This year approximately 1,000 tornadoes have ripped through the United States, killing more than 480 people and causing millions of dollars in property damage. Homes, businesses and schools have been reduced to debris.

Quality construction, supported by the adoption of appropriate local and state building codes, is key to preventing such large-scale destruction. The ability of any structure to withstand tornado or hurricane force winds and the resulting projectiles hinges on the use of appropriate building materials and a proper design.

Buildings with a high degree of durability can decrease the use of community resources when disasters occur. Increased resistance to natural disasters reduces the number of destroyed buildings, allows communities to recover quickly and saves human life.

PCA's experts in construction and codes and standards are uniquely qualified to help your audience understand what goes into constructing buildings that will resist the high winds of tornadoes, the importance of strong building codes that address potential disasters, and how to use concrete and concrete products to meet these building codes.

PCA staff experts in engineering and architecture regularly work with the building community, providing technical assistance and recommending the solutions to a variety of building challenges such as wind-load resistance and sustainable development.

About PCA
Based in Skokie, Ill., the Portland Cement Association represents cement companies in the United States and Canada. It conducts market development, engineering, research, education, and public affairs programs. More information on PCA programs is available at www.cement.org.

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