The FORTIFIED Factor

Do you really need the most expensive, highest-rated shingle to earn a FORTIFIED Roof™ certification?

In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, our AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) bust one of the biggest myths in roofing — that Class 4 impact-rated shingles are a requirement for a FORTIFIED Roof. Spoiler: they’re not!

You’ll learn:

In this forward-looking episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, our AI Experts—powered by Knockout Inspections—explore what’s next for the FORTIFIED home movement. From self-healing concrete and hurricane-resistant composites to AI-driven home monitoring systems, we dive into emerging materials and technologies that could redefine how we build resilience into our homes.

Discover how innovation in construction science, climate adaptation, and smart-home technology could soon transform the way homes are protected against severe weather. Whether you’re a homeowner, builder, or inspector, this episode offers a glimpse into the next generation of FORTIFIED design.

🏠 Learn how the fut...

Keeping your home resilient, reliable, and severe-weather ready starts with proactive care! In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, our AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) walk you through the essential annual maintenance checklist every FORTIFIED homeowner should follow.

Whether you’re a new homeowner or have lived in your FORTIFIED home for years, this checklist will help you stay storm-strong and inspection-ready all year long.

📞 Have questions about maintaining your FORTIFIED home or scheduling an official inspection?
 Contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO (855-463-6756) or visit fortifiedhome.com.

In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, our AI Experts — informed by the team at Knockout Inspections — unpack two of the most important systems working quietly above your head: roof penetrations and ventilation.

From the way vents, pipes, and flashing are sealed, to how air moves through your attic, every detail plays a role in how well your roof performs — especially during severe weather. We’ll explain how proper installation and balanced ventilation can prevent leaks, reduce energy costs, and extend the life of your roof, all while helping your home meet FORTIFIED Home™ standards for resilience.

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Ever wondered why roof fastening patterns matter so much when it comes to protecting your home from severe weather? In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, we’re diving deep into the world of metal roof fastening zones and patterns — a crucial part of achieving a FORTIFIED Roof™ that stands strong against high winds and heavy storms.

Our "AI experts" (informed by Knockout Inspections) break down how different fastening zones are designed, why proper installation is key to performance, and what homeowners need to know to make sure their roof meets or exceeds FORTIFIED Home™ standards.

In this episode, learn how a Gold FORTIFIED Home is one continuously strong structure — from the roof all the way down to the foundation.

For any questions following this episode, contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit fortifiedhome.com.

We're continuing in our two-part series on retrofitting existing homes to the FORTIFIED Standard. In this 9-minute episode, we're discussing what it takes for a previously built home to earn a Gold FORTIFIED designation status... Spoiler alert: it's a lot of work!

For any questions following this episode, reach out to Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO, or visit fortifiedhome.com.

Can you make an existing home more resilient to severe weather events? The answer is "yes!" In this episode, we discuss the procedures of retrofitting a previously built home with the purpose of receiving a FORTIFIED Roof or Silver designation.

For any questions following the episode, please reach out to Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit fortifiedhome.com.

In Part 2 of our FORTIFIED Resilience series, we dive into how evaluators verify and validate a home’s continuous load path — the crucial process that ensures every connection in the structure is tied together to stand up to high winds. We’ll explain what evaluators look for, why it matters for homeowners, and how this step helps guarantee a stronger, safer home.

For any questions following this episode, call Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit fortifiedhome.com.

In this episode, our AI moderators break down the backbone of the FORTIFIED Gold Standard: the continuous load path. Learn how specific materials and construction techniques work together to help these homes stand strong against severe weather.

If you have questions after listening—or want to learn how FORTIFIED can strengthen your home—reach out to Knockout Inspections for expert guidance at 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit fortifiedhome.com.

Think FORTIFIED Standards are the same everywhere? Not quite! Depending on where you live, your home’s requirements change to match your region’s biggest wind threats. In this quick episode, we’ll unpack what makes the Hurricane Zone different from the High Wind Zone—and why it matters for your home.

For any questions following this episode, contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit fortifiedhome.com.

Starting a FORTIFIED project and not sure where to begin? Have no fear! IBHS provides a directory of professionals who are certified in FORTIFIED services - including roofers, builders, engineers and evaluators. In this episode, we'll discuss how to use this tool to find the right experts for your project.

For any questions following this episode, contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit fortifiedhome.com.

Tune into this episode of "The FORTIFIED Factor" to learn about the roofing roadmaps developed by IBHS to identify key components of a roof and how they should be constructed in order to achieve the FORTIFIED Roof Standard.

For any questions following this episode, please call Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit fortifiedhome.com.

In this episode, we dive into the groundbreaking research from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) on wind-driven rain — a powerful but often underestimated force in severe storms. Join us as we explore how IBHS scientists simulate hurricane conditions in their state-of-the-art lab to better understand how rain penetrates buildings during high-wind events. You'll hear how this research directly influences FORTIFIED Home™ standards, improves building practices, and helps homeowners strengthen their defenses against costly water damage.

