Fire Rated Siding

If you live in an area that is prone to wildfires then it s probably a good idea to get fire resistant siding.

Fire rated siding.

While choosing exterior siding fire resistance may not be the first thing that springs to mind. Warnock hersey fire resistance rated wall assemblies warnock hersey product listings standards products are certified against astm iso en can cgsb can ulc 1 hour fire resistive rated wall assemblies click the link above each design number below represents a james hardie 1 hour fire resistive wall assembly jh fcs 60 01. The code requirements for fire resistance of metal panels are logical and not overly burdensome. Rollex navigator steel siding for example has a class a fire rating.

Building with fire safety in mind. Pvc has one of the lowest flame spread ratings meaning that it won t typically contribute to the spread of a fire. While fire resistance won t make your home fireproof fire rated exterior siding will help protect the building and your possessions until the fire department can arrive on the scene limiting damage. Steel siding not only offers protection against a fire it is also naturally resistant and does not require the use of fire resistant treatments.

The highest rating possible for fire resistance. Siding types that are the most highly rated when it comes to fire resistance include fiber cement metal and brick. Most metal panel manufacturers have tested their roof assemblies and most if not all metal panels and shingles can be used in class a fire rated roof systems. A class a rating means it is going to offer the maximum protection possible against fire and will not spread flames.

An alternative to vinyl siding fiber cement a mixture of cement sand and wood fibers manages to achieve very high fire resistance without sacrificing convenience and durability. Facts about vinyl siding according to fire rescue. Many fiber cement products carry a class a fire rating meaning that they can withstand several hours of heat before melting down. Note that most fiber cement sidings require a gypsum board underlayment to reach their maximum efficacy.

Although vinyl is one of the most popular types it s not recommended if your home is at high risk. Fiber cement siding is the only siding on the market to receive a class 1 a rating making it ideal for any property where the threat of fire may be a concern. Vinyl siding is fire resistant harder to ignite and easier to extinguish. Vinyl siding is more difficult than many other building materials to ignite because it is composed mainly of pvc which is inherently flame retardant due to its chlorine base.

Only one brings with it the durability worry free fire resistance that you need to help ensure your home s exterior is protected from the threat of fires.