ASCE 7 Components & Cladding Wall Wind Pressure Calculator
Calculate components & cladding wall pressures for up to 50 openings. Easily order certified copies for review & permit.
Design Help For The IBHS FORTIFIED Home Program*
We Are Specialty Engineers That Can Assist You With Custom FORTIFIED Conditions
Start Here: What Is FORTIFIED?
FORTIFIED® is a voluntary construction and re-roofing program that strengthens homes and commercial buildings against severe weather, including high winds, hail, hurricanes, and tornadoes.
A FORTIFIED Certified Service Pro works with you our your contractor to guide construction, verify compliance, and issue a FORTIFIED designation certificate, which will attract more interested insurance providers & qualify the property for insurance discounts.
FORTIFIEDHelp.com exists to support contractors with clear guidance, engineering-backed solutions, & approval pathways for construction alternatives.
FORTIFIED Gold House Engineering Consultation By Engineering Express®
The FORTFIED Process
Types of FORTIFIED Certifications Available
FORTIFIED ROOF
FORTIFIED Roof is a new or re-roof program which includes fortification such as:
– Enhanced roofnailing
– A sealed roof deck
– Locked down roof edges
This gives your home its best chance of weathering a storm.
Roofing materials consist of Product-Approved materials installed per manufacturer specifications or Engineered Approved Alternatives.
To qualify your roof for FORTIFIED Roof:
– Hire a design professional experienced in the FORTIFIED process to architect your roofing solution.
– Retain a FORTIFIED service pro to monitor & certify your installation
– Submit your FORTIFIED Roof certificate to your participating insurance company.
FORTIFIED Silver
FORTIFIED Silver includes fortification of the roof as described herein plus:
- > Impact Doors & Windows
- > Impact Garage Door
- > Chimney Bracing
- > Reinforced Soffits
- > Properly Secured Attached Structures (such as carports & porches & sunrooms)
- Gable End Bracing
A FORTIFIED Silver designation qualifies for more insurance discounts than just FORTIFIED Roof and consists of Product-Approved materials installed per manufacturer specifications or Engineered Approved Alternatives.
To qualify your roof for FORTIFIED Silver:
– Hire a design professional experienced in the FORTIFIED process to architect your Silver solution.
– Retain a FORTIFIED service pro to monitor & certify your installation
– Submit your FORTIFIED Silver certificate to your participating insurance company.
FORTIFIED Gold
FORTIFIED Gold builds on Silver by adding additional reinforcements:
- > Pressure-Rated Windows & Doors (full impact, where required)
- > Stronger Exterior Sheathing
- > Engineered Roof-To-Wall Connections
- > Engineered Story-To-Story Connections
- > Engineered Wall-To-Foundation Connections
A FORTIFIED Gold designation qualifies for more insurance discounts than just FORTIFIED Silver and consists of Product-Approved materials installed per manufacturer specifications or Engineered Approved Alternatives.
To qualify your roof for FORTIFIED Gold:
– Hire a design professional experienced in the FORTIFIED process to architect your Gold solution.
– Retain a FORTIFIED service pro to monitor & certify your installation
– Submit your FORTIFIED Gold certificate to your participating insurance company.
We Approve Unique FORTIFIED Conditions
Engineering Firms like Engineering Express® can assist the contractor and designer in certifying product installation types as an approved alternate to the prescribed evaluation.
Areas Acceptable to FORTIFIED For Interpretation
Click each header for explanation & solution.
Calculating Site Specific Wall Wind Pressures For Windows, Doors, & Garage Doors
Issue:
Windows, doors, & garage doors must be installed to approved design pressure & applicable impact rating standards.
Products used for FORTIFIED Silver & Gold must have a Product Approval which lists the approved pressures. That limitation must be compared to the site-specific installation by a design professional for approval of use.
Solution:
In some areas (specifically Florida), wind pressure charts scaled by an engineer can suffice as proof of design pressures.
For a more site-specific approach, this design calculator can establish design pressures for your windows, doors & garage doors for review and certification by an engineer from Engineering Express®
For the most hands-on approach, Engineering Express has a site-specific consultation service available to assist you in determining the exact pressure and ideal product/installation for your need. Start by filling out this easy request form.
