🔄 How Roof‑Mounted Sprinkler Systems Work
Roof-mounted sprinkler systems span 360°, keeping roofs and gutters wet, sometimes extending coverage ~30 ft to damp the siding and landscaping.
Many systems integrate app-based wildfire tracking and auto-activation when fires come within ~2-7 mi—providing early protection before flames arrive. They may use Class A firefighting foam to improve water absorption and reduce overall usage, making them an effective part of wildfire defense services.
✅ Benefits
Proven increases in survival: Studies show homes with roof-mounted sprinkler systems had ~90 % survival rates vs. ~50 % for those without—and full loss dropped from ~45 % to ~5 %.
Real-world success: Frontline reports multiple cases in the Malibu/LA fires where homes were saved with their systems.
Early ember protection: By keeping the home continuously wet, these systems reduce the threat from embers—even before radiant heat arrives, complementing fire hardening upgrades.
⚠️ Limitations & Considerations
Water supply matters: Systems often require 4–8 hours of sustained water; municipal supply may falter during fire events. A secondary source—pool, tank, well—is vital.
Wind affects spray: High winds common in wildfires can disrupt mist patterns, reducing effectiveness.
Not foolproof: If a neighboring home is ablaze, intense radiant heat may overwhelm sprays.
Shouldn’t replace hardening: Roof-mounted sprinkler systems are supplemental—not a substitute—for defensible space, ember-resistant materials, and fire-hardening upgrades.
Manual vs. automated: Manual activation is risky—especially for evacuees. Automation (sensors or wildfire-tracking) improves reliability.
