Louisiana, known for its diverse culture and lively atmosphere, also faces the constant threat of severe weather. Hurricanes, high winds, hailstorms, and heavy rain are not just occasional occurrences, but formidable forces that can devastate homes and communities.
This is where a FORTIFIED Roof™ comes into play.
At Empire Roofing & Exteriors, we’re here to help you learn why having a FORTIFIED roof in Louisiana is not just a choice but a necessity. In this blog post, we will elaborate on the following:
- What is a FORTIFIED roof?
- Benefits of this roofing system
- Details of the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program
What Is A FORTIFIED Roof?
Established in 1977, the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS) offers valuable facts and information about safeguarding properties against storm damage. FORTIFIED Homes is a program launched by the IBHS Research Center, and the FORTIFIED roof program is one part of it.
A FORTIFIED roof is a roof installed using the guidelines of the FORTIFIED Homes program. It is a specialized construction and re-roofing program designed to strengthen homes and commercial buildings against specific types of severe weather. This program sets strict standards and conditions aimed at constructing roofs to withstand the impact of high winds, hurricanes, hailstorms, severe thunderstorms, and even tornadoes up to EF-2 intensity.
The primary components of a FORTIFIED roof include:
- Stronger Edges: Reinforced roof edges to prevent uplift and damage during high winds.
- Engineered Wall-to-Foundation Connections: Secure connections between the roof and the building’s foundation to enhance overall structural stability.
- Gable End Bracing: Bracing systems to strengthen gable ends, which are more vulnerable during storms.
- Stronger Roof Deck: Use of enhanced roof decking materials to provide additional protection against wind-driven rain and debris.
- Sealed Roof Deck: Ensuring the roof deck is properly sealed to prevent water intrusion.
- Better Attachment: Improved attachment methods for roofing materials to prevent them from being lifted or torn off during storms.
- Impact-Resistant Shingles: Shingles designed to withstand impacts from hail and wind-blown debris.
- Reinforced Soffits: Soffits are reinforced to resist wind uplift.
- Anchored Attached Structures: Securing attached structures such as carports or patio covers to prevent damage.
These requirements work together to create a unified and resilient structure, reducing the risk of roof failure and damage to the home during storms.
How A FORTIFIED Roof Can Benefit Louisiana Homeowners
The benefits of having a FORTIFIED roof in Louisiana extend far beyond mere protection from severe weather. This roofing system comes with cost savings, peace of mind, and greater strength for homes and neighborhoods.
Superior Protection
This roofing system provides a high level of protection against hurricanes, high winds, hailstorms, and tornadoes up to EF-2 intensity. By meeting strict construction standards, these roofing systems are better equipped to withstand the impact of strong winds, flying debris, and heavy precipitation, reducing the risk of damage to the home’s interior and contents.
Mitigation of Damage
One of the primary advantages of these roofs is their ability to mitigate damage during storms. By strengthening more vulnerable areas, such as edges, connections, and attachments, FORTIFIED roofs are less likely to experience failure or structural damage. This will minimize repair costs and disruptions to your daily life.
Cost Savings
While the first investment may be higher than that of a standard roof, the long term financial benefits of this roof are much higher. This storm damage mitigation can prevent costly repairs and replacements, ultimately saving your time and resources.
Insurance Discounts
Many insurance companies in Louisiana provide discounts for homes with FORTIFIED roofs. With such a sturdy roofing system, you can qualify for higher discounts on your insurance premiums, making this roof a financially smart investment in the long run.
Peace of Mind
Knowing that your home is prepared with a premium roofing system can take all your worries away, especially if your home is along the Gulf Coast. FORTIFIED roofs offer reassurance that your home is better prepared to withstand nature’s fury, reducing anxiety and stress during storm season and enhancing overall feelings of security and safety.
Durability
FORTIFIED roofs are built to last, with durable materials and construction techniques designed to withstand storms for many years. By investing in this roofing system, you can enjoy greater strength and durability, reducing the need for frequent repairs and replacements over the life of the home.
