All About Roof Fire Ratings on Residential Roofs

Today’s residential roofing systems are designed to withstand damage caused by strong winds and the impact of hail and wind-carried debris. But did you know that they’re also rated in other ways? For instance, many roofing materials in the market today offer excellent fire resistance. If you are looking to replace your old roof, be sure to check the fire rating classification your roofing choice belongs to.

In this blog, local roofing contractor Deschutes Roofing & Insulation talks about fire resistance ratings on residential roofs systems.

ASTM E108 Testing Standard

The ASTM E108 is a fire-test-response standard used to evaluate roof coverings of both residential and commercial roofing systems. It simulates fire starting outside a dwelling or building accompanied by wind conditions. Through a set of testing parameters and criteria, roof coverings are classified into three—Class A, B, and C.

Class A Fire Rating – A roof covering that has this fire rating is effective against severe fire test exposures and is ideal for homes situated in areas where wildfires are prevalent. It is tested to resist 15 cycles of gas flames turned on and off, last up to four hours before ignition, and experience a maximum flame spread of six feet. We recommend roofing materials with a Class A fire rating for your roof replacement project, such as composition shingles, metal roof panels, and clay and concrete tiles.
Class B Fire Rating – Roof coverings with this fire rating provide moderate resistance to fire damage. They are tested to experience a maximum flame spread of eight feet, last up to an hour before igniting, and resist eight cycles of gas flames turned on and off. Pressure-treated wood shakes and shingles are examples of roofing materials with this fire rating.
Class C Fire Rating – The lowest fire rating is given plywood, untreated wood shakes and shingles, and particleboard. These roofing materials offer only light protection against fires and would ultimately fail as a roof covering.

GAF Roofing Products With High Fire Resistance Ratings

When you work with a highly rated GAF roofer like Deschutes Roofing & Insulation, you get to install a complete roofing system that is not only great-looking and backed by maximum warranty coverage but also has exceptional fire resistance. We offer a wide range of GAF roofing products that have Class A fire ratings, including the VeraShield® roof underlayment and Timberline® HDZ™ dimensional shingles.

Give us a call at (541) 241-5720 (Bend) or (503) 967-9590 (Portland) for your roof repair or replacement needs.

You may also fill out our contact form to request a free estimate.

We were very pleased with our service. We got three different estimates and we went with Deschutes Roofing. We also had a personal recommendation from friends. The roof was actually installed very quickly and efficiently. The crew was very … read more Response from business owner Deborah, I enjoyed meeting with you today for the final inspection. Thank you so much for the kind review. We appreciate your business!

Deborah M.

We had an excellent experience with Carlos and the team at Deschutes Roofing. Dave conducted a thorough inspection of our roofing needs, answered our questions, and provided a detailed appraisal with a range of options. Laurie provided … read more Response from business owner Kris, thank you for your kind compliments. We appreciate your business and really enjoyed working with you!

Kris B.

Very professional. Recommend them highly. Prompt, well done. Response from business owner Thanks, Jo!

Jo U.

Had winter damage due to heavy snow. Then an inspection of my roof revealed defects when installed by original roofer. Carlos was very responsive to my needs and required repairs were completed quickly.

Michael M.

Thanks to Deschutes Roofing Co. for a smooth and proffesional job done. Between scheduling flexibility and consideration of conditions, Carlos and his crew felt like family

David P.

We got in touch with Carlos on a Saturday desperate for help with our ice dams, as we had water actively running into the house. He got a crew together for us the next day.

Barbrina D.

Needed some minor roof and gutter repairs for which Deschutes Roofing was perfect. Excellent evaluation of problems followed up by reasonable price and good work. Pleasant to work with and on time as well.

Cat B.