The FORTIFIED Factor

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.