The 4th of July is all about celebrating with friends and family—hosting or attending cookouts, playing yard games, and of course, watching fireworks. But while you’re enjoying the fun, your roof could be at risk. Every year, roofs across the country suffer damage from stray fireworks, falling debris, and rooftop parties. In 2022 alone, firework fires caused an estimated $109M in direct property damage. The good news, though, is that with a few simple precautions, you can protect your home and keep your Independence Day worry-free.
Here’s how to safeguard your roof this 4th of July:
1. Keep Fireworks Away From Your Home
It may seem obvious, but it’s worth emphasizing: never set off fireworks near your house. Even small fireworks can misfire and land on your shingles, potentially igniting a fire or causing burn damage. If fireworks are part of your celebration, head to a professional show or set off your fireworks at a safe distance from your home, where the risk of firework debris landing on your roof is low.
2. Clear Your Roof and Gutters of Debris
Dry leaves and other debris in your gutters or on your roof can act as kindling if hit by a spark. Before the 4th, take a few minutes to clean out your gutters and make sure your roof is free of flammable debris buildup.
3. Give Your Roof a Rinse
It’s harder for a wet roof to catch fire. Before the festivities begin and after you’ve cleared your roof of debris, give the whole surface of your roof a spray down with the garden hose. Make sure to follow our safety precautions if you get up on your roof!
4. Get a Roof Inspection
Fireworks and falling debris can make a small roofing issue much worse. If you haven’t had a recent inspection, look for loose, cracked, or missing shingles and get them repaired before the holiday. Even a brief spark can do serious damage if your roof is already compromised. To be extra safe, schedule an inspection with a professional roofing company before July 4th. At Farha, we always offer free inspections!
5. Be Cautious With Rooftop Gatherings
If you’re planning to watch fireworks from your roof, make sure the structure is safe to support extra weight. Avoid walking on older roofs, and never bring grills, fire pits, or fireworks onto the roof. Safety first, always!
6. Have a Fire Extinguisher Nearby
Accidents can happen, even with precautions in place. Keep a fire extinguisher easily accessible during your 4th of July celebration, and make sure everyone knows where it is and how to use it.
7. Check Your Homeowners Insurance
It’s a good idea to review your coverage before the 4th of July. In the event of roof damage, knowing what your policy covers can save you time and money when filing a claim. At Farha Roofing, we work with your insurance to ensure a seamless claim process.
Celebrate safely and protect your roof this Independence Day! At Farha Roofing, we care about more than just shingles—we care about your safety and peace of mind. If your roof takes a hit this holiday, or you want a quick inspection before the festivities begin, give us a call. We’re here to help keep your home protected all year round.
From our team at Farha Roofing, we’re wishing you a safe, happy, and damage-free 4th of July!
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