Severe weather events are becoming more frequent and more destructive. Whether you live along the Gulf Coast or in a storm-prone inland area, protecting your home starts with your roof. At Sunbelt Roofs, we proudly offer IBHS FORTIFIED Roof™ systems—a science-based roofing upgrade that can help your home withstand high winds, heavy rain, and hurricanes.
What Is the IBHS FORTIFIED Roof™ Program?
The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) developed the FORTIFIED Roof™ program to create a set of resilient construction standards proven to reduce roof damage during severe weather. Research shows that in most years, 70–90% of insured residential catastrophic losses are roof-related. FORTIFIED Roof standards are designed to stop damage before it starts.
Key Features of a FORTIFIED Roof™
1. Stronger Roof Edges
High winds often target the roof edges first. FORTIFIED roofs use:
- Wider drip edges
- Fully adhered starter strips
Together, these components prevent wind uplift at the roof’s edge—where damage commonly begins.
2. Sealed Roof Deck
When shingles or tiles are blown off, your home’s wood roof deck is left exposed. A FORTIFIED Roof™ uses special sealing techniques that block water from seeping in through the gaps—greatly reducing the chance of interior water damage.
3. Superior Attachment System
Unlike traditional smooth nails, FORTIFIED Roof™ standards require ring-shank nails placed in an enhanced pattern. This doubles the strength of the roof deck attachment, keeping your roof secure in extreme winds.
Why FORTIFIED Matters in Louisiana and Mississippi
Sunbelt Roofs serves communities in Louisiana and Mississippi, regions that often face hurricanes, tornadoes, and tropical storms. A FORTIFIED Roof™:
- Minimizes storm-related damage
- May qualify for insurance discounts
- Provides peace of mind knowing your home is protected by decades of research and real-world testing
The Science Behind It
The IBHS Research Center replicates real-world storm conditions—from Category 3 hurricane winds to wind-driven rain. By recreating damage events and testing solutions, IBHS identifies:
- Construction weak points
- Affordable upgrades that have a high impact
- Proven methods that significantly reduce storm damage
All of this testing informs the FORTIFIED standards that Sunbelt Roofs uses to install stronger, smarter roofing systems.
Get FORTIFIED with Sunbelt Roofs
As a certified installer, Sunbelt Roofs helps homeowners across Louisiana and Mississippi upgrade to a FORTIFIED Roof™. Whether you’re building a new home or replacing a storm-damaged roof, ask us about integrating this high-performance roofing system.
Contact Us Today
985-805-6921 (Louisiana) | 228-222-5255 (Mississippi)
Protect your home with the power of science and the experience of Sunbelt Roofs.
Conclusion: Don’t Just Replace—FORTIFY
When severe weather strikes, your roof is your first line of defense. A FORTIFIED Roof™ by Sunbelt Roofs ensures that your home is built stronger, lasts longer, and protects better. With scientifically proven upgrades, you’re not just replacing a roof—you’re future-proofing your home.