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The FORTIFIED Factor

Knockout Inspections

An AI assisted podcast discussing all things resilient, reliable and severe-weather ready as it pertains to one of of your most important investments: YOUR HOME! This is a work product of Knockout Inspections. Our company has a team of in-house FORTIFIED Evaluators ready to answer any and all of your questions. Give us a call at 855-GO-FOR-KO, or visit fortifiedhome.com.

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#82
Friday · 21 min
Attic and Gable End Vent Covers
When severe weather strikes, could your attic vents be putting your entire home at risk? In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, our AI Experts, informed by the experienced FORTIFIED Evaluators at Knockout Inspections, explore an often-overlooked component of storm-ready homes: attic and gable end vent coverings. While attic ventilation is essential for maintaining a healthy home, these openings can become vulnerable entry points for wind-driven rain during hurricanes and severe storms. Without proper protection, water intrusion can lead to costly damage to insulation, ceilings, walls, and personal belongings. We'll discuss why protecting attic and gable end vents matters, how vent coverings relate to the IBHS FORTIFIED Home™ standard, and what homeowners should understand about potential insurance implications, including FORTIFIED-related discounts and eligibility requirements. Whether you're building a new home, upgrading your existing property, or pursuing a FORTIFIED designation, understanding these small but important details can make a big difference in your home's resilience. Have questions about FORTIFIED requirements or protecting your home? The in-house FORTIFIED Evaluators at Knockout Inspections are ready to help! 📞 Call 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) 🌐 Visit fortifiedhome.com
#81
October 2 · 22 min
Asphalt Shingles - 15 Year Redesignation Eligibility
A major change is coming to FORTIFIED Home™ re-designations—and if your home has asphalt shingles, you need to understand what it means. In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, our AI Experts, informed by Knockout Inspections, break down IBHS Technical Bulletin FH 2026-03 and the new re-designation eligibility requirements for homes with asphalt shingle roof systems. Under the new requirements, a FORTIFIED Home with asphalt shingles can generally remain eligible for designation for up to 15 years from the applicable starting point. Because FORTIFIED designations are generally renewed every five years, that effectively limits a qualifying asphalt-shingle roof to the initial designation plus two five-year re-designations before roof replacement is needed to restart eligibility. For an existing roof with a known installation date, however, the 15-year period is measured from the documented roof installation date, not necessarily the initial FORTIFIED designation date. If the installation date is unknown, the home is eligible for a single initial designation term of up to five years and cannot be re-designated until the asphalt shingle roof covering is replaced. We also explain when the new rule takes effect, how it applies to FORTIFIED Roof™, Silver and Gold properties, what happens when an existing designation extends beyond the new eligibility limit, and how replacing an asphalt shingle roof can begin a new eligibility period. One distinction is especially important: the new 15-year limit is a FORTIFIED re-designation eligibility requirement. It does not establish the service life of asphalt shingles or automatically mean a 15-year-old roof needs replacement for other purposes. If you own a FORTIFIED home, are planning to build or re-roof one, or work in roofing, insurance, real estate, construction, or home inspections, this is an episode you’ll want to hear. Have questions about how the new requirements may apply to your home? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com.
#80
September 25 · 9 min
The Journey to 100,000 FORTIFIED Designations
What does it take for a resilient construction standard to grow from a regional initiative into a movement with 100,000 designations nationwide? In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, our AI Experts, informed by Knockout Inspections, trace the remarkable rise of the FORTIFIED program—from roughly 100 designations in 2011 to surpassing 100,000 cumulative designations in May 2026. We break down the journey in three distinct phases: the early slow burn, the years of accelerating adoption, and the explosive growth that followed. Along the way, we explore how grant programs, insurance incentives, increased contractor participation, and growing awareness helped create the momentum behind FORTIFIED’s rapid expansion. You’ll also hear why the 100,000 milestone tells only part of the story. FORTIFIED designations expire after five years unless renewed, raising an important question for the years ahead: Can the incredible growth in new designations translate into equally strong long-term renewal and continued resilience? Whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, insurance professional, real estate professional, or simply interested in building homes that are better prepared for severe weather, this episode provides a fascinating look at how FORTIFIED went from a relatively small coastal initiative to a rapidly expanding approach to resilient construction. Have questions about FORTIFIED or want to learn what it could mean for your home? Contact the in-house FORTIFIED Evaluators at Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com.
