Certified FORTIFIED™ Roof Installation in Louisiana & Mississippi
When it comes to protecting your home from hurricanes, high winds, and hailstorms in Louisiana and Mississippi, a standard roof simply isn’t enough. That’s why more Gulf Coast homeowners are turning to the FORTIFIED™ Roof system — an IBHS-certified, hurricane-resistant roofing upgrade that delivers long-term resilience, insurance discounts, and even state grant funding.
At Southern Home Improvement Center (SHIC), we’re not just another roofer — we’re a certified FORTIFIED™ roof installer and an approved contractor under the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program. Whether you’re upgrading proactively or rebuilding after a storm, we provide complete support: from free consultations and Evaluator coordination to verified installation and final certification.
Backed by almost 35 years of regional expertise, we install FORTIFIED™ roofs across Slidell, Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Gulfport, and beyond — helping homeowners stay protected, compliant, and prepared for whatever the Gulf Coast weather brings.
What Is a FORTIFIED™ Roof?
A FORTIFIED™ Roof is more than just shingles — it’s a complete, scientifically tested roofing system designed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) to withstand the Gulf Coast’s most extreme weather. Unlike standard roofing that meets only the minimum building codes, a FORTIFIED™ Roof goes further — protecting your home from hurricane-force winds, wind-driven rain, and hail impacts.
Each certified installation follows strict IBHS guidelines and includes:
- Sealed roof deck. Prevents water from entering your attic even if shingles are blown off during a storm.
- Reinforced edges. Wider drip edges and advanced starter strips protect vulnerable roof borders from wind uplift.
- Stronger attachment system. Ring-shank nails and precise nailing patterns help keep the decking attached to your structure during extreme gusts.
- Impact-resistant shingles. Defend against hail and flying debris, reducing the risk of surface damage and long-term leaks.
- Certified continuous load path. Ensures your roof remains anchored to your home — even under severe pressure.
Every project is independently verified by an IBHS-certified Evaluator, and your FORTIFIED™ Roof Certification is valid for 5 years, with renewal options.
BOOK YOUR FREE ESTIMATE
Certified FORTIFIED™ installations, hurricane-rated materials,
backed by lifetime workmanship warranty.
Only 3 appointment slots left this week • BBB A+ Rated • 120+ 5-Star Reviews
Grant Funding Through the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program
Homeowners in Louisiana can access up to $10,000 in state funding to install a certified FORTIFIED™ Roof through the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program (LFHP) — an initiative of the Louisiana Department of Insurance. This program helps residents strengthen their homes before the next hurricane hits, reducing both risk and long-term recovery costs.
At Southern Home Improvement, we’re not just certified to install FORTIFIED™ roofs — we’re also an LFHP-approved contractor, which means we guide you through the entire grant process step-by-step from start to finish.
Here’s how the grant program works:
- Apply with LDI. Submit your application during an open enrollment window — see our guide: louisiana fortify homes grant — step-by-step.
- Choose a Certified Contractor. You must select from an approved list — we’re already on it.
- Schedule a Pre-Installation Evaluation. We help coordinate an on-site assessment with a licensed IBHS Evaluator, who ensures your home qualifies. Details here: pre- & post-installation evaluations.
- Install Your FORTIFIED™ Roof. Our licensed crews complete the work according to IBHS specifications and program requirements — see the overview: certified FORTIFIED™ installation.
- Get Reimbursed. Once your roof passes final inspection, the grant funds are paid directly to us by the state — more in our guide: FORTIFIED™ roof grant program.
Who qualifies for the LFHP grant?
- You own and live in a single-family home in Louisiana
- Your roof is eligible for full replacement
- You have an active homeowner’s insurance policy for wind & hail
- You apply during an active grant window and a few more requirements.
Even if you miss the funding cycle or don’t qualify, installing a FORTIFIED™ roof still brings valuable benefits — lower insurance premiums, stronger protection, and peace of mind.
And don’t worry — we’ll handle the paperwork, evaluator coordination, and documentation, so your grant process is smooth from day one.
Step-by-Step FORTIFIED™ Roof Installation & Certification
Upgrading to a FORTIFIED™ Roof isn’t just about stronger materials — it’s about following a proven process with strict verification at every stage. As a certified IBHS FORTIFIED™ Roofing Contractor, Southern Home Improvement handles everything from inspection to certification, ensuring your roof meets all standards and, if applicable, qualifies for the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program.
1. Initial Roof Inspection & Evaluator Coordination
We assess your current roof to determine whether it qualifies for full replacement and FORTIFIED™ installation. If you’re applying for a grant, we’ll coordinate the required pre-inspection with an independent IBHS Evaluator approved by the program. Start with a visit: complimentary roof inspection — Slidell.
