To ensure our products are built to endure even the most severe hailstorms, like those recently experienced in Melbourne, Canberra, and Brisbane, VELUX Australia has taken the recognised American Solar Collector Hail Impact Test (ASTM E822-2009) and pushed it to the extreme.
In these rigorous tests, VELUX skylights were struck by ‘hailstones’ the size and weight of cricket balls, launched at speeds up to 172 kph – faster than any cricket ball ever bowled! This demonstrates our commitment to delivering skylights that stand strong against the harshest conditions Australia can throw at them.
Australia is no stranger to extreme weather events, with hailstorms ranking among the costliest natural disasters in the country. In fact, half of the most expensive hailstorms in Australia’s history have occurred since 2007. From Melbourne to Perth, these storms have caused extensive damage to homes and buildings, leaving many homeowners searching for resilient solutions. Enter VELUX skylights, a name synonymous with durability and reliability, even in the face of severe weather conditions.
Designed for Durability: How VELUX Skylights Stand Strong
When hailstones the size and weight of cricket balls descend from the sky, the damage can be catastrophic. Yet, VELUX skylights are engineered to endure even the most severe hailstorms without shattering. But how exactly do these skylights manage to resist such immense forces?
The secret lies in VELUX’s advanced glazing technology and rigorous testing processes. While there is no Australian Standards hail test specifically for glass skylights, VELUX skylights have undergone extensive testing that simulates the conditions of a serious hailstorm. The results are impressive, demonstrating that these skylights can withstand the impact of large hailstones without compromising their structural integrity.
Proven Performance in Australia’s Harsh Climate
Australia’s climate is unpredictable, with extreme heat, cyclones, and bushfires posing significant challenges. VELUX skylights are designed to meet and exceed these challenges, ensuring long-lasting performance and peace of mind for homeowners. Here’s how:
- Bushfire Tested: VELUX skylights surpass the stringent Australian Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) 40 requirements. They have been tested against a 930°C heat source, proving their resilience in bushfire-prone areas.
- Cyclone Tested: In cyclonic regions, wind pressure can be extreme. VELUX skylights are wind pressure tested in accordance with AS 4285, making them suitable for use even in Australia’s far northern cyclone-prone regions.
- Load Tested: VELUX skylights have been subjected to a 120 kg concentrated load on their two weakest points, withstanding the pressure with ease and surpassing Australian Standards AS 4285 and AS 1288.
More Than Just Hail Protection: VELUX Skylights Offer Comprehensive Benefits
While VELUX skylights are built to resist hail, they also offer a range of other benefits that make them a smart investment for any Australian home:
- 80% Heat Block: The advanced glazing technology blocks 80% of radiant heat, keeping your home cooler during scorching summer days.
- 32dB Noise Reduction: VELUX skylights reduce noise by up to 32dB, effectively lowering the sound of a lawn mower to the level of a normal conversation.
- 99% UV Block: With 99% UV blocking capability, VELUX skylights protect your interiors from fading and other damage caused by the sun’s harmful rays.
- 5-Star Energy Rating: Achieving the maximum 5 stars on the WERS summer rating, VELUX skylights excel in keeping the heat outside, enhancing your home’s energy efficiency.
The Skylight Shop Melbourne: Your Trusted Source for VELUX Skylights
At The Skylight Shop Melbourne, we understand the importance of choosing skylights that not only enhance your home’s aesthetics but also stand up to the harsh Australian climate. VELUX skylights are the ultimate solution for homeowners looking for durable, energy-efficient, and weather-resistant skylights.
Whether you’re building a new home or upgrading your existing one, VELUX skylights offer the perfect combination of style, functionality, and durability. Get in touch with us today to learn more about how VELUX skylights can transform your home while providing unmatched protection against Australia’s extreme weather events.
