Professional Guide: How We Assess Your Home's Fire Safety - Part 3: Decks & Patios

When our team arrives for a site visit, we follow a comprehensive assessment approach, starting from the top and working our way down to the foundation. After examining your roof and side walls, we turn our attention to another vulnerable area: your deck or patio.

Deck Materials: Critical Fire Safety Considerations

Fire-Resistant Options (Recommended)

• Composite Decking

  • Made from recycled materials and resin

  • Significantly higher fire resistance than wood

  • Available in various colors and textures

  • Minimal maintenance requirements

  • Higher upfront cost but longer lifespan

• Concrete Decking

  • Steel Under side “pan deck”

  • Highest fire resistance rating

  • Durable and long-lasting

  • Modern designs available

• Concrete Patios

  • Inherently fire-resistant

  • Can be stamped or stained for aesthetic appeal

  • Excellent for ground-level outdoor spaces

Materials Requiring Special Attention

• Pressure-Treated Wood

  • Consider upgrades to more fire-resistant options I.e. Metal post

• Wood Lattice

  • High fire risk due to thin material and air gaps

  • Can act as kindling during a fire event

  • Recommendation: Replace with metal mesh or fire-resistant composite alternatives

Critical Inspection Points

Deck-to-House Connection

• Inspect the ledger board (where deck attaches to house)

• Ensure proper flashing to prevent ember intrusion

• Check for gaps that could trap debris or embers

• Verify fire-resistant construction at connection points

Underneath Deck Spaces

• Clean and Clear Requirement

  • Remove all combustible materials stored under deck

  • Regularly clear leaves, pine needles, and debris

  • Implement maintenance schedule based on surrounding vegetation

• Low-to-Ground Decks

  • Higher risk due to limited airflow and inspection access

  • Consider enclosing with non-combustible skirting

  • Ensure proper drainage to prevent moisture issues

• Wire Mesh Installation

  • Recommendation: 1/8 inch or smaller galvanized steel mesh

  • Install around perimeter of elevated decks

  • Prevents debris accumulation while allowing airflow

  • Blocks animal access (reducing nesting materials)

Deck Furnishings and Accessories

• Keep combustible furniture at least 3 feet from house when not in use

• Store cushions in fire-resistant containers

• Position propane tanks and grills away from structures

• Consider fire-resistant deck boxes for storage

Structural Considerations

Deck Support Systems

• Metal post supports preferred over wood

• Concrete footings should extend above ground level

• Inspect for structural integrity and fire resistance

Railing Systems

• Metal or composite railings recommended

• Wood railings should be well-maintained and sealed

• Glass panels offer fire resistance with unobstructed views

Why This Matters

Decks are particularly vulnerable during wildfire events because:

• They provide horizontal surfaces for ember accumulation

• The space beneath can trap heat and embers

• Traditional wood construction is highly combustible

• They often connect directly to the home

A burning deck can quickly spread fire to your home's main structure, making proper materials and maintenance essential to your family's safety.

Get Professional Assessment

Every deck presents unique challenges based on:

• Construction type and materials

• Elevation and positioning

• Surrounding vegetation

• Local fire codes and regulations

Our team specializes in identifying vulnerable areas and implementing effective solutions tailored to your specific needs.

Contact Us

Schedule your comprehensive site visit today:

• Call or text: (530) 451-6167

• Email: joe@jr2construction.com

• Contact us: Here

Let's work together to protect your home from fire threats.

This is Part 3 of our Home Hardening Assessment series. Read [Part 1: Roof Assessment here] and [Part 2: Side Walls here]