Insulating Material (see requirements such as free formaldehyde < 0.01% by weight for dry foam where exemptions apply and the mandatory safety notice).
- Sales prohibition: field‑applied urea formaldehyde foam sale/use is heavily restricted; consult the referenced Standards — the materials include a mandatory safety notice installers must give purchasers.
3) Flame spread / smoke density
- All insulating materials must be installed consistent with the flame spread and smoke density limits in the CBC (the Code for Building safety). § 110.8(c).
4) Retrofit installations (existing buildings)
- Attics: the total R‑value after retrofit must meet the applicable new‑construction R‑value requirement — for single‑family, follow Section 150.0(a); for multifamily (≤3 habitable stories), follow Section 180.2(a)1; contractor installers must provide written certification to the customer that the applicable retrofit requirements were met. § 110.8(d).
- Appendix A guidance (voluntary/clarifying) specifies typical attic retrofit targets: R‑38 in climate zones 1 and 16; R‑30 in all other climate zones for low‑rise residential attic retrofits (Appendix A6.205.3.4.1).
- Exception: if the accessible attic space is not large enough to hold the required R‑value, fill the entire accessible space with insulation provided it does not violate CBC provisions (Title 24 Part 2 §§ cited). § 110.8(d).
- Water heaters: external insulation on existing unfired storage tanks or solar back‑up tanks must be at least R‑3.5, or reduce heat loss to < 6.5 Btu/hr·ft² based on an 80°F water‑to‑air difference. § 110.8(d)2.
- Ducts: insulation installed on existing space‑conditioning ducts must comply with Section 605.0 of the California Mechanical Code (CMC) (referenced by § 110.8(d)3). § 110.8(d)3.
Quick decision table (decision‑relevant dimensions/values)
| Decision dimension | Value / Requirement | Code reference |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer certification required? | Yes — all insulation must be certified by Dept. of Consumer Affairs (Bureau of Household Goods & Services) | § 110.8(a) ; certification details Sec. 12‑13‑1555 |
| Urea‑formaldehyde allowed where? | Exterior side walls only; 4‑mil polyethylene (or equivalent) vapor retarder between foam and interior | § 110.8(b) |
| Urea‑formaldehyde free formaldehyde limit (exempt cert.) | < 0.01% free formaldehyde (dry foam) under referenced standards testing/aging conditions | Standards (Standards for Insulating Material) Secs. (e.g., § 1553/§1555) |
| Flame‑spread / smoke | Must meet CBC flame spread & smoke density limits | § 110.8(c) |
| Attic retrofit R‑value (guidance) | R‑38 (CZ 1 & 16); R‑30 (other CZs) — total R after addition | § 110.8(d) referencing Section 150.0(a) and Appendix A6.205.3.4.1 |
| Attic space too small exception | Fill entire accessible space with insulation if required R cannot be physically accommodated and no conflict with CBC | § 110.8(d) |
| Water heater retrofits | R‑3.5 minimum or heat loss < 6.5 Btu/hr·ft² (80°F Δ) | § 110.8(d)2 |
| Duct insulation retrofit | Comply with CMC § 605.0 | § 110.8(d)3 |
Exceptions & special cases
- Accessible attic space too small: you may fill the entire accessible attic instead of achieving the target R‑value so long as the installation does not conflict with the CBC (Title 24, Part 2) — § 110.8(d)1 exception.
- Manufacturer component exemption: manufacturers of primary components for urea formaldehyde may apply for certification under the Standards with specific testing and labeling conditions — see the Standards for Insulating Material (Sec. 1555/1553 language).
- Field labeling / bulk shipments: identification rules contain a limited shipping/bulk exception where bill‑of‑lading statements suffice (see Sec. 12‑13‑1557).
Common mistakes
- Assuming a product is compliant because it carries an R‑label but not checking that the manufacturer’s state certification exists or is current. Confirm the manufacturer certification statement and labeling per Sec. 12‑13‑1557.
- Installing urea‑formaldehyde in interior cavities, attics, or places other than exterior sidewalls — that violates § 110.8(b) and the safety notice requirements.
- Omitting the 4‑mil vapor retarder when using urea foam — the code requires that barrier in all applications. § 110.8(b).
- Failing to obtain or provide the contractor’s written certification to the customer when a contractor performs an attic, duct or water‑heater insulation retrofit. § 110.8(d).
- Ignoring flame‑spread requirements and installing insulation with inappropriate surface burning characteristics for the intended exposed application. § 110.8(c) and referenced Standards testing (ANSI/ASTM E84).
Worked example — attic retrofit with numbers
Scenario: Single‑family home (low‑rise) in a climate zone other than 1 or 16 has existing attic insulation of R‑19. The owner wants to retrofit so the attic meets the Energy Code retrofit requirement.
