For homeowners in Louisiana, the question of whether a FORTIFIED roof is a worthwhile investment is a critical one. Given our state’s susceptibility to hurricanes, tropical storms, and severe weather, a roofing system that provides superior protection is a significant asset. The simple answer is yes, a FORTIFIED roof is an excellent investment. It is not just a type of shingle; it is a construction standard designed to make your home more resilient. By following a specific set of installation guidelines, a FORTIFIED roof provides enhanced protection against high winds and wind-driven rain, leading to long-term savings and invaluable peace of mind.
What Exactly is a FORTIFIED Roof?
A FORTIFIED roof is not a brand of roofing material you can simply buy at a store. It is a set of rigorous construction standards developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) that focuses on strengthening the most vulnerable areas of your home against severe weather. A certified FORTIFIED roof is designed to resist hurricane-force winds, and the installation process is meticulously followed and documented by a certified evaluator. This is what makes it so different from a standard roof replacement. The process includes three key elements: a sealed roof deck, enhanced attachment of the shingles, and reinforced edges. These elements work together to ensure your roof can withstand extreme conditions.
How Do FORTIFIED Roofs Protect Your Home From Louisiana Storms?
The construction standards of a FORTIFIED roof directly address the most common points of failure during a hurricane or severe storm, which are especially important for homeowners in Baton Rouge.
- Sealed Roof Deck: During a hurricane, strong winds can tear off shingles, leaving your roof deck exposed. If the roof decking is not sealed, water can easily seep through and cause significant damage to your attic, ceilings, and walls. A FORTIFIED roof uses a special adhesive or a secondary waterproof barrier to create a sealed deck. This acts as a critical second line of defense, keeping water out of your home even if the top layer of shingles is compromised.
- Enhanced Shingle Attachment: The standard method of installing shingles is with four nails per shingle. The FORTIFIED standard requires six nails per shingle, and they must be placed in a specific pattern. This seemingly small change dramatically increases the shingle’s ability to resist being lifted or blown off in high winds, helping to prevent catastrophic damage.
- Reinforced Edges: The edges of the roof are the most vulnerable area during a wind event. A FORTIFIED roof secures the perimeter with a special drip edge and fortified flashing, which are attached with more fasteners than a standard installation. This prevents the “peeling” effect where strong winds get under the edge and peel the roof away from the house like the lid of a tin can.
Can a FORTIFIED Roof Save You Money on Your Insurance?
One of the most compelling reasons to choose a FORTIFIED roof is the potential for significant savings on your homeowners’ insurance premiums. Many insurance companies in Louisiana and other coastal states are required by law to offer discounts for homes that have a certified FORTIFIED designation. These discounts can be substantial, often 20% or more, on the wind and hail portion of your policy.
While the initial cost of a FORTIFIED roof is higher due to the extra materials and specialized labor, the insurance savings can help offset that investment over time. For example, a 20% discount on a $2,000 annual premium could save you $400 a year. These savings add up quickly and can make the investment pay for itself in a few years, all while providing your home with superior protection.
Do FORTIFIED Roofs Add Value to Your Home?
In addition to insurance savings, a FORTIFIED roof can significantly increase the value of your property. When it comes time to sell your home, a FORTIFIED certification is a powerful selling point. Potential buyers in Louisiana are well aware of the risks of severe weather, and a home that is professionally certified to resist those risks is a highly desirable asset. The certification tells buyers that the home is more durable, requires less maintenance in the long run, and comes with the added benefit of lower insurance premiums. A FORTIFIED home is seen as a smarter, more secure investment.
A FORTIFIED roof is not just an expense; it is a strategic investment in the long-term security, value, and resilience of your home.
Is A FORTIFIED Roof Worth The Investment?
A FORTIFIED roof is more expensive than a standard roof replacement because of the additional materials and labor required to meet the stringent standards. However, it’s important to view this as a strategic investment rather than a simple cost. The added expense upfront is a small price to pay for the long-term benefits you receive. You get a roofing system that is proven to withstand some of the toughest weather conditions, and you gain access to valuable insurance discounts and increased property value. It’s an investment that provides both financial returns and unparalleled peace of mind.
The Louisiana Fortify Homes Program (LFHP): Grant Funding for a Stronger Roof
While the insurance savings on a FORTIFIED roof can be substantial, Louisiana homeowners have an even more compelling reason to choose this option: the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program (LFHP). This is a state-run grant program that helps homeowners strengthen their roofs to better withstand hurricane-force winds.
The program provides grants of up to $10,000 for eligible homeowners to upgrade their existing roofs to the FORTIFIED Roof Standard. This can significantly reduce or even eliminate your out-of-pocket costs for the specialized materials and labor required for a FORTIFIED roof.
How it Works:
- The Completed Project Must Be Certified: For the grant to be issued, your completed roofing project must meet the FORTIFIED Roof Standard as verified by an independent FORTIFIED Evaluator.
- Grant Funding is for Construction Costs: The funds are limited to construction costs directly related to the FORTIFIED upgrade.
- Don’t Start Work Early: The program does not permit the use of grant funds for homeowners who have already started work on their roof without first receiving an LFHP grant approval.
We can guide you through the process, from helping you find an approved FORTIFIED Evaluator to ensuring your new roof meets all the necessary standards for the grant.
Ready to Protect Your Home with a FORTIFIED Roof?
Protecting your home from the unpredictable weather in Louisiana is essential. A FORTIFIED roof provides a superior level of protection that a standard roof simply cannot match, giving you confidence during any storm.
B&H Construction is a certified FORTIFIED professional, committed to providing the highest level of roofing installation and service to homeowners throughout Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and nearby areas, including Denham Springs, Gonzales, and Sorrento. We are dedicated to building roofs that protect your family and your investment. To discuss your roofing needs or to learn more about the FORTIFIED program, call us today at (225) 406-7003!
