BAL–FZ Resistant Roof Systems

A small number of homes that have been assessed to be in Bushfire Attack Level FZ will require the use of a roof and eave that comply with Standard by meeting AS 1530 8.2 Test on elements of construction for buildings exposed to simulated bushfire attack – large flame source.

This guide details two roof and one eaves systems that have been tested to meet the requirements of AS 1530 8.2. The roof systems utilise a membrane of 15 mm ECOply over the rafters or trusses with the addition of glass wool insulation. The eaves and fascia system uses a combination of 15 mm ECOply and 16 mm fire rated moisture resistant plasterboard.

The test method utilised is quite a severe test and consequently the requirements for BAL–FZ roof systems resemble fire rated construction commonly used for walls or floors. The level of care and supervision used to construct fire rated systems should also be applied to the construction of bushfire resistant roofs.