Can My Historic New Orleans Home Get a FORTIFIED Roof?
What older homeowners need to know before the Louisiana Fortify Homes lottery closes June 19
If you own an older home in New Orleans, you’ve probably wondered whether FORTIFIED roof standards even apply to you. The answer is yes, and it’s worth understanding before the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program lottery closes June 19.
The Preservation Resource Center put out a solid explainer this week. Here’s what New Orleans homeowners specifically need to know:
Brick piers don’t disqualify you. Most raised New Orleans homes are eligible. The only foundation issue that can disqualify a home is dry-stack masonry, bricks stacked with no mortar. If your piers have mortar, even old lime mortar, you’re almost certainly fine.
The roof won’t look different. FORTIFIED standards focus on how the roof is installed, not appearance. Requirements are mostly hidden, sealed decks, fastening systems. Decorative elements like ridge tiles and finials can typically be preserved and reinstalled after the work is done.
Historic district homeowners need an extra approval step. FORTIFIED certification and historic district approval are two separate processes. If your home falls under the HDLC or VCC, you need their sign-off before work begins. Start that process early, especially with a June 19 deadline in view.
Original board decking needs assessment first. Many older New Orleans homes have wood board decking rather than plywood. Gaps over 1/8 inch require additional work before the project qualifies. Get a contractor to look at your decking before committing.
Lottery registration closes June 19 at 5pm. Register at ldi.la.gov/fortifyhomes. Full PRC explainer at prcno.org.
Questions? Reply to this email or call me at 504.335.7481.
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Philip Ewbank,
Realtor Keller Williams Realty New Orleans
8601 Leake Ave, New Orleans, LA 70118
C: 504.335.7481 | O: 504.862.0100
Each office independently owned & operated. Licensed in the state of Louisiana. License #0995700196