All You Need to Know About Fire Suppression and Your Roof

In addition to shielding you from the elements, the roof of your home can be an important part of protecting your home against fire. The right roof can be the difference in case of an unfortunate incident of a fire.

Fire-exposure Ratings

The roof is one of the largest exterior parts that make up your home. Consequently, it plays an active role in stopping the spread of fire damage. Several roofing materials are equipped to do just that. These materials are classed under three fire-exposure ratings as below:

Class-A

These materials prove effective under severe test exposures. They provide a high level of protection to your roof deck. Materials classed here do not slip out of position. They also do not produce flying brand hazards. They are your best bet against fire exposure. Examples of Class-A roof coverings include fiber-glass reinforced asphalt shingles, concrete or clay roof tiles, and metal roofs.

Class-A materials like fiber-glass reinforced asphalt shingles are fire-resistant, not fireproof. If a fire is originating from outside your house, it will not contribute to spreading it. Fire won’t be able to spread on the underside.

Class-B

These materials perform well under moderate fire exposures. They adequately protect against fire spreading toward the roof deck. Similar to Class-A materials they do not slip out of position and do not produce flying brand hazards. Common materials classed here are pressure-treated shakes and shingles.

Class-C

Materials under this class are only effective against light fire exposure. They give a light degree of protection for your roof deck. Similar to higher-rated materials, they do not get dislodged nor do they produce flying hazards. Common materials found here include plywood, particle board and untreated wood shakes and shingles.

Local Conditions Do Matter

Your local conditions are a factor determining your level of risk to fire exposure. For example, areas with intense heat raise the temperatures on the roof. This consequently results in the increase of temperatures inside your home creating a high risk of fire situation. You may consider installing an evaporator cooling system to reduce your fire risk.

Always take pains to mitigate fire-feeding conditions. Cut any overhanging tree branches, gather up dry leaves to avoid fire-starting spots and make sure to keep the sides of your home clear of shrubs and bushes.

Inside

Fires originating from inside your house are usually harder to deal with. These fires have the potential of feeding on a lot of materials before meeting your roof. Since fiberglass cannot burn, roofing contractors usually recommend having fiberglass attic insulation.

Consider Installing Sprinklers

Sprinklers installed on your roof can contain fires very well. As soon as the sensors pick up any signs of fire, the sprinklers can kick in and deal with the danger promptly.

Visit our website at hprtexas.com to fill out a contact form today!

Frisco TX Roofing

High Performance Restoration LLC
6500 Preston Rd #201
Frisco, TX 75034
(214) 396-7772