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Library

This library contains research reports produced by the Building America program and other building science resources used to support this Solution Center. The materials cover both new construction and existing homes. Use the search box and/or the filters to explore hundreds of residential building resources. Access to some references not produced by Building America may require purchase from the publisher. Documents are listed alphabetically. While we continually update our database, links may have changed since posting. Please contact our webmaster if you find broken links.

Showing results 1 - 11 of 11

Buyer Beware Video Series

Author(s)
Wieber
Organization(s)
NW Seismic
Publication Date
A website containing a video series by NW Seismic illustrating how a seismic retrofit should be done and ways they are done incorrectly.

FEMA P-259, Engineering Principles and Practices for Retrofitting Flood-Prone Residential Structures

Author(s)
Conrad David,
Kapur Omar,
Mahadevia Amit,
Maldonado Desi,
Moline Julia,
Overcash Glenn,
Passman Samantha,
Perotin Manuel,
Reeder Adam,
Seitz Laura,
Sheldon Adrienne,
Squerciati John
Organization(s)
FEMA,
Federal Emergency Management Agency,
Atkins Global,
URS Group,
Dewberry
Publication Date
Comprehensive design guide describing the benefits and details of retrofit methods for buildings and equipment in flood-prone areas. Estimated costs are outdated due to publication date.

Product Approval Menu

Author(s)
Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation
Organization(s)
Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation
Publication Date
Database of approved products that meet the requirements of the High Velocity Hurricane Zone.

Retrofit Improvements: Bracing of Roof Projections

Author(s)
Home Innovation Research Labs
Organization(s)
HIRL
Publication Date
Fact sheet describing how to install bracing to retrofit roof dormers for increased wind resistance.

Retrofit Improvements: Self-Locking Cabinets, Drawers, & Doors

Author(s)
Home Innovation Research Labs
Organization(s)
HIRL
Publication Date
A brochure educating homeowners on how to install self-locking devices on cabinets, drawers and doors, including child-proof latches and drawer locks.

Seismic Retrofit Guide 2012

Author(s)
Simpson Strong Tie
Organization(s)
Simpson Strong Tie
Publication Date
Report promoting public safety and welfare by reducing the risk of earthquake-induced damage to existing homes.

The Effects of Windborne Debris on Saferoom Wall Panels and Fenestration Systems

Author(s)
Stephen T. Peters,
Ian N. Robertson
Organization(s)
University of Hawaii College of Engineering
Publication Date
Projectile missile testing of various wall panel configuration to understand how the different wall constructions would perform when struck with wind driven debris from a hurricane.