What is a FORTIFIED™ Metal Roof? The Process, Installation, and Benefits

In the face of increasing climate change and the growing intensity of weather events, protecting your home from severe storms, high winds, hail, and hurricanes has become a priority for homeowners, especially in coastal or storm-prone areas. A FORTIFIED™ Metal Roof represents one of the most advanced solutions available for safeguarding your home, combining the inherent strength and durability of metal roofing with the scientifically designed protection of the FORTIFIED Roof™ program.

This article explores in detail what a FORTIFIED™ metal roof is, the step-by-step process of installation, and the many benefits it offers. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of why a FORTIFIED™ metal roof may be the best investment for the long-term protection and value of your home.

Chapter 1: Understanding What a FORTIFIED™ Metal Roof Is

1.1. What is the FORTIFIED Roof™ Program?

The FORTIFIED Roof™ program was developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing property damage and losses from natural disasters through advanced building science. The FORTIFIED™ Roof system incorporates specific materials, construction techniques, and installation guidelines designed to improve a roof’s resilience to severe weather.

A FORTIFIED™ metal roof is a metal roofing system that meets the rigorous standards set by the IBHS. The program is especially important for homes in areas prone to extreme weather, including hurricanes, high winds, hailstorms, and even tornadoes. Unlike conventional roofs, which are often vulnerable to damage in such conditions, a FORTIFIED™ metal roof is built to withstand the forces of severe weather and protect your home against catastrophic failure.

1.2. Why Metal Roofs?

Metal roofs are an increasingly popular choice among homeowners because of their durability, longevity, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. When combined with the FORTIFIED™ standards, metal roofing provides an even greater level of protection.

Key advantages of metal roofs include:

  • Durability: Metal roofs can last 50 years or more with proper maintenance.
  • Wind Resistance: Metal roofs are naturally more resistant to high winds compared to asphalt shingles or other roofing materials.
  • Fire Resistance: Metal roofs are non-combustible, providing protection in areas prone to wildfires.
  • Energy Efficiency: Metal roofs reflect heat from the sun, reducing cooling costs in warmer climates.

1.3. FORTIFIED™ Roof Designations

The FORTIFIED Roof™ program offers three levels of protection for homes:

  1. FORTIFIED Roof™: This designation focuses on reinforcing the roof itself to withstand high winds, heavy rain, and hail.
  2. FORTIFIED Silver™: In addition to strengthening the roof, this level includes protections for doors, windows, and other exterior elements.
  3. FORTIFIED Gold™: The highest level of protection, FORTIFIED Gold™, ensures that the entire structure, including the foundation, is fortified against extreme weather events.

A FORTIFIED™ metal roof falls under the FORTIFIED Roof™ category and is designed to provide enhanced protection for the roof, the most vulnerable part of a home during a storm.

Chapter 2: The Components of a FORTIFIED™ Metal Roof

A FORTIFIED™ metal roof goes beyond traditional roofing systems by incorporating specific components and techniques to enhance resilience. Let’s examine the key elements that make a FORTIFIED™ metal roof superior in protecting your home.

2.1. Stronger Roof Edges

One of the most common ways roofs fail during storms is at the edges. High winds can easily get under the edges of a roof, peeling it away from the home. Once the edges are compromised, the entire roof becomes vulnerable to being ripped off.

The FORTIFIED™ Roof standard requires stronger roof edges by using a wider drip edge and a fully adhered starter strip. These materials help secure the roof at its most vulnerable points, preventing wind from penetrating underneath and lifting the roof off.

2.2. Sealed Roof Deck

In traditional roofing systems, if the roof covering (such as shingles or metal panels) is damaged or blown off, the wood roof deck beneath is exposed. Rainwater can then enter through the gaps between the roof deck boards, leading to significant water damage in the interior of the home.

The FORTIFIED™ Roof standard addresses this risk by requiring a sealed roof deck. This involves installing a continuous, secondary water barrier (such as a peel-and-stick underlayment) that seals the gaps in the roof deck. Even if the roof covering is blown away, the sealed deck prevents water from entering the home, significantly reducing the potential for damage.

2.3. Enhanced Fasteners and Attachment Methods

In a standard roof installation, smooth nails are commonly used to attach the roof deck to the home’s framing. However, these nails can easily be loosened or pulled out by high winds, leading to roof failure.

A FORTIFIED™ metal roof requires ring-shank nails or other approved fasteners that provide a much stronger hold. Ring-shank nails feature ridges along their shafts that grip the wood more effectively than smooth nails, nearly doubling the strength of the attachment. Additionally, these nails are installed in a specific pattern designed to maximize their holding power against high wind forces.

