Sto Corp., the innovative world leader in building envelope solutions including wall cladding systems, air barriers, coatings, and restoration systems, announces enhancements to its High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) Systems, now featuring a Level E impact-rated wall assembly designed to meet the highest performance demands for critical building applications exposed to extreme weather and multi-hazard conditions.

Level E impact-rated systems are designed for areas where enhanced protection is required beyond large missile classifications. These assemblies are typically specified for essential buildings and provide proven impact resistance, moisture protection, and system performance within a fully tested, code-compliant wall assembly. 

Sto has long provided hurricane-resistant wall systems engineered to protect against extreme wind, water intrusion, and wind-borne debris. With this latest update, Sto expands its offering to include Level E impact resistance, delivering an additional layer of protection for essential facilities such as hospitals, emergency response centers, and other structures that must remain operational during and after severe storm events. 

Sto HVHZ Systems are fully engineered and tested assemblies designed to meet the stringent requirements of the Florida Building Code, with systems carrying Miami-Dade County Notice of Acceptance (NOA) and/or Florida Statewide Product Approval as applicable. These systems are evaluated for wind load, impact resistance, air leakage, and water resistance, ensuring comprehensive performance across the entire wall assembly. While developed to meet the stringent requirements of High Velocity Hurricane Zones, these systems also provide proven protection against other severe weather conditions, including tornado-force winds, hail impact, and wind-driven rain.

The enhanced HVHZ portfolio includes a range of system configurations to support diverse project needs, including rainscreen, EIFS, and stucco assemblies, along with options for both field-applied and prefabricated systems.  This flexibility allows for a variety of construction approaches while maintaining consistent performance. Sto offers a wide range of facade options, from glass, masonry brick, and fiber cement to finishes that replicate the look of brick, wood, and smooth or textured surfaces, giving architects extensive design freedom without compromising durability or code compliance. 

“Building in high-risk environments requires more than meeting minimum code requirements,” said Karine Galla, Director of Product Management at Sto Corp. “With the addition of our Level E impact-rated assembly, we are strengthening our HVHZ system offering to deliver higher levels of protection while maintaining the design flexibility architects expect from Sto.”

Sto HVHZ Systems can be installed across a variety of construction types, including steel framing, wood framing, and concrete masonry, and are designed to provide long-term durability in some of the most demanding weather conditions in North America.