#79
September 18 · 19 min
Supplemental Insurance Benefits of FORTIFIED Roofs
A FORTIFIED Roof is designed to help protect your home against severe weather—but could it also provide benefits when it comes to your homeowners insurance? In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, our AI Experts, informed by Knockout Inspections, explore the supplemental insurance benefits that may be available to homeowners with a FORTIFIED Roof. We discuss how FORTIFIED designation can factor into insurance considerations, why documentation and certification matter, and what homeowners should know when talking with their insurance provider about potential discounts, credits, or other benefits. Whether you already have a FORTIFIED Roof or you're considering upgrading your home, this episode will help you better understand how investing in resilience may have benefits beyond improved protection from severe weather. Insurance benefits, eligibility, and discounts can vary by insurer, policy, location, and designation. Homeowners should confirm available benefits directly with their insurance provider. Have questions about FORTIFIED? The in-house FORTIFIED Evaluators at Knockout Inspections are ready to help. Call 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com.
#78
September 11 · 19 min
FORTIFIED Provider Requirements
What does it really take to become a certified FORTIFIED service provider—and what does it take to keep that certification? In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, our AI Experts, informed by Knockout Inspections, break down the requirements for FORTIFIED Evaluators, Roofing Contractors, and Professionals working within the FORTIFIED program. We walk through the certification journey, from submitting a provider application and documenting eligibility requirements to completing role-specific training and passing the certification exam. We also discuss what happens after certification, including Provider IDs, technical resources, FOCUS for Evaluators, ongoing credential management, and the requirement to renew training and testing every three years. You’ll also learn about ProfileGorilla’s role in maintaining the FORTIFIED Provider Directory and tracking the credentials providers need to remain current. Whether you’re considering becoming a FORTIFIED Evaluator, roofer, or design professional—or you’re a homeowner wondering what “FORTIFIED certified” actually means—this episode provides a helpful look behind the certification. 🎧 Listen now to “FORTIFIED Provider Requirements” on The FORTIFIED Factor. Have questions about FORTIFIED, the evaluation process, or your home? The in-house FORTIFIED Evaluators at Knockout Inspections are ready to help. 📞 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) 🌐 fortifiedhome.com The FORTIFIED Factor is an AI-assisted and AI-hosted podcast from Knockout Inspections covering resilient, reliable, and severe-weather-ready homes.
#77
September 4 · 19 min
FORTIFIED Standards for Coastal Corrosion Protection
Living near the coast comes with incredible views—but salt, moisture, and coastal air can be tough on the metal components holding a home together. In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, our AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) break down the 2025 FORTIFIED Home Standard requirements for corrosion protection of fasteners and connectors in coastal regions and explain why seemingly small pieces of hardware can play an important role in a home's long-term resilience. The 2025 Standard requires installed hardware to comply with the FORTIFIED Fastener and Connector Corrosion Protection Requirements in Standard Detail F-G-1. The requirements vary based on the type of connection, its exposure, and its distance from a saltwater shoreline. The Standard also makes an important distinction between what is required for a FORTIFIED designation and what is considered a best practice. We'll discuss the coastal exposure zones, corrosion-resistance categories, and why roof connections and exterior exposed connections deserve particular attention. We'll also look at documentation—because achieving a FORTIFIED designation isn't simply about using the right product. The 2025 Standard requires adequate, site-specific documentation to demonstrate that FORTIFIED requirements were followed, and that appropriately rated products were selected and properly installed. And corrosion doesn't stop mattering once a designation is earned. Earlier FORTIFIED guidance emphasizes inspecting visible connections during re-designation and addressing corroded connections when found. The 2025 Standard similarly states that when corrosion is observed in the connections covered by its corrosion-protection table at re-designation, the designation may not be renewed. Whether you're a coastal homeowner, builder, roofer, or preparing for a FORTIFIED evaluation, this episode helps explain why coastal corrosion protection matters and how FORTIFIED addresses it. Have questions about FORTIFIED requirements or your home? Knockout Inspections has a team of in-house FORTIFIED Evaluators ready to help. Call 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com.