Apply the rule:
- The retrofit must produce a total R‑value that meets the single‑family requirement referenced by Section 150.0(a); Appendix guidance for most climate zones is R‑30 (see Appendix A6.205.3.4.1). § 110.8(d).
- Required added R = R‑30 (target) − R‑19 (existing) = R‑11. The installer must add insulation rated to supply at least R‑11 when combined with the existing material.
- Contractor responsibilities: if a contractor installs the insulation, they must certify in writing to the customer that the retrofit meets the applicable requirements of § 110.8(d).
Notes: If the attic were in Climate Zone 1 or 16, the target would be R‑38; if the attic cannot physically hold the target R, the entire accessible space must be filled instead (the exception in § 110.8(d)1).
Related provisions (quick reference)
- § 110.8(a) — Insulation certification by manufacturers (main requirement).
- § 110.8(b) — Urea formaldehyde installation restrictions (exterior sidewalls; 4‑mil vapor retarder).
- § 110.8(c) — Flame spread and smoke density compliance (CBC).
- § 110.8(d) — Installation of insulation in existing buildings (attics, water heaters, ducts; contractor certification).
- Section 150.0(a) — Prescriptive R‑value requirements for single‑family new construction (retrofits reference this).
- Section 180.2(a)1 — Multifamily (≤3 stories) prescriptive requirements referenced by § 110.8(d).
- Sec. 12‑13‑1555 — Certification statement contents and procedures (Standards for Insulating Material).
- Sec. 12‑13‑1557 — Identification / labeling requirements for insulation.
- Appendix A6.205.3.4.1 — Attic retrofit R‑value guidance (R‑38 CZ 1 & 16; R‑30 others).
- Standards for Insulating Material (Sec. 1553 et seq.) — material testing, free formaldehyde limit, safety notice content and component certification rules for urea foam.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Energy Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
§ 110.8 High relevance — show source text
SECTION 110.8—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR INSULATION, ROOFING PRODUCTS AND RADIANT BARRIERS
(a) Insulation certification by manufacturers. All insulation shall be certified by Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Household Goods and Services that the insulation conductive thermal performance is approved pursuant to the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 12, Chapters 12 – 13, Article 3, “Standards for Insulating Material.”
(b) Installation of urea formaldehyde foam insulation. Urea formaldehyde foam insulation may be applied or installed only if:
It is installed in exterior side walls; and
A 4-mil-thick plastic polyethylene vapor retarder or equivalent plastic sheathing vapor retarder is installed between the urea formaldehyde foam insulation and the interior space in all applications.
(c) Flamespread rating of insulation. All insulating material shall be installed in compliance with the flamespread rating and smoke density requirements of the CBC.
(d) Installation of insulation in existing buildings. Insulation installed in an existing attic, or on an existing duct or water heater, shall comply with the applicable requirements of Subsections 1, 2 and 3 below. If a contractor installs the insulation, the contractor shall certify to the customer, in writing, that the insulation meets the applicable requirements of Subsections 1, 2 and 3 below.
- Attics. If insulation is installed in the existing attic of a low-rise residential building, the R -value of the total amount of insulation (after addition of insulation to the amount, if any, already in the attic) shall meet the requirements of Section 150.0(a) for single-family buildings and Section 180.2(a)1 for multifamily buildings three habitable stories or fewer. Exception to Section 110.8(d)1: Where the accessible space in the attic is not large enough to accommodate the required R -value, the entire accessible space shall be filled with insulation, provided such installation does not violate Section 1202.2 of Title 24, Part 2 or Section 806 of Title 24, Part 2.5.
- Water heaters. If external insulation is installed on an existing unfired water storage tank or on an existing back-up tank for a solar water-heating system, it shall have an R -value of at least R-3.5, or the heat loss of the tank surface based on an 80°F water-air temperature difference shall be less than 6.5 Btu per hour per square foot.
- Ducts. If insulation is installed on an existing space-conditioning duct, it shall comply with Section 605.0 of the CMC.
(e) Reserved.
(f) Reserved.
(g) Insulation requirements for heated slab floors. Heated slab floors shall be insulated according to the requirements in Table 110.8-A.
- Insulation materials in ground contact must: A. Comply with the certification requirements of Section 110.8(a); and B. Have a water absorption rate for the insulation material alone without facings that is no greater than 0.3 percent when tested in accordance with Test Method A – 24 Hour-Immersion of ASTM C272.
C. Water vapor permeance no greater than 2.0 perm/ inch when tested in accordance with ASTM E96.
- Insulation installation must:
§ 110.7 High relevance — show source text
Windows with window film applied that is not rated by NFRC 200 shall use the default values from this table.|1. Translucent or transparent panels shall use glass block values when not rated by NFRC 200.
