The FORTIFIED Factor

In this week’s episode of The FORTIFIED Factor , our AI Experts (informed by Knockout Inspections) unpack a clear, practical checklist designed to help you verify whether a home is truly FORTIFIED—or simply marketed that way. Whether you’re buying, selling, or making sure your own home is protected, this step-by-step guide equips you to separate genuine resilience from assumption. Here’s what’s in...

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: The three pillars every true FORTIFIED Roof™ must hav...

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 constr...

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 st...

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...

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 dow...

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 e...

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...

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 f...

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 v...

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...

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...

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-...

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...

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! C...

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 struct...

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.