CHOOSE FIRE-RESISTANT

ROOFING MATERIALS

EAST LANSING, Mich. – It might seem like an unimportant detail, but homeowners in rural areas prone to possible wildfires should consider using fire-resistant roofing materials when installing new roofs or building new homes.

The roof is a home’s largest surface area potentially exposed to airborne sparks called firebrands. Firebrands from a wildfire can set wood ablaze, causing home losses in rural and forest areas.

Metal, tile and fiberglass roofing materials are the most fire resistant. They offer the best protection because they are not likely to catch fire.

Asphalt shingles and tarpaper roofs are also fire resistant, however they tend to be less protective because they are made of oil-based products that can catch fire when exposed to enough heat. Asphalt roofs generally provide protection from firebrands during a wildfire.

Wood offers the least protection. A small spark can set fire to dry, sun-baked wooden shingles.

Fire retardants for wooden shingles are available but must be applied at regular intervals. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

It’s also important to keep eaves troughs free of leaves, pine needles and litter.

“Wildfires can cause firebrand blizzards and these can land in the leaf litter that accumulates in eaves troughs,” says Mark Hansen, Michigan State University (MSU) Extension emergency management specialist. “Should that happen, the burning leaves in the eave trough could potentially set the edge of the roof or wooden siding on fire.”

For more information on protecting your home from wildfires, pick up a copy of “Protect Your Michigan Home from Wildfire” (MSU Extension bulletin E-2831) at your county MSU Extension office, or visit <www.msue.msu.edu/emergency>.

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