TL;DR: While not completely “fireproof,” most asphalt shingles have a Class A fire-resistance rating, which is the highest rating available and means they are effective against severe fire exposure.

With wildfires consuming millions of acres across the country, more homeowners are looking to fireproof their homes. Even with the scientific leaps made in the last decade, we have yet to find a way to fireproof homes. However, we can make them fire-resistant.

As a GAF Master Elite Contractor, we specialize in installing high-quality, fire-resistant roofing systems.

As a GAF Master Elite Contractor, we specialize in installing high-quality, fire-resistant roofing systems that have a Class A fire-resistance rating. However, this doesn’t mean that all asphalt shingles are the same.

Here’s what you need to know about fire resistance ratings to be more informed when selecting a roofing contractor for your roof replacement.

 

fire-proof roof shingles

How Are Shingles Rated?

To be rated, roof shingles undergo rigorous testing by UL, where they are subjected to several fire incidents. For a roofing system to earn a UL 790 rating, it is exposed to three different scenarios:

  • The spread of flame test evaluates a roof’s ability to resist rapid flame spread.
  • The intermittent flame test evaluates the ability to withstand fire threats.
  • The burning brand test assesses the ability to resist ignition by embers or burning debris.

A roof’s ability to resist these three at varying intensities earns it a designation.

Understanding Fire Resistance in Asphalt Shingles

Class A Roof Shingles

Most asphalt shingles are Class A rated, providing a high level of fire protection and robust defense against flame spread for your roof deck. These are considered fully fire-resistant.

Class B Roof Shingles

Class B shingles provide a moderate degree of fire protection to the roof deck. While not as fire-resistant as Class A, these shingles still contribute significantly to reducing the risk of fire damage.

Class C Roof Shingles

The lowest category, Class C shingles, offers a slight degree of fire protection to the roof deck. While providing some resistance, Class C shingles have a lower level of fire protection compared to Class A and Class B.

Understanding these classifications is crucial when choosing roofing materials, especially in areas where fire resistance is a key consideration. Class A shingles, in particular, are recommended for enhanced protection against the potential impact of fire on your roof.

How to Choose a Roofing Contractor for Your Roof Replacement

For one thing, you’ll know which contractor to choose when asking for fire-resistant roofing materials. If the company doesn’t promise a Class A asphalt shingle, consider choosing a different roofing partner — especially if you live in a fire-prone area.

However, just because a roofing company uses shingles with a Class A fire rating doesn’t mean that this is the best shingle on the market for durability, wind resistance, and algae resistance. You want a contractor who can offer a fire-resistant roof that can stand up to your area’s weather. This will dramatically lower the chances of an emergency roofing situation, such as flooding.

Although the UL 790 rating is a key consideration when purchasing roof shingles, the shingle manufacturer matters, too. Choosing a company that works with a leading manufacturer means you can count on more than just standard fire protection. You get advanced technology that enhances your property’s safety.

Why GAF Shingles Offer Unmatched Fire Protection

One of the best manufacturers on the market is GAF. As the largest roofing manufacturer in North America, GAF has been protecting what matters most since 1886. This brand goes beyond manufacturing. They stand as an innovative partner committed to your safety.

GAF shingles use fire-resistant fiberglass, which helps them achieve a Class A rating from UL with most of their products.

GAF Timberline® Shingles

For the GAF Timberline® range, fire resistance is the foundation, but it’s not the only benefit.

  • Timberline HDZ® and Timberline UHDZ® shingles: Beyond their Class A fire-resistance rating, these shingles are also wind and impact-resistant. The Timberline HDZ® shingles offer Class 3 impact resistance. Featuring UltraMat™ technology, the Timberline UHDZ® has a Class 4 rating, the highest rating provided by UL. This high rating symbolizes advanced hailstorm protection and durability, making them an excellent option for regions with severe hail and thunderstorms. Both shingles also have LayerLock™ technology for industry-leading wind resistance.
  • Timberline® AS II shingles: The ultimate protection shingles, the Timberline® ArmorShield II shingles are designed for advanced impact resistance. They have an SBS-modified asphalt rubber-like formulation, which can withstand most severe weather conditions. As a Fortified Roof™, the AS II roof can be used to meet Fortified building requirements, ensuring enhanced protection.
  • Timberline® NS shingles: The Timberline® NS shingles combine the durable engineering of GAF roofs with the rustic appeal of wood-shaker shingles, providing both durability and that classic natural shadow aesthetic. Even with a focus on appeal, the Timberline® NS shingles still possess the foundational Class A rating. Homeowners don’t need to sacrifice safety and performance for style.

Choose Safety and Quality With an AmeriPro Roofing GAF Roof

Although asphalt shingles aren’t fireproof, they are fire-resistant. Beyond choosing fire-resistant roofing, you’ll want an experienced installation partner who will ensure your roofing is installed according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

AmeriPro Roofing is proud to be recognized as a GAF Master Elite contractor! We’ve partnered with the global leader for roofing shingle replacement and siding services. Of course, we use fire-resistant roofing material that is also wind- and algae-resistant, and can help keep your home cooler during the summer.

If you are looking for the best fire-resistant roofing materials, find your nearest location or fill out the contact form on our website to request a complimentary roof inspection today.