2. Visible Transmittance (VT) shall be calculated by using Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA6.
3. Windows with window film applied that is not rated by NFRC 200 shall use the default values from this table.|1. Translucent or transparent panels shall use glass block values when not rated by NFRC 200.
2. Visible Transmittance (VT) shall be calculated by using Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA6.
3. Windows with window film applied that is not rated by NFRC 200 shall use the default values from this table.|56 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE
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ALL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MANUFACTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING COMPONENTS
SECTION 110.7—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS TO LIMIT AIR LEAKAGE
All joints, penetrations and other openings in the building envelope that are potential sources of air leakage shall be caulked, gasketed, weather-stripped or otherwise sealed to limit infiltration and exfiltration.
Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 25007, 25008, 25218.5, 25310, 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4, 25402.8, and 25943, Public Resources Code.
SECTION 110.8—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR INSULATION, ROOFING PRODUCTS AND RADIANT BARRIERS
(a) Insulation certification by manufacturers. All insulation shall be certified by Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Household Goods and Services that the insulation conductive thermal performance is approved pursuant to the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 12, Chapters 12 – 13, Article 3, “Standards for Insulating Material.”
(b) Installation of urea formaldehyde foam insulation. Urea formaldehyde foam insulation may be applied or installed only if:
It is installed in exterior side walls; and
A 4-mil-thick plastic polyethylene vapor retarder or equivalent plastic sheathing vapor retarder is installed between the urea formaldehyde foam insulation and the interior space in all applications.
(c) Flamespread rating of insulation. All insulating material shall be installed in compliance with the flamespread rating and smoke density requirements of the CBC.
(d) Installation of insulation in existing buildings. Insulation installed in an existing attic, or on an existing duct or water heater, shall comply with the applicable requirements of Subsections 1, 2 and 3 below. If a contractor installs the insulation, the contractor shall certify to the customer, in writing, that the insulation meets the applicable requirements of Subsections 1, 2 and 3 below.
- Attics. If insulation is installed in the existing attic of a low-rise residential building, the R -value of the total amount of insulation (after addition of insulation to the amount, if any, already in the attic) shall meet the requirements of Section 150.0(a) for single-family buildings and Section 180.2(a)1 for multifamily buildings three habitable stories or fewer.
§ 205.1.2 High relevance — show source text
A6.205.1.2 Installation of field-fabricated fenestration and exterior doors. Field-fabricated fenestration and field-fabricated exterior doors may be installed only if the compliance documentation has demonstrated compliance for the installation using U factors from Table A6.205.1-A and SHGC values from Table A6.205.1-B. Field-fabricated fenestration and field-fabricated exterior doors shall be caulked between the fenestration products or exterior door and the building and shall be weatherstripped.
Exception: Unframed glass doors and fire doors need not be weatherstripped or caulked.
A6.205.2 Joints and other openings. Joints and other openings in the building envelope that are potential sources of air leakage shall be caulked, gasketed, weatherstripped or otherwise sealed to limit infiltration and exfiltration.
A6.205.3 Insulation and roofing products.
A6.205.3.1 Certification by manufacturers. Any insulation shall be certified by Department of Consumer Affairs, Bureau of Household Good and Services that the insulation conductive thermal performance is approved pursuant to the California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 12, Chapters 12-13, Article 3,“Standards for Insulating Material.”
A6.205.3.2 Installation of urea formaldehyde foam insulation. Urea formaldehyde foam insulation may be applied or installed only if:
It is installed in exterior side walls; and
A four-mil-thick plastic polyethylene vapor barrier or equivalent plastic sheathing vapor barrier is installed between the urea formaldehyde foam insulation and the interior space in all applications.
A6.205.3.3 Flame spread rating. All insulating material shall be installed in compliance with the flame spread rating and smoke density requirements of the Title 24, Part 2, California Building Code.
A6.205.3.4 Installation of insulation in existing buildings. Insulation installed in an existing attic or on an existing duct or water heater, shall comply with the applicable requirements of Subsections A6.205.3.4.1, A6.205.3.4.2 and A6.205.3.4.3 below. If a contractor installs the insulation, the contractor shall certify to the customer, in writing, that the insulation meets the applicable requirements of Subsections A6.205.3.4.1, A6.205.3.4.2 and A6.205.3.4.3 below.
A6.205.3.4.1 Attics. If insulation is installed in the existing attic of a low-rise residential building, the R-value of the total amount of insulation (after addition of insulation to the amount, if any, already in the attic) shall be at least R-38 in climate zones 1 and 16; and R-30 in all other climate zones.
