It's no secret that wildfires have grown in number, size, speed, and frequency over the last five years.
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- In , California experienced its second-largest forest fire, the Dixie Fire, which burned nearly 1,000,000 acres.
- Even an island paradise surrounded by water is not immune from forest fires, as evidenced by the Lahaina Maui fires last August.
- was also Canada's worst fire season on record, with 529 fires burning in areas that are usually considered safe from fire.
Ivan O'Neill, co-founder of Madronus Wildfire Defense and NFPA Certified Wildfire Mitigation Specialist, warns that 'many people think of wildfires as a western U.S. problem, but we're already seeing wildfires become larger and more frequent in the Southeast and upper Midwest, which is just the beginning of what will happen over the next 10 years. We see fire-resistant roofs being a required feature for new and old homes, and it's important that homeowners begin planning for the new normal now.'
Since the roof is one of the first lines of defense against fire, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the features and qualities that define a fire-resistant roof, including:
What to Look for in a Fire-Resistant Roof
Conducted by Underwriters Laboratories (UL), a not-for-profit organization that tests and certifies building materials, the UL790 (ASTM E 108) test is considered the national standard for how well a roofing material can perform against fire.
The testing evaluates the effectiveness of a roofing material against severe, moderate, or light fire exposure, respectively.
- Class A roofing materials have proven effective against the most severe fire testing. As a stand-alone roofing product, they provide the best protection against flame penetration and surface flame spread without chemical treatments or additional underlying roofing materials. Class A roofing materials can also withstand direct flame exposure without catching on fire.
- Class B roofing materials provide a moderate fire-resistance rating. Some roofing material manufacturers infuse their products with fire-retardant chemicals to meet this standard. While they offer better protection than Class C products, they can ignite when exposed to extreme heat over a prolonged period.
- Class C roofing materials have proven effective against light fire exposure only. While these roofing materials won't easily catch on fire, they could eventually ignite.
- Unrated roofing materials could not meet the minimum requirements per the UL790 (ASTM E 108) testing standards.
If you're looking for the best roof for fire resistance, choose a Class A roofing material.
Non-Combustible vs. Combustible Roofing Materials
While a Class A fire rating indicates excellent fire resistance, non-combustible materials offer an additional layer of safety by minimizing the risk of ignition and fire spread.
Non-combustible roofing materials, such as metal roofing, inherently resist ignition and do not contribute to the spread of fire, providing superior protection.
In contrast, combustible roofing materials can catch fire and spread flames, even if they achieve a Class A rating through treatments or specific assemblies.
For example, many asphalt shingle roofing products have a Class A fire rating. However, asphalt is a petroleum-based product, and petroleum is highly flammable.
To achieve a Class A fire rating, asphalt shingles are typically coated with fine granules to provide surface-level fire resistance. If flames come in contact with the underlying asphalt through cracks, rips, or missing shingles, it's more likely to catch fire than a non-combustible roofing material.
The difference between non-combustible and combustible roofing materials is becoming increasingly important to insurance carriers.
Christen Losey-Gregg, CPRIA and member of the Private Risk Management Association stated that 'non-combustible materials are absolutely a point of consideration when it comes to the evaluation of whether or not an insurance company will consider insuring a risk they are underwriting. With each fire season, it becomes increasingly more difficult to procure favorable coverage and deductibles for these risks.'
Fire-Resistant Roofing Material vs. Fire-Resistant Roofing Assembly
It's important to understand that roofing materials are part of the entire roofing system, known as the roofing assembly. The roofing system includes the roof covering (a.k.a. roofing materials), underlayment, insulation, and roof deck.
To achieve a Class A rating for the roof assembly, the complete roofing system is tested as a whole and must meet specific fire resistance standards, including:
- Roof Covering: The outermost layer, which can be made of Class A materials like clay tiles, concrete tiles, or metal roofing.
