When it comes to protecting your home or business, few things are as devastating as a fire. In Texas, where hot, dry summers and powerful storms can increase the risk of ignition, choosing fire-resistant roofing materials isn’t just smart — it’s essential. At Rhino Roofers, we build every roof with durability and safety in mind. Whether you’re a homeowner in San Antonio or managing a large commercial property across Central Texas, our fire-rated roofing systems provide lasting protection, peace of mind, and superior performance.
Understanding Fire Ratings for Roofing Materials
Before exploring which roofing materials are best for fire resistance, it’s important to understand how these materials are rated. Roof coverings in the U.S. are classified under UL 790 (ASTM E108) standards and are tested for three levels of fire resistance:
- Class A: Offers the highest level of protection. Can withstand severe fire exposure, resists flames for extended periods, and prevents embers from spreading.
- Class B: Provides moderate fire protection against surface flames and embers.
- Class C: Offers basic fire resistance for light exposure.
At Rhino Roofers, we primarily recommend and install Class A roofing systems, especially for commercial properties and residential homes in wildfire-prone or high-heat areas. Class A materials provide superior resistance to flame spread and are often eligible for insurance premium reductions.
Top Fire-Resistant Roofing Materials Installed by Rhino Roofers
Different roofing materials perform differently when exposed to heat and fire. Below are the top-rated systems that Rhino Roofers uses for fire-resistant residential and commercial roofing.
1. Metal Roofing
Fire Rating: Class A
Ideal For: Residential, commercial, and industrial properties
Metal roofs are one of the most fire-resistant roofing options available. Unlike wood or asphalt shingles, metal doesn’t ignite or melt easily under high heat. Rhino Roofers installs standing seam metal roofs and metal panel systems that not only look stunning but also provide exceptional longevity, energy efficiency, and fire resistance.
In addition to their fireproof nature, metal roofs reflect heat, keeping interiors cooler and reducing energy costs. When combined with one of our premium coatings — such as rubberized aluminum or acrylic — your metal roof gains even more protection against corrosion, UV damage, and oxidation.
2. Tile Roofing (Clay and Concrete)
Fire Rating: Class A
Ideal For: Residential homes, historical buildings, and luxury properties
Clay and concrete tile roofs are naturally non-combustible and provide some of the best fire resistance on the market. These materials are heavy and dense, meaning they can absorb and slow down heat transfer.
At Rhino Roofers, our expert tile installers ensure proper underlayment, spacing, and deck reinforcement for these roofs — all of which are critical to maintaining their Class A rating. When properly installed, tile roofing not only protects your home from fire but also withstands hail, high winds, and Texas heat with minimal maintenance.
3. Modified Bitumen Roofing
Fire Rating: Class A (when installed with fire-rated underlayment)
Ideal For: Flat and low-slope commercial buildings
Modified bitumen is a hybrid asphalt-based system reinforced with polymers for flexibility and strength. When combined with fire-retardant coatings or protective surfacing layers, it can achieve a Class A fire rating. Rhino Roofers frequently recommends this option for commercial buildings that require waterproofing, durability, and enhanced fire safety.
Its layered design not only resists flames but also prevents fire from penetrating through to the insulation and deck. We often finish these systems with acrylic or asphalt-based coatings to add reflectivity and UV protection.
4. TPO and PVC Roofing Membranes
Fire Rating: Class A
Ideal For: Commercial and industrial facilities
Single-ply membranes like TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride) are increasingly popular for commercial roofing. Both materials are inherently fire-resistant, making them excellent choices for flat or low-slope buildings.
Rhino Roofers installs TPO and PVC systems that are heat-welded at the seams, creating a watertight and flame-retardant bond. PVC roofing, in particular, contains fire-suppressing properties that self-extinguish flames once the source is removed. When combined with proper insulation and decking, these systems offer long-term fire protection and energy savings.