#76
August 28 · 22 min
Defining Design Pressure & the Ratings for Openings
What does a Design Pressure (DP) rating actually tell you—and how do you know whether a window, door, garage door, or other opening is rated appropriately for a FORTIFIED Home™? In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, our AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) break down one of the more technical—but incredibly important—concepts in resilient construction: required design pressure versus a product’s design pressure rating. Required design pressure represents the wind pressure a component of the home must be capable of resisting. That pressure isn't necessarily the same everywhere on a structure. Factors such as design wind speed, exposure category, building height, location on the building, and other site and building characteristics can affect the pressures a component must withstand. A DP rating, on the other hand, represents the pressure a particular product or system has been tested and rated to resist. The key is matching the two: the product's documented capacity must meet or exceed the pressure required at its specific location on the home. We'll discuss why simply seeing a DP number on a product isn't enough, why documentation and tested assemblies matter, and how installation can ultimately determine whether a rated system performs as intended. The same principle highlighted in FORTIFIED guidance for roof coverings is essential to understanding design pressures throughout a resilient home: determine the required pressure, verify the tested rating, and install the system according to its approved requirements. Whether you're a homeowner trying to understand FORTIFIED requirements, a contractor selecting products, or an industry professional working toward a FORTIFIED designation, this episode will help make the numbers behind wind resistance easier to understand. Have questions about design pressures, opening protection, or the FORTIFIED Home™ program? Contact the team of in-house FORTIFIED Evaluators at Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com.
#75
August 21 · 22 min
Roof Qualifications and Definitions
What exactly makes a roof eligible for a FORTIFIED designation—and when you’re replacing a roof, which roof areas actually have to be included? In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, our AI Experts, informed by Knockout Inspections, break down Sections 2.5 and 2.6 of the 2025 FORTIFIED Home Standard, covering Qualifying Roof Structural Members and the Definition of Roof Areas for FORTIFIED Roof Designations. We’ll explore the requirements for wood-framed roof structures, including trusses and rafters, framing dimensions and spacing, roof sheathing, engineering considerations, wind-load design, and collar ties. We’ll also explain what happens when a roof’s construction falls outside the Standard’s typical parameters and when professional engineering documentation may be necessary. Then we tackle an important question for FORTIFIED New Roof projects: Which parts of the roof have to be replaced? From the main roof and attached garages to balconies, decks, bay windows, bump-outs, awnings, and other architectural features, understanding what is—and isn't—within the scope of a FORTIFIED roof can make a major difference when planning a reroofing project. Whether you're a homeowner considering a FORTIFIED Roof, a roofing contractor working on FORTIFIED projects, or simply interested in building a more resilient home, this episode helps make the technical language of the 2025 FORTIFIED Home Standard easier to understand. Have questions about your roof or FORTIFIED eligibility? Contact the in-house FORTIFIED Evaluators at Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com.
#74
August 14 · 20 min
Qualifying Dwellings and Foundations
What’s underneath your home can determine whether it’s eligible for a FORTIFIED designation. In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, our AI Experts, informed by Knockout Inspections, break down qualifying dwellings and foundation requirements under the 2025 FORTIFIED Home Standard. We explore which homes and foundation types can qualify, what can make a foundation ineligible, and why the requirements can differ depending on the FORTIFIED designation being pursued. Learn how slab-on-grade, stem wall, pier and piling foundations fit into FORTIFIED eligibility, why unrestrained dry-stack masonry or stone is a problem, and how an engineered retrofit may provide a path forward for an otherwise ineligible foundation. We also explain the important role of positive anchorage and how those requirements change between FORTIFIED Roof, Silver, and Gold. Plus, we cover special eligibility considerations for HUD-code manufactured homes under the 2025 Standard and why photographs and documentation from a Certified FORTIFIED Evaluator are so important. Whether you're a homeowner, contractor, roofing professional, insurance professional, or simply want to better understand what makes a home resilient and severe-weather ready, this episode helps explain why a FORTIFIED home starts from the ground up. Have questions about your home's eligibility or foundation? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com.
