855773644-LEED-v5-BD-C-Reference-Guide-Launch-Edition - Page 146
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Flood-resistant materials Additionally, projects using this strategy must ensure that all structural materials, finish materials, and connectors used below DFE are flood resistant. Using flood-resistant structural materials that can withstand water pressure, corrosion, and potential debris impacts during floods, such as reinforced concrete or high-density polyethylene, helps to further enhance a building’s resilience to flooding.
Hail
Hail strikes can cause significant damage to site infrastructure, outdoor storage, and building components such as roofs, siding, equipment, and windows, which can lead to costly repairs. Hail can also impact landscaping, particularly trees, by shredding leaves, breaking branches, and damaging bark, which leaves trees vulnerable to disease, pests, and slower growth. Teams must design and construct the site and site structures according to FORTIFIED Commercial High Wind and Hail Specific Design Requirements [68] for hail, or local equivalent. For instance, teams may choose hail guards for air conditioning units and impact-resistant materials for the roofs. Since hail typically occurs during thunderstorms, compromised roofing can allow water infiltration. Ensuring watertightness and hail resistance reduces the risks of hail damage and protects both the structure and occupants.
Hurricanes and High Winds
Hurricanes and high winds can cause severe damage to site infrastructure, buildings, landscaping, and safety. High winds can tear off roofs, break windows, and damage siding. Landscaping can also be affected when storms uproot trees or severely damage plants. Additionally, flying debris heightens the risk of injury or even death. Implementing wind-resistant design measures, such as reinforced structures and impact-resistant materials, can reduce these risks and enhance the site’s resilience against such extreme events.
To enhance the resilience of a site against hurricanes and high winds, the project site and site structures must be constructed according to the FORTIFIED Commercial Wind standards or a local equivalent. [69] Apply FORTIFIED Commercial standards along with federal, state, and local codes, ordinances, and regulations. If there are conflicts between provisions, use the more stringent regulation. Additionally, projects in high-wind areas must comply with the design and
68 “FORTIFIED Commercial High Wind and Hail Specific Design Requirements”, FORTIFIED, a program of the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, (2023), https://fortifiedhome.org/commercial-levels/. 69 “FORTIFIED Commercial™ – Wind Standards”, FORTIFIED, a program of the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, (2020), https://fortifiedcommercial.org/wp-content/uploads/Fortified_Commercial_Wind_Standards_2020.pdf.
U.S. Green Building Council LEED v5 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, April 2025 Launch Edition 136