5. Urethane Roofing Systems
Fire Rating: Class A (with proper topcoat)
Ideal For: Medical facilities, schools, and high-traffic commercial properties
Urethane roofs are another outstanding option for properties needing chemical, weather, and fire resistance. Rhino Roofers applies urethane coatings as part of our restoration and new construction services to create seamless, watertight surfaces that resist ignition and prevent fire spread.
These systems are particularly useful in environments where equipment, vents, or exhaust systems could generate sparks or high heat.
6. Spray Foam Roofing (SPF)
Fire Rating: Class A (with topcoat)
Ideal For: Flat commercial roofs and retrofits
Spray polyurethane foam roofing forms a monolithic layer that insulates, seals, and protects. While SPF alone is not inherently fireproof, Rhino Roofers applies fire-retardant coatings such as acrylic or silicone over the foam to achieve a Class A fire rating.
This system’s seamless nature means there are no joints or gaps where flames can penetrate, making it both energy-efficient and fire-resistant when installed correctly.
The Role of Roof Coatings in Fire Protection
Roof coatings not only extend roof life and enhance energy performance — they also play an important role in fire prevention and containment. Rhino Roofers uses several coating options that help resist ignition and reduce flame spread:
- Asphalt-Based Coatings: Dense and durable, asphalt coatings protect metal and built-up roofs by forming a thick, fire-resistant surface layer.
- Acrylic Coatings: These elastomeric coatings reflect sunlight and slow heat transfer, reducing the likelihood of ignition.
- Rubberized Aluminum Coatings: The reflective aluminum content helps dissipate heat, while the rubberized layer resists cracking, rust, and flame spread.
Our team strategically matches each coating type with your roofing system to balance performance, budget, and safety.
Fire Safety Starts with Proper Roof Deck Construction
Even the best roofing material needs a solid foundation. The roof deck plays a critical role in fire performance. Rhino Roofers inspects and reinforces every deck we install or repair, ensuring it meets structural and safety requirements.
Deck materials we often work with include:
- Metal decking – Excellent for fire resistance and durability
- Concrete decking – Naturally non-combustible and ideal for large commercial properties
- Plywood or wood decking (fire-treated) – Used for specific applications where weight or insulation is a concern
By pairing the right deck material with a Class A-rated roofing system, we create a complete fire-resistant assembly built to protect your property and the people inside it.
Additional Fire Safety Measures
Choosing fire-resistant roofing materials is one step — maintaining them is another. Rhino Roofers offers ongoing maintenance programs to help you preserve your roof’s integrity and fire resistance. Key best practices include:
- Removing debris such as leaves and branches that could ignite.
- Inspecting flashings and seams to prevent gaps where embers can enter.
- Cleaning gutters to reduce flammable buildup.
- Reapplying coatings on schedule to maintain Class A performance.
We also recommend periodic roof inspections, especially after storms, to ensure fireproof layers and coatings remain intact.
Why Rhino Roofers Is San Antonio’s Leader in Fire-Resistant Roofing
At Rhino Roofers, safety and strength come standard. Our team combines premium materials, certified installation, and deep experience with Texas weather conditions to create roofing systems that stand up to the toughest elements — including fire.
We are proud to be an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor and a 2024 DECRA Project of the Year award winner, reflecting our commitment to craftsmanship and protection. Whether you need a new roof for your business or a fire-resistant upgrade for your home, Rhino Roofers delivers long-lasting results backed by our Rhino Guarantee.
Protect What Matters Most with a Fire-Resistant Roof from Rhino Roofers
Don’t wait until after a fire to think about prevention. With fire-resistant roofing materials from Rhino Roofers, you can protect your property, reduce insurance risks, and gain the peace of mind that comes with expert construction.
Our San Antonio-based team specializes in designing and installing roofing systems that combine strength, safety, and sustainability. Schedule your free 37-point roof inspection today and let Rhino Roofers help you build a safer, more resilient roof — one that’s ready for anything Texas weather brings.