Alabama homeowners frequently face extreme weather conditions, including hurricanes, tornadoes, and heavy storms. Ensuring a home’s roof can withstand these elements is crucial for safety and long-term property protection. The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) developed the FORTIFIED Roof™ program to help homeowners upgrade their roofing systems to withstand severe weather.
This guide will explain what IBHS FORTIFIED Roofs are, why they are essential for Alabama homes, and how they comply with state and local building regulations.
What is the IBHS FORTIFIED Roof™ Program?
The IBHS FORTIFIED Roof™ program is a nationally recognized certification system designed to strengthen homes against natural disasters. It provides a set of construction and retrofitting guidelines that exceed traditional building codes to help homes better resist high winds, heavy rain, and flying debris.
FORTIFIED Roof™ Levels
IBHS offers three levels of FORTIFIED certification:
- FORTIFIED Roof™: Focuses on strengthening only the roofing system.
- FORTIFIED Silver™: Enhances the entire home’s structural system, including walls, doors, and windows.
- FORTIFIED Gold™: The most comprehensive level, reinforcing both structural and non-structural components.
For most Alabama homeowners, FORTIFIED Roof™ certification is the primary focus, as it provides significant storm protection at an affordable cost.
Why FORTIFIED Roofs Matter in Alabama
Severe Weather Protection
Alabama ranks among the top states for severe weather events, including hurricanes, tornadoes, and straight-line winds. The IBHS FORTIFIED Roof™ system is designed to withstand winds up to 130 mph, reducing the likelihood of damage during a storm. Research conducted at the IBHS Research Center has demonstrated that homes built to FORTIFIED standards are more resilient against such extreme weather conditions.
Insurance Discounts & Financial Benefits
Many insurance providers, including those regulated by the Alabama Department of Insurance, offer premium discounts for homes with IBHS FORTIFIED certification. Homeowners may also qualify for state grants and financial incentives to help cover the cost of upgrades. The Strengthen Alabama Homes program, for instance, provides grants up to $10,000 to homeowners upgrading to FORTIFIED standards.
Increased Home Value
A FORTIFIED Roof™ can add value to your home by making it more resilient and energy-efficient. Homebuyers in Alabama are becoming more aware of storm risks, making properties with IBHS-certified roofs more attractive in the real estate market. Studies have shown that homes with FORTIFIED designations can see an increase in resale value by up to 7%.
Key Features of a FORTIFIED Roof™
- Enhanced Roof Deck Attachment: The roof deck is secured using ring-shank nails instead of standard nails, increasing its wind resistance by up to 200%.
- Sealed Roof Deck: A waterproof underlayment or tape is applied over the roof deck to prevent water intrusion in case shingles are lost during a storm.
- Impact-Resistant Roofing Materials: FORTIFIED Roofs™ require high-quality asphalt shingles or metal roofing systems that meet specific wind and impact resistance ratings.
- Reinforced Edge Protection: A metal drip edge is installed along the perimeter to prevent strong winds from lifting shingles and exposing the roof deck.
Meeting Alabama Building Codes with IBHS Standards
The Alabama Building Code incorporates many of the requirements outlined by IBHS, particularly in high-wind zones like the Gulf Coast. Homeowners in Newton, Alabama, must ensure their roofing projects comply with local permit requirements and inspections conducted by certified professionals.
The City of Fairhope, for example, mandates that all new constructions meet FORTIFIED Gold standards, excluding the required third-party inspections by an IBHS FORTIFIED Evaluator.
How to Get a FORTIFIED Roof™ in Newton, AL
- Hire a FORTIFIED Evaluator: Certified evaluators assess your current roof and recommend necessary upgrades.
- Choose a Certified Roofing Contractor: Work with a licensed contractor to install a FORTIFIED Roof™.
- Schedule an Inspection: An IBHS-approved evaluator inspects the work to confirm compliance with FORTIFIED standards.
- Receive Certification: Once approved, your home is officially recognized as FORTIFIED, allowing you to qualify for insurance discounts and incentives.
How South Alabama Construction Can Help You
Investing in an IBHS FORTIFIED Roof™ is one of the best ways to protect your Alabama home from severe weather. If you’re considering upgrading your roof, consult with a certified FORTIFIED professional to guide you through the process, ensuring compliance with IBHS and Alabama building codes.
For a free consultation, contact us today!