Eaves are located at the down-slope edge of a sloped roof and serve as the transition between the roof and fascia/wall.  The soffit is the material beneath the eaves that connects the far edge of your roof to the exterior wall of your house.  Eaves and Soffits are vulnerable to damage from wildfires due to accumulation of hot gasses. Enclosed soffits can protect eaves and should be constructed with non combustible materials for protection from heat and flame.

The vulnerability of decks to wildfire will depend on the decking board material, any combustible materials stored under the deck or kept on the deck, and the topography and amount and condition of vegetation leading to the deck. Properly constructed and maintained decks can resist embers. Regardless of what type of deck board is used, ignition can occur from an accumulation of combustible material under the deck. Enclosing the underside of the deck is one method to reduce the risk of ignition.

The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) recommends non-combustible fencing products when placed within five feet of a building.  Using non-combustible fencing where it attaches to the building reduces the opportunity of a burning fence igniting the exterior of the structure.   Combustible gates, often attached to homes,  can also ignite the structure and should be replaced with non combustible materials.

An untreated wood shake or shingle roof covering is the greatest threat to a home. All roofs should have Class A rated materials for ember resistance. Wind-blown debris will accumulate on roofs and in gutters. Dry debris can be ignited by wind-blown embers. Regularly remove vegetative debris from your roof and gutters. Chimneys require a spark arrestor screen with openings no smaller than 3/8 – inch and no larger than 1/2.

Siding is an important component in terms of providing protection for the building from the weather, and also in terms of the aesthetics of the building. In most cases it is less important from a wildfire exposure perspective compared with other components and assemblies.  With proper selection and maintenance of near-home vegetation, most siding products will be able to resist typical wildfire exposures.  If you replace your siding, there are many attractive non combustible options available.