Evergreen Construction Company Inc. Installs Minnesota’s First FORTIFIED Roof: A Case Study in Resilience and Savings
At Evergreen Construction Company Inc., we’re proud to announce the successful installation of Minnesota’s first FORTIFIED Roof™ system in Orono, MN. This milestone project features a Class 4 CertainTeed Landmark Flex Weatherwood shingle and meets all Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) FORTIFIED standards—delivering unmatched protection, long-term savings, and peace of mind.
But that’s not all. As part of this project, we replaced all of the roof decking and added insulation where needed, reinforcing the home’s energy efficiency and ensuring a clean, solid foundation for this cutting-edge roofing system.
What Is a FORTIFIED Roof?
A FORTIFIED Roof™ is a nationally recognized, above-code roofing system engineered to withstand severe weather—high winds, hail, and heavy rain—far beyond standard building code requirements. Developed by IBHS, it combines advanced materials and rigorous installation standards to reduce the kind of wind and water damage that devastates homes during Minnesota’s harsh storms.


FORTIFIED Roofing Standards: What We Did
For our Orono installation, Evergreen Construction followed every certified FORTIFIED Roof™ standard, including:
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Full Roof Deck Replacement:
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We removed and replaced all existing decking to eliminate any compromised materials and provide a structurally sound base for the FORTIFIED system.
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Added Insulation as Needed:
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Insulation was added in key areas to improve energy efficiency and thermal performance.
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Enhanced Roof Deck Attachment:
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Ring-shank nails were used to secure the deck tightly, increasing resistance to uplift during strong winds.
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Sealed Roof Deck:
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All seams between panels were sealed using CertaSeam™ Roof Tape to prevent water intrusion even if shingles are blown off.
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High-Performance Underlayment:
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We installed CertainTeed WinterGuard® PRO and DiamondDeck® underlayments to guard against moisture under extreme weather conditions.
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Impact-Resistant Shingles:
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Landmark Flex Weatherwood shingles are Class 4 impact-rated, offering maximum protection from hail and windborne debris.
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Edge Protection:
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SwiftStart® SA Starter Shingles were installed along the eaves and rakes to prevent water infiltration at the roof’s most vulnerable points.
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Proper Attic Ventilation:
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CertainTeed ridge vents ensure balanced airflow and support roof longevity.
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Certified Installation:
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All work was completed to the exacting standards of the IBHS FORTIFIED program, ensuring the home qualifies for certification and insurance savings.
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Why Choose a FORTIFIED Roof?
Superior Storm Protection
FORTIFIED Roofs are proven to withstand hurricane-force winds, hail, and heavy rain, making them a smart choice for Minnesota homeowners looking to defend against extreme weather.
Insurance Savings
Our Orono homeowner now saves $1,200 annually—a 25–28% reduction in insurance premiums—thanks to the FORTIFIED certification. Many insurers offer deep discounts due to the significantly reduced risk of damage claims.
Higher Property Value
Homes with FORTIFIED Roofs are more appealing to buyers and command a higher resale value. Resilient homes = stronger investments.
Lower Maintenance & Longer Life
The enhanced materials and meticulous installation methods reduce the need for frequent repairs and extend the lifespan of the roof.

Evergreen Construction: Raising the Bar in Orono, MN
This project in Orono marks Evergreen Construction’s first FORTIFIED Roof installation in Minnesota—and we’re just getting started. As a trusted roofing contractor, we’re proud to lead the way in resilient home upgrades that add long-term value and protection.
We don’t just build roofs—we build peace of mind.
Ready to Upgrade? Get a FORTIFIED Roof in Minnesota
Want the ultimate in storm protection, energy savings, and insurance discounts? A FORTIFIED Roof™ installed by Evergreen Construction Company Inc. is your best defense.
Call at (651)-209-3130 or contact online!