When it comes to fire and building components, the roof is one of the most vulnerable parts and is generally the first thing to ignite, especially in fire-prone areas. This is why Underwriters Laboratories Inc., a non-profit organization, continuously evaluates and certifies the capacity of roofing material and related systems to resist flames. This testing is conducted to determine the level of safety and protection a structure can obtain in the event there is ever such an event. No matter what type of material is chosen for a roof, it is essential to understand fire ratings prior to making a selection.
Classification
There are three different classifications given to roofing materials: Class A, Class B, and Class C. Class A delivers the highest level of resistance while Class C delivers the lowest level of protection. There are various sources of fire, such as embers and chimney sparks, that can ignite roofing material. This is the reason that a series of laboratory tests evaluate the capacity of a product to withstand flame intensity from external sources. The classifications determine the level of protection and security a product can provide.
Test Methods
There are several criteria used to evaluate the performance of a roof including: intermittent exposure or penetration; spreading; burning; and tendency of the material to dislodge and generate flying embers. During or after the test, each product should not show any of the following:
- Embers falling off and flying away.
- Warping, breaking, cracking, or exposure to underlying structure.
- Burning or flaming decking material.
- Prolonged burning of the underlying structures.
The Class A rating indicates that the material can resist severe exposure without warping, breaking and cracking. Class B indicates a moderate capacity to resist flames, while Class C indicates a minimal capacity to resist flames. Class A is the most common designation used to comply with local building codes and ordinances as well as the recommended category by insurance institutions in order to find the best insurance coverage for the lowest cost.
Choices
When searching for the right roofing material, products that are designed to best withstand fire should be chosen. Not all materials combat burning; therefore, it is important to not simply rely on the function and appearance of the substance but know its capacity to provide fire protection.
A fire that starts on a roof threatens the entire building. It can originate from faulty chimneys, shards and flying embers from nearby burning brush, and faulty electrical wiring. To prevent such catastrophes from occurring, Underwriters Laboratories Inc. and other accredited organizations provide testing and certification to measure the material performance should it ignite. Understanding such ratings can help anyone repairing or replacing a roof to choose the right material to provide the highest amount of protection from fire!
Schulte Roofing Is a Houston Roofing Repair Company That Knows Fire Protection for Roofs!
Are you considering replacing your roof and need a Houston roofing repair company to do the job? Schulte Roofing at 800-367-7663 are the experts that Houston area customers can turn to for all of roofing needs, including fire protection!