Roofing

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.