By Dani Sheehan. 

Take an inside look at the 2026 ORCA Annual Conference and Trade Show to better understand the conversations shaping Oklahoma roofing. 

The Oklahoma Roofing Contractors Association (ORCA) Annual Conference and Trade Show brought together contractors, industry leaders and policymakers that encouraged networking, advocacy and accountability this year. From legislative updates to a keynote panel featuring candidates for Oklahoma insurance commissioner, one message carried through: ORCA is making sure the roofing industry has a seat at the table. 

ORCA’s mission: Advocacy at the state level 

Executive Director Avery Smith opened the general session by reinforcing why this association exists in the first place, sharing its mission to represent contractors in regulatory and legislative conversations that directly impact their businesses. With ongoing efforts to build credibility at the state level, ORCA continues to strengthen relationships with key stakeholders, including the Oklahoma Insurance Department and lawmakers at the Capitol. As several speakers throughout the day noted, there is no shortage of activity in Oklahoma’s legislative landscape. 

Ashley Scott from the Oklahoma Insurance Department shared updates on initiatives aimed at strengthening the state’s housing stock and improving the insurance environment. A major focus is the expansion of the IBHS FORTIFIED Program, with a statewide rollout gaining momentum and efforts underway to remove the program’s sunset provision. A second wave of the program is expected to launch this spring. 

Additional legislative efforts highlighted were: 

• Omnibus insurance reform efforts aimed at improving response times and strengthening consumer protections 
• Enhancements to how insurance companies handle claims and communicate coverage 
• Continued work to improve transparency across the insurance process 

Legislative momentum and what it means for Oklahoma contractors 

Fred Jordan of Jordan Strategies provided a deeper look into the realities of Oklahoma’s legislative session amidst the four-month marathon shaped by shifting priorities and budget constraints. Despite funding challenges, several key bills are moving forward that could significantly impact contractors: 

• House Bill 1628 (a major ORCA win) is currently being implemented by the Construction Industries Board (CIB). By January 2027, contractors must be properly licensed and endorsed to perform work in the state. 
  • Contractors have until January 2028 to meet continuing education requirements or pass an exam. 
• House Bill 3800 aims to clean up the Roofing Registration Act and extend the implementation timeline of HB 1628. 
• House Bill 2933 proposes a major overhaul of property insurance plans, focusing on: 
  • Increased transparency in claims and coverage 
  • Stronger consumer protections 
  • More accessible mediation processes 
• Additional legislation, including Senate Bill 1590, could streamline endorsement requirements for commercial contractors. 

With insurance rates continuing to rise across Oklahoma, these legislative efforts are directly tied to how contractors operate, compete and serve their customers. To support contractors through these changes, ORCA is also working with Roof Rx University to develop continuing education opportunities, addressing a current gap in residential roofing resources. 

The keynote panel: A spotlight on insurance 

The keynote luncheon featured a panel discussion with the four candidates for Oklahoma insurance commissioners, including Chris Meredith, Marty Quinn, Greta Schuler and Bob Sullivan. 

While each candidate brought a unique perspective, the structure of the discussion and themes that emerged offered contractors valuable insights into how future leadership could shape the insurance landscape in the state. 

The panel focused on real-world challenges affecting contractors and homeowners alike, including: 

• What’s driving stress in Oklahoma’s insurance market? 
• Are coverage gaps leaving homeowners underinsured? 
• How should competing interests be balanced across the industry? 
• How can fraud be addressed consistently? 
• What role should the state play in improving building resilience? 

Across the discussion, candidates acknowledged that Oklahoma’s insurance market is under significant strain, driven by a combination of: 

• Rising premiums 
• Increasing deductibles 
• Narrower coverage 

This has led to what many described as a growing coverage gap, where homeowners are technically insured but can't afford to use their policies. For contractors, this can translate into delayed repairs, compounded damage and more complex projects. 

Trust, transparency and the role of the contractor 

One of the strongest themes to emerge was the need to restore trust in the insurance system. Candidates pointed to confusion around policy coverage, lack of communication when policies change and disputes during the claims process. In that context, contractors were consistently recognized as critical players in helping homeowners navigate the insurance process. There was clear agreement that roofing professionals must be part of the conversation when shaping solutions. 

Another key theme was the recognition that fraud exists across all sides of the industry, from contractors to carriers and everyone in between. Rather than isolating one group, the discussion emphasized the need for consistent enforcement, stronger penalties for bad actors and better resources for investigation and oversight to increase protection for reputable contractors, reinforcing the value of professionalism and compliance. 

