Each year, there are an increasing number of wildfires, increasing in intensity and destruction. This is the unfortunate reality we live in, but the good news is that modern technology is making it possible to build increasingly fireproof and fire-resistant homes.

If you live in a fire zone, one easy way to better protect your home from fires and natural disasters is by updating your rooftop deck to be fire-resistant. By utilizing industry-leading porcelain deck pavers and adjustable pedestals, you can achieve a safer outdoor roof deck that is fire-resistant while remaining visually stunning.

1. Remove Combustible Decking Materials

The first step to renovating your roof deck is to remove all wooden and combustible decking materials from the building. Even if your wooden roof deck has been treated with fire-retardant chemicals, it’s still fairly susceptible to ignition.

Instead, if you’re using a deck frame system for your roof decks, utilize steel or aluminum frames for your sub-structure. These are the safest materials possible in case of a fire, and they can still easily accommodate the support requirements of concrete panels and paving tiles.

2. Install Concrete Structural Panels

To further protect your roof decks, install concrete structural panels atop your sub-base. These will support your roof pedestals while preventing anything from falling onto the rooftop directly if a paver breaks.

In case of a fire, this can help slow the fire’s spread and prevent flammable materials from making direct contact with the roof material, potentially igniting the building itself. Just ensure your concrete panels have holes drilled every half inch to allow for adequate water drainage.

3. Utilize Fire-Resistant Roof Pedestals

Once you’ve installed your concrete panels, you can top them with adjustable roof pedestals. These adjustable pedestals are what hold the paving tiles in place, supporting their weight and ensuring that each paver is spaced evenly.

In addition to resisting combustion up to 800 degrees Fahrenheit, Tile Tech’s roof pedestals help secure deck tiles in case of high winds. This can be especially useful for fire prevention during wildfire season, when winds can cause embers to spread for up to several miles.

4. Finish with Porcelain Paving Tiles

Finally, complete your roof deck installation with fire-resistant porcelain deck pavers. Because the tiles are kiln-fired at extremely high temperatures during the manufacturing process, porcelain pavers can withstand extremely high temperatures without cracking or combusting. In addition to their fire resistance, they also do not emit smoke or VOCs when exposed to flames.

Not only are porcelain pavers incredibly fire-resistant, but they’re also visually versatile. They come in hundreds of colors, textures, and finishes, so your safety precautions won’t detract from your roof deck’s visual appeal at all. You can even replicate the appearance of real hardwood without the high risk of ignition in case of a fire. Porcelain deck tiles are the safest non-flammable alternative to wood and natural stone that you’ll find for residential or commercial roof decks anywhere in the country.

No matter what you need to transform your rooftop deck, Tile Tech’s dozens of innovative deck pavers will help you bring your vision to life. Paired with our adjustable pedestals, installation is easy, quick and cost-effective. If you’d like to learn more about Tile Tech’s full range of products and services, including porcelain pavers and roof pedestals, give us a call at (888) 380-5575 or fill out our online contact form. We’re always happy to provide you with a free product sample, catalog or quote for your next project.