How a fire in the attic affects a commercial roof

A fire in the attic of a commercial building can significantly damage the roof, as the attic is a critical structural space directly beneath it. The extent of the damage depends on the fire’s intensity and duration, but these items are the main ways it might compromise the roof.

Structural Compromise

Trusses and rafters are wooden structural components that could burn, char, or weaken, therefore compromising the weight bearing capacity of the roof. Heat and flames can deform, delaminate, or cause collapse in the plywood or OSB sheathing supporting the roof covering.

Damage in roof coverings

On the commercial roof’s outside, strong heat can scorch, melt, or break shingles, tiles, or metal panels. To vent the fire, firefighters could have to cut the roof covering, therefore causing further damage.

Harm from smoke and heat

Even if flames do not immediately reach some areas of the roof, smoke and heat can destroy components like asphalt shingles or insulation, therefore affecting their efficiency.

Damage in water

Large volumes of water used in firefighting operations sometimes saturate insulation, wood, and other components in the attic, causing rot, mold, and additional structural problems.

Ventilation and Insulated Compromise

Fire can ruin insulation, therefore lowering the energy efficiency of the building. Crucially for appropriate attic ventilation, the fire can melt, jam, or destroy roof vents.

Fallibility of Collapse

Should the fire result in major structural damage, portions of the roof could sag or collapse, immediately compromising safety and needing major repairs.

Steps After Fire

A professional commercial roofing contractor or structural engineer should check the roof to evaluate damage and decide what has to be replaced or repaired. Install tarps or other temporary coverings to guard the structure from more weather damage. Repair or Replacement: Trusses, sheathing, and roofing materials may all be replaced depending on the degree of damage; even a complete roof replacement may be included.

Restoring the structural integrity of the roof and avoiding next problems depends on accurate assessment and restoration. If you think your business property may have had an attic fire, call the expert team at Sovereign Storm Solutions for an inspection.