FORTIFIED Roof: Complete Guide to Hurricane-Resistant Roofing & Insurance Savings for Myrtle Beach Homeowners

What is a FORTIFIED Roof?

The IBHS Standard Explained

FORTIFIED is a science-based construction and re-roofing program developed by the Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS)—a nonprofit research organization backed by the insurance industry. Unlike marketing claims like "hurricane-rated," FORTIFIED certification requires:

• Independent third-party verification by trained FORTIFIED evaluators
• Specific installation methods that exceed building codes
• Documentation and photo verification throughout the process
• Certificate validation recognized by insurance companies

FORTIFIED isn't a product you buy—it's a building method that strengthens how roofing components work together to resist high winds and water intrusion.

Three Levels of FORTIFIED Certification

How FORTIFIED Differs from "Hurricane-Rated" Marketing

Many roofing products claim to be "hurricane-rated" or "storm-resistant," but these are manufacturer claims without independent verification. FORTIFIED certification is different:

• FORTIFIED = Verified by independent, third-party inspector
• "Hurricane-rated" = Marketing claim by manufacturer (no verification)

This verification matters because insurance companies trust FORTIFIED certification and offer documented discounts. They don't offer discounts for marketing claims alone.

Why Myrtle Beach Homeowners Need FORTIFIED Roofs

The Insurance Crisis in Coastal SC

Coastal South Carolina homeowners face a perfect storm of insurance challenges:

• Average SC coastal premium: $4,772/year (highest in the state)
• Annual increases: 15-40% since 2020
• Carriers leaving: Multiple insurers have exited coastal markets
• Age restrictions tightening: Many carriers won't insure roofs over 10-15 years old

As we covered in our guide on insurance coverage changes for older roofs, the situation is getting worse. FORTIFIED certification is one of the few ways to fight back against rising premiums.

Hurricane Risk Reality

NOAA's 2025 Atlantic hurricane season prediction included 13-19 named storms. Myrtle Beach sits in a high-risk wind zone where:

• Category 1 hurricanes bring 74-95 mph sustained winds
• Standard asphalt shingles are rated for only 60-70 mph
• FORTIFIED roofs are rated for 130-180 mph depending on materials

The math is simple: standard roofs are under-engineered for our wind exposure. FORTIFIED certification closes that gap.

Real Data: FORTIFIED Homes Perform Better

IBHS research following Hurricanes Matthew, Florence, Dorian, and Isaias showed dramatic differences:

• 35% fewer claims filed by FORTIFIED homeowners
• When claims were filed, damage was 23% less severe
• 63% reduction in claims from non-named storms compared to standard roofing
• University of Alabama study: FORTIFIED homes sell for ~7% more

How Much Does a FORTIFIED Roof Cost?

Cost Breakdown by Certification Level

FORTIFIED Roof (Bronze) - Most Common for Existing Homes

The FORTIFIED upgrade represents approximately 20% above a standard roof replacement. The exact cost varies based on roof size, complexity, and current condition.

ROI Analysis: Is It Worth It?

Example Calculation (FORTIFIED Roof Bronze):

• FORTIFIED upgrade cost: ~$3,000-4,500 above standard
• Annual insurance savings: ~$1,000-1,500 (25% off wind portion)
• Payback period: 2-4 years
• 15-year net savings: $11,000-19,000
• Plus: Superior storm protection + ~7% higher resale value

Factors Affecting Your Specific Cost

• Roof size (square footage)
• Current roof condition (may affect deck work needed)
• Accessibility (height, landscaping, etc.)
• Existing materials (some require more upgrades)
• Timing (off-season vs. hurricane prep season)

For a personalized estimate, request a free FORTIFIED assessment.

SC Safe Home Grant Program

What is SC Safe Home?

The SC Safe Home Mitigation Grant Program is administered by the South Carolina Department of Insurance. It provides grants to help coastal property owners retrofit their homes to be more resistant to hurricanes and high-wind damage.

