CODE DEVELOPMENT& RESEARCH
Behind every building code and permitted building project is a body of research that proves these materials perform. VSE has been deeply involved in that work, advising on university research programs, contributing to structural testing initiatives, and publishing findings that help the broader building community understand what these materials can do.
In VSE’s early days, few building codes existed for these materials. We have contributed to nearly all of the codes now available or under development, serving as lead engineer on some and as a member of development and maintenance teams on others, and we are proud to have been part of that change.
There is still a lot of work to be done. If you want to get involved, reach out, and we can connect you with the right people.
International Residential Code:
Crushed stone IRC R403.4.1: VSE was the lead proponent for the expansion of the use of crushed stone (rubble trench) footings in the IRC. This effort was funded by the California Straw Bale Association (CASBA).
Appendix BL Hemp-Lime (Hempcrete) Construction: VSE served as the lead structural engineer in driving its development and integration into the 2024 IRC. This effort was funded in collaboration with the US Hemp Building Association.
Appendix AR Light Straw-Clay Construction: VSE has contributed to the maintenance of this code and has experience designing and permitting projects with it. This effort was funded by the California Straw Bale Association (CASBA).
Appendix AS Strawbale Construction: VSE has played an active role in the development and maintenance since its inception, with extensive experience designing straw bale projects across the country. This effort was funded by the California Straw Bale Association (CASBA).
Appendix AU Cob Construction (Monolithic Adobe): VSE served as the lead structural engineer for this appendix. This effort was funded by the Cob Research Institute.Appendix
BB Tiny Houses: VSE attempted to assist the expansion of this code to allow these structures to be movable on trailers. Though this proposal was denied at the most recent hearing, we look forward to continuing this effort. Earthbag/super adobe: VSE is involved in a current effort that is underway, exploring the possibility of an IRC appendix for earthbag/super adobe.
International Building Code:
Section2109 Adobe - VSE was part of the team that saved this section of code from being removed. This resulted in the formation of the earthen modular masonry committee (EMMC), which is intended to replace the code in the TMS.
Straw Bale Construction Appendix proposal: VSE founder Kevin Donahue was a member of the three-member task force that defended this code proposal. The proposal was unsuccessful for technical reasons related to the reinforced plaster system’s application to the new FEMA P695 rules. This effort was funded by the California Straw Bale Association (CASBA).
Reference and Testing Standards:
Reference standards are cited as the governing code from the model codes (IBC, IRC).VSE principal Anthony Denteis the chair of the structural subcommittee for the earthen modular masonry committee (EMMC) in TMS (The Masonry Society), developing the much-needed contemporary building code for adobeDevelopment of Earthen Floor ASTM Standard VSE took part in some meetings at the beginning of this effort. The effort has stalled, but we look forward to it regaining momentum.
Local Codes:
VSE played a small role as a member of the fask force for the first Low Carbon Concrete Code in the world. The Ecological Building Network and Carbon Leadership Forum drove the effort.
Testing & Research
VSE has assessed many testing pursuits to support permit acquisition work, code development, product development, or general knowledge advancement, bridging the gap between testing and code.
For a broader look at the research we have contributed to, explore these archives: