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Compared to a traditional roof, elements of FORTIFIED roof can reduce damage by at least 19% and up to 38%
FORTIFIED, a voluntary program of the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, is rigorously tested and researched to ensure a home is adequately protected by high-speed winds and wind driven rain.
The FORTIFIED roof is the most basic level of protection from the FORTIFIED program and can be implemented on a new home or re-roofing project. The Louisiana Department of Insurance is offering grants up to $10,000 to homeowners through the Louisiana FORTIFY Homes Program. To learn more about the grant application process, requirements, and opening dates, visit the Department of Insurance's website.
Sealed roof deck with enhanced roof deck attachments:
FORTIFIED mandates the use of 8D ring shank nails for roof deck attachment. These specialized nails feature raised rings or spirals that can double the wind uplift resistance of the roof. This keeps the roof deck and other layers secured to the frame of the home and prevents wind uplift.
A roof deck if commonly oriented strand board or plywood panels, with some historic homes utilizing 1-inch-thick boards. The thickness requirements for these panels change regionally.
Tape runs along the seams of the roof and seals the gaps between roof deck sheathing panels, offering protection against water intrusion in the event of shingle damage. According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, a sealed roof deck can reduce water entry into your home by an impressive 95%.
Secondary water barrier secured with drip edge:
A secondary waterproof barrier above the tape on the roof deck adds an extra layer of defense against rain in case of shingle damage. This additional safeguard ensures that even if the primary layer is damaged, your home remains shielded from potential water damage.
The drip edge is a metal piece that runs along the edge of the roof and secures the roof’s underlayment to the rest of the roof.
Shingle starter strip:
These adhesive strips provide a secure foundation for the first layer of shingles, ensuring subsequent layers adhere seamlessly to the secondary barrier.