Resilience as a strategy 

Looking ahead, candidates agreed that Oklahoma’s challenges are rooted in risk. With severe weather continuing to drive claims, there is growing emphasis on: 

• Stronger building practices 
• Impact-resistant materials 
• Programs like FORTIFIED 

As Oklahoma faces a pivotal political year with key races for insurance commissioner and attorney general, the conversations at ORCA’s trade show made one thing clear: the roofing industry is deeply connected to the decisions being made at the state level. 

Through advocacy, education and collaboration, ORCA is working to ensure contractors are not just affected by those decisions – but actively shaping them.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Understand FORTIFIED roof requirements and how GAF systems support stronger roof performance.

As extreme weather events continue to impact communities across the United States, the roofing industry is increasingly focused on building stronger and more resilient roof systems. One program leading this effort is the FORTIFIED Roof™ standard developed by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS). Designed to help protect homes from severe weather such as high winds hail and hurricanes, the FORTIFIED program provides a science-based construction and reroofing approach that improves roof durability and overall home resilience. 

GAF offers a range of roofing components that help contractors meet certain FORTIFIED Roof requirements. By combining tested installation practices with compatible roofing materials, contractors can deliver systems designed to better withstand the forces that often cause roof failure during major storms. Distribution partners like SRS, with branches across the country, also serve as valuable resources for contractors who want to learn more about the FORTIFIED system and how to properly source the products needed to meet the standard. 

The FORTIFIED program is based on decades of IBHS research studying how buildings perform in extreme weather. From that research IBHS developed a voluntary construction standard that strengthens the most vulnerable parts of a roofing system. The program includes several levels of designation with the FORTIFIED Roof designation serving as the first level focused specifically on roof performance. 

A key component of the FORTIFIED Roof standard is the sealed roof deck. This approach requires roof decks to be sealed in a specific way so water cannot easily penetrate the home if the roof covering is damaged or blown off during a storm. Sealing the deck provides an additional line of defense that helps reduce interior damage even if the outer roofing layer is compromised. 

Attachment strength is another critical factor. FORTIFIED Roof requirements call for enhanced fastening patterns using specific ring shank nails that help keep the roof deck attached to the framing during high wind events. This improved attachment method significantly increases the roof system’s ability to resist uplift forces created by severe storms. 

Edge protection also plays an important role. The FORTIFIED Roof standard emphasizes stronger roof edges through the use of properly installed drip edge materials and adhered starter strips. These components help reduce the likelihood of wind driven blow offs that often begin at the edges of a roof. 

Ventilation components must also meet higher performance levels. All ridge and off ridge roof vents installed in a FORTIFIED Roof system must be tested according to TAS 100 (A) standards to ensure they can withstand high wind conditions. 

In regions prone to hail damage homeowners may also choose to meet the optional Hail Supplement requirements. This includes installing impact resistant roof coverings that meet IBHS hail impact ratings of Good or Excellent. These products provide additional durability when severe hailstorms occur. 

To receive a FORTIFIED Roof designation the installation must be completed by a contractor who follows the applicable FORTIFIED standard and the roof must be verified by a certified FORTIFIED evaluator. Once verified the designation is awarded by IBHS and remains valid for five years before a renewal inspection is required. 

SRS and other distributors can also play a role in helping contractors access the information and materials needed to build to this higher standard. Through local branch teams contractors can learn about FORTIFIED requirements, identify compatible roofing components and better understand the process for becoming FORTIFIED certified. SRS helps encourage contractors to pursue FORTIFIED certification and supports them with the distribution expertise needed to successfully deliver these resilient roofing systems. 

For homeowners the benefits of a FORTIFIED Roof can extend beyond improved protection. In some states homes with this designation may qualify for insurance discounts grants or other financial incentives that reward resilience focused construction. 

Through partnerships between manufacturers, distributors and trained contractors, the roofing industry is helping make FORTIFIED Roof systems more accessible across the country. With support from companies such as GAF, contractors can provide homeowners with roofing systems designed to perform when severe weather strikes while helping communities become more resilient in the process. 

By Justin Ache, Gibraltar.

FORTIFIED™ roofing raises the standard with tougher materials, proven methods and real-world performance that helps roofers build stronger reputations and stronger roofs.

When a storm rolls in, homeowners count on their roof to hold the line. As roofers, we know that the roof is only as good as the materials and methods used to install it. That’s where the FORTIFIED™ program comes in. 

Developed by the non-profit Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), FORTIFIED is a voluntary construction standard designed to go beyond local building codes. Instead of meeting the minimum, it raises the bar by requiring tougher materials, proven installation techniques and performance testing that simulates severe weather. The goal is simple: reduce storm damage, cut down on costly repairs and provide long-term value for homeowners. 

