What Are Fire-Resistant Roof Shingles?
A fire is one of the last things you want to happen to the home you’ve created so many memories in. With a fire-resistant roof, you can mitigate fire risks to keep your home as safe as possible while preventing widespread damage.
Understanding the different fire-resistant roofing products can seem quite confusing, especially when trying to evaluate the class rating system. Below, our expert roofing contractors from Elite Remodeling Services discuss everything you need to know about fire-resistant roof shingles. If you’re interested in replacing your roof with a fire-resistant model, call our Minneapolis-based team at (952) 646-2480 for a free estimate.
What Does Fire Resistant Mean in Roofing Materials?
First, you need to understand what exactly “fire resistant” means, as this is not the same as fireproof. No roofing materials are 100% immune to flames, so the best you can get is fire resistant.
The best fire-resistant roofing materials will not catch on fire but can still melt, distort, and become damaged from the heat. Fire-resistant roofs can prevent flames from spreading and creating further damage but often need replacing after the event.
Fire-resistant roofs can be beneficial in many scenarios. For example, say a wildfire is approaching your home. If you don’t have a fire-resistant roof, the trees arching over your roof could set the roof on fire, igniting your entire home. With fire-resistant shingles, your roof may suffer some heat damage, but your home will be protected from the flames.
Understanding the Fire Ratings for Measuring Fire Resistance
The industry uses a standardized class system to measure how resistant different roofing materials and coatings are to flames. This class system allows you to identify which fire-resistant roof shingles will work best for your home’s needs. The classes include the following:
- Class A roofing: Class A fire-rated roofs are 100% fire resistant and can be placed directly under flames without catching on fire.
- Class B roofing: Class B roofing materials are somewhat fire resistant, meaning they may ignite when placed under flames or extreme heat for a long time.
- Class C roofing: Class C roofs have minimal fire resistance. While Class C roofs may not immediately catch on fire, they will likely ignite at some point during a home fire.
You’ll find numerous variations within the class system as well. Some materials and brands provide better fire resistance within the class A rating than others. For example, GAF-brand asphalt shingles are known to be the best option for class A shingles in the asphalt family.
The Best Class A Fire-Resistant Roof Shingles
If you want a class A fire-resistant roof, you have many options to choose from, all ranging in price, style, and benefits. Here are some of the best fire-resistant roofing materials:
Composite Roof Tile
With either a Class A or Class C fire rating, composite roof tile offers exceptional resistance to fire. These tiles are designed to self-extinguish when exposed to flames, significantly reducing the risk of fire spread. Additionally, their minimal heat transfer capabilities help prevent flames from moving across the roof’s surface, providing a higher level of safety and protection for your home.
Brava Roof Tile, the industry leader in composite roofing, combines aesthetic appeal with advanced fire-resistant technology, ensuring both beauty and security in fire-prone areas.
Metal
Metal roofing typically provides the most superior fire resistance. In many cases, metal roofing will not suffer damage from nearby fires at all unless it’s been placed under extreme heat and flames for a long period. One downside to metal roofing, though, is that the wooden underlayment will not be resistant to internal fires.
Metal roofing may come at a high price point, but it provides superior longevity and durability with minimal maintenance requirements.
Concrete, Clay, and Slate
Concrete, clay, and slate tiles are all naturally fire resistant, so they do not require additional coatings. Unfortunately, these heavy materials can come with installation complications and other downsides.
Asphalt
Nearly all asphalt roof manufacturers create class A products to ensure maximum safety. Asphalt roofing offers the most cost-effective roofing option that is still fire resistant and somewhat durable against other concerns like wind, storms, water, etc. Asphalt roofs may not have a long lifespan, but they can provide an excellent option for homeowners seeking safety without a large upfront investment.
Are You Ready To Install a Fire-Resistant Roof?
When you’re ready to improve your home’s safety with a rife-resistant roof, call Elite Remodeling Services in Farmington, MN, at (952) 646-2480 to schedule your free estimate.
