FM Global and ASCE 7 are both widely referenced in commercial roofing and building design, but they serve very different purposes. The simplest way to understand the difference is this: ASCE 7 is a building design standard that establishes the minimum structural loads required by building codes, while FM Global provides property loss prevention standards that often exceed minimum code requirements.
For commercial property owners, architects, engineers, and facility managers, understanding the distinction is essential when designing or replacing a roof. A roofing system that satisfies local building code requirements may not automatically meet FM Global standards, especially if the building is insured by FM Global or another insurer requiring FM-approved assemblies.
What Is ASCE 7?
ASCE 7, published by the American Society of Civil Engineers, is the standard used throughout the United States to determine the structural loads buildings must safely resist.
These loads include:
- Wind loads
- Snow loads
- Rain loads
- Seismic forces
- Ice loads
- Flood loads
Florida’s Building Code references ASCE 7 when calculating wind pressures for commercial roofs. Engineers use these calculations to determine how much uplift force a roofing system must withstand during hurricanes and severe storms.
ASCE 7 provides the minimum legal design requirements needed to protect public safety and achieve code compliance.
What Is FM Global?
FM Global is a commercial property insurance company that develops its own engineering standards known as FM Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets.
Unlike ASCE 7, FM Global’s goal is not simply meeting minimum building code requirements. Instead, its standards are designed to reduce the likelihood of property damage, business interruption, and costly insurance claims.
FM Global evaluates roofing systems based on extensive laboratory testing and real-world loss experience. Roof assemblies that successfully pass testing receive FM Approval, indicating they meet specific performance criteria for wind uplift, fire resistance, hail, and other hazards.
Many large industrial facilities, hospitals, warehouses, manufacturing plants, and distribution centers choose FM-approved roofing systems even when local codes do not require them.
Minimum Code vs. Enhanced Protection
The biggest difference between the two is their objective.
ASCE 7 answers the question:
“What is the minimum structural performance required for code compliance?”
FM Global asks:
“What roofing system is most likely to minimize property damage and insurance losses over the building’s lifetime?”
Because of this difference, FM-approved roof assemblies frequently require:
- Higher wind uplift ratings
- Additional fasteners
- Stronger attachment methods
- Enhanced edge securement
- More robust insulation attachment
- Specific tested roof assemblies
These requirements often exceed local building code minimums.
Why This Matters in Florida
Florida experiences some of the highest wind speeds in the United States due to hurricanes and tropical storms.
While ASCE 7 provides the wind load calculations used by the Florida Building Code, many owners of critical facilities voluntarily select FM-approved roofing systems for additional resilience.
For example, a warehouse may legally comply with Florida code using one roofing assembly, but an FM-insured facility could require a higher-rated system with stronger attachment methods to satisfy insurance requirements.
Can a Roof Meet ASCE 7 but Not FM Global?
Yes.
This is actually quite common.
A commercial roof can fully comply with Florida building code by meeting ASCE 7 structural requirements while still falling short of FM Global approval because the roofing assembly has not been tested or installed according to FM standards.
Likewise, many FM-approved roofing systems also satisfy ASCE 7 requirements, although additional engineering verification is still required.
Meeting one standard does not automatically guarantee compliance with the other.
Which Standard Should Your Project Follow?
The answer depends on your building.
Projects typically follow ASCE 7 when:
- Complying with state and local building codes
- Designing new commercial buildings
- Performing roof replacements under permit
- Meeting minimum structural safety requirements
FM Global standards become especially important when:
- The property is insured by FM Global
- The owner requires FM-approved assemblies
- The facility contains high-value equipment
- Business continuity is a major priority
- Reduced insurance risk is an important consideration
Early coordination between the owner, architect, engineer, roofing contractor, and insurance representative helps prevent redesigns and costly changes during construction.
Choosing the Right Roofing System
Selecting a commercial roofing system involves more than meeting the minimum code. Building location, occupancy, insurance requirements, wind exposure, and long-term ownership goals should all influence the final specification.
An experienced commercial roofing contractor can evaluate your project’s code obligations, determine whether FM-approved assemblies are required, verify product approvals, and recommend a roofing system that delivers both regulatory compliance and long-term performance.
Shieldline Roofing’s Expert Opinion
FM Global and ASCE 7 serve different purposes, but both influence commercial roofing design. At Shieldline Roofing, we evaluate the building’s code requirements first, then determine whether additional FM Global standards apply based on the owner’s insurer or project specifications.
Our Key Insights
ASCE 7 establishes the minimum design loads required by building codes, while FM Global often requires more stringent roof assembly testing and wind uplift performance for insured properties. Many FM-insured facilities specify higher performance standards than the building code minimum to reduce storm-related losses and business interruptions.
Frequently Asked Question
Is FM Global required by the Florida Building Code?
No. The Florida Building Code relies on ASCE 7 for structural design requirements and does not generally require FM Global approval. However, if a building is insured by FM Global or the owner specifies FM-approved roofing assemblies, those standards must be followed in addition to applicable building code requirements. Verifying both code and insurance requirements before construction begins helps avoid costly project delays and ensures the roofing system meets all applicable expectations.Learn More
