The roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of a house in a wildfire, because embers land there first. A Class A rated roof is the highest fire rating for roof coverings under standard testing.
Many Tahoe-area homes sit in high fire hazard zones, where codes can require Class A roofing for new roofs and replacements.
What's included
- Class A metal, asphalt and other rated assemblies
- Replacing untreated wood shake roofs
- Ember-resistant vents
- Non-combustible gutter guards and drip edges
- Sealing gaps at ridges and eaves
- Permit and code compliance
Signs you need this
- An older wood shake roof
- Living in a high fire hazard area
- Insurance asking about roof material
- Pine needles building up on the roof
What the rules say
In California, Chapter 7A of the building code sets wildland-urban interface construction rules, including roofing, in designated fire hazard areas. Nevada jurisdictions around the lake also have wildfire-related building requirements. Your building department can tell you what applies to your address.
More than the roof covering
Embers get in through vents, gaps at the eaves and debris in gutters. Ember-resistant vents, closed gaps and clean gutters matter as much as the roof material.
Class A Fire-Resistant Roofing near you
We cover 25 towns around Lake Tahoe, Truckee, Carson Valley and the US-50 corridor:
Common questions
What is a Class A roof?
Class A is the highest fire-resistance rating for roof coverings under standard fire tests. The rating applies to the tested assembly, not just the material.
Is wood shake allowed at Tahoe?
Untreated wood shake is restricted in many fire hazard areas. Check with your local building department.
Will a Class A roof lower my insurance?
It may help with some insurers, but that depends on the company. Ask your insurer.