Roofs (incl. vents)

Roof system are the most vulnerable area of your house because of the large surface area.

Best Practise

Install Class A-rated roof assembly

…. Asphalt shingles

Design roof slope and overhangs to limit ember buildup

What does Class A fire rating mean

Recommended Materials

  • Affordable, high-protection

    • Most commonly material

    • Fire-resistant

    • Medium lifespan

  • Long-lasting, durable and can withstand high temperatures and will not ignite, making it an excellent choice for wildfire-prone areas

    •Durable

    •Natural fore resistance

    •Long life span

    •Lightweight

Install non-combustible/fire-treated underlayment, or insulation, e.g. create layers to form a barrier against fire

Install flame- and ember resistant vents, e.g. mesh screens (1/8-inch or smaller)

Seal gaps around chimneys, skylights, and roof intersections with non-combustible metal drip edges

Maintain a clean roof

Property Checklist

Roof is made of Class A fire-resistant materials 

Non-combustible or fire-treated underlayment is installed

Roofs, roof valleys are cleared from leaves, pine needles and other flammable materials

Flame- and ember-resistant are vents installed in all attic or roof openings.

Gaps around chimneys, skylights, and roof intersections are sealed

There are no loose or missing shingles or roof tiles where embers could get through

Roof slope and overhangs reduce ember accumulation.

The problem

The roof is the most vulnerable part of a house in a wildfire because embers often land on it first, igniting debris and potentially setting your home ablaze. Even small gaps around vents, chimneys, or skylights allow embers to enter the attic, where fire can spread quickly throughout the house. Due to its large surface area, making the roof fire-resistant roof can be extensive and expensive. But keeping roofs, vents and gutters clean can go a long way to improve resilience.

Do it yourself or contactor

DIY

Cost

…. Clay or Concrete

…..Metal roofing

…..Slate tiles

Difficulty

  • Heavy, non-combustible tiles that significant fire resistance and don’t ignite easily. However, they are heavy and may require additional structural support.

    • Naturally fire-proof

    • Thermal efficiency

    • Long life span

    • Heavier

    • High cost and labour

Contractor

Materials with this rating are highly resistant to fire and can prevent flames from spreading. 

Building codes required Class A materials for roofs. Roof coverings that meet Class A rating “by assembly,” such as fire-retardant-treated wood shingles or shakes, must have an underlying material or a special installation technique to meet the acceptance criteria.

    • Fibre Glass

    • Mineral wool

    • Fire-treated natural fibres

  • Naturally fire-resistant and very durable, but it can be heavy and may also need additional support.

    • Top tier fire protection

    • Long durability

    • High cost and weight