- Underlayment: A critical layer that provides additional fire resistance. High-quality, fire-resistant underlayments are essential for achieving a Class A rating for the entire assembly.
- Roof Deck: The structural surface to which the roofing materials are applied. It can be made of plywood, OSB, or metal and may be treated for fire resistance.
- Insulation: Materials used to reduce heat transfer and improve energy efficiency can also contribute to the fire resistance of the roof assembly.
- Flashing and Ventilation: Properly installed flashing and fire-resistant vents help prevent fire from entering the roof assembly through gaps and joints.
Here's a quick recap about fire ratings:
The roofing material rating ensures that the roofing material itself is capable of withstanding severe fire exposure. Non-combustible roofing materials offer an additional layer of fire resistance.
The roofing assembly rating ensures that the entire roofing system, including the roofing material, provides comprehensive fire protection.
Fire Prevention Tips to Protect Your Home
In addition to having a non-combustible Class A-rated roofing material and roof assembly, it's important to take preventative steps to protect your home from fire.
For instance, non-combustible clay tile roofs are highly fire-resistant.
However, the space underneath the tile's curved shape provides the ideal environment for birds, insects, nests, and dry leaves.
When debris accumulates in the voids and gaps beneath the tiles, it can create tiny stockpiles of kindling for flying embers.
This is why it's important to clean and inspect your roof regularly.
Be sure to remove any leaves, bird nests, or debris from your roof and gutter system.
Hardy Selo of Property Guru adds that 'homeowners in fire-prone regions can benefit from securing vent openings with protective screens and closures to prevent burning debris or embers from entering the home.'
Don't forget to inspect your chimney as well.
Creosote, a by-product created when the fireplace is used, accumulates in the chimney of frequently used fireplaces. Because creosote is highly flammable, it's important to have your chimney cleaned (especially if you use your fireplace regularly).
The company is the world’s best fireproof roofing materials suppliers supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.
Check the electrical wiring in your attic.
Electrical wiring is one of the top three causes of attic fires. If you experience flickering lights, electrical plugs, or switches that work intermittently, you may have faulty wiring that can create sparks in the attic that quickly turn to flames. These scenarios are especially prevalent in older homes and wiring systems. If you suspect any issue with the electrical wiring in your attic, contact an electrician immediately.
Protect Your Home from Fire with DECRA Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is considered one of the best options for protecting your home against fire damage. All DECRA Metal Roofing products are made from non-combustible stone-coated steel and have the highest Class A rating for fire.
Additionally, the protective interlocking panel system of DECRA stone-coated metal roofs dramatically reduces the risk of the roof deck and framing igniting from flying embers and flame spread.
Since , DECRA Metal Roofing products have withstood the elements in some of the harshest climates worldwide. Our stone-coated metal roofs have the industry's best Class A fire rating and come standard with a transferable and comprehensive Lifetime Limited Warranty.
Ready to see and feel the DECRA difference? Order a complimentary sample today.
Editor's note: This post was originally published in and has been updated with current information.
Quick Answer: Slate tiles are the best fire-resistant roof for your home, followed by clay and concrete tiles, then metal. Most residential roofs aren't equipped to support the heavy weight of slate or concrete tiles. Metal, on the other hand, is light-weight.
What Does 'Fire-Resistant' Mean?
Before we discuss the best fire-resistant roof for your home, we need to know what 'fire-resistance' means. It's good to keep in mind that 'fire-resistant' is not 'fireproof'. According to Surviving Wildfire, in order for a roof to be considered Class A fire resistant, fire cannot penetrate through the roof into the attic. Take asphalt shingles, for example. Most asphalt shingles have a Class A fire-resistant rating. Class A is the highest fire-resistance rating. For a certain period of time and at a certain heat intensity, asphalt shingles will resist catching fire. However, after so long, or with increased heat, they will catch on fire and burn, and melt. Asphalt shingles have asphalt in them. Asphalt is a form of petroleum. Petroleum burns.
