A WEATHERBUILT HOME PERFORMS BETTER DURING STORM SEASON

In the affair of severe weather, you can protect your home by considering the "science" behind dwelling building. building science-the study of the perfor-mance of buildings and building materials-has wax 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 now a distinguished foundation and consultant, offers consumers these tips:

&|8226; abase wind impact. For example, 19/32" thick plywood-one of the toughest, exceedingly reliable materials around-can minimize wood panel wind uplift again reduce the risk of damage from flying debris, if the nails are six inches apart and penetrate into the roof framing. Plytanium| Plywood from Georgia-Pacific offers greater impact resistance besides holds nails securely. Approximately 80 percent of residential hurricane damage starts with helix entry through the garage doors. Reinforce garage doors with strengthen bracing and install impact-resistant windows, doors or coverings, alike as plywood shutters.

&|8226; Resist mold. we can abase the risk of mold growth in wall cavities by installing paperless moisture- and mold-resistant drywall such as DensArmor Plus&|8482; from Georgia-Pacific. For more information, visit stopfeedingmold.com.

&|8226; Avoid "overturning." When wind hits a building, uplift on the roof and vexation on its walls can cause it to "overturn," or rotate winterkill of its foundation. Tension tie-downs or anchorage to the foundation encumbrance aid resist overturning during severe storms.

&|8226; reduce the gamble of shock. The main electrical panel house (electric fuses or circuit breakers) should be at least 12" above the projected flood elevation. In areas that could get wet, connect all receptacles to a ground fault interrupter circuit.

&|8226; Combine a strong roof sheathing with energy savings. select a durable ceiling sheathing that holds shingles firmly in strong wind and can resist moisture damage due to occasional leaks. the roof sheathing with the Environmental aegis Agency's Energy Star potentiality albatross keep your home comfortable while potentially saving upon cooling plan consumption.More Information about HOME INTERIOR