Design
Design for Fire Safety AS LOS ANGELES NEIGHBORHOODS BEGIN RECOVERY, REBUILDING EFFORTS OFFER AN OPPORTUNITY TO REIMAGINE SAFETY, STRUCTURE, AND SUSTAINABILITY.
TAYLOR MILLER
A s Los Angeles recovers from the devastation of recent wildfires, homeowners are grappling with rebuilding homes that can better withstand future disasters. Wildfires are an increasingly common threat in California, fueled by a combination of climate change, prolonged droughts, and urban expansion into wildfire-prone areas. Although recovery is often the immediate focus after disasters, there is a pressing need to look forward and adopt innovative building methods prioritizing fire resistance. Countries like Australia offer inspiration, having adopted fire-resistant design and construction techniques in response to similarly devastating wildfires. By tailoring solutions to the unique
challenges of Los Angeles, homeowners can rebuild stronger and safer homes that are more resilient to future fires. FIRE RESISTANT MATERIALS One obvious solution is to build with fire-resistant materials. Builders in Australia have adopted materials such as fiber cement, steel, and rammed earth in fire-prone regions because these materials can withstand intense heat and direct flame. Replacing traditional wood or vinyl lap siding with fiber cement or metal cladding can dramatically reduce a home’s vulnerability to fire. Roofing, often the first point of failure during a wildfire, can be upgraded to metal, clay tiles, or Class A-rated asphalt shingles, all of which offer
greater resistance to flying embers. Even windows, which can shatter from the intense heat of a fire, can be upgraded to double-glazed, tempered glass for improved durability. By carefully selecting materials designed to endure high temperatures and resist combustion, homeowners can make their homes significantly safer without sacrificing aesthetics or functionality. ARCHITECTURE Fire resistant materials are only one piece of the puzzle though. The design of a home plays a pivotal role in its ability to withstand wildfires. One of the most effective strategies is to simplify architectural features that can act as traps for embers. Eaves, overhangs,
38 | think realty magazine :: may - june 2025
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