10 ways to harden your home

10 ways to harden your home

By Karen Herreros

We’ve talked a lot about defensible space. Now we are going to talk about 10 ways to harden your home.

When it is time to replace your roof, replace with a fire resistant Class A roof material.

Install noncombustible corrosion resistant metal gutter covers on the gutter to prevent the accumulation of leaves and debris.

Block any spaces between your roof covering and sheathing (bird stops).

Cover your chimney and stovepipe outlets with a noncombustible corrosion resistant material mesh screen (spark arrestor) with 3/8 inch to half inch openings.

Cover all vent openings with 1/16 inch to 1/8 inch noncombustible corrosion resistant metal mesh screens.

Caulk and plug gaps greater than 1/16 inch around exposed rafters and blocking to prevent ember intrusions.

Inspect exterior siding for dry rot, gaps, cracks and warping. Caulk or plug gaps greater than 1/16 inch in
siding and replace any damaged boards, including those with dry rot.

Install weather stripping to gaps greater than 1/16 inch in garage doors to prevent ember intrusion. The stripping must be compliant with UL Standard 10C.

When it’s time to replace your windows, replace them with multi-paned windows that have at least one pane of tempered glass.

When it’s time to replace your siding or deck, use compliant noncombustible ignition-resistant, or other materials approved by the Office of the State Fire Marshall.

Next month: info on the Home Assessment program.

Don’t forget to sign up for emergency alerts. Stay safe. Srfiresafe.org, srfiresafecouncil@gmail.com, (858) 201-3711.