For any questions following this episode, please call Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit fortifiedhome.com.

Did you know a #FORTIFIEDRoof is a roof that's more resilient against hail damage?

In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, we take you behind the scenes at the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) to explore how asphalt shingles—the most common roofing material in the U.S.—are put to the test against hail. Whether you're a roofer, homeowner, or inspector, this deep dive into hail impact testing will give you a new appreciation for science-backed protection.

For questions following this episode, contact Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO or fortifiedhome.com.

Did you know that commercial buildings can be built or retrofitted to FORTIFIED standards? In this episode, we learn how the residential construction methods are modified and applied to a different kind of development.

For any questions following this episode, give Knockout Inspections a call at 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit fortifiedhome.com.

When the FORTIFIED Home Program first began, the three tiers of designations were known as Bronze, Silver and Gold. But in 2019, IBHS changed Bronze to "Roof." Want to know why? Take a listen to this quick 5-minute episode of The FORTIFIED Factor Podcast and find out!

If you have any questions following this episode, give Knockout Inspections a call at 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit fortifiedhome.com.

What can keep your home in one piece when severe weather strikes? In this episode, our AI hosts discuss what makes FORTIFIED Gold the true "gold standard" of home construction when severe weather is a regular reality.

For any questions following the episode, visit fortifiedhome.com or call 855-GO-FOR-KO.

Is your chimney braced properly to withstand severe storms and high winds? In this episode, our AI hosts are checking out facets of the FORTIFIED Silver that make homes more resilient to hurricane and tornado-force winds. We're moving beyond the roof to examine home elements like gables, soffits, windows and more.

For any questions following the episode, visit fortifiedhome.com or call 855-GO-FOR-KO.

In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, we’re shining a spotlight on the Strengthen Mississippi Homes program — a game-changing grant initiative helping homeowners across the Magnolia State upgrade to a FORTIFIED Roof. Join us as we break down how the program works, who qualifies, and what makes a FORTIFIED Roof so essential in protecting homes from hurricanes and severe weather. For questions following the episode, contact the Strengthen Mississippi Homes program by calling 1-800-562-2957 or by emailing the program at smh@mid.ms.gov. 

In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor Podcast, we break down design pressure ratings and their crucial role in building resilient, FORTIFIED homes. Understanding how windows, doors, roofs and other structural components are rated for wind and pressure resistance can make all the difference when preparing for severe weather.

Have questions after listening? Knockout Inspections is here to help! Contact us at 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit GoForKO.com for expert guidance on building stronger, safer homes.

Don’t forget to subscribe and stay FORTIFIED! 🔨🏡

In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor, we dive into the world of ASTM impact ratings and missile levels—key factors in building resilience against severe weather. We’ll break down what these ratings mean, how they’re tested, and why they matter for FORTIFIED homes and beyond. Whether you're a builder, inspector, or homeowner, understanding impact resistance is crucial for stronger, safer structures. Tune in to learn how these standards help protect homes from flying debris and extreme conditions!

Following our previous episode on ASCE 7 Standards, this episode covers the recent editions to ASCE 7 and how FORTIFIED Home Standards intersect. Together, these designs are strengthening homes nationwide! 

To learn more about ASCE 7, visit asce.org. For questions about FORTIFIED, give Knockout Inspections a call at 855-GO-FOR-KO, or visit fortifiedhome.com.

Get ready to geek out over building codes! This episode is a deep dive into ASCE 7 - the nationally adopted loading standard for general structural design. More information on this subject can be found at asce.org.

As always, if you have questions following this episode, give Knockout Inspections a call at 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit fortifiedhome.com.

Take a deep dive into all the details of the 2025 FORTIFIED Standard at each level: Roof, Silver and Gold. Knockout Inspections is a national leader in FORTIFIED Evaluations and ready to help you achieve this collection of construction upgrades that work together to protect your home from severe weather.

Questions? Give us Knockout a call at 855-GO-FOR-KO, or visit fortifiedhome.com.

Is your home winter ready? Maybe it's not winter right now, but it never hurts to know how to prepare. This comprehensive episode covers everything you need to know on winterizing your home - including annual preparation, home upgrades, last-minute prep, and what to do after winter storms.

To learn more on this topic, visit ibhs.org/winter-ready. And as always, you can call 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit fortifiedhome.com for any questions regarding your home's resilience.

Is your home thunderstorm ready? This comprehensive episode covers everything you need to know on severe weather preparedness and recovery - including annual preparation, home upgrades, last-minute prep, and what to do after severe weather. 

To learn more on this topic, visit ibhs.org/thunderstorm-ready. And as always, you can call 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit fortifiedhome.com for any questions regarding your home's resilience.

Hurricane season runs from June 1st - November 30th. This episode goes over tips from the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS) on how to plan ahead and prepare your home for hurricane weather. These tips can be found at ibhs.org/hurricanereadyhome. 

