Every neighborhood has its Protectors—homeowners like you, who take action to safeguard their families, homes, and communities. Protectors understand that resilience starts before the storm. By making smart upgrades and following proven building standards, it’s possible to dramatically reduce the risk of catastrophic losses from severe weather. Strengthening a home doesn’t just prevent physical damage—it also helps avoid the emotional stress, financial strain, and time lost that often follow major disasters.
Building Stronger from the Top Down
A home’s roof is its first line of defense. Reinforcing the use of FORTIFIED Roof™ standards from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) is one of the most effective ways to strengthen a home against high winds, hail, and heavy rain. The FORTIFIED program provides science-based construction and retrofit guidelines that help roofs stay intact when storms hit.
Key FORTIFIED Roof Practices
- Seal the Roof Deck: Apply a secondary water barrier beneath shingles to prevent rain from entering the home if the roof covering is damaged.
- Upgrade Fasteners: Use ring-shank nails instead of smooth-shank nails to increase wind resistance and keep shingles in place.
- Enhance Edge Protection: Reinforce roof edges with stronger materials to reduce the risk of uplift during high winds.
- Schedule Regular Roof Inspections: Have a professional inspect the roof at least once a year to catch small issues before they become costly repairs.
Educational Resource: Explore the homeowners resources and learn more about FORTIFIED Roof standards at fortifiedhome.org.
Strengthening the Structure
Protectors can take additional steps to reinforce their homes beyond the roof.
- Install Impact-Resistant Windows and Doors: Choose products rated for high winds and flying debris to prevent structural breaches.
- Anchor and Brace Key Areas: Secure walls, decks, and carports to the foundation to reduce the risk of collapse during storms.
- Maintain Proper Drainage Systems: Keep gutters, downspouts, and grading clear to prevent water accumulation and foundation damage.
Educational Resource: Visit ibhs.org for home disaster guides on strengthening home structures and improving storm resilience.
Everyday Materials That Make a Difference
Simple material choices can make a big difference in protecting a home.
- Moisture-Resistant Sheathing: Reduces the risk of mold and rot after heavy rain.
- Fire-Resistant Siding and Roofing: Provides added protection in wildfire-prone areas.
- High-Quality Sealants and Flashing: Keeps water out of vulnerable joints and seams.
Educational Resource: Explore the Ready.gov home protection section for practical tips on materials and maintenance.
A Culture of Preparedness
Being a Protector isn’t about fear—it’s about foresight. By investing in stronger materials, following proven building standards, and maintaining regular inspections, homeowners can safeguard their homes and communities from catastrophic losses. These proactive steps not only protect property but also preserve peace of mind, saving countless hours of recovery time and emotional energy after a disaster. Every upgrade, inspection, and improvement strengthens not just one home, but the entire neighborhood. When Protectors take action, resilience truly becomes a shared strength.