Exception: Where the accessible space in the attic is not large enough to accommodate the required R-value, the entire accessible space shall be filled with insulation provided such installation does not violate Section 1203.2 of Title 24, Part 2, California Building Code.
§ 55143-55148. High relevance — show source text
STANDARDS FOR INSULATING MATERIAL
- Exemption. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, a manufacturer of the primary components of urea formaldehyde foam insulation may apply for certification as provided in Section 1555 of this article. Such certification statement shall indicate compliance with the following standards: A. Composition. The material shall consist of cellular plastic generated in a continuous stream by mixing the components which are a urea formaldehyde resin, air and a foaming agent. The material shall be suitable for filling closed cavities through small holes and suitable also for filling open cavities by trowelling during foaming prior to enclosure. B. Thermal performance. The effective thermal performance, incorporating a derating value, shall be determined according to the method described in 42 Fed. Reg. pages 55143-55148. C. Resistance to combustion. Surface-burning characteristics shall be determined according to the ANSI/ASTM E84-79 and shall not exceed the following values:
Flame spread . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Smoke developed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .450 Test specimens shall be aged for 45 days at 70°F ± 5°F and 35 to 40 percent relative humidity before testing. D. Free formaldehyde content of dry foam. The free formaldehyde content of the dry foam shall be less than 0.01 percent formaldehyde by weight when tested as specified in paragraph (f) (8), published in 45 Fed. Reg. page 63801, except that the specimens to be tested shall also be aged for 56 days at 24 ± 5°C (75 ± 10°F) and 50 ± 10 percent relative humidity in an uncovered beaker. E. Corrosiveness. The material shall be tested and shall meet the criteria for corrosiveness as specified in 45 Fed. Reg. pages 63786-63810. F. Density. The material shall be tested and shall meet the criteria for density as specified in 45 Fed. Reg. pages 6378663810.
G. Shrinkage. The material shall be tested and meet the criteria for shrinkage as specified in 45 Fed. Reg. pages 6378663810, except that the material shall not shrink more than 2.0 percent in any direction. H. Volume resistivity. The material shall be tested and meet the criteria for volume resistivity as specified in 45 Fed. Reg. pages 63786-63810. I. Identification. Resin and foaming agent containers shall be marked with conditions of proper storage and the derated R -value and shrinkage of the prepared foam as certified by the manufacturer. J. Safety information. Installers of urea formaldehyde foam insulation shall present the following safety notice to the purchasers of the foam prior to the signing of the contract for installation. The notice shall be printed in a minimum of 8-point type size. One copy of the notice signed by the purchaser shall be immediately given to the purchaser, one copy shall be retained by the installer and one copy shall be mailed by the installer to the Executive Director of the Energy Commission within 48 hours after installation of the insulation is completed.
§ 2602.1 High relevance — show source text
- Resistance to combustion.
A. The material shall be tested to meet the requirements of Sections 2602.1-2602.6 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code, with the additional provision that the surface-burning characteristics shall be determined according to ANSI/ASTM E84-79 and shall not exceed the following values:
Flame spread . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 Smoke developed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 450 B. This subsection shall not apply to any product recognized by the International Conference of Building Officials, as of the date of adoption of this article, as complying with Sections 2602.1-2602.6 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code based solely upon diversified testing. The manufacturer of any product which is recognized by the International Conference of Building Officials, subsequent to the date of approval of these regulations, as complying with Sections 2602.12602.6 of the 1994 Uniform Building Code based solely upon diversified testing, may petition the Commission for an exemption of that product from the provisions of this subsection. 5. Identification. Foam containers shall state the conditions of proper storage.
(m) Urea formaldehyde foam field applied.
- Limitation on sale. Urea formaldehyde foam is unsafe for use as insulation. Sale within the State of California of urea formaldehyde foam insulation is prohibited.
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- Exemption. Notwithstanding any other provision of this article, a manufacturer of the primary components of urea formaldehyde foam insulation may apply for certification as provided in Section 1555 of this article. Such certification statement shall indicate compliance with the following standards: A. Composition. The material shall consist of cellular plastic generated in a continuous stream by mixing the components which are a urea formaldehyde resin, air and a foaming agent. The material shall be suitable for filling closed cavities through small holes and suitable also for filling open cavities by trowelling during foaming prior to enclosure. B. Thermal performance. The effective thermal performance, incorporating a derating value, shall be determined according to the method described in 42 Fed. Reg. pages 55143-55148. C. Resistance to combustion. Surface-burning characteristics shall be determined according to the ANSI/ASTM E84-79 and shall not exceed the following values:
Flame spread . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Smoke developed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .450 Test specimens shall be aged for 45 days at 70°F ± 5°F and 35 to 40 percent relative humidity before testing. D. Free formaldehyde content of dry foam. The free formaldehyde content of the dry foam shall be less than 0.01 percent formaldehyde by weight when tested as specified in paragraph (f) (8), published in 45 Fed. Reg.
