Severe weather events have been wreaking havoc across the United States, with 2024 alone bearing witness to 24 weather-related disasters costing upwards of $1 billion in damages.
Homeowners in at-risk areas are seeking better ways to protect their homes, families, and investments against such unpredictable forces of nature.
In response to this urgent need, GAF, North America’s largest roofing and waterproofing manufacturer, and the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) have joined forces in a first-of-its-kind alliance to make FORTIFIED™ Roofs more accessible to homeowners nationwide.
This powerful partnership combines GAF’s industry-leading expertise in roofing and IBHS’s groundbreaking research to create a solution that builds stronger, safer homes designed to withstand hurricanes, tornadoes, and other severe weather events.
What Are FORTIFIED™ Roofs?
Developed by IBHS based on decades of meticulous research, the FORTIFIED Roofing Program is a voluntary construction and re-roofing initiative that goes beyond standard building codes. The goal? To provide homeowners with superior protection against extreme weather by implementing advanced roofing materials, installation techniques, and structural enhancements.
Homeowners who opt for a FORTIFIED Roof may also benefit from insurance discounts, grants, and other incentives. All this provides both peace of mind and financial advantages.
Key Elements of the GAF and IBHS Alliance
This collaboration is focused on expanding access to FORTIFIED Roofs by leveraging GAF’s resources and expertise. Here’s what makes this partnership groundbreaking:
Expanded Access to High-Quality Roofing Products
GAF offers a comprehensive portfolio of roofing products that meet the rigorous FORTIFIED Roofing standards, such as:
– WeatherWatch® Ice & Water Leak Barrier
– StormGuard® Film-Surfaced Leak Barrier
– QuickStart® Peel & Stick Starter Roll
– FeltBuster® Synthetic Roofing Felt
– Timberline HDZ® and UHDZ® Shingles
These materials, carefully tested to withstand severe weather conditions, allow homeowners to fortify their homes with confidence.
Specialized Contractor Training Programs
To ensure an elite standard of installation, the GAF CARE (Center for Advancement of Roofing Excellence) program will provide specialized training to contractors. This training equips GAF-certified contractors with the knowledge and skills required to meet the strict FORTIFIED standards.
This ensures that homeowners have access to experienced professionals who can enhance their homes’ durability and safety.
Enhanced Warranty Benefits
Homeowners who install a FORTIFIED Roofing through a GAF Master Elite® Roofing Contractor, like Muth Roofing, and purchase a Golden Pledge® Limited Warranty receive additional benefits under the new FORTIFIED Addendum.
Resilience-Building for Communities
With over 70,000 homes in 31 states already adopting the FORTIFIED solution, the impact is clear. Fewer homes destroyed, fewer families displaced, and stronger communities nationwide. This alliance will make the FORTIFIED Roofing Program more widespread. Especially in regions frequently hit by severe thunderstorms, hurricanes, and tornadoes.
Let’s build stronger homes, one roof at a time—because protecting what matters most starts from the top. For more information or to schedule a professional inspection of your roof to determine if roof repair is necessary, call the Central Ohio roofing experts at Muth & Company at (614) 682-3060.