How to Protect Your Home from Wildfires

23 February 2016
 Categories: , Blog


If you live somewhere that gets wildfires often, you need to protect your home. You may not be able to prevent that wildfire from entering yur neighborhood, but you might be able to save your home with these easy methods.

Install Fire Resistant Roofing

Many homes catch fire because of the roof, especially if it is made of wood or other materials that easily catch fire. One great way to protect your home is by having fire-resistant roofing materials installed. For example, most clay tiles are fire-proof, meaning they will never catch fire if there is one that comes close to your home. You can also have slate or metal installed on your roof. All of these materials are heavier than asphalt and wood, so you may need reinforcements installed first, followed by the roofing materials.

Remove Debris From Around Your Home

It is also very important that you take the time to remove all debris from around your home. This debris can quickly catch on fire, which will then put your home at risk. Start by keeping all bushes and trees well trimmed. If you notice any dead leaves or branches, cut them and dispose of them properly. Dead greenery can quickly become combustible. You also want to move firewood and dry grass from your yard, especially when it is close to your home's structure. If you have firewood, it is best to keep it inside a fire-proof shed or other structure.

Have the Chimneys Inspected

If you have a fireplace in your home, it needs to be inspected on a regular basis. This includes keeping your chimney cleaned out. If there is a lot of ash built up inside the chimney and fireplace, it can increase your risk for fire as it is combustible material. Your dampers should also be in good condition. You should have a chimney and spark arrester that follow local fire guidelines, which a fire expert will be able to determine for you. Make sure you clean out the fireplace on a routine basis.

Have Better Windows Installed

If you have low-quality, single-pane windows, they might put your home at risk of fire. If the glass is thin enough, fire can get through the windows and cause your curtains to start fire. The best thing you can do is have weather-resistant windows installed. This often includes double or triple-pane windows. Also choose the window frames wisely, such as going with fiberglass or aluminum as opposed to wood window frames.


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