Fire Rated Roofing Materials

Before choosing a material you should know the fire ratings that are given to each material.

Fire rated roofing materials. Class c fire resistant roofing material. Obviously since wildfires and the fire season has become increasingly worse it is important to note the roofing materials that are the lowest rated. The resistance to fire of roofing materials is rated based on a series of tests that is defined by a fire rating. Stucco is a plaster that has been used for centuries for both artistic and structural purposes.

Some roofing materials such as untreated wood are unrated as they cannot meet even the minimum ratings for fire safety. Your roof might also come into contact with open flame if a fire moves into your area. Using quality fire resistant roofing materials gives the entire structure a better chance of surviving a fire. However if the wood is treated with fire retardant chemicals it can often meet class b or even class a requirements.

Wood shake plywood or particle board roof are the most common roofing types listed as class c. Roofing materials go through strenuous testing to determine a fire rating. Concrete is often listed as among the best fire resistant roofing materials too. Understanding roof fire ratings class a roofing.

And you shouldn t overlook the roof as essential in fire protection since it s extremely vulnerable to sparks blown from wildland fire. Fire resistant roofing materials fire ratings. Combustible and noncombustible refer to the performance of a material e g wood stucco steel. A reliable roofer will be able to find the right option to match your style and budget.

Common underlying materials include a type 72 roll roofing material also known as 72 pound felt or 72 pound capsheet material and a panelized gypsum product. Roofing fire ratings 101. Their knowledge and experience can get you the best option for your needs and budget. Ul 790 is a quality assurance service listing.

An exterior fire retardant treated shake roof has a stand alone class b rating. Modern stucco is. A professional roofing contractor can help you decide upon the best fire resistant material for your roof. An example of a roof assembly is given in figure 1.

Fire resistant can refer to a material or an assembly e g all the component s in a wall siding insulation and sheathing products. Roof covering packaging that encloses shingles or other roofing that have a fire rating will display the level of fire or wind resistance rating of the materials. Class a roofing is the preferred choice for any home but this type of roofing is particularly important if you live in an area that is prone to wildfires to achieve a class a rating the roof must be effective against severe fire exposure.