2. Material Selection & Project Planning
Choose your preferred Class 3 or Class 4 impact-resistant shingles and other approved components. We manage permits, timelines, materials, and scheduling — your only job is picking the color and moving your cars out of the driveway. See how we plan projects here: roof replacement & installation hub.
3. Sealed Deck Installation
We remove all existing roofing down to the decking, then install a self-adhering membrane or equivalent system to seal the roof deck after re-nailing the entire decking with framing ring shank nails. This layer helps prevent water intrusion — even if shingles blow off in a storm.
4. Edge Protection & Fastening Upgrades
We enhance wind resistance by adding wider and heavier gauge metal drip edges, reinforced starter strips, and installing ring-shank nails in a tighter, storm-rated pattern. These steps reduce the risk of the roof pulling away during hurricane-force winds.
5. Shingle Installation & Final Evaluation
Your new roof is installed according to IBHS FORTIFIED™ standards. After completion, the Evaluator returns to verify compliance and submit documentation for official certification. Learn more about the final steps: certification & submission.
6. Certification & Grant Reimbursement
If you’re enrolled in the LFHP, we help finalize your application, submit proof of completion, and ensure we receive state’s grant reimbursement. The FORTIFIED™ certification is valid for five years and can be renewed with a follow-up evaluation.
BOOK YOUR FREE ESTIMATE
Certified FORTIFIED™ installations, hurricane-rated materials,
backed by lifetime workmanship warranty.
Only 3 appointment slots left this week • BBB A+ Rated • 120+ 5-Star Reviews
Why Choose a Certified FORTIFIED™ Roofing Contractor?
Not every roofer is qualified to install a FORTIFIED™ Roof. This system requires exacting standards, verified by trained professionals. Choosing the wrong contractor could cost you your certification, your grant, or worse — your roof’s performance in the next hurricane.
At Southern Home Improvement Center, we are fully certified by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) and approved under the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program (LFHP). Here’s why homeowners across Louisiana and Mississippi trust us for hurricane-resistant roofing:
Official LFHP Contractor
We are an approved contractor listed by the Louisiana Department of Insurance. We’ve guided hundreds of homeowners through the grant process — from registration to final reimbursement. Details: FORTIFIED™ roof grant program.
Seamless Coordination with Certified Evaluators
We work directly with IBHS-approved Evaluators to ensure your roof passes both the pre-installation and final inspections required for certification. Process overview: LFHP step-by-step.
Deep Gulf Coast Expertise
With almost 35 years of roofing experience in Southeast Louisiana and the Mississippi Gulf Coast, our team understands local codes, hurricane threats, and what it takes to build storm-resistant homes. See recent work: roof replacement in Slidell, LA.
Full Warranty Coverage
We offer 5-year workmanship warranties and install only manufacturer-approved, warranty-backed materials. Your roof is protected — on paper and in practice.
Frequently Asked Questions – FORTIFIED™ Roofing in Louisiana & Mississippi
Still weighing your options? Below are the most common questions homeowners in hurricane-prone regions ask before upgrading to a FORTIFIED™ Roof.
What’s the difference between a standard roof and a FORTIFIED™ Roof?
A standard roof meets local building code. A FORTIFIED™ Roof exceeds it — with sealed decking, stronger edge protection, reinforced fasteners, and impact-resistant shingles. It’s designed to withstand high winds, hail, and wind-driven rain during hurricanes and tropical storms. More background: FORTIFIED™ system details.
Am I eligible for the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program grant?
To qualify, you must:
- Own and live in the home
- Carry homeowners insurance
- Be located in Louisiana
- Have a roof eligible for full replacement etc.
Grants are awarded on a lottery basis after the application period ends. We’ll help you navigate the process through the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program.
Do I have to use a certified contractor?
Yes. Only a certified IBHS FORTIFIED™ Roofing Contractor can install and certify a qualifying roof. Using a non-certified contractor disqualifies them from receiving grant funds or official certification.
Will a FORTIFIED™ Roof lower my insurance premiums?
In many cases, yes. Several insurance companies in Louisiana and Mississippi offer premium discounts for homes with certified FORTIFIED™ Roofs. Check typical savings and eligibility here: insurance discounts & LFHP info.
How long does certification last?
FORTIFIED™ Roof Certification is valid for 5 years. After that, you can schedule a renewal inspection to maintain certification and continue receiving insurance discounts.
Can I upgrade without the grant?
Absolutely. Many homeowners choose to install a FORTIFIED™ Roof even without state funding. The added protection and potential insurance savings often make the upgrade worthwhile.
Get a Free FORTIFIED™ Roof Estimate Today
A certified FORTIFIED™ Roof protects your home from hurricane winds, reduces storm damage, and may qualify you for state grants and insurance discounts.
We handle everything — from grant applications and Evaluator coordination to final certification and installation. You’ll get a wind-rated roof built to IBHS standards, backed by warranties and 5-year workmanship protection.
Call (985) 643-6611 or click below to schedule your free consultation.