§ 504.2.1.3 High relevance — show source text
- Testing should be conducted with the HVAC system operated at the minimum design outdoor air ventilation rate.
- Air samplers and monitors should be located near likely sources of formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds, at a height of 3 to 6 feet from the floor and well away from walls and air diffusers.
- The test protocols should be justified with documentation to show that appropriate sampling methods and times were used.
A5.504.2.1.3 Noncomplying building areas. For each sampling area of the building exceeding the maximum concentrations specified in Section A5.504.2.1.1, flush out with outside air and retest samples taken from the same area. Repeat the procedures until testing demonstrates compliance.
Note: US EPA-recognized testing protocols may be found on the Air Resources Board web site.
A5.504.4.5.1 No added formaldehyde Tier 1. Use composite wood products approved by the California Air Resources Board (ARB) as no-added formaldehyde (NAF) based resins or ultra-low emitting formaldehyde (ULEF) resins.
Notes:
- See Title 17, Section 93120.3(c) and (d), respectively.
- Documentation must be provided verifying that materials are certified to meet the pollutant emission limits. A list of manufacturers and their NAF and ULEF certified materials is provided at: http://www.arb.ca.gov/toxics/ compwood/naf_ulef/listofnaf_ulef.htm.
A5.504.4.7 Resilient flooring systems, Tier 1. Where resilient flooring is installed, at least 90 percent of floor area receiving resilient flooring shall meet the requirements of the California Department of Public Health, “Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers,” Version 1.2, January 2017 (Emission testing method for California Specification 01350).
See California Department of Public Health’s website for certification programs and testing labs.
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/Pages/VOC.aspx#material
A5.504.4.7.1 Resilient flooring systems, Tier 2. Where resilient flooring is installed, 100 percent of floor area receiving resilient flooring shall meet the requirements of the California Department of Public Health, “Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers,” Version 1.2, January 2017 (Emission testing method for California Specification 01350).
See California Department of Public Health’s website for certification programs and testing labs.
https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/Pages/VOC.aspx#material
A5.504.4.7.2 Verification of compliance. Documentation shall be provided verifying that resilient flooring materials meet the pollutant emission limits.
A5.504.4.8 Thermal insulation, Tier 1. Thermal insulation, No-added Formaldehyde. Install thermal insulation which complies with Tier 1 plus does not contain any added formaldehyde.
§ 1551-1561 High relevance — show source text
HISTORY:
- Repealer of Article 3 (Sections 1551-1561) filed 8-11-78; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 78, No. 32). For prior history, see Registers 76, No. 16; 78, Nos. 2 and 26.
- New Article 3 (Sections 1551-1565) filed 1-16-79; effective thirtieth day thereafter (Register 79, No. 3).
- Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).
DEFINITIONS
Sec. 12-13-1552. For purposes of this article, the following definitions shall apply:
(a) “Approved laboratory” means any testing facility including a facility owned or operated by a manufacturer which has been approved pursuant to Section 1554 of this article.
(b) “ANSI” means the American National Standards Institute.
(c) “ASTM” means ASTM International.
(d) “Building materials” means materials used in walls, ceilings, roofs and floors of buildings.
(e) “Exposed application” means any interior application of the product in which it is not used in a construction assembly imposing a material which meets the requirements of Chapter 8 of the California Building Code in substantial contact with the facing or membrane surface.
(f) “Installed design density” means the proven density for loose fill insulation other than cellulose which has been determined by the manufacturer to constitute the density whereby settlement of no more than 2 percent shall occur over the first three years, or no more than 4 percent over the first 15 years of installation.
(g) “Insulating material” or “insulation” means any material listed in Section 1551 (b) of this article and placed within or contiguous to a wall, ceiling, roof or floor of a room or building, or contiguous to the surface of any appliance or its intake or outtake mechanism, for the purpose of reducing heat transfer or reducing adverse temperature fluctuations of the building room or appliance.
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(h) “Manufacturer” means any person who either:
- Produces insulating material in the final composition either for use in the form sold or to be further dimensionally modified; or
- In the case of polyurethane, polyisocyanurate and urea formaldehyde foam formed at the installation site, produces the primary components of the material.
“Manufacturer” shall not include any building contractor or any other person whose sole activity is to install insulation at the installation site.
(i) “Quality assurance program.” (Reserved)
(j) “Recommended wall density” means the density used for pressure fill retrofit wall applications to prevent settling.
(k) “Representative sample” means a sample of insulating material with the same characteristics (other than thickness) and using the same facing imposed on the insulating material manufactured for final use.
