GREENWOOD, S.C. - JANUARY 2006 - VELUX now offers a Miami-Dade approved FCM (fixed curb mounted) skylight, an insulated glass skylight designed to meet the stringent building code requirements for the high velocity hurricane zone in Dade and Broward Counties, Florida.
The new FCM for Miami-Dade County, Florida (NOA No. 04-0805.01, Expiration Date: November 10, 2010) and the existing Impact FCM take the popular VELUX curb mounted, insulated glass skylight and incorporate a new design, which meets the requirements of the International Building Code - Commercial (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), the Florida Building Code 2004, and the stringent high-velocity hurricane protocols.
In March 2002, Florida put into effect new building codes that identify specific areas prone to intense winds related to hurricanes (120 mph or higher), which require Wind-Borne Debris Protection. In order for skylights, windows, or doors to be installed in these areas, they must meet certain impact test requirements to satisfy stringent hurricane provisions.
In developing the Impact FCM, we realized that hurricane-prone regions of the country needed a solution that provided the benefits skylights offer, but with an added sense of security, says Joe Patrick, product manager for VELUX America. As the first insulated glass skylight on the market that meets the requirements for wind-borne debris protection, the Impact FCM, and now the Miami-Dade FCM, provide protection and peace-of-mind no matter how stringent the applicable codes may be.
The FCM skylights feature an easy-to-install design that works with all sizes of site-built curbs and with the varying thickness of different flashing and roofing materials. They also feature pre-applied gasket seals for a secure installation.
They provide outstanding energy efficiency, meeting ENERGY STAR requirements, utilizing laminated, low-E2, argon gas-filled glass to reduce heat gain, fading, and condensation by 50 percent when compared with clear glass and plastic. They also feature inner gaskets to seal out moisture and drafts.
Homeowners in southeastern states should consider the Impact FCM for Wind Zones 1, 2 and 3, or the Miami-Dade FCM in high-velocity hurricane prone areas for more than just safety. Skylights are an excellent, cost-effective choice for bringing natural light into homes, particularly where building codes limit the use of traditional windows. The ability of the skylights to meet code requirements, while providing the benefits of natural light, makes them a logical choice.
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VELUX is the world's largest manufacturer of skylights. Company products are available nationwide through home centers, building material suppliers, lumberyards, and independent door, window, or roofing retailers. Consumers can access complete product information and pricing, and can locate local suppliers and installation information, at www.VELUXusa.com.
VELUX will mail consumers literature on the benefits of bringing more natural light into the home and workplace and on skylight selection. Call 1-800-283-2831 or request via e-mail at www.VELUXusa.com.