Natural slate tiles, on the other hand, are also rated Class A. Slate is rock. Rock does not burn nor will it melt. Neither does concrete or clay. Metal roofing also doesn't burn.
What Are The Roof Fire Classifications?
UL measures and tests, among other things, how resistant roof coverings are to fire. They rate different roof coverings, such as asphalt shingles, on a scale from Class A to C, and Unrated. Class A roof coverings are effective against severe fire test exposures, Class B against moderate fire tests, Class C against light fire tests. An Unrated roof is the most vulnerable to fire. An example of an Unrated roof covering would be untreated wood shake. Dry, untreated wood is the most vulnerable to fire. Campfire, anyone?
These fire test exposures are simulated and originate from outside the home. In other words, how well will your asphalt shingles protect your home from an approaching fire, for example, if a burning brach lands on your roof?
Causes of Roof Fires
Roof Leaks
There is electrical wiring in your attic. A leak in your roof can allow water into your attic. Water in contact with electrical wiring can create sparks. Sparks cause fire. Your roof protects your house from outside fires, not from inside fires. If you notice a stain on your ceiling, have your roof and attic inspected immediately. A stain on your ceiling is a sure sign you have a roof leak. Other roof leaks signs include missing asphalt shingle granules, missing roofing materials, cracked or damaged roofing material.
Insulation
Insulation itself does not cause roof fires. Improperly installed insulation does, however. Insulation installed too close to HVAC vents can overheat the insulation and ignite it or other materials. Insulation covering electrical wires or electrical boxes can cause sparks. If you're buying a used home, be sure to have it inspected, and make sure the inspector checks for these potential problems.
Roof Coverings
Some Class A fire-resistant roofs are better than others. Untreated and worn-out wood shingles or shake are the least fire-resistant. Although most asphalt shingles are Class A fire-resistant, as mentioned above, they still have asphalt in them. If you have wood shingles or wood shake, either have them replaced with a more fire-resistant roofing material, or get them treated immediately. If you have a worn-out asphalt shingle roof, again get it replaced with a new fire-resistant roof right away. A metal roof with a fire-resistant underlayment not only makes your roof fire-proof, it's also the coolest roofing material for Colorado.
Dirty Chimney
Chimney fires are among the most common causes of roof fires in Colorado. As you use your fireplace, creosote builds-up on the inside walls of your chimney. Creosote is flammable. Have your chimney cleaned by a professional chimney sweep at least once a year, before you light your first fire of the Fall or Winter. A good chimney sweep will also inspect your chimney while they're in there to look for damage or cracks. If they find anything, get it fixed right away.
Dirty Roofs
Another common cause of roof fires in Colorado is airborne embers. Embers come from as close as your neighbor's chimney or a wildfire miles away. Embers landing on dry leaves or branches on your roof can catch fire. Inspect your roof and gutters in the Fall after leaves have fallen, and again in the Spring to remove any debris that might have collected. Give your roof a fighting chance against roof fires by keeping it clean.
The Best Fire-Resistant Roofs for Your House Ranked:
- Slate Tiles
- Concrete or Clay Tiles
- Metal (standing seam, and stone-coated metal shingles and tile)
- Asphalt Shingles
- Treated Wood Shake or Shingles
Slate Tiles
Slate roofing tiles are basically rock. They are made from sedimentary rock of volcanic ash and clay. Slate roofing tiles are mined from quarries and are extremely durable, waterproof, and fireproof. Rock does not burn. Slate roofing tiles carry a Class A fire-resistant rating. Slate roofing tiles are among the most fire-resistant roofing materials available today. Although they are among the most expensive, initially, they are among the least expensive in the long run. This is because they often last 70+ years. Slate tiles are also among the heaviest roofing materials, along with concrete and clay tiles.
Concrete Tiles
Concrete tiles, like slate tiles, do not burn. They carry a Class A fire-resistant rating. They are made from sand, cement, water, and iron oxide. Coloring agents are added to give them their unique colors. While the mixture is wet, it's pressed onto steel molds to give them their unique looks. Concrete tiles can resemble barrels, slate, wood thatch, wood shake, or even asphalt shingles.