(l) “Representative thickness” means a thickness of insulating material at which the change in thermal performance per inch will vary no more than plus or minus 2 percent with increases in thickness.
(m) “TAPPI” means Technical Association of Pulp and Paper Industry.
§ 25921.1 High relevance — show source text
- A declaration that the insulating material complies with the requirements of this article.
- The wording of the certification seal, if such seal consists of a statement pursuant to Section 1557 (b) (2) of this article.
(c) Every certification statement shall be dated and signed by the manufacturer attesting to its truth and accuracy. Where the manufacturer is either a corporation or a business association, the certification statement shall be dated, signed and attested to by a responsible official thereof.
(d) Within 45 days after receipt of a certification statement, the Executive Director shall forward, to the manufacturer, an acknowledgment that the statement has been received and that it is complete and accurate on its face.
(e) Certification of the insulation material shall be deemed to occur upon forwarding of the acknowledgement by the Executive Director. If acknowledgment is not forwarded in a timely manner, certification shall be deemed to occur on the 45th day after receipt of the certification statement.
(f) The statement of test results required in the certification may be based upon tests conducted prior to the adoptive date of this article if: (1) the same test was conducted within two years of the date of adoption, (2) the laboratory at which the tests were
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conducted has been approved for those tests as of the date of the certification statement, and (3) the laboratory certifies that the test and product are the same as the test and product referred to in the statement of test results.
Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.
Reference: Sections 25921 and 25921.1, Public Resources Code.
HISTORY:
- Amendment of subsections (a), (b) (4), (b) (6) and (f) filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).
QUALITY ASSURANCE (RESERVED)
Sec. 12-13-1556.
Authority: Section 25218 (e), Public Resources Code.
Reference: Section 25921.1, Public Resources Code.
HISTORY:
- Repealer filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).
IDENTIFICATION
Sec. 12-13-1557.
(a) Except as specified in subsection (b), Item 3, of this section, no insulation shall be sold in California on or after September 22, 1981, unless the insulating material, container, bundle or similar packaging material bears a visible Commission approved statement certifying that a representative sample of the insulation material has been tested and approved by an approved laboratory and complies with the requirements of this article.
(b) The Commission-approved statement shall consist of either:
A design or statement approved by the Executive Director, or
An identification of the manufacturer and any statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California.
A statement that the material meets the quality standards of the State of California included in the bill of lading shall meet the requirements of this section only if the product is being shipped in bulk, or the container or product is not otherwise labeled by the manufacturer and the product is being sold to its ultimate user.
§ 8-10 High relevance — show source text
(b) Up to and including September 30, 1982, laboratories shall be approved either upon accreditation by the United States Department of Commerce National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program or as stated in the preceding paragraph, at the manufacturer’s option. After September 30, 1982, laboratories shall only be approved upon accreditation by the United States Department of Commerce National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program.
Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.
Reference: Sections 25915(a) and 25921, Public Resources Code.
HISTORY:
- Amendment filed 8-10-81, designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).
CERTIFICATION
Sec. 12-13-1555.
(a) No insulating material shall be sold or installed in California on or after September 22, 1981, unless the manufacturer has certified that the material complies with the provisions of this article.
(b) The manufacturer shall submit a certification statement to the Executive Director for each type of insulating material. Such statement shall contain the following information:
Name of the manufacturer.
A description of the type of insulating material being certified in sufficient detail to permit its identification. The description may include information sheets, brochures, a sample label for the product or similar information.
Test results from an approved laboratory.
A description of the basis for ensuring that all the insulating material of the type being certified complies with the requirements of this article. Such description shall include, but not be limited to a description of the frequency of testing of the material, the quality assurance program, and any third-party inspections or testing used by the manufacturer.
A declaration that the insulating material complies with the requirements of this article.
The wording of the certification seal, if such seal consists of a statement pursuant to Section 1557 (b) (2) of this article.
(c) Every certification statement shall be dated and signed by the manufacturer attesting to its truth and accuracy. Where the manufacturer is either a corporation or a business association, the certification statement shall be dated, signed and attested to by a responsible official thereof.
(d) Within 45 days after receipt of a certification statement, the Executive Director shall forward, to the manufacturer, an acknowledgment that the statement has been received and that it is complete and accurate on its face.
(e) Certification of the insulation material shall be deemed to occur upon forwarding of the acknowledgement by the Executive Director. If acknowledgment is not forwarded in a timely manner, certification shall be deemed to occur on the 45th day after receipt of the certification statement.
(f) The statement of test results required in the certification may be based upon tests conducted prior to the adoptive date of this article if: (1) the same test was conducted within two years of the date of adoption, (2) the laboratory at which the tests were
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conducted has been approved for those tests as of the date of the certification statement, and (3) the laboratory certifies that the test and product are the same as the test and product referred to in the statement of test results.
