Rebuilding After Hurricane Helene
We hope everyone affected by Hurricane Helene is safe and receiving the necessary support during this challenging time. As communities and businesses begin the road to recovery and rebuilding, those involved in building design and construction will now, more than ever, need to focus on rebuilding efforts that prioritize the building envelope's ability to withstand hurricane-force winds and water intrusion.
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The Building Envelope's Role in Rebuilding Efforts
The weakest points in a building envelope are typically windows, doors, and roofs. If a building's envelope is breached, as happened to many during Hurricane Helene, wind can enter the structure, creating dangerous pressure fluctuations that can cause severe interior and structural damage. Water intrusion through damaged openings can further worsen the situation.
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Hurricane Codes & Testing for Building Products
As architects, engineers, and building owners begin planning their rebuilding efforts, it is important to understand the necessary codes for hurricane-prone areas and use construction and building products that comply with them. These codes, which are often defined by geographic location, follow the American Society of Civil Engineers Wind Speed Map. Areas like Florida have some of the strictest hurricane codes in the world due to the state's high exposure to hurricanes. Building products used in these regions must meet the requirements of either Miami-Dade County 's Notice of Approval (NOA) or Florida Product Approval (FPA). The Florida Building Codes, administered by the Florida Building Commission, are based on the International Building Code used across the United States.
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To meet these codes, building products undergo a series of rigorous testing, including:
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Flood Testing For Hurricane Protection
In addition to wind-related testing, a building must withstand flooding during and after a hurricane. After Hurricane Helene, the storm surge and heavy rainfall caused substantial flood-related destruction, leaving communities and businesses significantly damaged.
When examining buildings, flood protection system testing helps detect hidden leaks and weaknesses in flood barriers, enabling proactive repairs that can prevent extensive damage. By testing these systems, commercial properties can be protected against both wind and water intrusion, reducing the risk of further harm.
?For manufacturers and the construction industry, adhering to the National Flood Insurance Program FEMA (NFIP) standards is critical to ensure their products meet rigorous flood protection criteria and qualify for flood insurance coverage. This validation enhances the credibility of manufacturers' flood protection solutions and expedites market approvals, ensuring faster adoption and acceptance in flood-prone areas.
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Intertek's Hurricane & Flooding Solutions
Intertek has been working since the 1990s with manufacturers, commercial property owners, and contractors to help products meet the latest building codes and standards, especially in hurricane-prone markets. We work closely with manufacturers to conduct tests and prepare the appropriate test reports you need. Our test lab offers all the required hurricane tests based on your project or product requirements.
In addition to hurricane testing, Intertek offers flood protection system testing, which uncovers hidden leaks and weaknesses within the flood protection system. Identifying these issues early allows for proactive repairs, preventing costly damage. Our third-party testing services provide certified reports that validate compliance with NFIP standards, significantly reducing liability risks associated with product performance during flood events. Following a natural disaster, Intertek supports independent adjusters with rapid damage assessment and recommendations that streamline the claims process.
?Focusing on safety and resilience is key as communities rebuild following Hurricane Helene. Using certified products and rigorous testing helps prepare commercial properties for future storms. With Intertek's support, your project will meet the necessary hurricane and flood protection standards, protecting your property and its occupants.
?To learn more about how Intertek can assist with hurricane product testing and certification, visit our Hurricane Solutions page. We also offer a complimentary on-demand webinar on flood barrier testing conducted in both controlled environments and field settings.