Or Select a more automated, quicker & less costly option:
-
Wind Pressure Charts For Windows – Doors – Shutters
Price range: $25.00 through $30.00
or ( 2.5 Tokens - 3 Tokens ) View
Calculating Site-Specfic Wind Uplift Pressures For Non-Shingle Roof Covers
Issue:
Simlar to windows, doors, & garage doors, non-shingle (concrete & clay tile, metal roofs, wood shingles & similar) must be installed to approved design pressures.
Products used for FORTIFIED Roof, Silver & Gold must have a Product Approval which lists the approved pressures. That limitation must be compared to the site-specific installation by a design professional for approval of use.
While pressure cannot be extrapolated beyond their approved ratings, engineers can help interpolate between approved conditions to alter items such as attachments and other special conditions to help certify non-conforming items.
Solution:
The FORTIFIED Standard, 2025 contains a ‘deemed to comply’ roof pressure uplift chart (Appendix B1) to assist in design. Many times this is overly-general and a site specific evaluation will greatly assist in approving a specific roofing product for use.
For the most hands-on approach, Engineering Express has a site-specific consultation service available to assist you in determining the exact pressure and ideal product/installation for your need. Start by requesting a site-specific quote below.
References:
2023-05 : FORTIFIED Requirements for Cement and Clay Hip and Ridge Tile Installed Over Asphalt Shingle Roof Cover | Español
2023 FBC Roofing Application Standard RAS 115 (asphalt shingle)
2023 FBC Roofing Applications Standard RAS 118 (mechanical roof tiles)
2020-01 : Design Pressure Guidance for Roof Coverings | Español
2019-01 : Metal Panel Roof Covering Guidance | Español
Alternate Component Framing Attachment & Shimming
Issue:
Product approvals don’t always reference every possible substrate to attach to, and list only the tested shim space between the frame & host structure.
Field conditions vary greatly from ideal tested conditions – Windows & doors can be installed to wood, steel, CMU block, concrete, and other surfaces when the product approval only calls out one type.
Or a 1/4″ maximum shim shown in an approval is rarely adhered to with such diverse installation anomalies.
Encountering these conditions can jeopardize a coveted FORTIFIED designation unless a design professional experienced in these conditions for FORTIFIED approval gets involved.
Solution:
An experienced design professional can calculate alternate substrates and shim spaces on a per-product and per-condition basis to restore the capacity of the product to the capacity of the approved condition.
This is typically performed by adding solid shims, increasing anchorage in affected areas, specifying alternate anchors, or approved as installed.
A site-specific analysis of the condition is required.
Other Articles Published by Engineering Express:
Window and Door Shimming: Code Requirements and Engineering Reality
Window and Door Shimming: Code Requirements and Engineering Reality Improper shimming is a structural installation defect, not a cosmetic issue. It becomes most critical when
Can an engineer design alternate anchorage for a Florida product approval or other product evaluation?
Can an engineer design alternate anchorage for a Florida product approval or other product evaluation? Say you have an evaluation report for a window or
Interpreting Product Approvals To Select Systems With Adequate Design Pressure Ratings
Issue:
Exterior building products for use with FORTIFIED (such as roofing materials, windows, doors, siding, connections, etc). require a performance evaluation report approved by a recognized entity (AKA Product Approvals from entities such as ICC, Florida, Miami Dade, etc.).
Occasionally, assistance is needed in properly interpreting the myriad of tables, details, and notes on these reports. It’s also difficult to locate products that will work for site-specific conditions and are readily available for purchase.
It’s also possible you have a product without a product approval which may still qualify for use if it’s been or can be tested or evaluated.
Solution:
Your project architect should be able to navigate the reports needed for your project, but you can also contact Engineering Express for a consultation call on selecting appropriate building products for your project or evaluate the building product you have to qualify for the FORTIFIED program.
Example of a Product Approval Table Needing Interpretation
References:
Florida Local Product Approval FS553.8425, adopted for FORTIFIED Use nationwide as applicable
Search all product approval entities at once at EngineeringPlans.com – a directory service proudly provided by Engineering Express.
Interpolating Between Tested Values Or Accessing Other Deviations From The Exact Tested Assembly Requirements
Issue:
Tables only contain just so many results. Many times, ’rounding up’ to the next table value costs money in unneeded materials, inefficient designs, and answers that don’t work.
Product Evaluations are intended to provide baselines for building product use, not to solve every scenario.
Solution:
A Design Professional trained on interpolating chart data is capable of producing certified reports that meet FORTIFIED criteria to help get your project approved AND save material costs.
Engineering Express can provide this analysis and often save many times our consulting fee in certifying a better option for your project.
