Exterior Walls & Sidings
Eaves and gutters are often open vulnerable to flames and wind-blown embers.
Best Practise
Choose fire-resistant and non-combustible siding materials
……Stucco and fibre cement
…….Brick/stone/concrete
Smooth, solid surfaces are safer than gaps or grooves where embers can lodge
Seal all joints and cracks so no embers can get into the house
Use non-combustible insulation or fire-rated walls to create barriers for extra protection
Keep plants, mulch, and firewood at least 5 ft away from walls.
Apply fire-resistant paints or coatings.
Install fire-resistant trim around windows and doors.
Property Checklist
Exterior siding is non-combustible or ignition-resistant (cement, brick, stone, or metal).
No vinyl or untreated wood siding is installed.
Do 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.
The problem
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.
Do it yourself or contactor
DIY
Cost
……..Metal siding
Difficulty
Contractor
