Firework Roof and Solar Damage Risks: How to Protect Your Property
- Mike Mannion
- Jun 17, 2025
- 5 min read
Updated: Jan 29
It's independence Day in Wisconsin:
Cookouts 🍔
Brats 🌭
Sparklers 🎆
And an unspoken contest to see who can light up the neighborhood sky. 🧨
But while you're looking up, your roof is taking the brunt of what comes down. And that can mean unexpected, oft overlooked damage.
Firework-related roof damage is less common than storm damage, but when it does occur, it usually involves embers, smoldering debris, or delayed ignition rather than obvious impact damage. That difference matters because many roofing issues caused by fireworks aren’t immediately visible from the ground.
Here’s what homeowners and commercial property owners should know about roof and solar panel fire safety during the July 4th holiday.
Why Your Roof is at Risk from Fireworks
Fireworks are festive, but they’re also unpredictable. Embers, sparks, or whole firework shells can land on rooftops and ignite roofing materials, debris, or gutters. In Wisconsin, dry midsummer conditions can increase the risk that when they fall, those embers land on dry, flammable debris.
Why Flat and Low-Slope Roofs Are Especially Vulnerable to Firework Damage
Unlike pitched roofs that shed debris, flat surfaces tend to collect it. Including fire hazards. In Wisconsin, it’s common to see flat or low-slope roofs on homes that have:
Sunrooms
Covered porches
Attached garages or carports
Mid-century modern vibes
Even a small ember sitting on the right patch of dry material can do real damage.
Over the years, we’ve seen some strange damage on flat roofs after the Fourth: burn marks from spent fireworks, small holes from smoldering debris, even areas that looked intact from the ground but failed days later. Almost without exception, these incidents happened on flat or low-slope roofs where fireworks could land, sit, and burn instead of sliding off.
Why Older Asphalt Roofs Are More Prone to Firework Damage
Asphalt shingles are made up of 3 main parts:
Asphalt/tar (flammable)
Fiberglass (somewhat flammable)
Granules, i.e., rocks (not flammable)
As shingles age, or if they become damaged, they shed the protective granules, exposing the flammable tar underneath. This inevitably leaves behind a more vulnerable product. When granules are lost, heat and embers have a much easier path to the flammable asphalt layer beneath.
If your roof is nearing or at the end of its lifespan, you may be more at-risk. Proper maintenance can help extend the life of your roof.
Firework Roof Safety Tips for Homeowners
Before festivities begin, prep your roof. Most firework-related roof damage isn’t caused by a direct hit. Rather, it’s the result of embers landing on flammable debris that’s already there. A little prevention goes a long way.
Clear roof debris before celebrations. Especially around low-slope roof lines and gutters. Dry leaves, pine needles, even bird nests can catch fire.
Clean your gutters before the holiday (dry material + fireworks = risk).
Know the wind direction before lighting any fireworks. Be even more cautious in high or inconsistent wind situations.
Keep a safe distance from your own roof when lighting.
💡 Not sure your roof or gutters are ready for the 4th? We offer gutter cleaning and quick inspections for peace of mind. Call 608-608-1082
Fireworks and Flat Commercial Roofs: What Property Managers Should Know
Commercial roofs don’t get holiday breaks. If you manage a flat-roofed building in southern Wisconsin, especially near neighborhoods, parks, or public event spaces, there’s a good chance it’ll catch some fallout from fireworks on the 4th.
Unlike pitched roofs, flat commercial roofs tend to trap debris. Add synthetic roofing materials, HVAC equipment, and a few stray embers, and you’ve got a recipe for damage that might not be discovered until days later. Especially if the building sits empty over the holiday weekend.
Even a small scorch mark or blistered membrane can lead to leaks or void your warranty down the line.
Many commercial roofing warranties require prompt reporting of heat or fire-related damage, even if leaks are not yet visible.
Firework Roof Safety Tips for Business Owners
Flat commercial roofs are giant landing pads for spent and smoldering fireworks and flammable debris. Don’t give stray fireworks an open runway.
Inspect your flat roof or have a pro do it before the 4th.
Secure rooftop signage or equipment that might attract fireworks or blow embers across the roof.
Talk to neighboring businesses if you suspect firework activity nearby, especially if your building will be closed.
How to Spot Roof Damage After July 4th Fireworks
On July 5th, after the smoke clears, walk the perimeter of your property. Look (and smell) for anything unusual. Not all damage is obvious from the ground. Firework-related damage often presents subtly at first, which is why visual and sensory clues matter. Here’s what to watch for:
Scorch marks or melted areas on shingles or membranes
Charred debris on the roof or in valleys
Smoke stains near attic vents or skylights
Curling shingles or deformed flashing
Gutters clogged with shells, ash, or dry leaves
Minor discolorations
Unfamiliar smells
If you notice anything suspicious, get a free inspection from a roofing pro, rather than climbing up yourself. Rooftop damage may be tricky to spot and risky to inspect alone.
Class A Fire-Rated Shingles vs. Fireworks: What You Need to Know
Many modern, premium asphalt shingles (including the CertainTeed shingles we use) carry a Class A fire rating, the highest level of fire resistance for roofing materials. That’s good news for your home. But even Class A shingles can’t prevent damage if debris ignites or sits smoldering on the surface. Especially when combined with summer heat and dry conditions. It’s still smart to prepare and inspect.
Are Solar Panels or Solar Roofs at Risk from Fireworks?
If your property has conventional rack-mounted solar panels, the exposed wiring or junction boxes can be affected by firework debris.
This is rare, but possible.
Most modern solar systems are designed with fire resistance in mind, but debris accumulation can still pose a risk.
The best way to keep your rooftop solar system safe from fireworks is to:
Make sure there is no flammable accumulation (e.g., leaves, twigs) under your panels before fireworks happen.
Check that there are no smoldering debris on your rooftop after fireworks happen.
However, NEVER attempt to inspect or touch solar components yourself. When in doubt, call your installer or roofing contractor (or us: 608-608-1082).
Sun Vault Roofing's solar-integrated roofing systems use low-profile shingles with no exposed wiring, which means fewer points of vulnerability. It’s just one more reason solar roofing can be a smart, safe upgrade . . . especially if you enjoy being the envy of the neighborhood night sky.
Is Firework Damage to Your Roof Covered by Insurance?
Most policies cover fire damage, but double-check. If you end up needing to file a claim, having a recent inspection and photos can help. Coverage can vary based on cause, documentation, and timing of the inspection.
Don’t Want to Worry? Watch a Public Display Instead
Lighting your own fireworks can be fun, but if you’d rather leave the sparks to the pros (and spare your gutters), here are some local shows worth checking out:
Enjoy the show, support your community, and protect your property all at once.
Peace of Mind, On the House
Fireworks are meant to spark joy, not roof damage. Whether you’re a homeowner or business owner, a free post-holiday roof inspection can help you rest easy after the celebrations.
We offer free post-holiday inspections for homes and businesses. If we spot damage, we’ll explain your options. Trusted expertise, no pressure. Call Sun Vault Roofing 608-608-1082 or Request a Free Inspection!
