Home preparation is the first step in safeguarding against wildfire devastation, especially if you live in a wildfire-prone zone. As the old saying implies, “prevention is better than cure,” and this principle applies perfectly here. What if you could prepare your home for these challenges with fire-resistant coatings? These coatings form a protective barrier when exposed to high temperatures, particularly during wildfires.
They delay ignition, reduce heat transfer, and slow the spread of flames. When applied to a building, they act as a crucial layer of defense against embers and radiant heat, two leading causes of home ignition during wildfires. In this blog, we will discuss how to prepare your home for a wildfire season with fire resistant coatings.
Preparing Homes for Wildfire with Fire-Resistant Coatings
Approximately 115 million people, one-third of the U.S. population, live in high-risk wildfire areas. This makes fire-resistant coatings a necessity, not just an option. Here’s how you can protect your home:
Assess Your Home’s Vulnerability
Start by checking the high-risk areas of your home where flames or embers could easily catch fire, especially as wildfire season approaches. Wooden siding, eaves, and decks are especially vulnerable because they’re exposed to heat and flying embers. Roof edges, vents, and fences are also significant risks, as embers can land on them and even enter your attic. Once you recognize the weak spots, you can focus on applying fire-resistant coating.
Choose the Right Fire-Resistant Coating
Not all fire-resistant coatings function in the same manner. Opt for exterior-grade formulas designed to withstand high heat, such as Firefree’s FFE Coating. You can also ensure the product has certifications, such as ASTM or NFPA 276 compliance, which indicates that it actually works. Also, think about how long it lasts. Some coatings hold up for 5 to 10 years before needing a fresh coat, which saves you money in the long run.
Prepare the Surface the Right Way
To ensure the coating adheres and performs its intended function, you must prepare the surface properly, an essential step in preparedness for fire. Start by cleaning off dirt, grease, and any old, flaking paint or coating. Sand down rough spots to smooth them out, and if the manufacturer recommends using primer, don’t skip it. Cutting corners here can weaken the coating’s fire resistance, so take your time and do it right.
Apply Multiple Coats
For the best protection during wildfire season, follow the manufacturer’s instructions and apply 2 to 3 coats. Use a brush, roller, or sprayer to cover everything evenly, and pay extra attention to cracks and seams where embers could sneak in. Allow each coating to dry fully before applying the next. This ensures the coating remains durable and fire-resistant.
Keep Up with Maintenance
Fire-resistant coating doesn’t last forever; you’ve got to stay on top of it as part of ongoing wildfire prep. Check treated areas annually for cracks, peeling, or damage, especially after severe weather. Depending on the product, you may need to reapply every few years to maintain your home’s protection. Staying ahead of maintenance means your house stays safer against wildfires.
Benefits of Home Prep with Fire-Resistant Coatings
Fire-resistant coatings offer significant benefits when considering wildfire prep for your home. Some of them are listed below:
Increased Evacuation Time
A key advantage of fire-retardant coatings is their ability to delay ignition and slow flame spread. During a wildfire, embers and radiant heat can ignite homes within minutes. However, surfaces treated with these coatings resist immediate combustion, creating a buffer that can help contain the fire’s progression. This delay is crucial for wildfire season safety, as it provides extra time for residents to evacuate and for emergency responders to intervene.
An Affordable Fireproofing Alternative
When planning wildfire prep, many homeowners assume that only costly renovations, such as installing fire-resistant siding or tempered glass, can make a difference. However, fire-retardant coatings offer a cost-effective alternative that delivers strong protection without extensive modifications. Easy to apply and requiring minimal maintenance, these coatings are an accessible option for homeowners looking to strengthen their preparedness for fire on a budget.
Compatibility with Multiple Building Materials
Another major benefit of fire-retardant coatings is their versatility. They adhere effectively to wood, concrete, metal, and other common construction materials, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether used on exterior walls, roofing, decks, or structural supports, these coatings can be easily incorporated into different home designs.
Conclusion
Preparing your home with fire-resistant coatings is a proactive and cost-effective way to enhance wildfire resilience. By assessing vulnerabilities, selecting the appropriate coating, and applying it properly, homeowners can significantly delay ignition and protect their property.
At Firefree Coatings, we provide Firefree 88®, Firefree Class A, and Firefree Exterior System to ensure your home meets the highest standards of fire resistance. Our coatings are ASTM-certified, fully tested, eco-friendly, and LEED-compliant, offering reliable protection while aligning with sustainable building practices. Contact Us Today!