Published by Ark Design Construction & Roofing · Updated November 6, 2026
In a wildfire, flying embers land on roofs, so the roof is one of the most important parts of a home to get right. Class A is the highest fire rating for roof coverings. Many metal roofs, composition shingles and tile products can earn it, and untreated wood shake generally cannot. Check the rating of the exact product, and check your local rules.
Why the roof matters in a wildfire
Many homes are lost to wildfire because burning embers blow ahead of the fire, land on a roof or in a gutter, and ignite something. A roof that resists ignition and a roof edge that does not collect debris both help.
What is a Class A roof?
Class A is the highest fire rating for roof coverings. Products that can earn it include many metal roofing systems, many composition shingles, and concrete and clay tile. Untreated wood shake generally does not, and treated shake has its own conditions. The rating can depend on how the whole roof is assembled, so ask for the rating of the exact product and assembly, in writing.
Other things that help
- Gutters and valleys. Keep leaves and pine needles out. Debris in a gutter is fuel for embers.
- Vents. In many wildfire-prone areas, building code calls for ember-resistant vents. Ask your roofer and your building department.
- Roof edges and flashing. Gaps let embers in.
- Nearby trees. Trim branches that overhang the roof.
- Defensible space. The area around your home matters as much as the roof. Your local fire agency can tell you what is required.
Rules in your area
Requirements depend on where your property is. Many parts of Shasta County fall in fire hazard severity zones, which can bring stricter building rules. Check with your city or county building department, and with CAL FIRE for your zone.
What Ark can do
Ark installs metal, composition shingle and concrete tile roofs, installs gutters and screens, and does roof inspections. Tell us the address and what you are worried about, and we will go over your options. We do not promise that any roof will survive a wildfire. We can help you choose a roof built to resist it.
Common questions
What is a Class A roof?
Class A is the highest fire-resistance rating for roof coverings under common testing standards. Check the rating for the exact product and for how the roof is assembled.
Can I still have a wood shake roof?
Rules vary by location and wood shake can be restricted in fire-prone areas, and it usually needs fire-retardant treatment. Check with your local building department and your insurer before choosing it.
Does my roof type affect my insurance?
It can. Ask your insurance company how roof material and condition affect your coverage or your premium.
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