When it comes to roof replacement, you shouldn’t prioritize price over quality. You should get the best material for your home, as it will be built to keep you and your family safe from the weather elements throughout its expected lifespan. But if you’re considering a material that doesn’t have a fire rating because it’s cheaper, then your roof will be vulnerable to fire. If something happens and your roof catches fire, it can spread and burn down your doors, windows and other parts of your home.
Most building codes don’t recommend using unrated roofs as well, so it’s best to choose a rated roof that suits your local area. They’re available in three categories, and our team at Masters Roofing explains them below:
Class A
Roofs with this rating have the highest resistance to fire, as they come highly recommended for homes near woodlands, forests, or any place that’s vulnerable to wildfires. This is because they can withstand a burning brand that measures 12 by 12 inches and weighs 2,000 grams. They can experience a maximum flame spread of six feet and endure 15 cycles of a gas flame turned on and off. Class A-rated roofs can also last around two to four hours before they ignite.
Class B
Class B roofs are still recommended by roofing and siding contractors because of their effectiveness against moderate fire exposures. Many pressure-treated shakes and shingles have this type or rating, and they can also resist eight cycles of a gas flame turned on and off and withstand a burning brand measuring 6? by 6? and weighing 500 grams. They can also experience a maximum flame spread of eight feet and last about an hour before ignition.
Class C
Class C roofs are the lowest of the three ratings since they only offer light fire protection. They can experience a maximum flame spread of 13 feet and last 20 minutes before ignition. They can only withstand a burning brand weighing 1/4 gram and measuring 1.5 x 1.5. With a gas flame turned on and off, Class C roofs can only resist about three cycles.
If you’re looking for the best roofing and exterior painting service in the area, Masters Roofing always gets the job done! For more information, contact us by calling (901) 871-7663 or filling out our convenient contact form. We serve Memphis and nearby TN areas, so talk to us today!