Living in an area prone to hurricanes, heavy winds, or other extreme weather can be stressful, especially when it comes to protecting your roof. That’s where a fortified roof comes in, designed to provide long-term protection. The upgrade not only shields your home from severe weather but also adds value to a property.
From high winds and storm damage to simple roof longevity, this guide will show you everything you need to know about fortified roofing. You’ll learn what sets a fortified roof apart, the numerous benefits, and how to determine if your home is a good candidate.
Fortified Roofing Explained
A fortified roof is a roofing system specifically engineered to provide superior protection against extreme weather.
While all roofs offer some degree of defense, a fortified roof goes beyond the standard. It reinforces key areas to better handle the forces of high winds, heavy rain, and storms. This added protection is especially important for homes in regions frequently affected by hurricanes, tornadoes, or other severe weather events.
The primary goal of a fortified roof is to minimize damage and safeguard your home, preventing costly repairs and maintaining the structural integrity of the building.
This roofing upgrade also increases the longevity of the roof, giving homeowners peace of mind that their home is better prepared for whatever nature throws its way.
What Specifics Set It Apart?
- Reinforced Materials in Vulnerable Areas: Fortified roofs focus on reinforcing the edges and corners—the points most vulnerable to wind damage. Special materials and techniques are used to secure these areas so they’re far less likely to fail.
- Stronger Fastening Systems: The shingles and roof components are attached using enhanced fastening methods, such as stronger nails or more frequent nailing patterns. This ensures the roof stays intact, even in winds over 100 mph, significantly reducing the risk of shingles flying off and exposing the home.
- Improved Water Barriers: Multiple layers of waterproofing protect against water intrusion. Even if the outer roofing materials are compromised, these barriers help prevent leaks, which are one of the most common causes of expensive structural damage after a storm.
Is Your Home a Good Match?
Not all homes require a fortified roof, but if you live in an area prone to extreme weather, it’s a smart investment. Homes located in coastal regions, hurricane zones, or areas regularly affected by strong winds, tornadoes, or heavy storms benefit the most from fortified roofing.
Consider the following factors when deciding if your home is a good candidate:
- Location: If your home is in a region with frequent severe weather events, such as the Gulf Coast or Southeast, a fortified roof provides crucial protection.
- Roof Condition: Homes with aging or damaged roofs may be more vulnerable to storm damage. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan or has been through multiple storms, upgrading to a fortified roof can prevent future issues.
- Home Structure: The design and structure of your home can also affect how well it stands up to extreme weather. Fortified roofing is especially beneficial for homes with complex rooflines or older homes that may not have been built to modern wind resistance standards.
If you’re unsure or haven’t had a professional inspection of your roof in a while, an expert assessment can help plan your best steps.
Fortified Roof Installation: What to Expect
Installing a fortified roof involves more than just adding stronger shingles or materials. It’s a process that requires certified professionals who understand the specific standards and guidelines of the Fortified Home program. Here’s what homeowners can expect during a typical fortified roof installation:
- Initial Evaluation: A certified roofing expert will start by assessing the current condition of your roof. This includes checking for any existing damage and identifying areas that require reinforcement to meet the Fortified Home standards.
- Reinforcement: Critical areas such as the edges, corners, and roof deck are reinforced using enhanced materials and fastening systems. These reinforcements are specifically designed to withstand the impacts of high winds and heavy rain.
- Waterproofing: Additional layers of waterproofing are installed to prevent water from penetrating the roof, even if shingles are damaged. This step is crucial for preventing leaks and long-term water damage, which can be some of the most costly repairs after a storm.
Timeframe
The installation timeline depends on several factors, including the size and complexity of your roof, the condition of your existing roof, and the weather.
On average, a fortified roof installation can take anywhere from 3 to 7 days. Keep in mind that delays can happen, especially if weather conditions are unfavorable, but a professional roofing company will keep you updated and work to complete the job efficiently and correctly.
Other Fortified Standards and Offerings
The Fortified Home program offers different levels of protection to fit your home’s unique needs. Each level focuses on varying aspects of your home’s structural integrity.
The Fortified roof designation is the most common level, focusing solely on reinforcing the roof to resist high winds and prevent water damage. It’s an excellent choice for homeowners looking for added roof protection without the need for full structural upgrades.
- Fortified Silver: In addition to roof reinforcement, Fortified Silver adds protection for exterior openings. Doors and windows are fortified to ensure that the most vulnerable parts of the exterior prevent moisture and other damage.
- Fortified Gold: The most comprehensive level strengthens the entire structure of the home. This includes the roof, walls, and foundation, providing complete protection against severe weather events.
Beyond the roof, it’s also important to maintain your home’s certification with periodic fortified evaluations. These make sure that your roof continues to meet the necessary standards, especially after major weather events.
For homeowners in Alabama and Louisiana seeking a solution, Knockout Inspections can provide evaluations to help you determine which level of protection is best suited to your home and needs.
Recommended Maintenance for Any Roof
Whether you have a fortified roof or not, regular roof maintenance is crucial to its longevity and performance.
Simple, routine upkeep can help prevent small issues from turning into major, costly repairs. Here are a few ways to keep your roof in excellent condition:
- Clear Debris: Leaves, branches, and other debris can block gutters and trap moisture, leading to leaks and roof damage. Keep gutters and downspouts clear, especially after storms.
- Inspect After Storms: High winds and heavy rain can damage shingles, flashing, and other parts of your roof. Check for missing or cracked shingles and have any damage repaired quickly.
- Trim Overhanging Trees: Tree branches can scrape your roof or fall during a storm, causing damage. Keep trees near your home well-trimmed to reduce the risk of harm to your roof.
- Schedule Regular Inspections: Even if you don’t notice any visible damage, scheduling a professional roof inspection every year can catch issues early and extend your roof’s life.
When to Call a Professional
Sometimes, it’s easy to tell when your roof needs attention, but other issues aren’t as obvious. Knowing when to call a professional can save you from larger problems down the road.
- Visible Damage: Missing, curling, or cracked shingles are signs that your roof is no longer properly sealed and needs repair.
- Water Stains: Water stains on your ceilings or walls could be a sign of a roof leak.
- Roof Age: Most roofs last about 20 years. If your roof is approaching this age, it’s a good idea to schedule a professional inspection.
- Post-Storm Inspection: After any major storm, it’s a good idea to have your roof inspected. Wind and rain can cause subtle damage that isn’t immediately noticeable but could lead to bigger problems over time.
A roofing expert can assess the condition of your roof, recommend repairs or upgrades, and ensure it’s ready to protect your home from the next storm.
Final Thoughts
A fortified roof is one of the best investments you can make for your home. That’s especially true if you get frequent severe weather. Not only does it provide added protection, but it also increases the longevity of your roof and can even lower your insurance premiums.