Hurricane season can pose potential risksPella advocates statewide building codes for Gulf states for greater safety

Release Date: 07-31-2006

Almost one year after the unprecedented devastation of Hurricane Katrina, many in the southeast region of the United States continue the daunting task of rebuilding. Statewide building codes play a critical role in rebuilding for the future.

Before Katrina, neither Mississippi nor Louisiana had statewide building codes, but Louisiana has since adopted one. Pella Corporation, manufacturer of windows and doors and a leader in window safety, is an advocate for modern hurricane-resistant building codes, based on requirements found in the International Building Code, which offers rigorous hurricane protection regulations.

"Every hurricane that hits land is another reminder of the importance of strong building codes," said John Woestman, Pella's code compliance manager. "Building above code has become very common for many residents, but state governments in hurricane-prone areas should bear the responsibility to ensure all buildings and homes in their region are built to the latest hurricane-resistant building codes using the International Building Code as a model."

It's estimated that Hurricane Katrina was responsible for $75 billion in damages, making it the costliest hurricane in United States history.

Pella® Architect Series® windows with impact-resistant HurricaneShield® glass can contribute to the sustainability of openings in a home. Pella's impact-resistant windows and doors utilize laminated glass with an advanced polymer technology designed to provide a layer of protection to help keep a building intact, even in the fiercest of winds.

Pella's impact-resistant windows and doors offer an effective and timeless solution for homes and businesses located in hurricane regions. When products with impact-resistant glass are installed in a home or building, there is typically no need for a person to be on location to add shutters, plywood or other materials to cover windows when hurricane warnings are issued -- the window and door openings in a structure are continuously protected. Consumers should consult their local building codes for requirements in their area.

Pella's HurricaneShield solution
In addition to reliability and durability, Pella's impact-resistant windows and doors offer natural beauty, ease of use and the following features:

About Pella
Celebrating 81 years in business, Pella Corporation is recognized in the window and door industry for its technology and innovation, having earned more than 100 product and design patents. In addition to windows and patio doors, the company also manufactures entry door systems with the same level of quality and technology for which Pella is known worldwide. The company is represented by a Direct Sales Network operating Pella Window & Door Stores nationwide, and select building materials retailers, including Lowe's, which features the Pella Design Center, "a store-within-a-store," designed to take the complexity out of window and door purchases. For more information, call 888-84-PELLA or visit http://www.pella.com/.