What FORTIFIED means for roofers 

For contractors and installers, FORTIFIED is not just another certification program. It is a framework that can help: 

• Differentiate your work – Homeowners are becoming more aware of FORTIFIED standards and being able to say you install compliant products adds credibility. 
• Protect your reputation – Roofs that stand up to high winds and wind-driven rain mean fewer callbacks and warranty claims. 
• Support insurance savings – Many insurers offer premium discounts for FORTIFIED homes, giving you another selling point during bids. 
• Build resilience in your community – After major storms, FORTIFIED roofs are often the ones left intact, giving roofers a visible testament to their quality. 

The role of attic ventilation 

Attic ventilation products may not always be top-of-mind in storm prep, but they play a critical role in roof performance. Poorly sealed or under-tested vents are a common point of water entry when wind-driven rain pushes against the roofline. That is why products that meet or exceed the Miami-Dade TAS-100A 110 MPH wind-driven rain test are considered FORTIFIED-compliant. 

Whenever possible, it makes sense to choose FORTIFIED-compliant vents. They are widely available from most reputable distributors and provide an added layer of confidence that your roof system will perform when it matters most. 

AirVent offers a complete line of compliant options including ridge vents, static vents, turbines and off-ridge vents that meet these performance requirements. Having access to a full family of products means you can design an entire system around FORTIFIED standards rather than piecing together components from different sources. 

It is worth noting, however, that installing compliant vents alone does not make a roof or home FORTIFIED. The program requires a holistic approach, from decking and fasteners to shingles and flashing details. Roofers still need to do their due diligence in selecting the right materials and following the IBHS guidelines step by step. Compliant vents are one piece of the puzzle, but an important one. 

Why it matters 

The industry is shifting. More homeowners are asking about storm protection. More municipalities are encouraging or requiring resilient construction. And more insurance companies are rewarding it. Being familiar with FORTIFIED and choosing products that comply keeps you one step ahead. 

For more on the program itself, you can visit the IBHS FORTIFIED site to explore the full set of standards. 

Learn more about AirVent and Gibraltar Building Accessories in their Coffee Shop Directory or visit www.gibraltarbuildingproducts.com. 

About AirVent 

AirVent is part of the Gibraltar Building Accessories family, providing a complete line of residential attic ventilation products across the United States. As Gibraltar’s flagship ventilation brand, AirVent offers regional solutions tailored to contractors and homeowners alike, from ridge vents to static vents and more. Backed by Gibraltar’s nationwide network of trusted building product brands, AirVent combines innovation with reliability to help protect homes and extend roof life. 

By Gold Shield Exteriors.

For best protection, choose a trusted manufacturer, use SBS-modified options when possible and ensure professional installation. 

If you've shopped for roofing materials recently, you've probably seen claims about "Class 4 impact resistance" or "UL 2218 certified" shingles. Manufacturers promise these premium products will protect your home from hail damage, but do shingle hail-resistance ratings actually predict how your roof will perform in a real storm?

As contractors who have inspected hundreds of roofs after Pacific Northwest hail events, here is the honest breakdown of what the ratings get right, where they fall short and whether the upgrade is worthwhile for Vancouver homeowners.

What are shingle hail-resistance ratings?

Understanding UL 2218 and the class system

The most common hail-resistance standard is UL 2218, a steel ball drop test that assigns shingles a rating from Class 1 through Class 4.

To pass, shingles must show no visible cracking or fracturing after impacts in the same location.

In theory, Class 4 shingles should withstand severe hail. In practice, there are major limitations.

Lab testing versus real hailstorms

Problem 1: The test uses brand-new shingles

UL 2218 tests factory-fresh shingles. Real shingles experience:

• UV breakdown
• Granule loss
• Thermal cycling
• Weathering

According to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS) aging studies, the flexibility of impact-rated shingles decreases significantly over time. A Class 4 shingle can perform closer to Class 2 after 10 to 15 years.

Source: https://ibhs.org/hail/

Problem 2: Temperature has a huge influence

UL 2218 testing occurs at room temperature. Real hailstorms often hit when shingles are:

• Cold and brittle in early spring
• Soft and pliable in summer

IBHS data shows identical shingles perform very differently at different temperatures.

Problem 3: Steel balls are not ice

Steel balls are denser and smoother than real hailstones. Real hail is irregular and often spiked, concentrating force on small points. A jagged 1.5-inch hailstone can cause more damage than a smooth 2-inch sphere.

