#United States #Malvern, Pennsylvania #CertainTeed #FORTIFIED #Roof Systems

CertainTeed Unveils FORTIFIED™ Roof Certification

In a significant step towards enhanced home resilience, CertainTeed®, a prominent North American manufacturer of sustainable construction materials, has announced a collaboration with the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS). This partnership aims to reinforce the durability and safety of homes against severe weather conditions through the introduction of the FORTIFIED™ Roof certification.

The FORTIFIED Roof program is nationally recognized for setting rigorous standards for roofing systems to withstand harsh weather events such as strong winds, hail, and torrential rains. By adhering to this certification, homeowners can ensure that their roofs go beyond basic building codes, thereby offering a robust defense against potential damages from extreme weather.

As part of this initiative, CertainTeed has launched two new products specifically designed to meet the demanding requirements of the FORTIFIED Roof program:

1. CertaSeam™ Roof Tape: This innovative roof deck joint tape is engineered to seal deck seams efficiently, preventing water infiltration during high-wind incidents. This essential component is critical for achieving the FORTIFIED Roof designation, allowing for greater peace of mind for homeowners.

2. SwiftStart® SA Starter Shingle: This self-adhering, waterproof starter shingle facilitates rapid installation processes while enhancing the roofing system's overall weather-tightness. Its unique design offers reliable protection against the elements, making it a valuable addition to the FORTIFIED Roof certification.

The collection of CertainTeed roofing products that meet the FORTIFIED Roof criteria encompasses a wide range of options, all designed to function synergistically. The comprehensive system includes:

• - Waterproofing Underlayments: Products like WinterGuard® PRO and Grace Vycor™ Ice and Water Shield® effectively shield against moisture ingress, especially in climates prone to snow and ice.
• - A Variety of Shingles: CertainTeed's shingles, including Landmark® and Presidential® Shake® IR, are engineered to meet the FORTIFIED Roof's high wind and hurricane conditions.
• - Ventilation Solutions: Proper attic ventilation is critical, and CertainTeed offers filtered and unfiltered ridge vents to assist in this requirement.

According to James White, Senior Product Manager for Residential Roofing at CertainTeed, “We are proud to align with IBHS FORTIFIED standards, ensuring our roofing systems deliver long-term durability and exceptional performance for homeowners.” This commitment highlights CertainTeed’s dedication to preventing storm-related damages and supporting homeowners in creating resilient living spaces.

Moreover, homeowners can benefit from various financial incentives when opting for FORTIFIED homes. Many states, including Alabama and Louisiana, offer discounts on insurance premiums and potential grants for qualifying upgrades. Beginning on November 1, 2025, installation contractors must possess FORTIFIED certification to perform eligible installations under approved programs.

Overall, the launch of the FORTIFIED Roof certification alongside CertainTeed's innovative products marks a progressive direction in the building materials sector, aiming to equip homes with the tools necessary for improved resilience against today's unpredictable weather patterns. For more information on CertainTeed’s extensive solutions and the FORTIFIED Roof program, interested parties are encouraged to visit CertainTeed's official website and FORTIFIEDHome.org.

About CertainTeed

CertainTeed, a subsidiary of Saint-Gobain, has established itself as a leader in sustainable construction solutions, contributing to innovative building practices that maximize energy efficiency. With over 60 manufacturing facilities across North America, CertainTeed is committed to improving how the world builds, enabling contractors and homeowners to create high-performance spaces that stand the test of time.