What is FORTIFIED Roofing?
If you live near the coast, you already know a roof in southeastern North Carolina has a harder job than one in many parts of the country. Wind-driven rain, tropical systems and long stretches of hot, humid weather all put roofing details to the test.
That is where a FORTIFIED Roof comes in. FORTIFIED is a construction and re-roofing standard developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS). It focuses on specific details that can help a roof resist severe weather. It is not simply a brand of shingle, and installing new shingles by itself does not automatically make a home FORTIFIED.
What makes a FORTIFIED Roof different?
A standard roof replacement and a FORTIFIED Roof can use many of the same visible roofing materials. The important differences are often underneath the shingles and in the way vulnerable parts of the roof are installed and documented.
- Roof deck attachment: the roof deck is secured using prescribed fastening requirements.
- Sealed roof deck: additional protection is used to reduce water entry if the roof covering is damaged during a storm.
- Stronger edge details: roof edges and related components receive special attention because wind pressure can be especially tough on these areas.
- Installation documentation: a FORTIFIED project involves documentation and verification of required construction details rather than relying only on how the finished roof looks.
Those details matter in Wilmington and throughout New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender Counties, where roofs routinely face coastal wind and rain.
Is FORTIFIED the same as a stronger shingle?
No. This is one of the most common misunderstandings we hear. FORTIFIED is a roofing system and standard, not a particular shingle package. A good architectural shingle is important, but the deck, underlayment, edges, flashing and installation methods all work together.
That is why it makes sense to discuss FORTIFIED before a roof replacement starts. Some of the most important work is covered up as the roof is installed.
Who should consider a FORTIFIED Roof?
It is worth considering if you are already planning a roof replacement, especially on a home exposed to coastal storms. It can also make sense for homeowners who simply want to know what options are available before choosing a roofing specification.
Every house is different. Roof shape, existing decking, ventilation, flashing and other conditions can affect the work required. We would rather inspect the roof and explain what applies to that particular house than give a one-size-fits-all answer over the phone.
FORTIFIED Roof installation in the Wilmington area
Affordable Roofing & Construction LLC offers FORTIFIED Roof installations along with conventional roof repairs and roof replacements. We serve homeowners in New Hanover County, Brunswick County and Pender County.
If you are replacing your roof and want to compare a conventional replacement with a FORTIFIED option, call Affordable Roofing & Construction LLC at 910-338-9654. We can look at the existing roof, talk through the options and give you a straightforward estimate for the work that makes sense for your home.
Quick questions homeowners ask us
Does a new roof automatically qualify as FORTIFIED?
No. FORTIFIED has specific requirements and verification steps. A normal roof replacement should not be described as FORTIFIED simply because new materials were installed.
Do I need to wait for storm damage to consider FORTIFIED?
No. The best time to discuss it is usually while planning a roof replacement, before the old roofing is removed and the new system is installed.
Can Affordable Roofing & Construction LLC inspect my existing roof first?
Yes. An inspection lets us see the roof’s current condition and discuss repair, replacement and FORTIFIED Roof options based on the actual house rather than guessing.
