Summer in Wichita brings long, sunny days and high temperatures. But with the heat and dry conditions comes a serious risk for commercial buildings—rooftop fires. These fires can damage buildings, stop businesses from running, and put people’s lives at risk.
A rooftop fire can also cost a lot of money. Owners may face repairs, higher insurance bills, and the need to upgrade to meet safety codes. Businesses may lose income if they have to close during repairs. The good news is that many rooftop fires can be prevented. By taking simple steps, using the right materials, and getting help from experts, you can protect your property.
At Solid Rock Commercial Roofing, we work with businesses in Wichita, Derby, Newton, Andover, and nearby towns to help keep roofs safe from fire. This article explains rooftop fire dangers and how you can lower the risk.
Key Takeaways
✅ Summer heat, dry weather, and strong winds make rooftop fires more likely in Wichita and nearby areas.
✅ Flat commercial roofs are especially at risk because they can collect debris and house equipment that may spark fires.
✅ Common fire hazards include worn-out electrical equipment, debris buildup, damaged solar panels, and smoking near rooftop access points.
✅ Regular roof inspections (at least twice a year and after major storms) help find and fix fire risks early.
✅ Keeping roofs clean by removing debris like leaves, branches, and trash can greatly lower fire risk.
✅ Rooftop equipment needs proper maintenance to prevent sparks, overheating, or electrical faults.
✅ Choosing Class A fire-rated roofing materials can slow flame spread and protect buildings during a fire.
✅ Limiting rooftop access and enforcing safety rules (such as no smoking) help reduce the chance of fires starting.
✅ Solid Rock Commercial Roofing offers inspections, fire-safe roofing solutions, maintenance plans, and support after fire damage to help protect Wichita-area businesses.
✅ Taking action before fire season peaks protects your property, your people, and your business from the cost and danger of rooftop fires.
Why Rooftop Fires Are More Likely in Summer
How the weather adds to the risk
Kansas summers are hot and dry, and strong winds are common. Temperatures often reach over 90°F for long stretches. The heat and sun dry out roofing materials, making them easier to burn. High winds can spread flames fast if a fire starts.
Summer storms sometimes bring lightning but little rain. A lightning strike can set a roof or debris on fire. Dry plants, leaves, and branches make this even more dangerous.
What makes commercial roofs a fire risk
Flat or low-slope commercial roofs give fire a lot of space to spread. Rooftop equipment, debris, and human activity can raise the danger:
- HVAC and electrical systems: Worn wires, loose parts, or overheating motors can spark a fire.
- Debris: Dry leaves, branches, trash, and packaging can pile up and catch fire easily.
- Solar panels: Damage or poor installation can lead to electrical sparks.
- Smoking: A cigarette dropped near rooftop access can ignite debris.
Real-World Examples
Wichita office building:
An old HVAC unit had a loose wire. On a hot day, it sparked and lit nearby debris. The fire damaged the roof and forced the business to close for repairs.
Newton warehouse:
Debris left on the roof after a storm caught fire during a lightning strike. The fire caused major damage and led to costly repairs.
Andover shopping center:
Solar panels weren’t inspected for years. A loose connection sparked a fire in debris on the roof. Part of the center had to close for repairs.
How to Lower Rooftop Fire Risk
Get regular roof inspections
Checking your roof twice a year—before summer and winter—is a smart way to catch problems early. Inspections should also follow big storms. Look for:
- Cracks or holes
- Loose seals around equipment
- Piles of debris
- Signs of damage to wires or equipment
Infrared cameras can spot hidden heat. Drones can check large roofs or hard-to-reach areas. A written report helps with insurance and shows you’re following safety rules.
Keep the roof clean
Debris acts like fuel for fires. Make a plan to clear leaves, branches, packaging, and trash after storms or windy days. Keep drains and gutters clear so debris doesn’t build up.
Example:
A Wichita shopping center cleared debris after a storm. Later that week, a lightning storm hit. The clean roof helped prevent a fire.
Care for rooftop equipment
Have licensed professionals check HVAC units, solar panels, and other rooftop systems. Solid Rock can work with them during roof inspections. Make sure:
- Wires are secure
- Motors aren’t overheating
- Equipment is clean and working safely
Choose fire-resistant materials
If you’re replacing or upgrading your roof, pick Class A fire-rated materials. These slow flame spread and block heat. Solid Rock offers TPO, PVC, metal with coatings, and other safe options. Coatings can also lower cooling costs.
The right roof depends on your building:
- Warehouses: Strong, single-layer roofs with fire barriers
- Shopping centers: Materials that handle equipment and foot traffic
- Office buildings: Roofs that provide fire safety and energy savings
Set rules for rooftop access
Allow only trained workers on the roof. Post no-smoking signs, and make sure people follow the rules. Teach staff and contractors to spot fire risks and report problems.
Add rooftop fire safety to emergency plans
Test rooftop sprinklers and fire systems to make sure they work. Keep exits marked and clear. Practice fire drills that include what to do if a fire starts on the roof.
How Solid Rock Helps Keep Your Roof Safe
Solid Rock does more than fix roofs. We help prevent rooftop fires.
Fire-resistant roofs
We install roofs that meet fire codes and fit your building’s needs.
Inspections and reports
We find fire risks early and give you reports with photos and clear advice.
Support after fires
If your roof is damaged, we inspect it quickly, work with your insurance company, and plan repairs that meet safety rules.
Local experience
We know Kansas fire risks and weather. Our solutions are designed for local businesses.
Conclusion
A rooftop fire can cause serious damage, but you can help stop it with regular care, safe materials, and clear safety rules. These steps protect your building, your people, and your business.
Solid Rock Commercial Roofing is ready to help with inspections, maintenance, upgrades, and repairs.
👉 Schedule your roof inspection today:
- Visit: https://solidrockcorp.com/contact-us/
- Call: (316) 227-2628
Act now to protect your property before summer risks rise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I have my commercial roof inspected for fire safety?
It’s best to have your roof checked at least twice a year—once before summer and once before winter. You should also schedule an inspection after major storms or strong winds.
What kind of debris should I worry about on my roof?
Dry leaves, twigs, trash, packaging, and any loose material that could catch fire are all concerns. These can act like fuel if a spark or flame reaches them.
Are certain roofing materials better for fire protection?
Yes. Class A fire-rated roofing materials provide the highest level of fire resistance. Options include TPO, PVC, and coated metal systems. These materials slow down the spread of flames and block heat.
Can rooftop equipment cause a fire?
Yes. Equipment like HVAC units and solar panels can cause fires if they have damaged wires, loose parts, or if they overheat. Regular maintenance helps prevent these risks.
What should I do if a fire starts on my roof?
Call 911 right away. Make sure everyone leaves the building safely. Your emergency plan should cover rooftop fires so staff knows what to do. After the fire is out, contact a roofing expert like Solid Rock for an inspection.
How can Solid Rock Commercial Roofing help with fire safety?
We provide inspections, fire-resistant roof systems, help with roof maintenance, and quick support after a fire. We also help you choose the right roofing materials for your building’s fire safety needs.
This article has been a collaboration between Solid Rock Corporation and OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Created on June 30, it combines AI-generated draft material with Solid Rock’s expert revision and oversight, ensuring accuracy and relevance while addressing any AI limitations.