Problem 4: Installation quality matters

Even the best-rated shingle fails when installed poorly. Common issues include:

• Misplaced nails
• Inconsistent deck support
• Insufficient underlayment
• Poor sealing conditions

Partnering with trusted roofing contractors is just as important as choosing the right material.

Real-world factors that affect hail performance

Roof age and condition

Older shingles lose flexibility and impact strength. Even impact-rated roofs weaken over time.

Roof slope and orientation

• Steeper slopes deflect hail and reduce impact force
• Low-slope roofs take more perpendicular hits
• Wind direction influences which roof planes get damaged

Hail characteristics

Real hail varies dramatically in:

• Size
• Density
• Hardness
• Shape
• Wind-driven speed

Two storms with the same hail size can produce radically different damage.

Hidden pre-existing damage

Micro-fractures from previous storms weaken shingles even if the roof looks fine on the surface.

Which impact-resistant shingles perform best?

Look for SBS-modified asphalt

SBS polymer modification helps shingles stay flexible and absorb impact energy. Malarkey Roofing Products is one of the leading manufacturers using advanced SBS blends.

Source: https://www.malarkeyroofing.com/

Thickness and material density

Thicker shingles absorb more impact and protect the fiberglass mat from cracking.

Superior granule adhesion

Many hail claims begin with granule loss. Shingles with strong adhesion protect the asphalt layer longer.

Warranty strength

Manufacturers confident in their products offer clearer hail clauses. Always read the fine print.

Should Vancouver homeowners upgrade to impact-rated shingles?

The Pacific Northwest hail reality

Clark County does not experience the frequent, baseball-size hailstorms seen in Texas or Colorado. However, hail events here are increasing, and insurance hail claims have risen noticeably over the past decade.

Insurance discounts can make the math easy

Many carriers offer 5 to 25 percent annual discounts for verified Class 4 roofs. Over a 20-year lifespan, this can offset most of the added cost.

When it makes sense

Impact-resistant shingles are a smart upgrade if:

• You live in an exposed area with documented hail events
• Your insurance offers significant premium reductions
• You are already investing in a premium roofing system
• You want extra protection during unpredictable climate swings

When standard architectural shingles are enough

For typical Vancouver neighborhoods with limited hail risk, high-quality architectural shingles with strong wind ratings often provide sufficient protection.

The bottom line

Do hail-resistance ratings reflect real-world performance? Only partially. UL 2218 ratings offer a helpful baseline, but they do not account for:

• Real aging
• Temperature changes
• Installation quality
• Hail shape and density
• Prior roof wear

Think of the rating like a car’s EPA fuel estimate. It allows comparison, but your real results will vary.

For best protection, choose a trusted manufacturer, use SBS-modified options when possible and ensure professional installation. The National Roofing Contractors Association also recommends treating impact-resistant shingles as one part of a complete roofing system.

Source: https://www.nrca.net/

GAF is expanding the pool of roofing professionals equipped to make resilient FORTIFIED™ roofs more accessible to homeowners across the country.

GAF, a Standard Industries company and North America’s largest roofing manufacturer, is celebrating a major milestone in the company’s alliance with the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS). Since the first-of-its-kind alliance was announced earlier this year, GAF has trained more than 650 individuals from over 350 GAF Master Elite® companies to become FORTIFIED™ certified. The training equips contractors with the knowledge and hands-on skills needed to install roofs that can help better protect homes from severe weather events. Through this specialized training, GAF is expanding the pool of roofing professionals equipped to make resilient FORTIFIED™ roofs more accessible to homeowners across the country.

“We are excited to have added hundreds of GAF Master Elite contractors to the list of FORTIFIED roofing contractors who can now deliver roofs designed to be stronger and more durable against severe weather, helping communities across the country build resiliency,” said Mike Thomas, director, learning & development storm restoration at GAF. “By raising the bar for roofing standards and expanding access to IBHS’ FORTIFIED solutions, we’re proud to not only help families feel more secure in their homes but also drive meaningful progress across the roofing industry as a whole.”

Recent data shows homes with FORTIFIED roofs experienced a 73% reduction in claim frequency, a 15% reduction in claim severity and a 72% reduction in loss ratios compared with conventionally built homes, highlighting the growing demand for contractors trained in these critical techniques. As a part of its alliance with IBHS, GAF is leveraging its long-established CARE (Center for Advancement of Roofing Excellence) program to provide this specialized training that helps GAF Master Elite® Contractors meet the requirements to become FORTIFIED Certified Roofing Contractors with IBHS. 