Authority: Section 25218(e), Public Resources Code.
Reference: Sections 25921 and 25921.1, Public Resources Code.
HISTORY:
§ 410-66. High relevance — show source text
UREA FORMALDEHYDE FOAM INSULATION SAFETY NOTICE
The Federal Panel on Formaldehyde has concluded that formaldehyde should be presumed to pose a carcinogenic (cancer) risk for humans. Formaldehyde gas may also cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, coughing, shortness of breath, skin irritation, nausea, headaches and dizziness. People with respiratory problems or allergies may suffer more serious reactions, especially people allergic to formaldehyde. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should not be exposed to this product.
The symptoms may appear immediately or not until months after installation.
This product may release formaldehyde gas into your home or building over a long period of time. In some instances the formaldehyde gas cannot be controlled by ventilation or other means.
Application of this product is restricted to exterior sidewalls in both residential and commercial/industrial buildings. A 4-mil thickness plastic polyethylene vapor barrier, or equivalent plastic sheeting vapor barrier, shall be installed between the urea formaldehyde foam insulation and the interior space of the home or building in all applications.
If you have health concerns, call your doctor. Also, call the installer or manufacturer of the material.
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- Severability of provisions. If any provision of Section 1553 (m) (1) or (2), or the application thereof to any person or circumstances, is held invalid, the remaining provisions, or the application of such provisions to other persons or circumstances, shall not be affected thereby.
(n) Vermiculite in loose fill form.
- Composition. Vermiculite loose fill insulation shall be produced by the expanding or exfoliating of natural vermiculate or by grading and heating.
- Thermal performance. Determination of the thermal performance shall be in accordance with ANSI/ASTM C177-76, ANSI/ASTM C236-66 or ANSI/ASTM C615-76 at the manufacturer’s option.
- Density. Density shall be determined according to installed design density. All tests except the ANSI/ ASTM E84-79 test shall be conducted at the installed design density.
- Resistance to combustion. Resistance to combustion shall be determined by the use of the Attic Floor Radiant Panel Test, as described in the United States General Services Administration insulation standard HH-I-515D as amended October 11, 1979.
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- Identification. Containers of vermiculite shall be marked with the type (pouring or pneumatic), the net weight and the manufacturer’s recommendations for installation including minimum thickness, maximum coverage and installed design density to provide the levels of thermal performance shown. Manufacturer’s installation recommendations shall include precautions according to the California Electric Code Section 410-66.
Products which may be used for pressure fill retrofit wall application shall be marked with the recommended wall density to prevent settling and separately marked with the tested thermal performance for such applications.
Authority: Sections 25402(a) and 25920, Public Resources Code.
Reference: Sections 25920-25922, Public Resources Code.
HISTORY:
§ 8-10 High relevance — show source text
(g) “Insulating material” or “insulation” means any material listed in Section 1551 (b) of this article and placed within or contiguous to a wall, ceiling, roof or floor of a room or building, or contiguous to the surface of any appliance or its intake or outtake mechanism, for the purpose of reducing heat transfer or reducing adverse temperature fluctuations of the building room or appliance.
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(h) “Manufacturer” means any person who either:
- Produces insulating material in the final composition either for use in the form sold or to be further dimensionally modified; or
- In the case of polyurethane, polyisocyanurate and urea formaldehyde foam formed at the installation site, produces the primary components of the material.
“Manufacturer” shall not include any building contractor or any other person whose sole activity is to install insulation at the installation site.
(i) “Quality assurance program.” (Reserved)
(j) “Recommended wall density” means the density used for pressure fill retrofit wall applications to prevent settling.
(k) “Representative sample” means a sample of insulating material with the same characteristics (other than thickness) and using the same facing imposed on the insulating material manufactured for final use.
(l) “Representative thickness” means a thickness of insulating material at which the change in thermal performance per inch will vary no more than plus or minus 2 percent with increases in thickness.
(m) “TAPPI” means Technical Association of Pulp and Paper Industry.
(n) “Thermal performance” means the tested thermal conductivity, thermal conductance or thermal resistance ( R -value), as appropriate, of an insulating material.
(o) “Urea formaldehyde foam” means a cellular plastic insulation material generated in a continuous stream by mixing the components which are a urea formaldehyde resin, air and a foaming agent.
Authority: Sections 25920 and 25922, Public Resources Code.
Reference: Sections 25915 (a), 25920, 25921 and 25922, Public Resources Code.
HISTORY:
- Amendment filed 8-10-81; designated effective 9-22-81 (Register 81, No. 33).
