Navigating insurance and regional standards for stronger buildings

By Jesse Sanchez.

Roofing design isn’t one-size-fits-all. Here’s how you can help build a resilient, compliant system.

When designing a commercial roof, one of the most crucial questions a building owner faces is whether the building will need Factory Mutual (FM) insurance, a standard that directly influences the specifications required for a durable, high-performing roof. Here’s a look into this key decision, guided by insights from USG expert Frank Arevalo, who explains, “One of the first things to ask is, is this building going to be FM insured?”

For an FM-insured building, strict criteria apply, impacting design and materials in significant ways. FM approval often means additional considerations like high wind resistance and fire performance, areas where USG’s Securock® Brand Roof Boards are recommended for their durability and tested performance. In scenarios that don’t require FM insurance, the design process can be less complex, but USG’s resources remain valuable for ensuring structural integrity.

Regional construction differences add another layer of complexity, making it essential to adapt roof designs based on location. For example, wood construction is more common on the West Coast, which poses unique challenges for meeting code standards, especially in fire resistance. USG regional managers are available to guide owners and contractors through these localized requirements, ensuring they meet all relevant standards. As Frank highlights, having support from USG professionals who understand specific regional requirements can be invaluable in the design phase.

Highly warrantied systems increasingly rely on specialized roof cover boards like USG’s, which improve impact resistance, fire performance and wind uplift protection, making them a wise choice in both FM and non-FM scenarios.  

Discover a more comprehensive look at these considerations and for those looking to design a resilient, compliant roof from the start, find out how building owners can leverage USG’s expertise for a successful roofing project!