How do I select the best fire-resistant roof from Republic Roofing. Your roof serves some relevant functions. It shields your property from the elements. But the quality of your roof also impacts the structural integrity of your home or business. Besides, it can greatly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your house.
As we can see, it offers several advantages. Can it, however, keep you safe from a fire? Is it possible to have a fireproof roof? The answer is no, unfortunately. Even non-flammable roofing materials can melt or distort when exposed to intense fire.
Fire-Resistant vs. Fireproof: Which Is Better?
Roofs that are totally impervious to fire do not exist. However, fire-resistant roofs are possible. Nowadays, we can find a variety of fire-resistant roofing materials.
Let’s get to know them a little better.
Roofing Fire Ratings:
Roof fire resistance refers to a roofing material’s ability to keep an interior fire from spreading to the exterior. So, the roof fire rating system works like this:
- Class A Roofing
Class A roofs are the most fire-resistant kinds of roofing available today. They are the ideal option for any home since they last the longest before igniting. Class A roof coverings are made of metal, slate, clay, concrete, and composition shingles.
- Class B Roofing
Class B roofs are fire resistant even in low-intensity situations. Class B exterior roofing materials should last for one hour before starting to ignite. Class B roofing materials include pressure-treated shakes and shingles.
- Class C Roofing
Class C roofing has a low fire rating. It just takes 20 minutes for Class C roofing to catch fire. Use Class C materials only if fire resistance is not an important consideration. Class C roofing materials include particleboard, untreated wood shakes, shingles, and plywood.
- Not Rated Roofing Materials
You may also find unrated roofing materials in the market. However, these materials do not have the necessary properties to have at least a Class C rating. So, they are not fire-resistant. For this reason, municipal codes usually do not allow the use of these materials.
Every homeowner should stay away from unrated roofing materials.
How do I Select the Best Fire-Resistant Roof?
Here are some Class A fire-resistant roof sheathing options:
- Slate
Slate is beautiful, long-lasting, and naturally fire-resistant. Also, it takes a very long time to weather or deteriorate. Therefore, it is a good choice for use as a roofing material.
However, slate does have certain drawbacks. Installing it is difficult because of its weight and requires specialized skills and equipment. Moreover, it is a costly material.
- Clay Tile
Clay tiles are much lighter than slate and comprise non-flammable natural materials. It is common in Spanish, Southwestern, and mission-style architecture to use rounded clay tiles.
During a fire, embers might enter via any gaps between the tile and the underlayment. Thus, a proper installation is required if you want Class A fire protection from a clay tile roof.
- Concrete Tile
If you prefer the tile look, concrete is a good alternative. Concrete tiles are weather-resistant, non-combustible, and, in many cases, less expensive than other materials, such as wood. In addition, a wide variety of colors, coatings, and finishes are available. Likewise, you will have more options for personalization with this material than with slate or clay.
- Asphalt Shingles
Although their raw material is asphalt, these shingles can withstand fire. Using a fire-resistant underlay with fiberglass-backed asphalt shingles can help keep your home safe in case of a fire.
Two Better Fire-Resistance Materials
The following two fire-resistant roofing materials are even better options:
- Metal Roofs
Metal roofing has a lot going for it when it comes to fire resistance. Metal is non-combustible, light, impervious to corrosion, and requires little upkeep. Besides, metal roofs can withstand hurricane-force winds, rain, and snow. Practically, you can use them on any roof, from the steepest to the flattest.
- Synthetic Roofing
Manufacturers can make synthetic or composite shingles and tiles seem like wood, asphalt, or natural stone tile. Additionally, their reflective properties help reduce cooling costs. For example, DaVinci Cool Roof tiles have earned the ENERGY STAR label. In addition, they come with a 50-year warranty and are rated Class A for fire safety.
Make Your Roof More Fire Resistant! Contact Republic Roofing Now!
Your family’s safety depends on the type of Class A roofing material you select. However, choosing the best materials is not sufficient. A proper installation is necessary! Homeowners can count on Republic Roofing to do an excellent job.
For more information about our roofing company and what we offer, contact Republic Roofing at 901-437-5278. We service areas in Lakeland, Germantown, Bartlett, Memphis, and Collierville, TN.