Concrete tiles, like slate tiles, are expensive and heavy. However, like slate, they often last a lot longer than, for example, asphalt shingles. Which makes concrete tiles lesser expensive over their lifetime.
Clay Tiles
Like slate roofing tiles, clay roofing tiles are a natural roofing product. They clay is mined, mixed, and stored for a period of time. It's then pressed and cut into blocks. Pressed again, formed and trimmed to their verious shapes. Finally, the tiles are dried and baked. Like concrete roofing tiles, clay tiles are formed into many shapes. Traditional shapes include Romano pans, S tiles, and barrels.
Clay, naturally, does not burn. This makes clay roofing tiles very fire-resistant. Clay roofing tiles carry a Class A fire-resistant rating. They are, however, somewhat fragile. They do not stand-up to large hail stones or being walked on.
As with slate and concrete tiles, clay tiles are heavy. If you are considering replacing your asphalt shingle roof with slate, concrete, or clay tiles, your home will almost certainly require additional structural support.
Metal roofing products also carry a Class A fire-resistant rating. They include standing seam, and stone-coated metal shingles and tile. As with slate, concrete and clay tiles, metal does not burn. What's more, standing seam metal roofing also helps to lower your cooling bill during the hot months. This makes it the coolest roofing material. Metal roofing products aren't as expensive as tile, yet lasts as long, if not longer. Metal roofing is fire-resistant, if not fireproof with the addition of a fire-resistant underlayment. It also has a cooling effect during the warm periods. Could standing seam metal roofing be the overall best residential roofing material?
Asphalt Shingles
Most asphalt shingle manufacturers make Class A fire-resistant shingles. This includes, among others, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, and GAF. Asphalt shingles are among the shortest-lived roofing products, however. Which makes them the more expensive long-term. They are among the least expensive, initially, though. Asphalt shingles also contain asphalt, which will eventually melt and burn. Which is why we list asphalt shingles lower on our list of the best fire-resistant roofing materials for your house.
The Least Fire-Resistant Residential Roofing Material
Wood Shake
Right out of the box, wood shake roofing, such as cedar, isn't fire-resistant. Wood shake needs to be treated with a fire retardant in order for it to be fire-resistant. There are three different fire retardant treatments available. These treatments costs extra money. A wood shake roof is already expensive. A high quality wood shake roof almost costs as much as a new metal roof (standing seam or stone-coated metal shingles or shake) at around $8.50/sf. Since a metal roof easily outlasts wood shake, it's more cost-effective to have a metal roof, be it standing seam or stone-coated metal shingles or tile.
How to Choose the Best Fire-Resistant Roof
The best fire-resistant roofing material is the one you can afford or the one that you're allowed. Not everyone can afford natural slate tiles. Not every roof can support them, anyway. However, if you can afford tiles or metal roofing, and if your home can support them and HOA allows it, these are the best fire-resistant roofing materials. As mentioned above, rock, concrete, and metal doesn't burn.
Standing seam metal roofing might be the perfect sloped roofing material. It's highly fire-resistant. It's the coolest roofing material for Colorado. It lasts longer than most other roofing materials, which makes it cheaper in the long run. Although it's more expensive initially, our financing makes it affordable.
If you live in a neighborhood whose homes all have asphalt shingles, your HOA might not allow you to have a standing seam metal roof. If this is your case, stone-coated metal shingles or stone-coated metal tiles might be the best you can do. Check with your HOA or city ordinance.
If you have no HOA, or if your HOA is not concerned, congratulations! Go with a metal standing seam roof with a fire-resistant underlayment. Embers and snow will slide right off your roof, and your new metal roof will help lower your Summer cooling bill '
Contact us to discuss your requirements of heat resistant wall panels manufacturer. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
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