Throughout the United States, wildfires have become an increasing threat. In 2024, there were 64,897 wildfires recorded in the country, which is a 14% increase from the previous year. While you can’t guarantee your property won’t be exposed to the natural disaster, there are ways you can reduce the risks. This starts with choosing the right roofing for your house.
When it comes to fire resistance, one of the best options is metal roofing. Unlike other roofing materials (such as asphalt shingles or wood shakes), it doesn’t ignite easily and can withstand much hotter temperatures.
But are metal roofs fireproof? What makes them such a great choice for areas prone to wildfires? Let’s find out!
Prevents embers and sparks
Flying embers and sparks are one of the main ways properties catch fire during wildfires. What’s great about metal roofs is that they’re designed to prevent this from happening. Their smooth, non-porous surface makes them less likely to catch fire from the embers. Moreover, during the installation process of metal roofs, contractors usually use fire-resistant underlayment and flashing, which provide an extra layer of protection for your home.
More durable in harsh conditions
When it comes to durability, metal roofing is considered one of the best. Compared to other materials, metal can withstand harsh weather conditions, including heavy snowfalls, high winds, and extreme heat, which is why it’s a great solution for homes in wildfire-prone areas. Moreover, metal roofs don’t degrade as quickly as other options on the market, such as asphalt, so they are less susceptible to fire as they age.
This durability also means that homes with metal roofs are less likely to experience damage due to strong winds or falling debris, which can further spread the fire.
High melting point
Metal roofs can be made of many different materials, some more durable than others. What they all have in common is that they’re intrinsically fire-resistant. Whether you choose roofing made from copper, steel, aluminum, or zinc, all of these options have high melting points. This means they can withstand high temperatures without the risk of compromising your home’s structural integrity.
Great reflectivity
Did you know that metal roofing has a high reflectivity? Thanks to this, the roofing material can reflect a significant amount of heat away from the building. Consequently, the risk of your property catching fire due to heat buildup is lower.
So, are metal roofs fireproof?
Considering all this, you’re probably wondering: are metal roofs fireproof? Despite being highly fire-resistant, they’re not immune to fire (frankly, no building material is; anything can get hot enough to be destroyed). Although metal roofing won’t ignite, extreme heat can still damage it. In extreme fire conditions, this kind of roofing can still melt or warp. Nevertheless, it offers superior fire resistance compared to other options on the market.
What about other roofing materials?
Nowadays, with so many types of roofing available, we’re spoilt for choice. Each option has pros and cons, so it’s important to consider your priorities as a homeowner. If you’re looking for roofing with more fire-resistant properties, metal roofing is the best. For comparison, asphalt shingles are typically made from petroleum-based products, which can ignite and spread fire easily.
The same goes for wood shingles. While they might be more aesthetically pleasing than metal roofs, they are highly combustible, which is why they’re not the best pick for areas with wildfires.
Tile and slate roofs offer better fire resistance; however, they come with a heftier price tag. This is also true for concrete tiles. While they offer good fire resistance, they’re not as long-lasting as metal roofs.
Final thoughts: Are metal roofs fireproof?
The evidence is clear: wildfires are becoming more frequent throughout the US due to various factors. This means protecting your home from fire threats is more critical than ever. While no built structure can escape fire damage under all conditions, nowadays, there are plenty of construction materials that can significantly improve your home’s protection.
Metal roofing is an excellent solution that doesn’t just help with fire resistance – it’s also one of the most durable and long-lasting roofing materials on the market. If you’re looking for a roof that will last you at least 30 years, won’t break your bank, requires almost no maintenance, and can endure even the most extreme weather conditions, it won’t disappoint!
Want to learn more? Use our metal roof cost calculator to estimate your roof replacement costs in seconds and explore financing options to make your project more affordable.
Fact Checked by Lita Legzdina on 04/06/2025