Example of a Product Approval chart that can be interpreted by a Design Professional
IBC Section 104.11 (Alternative Materials): This is the primary code section that allows for the use of data, calculations, and engineering evaluations to support the approval of materials or methods not explicitly covered in the code.
Engineering Analysis: When explicit data points are missing, interpolation of data from certified test reports is commonly accepted under the “alternative methods” provision, provided the analysis is submitted to the building official.
Evaluation Reports (ICC-ES): Products that are not fully covered by prescriptive codes often use evaluations from organizations like the ICC Evaluation Service, LLCto demonstrate compliance.
Performance-Based Design: The IBC is inherently performance-based, allowing for engineering analyses to demonstrate that a design meets or exceeds the safety requirements of the code.
Elevated Roof-Mounted Deck Attachment & Connections For Wind
Issue:
For the required FORTIFIED Roof level designation, a professional engineer must confirm a list of verification requirements to confirm the deck is permanently structurally attached to the roof framing with connections in good condition.
For the Silver and Gold designation, the connection must be assessed to ensure it is adequate for the site design loads.
Roof-mounted or “rooftop” decks (typically wood-framed decks that are built over the roof of a home) are popular in some parts of the country. Any deck or balcony that is located over an area defined as a required roof section per the FORTIFIED Home Standard Section 2.6, is included within the scope of this technical bulletin. |
Solution:
The integrity of the attachment of a roof cover to the main residence typically requires a local design professional to assess the site-specific conditions in person to certify or design an adequate connection.
It is possible in some situations where a live video feed and photographs can be used by a remote engineer to assist in this certification.
The ability to virtually inspect is being adopted more each day by municipalities across the US. Florida has adopted this rule statewide (House Bill 667, FS 553.79(6) and 553.79(8).
They will need to verify the following:
Elevated roof-mounted decks must be permanently attached to the roof structural members with positive anchorage and are in good condition.
- – Gravity-only mounted decks are NOT eligible for designation
- – Connections that are only to the roof cover/roof sheathing are NOT eligible for designation
- – Positive anchorage may include metal connectors or bolts that connect the deck to the main structural system of the roof. Nail only connections (such as toenailed connections) are NOT eligible for designation
- – All deck components that penetrate the roof and their connections to the roof structural members must be free of rot, rust at connectors, deterioration, and damage.
Contact Engineering Express to discuss a virtual inspection for your project if permitted by your municipality.
Roof Framing Assemblies Outside of FORTIFIED Prescriptive Eligibility
Issue:
When designing roof wood framing for a home, the FORTIFIED prescriptive method is a wood structural member (wood trusses or engineered rafters) with a minimum of 2in nominal thickness (1.5″ measured thickness) spaced 24″ on center.
Wood structural panels (plywood or ODB) or wood board decking shall cover the framing.
For wood roof framing outside these parameters, a review & sealed letter from an engineer is required.
Solution:
This is a deviation that an engineer or architect of record for your project needs to address to ensure the overall stability of the roof sheathing over a larger span as we as the integrity of the structure is accommodated.
Items like uplift strapping, racking & diaphragm support all play into the determination of a proper code compliant, FORTIFIED Design.
Engineering Express can assist you in determining and certifying an adequate design for your project to meet FORTIFIED standards.
- For wood structural panel overlay over wood board roof deck with excessive gaps, FORTIFIED has one prescriptive detail (F-RR-5). However, if conditions vary from the detail, for example if panel ends do not fall over trusses/rafters, then engineering assessment is required. Reference Technical Bulletin FH 2023-07:
References:
FORTIFIED Home Standard Section 2.5, Appendix B1
Technical Bulletin FH 2023-07 (for board roof deck with excessive gaps)
2022-01 : Roof Sheathing Nail Pattern Documentation Requirements | Español
Elevated / Roof Mounted HVAC Units & Mechanical Equipment Connections For Wind
Issue:
Assessing a roof-mounted HVAC assembly’s ability to withstand a high- wind event is a complex task, and if the support platform or HVAC unit fails there is a higher risk for compounded damage.
When a roof-mounted HVAC assembly is present, a professional engineer must determine eligibility for a FORTIFIED designation, regardless of construction materials used.
Solution:
A professional engineer must provide an assessment that the existing attachment of the supporting platform to the roof structure AND the attachment of the HVAC unit to the supporting platform is adequate to support all gravity and wind loads (including overturning loads) for the site conditions and provide repairs or retrofits as applicable.