“Through our alliance with GAF, the training and certification of roofing professionals in FORTIFIED standards have expanded significantly, transforming the landscape of resilient roofing and expanding access to FORTIFIED across the country,” said Fred Malik, managing director of FORTIFIED at IBHS. “This collaboration equips GAF Master Elite contractors to help homeowners protect their homes from severe weather, supporting stronger, safer communities.”

The training ensures contractors understand how to install a FORTIFIED Roof™, a national standard developed by IBHS to help protect homes against extreme weather. It establishes rigorous, above-code construction requirements to safeguard homes against hurricanes, high winds and storms.

For more information about the FORTIFIED Roof Program and GAF products, warranty and training, visit www.GAF.com/FORTIFIED.

About GAF

GAF, a Standard Industries company, is the leading roofing and waterproofing manufacturer in North America. For more than 135 years, GAF has been trusted to protect what matters most for families, business owners and roofing professionals with its innovative solutions and focus on exceptional service. GAF's leadership extends to its commitment to strengthen its communities and industry through investments in career development, sustainable products and local community resilience. Learn more at www.GAF.com.

About the IBHS

The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) is an independent, nonprofit, scientific research and communications organization supported solely by property insurers and reinsurers. IBHS’s building safety research leads to real-world solutions for home and business owners, helping to create more resilient communities. Learn more at ibhs.org.

About FORTIFIED

FORTIFIED is a voluntary construction and re-roofing program designed to strengthen homes against severe weather, including high winds, hurricanes and tornadoes. Visit fortifiedhome.org to learn more about the program, including the designation process.

By Emma Peterson.

This podcast from FORTIFIED by IBHS is a must-listen for anyone interested in the steps being taken to protect people and property from future natural disasters and hazards.

Every roof’s first and foremost job is to protect the building and inhabitants beneath from the elements. These can include everything from your common rain shower to disasters like hurricanes, hailstorms, tornadoes and wildfires. And as climate change continues to impact our planet, we have watched and experienced these types of disasters becoming more frequent and more devastating.  

While the effects of these disasters can be frightening – displacement of families, loss of financial stability and destruction of community – there are steps being taken to find better ways to protect people and property from these events. One such organization working towards this is the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS). They are a nonprofit scientific research and communications organization aiming to improve the built environment. As part of their work, they host a podcast called “Disaster Discussions” as part of their FORTIFIED program.  

Their most recent episode featured Research Project Scientist Jake Sorber for a discussion about hail’s impact as a loss driver across the United States. They also spoke about a significant hailstorm in Rock Hill, South Carolina as a case study and looked ahead to ICECHIP, the largest scientific field campaign in history devoted to studying hail.

There was also an episode recently that focused on the new Prepared Neighborhood technical standard. This is the first and only standard that came out of scientific research that aims to “reduce the probability of a built-environment conflagration in the neighborhoods where it is applied.” The episode gives unique insight into the science behind the standard’s four core principles thanks to Dr. Ian Giammanco, IBHS managing director of standards and data analytics and lead research meteorologist, and Evan Sluder, an IBHS research project engineer.

You can tune into the podcast on any of your normal streaming services or on the IBHS website!

Whether building new, re-roofing or retrofitting, the FORTIFIED Roof standard helps ensure homes are better protected against both everyday weather and extreme storms.

CertainTeed®, a leading North American manufacturer of sustainable building materials, has announced a new collaborative effort with the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), reinforcing its commitment to resilient and durable construction. As a result of this initiative, CertainTeed now offers a complete roofing system that meets the rigorous standards of the IBHS FORTIFIED™ Roof program.

FORTIFIED Roof is a nationally recognized standard designed to strengthen homes against severe weather, including high winds, hail and heavy rains and goes beyond typical building codes, providing a unified system of products and installation methods proven to increase a home's resilience and reduce potential damage.

As part of its commitment to innovation and home resilience, CertainTeed is also introducing two new roofing components engineered to meet FORTIFIED Roof standards:

• CertaSeam™ Roof Tape: A roof deck joint tape designed to seal deck seams and prevent water intrusion during high-wind events. This critical component plays a key role in a FORTIFIED Roof designation.
• SwiftStart® SA Starter Shingle: A self-adhering, water-resistant rolled starter that offers fast installation and dependable protection. It enhances the overall weather-tight integrity of CertainTeed's roofing systems.

A broad range of CertainTeed roofing products meet the FORTIFIED Roof criteria. Each component is engineered to work together, providing a layered defense and high-performance protection in any climate. This comprehensive system includes the newly introduced CertaSeam™ Roof Tape for sealing roof deck joints, along with a variety of waterproofing underlayments such as WinterGuard® PRO, WinterGuard® Sand/Granular and water-resistant options like Grace Vycor™ Ice and Water Shield®, Grace Vycor™ Ice and Water Shield® HT, RoofRunner® and DiamondDeck®. To ensure optimal edge protection, the SwiftStart® SA Starter Shingle adds another layer of defense.

