Fire Protection
Increasing Fire Reliance for Steep Slope Applications
by Richard K. Olson, President & Technical Director, Tile Roofing Industry Alliance
(Editor’s Note: Richard K. Olson is president and technical director for the Tile Roofing Industry Alliance. The association represents industry professionals involved in the manufacturing and installation of concrete and clay tile roofs in the United States and Canada, and works with national, state, and local building officials to develop installation techniques, codes, and standards for better roofing systems. Olson can be reached at rolson@tileroofing.org.)
As the raging fires in Southern California are finally extinguished, this event is shaping up to be one of the costliest natural disasters in history. Some sources indicate that the loss of buildings and infrastructure exceeds $40 billion, with total economic losses potentially reaching upwards of $250 billion. The insurance industry will be significantly challenged as they navigate not only the payout of current claims but also how to mitigate future exposures and implement policy changes to address emerging risks.
As an industry association, we are actively gathering data on how residential and commercial steep-slope buildings performed in hopes of developing new and more fire-resilient installation recommendations. We will be reaching out to legislative bodies, fire safety communities, and code officials to foster collaboration, increase awareness, and establish best practices moving forward.
The urgency of the rebuilding process cannot be overstated, as thousands of properties have been completely lost due to the fires. The integration of greater resiliency measures and the establishment of stricter building codes will be critical and must proceed swiftly. This process will require cooperation between government agencies, industry experts, and community leaders to ensure the adoption of regulations that will improve future fire resilience while remaining cost-effective and feasible for property owners.
Organizations like CAL FIRE have created resources and guidelines to help harden homes against wildfires, and we anticipate that these guidelines may become mandatory through insurance requirements. The expansion of Wildland Urban Interface maps is also expected, potentially encompassing suburban and even urban boundary areas, increasing the number of properties subject to stricter fire regulations. This will require homeowners and business owners to become more proactive in adopting fire-resistant building materials and landscaping techniques to minimize fire risk.
Fire Resiliency Measures for Building Owners
As a building owner, you can take proactive steps now to increase the resiliency of your property. Many of these measures are cost-effective and straightforward to implement, and they align with recommendations from various fire safety organizations. Additionally, these steps may help fulfill future insurance and regulatory requirements. Ensuring compliance with updated fire codes and standards will not only protect properties but also reduce insurance costs in the long run.
Create an Ember-Resistant Perimeter (0-5 feet): Establish a defensible space using hardscape materials such as stone, pavers, or bricks within the first five feet of the building. This significantly reduces ember ignition risk near the structure. Avoid using combustible mulch, wood chips, or dry vegetation in this zone.
Reduce Fuel Sources (5-30 feet): Select fire-resistant vegetation and maintain it properly to reduce the potential for fire spread. Keeping plants green and well-spaced can mitigate fire intensity near buildings. Fire-resistant plant species, such as succulents and low-growing ground covers, can be incorporated into landscaping plans.
Minimize Flame Spread (30+ feet): Remove dead plants, tree limbs, and other combustible materials. Monitor large canopies and flammable landscaping features to prevent fire from advancing toward structures. Installing fire-resistant fencing and maintaining proper spacing between trees can further enhance protection.
Enhancing Steep-Slope Roof Resiliency
At the TRI Alliance, we advocate for the use of Class A-rated roofing materials, such as concrete and clay tiles, which offer some of the highest levels of fire resistance available.
Unlike some other roofing materials, which may only achieve a Class A or B rating with additional fire-rated underlayments, our products are tested and rated as products and full assemblies. The durability and longevity of these materials make them a wise investment for property owners in fire-prone areas. Beyond material selection, proper installation is critical for maximizing fire performance. Consider the following roofing enhancements:
Soffits: Embers commonly enter buildings through soffits. The current recommendation from fire officials is to install a 1/8” screen. An even more robust approach is to close soffit areas and incorporate screened vent holes. For roofing tile systems, ventilated eave and ridge materials can reduce exposure while maintaining proper ventilation. Proper ventilation is essential for energy efficiency and moisture control while also minimizing fire hazards.
Roof Eave Openings: Closing off openings at the eave reduces ember migration. For profiled tiles, preformed bird stops should be installed to prevent embers from entering. Manufacturers offer profile-specific bird stops tailored to their tile designs. Properly installed eave closures can significantly improve the overall fire resistance of a roofing system.
Roof-to-Wall Flashing: In fire-prone areas, using a six inch roof-to-wall flashing above the cladding can enhance fire resistance by limiting fire intrusion points. This measure provides an added layer of protection where the roof meets vertical surfaces, reducing the likelihood of embers gaining entry.
Fire-Responsive Roof Vents: New roof vent technologies are available that react to fire conditions by automatically closing, reducing the risk of ember penetration. These vents contain intumescent materials that expand under extreme heat, effectively sealing off openings and preventing flames from entering attic spaces.
Regular Maintenance: One of the most effective ways to reduce fire risk is through routine inspections and upkeep. Removing debris, dry foliage, and combustible materials from roofs and gutters significantly minimizes ignition sources. Special attention should be given to areas around solar panels, as accumulated debris can increase fire risk and create potential water intrusion points. A well-maintained roof is more likely to withstand environmental stressors and prolong its functional lifespan.
Timely Repairs: Regular inspections allow professionals to identify necessary repairs, assess the longevity of the roofing assembly, and address potential vulnerabilities related to both fire and water intrusion. Addressing minor damages before they escalate can prevent costly repairs and extend the overall performance of the roofing system. Additionally, ensuring that all roof penetrations, such as vents and chimneys, are properly sealed will help maintain fire resistance.
Community and Policy Advocacy: Beyond individual measures, community-wide efforts play a significant role in fire prevention. Advocating for stricter building codes, promoting fire-resistant roofing materials, and supporting local initiatives for fire preparedness can make a collective impact in high-risk regions. Homeowner associations, builders, material experts, and industry stakeholders should collaborate to encourage widespread adoption of fire-resilient construction techniques.
By implementing these best practices, building owners and roofing professionals can contribute to a more fire-resilient built environment. With the increasing prevalence of extreme fire events, proactive measures and enhanced construction standards will play a crucial role in safeguarding properties and communities. Investing in fire-resistant materials, upgrading existing structures, and staying informed about evolving fire codes can collectively reduce the devastating impact of wildfires on residential and commercial properties.