Engineering Express is an expert in this field, providing AC certifications for major brands such as Trane, Carrier, Daikin, Rheem, and many others.
Let us assist you in determining your tie down and host integrity of your rooftop mechanical Equipment for your project.
Use our Rooftop Equipment Calculator
Rooftop Equipment Wind Pressure Calculator
Calculate mechanical rooftop equipment wind pressures & stand clearance heights for up to 5 units. Order certified copies for permit.
See Our Mechanical Equipment Resources
- – See our guide to design & permitting
– Download our how-to guide for professionals
– Use more AC stand design tools
– Browse over 300 plans for easy purchase
– Browse our knowledgeable
Retrofitting Ineligible Foundations
Issue:
FORTIFIED has more stringent requirements for HUD home foundations, and engineering evaluation may be necessary to determine if the foundation meets these requirements. If not, if may be retrofitted per a professional engineering plan.
Solution:
This is more of a primary structure design as opposed to building products modifications.
The structure will require a thorough review by a licensed design professional who can asses the site-specific conditions in person and develop a remedy plan.
Solutions will likely include:
- – Form & pour additional foundation elements
- – Pressure-grouting existing soils to expand foundation
- – Installation of new piers & jacking the structure
Or, there may be no solution to achieve a FORTIFIED designation.
References:
FORTIFIED Home Standard (see Section 2.4)
Technical Bulletin FH 2023-08
Aluminum Sunroom Design & Host Structure Integrity
Issue:
Sunrooms that meet the FORTIFIED definition of livable space must have structural design drawings or engineering assessment by a professional engineer.
Since metal framed sunrooms do not fall under FORTIFIED prescriptive requirements defined in section 2.5 of the 2025 FORTIFIED Home Standard, a letter of compliance from a professional engineer is required to confirm that the roof panels are adequately rated for the span and applicable site specific design wind pressures per ASCE 7, and that the attachment of the roof panels to the supporting framing below provides a safety factors per Appendix B1.
For the Gold level, the continuous load path design and installation of the sunroom must be documented.
This requires site-specific engineered plans.
If prescriptive engineered plans are utilized, they must be accompanied by a signed and sealed letter of compliance identifying the site conditions for the home and identifying the specific details that must be followed for the site.
Solution:
Engineering Express has over 30 years of experience designing sunrooms for companies like Elite, Structall, Four Seasons, and many more.
We’re more qualified than any company to review and certify sunroom installations*
*Local inspection whether in-person or virtual will likely be required for certification.
Browse Our Prescriptive Sunroom Plans
View Our Sunroom Articles
Other
Here are other topics provided by the FORIFIED Home program which may have opportunities for engineering clarification / interpretation
References:
2024-02 : FORTIFIED Guidance – Rain Diverters | Español
2023-09 : FORTIFIED Guidance on Leaf Guards and Gutters | Español
2023-08 : Eligibility Requirements for Homes Constructed to the HUD Code | Español
2025-01 Product Advisory FH: Impact-Resistant Asphalt Shingles
2023-05 : FORTIFIED Requirements for Cement and Clay Hip and Ridge Tile Installed Over Asphalt Shingle Roof Cover | Español
2023-04 : Use of Factory Seconds or Unlabeled Material in FORTIFIED | Español
2022-02 : FORTIFIED Roof Identification
2022-05 : Requirements for Re-Roofing Over Existing Self-Adhered Membranes | Español
2022-04 : Product Substitution Due to Supply Chain Issues and Product Availability | Español
2022 : IBHS Guidance : Choosing the Right Tape
2021-03 : Sealed Roof Deck for Wood Shake and Shingle Roof Systems | Español
2021-01 : PA – Vycor Product Advisory | Español
2015-04 : Sealed Roof Deck Supplemental Deck Attachment | Español
A Collection of Helpful Tools To Assist With a FORTIFIED Design
ASCE 7 Components & Cladding Wall Wind Pressure Calculator
Calculate components & cladding wall pressures for up to 50 openings. Easily order certified copies for review & permit.
View More →
FORTIFIED Roof Coverings Uplift Pressure Calculator
Calculate uplift forces on your roof covering This tool is provided by the Insurance Institute For Business And Home Safety (IBHS) as part of their ...
View More →
FORTIFIED Home Patio Column Uplift Calculator
Find The Uplift Force On Your Patio Column This tool is provided by the Insurance Institute For Business And Home Safety (IBHS) as part of ...
