The roof that survived

# What happened

In 2025 California experienced widespread wildfires. The state lost 471,207 acres that year, and the Palisades fire accounted for about 23,700 acres of that total. Within the burn areas, some houses were destroyed and others survived. Sharon Barlow's single-story ranch in Altadena was one of the homes left standing.

# How the roof performed

The account connects several factors to the home's survival: the roof's fire rating, stucco walls, other fire-resistant exterior detailing, and favorable wind shifts at critical moments. Photographs accompanying the report show darkened granules where embers hit but no sustained burning.

Stone-coated steel systems like the one installed on Sharon's house are noted to offer additional protections commonly cited by manufacturers and installers: Class 4 hail impact resistance, resistance to hurricane-force winds (the story references the capacity to withstand Category 5 winds), and a fully transferable 50-year limited warranty.

# Local contractor response and market signals

JN Davis Roofing, the contractor on Sharon's project, reports growing local interest in stone-coated steel and other metal roofing options. Owner Robin Thomas said homeowners often assume asphalt shingles or tile are the only options, and contractors are educating them about metal alternatives.

# Why homeowners are upgrading

In the aftermath of high-profile fires, homeowners in fire-prone areas reassess building materials and exterior details. The roof in this story is being replaced again with a new Unified Steel system as part of Sharon's post-fire upgrades. The roofing upgrade is framed as one component of a broader approach to reduce wildfire risk around a home: selecting fire-rated roofing, improving exterior materials, and relying on firefighting work during active incidents.

# Practical takeaways for homeowners and contractors

• Consider whole-house measures: roof material is one part of a defense strategy that should include siding, vents, landscaping, and emergency response plans.

# Bottom line

This Altadena case illustrates how a fire-rated stone-coated steel roof performed under ember exposure during a large wildfire event. It has influenced homeowner choices locally and shows a market shift toward metal roofing options in areas at risk of wildfires.