Foam Gutter Guards
Do Not Use!!
FIRESafe MARIN strongly discourages the use of foam insert gutter guard materials, even if the manufacturer makes claims related to fire-resistance. In our informal testing, these materials were highly combustible, ignite easily, and spread fire rapidly. We've contacted the California State Fire Marshal and Consumer Product Safety Commission to ask for assistance in removing these products which are being aggressively marketed to homeowners in the WUI.
In this video, a small amount of leafy debris was applied to DAMP foam gutter guard, sold at Home Depot with "Fire Resistant" in the product's name! Although the leafy material barely sustained flame, the foam material ignited readily and sustained combustion, exhibiting 12-16" flames and emitting acrid black smoke.
Decayed Soffit
Fire Hazard
As shown in the photograph below, the roof deck boards in this eave overhang area are decayed. These boards would be more easily ignited if debris in the gutter ignited, In this case, angle flashing at the roof edge was used, but the poor condition of the roof would still make this a vulnerable area.
Gutter Guard Protection
Fire Hazards
Gutter guards or covers can be installed over or in your gutters. When properly installed (and maintained), these can reduce the amount of vegetation litter and debris that accumulate in your gutter and therefore reduce the need to clean it. Some products can become dislodged over time, and they will have to be reinstalled when this happens. Some products can result in the accumulation of debris on the roof, behind the gutter. There are a number of commercially available products specifically intended for this purpose - just type gutter guard in a web-browser search engine to get an idea of the available products. To date, there isnt a standard procedure to evaluate the performance of these products.
Gutter Debris
Fire Hazard
Note that some of the covers in the gutters on this roof have dislodged, and therefore no longer keep out debris. Gutter guards should be inspected regularly, and reattached when necessary.
The following photograph shows debris that has accumulated behind the gutter cover. This Class A roof covering will be able to handle the fire if this debris is ignited by embers, but because of the proximity to the roof edge, this debris should be removed from the roof.
Roof & Gutter Cleaning
Safety Tips
Be safe! Hire a professional if you are unsure or lack the proper tools. Some roofing materials can be damaged if you walk on them, and every roof poses a fall hazard.Always use a sturdy, well-footed ladder to reach your roof and gutters.Don't clean your roof alone. Be sure there is someone with you, on the ground, to help when needed.Check your roof.
Is it well maintained? Is the roofing made from a fire resistant (Class "A") material like tile, composite shingles, or tar and gravel? It can be difficult to tell whether you have a Class A fire-rated roof, unless its made of an obviously noncombustible material, such as tile. If you are not sure about your roof, schedule a professional roof inspection to find out.Always keep your roof clean of debris. Clean it as often as necessary during fire season. Remember: even a tiny handful of leaves is enough to burn your home!Check your gutters. Metal gutters are safest, and all gutters must be maintained completely free of leaves, needles, and vegetation during fire season (and the rainy season too, or course). Like the rest of your roof, you may need to clean them more often during the summer if you live in an area where leaves are likely to fall onto your roof.