View More →
Rooftop Equipment Wind Pressure Calculator
Calculate mechanical rooftop equipment wind pressures & stand clearance heights for up to 5 units. Order certified copies for permit.
View More →
ASCE – Wind – Snow – Seismic Location Lookup Tool
ASCE Hazards Tool A quick way to look up key design parameters specified in ASCE standards. Results are provided for a site address for wind ...
View More →
5 False Wind Statements Debunked by an Expert Storm Engineer
I hear these silly things people say all the time about hurricanes. From conversations in line at the grocery store to people telling me how ...
View More →
Help To Guide You Through The FORTIFIED Process.
Technical Resources
Technical Documents assist the Design Professional in understanding and using the FORTIFIED standards in their project.
Technical Documents include:
- – Checklists
- – Calculators
- – Technical Bulletins
- – Modular Home Toolkit
- – Standard Details
- – Corrosion Resistance Maps
- – Compliance Forms
All projects permitted on or after November 1, 2025 must meet the requirements of the 2025 FORTIFIED Home™ Standard .
In locations where roof permits are not required, roofs installed on November 1, 2025, or later must meet these requirements.
Educational Videos
View dozens of educational videos such as how to install roofing materials, sheeting, understanding wind, and more.
Find a FORTIFIED Certified Provider
Use this location-based tool to location your FORTIFIED Installation Professional
Contractors - Architects - Inspectors - Get FORTIFIED Certified
Contractors - Get FORTIFIED Certified
Whether you’re an architect designing a new home, a contractor building a house, an inspector verifying compliance, an insurance agent providing coverage or an agency providing funding for construction – you can benefit from training offered by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) through FORTIFIED Wise University.
FORTIFIED Specific Articles
Gable End Bracing and the FORTIFIED Program
Gable End Bracing and the FORTIFIED Program Gable end walls are a well-documented weak point in high-wind events. When a gable end fails, wind and
Roof Deck Paver Systems on Pedestals: A Wind Uplift Design Overview
Pedestal-Supported Roof Paver Systems Roof paver systems installed on plastic pedestals are increasingly used to provide accessible walkways, terraces, and service areas on flat roofs.
Window and Door Shimming: Code Requirements and Engineering Reality
Window and Door Shimming: Code Requirements and Engineering Reality Improper shimming is a structural installation defect, not a cosmetic issue. It becomes most critical when
How To Submit A Request For An Engineering Evaluation of Doors and Other Openings For Certification
Determining Pressure Ratings For Doors (or Windows) With Alternate Components Exterior doors exposed to weather are approved to withstand design pressures for a variety of
Guide To Mechanical Unit Permits and Engineering Requirements In Florida & The US
Mechanical Equipment Design – A National Requirement Generally speaking, building codes are national in nature, but are adopted locally for unique geographic conditions. While national
The Ultimate Guide To Creating A Window – Door Retrofit Permit Package In South Florida & Beyond
How To Apply For A Retrofit Window-Door-Garage Door Permit In South Florida & Beyond Dade, Broward & Palm Beach Counties have adopted a unique set
What are The Span Limitations of Large Missile Impact Doors – Windows – Shutters?
Size Limitations For Impact Rated Products A Frequent question is what are the span, height, pressure, and installation limitations for large & small missile impact
Florida Product Approval and Miami Dade NOA Requirements
Florida Product Approval & Miami-Dade NOA : What You Need to Know Florida Building Code (FBC) vs International Building Code (IBC) Florida stands out as
Can an engineer design alternate anchorage for a Florida product approval or other product evaluation?
Can an engineer design alternate anchorage for a Florida product approval or other product evaluation? Say you have an evaluation report for a window or
General Engineering Articles
Protected: Calculating Site Specific Wall Wind Pressures For Windows, Doors, & Garage Doors
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
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Design of Padel and Outdoor Sports Courts in the United States Padel courts and outdoor sports facilities, while relatively simple
Engineering Tiki Huts in Florida: Tribal Exemption Limits and Code-Compliant Design
Engineering Tiki Huts in Florida: Tribal Exemption Limits and Code-Compliant Design Florida recognizes an exemption allowing Native American tribes—primarily the
Virtual inspections for PEs in U.S. buildings
Virtual inspections for PEs in U.S. buildings Virtual inspections moved from a pandemic workaround to a mainstream option in many
Understanding The Material Cost Saving of Using An Engineering Express Calculator
See this article to help illustrate the significant time and cost savings of accessing engineering through an Engineering Design-aid calculator
Window and Door Shimming: Code Requirements and Engineering Reality
Window and Door Shimming: Code Requirements and Engineering Reality Improper shimming is a structural installation defect, not a cosmetic issue.