A range of shingles can be used to meet the FORTIFIED Roof Hurricane or High Wind criteria as well, including Landmark® TL, Landmark® TL Solaris®, Landmark® Premium, Landmark® PRO, Landmark®, Belmont® IR, Grand Manor®, Carriage House® and Presidential® Shake® IR. The Landmark® ClimateFlex®, NorthGate® ClimateFlex® meet the criteria for an additional Hail supplement to a FORTIFIED designation. For proper attic ventilation, CertainTeed offers 12" filtered and unfiltered ridge vents, as well as rolled ridge vents. To complete the system, compatible hip and ridge caps such as Shangle® Ridge, Shadow Ridge ClimateFlex® and Cedar Crest® IR help ensure lasting performance and resilience.

"CertainTeed is proud to align with the IBHS FORTIFIED standards, ensuring our roofing systems deliver long-term durability and unmatched performance for all homeowners," said James White, Senior Product Manager, Residential Roofing at CertainTeed. "Our expanding portfolio of FORTIFIED-compliant products reflects our commitment to preventing avoidable storm-related losses and supporting homeowners in building more resilient homes to achieve our goal of making the world a better home."

FORTIFIED homes are scientifically proven to be more resilient than those built to standard codes. In addition to peace of mind, homeowners in more than a dozen states may also benefit from financial incentives, including insurance discounts, grants and tax credits. These benefits are currently available in Alabama, Louisiana, North Carolina, Oklahoma and Mississippi. In other states — including Connecticut, Florida, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Texas — similar incentives may be available for homes with qualifying upgrades. Beginning November 1, 2025, contractors must be FORTIFIED Certified to complete eligible installations in participating programs.

Whether building new, re-roofing or retrofitting, the FORTIFIED Roof standard helps ensure homes are better protected against both everyday weather and extreme storms. CertainTeed's high-performance products make it easier for contractors and homeowners to meet these standards and build stronger, safer homes.

Please visit www.certainteed.com to learn more about CertainTeed's industry-leading solutions. For more information on IBHS FORTIFIED Roof, please visit FORTIFIEDHome.org.

About CertainTeed

With innovative building solutions made possible through its comprehensive offering of interior and exterior products, CertainTeed is transforming how the industry builds. As leaders in building science and sustainable construction, CertainTeed makes it easier than ever to create high-performance, energy-efficient places to live, work and play, so that together we can make the world a better home.  

A subsidiary of Saint-Gobain, one of the world's largest and oldest building products companies, CertainTeed has more than 6,900 employees and more than 60 manufacturing facilities throughout the United States and Canada. www.certainteed.com   

About Saint-Gobain

Worldwide leader in light and sustainable construction, Saint-Gobain designs, manufactures and distributes materials and services for the construction and industrial markets. Its integrated solutions for the renovation of public and private buildings, light construction and the decarbonization of construction and industry are developed through a continuous innovation process and provide sustainability and performance. The Group, celebrating its 360th anniversary in 2025, remains more committed than ever to its purpose "MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER HOME".
€46.6 billion in sales in 2024
More than 161,000 employees, locations in 80 countries
Committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050

About FORTIFIED

FORTIFIED is a voluntary resilient construction and re-roofing program developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety to strengthen homes and businesses against severe weather, including high winds, hurricanes and tornadoes. Visit fortified.org to learn more about the program, including the designation process.

High-performance roofing solutions now support resilience-focused construction nationwide.

Polyglass U.S.A., Inc., a leading manufacturer of roofing and waterproofing systems, is proud to announce that its roofing systems are now compliant with the FORTIFIED Roof™ standard, developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS). FORTIFIED Roof is a national benchmark for storm-ready construction, designed to help buildings better withstand severe weather including high winds, hail and heavy rain.

Polyglass underlayments and self-adhered membranes now qualify for use in FORTIFIED Roof projects, enabling contractors, developers, municipalities and homeowners to access trusted, high-performance materials that support resilient construction practices and exceed traditional code requirements.

Polyglass remains committed to smarter, stronger and more sustainable roofing solutions. This milestone reflects that ongoing commitment by delivering products that comply with the rigorous performance standards of the FORTIFIED Roof program and help protect communities across the country.