QUALITY STANDARDS
Sec. 12-13-1553. The manufacturer shall cause the testing of samples of insulating material for conformity with the quality standards described in this section.
(a) General testing provisions. In testing any material pursuant to this section, the following general procedures shall be used.
- All tests with the exception of the ANSI/ASTM E84-79 test shall be conducted using representative samples at the representative thickness of the insulation, except that when the final use of an insulating material entails a thickness less than the representative thickness, then the insulating material will be tested at the lesser thickness.
- Where uniformity of product ensures consistency of test results across a product grouping, test results for one may be used for certification of other products within that product group. The manufacturer shall provide sufficient documentation to establish a valid basis for applying a particular test result to other products within the group. The Executive Director shall determine whether a valid basis exists for grouping products for testing pursuant to this subsection. If it is determined that a valid basis does not exist, individual tests shall be required.
§ 9.2.3.3 Medium relevance — show source text
Delete language to section 9.2.3.3 and reserve section number. 9.2.3.3 Reserved.
Revise Section 9.3.19.1 as follows:*
9.3.19.1* Unless the requirements of 9.2.3.1 or 9.2.3.2 are met, sprinklers shall be installed under exterior roofs, canopies, porte-cochere, balconies, decks or similar projections exceeding 4 ft (1.2 m) in width.
Revise Annex Section A9.3.19.2 as follows:
A9.3.19.2 The presence of planters, newspaper machines and similar items, should not be considered storage.
Add Section 9.3.19.3 as follows:
9.3.19.3 Sprinklers may be omitted for following structures:
(1) Solar photovoltaic panel structures with no use underneath. Signs may be provided, as determined by the enforcing agency prohibiting any use underneath including storage. (2) Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels supported by framing that have sufficient uniformly distributed and unobstructed openings throughout the top of the array (horizontal plane) to allow heat and gases to escape, as determined by the enforcing agency.
Add new Sections 16.9.3.1.3.4 and 16.9.3.1.3.5 as follows:
16.9.3.1.3.4 Where a system includes floor control valves, a hydraulic design information sign containing information for the floor shall be provided at each floor control valve. A hydraulic design information sign shall be provided for each area calculated. The installing contractor shall identify a hydraulically designed sprinkler system with a permanently marked weatherproof metal or rigid plastic sign secured with corrosion resistant wire, chain or other approved means. Such signs shall be placed at the alarm valve, dry pipe valve, preaction valve or deluge valve supplying the corresponding hydraulically designed area.
16.9.3.1.3.5 Control valves, check valves, drain valves, antifreeze valves shall be readily accessible for inspection, testing and maintenance. Valves located more than 7 feet above the finished floor shall be provided with a means of opening and closing the valve from the floor level.
Add new Sections 16.9.10.5, 16.9.10.5.1, 16.9.10.5.1.1, 16.9.10.5.1.2, 16.9.10.5.1.3, 16.9.10.5.1.4, 16.9.10.5.2 as follows:
16.9.10.5 Sectional Valves.
16.9.10.5.1 Private fire service main systems shall have sectional control valves at appropriate points in order to permit sectionalizing the system in the event of a break or for the making of repairs or extensions.
16.9.10.5.1.1 Sectional control valves are not required when the fire service main system serves less than six fire appurtenances.
16.9.10.5.1.2 Sectional control valves shall be indicating valves in accordance with Section 16.9.3.2.
Frequently asked questions
Can I buy insulation in California without a manufacturer certification label?
No. Insulation sold in California must carry a Commission‑approved certification statement or be covered by the manufacturer’s certification procedures described in the Standards. See § 110.8(a) and Sec. 12‑13‑1557 for labeling rules.
Where may urea‑formaldehyde foam be installed?
Only in exterior side walls, and only if a 4‑mil polyethylene (or equivalent) vapor retarder is installed between the foam and the interior. § 110.8(b).
If I hire a contractor to add attic insulation, do they need to give me anything in writing?
Yes. If a contractor installs the insulation in an existing attic, duct or water heater, the contractor must certify in writing to the customer that the insulation meets the applicable retrofit requirements of § 110.8(d).
What R‑value should a homeowner target for an attic retrofit?
The retrofit must meet the R‑value required by the Energy Code references. Appendix guidance for low‑rise residential attics is R‑38 in Climate Zones 1 and 16 and R‑30 in other climate zones (see Appendix A6.205.3.4.1 and § 110.8(d)).
Is sale of urea formaldehyde foam completely prohibited?
Field‑applied urea formaldehyde foam is strictly limited and the Standards include strong safety notices and testing limits (including a free formaldehyde limit in certain certification exemptions). Consult the Standards language (Secs. 1553/1555) for the exact conditions and the mandatory safety notice installers must provide.
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