Fires are one of the most feared events that a homeowner doesn’t want to experience. However, they have to be prepared for it nonetheless. This means that they should be well-informed about their roof’s fire ratings and know if their roofing system offers adequate protection against fires. In this post, the top roof replacement and installation expert, LePage Sons and Roofing LLC, shares a brief primer on the different kinds of roof fire ratings.
Class A
A Class A roof is the ideal choice for fire protection on home roofing systems. This is especially important if you live in areas that are prone to wildfires. This is because Class A roofs can withstand a burning brand measuring 12” x 12” weighing at two kilograms. The roofing material will last for two to four hours before it even ignites. Class A roofs can experience a maximum flame spread of six feet and withstand 15 cycles of a gas flame turned on and off.
Class B
Your roofing contractor will tell you that a Class B rating is commonly associated with pressure-treated shakes and shingles. While they aren’t as robust as Class A roofing materials, they still provide adequate protection against fires and can handle a maximum flame spread of eight feet. They will withstand flames for an hour before ignition and can handle eight cycles of a gas flame turned on and off. It can also handle a hot brand weighing half a kilo, measuring 6” by 6”.
Class C
Under any circumstances, we strongly recommend against using Class C roofing materials since they only offer minimal fire protection. They can withstand a maximum flame spread of 13 feet and only lasts 20 minutes before ignition. It withstands a burning brand weighing 1/4th gram and measures 1.5” x 1.5”. It only resists three cycles of a gas flame turned on and off.
LePage Sons and Roofing LLC are here to ensure your investment in your roof is one that supports long-term performance. We’re the trusted roofing company in your area. As a GAF Master Elite® roofer, our team provides efficient and courteous service, making sure we perform roofing work that follows the manufacturer’s standards. To get started with your roofing project, call us today at (508) 295-6483. You may also fill out our contact form for a roof estimate.