#73
May 22 · 25 min
Checklist Review Part 2: Silver & Gold
In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, the AI Experts informed by Knockout Inspections continue their deep dive into the FORTIFIED documentation checklists by breaking down the final steps required for FORTIFIED Silver and FORTIFIED Gold designations. Using the final three pages of the official checklist documentation, this episode explains what homeowners, contractors, and evaluators need to know about impact protection, garage doors, soffits, attached structures, continuous load paths, and the critical engineering requirements that separate Silver and Gold homes from the rest. Listeners will learn: What upgrades are required beyond a FORTIFIED Roof Why garage doors and gable end bracing matter during hurricanes How attached structures like porches and carports can affect designation eligibility The importance of continuous load path connections in FORTIFIED Gold homes Common disqualifiers that can prevent a home from earning Silver or Gold How proper documentation and compliance forms are essential to certification This episode simplifies some of the most technical sections of the FORTIFIED standard and helps homeowners better understand how resilient construction techniques can reduce storm damage and strengthen long-term home performance. Whether you're pursuing a FORTIFIED designation, preparing for a reroof project, or simply want to make your home more severe-weather ready, this episode provides practical insight into what it really takes to build resilience from the roof all the way down to the foundation. Have questions about your home or the FORTIFIED program? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com to learn more.
#72
May 15 · 20 min
Checklist Review Part 1: Roof
In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, the AI Experts informed by Knockout Inspections break down the first section of the 2025 FORTIFIED Home™ Re-Roofing Checklist: the roof itself. From roof deck attachment and underlayment options to flashing, drip edge installation, and high-wind shingle requirements, this episode walks homeowners and contractors through the critical components that help create a stronger, more resilient roof system. Whether you’re planning a roof replacement, researching insurance discounts, or simply wanting to better protect your home from severe weather, this episode provides a practical overview of what it takes to meet the FORTIFIED Roof standard. The discussion also highlights the importance of working with a certified FORTIFIED Evaluator and understanding how proper installation details can dramatically improve roof performance during hurricanes and severe storms. Topics covered include: Roof deck nailing requirements Sealed roof deck options Drip edge and flashing installation High-wind asphalt shingle standards Hail-resistant roofing considerations Vent and accessory requirements Why documentation matters for certification This episode references the IBHS 2025 FORTIFIED Home™ Re-Roofing Checklist. Have questions about your roof or the FORTIFIED program? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com to learn more.
#71
May 1 · 22 min
Flashing Guidelines for Steep-Sloped Roofs
In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, the AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) break down flashing guidelines for steep-sloped roofs—one of the most critical (and often overlooked) components of a resilient roofing system. Flashing plays a vital role in protecting your home from water intrusion at vulnerable like roof edges, valleys, penetrations, and wall intersections. When installed correctly, it helps prevent moisture from entering the roof system and causing costly damage. We explore key best practices from FORTIFIED standards, including: Why corrosion-resistant metal flashing is essential for long-term durability Proper fastener spacing (typically 6” on center, or tighter in hurricane-prone areas) How to correctly install base flashing and counter-flashing for maximum water-shedding performance The importance of sealing, overlaps, and integration with underlayment systems Real-world application insights from detailed FORTIFIED roof deck designs, including flashing tape at seams and proper layering techniques Whether you're a homeowner, contractor, or simply looking to better understand how to protect your home from severe weather, this episode delivers practical, standards-backed guidance you can trust. 📞 Have questions about your roof or FORTIFIED standards? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com to learn more.
#70
April 24 · 19 min
The 2025 Roof Repair Checklist
When your FORTIFIED roof is damaged, the repair process isn’t just about fixing shingles—it’s about protecting your designation and your home’s future performance. In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) break down the 2025 FORTIFIED Roof Repair Checklist and what’s changed, what matters most, and what homeowners need to get right the first time. Based on the official checklist , we walk through the critical steps required to stay compliant—from documenting the full scope of damage with site-specific photos to verifying structural integrity, roof deck thickness, and proper attachment methods. You’ll learn why sealed roof deck (SRD) repairs, drip edge replacement, and flashing details are essential to maintaining your home’s storm resistance. We also highlight: Why documentation with geolocation and clarity is mandatory (not optional) When a FORTIFIED Evaluator or engineer must be involved Key requirements for roof coverings, vents, and impact-rated materials Special considerations for hail, hurricane, and solar (PV) systems The importance of the final signed Confirmation of Completion for IBHS approval The biggest takeaway? Even small repairs must follow strict standards—or you risk losing your FORTIFIED status. If you want your home to remain resilient against hurricanes, hail, and high winds, this episode gives you the step-by-step insight you need to navigate repairs with confidence. 📞 Have questions about your roof or repairs? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com to connect with a team of certified FORTIFIED Evaluators.
