Exterior Walls & Sidings

Eaves and gutters are often open vulnerable to flames and wind-blown embers.

Wildfires throw off embers that can land on walls and ignite siding. Flammable materials like untreated wood or vinyl can catch fire quickly. Embers can get trapped in cracks, or pass through openings Even radiant heat from nearby flames can warp, crack, or burn siding.

The problem

Exterior siding is non-combustible or ignition-resistant (cement, brick, stone, or metal).

Property Checklist

No vinyl or untreated wood siding is installed.

Do all vents have ember-proof metal mesh?

Siding ends at least 15 cm above the ground.

The exposed foundation wall between siding and soil is non-combustible (concrete, block, or masonry).

All gaps, cracks, and joints in siding are properly sealed to block embers.

Landscaping, mulch, or wood piles are kept at least 5 feet away from siding.

Recommended materials

  • Cement plaster that forms a solid, fire-resistant shell

  • Looks like wood but is made from cement and sand making it fire proof

  • Choose non-combustible or fire-treated insulation

    Non-combustible or fire-treated insulation, e.g. fibre glass, mineral wool or fire treated natural fibres

    or

    Walls built with layers of fire-resistant board, mineral wool insulation, and fire-rated drywall to slow flames and block heat.

  • Steel or aluminium are non-combustible and very resistant to fire.

    Metal siding can also help deflect radiant heat away from the home.

  • Heavy materials, but very good at stopping fire

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