Protecting Homes Amid California’s Devastating Wildfires

Protecting Homes Amid California’s Devastating Wildfires
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In an age of climate crisis after climate crisis, now is the time to get real about protecting houses from wildfires. Download this primer for a step-by-step guide.

GB-NFPA-eBook-1-instaAs wildfires rage through parts of California, including the Los Angeles area, homeowners and communities face the urgent challenge of safeguarding their properties against nature's fury. The latest fires highlight the growing need for resilience in the face of climate change, particularly in regions prone to recurring blazes. Learning from past disasters, like the 2018 Carr Fire, can provide valuable insights into how thoughtful design and preparation can make all the difference.

Randall and Jill Hauser are often told they were “lucky” their home survived the 2018 Carr Fire when their neighborhood was nearly wiped out. But Randall, CEO and founder of ENPLAN, attributes their home’s survival to strategic design and fire-resistant measures. Drawing from decades of experience in environmental planning and wildfire resilience, Randall designed a home that stands as a testament to proactive preparation.

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Here are 10 defense mechanisms to help protect homes against wildfires, inspired by the Hauser home. Download our fire-wise eBook and for more details

  1. Landscape for Fire Protection. Keep plants at least five feet from the home, use non-combustible materials like gravel or pavers, and opt for fire-resistant vegetation.
  2. Incorporate a Water Supply. Install emergency standpipes, hose extensions, and sprinklers, or use smart irrigation systems to maintain moist surroundings.
  3. Choose Fire-Resistant Siding. Materials like stucco, steel, fiber cement, or brick can withstand fire better than traditional wood siding.
  4. Opt for an Ember-Resistant Roof. Metal roofs with proper soffits and fascia can prevent burning embers from igniting the home.
  5. Use Non-Combustible Insulation. Insulation like Rockwool stone wool adds another layer of fire protection by slowing heat transfer and preventing ignition.
  6. Install Metal Doors. Metal garage and fire doors, combined with weather-stripping, can block flames and embers from entering.
  7. Cover VeUse 1/16-inch to 1/8-inch metal mesh on vents and chimneys to keep embers out.
  8. Use Dual-Paned Windows. Tempered glass and dual-paned windows resist shattering and provide a barrier against heat and embers.
  9. Keep Roofs Clean. Regularly clear debris from roofs and gutters to prevent potential ignition points.
  10. Maintain Your Grounds. Remove dead vegetation, prune trees, and keep grass short to reduce fire hazards.

Randall emphasizes the importance of redefining aesthetics: "When a built feature reduces wildfire risk, it must also be seen as beautiful. For us, this mindset shift has been an exciting, mind-expanding, and satisfying adventure."

As California and other states face increasingly severe wildfire seasons, these practical steps offer a pathway to resilience for homeowners, architects, and communities alike.

Download this free eBook for detailed information on fire-wise home building.