Community Resilience
By investing in a FORTIFIED roof, you contribute to the strength and stability of your community. Having a safe and sturdy home can help you lower the impact of severe storms on your neighborhood’s infrastructure, reduce the pressure on emergency response teams, and encourage greater unity and recovery in the aftermath of disasters.
Next, here’s an overview of Louisiana’s very own Fortify Homes Program.
Understanding The Louisiana Fortify Homes Program
The Louisiana Fortify Homes Program aims to provide homeowners with the financial support needed to upgrade their roofs to FORTIFIED roof standards. Through this program, eligible homeowners can receive grants of up to $10,000, empowering them to invest in the structural enhancements necessary to safeguard their homes against hurricanes, high winds, hailstorms, and other severe weather.
Unlike traditional grant programs, the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program offers a comprehensive approach to strengthening homes. Rather than focusing solely on cosmetic improvements or minor repairs, this program prioritizes the implementation of the requirements of the IBHS FORTIFIED Homes program.
Moreover, the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program goes beyond merely providing financial assistance, it serves as a catalyst for positive change within communities. By incentivizing homeowners to fortify their roofs, the program helps create a sense of preparedness and strength, promoting safer and more sustainable neighborhoods across the state.
Eligibility Requirements For The Louisiana Fortify Homes Program
By adhering to these eligibility requirements, homeowners can access the resources and support offered by the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program to upgrade their roofs against severe weather events:
#1 Primary Residence Status
The Louisiana Fortify Homes Program is available exclusively for primary residences. Condominiums and mobile homes are excluded from eligibility, which makes sure that the program is focused on strengthening the permanent dwellings of Louisiana homeowners.
#2 Insurance Coverage
To qualify for the program, you must maintain active residential insurance policies with coverage for both wind and flood events. This requirement puts stress on the importance of complete insurance protection against the expected natural disasters in Louisiana.
#3 Home Condition Evaluation
If you want to enjoy the benefits of the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program, your home needs to undergo a careful evaluation process conducted by a certified FORTIFIED Evaluator. This inspection will examine the current condition of your home and specify if it is prepared for the necessary upgrades.
#4 Hiring An Approved Contractor
To take part in the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program, it is essential to hire an approved FORTIFIED contractor for the work. These contractors are certified and trained to implement the specific construction techniques and materials required to modify roofs to the program’s standards. You must ensure your chosen contractor is certified so that you can be eligible for program benefits and grants.
After fortifying your roof, you need to take care of a few tasks to continue keeping your home safe and enjoy all the benefits of your new roof.
Homeowner’s Responsibilities
Here’s what you need to do after getting a new FORTIFIED roof:
Renewal of the FORTIFIED Designation
The FORTIFIED designation is valid for a duration of five years, after which it must be renewed by a certified evaluator. This renewal process serves as a checkpoint to ensure that the structural integrity and resilience of the roof remain intact over time. By undergoing periodic evaluations and renewals, you can rest assured that your roof continues to be FORTIFIED.
Transfer of Ownership
One of the hallmark features of the FORTIFIED designation is its transferability. This means that the designation can be transferred from one homeowner to another, even in instances of property ownership change. This transferability provision ensures that the benefits of this roofing system are not tied solely to the original homeowner but extend seamlessly to subsequent owners as well. Consequently, prospective buyers can inherit the peace of mind and protection afforded by a FORTIFIED roof, further enhancing the property’s value. So don’t forget to emphasize this selling point!
If you are a homeowner in Louisiana and are looking for more information on this topic, we’re here to help!
Schedule A Free Consultation With Southeastern Louisiana’s Best Roofing Contractor!
At Empire Roofing & Exteriors, we’re proud to be among the best roofing contractors in Baton Rouge and the surrounding areas. We’ve grown up in this community and seen how destructive storms can be. That’s why we make it a priority to protect the homes in our neighborhood and support our fellow homeowners with our honest and high grade services. We work with premium roofing materials that qualify under FORTIFIED roofing materials, such as slate, tile, and stone-coated metal. If you are looking to upgrade your home with a FORTIFIED roof in Louisiana, call us at (225) 347-8877. Schedule a free consultation with our experts to discuss your residential roofing project in Southeastern Louisiana.