Building Component Design Discovery Phase And The Following Engineering Process Explained
About Engineering Express’s Building Component Design Process Analyzing and engineering building products is complex — But it doesn’t have to
How To Submit A Request For An Engineering Evaluation of Doors and Other Openings For Certification
Determining Pressure Ratings For Doors (or Windows) With Alternate Components Exterior doors exposed to weather are approved to withstand design
Understanding the 3 Types of Glazing Supports
See this article for a breakdown of the three most common types of window / door / glazing support mullions
Glass Aspect Ratio Limitations in Florida’s High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ)
When A Glazed Opening Isn’t Exactly Square Often times a glazing product is approved for large missile impact, but requires
Understanding Fence Design: Key Considerations and Code Requirements
Fences – An Overview Fences serve multiple purposes, from enhancing privacy and security to defining property boundaries and improving aesthetics.
Guide To Mechanical Unit Permits and Engineering Requirements In Florida & The US
Mechanical Equipment Design – A National Requirement Generally speaking, building codes are national in nature, but are adopted locally for
The Ultimate Guide To Creating A Window – Door Retrofit Permit Package In South Florida & Beyond
How To Apply For A Retrofit Window-Door-Garage Door Permit In South Florida & Beyond Dade, Broward & Palm Beach Counties
How To Calculate Porosity of a Louver – Sign – Fence Per ASCE 7
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How To Determine Uplift Reactions For Canopies-Carports-Pergolas
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Whats the difference between the Miami Dade NOA Quality Assurance Date and the Building Code Expiration Date?
Learn How To Quickly Spot And Use QA Expiration & Code Dates On a Miami Dade NOA Why This Is
*** Find More Help With Product Approvals Here ***
Find more general help with Florida & Miami-Dade Product Approvals by visiting the support articles of EngineeringPlans.com. SEARCH PRODUCT APPROVALS
What’s the difference between ground and roof snow load for patio covers?
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Performance Limitations for Mechanical Equipment & TER Certifications
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About Door Product Pressure Ratings and Water Infiltration
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What are The Span Limitations of Large Missile Impact Doors – Windows – Shutters?
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Requirements of Substituting Glass Panels In Insulating Glass Systems
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Curious To Know What FORTIFIED Discounts Apply Where? Use This Guide
Note: This information was curated from AI February, 2026 and may not entirely be accurate today.
It is not provided nor endorsed by IBHS FORTIFIED and meant to be a discussion starting point only.
We encourage you to research for any updates & developments in your area prior to using this information in any way.
FORTIFIED Program – State & Insurance Participation Summary
State | Level of Adoption / Recognition | Insurance Participation | Notes / Program Structure |
|---|---|---|---|
Alabama | High / Formal | Multiple private carriers + regulatory requirements | Strengthen Alabama Homes uses FORTIFIED as the retrofit standard; insurers must offer FORTIFIED endorsements or discounts in coastal areas. |
Georgia | Moderate | Georgia Underwriting Association (GUA) | Discounts available for FORTIFIED construction; mainly wind-related. |
Mississippi | High / Formal | MWUA + private carriers | MWUA offers a FORTIFIED endorsement that can fund upgrades after a loss. |
North Carolina | Moderate–High | NCJUA + select private insurers | Free FORTIFIED endorsement tied to claims in some cases. |
South Carolina | Moderate | Multiple admitted insurers | Insurer discounts plus state tax incentives for mitigation features aligned with FORTIFIED. |
Oklahoma | Moderate | Select private insurers | Wind/hail mitigation discounts aligned with FORTIFIED standards. |
Florida | Indirect / Feature-Based | Many private insurers | FORTIFIED not always named, but wind-mitigation credits and grant programs closely align. NOTE ABOUT FLORIDA: In April, 2026, The FORTIFIED House Rating will be added to the state’s mandatory Wind Mitigation Form, paving the way for an increase in Florida FORTIFIED participation |
Louisiana | Moderate–High | Louisiana Citizens + private carriers | Tax deductions and insurance credits; increasing formal alignment with FORTIFIED. |
Texas | Indirect | TWIA + private insurers | Windstorm credits may apply where FORTIFIED elements are present. |
Connecticut | Indirect | Select private insurers | Impact-resistant features (part of FORTIFIED) qualify for discounts. |
New Jersey | Indirect | Select private insurers | Mitigation-based discounts overlap with FORTIFIED criteria. |
New York | Indirect | Select private insurers | Similar to NJ—feature-based rather than designation-based. |
Rhode Island | Indirect | Select private insurers | Coastal mitigation incentives align with FORTIFIED elements. |
Maryland | Indirect | Select private insurers | Wind/hail mitigation credits may apply. |
Insurance Companies Known to Work With or Support FORTIFIED
(Participation varies by state and policy form)
National / Large Carriers
State Farm
Allstate
USAA
Nationwide
Travelers
Liberty Mutual
Farmers
Progressive
Amica
Auto-Owners
American Family
State / Regional & Residual Market Entities
Alabama-based regional carriers
Mississippi Windstorm Underwriting Association (MWUA)
North Carolina Joint Underwriting Association (NCJUA)
Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corp.
Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA)
Farm Bureau–affiliated insurers (state-specific)
Insurance Companies and Organizations Associated With FORTIFIED
IBHS maintains a member database that includes insurers and industry partners that may participate in or support the FORTIFIED program in various ways (discounts, endorsements, underwriting resources). A sample of these (not a complete public list) includes:
Major Insurance Carriers / Groups
Allstate Insurance Group
American Family Insurance
Amica Mutual Insurance Company
Auto-Owners Insurance Group
Country Financial
CSAA Insurance Group
Farmers Insurance Group
Liberty Mutual Insurance
Nationwide Insurance
Progressive
State Farm Fire and Casualty Company
USAA
Travelers
Regional / Specialty Insurers
Alfa Insurance
Mississippi Windstorm Underwriting Association (MWUA) – known for a FORTIFIED endorsement.
North Carolina Joint Underwriting Association – free FORTIFIED endorsement post-loss in some contexts.
Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation
Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA)
Various Farm Bureau and FAIR Plan associations
(This list is drawn from IBHS’s FORTIFIED membership directory and reflects entities that support or can interact with the program; participation may vary by state and product.)
Important Notes on Coverage & Participation
Insurance incentives/discounts and endorsements vary significantly by state and insurer. Not all carriers in a given state will offer the same discounts or products tied to FORTIFIED designations; you must confirm with your agent.
Some states have regulatory requirements. For example, in Alabama and Louisiana, regulations or statutes may require admitted insurers to offer FORTIFIED endorsements or discounts.
Program adoption is linked to state mitigation programs. Many states that actively promote FORTIFIED also have public grant or retrofit programs that use FORTIFIED standards as eligibility criteria.
FORTIFIED Construction Grant Information
There isn’t a single nationwide FORTIFIED grant program directly run by IBHS that homeowners everywhere can apply to. However, multiple state or regional grant programs exist that use the IBHS FORTIFIED Home standards as part of their eligibility and funding criteria.
Here’s a summary of the largest, most publicized programs that homeowners can use to offset the cost of upgrading to a FORTIFIED-level roof or home.
Note: This information was curated from AI February, 2026 and may not entirely be accurate today.
It is not provided nor endorsed by IBHS FORTIFIED and meant to be a discussion starting point only.
We encourage you to research for any updates & developments in your area prior to using this information in any way.
Summary - See Detail & Links Below
Program | Typical Grant Cap | Notes |
|---|---|---|
FHLB Dallas FORTIFIED Fund | Up to $17,000 | Income-qualified; through financial institution. |
Strengthen Alabama Homes | Up to $10,000 | Covers mitigation work costs up to grant cap. |
Fortify Maine Home | Up to $15,000 | Higher amounts available for enhanced compliance. |
Strengthen Oklahoma Homes | Up to $10,000 | Per homeowner, first come / funded availability. |
South Carolina (SC) Safe Home | $5,000–$10,000 | Based on level of work and matches. |
Louisiana Fortify Homes | Up to $10,000 | Lottery or limited application rounds. |
1) FHLB Dallas FORTIFIED Fund Grants
Who is it for:
Income-qualified homeowners (through member financial institutions) who want a FORTIFIED Roof installed.
How it works
Grants are administered through member banks or credit unions — homeowners do not apply directly.
