As a homeowner, there’s nothing more important than protecting your biggest investment – your house. And when it comes to weathering the storms, your roof is your first line of defense. But let’s be honest, thinking about roof resilience isn’t exactly the most thrilling topic. It’s kind of like the boring but necessary task of flossing your teeth – you know it’s important, but it’s easy to put it off until the next big downpour leaves you with a leaky ceiling.
Well, I’m here to shake things up and show you why roof resilience should be at the top of your home maintenance priority list. Because let me tell you, the weather these days is no joke. In 2020 alone, we had 30 named tropical systems, over 1,000 confirmed tornadoes, and a derecho that became the costliest thunderstorm in U.S. history. Collectively, these severe weather events caused around $100 billion in damage, and IBHS post-storm studies generally show that between 70 and 90% of related insurance claims include damage to the roof.
So, if you’re feeling a bit like a sitting duck, waiting for the next big storm to roll through and wreak havoc on your shingles, then it’s time to take action. And that’s where the FORTIFIED construction standard comes in.
Fortifying Your Roof for the Long Haul
FORTIFIED is a voluntary construction and re-roofing program designed to strengthen homes and commercial buildings against specific types of severe weather, such as high winds, hail, hurricanes, and even tornadoes. It’s the result of decades of research and testing, all focused on identifying the common weaknesses in homes built using conventional construction standards and finding the best solutions to address them.
As a homeowner, the FORTIFIED program is like having a superpower for your roof. By asking your contractor to follow the FORTIFIED construction method, you’re essentially equipping your home with the ultimate storm-ready armor. Think of it as the difference between a flimsy umbrella and a bulletproof shield – you know which one you’d want to have when the rain starts pouring down.
The FORTIFIED Difference
So, what sets the FORTIFIED approach apart from your run-of-the-mill roofing job? Well, it all comes down to the extra attention to detail and the use of specialized materials and techniques. For starters, FORTIFIED-certified roofers are trained to properly secure the roof deck, which is the foundation of your roof system. They’ll use a specialized adhesive or mechanical fasteners to ensure that the deck is firmly attached to the rest of your home’s structure, making it much less likely to blow off in high winds.
But it doesn’t stop there. FORTIFIED roofers also use impact-resistant shingles or other roofing materials that are designed to withstand the beating of hail, flying debris, and other severe weather hazards. And don’t forget about the crucial task of properly sealing and flashing the roof’s vulnerable areas, like the edges and penetrations. This helps prevent water intrusion and ensure that your roof stays watertight, even in the face of torrential downpours.
The Certification Process
Now, you might be wondering, “How do I know if my roof is truly FORTIFIED?” Well, that’s where the certification process comes in. To earn a FORTIFIED designation, your home or building will need to undergo an independent evaluation by a trained FORTIFIED Evaluator. This expert will thoroughly inspect the roof and other key areas to verify that the FORTIFIED construction standards have been properly applied.
Once the evaluation is complete, the documentation is reviewed by a team of FORTIFIED experts at the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS). If your home or building meets the rigorous FORTIFIED criteria, you’ll be awarded the official designation, letting you and your insurance provider know that your roof has the best chance of surviving the next big storm.
The Benefits of a FORTIFIED Roof
Now, you might be thinking, “Okay, this all sounds great, but what’s in it for me?” Well, let me tell you, the benefits of a FORTIFIED-certified roof go far beyond just peace of mind.
First and foremost, a FORTIFIED roof can save you a boatload of money in the long run. By better protecting your home from severe weather damage, you’ll likely see a reduction in your insurance premiums. And let’s not forget about the potential for avoiding costly roof repairs or even a full roof replacement after a major storm. FORTIFIED roofs are simply built to last, which means you can say goodbye to the endless cycle of patching and replacing.
But the benefits don’t stop there. A FORTIFIED roof can also increase the value of your home, making it a more attractive proposition for potential buyers down the line. And let’s not forget about the emotional toll of dealing with storm damage – a FORTIFIED roof can give you the confidence to weather any storm, without the added stress of worrying about your home’s structural integrity.
Putting the Pieces Together
So, how do you get started on your journey to a FORTIFIED roof? Well, the first step is to assess the current condition of your roof. The FORTIFIED packet includes a handy checklist to help you determine if your roof has been damaged by a storm, is showing signs of aging, or is in good condition. Once you’ve got a handle on the state of your roof, you can reach out to a FORTIFIED-trained contractor in your area to start the process of upgrading your home’s defenses.
And let me tell you, the team at Southern Roofing Company is more than ready to help you on this mission. As FORTIFIED experts, they’ll guide you through every step of the process, from understanding the certification requirements to ensuring that your new roof is built to withstand the harshest weather conditions.
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to take control of your roof’s resilience and give your home the ultimate protection against the elements. With a FORTIFIED-certified roof, you can rest easy, knowing that your biggest investment is well-equipped to handle whatever Mother Nature throws its way.