A FORTIFIED™ Roof works by strengthening the roof system at its most vulnerable points so it can better resist wind forces and water intrusion during severe weather. Rather than relying on a single upgrade, the FORTIFIED™ Roof standard focuses on how multiple roof components work together as a system.
Each element plays a role in helping the roof remain intact and helping water stay out when extreme weather occurs.
Securing the Roof Deck
Securing the roof deck means attaching the roof sheathing to the structure in a way that better resists wind uplift.
Product requirement:
Products used at the roof deck must support enhanced attachment of the sheathing to the structure and be compatible with installation methods required under the FORTIFIED™ Roof standard.
During high winds, uplift forces can loosen fasteners and compromise the deck if it is not properly secured.
A FORTIFIED™ Roof improves performance by:
- Strengthening how the roof deck is attached to the structure
- Reducing the likelihood of deck movement during wind events
Sealing the Roof Deck
Sealing the roof deck means adding a continuous water-resistant layer over the roof sheathing to limit water entry. Products used to seal the roof deck must provide a continuous, durable water-resistant barrier capable of limiting water intrusion if the primary roof covering is damaged or lost.
When roof coverings are compromised during a storm, water can enter through seams and joints in the roof deck.
FORTIFIED™ Roof reduces this risk by:
- Sealing the roof deck to limit water intrusion
- Creating a secondary layer of protection beneath the roof covering
Reinforcing Vulnerable Roof Areas
Reinforcing vulnerable roof areas means strengthening the parts of the roof where wind and water damage most often begin.
Products used at vulnerable roof areas must support durable detailing and secure transitions at edges, penetrations, and intersections to help reduce the risk of failure during severe weather.
Certain areas of the roof are more prone to failure, including:
- Roof edges
- Transitions
- Penetrations
- Intersections and terminations
A FORTIFIED™ Roof addresses these areas by emphasizing proper detailing and reinforcement.
Verification Matters
A roof only qualifies as a FORTIFIED™ Roof when required installation methods and supporting materials are independently verified and documented through the IBHS FORTIFIED™ program.
Verification helps ensure the roof system performs as intended and meets FORTIFIED™ Roof requirements.
A System-Based Approach
A FORTIFIED™ Roof is designed and installed as a coordinated system. Each roof-level improvement supports the others, helping the roof perform more effectively during severe weather than conventional construction. These system-level improvements work together to enhance overall roof performance, while attic ventilation requirements remain governed by applicable building codes. When sealed roof decks are incorporated as part of a FORTIFIED™ Roof system, ventilation must be addressed in accordance with adopted building codes and applicable FORTIFIED program requirements.
