Michigan Uniform Energy Code (MUEC)

What is the Michigan Uniform Energy Code?

The Michigan Uniform Energy Code (MUEC) was adopted by the State of Michigan in 2003 and covers all residential and commercial constructions. The code requires that all new constructions meet minimum energy efficiencies.

Revised in 2008, the MUEC now requires more stringent minimum requirements for new residential constructions. Compliance with the MUEC varies depending on the climate zone of the construction and is broken down as follows:

Climate Zones

Zone 1: Southern Lower Peninsula
Zone 2: Northern Lower Peninsula
Zone 3: Upper Peninsula

Minimum Required Thermal Performance (U-Factor and R-Value)

  
						          Exterior Enclosure Type
						        Climate Zone

						        1

						        2

						        3

						        Wall Assemblies
						        R-21

						        R-21

						        R-21

						        Fenestration/Openings 

					            (area weighted average of the total area of fenestration units)
						        U-Factor = 0.35

						          R-Value = 2.85

						        Roof/Ceiling Assemblies
						        R-49

						        R-49

						        R-49

						        Floors over unconditioned spaces
						        R-21

						        R-21

						        R-21

						        Slab on grade construction
						        R-11

						        R-13

						        R-18

						        Crawl space walls
						        R-20

						        R-20

						        R-20

						          Basement Walls
						        Continuous Insulation
						        R-10

						        R-10

						        R-15

						        Cavity Insulation
						        R-11

						        R-11

						        R-19

How do I comply with the MUEC?

Complying with the revisions to the Michigan Uniform Energy Code (MUEC) is easier than you may think. For new residential construction projects, compliance with the MUEC can be demonstrated by any of the following:

Meeting the Minimum Required Thermal Performance Criteria for both U-Factor and R-Value
Meeting the Requirements of the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
Meeting the Design, Construction, and Certification Requirements Under the Energy Star Home Program
Meeting the Design & Construction Requirements in Conformance with the National Home Energy Rating System (HERS) Guidelines with an index of 85 or Higher

Consult a Professional

When determining the energy efficiency of a home, it is important not to focus on one particular aspect, but rather the overall energy performance. To determine whether your residential construction is up to code, it is best to consult a professional.

At Spink Insulation, our Energy Code Experts will assess your construction and determine the course of action to take to comply with both the MUEC and IECC guidelines.

Please contact us today at (800) 464-3307 and let our professionals assist you in compliance.