Fire Rated Exterior Siding

While choosing exterior siding fire resistance may not be the first thing that springs to mind.

Fire rated exterior siding.

A class a rating means it is going to offer the maximum protection possible against fire and will not spread flames. 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. Not only do these tough exteriors stand up well to wind rain hail and sleet they re also very fire resistant. These wood products undergo a processing step whereby these chemicals are fixed or otherwise contained to prevent or minimize leaching of the chemical.

Aluminum and steel siding are virtually peerless when environmental hazards strike. James hardie siding is mostly made up of sand and cement which makes it highly resistant to fire. Although vinyl is one of the most popular types it s not recommended if your home is at high risk. Most metal siding is rated as noncombustible which means that in fire safety testing it was shown not to ignite and spread fires.

Exterior rated fire retardant treated frt wood products are pressure impregnated with chemicals that improve the fire performance characteristics. It also allows for the use of fiberglass insulation. 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. Note that most fiber cement sidings require a gypsum board underlayment to reach their maximum efficacy.

The highest rating possible for fire resistance. Fiber cement shingles and clapboards made from a mix of portland cement sand and wood usually carry a class a fire rating which means they can withstand 2 to 4 hours of high heat before your home s structure starts to fail. This assembly is fire rated for 1 hour from the interior side only except when brick is the exterior facing. Is hardie siding fireproof.

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. Steel siding not only offers protection against a fire it is also naturally resistant and does not require the use of fire resistant treatments. Siding types that are the most highly rated when it comes to fire resistance include fiber cement metal and brick.