Supporting storm-resistant construction nationwide

Developed by IBHS, the FORTIFIED Roof program promotes best-in-class construction practices that go beyond local codes, delivering verified protection through a set of enhanced standards. Polyglass roofing systems contribute to these standards by providing:

• High wind resistance through durable self-adhered membranes
• Moisture protection via superior sealing performance
• Long-lasting durability proven to outperform conventional roofing assemblies

This compliance represents a meaningful alignment between IBHS’s building science expertise and Polyglass’ advanced roofing technologies. It also supports contractors seeking to grow their resilience-focused offerings and provides tools to help educate clients on the benefits of storm-ready building solutions.

Compliant Polyglass products for a FORTIFIED Roof

Products qualified for use as a component of a FORTIFIED Roof include a wide range of self-adhered underlayments and anchor sheets:

• Self-adhered membranes: Polystick® IR-Xe, Polystick® TU P, Polystick® TU MAX, Polystick® TU Plus, Polystick® P, Polystick® MTS Plus, Polystick® MX, Polystrip™ SA
• Anchor sheets: Polyanchor® HV, Polyanchor® SU
• Fire-rated options: Polystick® XFR, Polyanchor® XFR, Polyflex® SA P FR, Elastoflex SA V FR

Disclaimer: Products listed above may be used as part of a FORTIFIED Roof. Additional installation requirements, eligibility criteria and limitations apply. For full details, visit FORTIFIEDHome.org.

Advancing roofing resilience and innovation

As extreme weather events continue to challenge communities nationwide, Polyglass remains dedicated to providing high-performance solutions that promote safety, longevity and resilience in the built environment.

Contact Polyglass to learn more about their innovative roofing and waterproofing products.

About Polyglass U.S.A., Inc.

Polyglass U.S.A., Inc. is a leading manufacturer of roofing and waterproofing systems. Known for its self-adhered modified bitumen roofing systems based on the company’s patented ADESO® Technology and CURE Technology®, Polyglass also produces a full line of premium roof coatings and roof maintenance systems. An ISO 9001:2015 certified company, Polyglass provides quality products and adds value through innovation. For more information about the premium products and services offered by Polyglass, call 800.222.9782 or visit polyglass.us.

During National Snow Guards Safety Month messages of safe installation practices and the need for snow guards are being shared nationwide.

Throughout the month of March, the roofing industry is placing extra attention on the value and safety associated with snow guards.

Expert safety support

Snow guards are sturdy pieces designed to be attached to a roof, usually in specific patterns, to help prevent snow from sliding down in a “snow blanket” as the snow melts. The snow guards can be made of plastic, metal, copper, aluminum or even rubber. They can be attached at the time a roof is installed or retrofitted years after the roof is in place.

The experts at Rocky Mountain Snow Guards create plans for placement of where snow guards should be installed on a roof. They take into consideration the areas with the most potential exposure where people least wish to see snow drop off in large masses, such as door entryways, driveways, walkways and decks. And they use scientific configurations related to the roof slope, roof snow load and other factors. Even the type of materials on the roof (such as asphalt, composite, metal or slate roofing) factor into the calculations.

“We work directly with roofing contractors, builders and homeowners to create a specific layout resulting in safe snow retention,” says Lars Walberg, president of Rocky Mountain Snow Guards. “The free layout and quote service we provide takes individual roof specifications and returns the ideal layout for a snow retention system. The result is a configuration of specific products that allow the snow to melt slowly off the roof rather than being released in large, dangerous chunks.”

Help for the home

According to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety®, installing snow guards or snow cleats is one of the top ways to upgrade a home and make it “winter ready.” Some manufacturers, like DaVinci® Roofscapes, offer specific advice about adding snow guards to their slick composite slate and shake shingles to create a safer home environment. (See “Tips for Getting Your Roof Ready for Winter Weather.”)

Drexel Metals addresses the same issue of their slippery metal roofing surfaces needing snow guard support in their story, “Is Your Metal Roof Ready for Winter: 5 Tips to Prep for the Cold.” The story “Soldier Rows of Snow Guards Help with Snow Retention” on AskARoofer.com explains that when placed 12 inches apart horizontally in rows on a roof, snow guards act like a barrier to snow, keeping it safely on the roof.

Companies and organizations sharing information on National Snow Guards Safety Month so far in March include:

• National Women in Roofing
• RoofersCoffeeShop
• MetalCoffeeShop
• AskARoofer
• Rocky Mountain Snow Guards
• DaVinci Roofscapes
• Turner Morris Inc.
• Metal Roofing magazine
• Roofing magazine
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A Snow Retention FAQ and full product offering summary are available from Rocky Mountain Snow Guard to provide homeowners with more detailed information about snow retention systems. For specific questions on snow guards, call 877-414-7606.

