Are Your Asphalt Roofing Shingles Fireproof? Here’s What You Need to Know

Picture of clean asphalt shingle roof and gutter

Your roof can likely experience a fire hazard but there is a slight chance that they might. For instance, if your house is situated in or near a wildfire-prone area, you should take extra precautions by installing asphalt roofing shingles that are fireproof so that they can help protect your home from the ravages of fire.

Asphalt roofing shingles are made from a combination of substances such as asphalt, fiberglass, and mineral granules. Asphalt is a basic type of bitumen that is used in many roofing applications for its ability to resist water and create a strong, waterproof seal. In addition to this, asphalt is a very fire-resistant material which is why it is a great addition to roofs.

Are Most Asphalt Roofing Shingles Fireproof?

Asphalt roofing shingles are not fireproof, but they do offer some degree of flame resistance. Usually composed of asphalt and mineral granules, these types of shingles can help impede the spread of fire. Additionally, many asphalt shingle varieties also contain chemical treatments that provide an extra layer of protection against flames.

Although most asphalt shingles come with a Class A fire resistance rating, it is best to take the necessary steps to ensure the asphalt shingles are well protected. In the event of a fire breakout, it is important to have a fire-resistant layer underneath the shingles. This layer serves as extra protection and can help prevent sparks from reaching the roof and burning the entirety of it.

But before we begin, here are a few basics about fire resistance ratings to make a more informed decision on roof replacement.

What Are the Different Fire Resistance of Roofing Materials?

Fire resistance of roofing materials normally comes in three different gradings.

Class A: Most asphalt shingles come into this category and they are normally found in the roof deck and offer a high degree of fire protection.

Class B: If you want to add a moderate degree of fire protection to your roof deck, the Class B fire rating is the best option for you.

Class C: This is the lowest category of roofing shingles and offers a slight degree of fire protection compared to the other two.

What Are the Benefits of Adding Asphalt Shingles to Your Roofing?

Safety: Fires on roofs can be particularly dangerous, as they can quickly spread to other parts of the house and cause serious damage or injury. By having fireproof roofing shingles, the risk of fires on roofs would be significantly reduced, which would help to improve the safety of homes and buildings.

Property protection: Fires on roofs can cause significant damage to homes and buildings, including the roof itself and any belongings inside. By having fireproof roofing shingles, homeowners and building owners could better protect their property from the potential damage caused by fires.

Insurance premiums: Insurance premiums can be significantly higher for homes and buildings that are at a higher risk of fires. By having fireproof roofing shingles, homeowners and building owners may be able to secure lower insurance premiums, which could help to save money in the long run.

Environmental benefits: Fires on roofs can release harmful chemicals and pollutants into the air, which can have negative impacts on the environment. By having fireproof roofing shingles, there would be fewer fires on roofs, which could help to reduce the overall environmental impact of roofing materials.

Important Questions to Ask About Asphalt Roofing Shingles

Are you planning to choose fire-resistant shingles for your roofing job? Here are a few important questions to ask about asphalt shingles before you consider installing them.

What is the level of wind resistance do asphalt shingles can handle?
Most asphalt shingles can easily withstand winds up to 130 mph. However, some types of asphalt shingles can withstand up to 180 mph winds.

What is the average life expectancy of asphalt shingles?
Most asphalt shingles can last up to 20 years, depending on the quality of the material and other factors.

Can my roof be watertight?
Yes, asphalt shingles are water-resistant and can provide your roof with a good level of protection from rain, snow and other forms of moisture.

Can my roof help keep my home cooler during the summer?
People who are living in sunny areas should be aware that asphalt shingles can actually help to keep your home cooler by reflecting sunlight away from the roof.

Want to Hire a Professional Team to Install Asphalt Shingles?

Dimensional Pro Construction is a recognized local roofing and construction company that installs fireproof asphalt shingles for residential and commercial properties. We have over 20 years of experience in the industry and our team of professionals is well-trained to provide you with a quality roofing job. Contact us today to learn about our asphalt shingle installations.

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