A Fortified Certified Roof refers to a roofing system that meets specific, high-quality standards designed to make it more resistant to severe weather, including high winds, heavy rain, and even hail. The Fortified Roofing Program is a certification issued by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), aimed at providing homeowners with extra protection and peace of mind by ensuring that their roof is built to withstand extreme weather conditions.
What is a Fortified Certified Roof?
A Fortified Certified Roof is a roof that has been installed or reinforced according to the Fortified Roof standards. These standards include specific building techniques, materials, and design practices that help the roof resist damage from natural disasters, particularly high winds and storms. A Fortified Certified Roof is designed to perform better than a typical roof, offering enhanced protection for your home.
Key features of a Fortified Certified Roof include:
- Wind Resistance: Fortified roofs are built to withstand high winds (e.g., 130 mph or more) that typically occur in hurricanes and severe storms.
- Improved Material Durability: The materials used in a Fortified roof are selected for their strength and ability to resist damage from wind, rain, and other weather conditions.
- Additional Fasteners & Reinforcements: The roof structure is reinforced with additional fasteners, which helps prevent shingles from being torn off by high winds.
- Superior Leak Prevention: Fortified roofs have advanced water-resistant barriers and underlayment to minimize the risk of leaks caused by heavy rainfall or wind-driven rain.
What is a Fortified Certified Roofer?
A Fortified Certified Roofer is a roofing contractor who has received specialized training and certification to install roofs that meet the Fortified standards. These roofers are trained to properly install the required materials, follow specific installation techniques, and ensure that all the necessary reinforcements are in place to achieve the Fortified certification. They are knowledgeable about the IBHS guidelines and work with homeowners to meet the necessary criteria for certification.
Benefits of a Fortified Certified Roof:
- Increased Protection: A Fortified roof is designed to provide superior protection against wind, hail, and water damage.
- Lower Insurance Premiums: Many insurance companies offer discounts for homes with a Fortified Certified Roof due to the added protection against weather-related damage.
- Increased Home Value: Homes with a Fortified roof may have higher resale value since the roof is built to last longer and withstand more severe weather.
- Peace of Mind: Homeowners can feel confident that their roof is better equipped to handle extreme weather conditions, reducing the risk of costly repairs and damage.
If you're looking for a roofing contractor to install a roof that meets these standards, make sure to choose a Fortified Certified Roofer who can help you achieve this certification for your home.