Roofs protect us from the elements, saving us from the worst of the rain, heat, hail, and snow. But did you know that the right roof can also protect you from fire risks? As one of the largest exterior parts of the home, a roof plays a direct role in halting the spread of damage, in case of a fire emergency. Fortunately, there are many roof covers that are well-equipped to do that. Let’s find out which options are suitable for you in this e-book.

PART I: FIRE RATING TEST

ASTM E108 or UL 790 are the industry-recognized sets of testing methodologies for certifying the fire resistance of roof coverings. The tests are conducted at any certified testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories, or FM Global, for instance. Note that the ASTM E108 and UL 790 tests do not assess roof combustion from fires that start within a building. Rather, these tests try to establish a material’s capacity to withstand fire and prevent its spread and penetration from ABOVE the roof system (the exterior) or the underside of the roof deck, as well as prevent the formation of flying brands. For those unfamiliar with the term, “flying brands” refers to flaming particles that strong prevailing winds carry to other areas of the roof, setting those areas on fire as well.

From the exterior, the fire rating test evaluates the spread of the flame over non-combustible roof decks such as steel, poured gypsum, or concrete. In this test, the slope of the roof material to be tested is pre-selected – and the ratings apply to the maximum slope passed. Combustible roof decks, on the other hand, require two more additional burn-through tests. The rating applied is the lowest one of the three.

There are three types of fire exposure ratings awarded following these tests. These are:

CLASS-A

Class-A materials prove themselves effective through severe test exposure, by providing a high level of protection to the roof deck. These materials should not slip from their positions, and should not produce flying brand hazards.

PART I: FIRE RATING TEST

CLASS-B

Class-B roof coverings rate well against moderate fire exposure; they provide ample protection against fire spreading onto the roof deck. Like Class-A materials, they, too, do not slip from position, nor do they produce flying brands.

CLASS-C

Class-C materials are effective against light fire exposure, and only give a light degree of fire protection to the roofing deck. But like their higher-rated counterparts, they do not get dislodged, nor do they produce flying brands.

Wherever applicable, the ASTM E108 test also rates if the roof covering will display negative effects under exposure to rain. Treated wood decks, for instance, have to pass a weathering test that includes being exposed to over 800 inches of rain during the course of the testing period.

So how do these technicalities translate into real-world applications? Which roof materials are best for fire protection? We find out in the second

installment of this series. Stay tuned!

PART 2: BEST ROOF COVERINGS FOR FIRE RESISTANCE

We discussed which tests rate materials according to their fire performance, as well as the three main classifications of fire ratings. Today, we cover the

best of these rated materials: Class-A roof coverings.

While there is no such thing as fireproof, there is fire-resistant. Class-A roof coverings are your best bet against fire risks. And they are readily available in the industry, including:

Fiberglass reinforced asphalt shingles

Fiberglass is derived from inorganic materials that are non-combustible. As reinforcement, the material accords the entire roof covering with a base mat that does not readily catch and spread fire – which is an improvement over its predecessor, asbestos.

Concrete or clay roof tiles

According to the Tile Roofing Institute, concrete or clay roof tiles are installed in such a way that they allow air to circulate freely throughout the roof assembly. In the case of a fire, this can halt the spread of damage to the rest of the roofing system. Installing full sarking (i.e., sheathing, sheeting, or decking installed under roof covering materials to provide support) on the roof, too, can further enhance performance.

PART 2: BEST ROOF COVERINGS FOR FIRE RESISTANCE

Metal

Metal roofs are usually aluminum, galvanized steel, or stainless steel. These materials have high melting points, so fire risks can be mitigated by such roofing systems. In addition, metal roofs feature inorganic components.

Slate

Slate is another non-combustible roof covering material that performs superbly against fire. It is extremely resistant to heat, which is why it is also a popular countertop material; it does not scorch, crack, or split. Earlier versions of the International Building Code also rated slate as a class-A material for both combustible and non-combustible roof decks. The current rating, however, classifies slate as a class-A product only for non-combustible decks.

The best thing is, these roof materials are aesthetically pleasing, too. You get the combined benefit of protecting your home from fire risks, while enhancing you home’s curb appeal.

But how do you make sure that you get your money’s worth? Find out in the final installment of this series.

PART 3: MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR INVESTMENT

Part one of our series took us through the technicalities of fire performance tests, while part two showed us which roof coverings have the best ratings. Today, we’ll see how you can make the most of your investment in roofing

materials.

Investing in fire-resistant roofing is important, especially if you live in wildfire-prone areas. That said, there are some things that should be considered prior to, during, and after the installation project. Consider the following:

Building Codes

Most state codes in the country require roof coverings that are at least Class-C to be installed on properties. International codes may also be adopted at the local level, or modified as your state government sees fit. For instance, the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code enforces the provisions of the International Building Code, but has exceptions where international standards are not necessarily applicable to the specific conditions in the state.

Other Fire-Resistant Materials

Keep in mind that protecting your home from fire hazards should not start and end with your choice of roof coverings. Vents, eaves, soffits, and gutters should also be geared against fire spread and damage with the use of ignition-resistant and non-combustible accessories such as metal meshes or screens. Other fire-resistant materials for the home are also available, such as siding, patio covers, and fences.

PART 3: MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR INVESTMENT

Proper Installation

Finally, fire-rated materials must be installed according to the specifications set by the manufacturer. And your professional contractor should be well-versed in the attendant technical details for your material of choice. This is why it is important to choose contractors who have had extensive experience with fire-resistant roof coverings – especially in areas where wildfires are common.

FINAL SECTION

A word to the wise: Class-A roof coverings do not necessarily mean Grade-A materials. The ASTM E108 and UL 790 tests determine the fire performance of materials, but they are not the be-all and end-all of equipping your roof against fire risks. Thinner roofing assemblies, for instance, provide less fuel in case of a fire – even if the covering may not be class-A. Have a professional conduct a thorough examination to determine your home’s best approach to achieving fire protection.

All American Home Services

3075 PS Business Center Dr Woodbridge, VA 22192

703-492-5815

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