The home must be upgraded to the IBHS FORTIFIED Roof standard by a certified contractor and certified by a FORTIFIED evaluator.
Funding available (2026)
Up to $17,000 per household toward a FORTIFIED roof.
Amounts may vary depending on total project costs.
Applications are submitted by the financial institution, not the homeowner.
How to apply
Find a local FHLB Dallas member institution (bank, credit union).
Work with them to qualify and submit an application package.
Include income verification, cost estimates, evaluator documentation, etc.
Notes
Funds are usually first-come, first-served.
Projects must be fully documented before submission.
2) Strengthen Alabama Homes Program (SAH)
Where: Alabama (Mobile & Baldwin Counties)
What it does
Provides grants up to $10,000 to help retrofit owner-occupied primary homes to FORTIFIED standards.
The grant covers 100% of the cost of eligible mitigation up to $10,000; the homeowner pays overage.
How it works
Homeowners apply during open application periods announced quarterly.
Required: proof of residence, current homeowner insurance, FORTIFIED evaluation, and contractor bids.
After mitigation and FORTIFIED certification are complete, payment is made directly to the contractor.
How to apply
Register on the SAH website during an open grant period.
Submit required documentation and elect a certified evaluator.
Once approved, choose three qualified contractor bids.
Complete work and obtain FORTIFIED designation, then final payment is issued.
3) Fortify Maine Home Resiliency Roofing Grants
Where: Pilot areas in Maine (York, Cumberland, Kennebec, Penobscot)
Grant amounts
Up to $10,000 for standard FORTIFIED roof upgrades.
Up to $15,000 for enhanced FORTIFIED compliance.
Eligibility
Must own a qualifying home in one of the pilot counties.
Work must be performed by a participating FORTIFIED-certified contractor and verified.
How to apply
Complete the eligibility assessment online via the program portal.
Fill out and submit the application.
After evaluation, install the FORTIFIED roof and complete final inspection.
4) Strengthen Oklahoma Homes (OKReady)
Where: Oklahoma statewide
Grant features
Provides up to $10,000 per homeowner for FORTIFIED roof upgrades.
Paid directly to the contractor after certification and completed work.
Eligibility & how to apply
Apply through the Oklahoma Insurance Department’s SOH program once funds open.
Your home must meet the FORTIFIED Home Roof designation requirements.
Documentation and inspection verification are required before payment.
Other State or Local Programs (Examples)
SC Safe Home Grants Source Link (South Carolina): $5,000–$10,000 depending on FORTIFIED level and homeowner match.
Louisiana Fortify Homes Program: Source Link up to $10,000 grants with periodic application rounds, often using a lottery when funds are limited.
My Safe Florida Home: Source Link up to $10,000 per household for wind mitigation improvements that can include FORTIFIED roofs.
Additional Notes
Funding is Limited: Many programs run out of money quickly and operate on a first-come / first-served or lotterybasis.
Inspection Fees: Most programs do not cover evaluator fees, which are paid by the homeowner.
Insurance Incentives: After the FORTIFIED designation, homeowners may be able to use the certificate to seek insurance premium discounts.
Typical Steps to Qualify for a FORTIFIED-Linked Grant
Check Program Eligibility
Confirm location and whether the specific grant program covers your area.
Use a Certified FORTIFIED Evaluator
Homes usually must be evaluated / documented by an IBHS-recognized evaluator.
Choose a Certified Contractor
Contractors often must be certified under IBHS or specific program requirements.
Apply During Open Funding Windows
Many programs have limited funding and specific open application dates.
Complete Work & Verification
After installation to standards, final inspection and certification documentation is submitted.
Receive Grant Funds
Most programs pay directly to the contractor after verification.
Search Product Approvals To Use With Your FORTIFIED Design
Smart-Search All Florida, Miami-Dade, ICC, Intertek & other evaluation reports to create your perfect FORTIFIED design.
Download & Submit Approval Reports with your FORTIFIED Application – All for free.
* FORTIFIED also has a program for Commercial and Multi-Family construction not directly addressed in this FORTIFIED Home help site.
This help page is assembled by Engineering Express®, the leader in Building Product Engineering Design & can help with certifying alternate conditions for FORTIFIED Home, Commercial, & Multi-Family engineering as referenced herein across the US.
DISCLAIMER: This website and Engineering Express have no affiliation with the IBHS FORTIFIED Program. All information is our own opinion and shall be verified by a licensed design professional before permit or construction of any kind.