Structure Hardening

"Structure Hardening" refers to making physical modifications to a building or structure using fire-resistant materials and construction methods to better protect it from heat and flying embers. This page excerpted from the Jefferson County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) 2024 Update demonstrates examples of the types of improvements that can be made to make homes and properties more resilient to wildfires. The specific requirements for structure hardening can be found in Chapter 4 of the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code.

Image of page 63 from Jefferson County Community Wildfire Protection Plan, showing a diagram of a house labeled with different letters corresponding to the following lists. Low-cost actions: B. Cover chimneys and stovepipe outlets with 3/8th to ½ inch corrosion-resistant metal mesh. C. Minimize debris accumulation under and next to solar panels. E. Cover vent openings with 1/16th to 1/8th inch corrosion-resistant metal mesh. Install dryer vents with metal flappers and keep closed unless in use. G. Clear debris from roof and gutters regularly. I. Install metal flashing around and under garage doors that goes up at least 6 inches inside and outside the door. J. Use noncombustible lattice, trellis, or other decorative features. K. Install weather stripping around and under doors. L. Remove combustible materials from underneath, on top of, or within 5 feet of deck. M. Use noncombustible patio furniture. N. Cover all eaves with screened vents. O. Establish and maintain a 5-foot noncombustible buffer around the home. Actions to plan and save for: A. Use noncombustible or ignition-resistant siding and trim (e.g., stucco, fiber cement, fire-retardant treated wood) at least 2 feet up around the base of your home. C. Use multipaned glass for skylights, not materials that can melt (e.g., plexiglass), and use metal flashing. D. Install a 6-inch vertical noncombustible surface on all gables above roofs. F. Install multi-pane windows with at least one tempered glass pane and metal mesh screens. Use noncombustible materials for window frames. G. Install noncombustible gutters, gutter covers, and downspouts. H. Install ignition-resistant or noncombustible roofs (composite, metal, or tile). I. Install 1-hour fire rated garage doors. K. Install 1-hour fire rated front and back doors. L. Use ignition-resistant or noncombustible decking. Enclose crawl spaces. N. Use noncombustible eaves and cover soffits. P. Replace wooden fences within 8 feet of the home with noncombustible materials (at least 20 feet away for double wide fences).

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