About Rocky Mountain Snow Guards

Rocky Mountain Snow Guards, Inc. manufactures snow guards and fence-style snow retention systems designed to protect people and property. The company provides free shipping of products to the 48 contiguous United States and offers free layouts and quotes for product placement. Metal products are warrantied for 50 years. Proud Corporate Partner of Freedom Service Dogs and founder of National Snow Guards Safety Month. For details visit www.rockymountainsnowguards.com or call 1-877-414-7606.

Expanded product offerings, newly-created training program and industry-leading warranty from GAF to help at-risk communities build resilience against weather-related disasters.

GAF, a Standard Industries company and North America's largest roofing and waterproofing manufacturer, and the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), an independent, nonprofit, scientific research and communications organization, today announced an alliance to make resilient FORTIFIED™ roofs more accessible to homeowners across the country. GAF provides a variety of roofing products that comply with IBHS's FORTIFIED Roof™ standards and is deploying critical training expertise and capabilities to help contractors identify those products and learn about FORTIFIED installation methods that help homes withstand weather events.

Based on decades of research by IBHS, FORTIFIED is a voluntary beyond-code construction and re-roofing method to help protect homes against hurricanes, severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. In some states, homeowners with a FORTIFIED Roof designation may be eligible for insurance discounts, grants or other incentives.

Severe weather continues to threaten communities across the United States. In 2024, there were 24 weather-related disasters in the U.S. costing at least $1 billion in damages, leading to millions of displaced Americans.

"It takes one storm to destroy a home and drastically alter lives," said Roy Wright, president and CEO of IBHS. "Yet, more than 70,000 families across 31 states have turned to FORTIFIED to reduce this risk by enhancing their homes' protection against severe weather. GAF's training expertise and the extensive network of roofing contractors in its certification program will help bring FORTIFIED roofs to even more homeowners in regions of the country facing increasing threats from wind, rain and hail."

"At GAF, we are committed to providing high-quality products and services that help safeguard homes before and after disasters strike," said John Altmeyer, CEO of GAF. "We look forward to working closely with IBHS to provide access to FORTIFIED-compliant products and industry-leading GAF training to help communities across the country build resiliency and protect what matters most to them."

GAF is deploying the long-established training expertise of its national CARE (Center for Advancement of Roofing Excellence) program to deliver dedicated training to help GAF Master Elite® Contractors meet the requirements to become FORTIFIED Certified Roofing Contractors.

"This alliance between IBHS and GAF helps to build an elite pipeline of qualified roofers to provide FORTIFIED Roofs to homeowners looking to increase the durability of their home, which lowers the risk of storm damage and reduces the likelihood of being displaced by a storm," said Fred Malik, managing director of FORTIFIED at IBHS.

Homeowners who have a designated FORTIFIED Roof installed by a GAF Master Elite® Roofing Contractor and purchase a Golden Pledge® Limited Warranty are eligible for additional benefits provided by the FORTIFIED Addendum to the Golden Pledge Limited Warranty. Through the alliance with IBHS, contractors and homeowners will now be able to more easily recognize the portfolio of high-quality GAF products that comply with the requirements of the FORTIFIED Roof standard, some of which include: WeatherWatch® Ice & Water Leak Barrier and StormGuard® Film-Surfaced Leak Barrier; QuickStart® Peel & Stick Starter Roll; FeltBuster® Synthetic Roofing Felt, TigerPaw™ Premium Roof Deck Protection and Deck-Armor™ Premium Breathable Roof Deck Protection; GAF Roof Deck Seam Tape; and Timberline HDZ®, Timberline UHDZ® and Timberline® AS II Shingles which rank highly on the rigorous IBHS Impact Shingle Ratings.

For more information about the FORTIFIED Roof Program and GAF products, warranty and training, visit www.GAF.com/FORTIFIED.

About GAF

GAF, a Standard Industries company, is the leading roofing and waterproofing manufacturer in North America. For more than 135 years, GAF has been trusted to protect what matters most for families, communities and business owners with its innovative solutions and focus on customer service. GAF's leadership extends to its commitment to making a positive impact on its communities, industry, and planet. Learn more at www.GAF.com. 

About the IBHS

The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) is an independent, nonprofit, scientific research and communications organization supported solely by property insurers and reinsurers. IBHS's building safety research leads to real-world solutions for home and business owners, helping to create more resilient communities. Learn more at ibhs.org. 

About FORTIFIED

FORTIFIED is a voluntary construction and re-roofing program designed to strengthen homes against severe weather, including high winds, hurricanes and tornadoes. Visit fortifiedhome.org to learn more about the program, including the designation process.