2.4. Impact-Resistant Metal Panels

While metal roofs are naturally more resistant to impact than asphalt shingles, the FORTIFIED™ Roof standard goes a step further by encouraging homeowners in hail-prone areas to opt for impact-resistant metal panels. These panels are designed to withstand the force of large hailstones (up to 2 inches in diameter), preventing dents, punctures, or other damage that could lead to leaks or roof failure.

2.5. Wind Uplift Resistance

During hurricanes and high-wind events, the pressure difference between the inside and outside of the home can create wind uplift, which can tear the roof off the house. A FORTIFIED™ metal roof undergoes rigorous testing to ensure it can withstand these forces. The roof must pass specific wind uplift resistance tests, which simulate the conditions a roof would face during a storm. This ensures that the roof stays attached, even under extreme pressure.

Chapter 3: The Installation Process of a FORTIFIED™ Metal Roof

Installing a FORTIFIED™ metal roof requires following precise guidelines to ensure the roof meets the IBHS standards. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the process.

3.1. Pre-Installation Planning and Inspection

The first step in the installation process is a thorough inspection of the home and its current roof structure. A certified FORTIFIED™ contractor will assess the condition of the existing roof and framing to determine what upgrades or reinforcements may be needed.

If the existing roof is in poor condition, it may need to be removed entirely, allowing the contractor to repair any damaged wood and make any structural upgrades necessary to support the FORTIFIED™ metal roof.

3.2. Installing the Sealed Roof Deck

Once the roof is prepped and ready, the first major step in the installation is sealing the roof deck. The contractor will apply a secondary water barrier over the entire roof deck. This barrier can be a peel-and-stick membrane or a liquid-applied sealant, which seals all the joints and gaps in the roof deck to prevent water intrusion.

3.3. Upgrading Roof Edges

Next, the roof edges are reinforced. The contractor will install a drip edge and install screws closer than normal along the perimeter of the roof. These materials create a strong edge that resists wind uplift and prevents wind-driven rain from getting under the roof covering.

3.4. Attaching the Roof Deck with Ring-Shank Nails

With the roof deck sealed, the contractor will secure it to the home’s framing using ring-shank nails or other approved fasteners. These nails are driven into the roof deck in a specific pattern that enhances the roof’s resistance to high winds. This step is crucial for ensuring the roof stays attached during severe weather events.

3.5. Installing the Metal Panels

Once the roof deck is securely fastened, the metal roofing panels can be installed. The contractor will place each panel according to the manufacturer’s specifications, ensuring that the panels overlap properly and are fastened with the correct number of screws or clips.

For impact resistance, the contractor may install thicker or specially treated metal panels designed to withstand hail and other debris impacts.

3.6. Wind Uplift Testing and Certification

After the installation is complete, the roof will need to pass a wind uplift test to ensure it meets the FORTIFIED™ standards. This test simulates the forces a roof would face during a storm, ensuring that it can withstand wind uplift without failing.

Once the roof passes the test, it will be inspected by a certified FORTIFIED™ evaluator, who will certify that the installation meets all IBHS standards. This certification is important for homeowners who want to qualify for insurance discounts or other benefits.

Chapter 4: The Benefits of a FORTIFIED™ Metal Roof

A FORTIFIED™ metal roof offers a range of benefits that go beyond standard roofing systems. Here’s an in-depth look at the advantages homeowners can expect.

4.1. Superior Protection Against Severe Weather

The primary benefit of a FORTIFIED™ metal roof is its ability to withstand extreme weather events. The combination of stronger edges, a sealed roof deck, and enhanced attachment methods provides unparalleled protection against high winds, heavy rain, hail, and even EF-2 tornadoes. In areas prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, a FORTIFIED™ metal roof can make the difference between minor damage and total roof failure.

4.2. Water Intrusion Prevention

One of the most significant risks during a storm is water intrusion. If your roof covering is damaged or blown off, water can enter your home through the roof deck, causing extensive damage to the interior. The sealed roof deck required by the FORTIFIED™ Roof system prevents this from happening, even if the metal panels are compromised.

4.3. Longer Lifespan and Durability

Metal roofs are known for their longevity, often lasting 50 years or more with proper maintenance. A FORTIFIED™ metal roof not only extends this lifespan but also ensures that the roof remains strong and durable in the face of severe weather. With enhanced fasteners, stronger edges, and impact-resistant materials, a FORTIFIED™ metal roof is less likely to need repairs or replacement after storms.

4.4. Insurance Discounts and Lower Premiums

Many insurance companies recognize the reduced risk associated with FORTIFIED™ roofs and offer discounts to homeowners who invest in this level of protection. Depending on your location and insurance provider, you may be eligible for significant savings on your homeowners’ insurance premiums by installing a FORTIFIED™ metal roof.

