If you are a commercial property owner or manager, it is your responsibility to make sure that the building is as safe and secure as possible. Although you may not think of the roof when assessing possible safety measures, installing fire resistant roofing materials is actually a great way to minimize fire risk. Not only will the roof be resistant to the flames, but will also help to maintain the structure of the building.
Roofing materials are classified as Class A, B and C, with Class A being the best choice for fire safety.
If you need to install a new commercial roof, check out these tips. 
Explaining Ratings of Fire Resistant Roofing Materials
The highest rating of roof is Class A, which can endure severe exposure to fire. Class A roofing materials include
concrete or clay roof tiles, which are very common in the Venice and Sarasota area; fiberglass asphalt composition shingles; and metal roofs. Class A roof materials are typically non-combustible, thus deter the spread of flame.
Class B roofing materials include any roofing material which can withstand moderate exposure to fire. This category generally includes treated wood materials. Class B roofs are made of combustible materials which are treated with fire-retardant chemicals. Class C roofing materials are only capable to survive light fire damage. Examples include untreated wood shakes and shingles, plywood or particleboard.
Types of Fire Resistant Roofing Materials
Clay and Concrete Tile: This material is heavy, durable and fireproof, and is the most popular type of roofing in many Venice business complexes. The tiles come in a variety of Mediterranean colors and styles, and are seen throughout the area. These tiles work well on stucco homes, making the entire structure highly resistant to fire damage.
Asphalt Shingle Tile: The next most popular roofing material in this area is asphalt shingle. Traditionally, these shingles are less expensive and although more industrial in look, they fit well into a business environment. These shingles will keep themselves together in flames, and will not break apart and generate smaller burning embers. During a fire event, asphalt shingles prevent flame from spreading to their under layer, which can also withstand a fire burning through the wood deck underneath for several hours.
Slate and Stone: Slate is perhaps the most indestructible of the fire resistant roofing materials, but its installation is rare in this area for a few reasons. Because of the sheer weight, your roof deck will need to be reinforced and braces or trusses may need to be installed. Slate is also more expensive than most materials, Still, sate is known to last 100 years or more and may be a great choice if you are looking for llow maintenance, high quality and beautiful roofing.
Metal: Metal roofing is, not surprisingly, highly resistant to fire. Metal tiles will not ignite when treated with a fire-resistant barrier. Metal roofs are typically made of steel, copper, zinc, and alloys. Metal tiles are non-corrosive, and new innovations allow them to look more like clay tile or wooden shakes if you desire.
Your local roofing contractor is a great resource when deciding on the best type of fire resistant roofing materials. They will help you to sort through the pros and cons of each option, work on your budget, and even provide information which may help with your insurance policy. The experts at [company_name] are here to help – when it is time for a new roof in Venice, Englewood or Sarasota, call us first.
