Roofing Fire Hazards and How You Can Avoid Them
One of the most susceptible parts of your home, when a fire occurs, is no other than the roof. Due to its delicate nature, this is one of the first parts of your home to succumb to the fire.
For those who want to prevent roof fires and give their family safety and security, learning about the different roofing fire hazards is essential. This way, you know how to safeguard your home and avoid these causes from the get-go. Read on to know more about this.
Causes of Roof Fires
There are various causes of roof fires. Roofing fires and hazards are actually much more common than you think. Below are some of these.
- Flammable Roofing Materials
The materials used in your roof can be part of the problem. As you know, there are different types of roofing materials and these aren’t created equal. There are some roof materials that aren’t as equipped to handle fires and even other natural disasters.
If your home has the wrong materials installed, chances are you have a fire hazard on your hands. These are classified as class C roof materials and these include the likes of plywood, untreated wood shakes, and untreated shingles, to name some.
- Water Leaks
Besides this, water leaks and damage can also pose fire hazards for your roof. Water that seeps into the ceiling or attic can also harm the electrical wiring and can spark a fire.
- Faulty Electrical Wiring
Apart from the aforementioned, faulty electrical wiring is yet another common cause of roof fires, particularly those in the ceiling or in the attic. Faulty or even burned wires can start a fire in the house and are, in fact, one of the leading causes of this phenomenon.
- Ceiling or Attic Insulation
Ceiling and or attic insulation that hasn’t been properly applied can also be a cause of roof fires. Installers should know that these should not be wrapped around a heat source.
While insulations are not a fire hazard per se, how they are installed plays in important part in preventing roof fires or from becoming a fire hazard.
Ways to Avoid Roofing Fires
Just as there are various causes of roof fires, you should know that there are also different ways of avoiding this risk altogether.
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Get a Roofing Inspection
If you’re unsure about the condition of your home and its roof, one of the ways you can gain more insight into its health is by getting a roof inspection. Your trusted local roof contractors will be more than happy to tell you what the condition of your roof is, what needs to be repaired, what needs replacement, and how you can make it safer.
2. Use Fire-Resistant Materials
For those that are keen on replacing their roofs or are simply in the market, opting for fire-resistant materials is the best way to go. Find Class A materials as these are touted as the most fire-resistant among other classes.
Some of the best materials to look out for include clay or concrete roof tiles, metal roofs, slate tiles, and asphalt shingles that are made out of fiberglass, for example.
3. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Taking the time to clean your roof will go a long way in preventing unwanted roof fires. Not only do you get to clear dirt and debris that are prone to catching fire, such as leaves and twigs, among others, but you also ensure that your roof is in its best condition all year round.
The Bottom Line
Roof fires are downright scary and these pose dangers for the people living in your house. By learning more about what causes these and how you can prevent this, you can prevent roof fires from occurring in the first place.