4.5. Increased Home Value

A FORTIFIED™ metal roof is an attractive selling point for prospective homebuyers, especially in storm-prone regions. Buyers are often willing to pay more for a home that offers superior protection against weather-related damage, knowing that it will reduce their long-term risk and maintenance costs. Installing a FORTIFIED™ metal roof can increase the value of your home and make it more appealing to potential buyers.

4.6. Energy Efficiency

Metal roofs are naturally energy-efficient, reflecting heat away from the home and reducing the amount of energy needed to cool the interior. This is especially beneficial in warm climates where air conditioning costs can be high. A FORTIFIED™ metal roof not only protects your home from storms but also helps reduce your energy bills by keeping your home cooler during the summer months.

4.7. Environmental Benefits

Metal roofing materials are often made from recycled materials and are fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan. This makes metal roofs a more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional asphalt shingles, which typically end up in landfills. By choosing a FORTIFIED™ metal roof, you’re making a sustainable choice that benefits both your home and the environment.

Chapter 5: Common Myths and Misconceptions About FORTIFIED™ Metal Roofs

Despite the clear benefits, some homeowners may hesitate to invest in a FORTIFIED™ metal roof due to misconceptions or myths about the system. Let’s address some of the most common concerns.

5.1. Myth: A FORTIFIED™ Roof is Too Expensive

While the initial cost of a FORTIFIED™ metal roof may be higher than that of a traditional roof, the long-term savings can more than offset the upfront expense. Reduced maintenance, fewer repairs, lower insurance premiums, and the extended lifespan of the roof make it a cost-effective investment over time. Additionally, the protection it offers during storms can save you thousands of dollars in potential repair costs.

5.2. Myth: FORTIFIED™ Roofs are Only Necessary in Coastal Areas

While FORTIFIED™ roofs are particularly beneficial in coastal areas prone to hurricanes, they provide valuable protection in a wide range of climates and regions. High winds, hail, and tornadoes can occur in many inland areas, and a FORTIFIED™ metal roof offers protection against all of these threats. Homeowners across the country can benefit from the added durability and peace of mind that a FORTIFIED™ roof provides.

5.3. Myth: You Can’t Retrofit an Existing Roof to Meet FORTIFIED™ Standards

It’s possible to upgrade an existing roof to meet the FORTIFIED™ Roof standards. While this may require removing the current roof covering and sealing the roof deck, it is a viable option for homeowners who want to increase their roof’s resilience without completely replacing the structure. Retrofitting can be more cost-effective than installing a new roof from scratch, while still providing the same level of protection.

Chapter 6: Finding a Certified FORTIFIED™ Roofing Contractor

Installing a FORTIFIED™ metal roof requires working with a certified contractor who understands the IBHS standards and the specific requirements for FORTIFIED™ roofs. Here’s how to find the right contractor for your project.

6.1. Certified FORTIFIED™ Contractors

Not all roofing contractors are qualified to install FORTIFIED™ roofs. It’s important to choose a contractor who has been trained and certified by the IBHS to ensure the roof is installed correctly. A certified contractor will follow the FORTIFIED™ guidelines, use the appropriate materials, and ensure the roof is properly tested and certified after installation.

6.2. Questions to Ask a Potential Contractor

Before hiring a contractor, ask the following questions to ensure they are qualified to install a FORTIFIED™ metal roof:

  • Are you certified to install FORTIFIED™ roofs?
  • Can you provide references from previous FORTIFIED™ roofing projects?
  • What is your experience with metal roof installations?
  • How long will the installation process take?
  • Will you handle the certification process after the roof is installed?

By working with a certified contractor, you can ensure that your FORTIFIED™ metal roof will meet all necessary standards and provide the maximum level of protection for your home.

Conclusion

A FORTIFIED™ metal roof is one of the most effective ways to protect your home from the devastating effects of severe weather. Combining the inherent durability of metal roofing with the advanced construction techniques required by the IBHS FORTIFIED Roof™ program, this roofing system offers unmatched resilience against high winds, hail, hurricanes, and more.

From its stronger roof edges and sealed roof deck to its enhanced fasteners and impact-resistant panels, a FORTIFIED™ metal roof provides superior protection, reduces the risk of water damage, and increases the lifespan of your roof. While the initial investment may be higher than a traditional roof, the long-term savings, insurance discounts, and peace of mind make it a wise choice for any homeowner, especially those in storm-prone areas.

If you’re ready to protect your home with a FORTIFIED™ metal roof, 50 North Roofing Company is here to help. As a licensed and certified roofing contractor, we specialize in FORTIFIED™ roofing systems that meet the highest standards of protection and durability. Contact us today to learn more about how we can fortify your home for the future.