A WeatherBuilt Home Performs Better During Storm Season (NAPSA)—In the event of severe weather, you can protect your homeby considering the “sci- i rue z ae, 3 ee . ; = ae ence” behind home building. Building science—the study of the perfor-mance of buildings and building materials—has become increasingly important. Building materials are also more advanced, helping builders and homeowners construct more structurally sound homes. Mark LaLiberte, a building science expert recognized internationally as a distinguished author and consultant, offers consumers these tips: e Reduce wind impact. For example, 19/32” thick plywood— one of the toughest, most reliable materials around—can minimize wood panel wind uplift and reduce Plywood holds nails securely, keeping roof and wall sheathing fastened tightly to a home’s framing materials. cause it to “overturn,” or rotate off of its foundation. Tension tie-downs or anchorage to the foundation can the risk of damage from flying help resist overturning during framing. Plytanium Plywood from Georgia-Pacific offers greater impact resistance and holds nails The main electrical panel board cent of residential hurricane damage starts with wind entry that could get wet, connect all receptacles to a ground fault interruptercircuit. debris, if the nails are six inches apart and penetrate into the roof securely. Approximately 80 per- through the garage doors. Rein- force garage doors with steel brac- ing and install impact-resistant windows, doors or coverings, such as plywood shutters. e Resist mold. You can reduce the risk of mold growth in wall cavities by installing paperless moisture- and mold-resistant drywall such as DensArmor Plus™ from Georgia-Pacific. For more information, visit www.stopfeed ingmold.com. e Avoid “overturning.” When wind hits a building, uplift on the roof and pressure on the walls can severe storms. Reduce the risk of shock. (electric fuses or circuit breakers) should be at least 12” above the projected flood elevation. In areas e Combine a strong roof sheathing with energy savings. Select a durable roof sheath- ing that holds shingles firmly in strong wind and can resist moisture damage due to occasional leaks. A roof sheathing with the Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star qualification can keep your home comfortable while potentially saving on cooling energy consumption. For additional information, visit www.gpweatherbuilt.com and www-.flash.org.
