Note: Vents that have been included in a roof covering assembly tested per ASTM E108 to achieve a Class A rating have only been tested for whether they contribute to flame spread, failure/detachment from the roof or production of embers. ASTM E108 does not assess if a vent can resist the penetration of embers or direct flames from wildfires.
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The test method includes measurements of exposed and unexposed surface temperature, as well as the ability of an element or assembly to maintain structural stability, integrity and insulation when exposed to a severe, standard fire exposure. The standard fire exposure simulates severe interior building fire conditions during flashover conditions. Depending how the wall assembly performs against the performance criteria for stability, integrity and insulation, the assembly can achieve anywhere from a 30-min, 1-hour, or up to 4-hour fire resistance rating.
Expansion joints typically consist of a joint cover to protect the joint from weather elements (e.g., water, dirt, dust). The materials used at the expansion joint can consist of a range of combustible and noncombustible materials (e.g., foam, neoprene, sealant, metal). If the materials are combustible or have metal flashing without sufficient, noncombustible thermal insulation, they can present a vulnerability in the wall assembly to embers, hot gases, or flames. Surface mounted covers require a square, clean joint . Be mindful of floor fire barriers above and below for proper transitioning.
Figure 50. Metal flashing between the deck ledger and the siding can protect combustible siding from an ember exposure. Flashing should be tucked behind the siding at the lap joint to prevent moisture from degrading the siding or wall. Image courtesy of InterNACHI.
For decks and other similar features (e.g., stairs) that are at or near grade, these building components are also susceptible to direct flame impingement from surface fuels and other proximate vegetation. Many existing commercial or residential decks are constructed with less expensive, combustible materials such as untreated woods, plastics, and wood-plastic composite products, which are vulnerable to ember and heat exposure in a wildfire event. Decks are often built at the top of a slope, likely in direct line of a wildfire100. Therefore, building and deck orientation must be considered. Embers and firebrands can easily become trapped under and around the deck/patio. Material selection, orientation, design, storage and landscaping practices around the deck are all critical to reducing the risk of ignition of the deck and the home.
The test method includes measurements of exposed and unexposed surface temp erature, as well as the ability of an element or assembly to maintain structural stability, integrity and insulation when exposed to a severe, standard fire exposure. The standard fire exposure simulates severe interior building fire conditions during flas hover conditions. Depending on how the floor assembly performs against the performance criteria for stability, integrity and insulation, the floor can achieve anywhere from a 1 - hour up to a 4 - hour fire resistance rating.
The test method includes measurements of exposed and unexposed surface temperature, as well as the ability of an element or assembly to maintain structural stability, integrity, and insulation when exposed to a severe, standard fire exposure. The standard fire exposure simulates severe interior building fire conditions during flashover conditions. Depending on how the floor assembly performs against the performance criteria for stability, integrity, and insulation, the structural element can achieve anywhere from a 1-hour up to a 4-hour fire resistance rating.
Defensible space is designed to provide a buffer between the building and the wildland that surrounds it. It protects a structure from direct flame impingement, reduces exposure to radiant heat and ember cast, and is essential for structure survivability during wildfires. Defensible space also allows room for fire-fighting operations. Defensible space requirements are typically subdivided into three zones, whereby the highest priorities and most restrictive measures are incorporated in the area closest to the structure or home.9 The most common zones are as follows:
Many fire jurisdictions in high wildfire prone areas will have a list of common plants that are prohibited for use, particularly in the very high fire hazard severity zones of their administrative boundaries. These lists can be anecdotal and so should be evaluated for local relevance and from a holistic and scientific perspective. (See Other References for a sample of these prohibit plant lists).
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