July 12, 2006—The National Institute of Standards and Technology has examined the wreckage strewn by hurricanes Rita and Katrina and concluded that big hurricanes coming ashore don’t have to do that kind of damage.
NIST’s June 9 report made 23 recommendations for reducing hurricane destruction. They boil down to applying and enforcing codes, building more carefully and adjusting infrastructure design to show greater respect for the power of storm surge.
NIST advocates that all localities in hurricane prone areas adopt and enforce model commercial and residential building codes and standards. It says better practices for bracing masonry walls and installing roofing could reduce much damage. It cites evidence that many windows were breached by debris from roofs. It also calls for higher standards and inspections for asphalt shingle installations and metal roofs.
NIST also is calling upon states and municipalities to license roofing contractors and require continuing education. It also suggests that manufacturers mark shingles at fastening points and print instructions in multiple languages.
For more information, see the NIST Web site.
