Many Baton Rouge homeowners are well-versed in the challenges of hurricane season. As a homeowner in Louisiana, you can make your home stronger and safer during storms by investing in a FORTIFIED™ roof. This investment not only enhances the protection of your home but also safeguards your finances.
But how much does a FORTIFIED roof cost in Baton Rouge? The answer is not straightforward. Let’s delve into this blog post to know everything you need to know about FORTIFIED roofs.
What Is A FORTIFIED Roof?
A FORTIFIED roof is a special roofing system developed by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS) to enhance protection against severe weather. Designed for areas prone to hurricanes and tornadoes, it features improvements to handle high winds, heavy rain, hail, and tornadoes up to EF-2. This roofing standard helps minimize damage and keeps wind and rain out of the home during extreme weather events.
Key Features of a FORTIFIED Roof
- Stronger Roof Edges: Wider drip edges and starter strips prevent wind uplift.
- Sealed Roof Deck: Taped seams reduce water intrusion by up to 95%, even if shingles are damaged.
- Better Roof Attachment: Ring-shank nails nearly double the roof’s strength against wind.
- Impact-Resistant Shingles: Protect against hail up to 2 inches in diameter, reducing damage and leaks.
Average Cost Of A FORTIFIED Roof
In Baton Rouge, upgrading to a FORTIFIED roof typically costs between $1,000 and $3,000 for a 2,000-square-foot home, depending on various factors. A FORTIFIED roof is usually 1-3% more expensive than a standard roof. This extra cost can lead to significant insurance savings, potentially reducing premiums by 25-50%, and may increase the home’s resale value by about 7%.
FORTIFIED Roof Cost Breakdown
1. Material Costs
The choice of roofing material affects the total cost. FORTIFIED roofs often use impact-resistant shingles or metal roofing panels, which are pricier than standard asphalt shingles. Impact-resistant shingles usually cost between $300 and $500 per square (100 square feet), while metal roofs range from $600 to $1,200 per square.
2. Labor Costs
Installing a FORTIFIED roof costs more due to the specialized techniques used. Labor typically ranges from $150 to $300 per square, depending on the roof’s complexity and the contractor’s experience.
3. Roof Preparation
You might need to remove the old roofing materials and make repairs before you can install a FORTIFIED roof. The additional cost can range from $500 to $1,500, contingent on the state of the current roof.
4. Permits and Inspections
Local building codes generally require inspections and permits for roofing work, including upgrading to a FORTIFIED roof. A third-party inspection may cost approximately $500 in addition to the standard permit expenses of $100 to $500.
5. Insurance Discounts
One key reason to invest in a FORTIFIED roof is the potential for major insurance savings. Homeowners with FORTIFIED roofs often receive discounts of 20% to 50% on their homeowner’s insurance. This can help cover some of the initial costs and offer long-term savings.
Additional Costs Associated With A FORTIFIED Roof
1. Gold Membership
FORTIFIED Gold™ is the highest certification level, adding 1% to 3% to your roofing costs. For a $10,000 roof, this means an extra $100 to $300. It offers the best protection against severe weather and may lead to larger insurance discounts compared to FORTIFIED Silver™ or general FORTIFIED roof upgrades.
2. Verification Process
To get a FORTIFIED certification, an inspection by a FORTIFIED evaluator is needed, typically costing around $500. This inspection checks if your roof meets FORTIFIED standards and helps identify any potential weaknesses, enhancing the roof’s durability.
Financial Assistance and Grants
Homeowners can receive financial aid through programs in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to help strengthen their roofs.
The Louisiana Fortify Homes Program (LFHP), which provides funds to upgrade roofs to the FORTIFIED roof standard, is a significant project.
Louisiana Fortify Homes Program Overview
LFHP roofing grants offer up to $10,000 to enhance home resilience against severe weather, particularly after hurricanes Laura and Ida. This financial aid helps protect homes and families.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for LFHP grants, homeowners must meet certain criteria, including:
- Primary Residence: Own a single-family, owner-occupied home with a homestead exemption.
- Proof of Insurance: Show proof of active wind insurance and flood coverage if in a flood zone.
- Home Condition: Ensure the home is in good condition.
- FORTIFIED Roof Compliance: Update to comply with IBHS FORTIFIED roof standards.
- Permits and Inspections: Handle permits, inspections, and pay for a certified evaluator.
Grant Application Process
To apply for LFHP roofing grants:
- Create an Account: Homeowners must make an account on the LFHP website and are advised to sign up for email updates. Applications are only accepted during certain periods on a first-come, first-serve basis.
- Online Application: When available, complete and submit an online application through the LFHP portal.
- FORTIFIED Evaluation: Before the application can be approved, a FORTIFIED evaluation by a certified inspector is required.
- Grant Review: LFHP reviews applications for completeness and eligibility.
Cost-Benefit Analysis
1. Initial Cost vs. Long-Term Savings
The upfront cost of a FORTIFIED roof can be high, but it can lead to long-term savings. Insurance companies often offer discounts for FORTIFIED roofs due to their reduced damage risk. Plus, the increased durability means fewer repairs and replacements over time.
2. Return on Investment
A FORTIFIED roofing system boosts your home’s protection and can raise its value. Potential buyers may pay more for a home with a FORTIFIED roof, knowing it provides superior safety.
Final Cost Breakdown
Here’s an overview of where your money goes when installing a FORTIFIED roof:
Materials: 40-50% of Total Cost
- High wind-rated shingles or metal roofing panels
- Underlayment and water barriers
- Hardware, nails, sealants, etc.
Labor: 40-50% of Total Cost
- Specialized installation techniques
- Extra time for sealing and reinforcement
Additional Features: 10-20% of Total Cost
- Hurricane straps
- Sealed roof deck
- Enhanced flashing and ventilation systems
Conclusion
Investing in a FORTIFIED roof in Baton Rouge involves a significant expense, but it offers valuable benefits. The enhanced protection against severe weather, potential savings on insurance, and long-term durability can make this investment worthwhile. For many homeowners, the peace of mind during hurricane season is well worth the cost.
To get the best roofing services, choose Empire Roofing & Exteriors. Our skilled team specializes in installing FORTIFIED roofs that offer protection against severe weather. With our expertise, you’ll get a durable, high-quality roof that can help lower insurance premiums and provide peace of mind during storms. Call us at (225) 347-8877.