It’s that time of year when Americans celebrate Independence Day by enjoying firework displays, whether in professional shows or not-so-professional backyard displays. But as Sir Issac Newton taught us, what goes up must come down.

Fireworks can lead to a multitude of problems for homeowners and property owners alike, whether it’s debris collecting on rooftops to hot embers landing on roofs and igniting fires.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks caused an estimated 31,302 fires in 2022, including 3,504 structure fires. They resulted in an estimated six civilian deaths, 44 civilian injuries and $109 million in direct property damage.

Thankfully, some foresight and precautions can prevent such accidents. We scoped out advice posted by roofing contractors, some of whom are previous Top 100 entrants, and compiled our findings here so you can educate your customers around the Fourth of July and beyond. 

Not only can it prevent accidents, but educating customers is a key branding and marketing effort that builds trust and name recognition.

Preventing Fires

Perhaps the worst-case scenario is a firework lighting a roof on fire. It could be from dry conditions or dried-up debris on the roof, but the possibility is there when literal fire and sparks are raining down from the sky.

Best Choice Roofing of Tennessee has a simple suggestion for those worried about dry conditions: get your roof wet.

“Use a garden hose and water down your roof before the show begins!” the company says.

Other suggestions include everything from laying down a fire-resistant tarp on roofs to general fire safety practices: have water or a fire extinguisher on hand, and monitor the area around the roof while fireworks are active to spot any potential fire-inducing sparks.

Raincoat Roofing of Chicago posted advice on LinkedIn that even roofers should be aware of: just because some roofing materials are fire-resistant, it doesn’t mean there is no risk of a fire occurring.

“Stray debris, such as leaves and twigs, can catch fire from a single spark, quickly turning into a blaze,” they said.

Northpoint Roofing Systems of Woodstock, Ga., says trimming tree limbs and branches is another way to prevent damage to roofs and fires caused by wayward fireworks.

“You can take a major step to protect your roof by simply cutting the branch back so there is less danger of the branch coming in contact with your roof if it catches fire from a firework,” they said.

Clean Up Debris

Perhaps the most common but overlooked issue caused by fireworks is the debris they generate. After launching into the air and exploding, fragments of fireworks fall back to the ground and onto roofs.

As roofing companies will attest, debris on roofs can lead to blocked drainage channels, which in turn lead to water collecting on the roof and damaging it. In other cases, the debris can cause stains or discoloration, or even damage roofing materials, reducing the roof's lifespan.

Elite Roofing & Restoration of Cumming, Ga., suggested people choose a flat, spacious area that is away from trees and buildings when setting off fireworks.

“The further away the fireworks, the less likely it is that debris will land on your roof,” they said.

This might not be possible in tightly packed suburban neighborhoods or cities. That being the case, Elite Roofing says customers should look into cleaning their roofs and gutters ahead of time before setting off fireworks near structures.

Address Punctures

Certain fireworks are so powerful that they can damage or break roofing materials like asphalt shingles. Similar to the advice Elite Roofing gave, Ja-Mar Roofing & Sheet Metal in Austin, Texas says the best way to avoid fireworks damaging a roof is to light them away from buildings.

“The best way to protect your roof and avoid costly repairs is to keep fireworks away from your roof. If you must use fireworks, be sure to do so in an open area away from homes and businesses,” the company said on its website.

If new cracks or holes are discovered, Ja-Mer Roofing says they should be addressed right away to prevent further damage.

Spotting Firework-based Damage on Roofs

The experts at Ridgeline Construction HSV of Huntsville, Ala., say when inspecting a roof for potential damage, keep an eye out for typical wear-and-tear like missing or cracked shingles, but also look for burn marks and soot.

“Fireworks can cause burn marks on your roof, which can be easily spotted. If you notice any dark spots or discoloration on your roof, it could be a sign of fireworks damage,” the company said. “Fireworks can cause smoke and soot to accumulate on your roof. If you notice any smoke or soot on your roof, it could be a sign of fireworks damage.”

Ridgeline encourages customers to have reputable professionals evaluate a roof if there are signs of damage.

Roofs Aren’t Bleachers

It can be tempting to find an elevated seat to watch neighborhood fireworks shows. However, Whirlwind Roofing & Construction in Bixby, Okla., says people shouldn’t climb onto roofs to get a better view of the night sky.

“It is too dangerous and you could easily slip and fall,” Whirlwind Roofing says.