Wind-Borne Debris Protection Available with Code-Compliant SkylightsVELUX provides safe glass models that meet the latest building code requirements for hurricane-force winds for Atlantic-seaboard states

Safety-conscious homeowners in hurricane-prone areas should be aware that their skylights, as well as their windows and glass doors, may not meet the latest building code requirements for high winds.

Following the devastation of Hurricane Andrew in 1992, officials in South Florida adopted the first mandatory glazing impact standards in the United States. Since that time, standards have been strengthened there and in other Atlantic-seaboard states subject to hurricane-force winds.

Safe, code-compliant skylights are available for hurricane-prone and other high-wind areas.

Early in 2002, Florida put into effect new building codes that identify specific areas prone to intense winds related to hurricanes that require "Wind-Borne Debris Protection." According to John Lawton, manager of skylight product management for VELUX America, in order for skylights, windows, or glass doors to be installed in these areas, they must meet stringent impact test requirement provisions.

Lawton says that Georgia and South Carolina have adopted another set of standards, the International Residential Codes requirements and that eventually all Southeastern coastal states are expected to follow suit. He points out that the new Florida Building Code recognizes the ASTM standards for wind-borne debris protection and that other east coast states have adopted state codes with the ICC codes as the base code. These states, Lawton says, will also recognize the ASTM standards.

Homeowners in affected areas should consider code-compliant skylights for more than just safety. They can be a cost-effective choice for bringing balanced natural lighting and additional ventilation into homes, particularly where building codes may limit the use of traditional windows.

Also, homeowners with older, inefficient plastic bubble skylights that can crack easily should consider a simple replacement installation with energy-efficient and safe glass replacement models.

Modern skylights provide outstanding energy efficiency. The best models are Energy Star approved and NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) certified and they greatly reduce heat gain, fading, and condensation compared to clear glass and plastic.

Skylights designed to meet the latest building code requirements in all areas are readily available. Homeowners can contact local Home Builder Associations for information on local codes and requirements.

And now is a particularly good time to consider upgrading existing skylights or adding new units to qualify for a tax credit of up to $200 under the Energy Tax Incentives Act of 2005. Details are available at www.energy.gov/taxbreaks.htm.

For information on skylight safety and selection, call 1-800-283-2831 or visit www.veluxusa.com. For government information on window and skylight energy efficiency visit www.energystar.gov, and for independent agency information visit www.nfrc.org or www.efficientwindows.org. For hurricane readiness information, visit www.fema.gov.

For quick access to natural light feature material and background information, news releases, press kits and high-resolution images visit www.veluxusa.com and go to the News Media Home section under "Professionals."

For more information about VELUX press materials please contact:

Keith Hobbs
Business Services Associates, Inc.
9413 Greenfield Drive
Raleigh, NC 27615-2306
Phone - 919.844.0064
E-mail - khobbs@nc.rr.com