Prevention is your greatest protection against fire damage to your roof. Here are some tips on how you can help reduce the risk of fire damage to your roof.
1. Choose a roof with Class A rating – Roofing systems are rated according to the standards set forth in ASTM E108, which includes tests that simulate exposure to open flame, embers and gas flame. Depending on the roof’s performance, it may be classified A, B or C. Class A roofs provide the best protection against fire and are worth the investment. They may also make you eligible for discounts with your insurance provider.
2. Address roof leaks – Another reason for timely roof repair is that holes in the roof can let fire or embers reach the underside of the roof, where unprotected components like framing and decking, along with certain types of insulation, may catch fire.
3. Clean the roof regularly – Sometimes, it’s not the roof that catches fire first; it’s what’s on it. Debris like leaves and needles can act as kindling that can ignite larger debris like tree branches, which can burn for a long time and eventually burn through the roof. Regularly cleaning your roof and gutters, either by yourself or by professionals, can help reduce such risks.
4. Trim the trees in your yard – There are many reasons why you should keep tree branches away from your roof. They can scratch the granules or coatings off your roof, they can give small animals access to your rooftop, and they pose a greater risk of damage if they fall on the roof. Dry tree branches that are too close to the rooftop can also be a fire risk if they catch fire and fall on the roof. A 10-foot clearance between roof and outer branches is ideal. An arborist can cut the tree limbs for you without harming the tree itself.
5. Install a lightning arrester – A lightning arrester works like a lightning rod, but with additional equipment that suppresses high transient voltage. It can help reduce the risk of a lightning strike causing fire.
Superior Roofing is the leading roofer serving communities in Columbus, GA, and Auburn, AL. Give us a call at (706) 862-8008, (334) 869-7433 or (334) 218-5965. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.