#69
April 17 · 21 min
Supplemental Spray Foam Attachment Requirements
In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, the AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) break down one of the most practical and often misunderstood upgrades in the FORTIFIED Roof™ standard: supplemental spray foam deck attachment. Using guidance from the latest FORTIFIED Engineering Standard (FH 2015-04), we explore how two-part closed-cell spray polyurethane foam adhesive can strengthen your roof from the inside out—without needing a full roof replacement. You’ll learn: How spray foam can simultaneously seal your roof deck AND improve uplift resistance When this method is appropriate (and when it’s not) The minimum uplift pressure requirements (110 psf and beyond) for compliance Why proper installation and documentation are critical for FORTIFIED certification Common attic access challenges that could impact eligibility This episode is a must-listen for homeowners, inspectors, and contractors looking to enhance roof performance—especially in hurricane- and high-wind-prone areas—without tearing off existing roofing materials. If you’ve ever wondered how to upgrade your home’s resilience from the attic, this episode gives you the clarity you need. 📞 Have questions about your home or a FORTIFIED upgrade? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com to connect with a certified FORTIFIED Evaluator today.
#68
April 10 · 21 min
Wood Shake and Shingle Sealed Roof Deck Options
In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, our AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) break down everything homeowners need to know about sealed roof deck (SRD) options for wood shake and shingle roofs—a critical component for protecting your home against severe weather. Using guidance from the official FORTIFIED Engineering Standards Technical Bulletin , we explore the two approved SRD installation methods that help prevent water intrusion if your roof covering is compromised: ✔️ Seam tape with a single layer of organic felt ✔️ Two-ply organic felt installation You’ll learn how these systems work, why proper sealing at the roof deck level matters, and how choosing the right method can significantly improve your home’s resilience during hurricanes, high winds, and hail events. We also highlight key installation requirements—like proper fastening patterns, material standards (ASTM D226, ASTM D4869), and best practices from the Cedar Shake and Shingle Bureau—to ensure your roof meets FORTIFIED standards. If you have a wood shake or shingle roof (or are considering one), this episode will help you make informed, weather-ready decisions that protect your biggest investment. 📞 Have questions or want to learn more about upgrading to a FORTIFIED roof? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com.
#67
March 27 · 19 min
Tape Types for Sealed Roof Deck Systems
In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) break down one of the most important—but often overlooked—components of a FORTIFIED™ Roof system: the tape used to seal roof deck seams. Not all tapes are created equal. Choosing the right material can mean the difference between a home that withstands wind-driven rain—and one that suffers costly water intrusion. Drawing from official FORTIFIED engineering guidance and IBHS resources, this episode covers: The two approved tape standards for sealed roof decks: ASTM D1970 (modified bitumen) AAMA 711-13 Level 3 (flexible flashing tapes) Why proper adhesion (no wrinkles, no voids) is critical to performance How OSB roof decking can impact tape adhesion—and when primers are required The three main tape types homeowners and contractors should understand: Modified Bitumen Butyl Acrylic Key differences in temperature performance, flexibility, and durability Installation best practices to ensure your sealed roof deck actually performs during a storm You’ll also learn why pressure-sensitive adhesives depend on proper installation conditions—and how small mistakes can compromise your entire roofing system. If you’re considering a roof replacement, FORTIFIED upgrade, or just want to better protect your home, this episode gives you the clarity you need to make informed decisions. 📞 Have questions about your roof or FORTIFIED standards? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com to learn more.
