Severe Weather and Walls/Roofs

Severe Weather and Walls/Roofs: The case for using spray polyurethane foam (SPF) in hurricane zones

Severe weather is the toughest test for any roof system. Each year, insurance claims for hail damage average close to $2 billion and for wind-related damage more than $160 million. Ten years ago, Hurricane Andrew wrought unprecedented economic devastation, resulting in more than $26 billion in damage in the United States—the most expensive natural disaster in all of U.S. history.

in all of U.S. history.Building owners and managers, as well as design and construction professionals, need to be more vigilant than ever in their specification and detailing of building assemblies that resist the effects of wind and weather events. For their part, manufacturers, consultants, trade associations and other experts are conducting more in-fi eld performance testing as well as materials studies to make roofing and envelope systems that better protect buildings and their occupants during storms and high wind. 

In the following pages, we examine the safety considerations and bottom-line issues that drive the selection and specification of SPF and other building products today. We conclude with six constructive recommendations – an “Action Plan” – for consideration by building designers, constructors, developers and owners concerned about severe weather.