{"id":2153,"date":"2020-12-08T13:18:17","date_gmt":"2020-12-08T18:18:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/trexprotect.com\/au\/?p=2153"},"modified":"2024-04-25T12:07:52","modified_gmt":"2024-04-25T16:07:52","slug":"how-do-you-fireproof-a-timber-deck","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/trexprotect.com\/au\/blog\/how-do-you-fireproof-a-timber-deck\/","title":{"rendered":"How Do You Fireproof a Timber Deck?"},"content":{"rendered":"

When you consider fire dangers around your home, don\u2019t neglect ways to fireproof your deck. Whether you\u2019re using a barbecue or tiki torches, there are several considerations, some small, some larger.<\/p>\n

\"fireFireproofing is essential, especially in light of the early 2020 bushfires that caused mass destruction: Up to 19 million hectares were burnt, with 33 lives lost and around 3,094 homes destroyed. We cannot forget this devastating event, and we all can make a difference by taking steps around our house. Here are several ways you can help reduce risks when it comes to your deck.<\/span><\/p>\n

Attached Decks and Bushfire<\/h2>\n

Timber decks can become fuel for a bushfire, but there are a number of ways to be proactive. You don\u2019t want to be in the line of a bushfire or to start one by carelessly handling fire sources. Here are five quick ways to reduce your risk:<\/span><\/p>\n

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  1. Remove fire fuel<\/span><\/strong>. Whether it\u2019s patio furniture, dried out vegetation or debris, clear off the deck.<\/span><\/li>\n
  2. Never leave a fire unattended<\/span><\/strong>. If you\u2019re grilling, don\u2019t step away. Be sure to completely extinguish the fire when you are done. Depending on the layout of the deck and your fuel source, it may be safest not to have a grill or fire pit on the deck. Check your local regulations, as some areas don\u2019t permit open flames on a deck.<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. Keep water hoses and fire extinguishers nearby<\/span><\/strong>. A Class A fire extinguisher is for ordinary combustibles.<\/span><\/li>\n
  4. Avoid storing logs, petrol, or any other fuel under the deck. Cut back trees and bushes.\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>Create as much defensible space as possible in the event of a bushfire \u2014 keep vegetation at least 9 meters from your home and deck, more if possible (30+ meters is ideal). If you must have plants near your deck, choose those that are most\u00a0<\/span>fire-resistant<\/span><\/a>. Create even more defensible space by landscaping with stone walls, patios, and sidewalks\/roadways.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    Risk Factors\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n

    Decks often catch fire in two ways: 1. A burning branch lands on the deck surface. If there are wide gaps between the decking boards, the airflow can fan the flames. 2. Dried out vegetation on or near the deck catches fire. This situation is especially dangerous if it is lit from underneath. As stated earlier, storing any fuel source beneath the deck \u2014 from petrol to timber logs for the fireplace \u2014 literally fuels the fire.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Protecting Decks, Patios, and Porches<\/h2>\n

    Fire needs oxygen, fuel and heat to spread. The air between your deck boards \u2013 no matter your deck material: timber decking, wood-composite plastic (WPC products) or composite decking materials \u2014 can provide the oxygen and the timber can provide the fuel. Thus, you must lessen the elements needed for spread.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Embers, which include burning twigs and leaves, are the most common way houses catch fire during a brush fire. They can land on debris in your gutters or be blown onto your deck by the wind.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Decks, patios and porches can be protected by following the above guidance and also by enclosing the space below your deck, especially if it\u2019s a two-story deck. Using an under-deck drainage system, the area below your deck can become an enclosed space, which helps to close off any airflow between your deck boards and reduce the chance a fire will spread.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Fireproofing an Existing Timber Deck<\/h2>\n

    To make an existing deck more fireproof, use a flame-retardant spray. You might also add metal sheathing around the base timbers to create more fire-resistant decks. Ask your local home improvement professional for the best recommendation. Additionally, as stated above, be sure to remove combustible materials from above and below the deck.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Look for any decaying timber and replace it immediately.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Protect the ledger board where the house attaches to the deck. Install flashing to create a barrier to embers. Bonus, this also will prevent water from penetrating and rotting this timber.<\/span><\/p>\n

    Build Fireproofing into a New Deck Installation<\/h2>\n

    Check all local building codes when building a new deck. Talk to your builder about the best options for fireproofing and the following considerations.<\/span><\/p>\n