Protecting Oklahoma Homes with FORTIFIED Roofs

Oklahoma is no stranger to extreme weather. From violent windstorms and heavy rains to destructive hail and tornadoes, residents across our state understand the importance of having a roof that can withstand the elements. 

That’s why more and more homeowners are choosing to upgrade to a FORTIFIED Roof system. Designed to go beyond standard building codes, FORTIFIED Roofs provide enhanced protection for your home during severe weather events. 

At Statewide Roofing, we are proud to offer FORTIFIED Roof services as part of our commitment to keeping Oklahoma families safe. Keep reading to learn more about FORTIFIED  Roof and why it’s a smart investment for your home.

What Is a FORTIFIED Roof?

The FORTIFIED Roof program was developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) as a set of voluntary construction and re-roofing standards aimed at strengthening homes against the forces of nature. 

Unlike traditional roofing methods, FORTIFIED Roof systems are engineered to perform better during high winds, hailstorms, hurricanes, and even tornadoes.

Key features of the FORTIFIED Roof system include:

• Stronger Roof Edges: The edges of your roof are the most vulnerable during high winds. FORTIFIED Roofs use advanced installation techniques and materials to help prevent wind from lifting and tearing away shingles at the edges.
• Sealed Roof Deck: In a typical roof, if shingles are blown off, rain can pour in through the gaps and cause significant water damage. A FORTIFIED Roof includes a sealed roof deck that helps keep water out even if the roof covering is compromised.
• Enhanced Roof Attachment: FORTIFIED Roofs use more nails and stronger fasteners to help ensure that the roof deck stays attached to the home, even during powerful wind events.

These components work together to reduce the risk of damage and make homes more resilient in the face of Oklahoma’s unpredictable weather.

Why Statewide Roofing Offers FORTIFIED Roof Services

At Statewide Roofing, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating effects that storms can have on Oklahoma homes. With over 25 years of experience serving communities across the state, we’ve made it our mission to provide roofing solutions that not only repair storm damage but also prevent it.

We chose to become certified installers of FORTIFIED Roof systems because we believe in proactive protection. The IBHS standards align with our values of quality craftsmanship, customer care, and long-term value. When we install a FORTIFIED Roof, we’re not just putting on shingles, we’re giving our customers greater peace of mind.

Our FORTIFIED Roof services include:

• Detailed roof inspections to determine FORTIFIED eligibility
• Expert guidance on the best upgrade options for your property
• Installation by trained and certified roofing professionals
• Assistance with documentation and certification through IBHS

We also stay up to date on all FORTIFIED program updates and training, ensuring our clients receive cutting-edge service and the most current information available.

The Benefits of a FORTIFIED Roof for Oklahoma Homes

1. Storm Protection You Can Count On

Oklahoma is located in the heart of "Tornado Alley," which means homeowners must be prepared for everything from 60+ mph winds to flying debris and torrential rain. FORTIFIED Roofs are tested and proven to withstand high wind speeds and offer added defense against hail up to two inches in diameter.

In the event of a storm, a FORTIFIED Roof dramatically reduces the likelihood of losing shingles, experiencing water intrusion, or sustaining structural damage. It’s not just about protecting the roof, it’s about protecting everything under it: your family, your belongings, and your way of life.

2. Reduced Insurance Premiums

Another compelling reason to upgrade to a FORTIFIED Roof is the potential for significant savings on your homeowner’s insurance. Many insurance providers offer premium discounts to policyholders with FORTIFIED-certified roofs. These discounts can be up to 42% in the state of Oklahoma, depending on your insurer and the level of certification (Silver or Gold).

These savings can add up quickly and offset the initial investment of the upgrade. Over time, homeowners find that a FORTIFIED Roof not only pays for itself but also increases the value of their property.

3. Lower Repair and Maintenance Costs

FORTIFIED Roofs are built to be stronger and last longer, which means fewer repairs over the life of your roof. By reducing the likelihood of leaks, shingle loss, and structural issues, these systems keep maintenance costs lower than traditional roofs.

In addition, if your home does suffer minor damage during a storm, the sealed roof deck can prevent costly water damage to your interior, insulation, and electrical systems. It’s a smarter, more cost-effective approach to home protection.

4. Increased Home Resale Value

In today’s real estate market, buyers are looking for homes that offer durability and peace of mind. A FORTIFIED Roof certification can be a strong selling point, signaling to potential buyers that your home has been upgraded to meet rigorous safety standards. According to industry studies, homes with FORTIFIED Roofs can see up to a 7%  increase in resale value.

Whether you plan to stay in your home for decades or eventually put it on the market, a FORTIFIED Roof is a sound investment.

Getting Started: What to Expect with Statewide Roofing

If you’re ready to upgrade to a FORTIFIED Roof in Oklahoma, Statewide Roofing makes the process simple and stress-free:

1. Schedule Your Inspection: We begin with a roof inspection to evaluate your current system and determine whether your home qualifies for a FORTIFIED upgrade.
2. Customized Recommendations: Based on your needs, budget, and home design, we provide tailored recommendations and a detailed quote outlining the scope of work.
3. Professional Installation: Our certified roofing crews install your FORTIFIED Roof to exact specifications, ensuring every component meets IBHS standards.
4. Final Certification: Once the work is complete, we assist with the documentation and verification process so your roof can be officially certified as FORTIFIED.

We also communicate with your insurance company as needed and provide documentation to help you apply for any available discounts.

Why It Matters More in Oklahoma

Living in Oklahoma means living with the reality of powerful storms and rapidly changing weather. FORTIFIED Roofs are particularly valuable here because they provide a reliable defense against some of the most common threats faced by homeowners in the state.

High winds can rip off standard shingles, hail can puncture roof coverings, and even a short-lived tornado can cause extensive damage. By investing in a FORTIFIED Roof, you are choosing a system that is tested to perform under these extreme conditions.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to protecting your home, not all roofs are created equal. A FORTIFIED Roof goes beyond the basic standards to give you advanced protection, lower insurance costs, and lasting peace of mind.

Statewide Roofing is proud to be one of Oklahoma’s leading providers of FORTIFIED Roof systems. With our expertise, dedication to quality, and customer-first approach, we help homeowners across the state prepare for whatever Mother Nature may bring.

If you’re interested in learning more about upgrading your roof to FORTIFIED standards, contact Statewide Roofing today to schedule your inspection. We’re here to help you build a stronger, safer future for your home.