WHY DO SOME HOMES SURVIVE WILDFIRES WHILE OTHERS DON'T?
Why do some houses withstand wildfires while others are severely damaged? Some of the deisgn and construction choices are crucial and can make a dramatic difference. At Lighthouse Design Build Corp., we prioritize incorporating fire-resistant elements into our designs, giving your home the best possible protection against wildfires. Here’s how we do it, step by step:
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Fire-Resistant Roofs
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We use Class A fire-rated roofing materials such as flat roofs with rock membranes, PVC roofs, or metal and steel roofs with specialized underlayment.
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Attic spaces are eliminated to remove ember-prone cavities.
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Non-combustible gutters and downspouts are installed, and a at least a 6-inch non-combustible clearance is maintained at the base of walls
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Such design choices as excluding soffits, overhangs, and eaves help to to reduce fire-prone areas.
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​Fireproof Decks and Fences
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Decks are constructed using wildfire-resistant materials, such as composite decking or fire-treated wood.
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Fences near the home are made from non-combustible materials, such as metal or concrete walls, to prevent fire spread within 5 feet of the house.
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Defensible Space Planning
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We design and maintain a home ignition zone to reduce fire risk:
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Immediate Zone (0–5 feet): Non-combustible materials such as concrete walkways, gravel, and stone are used extensively for hardscaping.
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Intermediate Zone (5–30 feet): Trees and shrubs are spaced to prevent fire spread, and branches are pruned to eliminate ladder fuels.
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Extended Zone (30–100 feet): Dead vegetation and flammable debris are removed to slow fire progression.
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Outbuildings, such as sheds or gazebos, are positioned at least 30 feet away from the home.
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Fire-Resistant Landscaping
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We select and plant fire-resistant vegetation and avoid flammable species like junipers and pines.
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Hardscaping features like concrete walkways, gravel paths, and retaining walls are used extensively to create firebreaks and defensible spaces.
Hardscaping with Concrete
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At Lighthouse Design Build Corp., we incorporate concrete elements not only for their modern aesthetic but also for their superior fire-resistant properties.
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Concrete walls, pathways, and patios provide an additional layer of defense, acting as natural firebreaks and protecting the home’s immediate surroundings.
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Extensive hardscaping with concrete ensures that vulnerable areas are minimized while enhancing the overall design of your property.
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Non-Combustible Walls and Siding
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We use fire-resistant materials such as fiber cement hardy panels, aluminum siding, stucco, brick, or stone to ensure that the home’s exterior is robust against heat and flames.
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Any gaps or cracks are sealed to block ember intrusion.
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High-Performance Windows and Doors
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We install tempered glass or fire-rated windows that can withstand high temperatures and prevent breakage.
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Windows are framed with aluminum to avoid flammable vinyl components.
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Our doors include metal garage doors and tightly sealed, fire-rated exterior doors.
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Under bay windows, we install protective barriers to eliminate vulnerabilitie
​Ember-Resistant Vents
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We install state-of-the-art ember-resistant and flame-resistant vents to block embers from entering attics or crawl spaces, one of the most vulnerable parts of any home.
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Every opening is meticulously sealed to eliminate potential entry points for embers.
Fire-Resistant Interiors
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We install fire-rated drywall (Type X) to enhance the interior’s ability to withstand heat.
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Chimneys, if included, are equipped with spark arrestors to block embers.
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Why Choose Lighthouse Design Build Corp. for Fire-Resistant Construction?
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At Lighthouse Design Build Corp., we go beyond fire code compliance. We incorporate all the additional safety measures outlined above into our designs, ensuring your home is as fire-resistant as possible.
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We also manage the entire approval process, from creating a detailed plan to representing your project with authorities during the plan check. With us, you can trust that your home will exceed safety standards and be built to last.
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Contact us today to learn more about building a fire-resistant home or upgrading your current property!
CONTACT US
Lighthouse Design Build Corporation
License: B-1104715
24851 Via Del Rio, Lake Forest CA 92630