#66
March 20 · 22 min
Roof Deck Attachment Documentation Standards
In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, the AI Experts informed by Knockout Inspections break down Roof Deck Attachment Documentation Standards and explain what FORTIFIED evaluators, roofers, and homeowners need to know about documenting roof sheathing nail patterns. You’ll learn why roof deck attachment documentation matters, the purpose behind confirming both nail spacing and nail penetration into structural members, and the current standard requirement for eight total photos taken from both above and below the roof deck. The episode also covers the two approved alternative documentation paths for cases where attic access is blocked, the underside of the deck is obscured, or top-side photos cannot be captured during certain new construction projects. Whether you are pursuing a FORTIFIED designation, planning a re-roof, or simply want to better understand what resilient roofing documentation looks like, this episode helps clarify the standards that can make or break an evaluation. Have questions after listening? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com.
#65
March 13 · 16 min
Foundation Requirements for Eligibility
In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, the AI Experts informed by Knockout Inspections break down one of the most important topics in resilient construction: foundation requirements for FORTIFIED eligibility. Listeners will learn which foundation types are eligible for FORTIFIED Roof, which foundation conditions can make a home ineligible, and why dry-stack foundations are a major concern. The episode also explains how eligibility changes between FORTIFIED Roof, FORTIFIED Silver, and FORTIFIED Gold, including when positive anchorage to the foundation is required and what documentation evaluators need to verify compliance. This episode is especially helpful for homeowners, builders, contractors, real estate professionals, and anyone exploring how to make a home more severe-weather ready, more reliable, and more resilient. It also highlights key distinctions for homes with slab-on-grade foundations, stem walls, piers or pilings, and HUD-Code manufactured homes. Based on the referenced technical bulletin, positive attachment to the foundation is no longer required for FORTIFIED Roof eligibility, but it remains required for FORTIFIED Silver and FORTIFIED Gold. The bulletin also states that homes on dry-stack masonry or stone foundations are not eligible unless properly retrofitted, and that evaluators must document foundation type and, in some cases, anchorage details. If you have questions about your home’s eligibility, foundation type, or next steps toward a FORTIFIED designation, contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com.
#64
March 6 · 22 min
Reroofing Over Self-Adhered Membranes
When it’s time to replace a roof, what happens if the existing roof already has a self-adhered membrane installed on the deck? In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, the AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) break down the engineering guidance behind reroofing over self-adhered membranes and what homeowners, contractors, and inspectors need to know to stay FORTIFIED-compliant. Self-adhered polymer-modified bitumen membranes are widely used in the FORTIFIED Roof™ sealed roof deck system because they adhere directly to the roof deck and can remain in place even if the roof covering is lost during severe weather. But that durability can raise an important question: How do you reroof when the membrane is bonded to the decking? In this episode, we cover: Why self-adhered membranes are a powerful defense against wind-driven rain The challenges of removing adhered underlayment during reroofing When installing a second layer of self-adhered membrane is allowed When a two-ply felt sealed roof deck system can be used instead Why closed-cell spray foam full-fill applications are not accepted for this scenario How inspectors verify the condition of the roof deck from the attic The documentation required for a FORTIFIED re-roof project If you’re planning a reroof, working toward a FORTIFIED Home™ designation, or simply want to better understand how resilient roofing systems work, this episode explains the technical bulletin guidance in clear, practical terms. A stronger roof means a stronger home—and better protection when severe weather strikes. Have questions about FORTIFIED roofing or reroofing projects? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com to learn more.
#63
February 27 · 12 min
Fiberglass Resin Deck Coatings as Roof Covers
When it comes to resilient, reliable, and severe-weather-ready homes, every layer of your roof system matters — especially when unique materials like fiberglass resin deck coatings are involved. In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, our AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) break down the latest guidance from FORTIFIED Engineering Standards on the eligibility of existing fiberglass resin deck coatings as roof covers in FORTIFIED Home™ designations. Based on FORTIFIED Product Advisory FH 2023-01 (released June 6, 2023) , we explore: ✅ When a fiberglass-covered roof deck does not impact your FORTIFIED designation ⚠️ When fiberglass coatings must be removed and replaced to qualify 🏠 The key difference between areas over living space vs. non-living space 📘 How the 2025 FORTIFIED Home™ Standard applies to low-slope roof covers If your home has rooftop decks, walking surfaces, or fiberglass resin applications tied into the main roof system, this episode is a must-listen. Understanding these distinctions could mean the difference between qualifying — or not — for a FORTIFIED designation. As always, we simplify the technical standards so homeowners can make confident, informed decisions about protecting their most important investment.

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