BATON ROUGE, La. (WAFB) – Homeowners in Louisiana are increasingly opting for fortified roofs when replacing their existing roofs or building new homes. This extra layer of protection, while not required by Louisiana building codes, offers significant benefits. According to Craig Carroll, president of Garcia Roofing, the added cost of a fortified roof ranges from 10-20% more than a traditional roof that meets building codes.
The key differences between a standard roof and a fortified roof lie in the construction details. Fortified roofs use more nails with specific spacing, specialized underlay sealants including ice and water shields, and require independent inspections before certification. Eduardo Zamora, Garcia Roofing’s director of operations, explains that fortified roofs use numerous fasteners and materials that bond with the decking, making them more resistant to wind damage.
Benefits of Fortified Roofs
The primary advantages of investing in a fortified roof are enhanced peace of mind during storms and potential savings on homeowners’ insurance. Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple notes that insurance companies are required to offer discounts to homeowners with certified fortified roofs. The discount amount varies based on the home’s size and value.
State Support for Fortified Roofs
To encourage the adoption of fortified roofs, Louisiana funded a grant program through the Fortified Homes initiative, offering applicants up to $10,000 towards installation costs. Alicia Craig of Slidell was among the first to receive this grant and reported a smooth experience after soliciting multiple estimates.
A recent review by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor found that fortified roofs typically save homeowners $1,250 annually on insurance premiums. The average installation cost for grant recipients was $16,229, with costs varying by home size and value. The certification process includes a $500-$1,000 fee for independent inspections.
The audit report suggests that while fortified roofs are particularly cost-effective for coastal areas, homeowners inland should consider waiting until their roof needs replacement before upgrading. For those interested in applying for grants, more information is available on the Louisiana Fortified Home Program website.
Conclusion
Fortified roofs offer Louisiana homeowners enhanced protection against severe weather and potential insurance savings. While the initial cost is higher, the long-term benefits make them an attractive option, particularly for those in coastal regions.
