The FORTIFIED Factor

Checklist Review Part 2: Silver & Gold

In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, the AI Experts informed by Knockout Inspections continue their deep dive into the FORTIFIED documentation checklists by breaking down the final steps required for FORTIFIED Silver and FORTIFIED Gold designations. Using the final three pages of the official checklist documentation, this episode explains what homeowners, contractors, and evaluators need to know about impact protection, garage doors, soffits, attached structures, continuous load paths, and the critical engineering requirements that separate Silver and Gold homes from the rest.  Listeners will learn: *  What upgrades are required beyond a FORTIFIED Roof  *  Why garage doors and gable end bracing matter during hurricanes  *  How attached structures like porches and carports can affect designation eligibility  *  The importance of continuous load path connections in FORTIFIED Gold homes  *  Common disqualifiers that can prevent a home from earning Silver or Gold  *  How proper documentation and compliance forms are essential to certification  This episode simplifies some of the most technical sections of the FORTIFIED standard and helps homeowners better understand how resilient construction techniques can reduce storm damage and strengthen long-term home performance. Whether you're pursuing a FORTIFIED designation, preparing for a reroof project, or simply want to make your home more severe-weather ready, this episode provides practical insight into what it really takes to build resilience from the roof all the way down to the foundation. Have questions about your home or the FORTIFIED program? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com to learn more.

Checklist Review Part 1: Roof

In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, the AI Experts informed by Knockout Inspections break down the first section of the 2025 FORTIFIED Home™ Re-Roofing Checklist: the roof itself. From roof deck attachment and underlayment options to flashing, drip edge installation, and high-wind shingle requirements, this episode walks homeowners and contractors through the critical components that help create a stronger, more resilient roof system. Whether you’re planning a roof replacement, researching insurance discounts, or simply wanting to better protect your home from severe weather, this episode provides a practical overview of what it takes to meet the FORTIFIED Roof standard. The discussion also highlights the importance of working with a certified FORTIFIED Evaluator and understanding how proper installation details can dramatically improve roof performance during hurricanes and severe storms. Topics covered include: *  Roof deck nailing requirements  *  Sealed roof deck options  *  Drip edge and flashing installation  *  High-wind asphalt shingle standards  *  Hail-resistant roofing considerations  *  Vent and accessory requirements  *  Why documentation matters for certification  This episode references the IBHS 2025 FORTIFIED Home™ Re-Roofing Checklist. [https://fortifiedhome.org/wp-content/uploads/2025-FH-Roofing-Checklist-1.pdf]  Have questions about your roof or the FORTIFIED program? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com to learn more.

Flashing Guidelines for Steep-Sloped Roofs

In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, the AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) break down flashing guidelines for steep-sloped roofs—one of the most critical (and often overlooked) components of a resilient roofing system. Flashing plays a vital role in protecting your home from water intrusion at vulnerable like roof edges, valleys, penetrations, and wall intersections. When installed correctly, it helps prevent moisture from entering the roof system and causing costly damage.  We explore key best practices from FORTIFIED standards, including: *  Why corrosion-resistant metal flashing is essential for long-term durability  *  Proper fastener spacing (typically 6” on center, or tighter in hurricane-prone areas) *  How to correctly install base flashing and counter-flashing for maximum water-shedding performance  *  The importance of sealing, overlaps, and integration with underlayment systems *  Real-world application insights from detailed FORTIFIED roof deck designs, including flashing tape at seams and proper layering techniques  Whether you're a homeowner, contractor, or simply looking to better understand how to protect your home from severe weather, this episode delivers practical, standards-backed guidance you can trust. 📞 Have questions about your roof or FORTIFIED standards? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com to learn more.

The 2025 Roof Repair Checklist

When your FORTIFIED roof is damaged, the repair process isn’t just about fixing shingles—it’s about protecting your designation and your home’s future performance. In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) break down the 2025 FORTIFIED Roof Repair Checklist and what’s changed, what matters most, and what homeowners need to get right the first time. Based on the official checklist , we walk through the critical steps required to stay compliant—from documenting the full scope of damage with site-specific photos to verifying structural integrity, roof deck thickness, and proper attachment methods. You’ll learn why sealed roof deck (SRD) repairs, drip edge replacement, and flashing details are essential to maintaining your home’s storm resistance. We also highlight: *  Why documentation with geolocation and clarity is mandatory (not optional)  *  When a FORTIFIED Evaluator or engineer must be involved *  Key requirements for roof coverings, vents, and impact-rated materials *  Special considerations for hail, hurricane, and solar (PV) systems *  The importance of the final signed Confirmation of Completion for IBHS approval  The biggest takeaway? Even small repairs must follow strict standards—or you risk losing your FORTIFIED status. If you want your home to remain resilient against hurricanes, hail, and high winds, this episode gives you the step-by-step insight you need to navigate repairs with confidence. 📞 Have questions about your roof or repairs? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com to connect with a team of certified FORTIFIED Evaluators.

Supplemental Spray Foam Attachment Requirements

In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, the AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) break down one of the most practical and often misunderstood upgrades in the FORTIFIED Roof™ standard: supplemental spray foam deck attachment. Using guidance from the latest FORTIFIED Engineering Standard (FH 2015-04), we explore how two-part closed-cell spray polyurethane foam adhesive can strengthen your roof from the inside out—without needing a full roof replacement.  You’ll learn: *  How spray foam can simultaneously seal your roof deck AND improve uplift resistance *  When this method is appropriate (and when it’s not)  *  The minimum uplift pressure requirements (110 psf and beyond) for compliance  *  Why proper installation and documentation are critical for FORTIFIED certification  *  Common attic access challenges that could impact eligibility  This episode is a must-listen for homeowners, inspectors, and contractors looking to enhance roof performance—especially in hurricane- and high-wind-prone areas—without tearing off existing roofing materials. If you’ve ever wondered how to upgrade your home’s resilience from the attic, this episode gives you the clarity you need. 📞 Have questions about your home or a FORTIFIED upgrade? Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com to connect with a certified FORTIFIED Evaluator today.