Your Guide to FORTIFIED Roofs on the Gulf Coast
Along the Gulf Coast, wind and wind-driven rain are a fact of life. If you own a home in Louisiana or Mississippi, upgrading to a FORTIFIED roof can reduce storm damage, limit water intrusion, and help your home bounce back faster after severe weather. This guide explains what a FORTIFIED roof includes, how it differs from code-minimum installs, when it makes sense to upgrade, and what to ask your contractor.
What a FORTIFIED Roof Includes
- Sealed roof deck to block rain if shingles or panels are lost.
- Enhanced fasteners such as ring-shank nails in a tighter pattern to keep the deck attached.
- Stronger edges and vents designed to resist uplift and wind-driven rain at the most vulnerable points.
These components work together as a system, improving both structural attachment and water management during storms.
How It Differs from “Just to Code”
Building code sets a baseline. FORTIFIED adds specific details — sealed deck seams, upgraded nailing schedules, reinforced edges, and vent improvements — that are not always required by code but are critical during high-wind events.
Who Benefits in Louisiana & Mississippi
Homes near Lake Pontchartrain, the Mississippi Coast, barrier islands, and open exposures see the biggest gains. Inland homes also benefit, especially where downpours and squall lines push water under shingles or through weak edge details.
When to Consider Upgrading
- You’re already planning a reroof (best time to add sealed deck and fastener upgrades).
- You’ve had wind-driven leaks at eaves, valleys, or roof penetrations.
- Your home faces open water or long fetch winds, or sits taller than neighboring structures.
- You want to pursue potential mitigation discounts that may be available from insurers or programs in your area.
Design Pressure & Wind Speeds—What They Really Mean
Ratings and design speeds are engineering targets, not guarantees for every storm. Real-world performance depends on correct installation, site exposure, and ongoing maintenance.
Our FORTIFIED Reroof Process
- Assessment & photos of the deck, ventilation, edge metal, and penetrations.
- Written scope detailing sealed-deck method, fastener schedule, edge/vent upgrades, and materials.
- Installation with ring-shank nails, sealed seams, improved edges, and rated vents.
- Documentation with photo sets and specifications for your records (and your evaluator if you pursue designation).
How to Compare Contractors (Checklist)
- Sealed-deck method specified (membrane type or tape, coverage, and locations).
- Nail type and schedule (ring-shank, size, spacing) spelled out on the proposal.
- Edge metal and vent products listed by model, including wind-driven rain performance.
- Underlayment type (synthetic, high-temp where needed) and where it will be used.
- Material and workmanship warranties stated in writing.
Maintenance After You Upgrade
Schedule periodic inspections, clear debris from valleys and gutters, and keep soffit and ridge vents unobstructed. Quick attention to small issues keeps the system performing at its best.
FAQ
Is FORTIFIED only for new construction?
No. Most upgrades happen during reroofs. If your deck is sound, a contractor can apply sealed-deck methods and enhanced attachments as part of a replacement.
Will I automatically get an insurance discount?
Discounts and requirements vary by insurer and program. Many carriers ask for third-party evaluation and a FORTIFIED certificate before applying credits.
Can I use shingles or metal on a FORTIFIED roof?
Yes. Either can qualify when properly rated and installed with sealed deck, upgraded fasteners, and compliant edge and vent details.
Does a FORTIFIED roof stop all leaks?
No roof is “leak-proof,” but the sealed deck and edge/vent improvements significantly reduce common water entry paths during wind-driven rain.
Contact Southern Home Improvement Center today at (985) 643-6611 to learn more about our Fortified Roofing services and how we can help to protect your home and save you money in the long run.
