As wildfires increasingly threaten homes and communities across the country, taking proactive steps to protect your home has never been more important. In our area, places like the New Jersey Pinelands and Poconos are particularly vulnerable. Kevin O’Donnell, owner of O’Donnell Roofing Co., shares insights into how fire-resistant materials and thoughtful construction can help safeguard your home. The segment and accompanying article also include insights from other industry professionals on fire-resistant design and landscaping. To watch the segment or read the full article, click here.
Kevin’s Top Tips for Fire-Resistant Homes
- Class A Fire-Rated Roofing Materials: Kevin explains that modern roofing products, like asphalt shingles, are often designed to provide the highest level of fire resistance. For even greater protection, he recommends materials such as metal and slate. “Natural stone is non-combustible,” he notes, pointing out its long history of durability.
- The Role of Fire-Rated Underlayment: Kevin emphasizes that fire resistance starts beneath the roof’s surface. A fire-rated underlayment is essential to safeguard the wooden structure of the home.
- Fireproof Exterior Finishes: Durable materials like stucco, brick, and stone offer better protection against fire than vinyl siding. Kevin suggests Hardie fiber cement siding as an excellent choice, as it has a flame spread index of zero.
- Enhanced Sheathing for Maximum Protection: For added fire resistance, Kevin recommends pairing exterior finishes with fire-retardant wood sheathing or using products like DensGlass, a fiberglass-covered gypsum board.
By taking these steps, homeowners can better protect their homes and reduce fire risks.
To see additional tips from other experts featured in the segment, click here.