• Program results: 7,992 homeowners have received $39 million since inception
• Insurance impact: Recipients report savings up to 24% annually on premiums
• FORTIFIED partnership: SC Safe Home has partnered with IBHS FORTIFIED program

Grant Types Available

Matching Grants (50/50)

• You pay half, state pays half
• Maximum grant varies by program cycle
• Most common option for homeowners

Non-Matching Grants

• Income-qualified homeowners may receive higher coverage
• Can cover larger percentage of costs
• Limited availability each cycle

Resilient Mitigation Award

• New option partnered with FORTIFIED standards
• May qualify for additional insurance benefits
• Must meet shared FORTIFIED/SC Safe Home standards

Eligibility Requirements

• Horry County: ELIGIBLE
• Must be primary residence in eligible SC counties
• Home value limits may apply during certain cycles
• Must use SC-licensed contractor
• Must obtain FORTIFIED certification upon completion

How to Apply

1. Check eligibility at doi.sc.gov/sc-safe-home
2. Get roof assessment from qualified contractor (free from WeatherShield)
3. Submit application during open enrollment periods
4. Await approval notification
5. Complete work within required timeline
6. Submit certification documentation
7. Receive grant reimbursement

Insurance Discounts: What to Expect

South Carolina Insurance Savings by Level

Important: In coastal SC, the wind portion can be 60-80% of your total premium. A 25% discount on wind coverage can mean hundreds to over a thousand dollars saved annually.

Which Insurers Offer Discounts?

Most major carriers now recognize FORTIFIED certification, including:

• Allstate
• State Farm
• USAA
• Citizens
• Travelers
• Many regional carriers

Discount amounts vary by carrier. Contact your agent with your FORTIFIED certificate number to confirm available discounts.

How to Maximize Your Discount

1. Complete certification BEFORE policy renewal
2. Provide certificate to your agent/carrier immediately
3. Request wind mitigation credit specifically
4. Shop multiple carriers with your certificate
5. Stack with other discounts (security system, claims-free, etc.)

For more on insurance savings, see our guide on how a new roof can lower your home insurance.

The FORTIFIED Certification Process

Step 1: Initial Assessment

A licensed FORTIFIED evaluator or trained contractor inspects your current roof to:

• Evaluate current condition and remaining lifespan
• Identify gaps from FORTIFIED standards
• Provide written report with recommendations
• Estimate costs for FORTIFIED upgrade

Cost: Often free from qualified contractors like WeatherShield Roofing.

Step 2: Choose Your Path

Option A: Full Roof Replacement with FORTIFIED Upgrades

• Best if roof is 10+ years old
• Most comprehensive protection
• Highest insurance savings
• Recommended for most homeowners

Option B: Re-Roofing with FORTIFIED Elements

• Add FORTIFIED elements during normal replacement
• Must include all required components
• Requires sealed deck, enhanced attachment

Option C: Retrofit Existing Roof (Limited)

• Some upgrades possible without full replacement
• May only qualify for partial certification
• Discuss specific options with evaluator

Step 3: Installation

• Must use FORTIFIED-trained contractor
• Specific installation methods required per IBHS standards
• Photo documentation throughout entire process
• No shortcuts allowed on any steps

Step 4: Third-Party Inspection

• Independent FORTIFIED evaluator inspects completed work
• Verifies all standards have been met
• Typically takes 2-4 hours
• Pass/fail with remediation option if needed

Step 5: Certification

• Receive official FORTIFIED certificate upon passing
• Valid for 5 years
• Submit certificate to insurance carrier
• Certificate transfers to new homeowner if you sell

Technical Requirements: What Makes a Roof FORTIFIED

FORTIFIED Roof Checklist

1. Sealed Roof Deck

• Secondary water barrier required
• Self-adhering membrane or enhanced underlayment
• Covers entire roof deck
• Why: Prevents water intrusion if shingles blow off

2. Drip Edge Installation

• Metal drip edge on all edges
• Specific fastening pattern (4" spacing)
• Sealant at all laps
• Why: Prevents wind uplift at edges where damage typically starts

3. Enhanced Shingle Attachment

• Six nails per shingle minimum (vs 4 standard)
• Specific nail placement pattern
• Enhanced starter strip
• Why: Keeps shingles attached in 130+ mph winds

4. Roof-to-Wall Connection

• Hurricane clips or straps required
• Connects rafters to top plate
• Why: Prevents roof lift-off during high winds

5. Flashing Requirements

• Code-plus flashing at all penetrations
• Step flashing properly integrated
• Kickout flashing at wall-roof intersections
• Why: Eliminates 90% of common leak points

FORTIFIED vs Standard Roof: Side-by-Side Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions About FORTIFIED Roofs

Get Your Free FORTIFIED Assessment

Is Your Roof FORTIFIED-Ready?

With hurricane season active and insurance rates climbing, now is the ideal time to evaluate your FORTIFIED options.

Why Choose WeatherShield Roofing?

• 5.0-star Google rating (73+ reviews)
• FORTIFIED installation trained
• SC-licensed and insured
• Horry County's trusted roofing experts
• Transparent pricing, no hidden fees
• Help with SC Safe Home grant applications

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