If you have any questions following this episode, call 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit fortifiedhome.com to get in touch with Knockout Inspections and our team of FORTIFIED Evaluators.

How does a roof become a FORTIFIED Roof? Not only does a roofer have to follow the FORTIFIED building standards, but a FORTIFIED Evaluator also has to document the work through a set of required photos and attachments. Learn more about this required documentation in this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor.

For questions or more information, call 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit fortifiedhome.com.

Everything starts with a good foundation, or in FORTIFIED's case, a sealed roof deck. This episode covers the different methods for sealing a home's roof deck and the importance of doing so. Like everything with FORTIFIED, it's all about resiliency and the strength to stand up to high winds, hail, and major storms.

If you have any questions following this episode, give Knockout Inspections a call at 855-GO-FOR-KO, or visit fortifiedhome.com.

In response to the California wildfires, Knockout Inspections wishes to bring attention to the available guides and resources for wildfire preparedness provided by IBHS (the same institute that created the FORTIFIED Home program).

If you have any questions following this episode, give us a call at 855-GO-FOR-KO, or visit fortifiedhome.com.

This episode is all about FORTIFIED Commercial and how its levels of Roof, Silver and Gold differ from the residential standards. Visit fortifiedcommercial.org for more on the Commercial Standard. You can also click here to view IBHS's technical document.

As always, trust Knockout Inspections as your FORTIFIED Expert. Call 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit fortifiedhome.com to get in touch with any questions you may have.

In this episode, we're covering ten key talking points for REALTORS to know about the FORTIFIED Homes Program that can benefit their clients!

Click here to download the coordinating PDF as a free resource!

For any questions, visit fortifiedhome.com or give Knockout Inspections a call at 855-GO-FOR-KO!

The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) has updated the FORTIFIED Home Standard for 2025! Whether you own an existing FORTIFIED Home, help clients buy and sell FORTIFIED Homes in your area, or build/roof to these advanced requirements, you'll want to take a listen to this summary of changes. After all, knowledge is power!

Technical Documents referenced in this episode:

More Questions? Call 855-GO-FOR-KO or go to fortifiedhome.com!

The Insurance Institute of Business and Home Safety (IBHS) does a lot more than most people think, and their Research Center--located in Chester County, South Carolina--is equipped with state-of-the-art technology that significantly advances building science and influences residential and commercial structural design and construction, helping to create more resilient communities. Listen here to learn all about it!

For any FORTIFIED questions following this episode, visit fortifiedhome.com or call Knockout Inspections at 855-GO-FOR-KO.

Have questions about the FORTIFIED Home Program? This episode is for you! We're diving in to answer the most commonly asked questions about this enhanced building standard for stronger, safer homes. As leading experts in FORTIFIED evaluations, Knockout Inspections is the trusted source to answer these FAQs.

If you have questions following this episode, please visit fortifiedhome.com or call us at 855-GO-FOR-KO.

This week's episode is all about Strengthen Alabama Homes (SAH) Program, which provides grants to Alabama residents for residential wind mitigation on existing, owner occupied, single family homes. Funding for this program comes from the insurance industry in Alabama and is not funded from the state’s general budget, nor is it tied to a federally funded program. Recipients of the grant are awarded up to $10,000 to make FORTIFIED Roof or Silver upgrades to their home. Knockout Inspections is a certified FORTIFIED Evaluator for this grant program and is happy to answer any and all questions you have in pr...

In this episode of The FORTIFIED Factor Podcast, we dive into how FORTIFIED Home™ standards are reshaping the housing market in Alabama. Learn how these resilient building practices are driving down insurance premiums, boosting property values, and unlocking significant savings for homeowners and builders. We also explore the financial benefits for builders incorporating FORTIFIED into their projects and the long-term impact on communities. Whether you're a homeowner, builder, or industry professional, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

Discover how partnering with Knockout Inspections can streamline the FORTIFIED process, unlock financial benefits, and he...

In the final episode of our series on certified FORTIFIED professionals, we turn our focus to the FORTIFIED Builder. Builders certified in FORTIFIED standards are uniquely equipped with specialized knowledge and skills to construct homes that can withstand intense weather events. We’ll discuss what it means to be a FORTIFIED Builder, the training involved, and how these professionals are essential to creating hurricane-resilient homes. Learn how FORTIFIED Builders work closely with Evaluators and other experts to make homes safer and stronger.

For more information, call us at 855-GO-FOR-KO or visit fortifiedhome.com.

In the second episode of our three-part series on the professionals certified in the FORTIFIED Home Program, we shine a light on the FORTIFIED Roofer. These experts play a crucial role in protecting homes by ensuring roofs are installed to meet rigorous FORTIFIED standards, which provide enhanced defense against severe weather. We’ll explore the skills, training, and techniques FORTIFIED Roofers use to build roofs that are tougher and more resilient. Discover how FORTIFIED Roofers contribute to the overall strength and durability of a home, making it safer for homeowners in storm-prone areas.

For questions or to le...