When Hurricane Katrina tore through the Gulf Coast, few structures were left unscathed. Yet buildings clad with architectural precast concrete from Wells stood as proof of the system’s lasting strength and reliability. Designed to withstand both high wind loads and impact forces, these facades protected critical facilities even as neighboring structures were severely damaged or destroyed.

One such example is the Federal Courthouse in Gulfport, MS, which endured sustained winds of 132 mph at the height of the storm. Designed to federal blast-resistance standards, the courthouse features architectural prefabricated panels with granite cladding at the base and entryway. The space suffered only minor exterior damage, broken windows, a few missing metal letters, and limited granite impact, while the precast panels themselves remained completely intact.