Wildfires pose a significant risk to Oak Ridge Estates, where our natural beauty comes with increased fire danger. One of the most overlooked vulnerabilities in homes is vent openings, which can allow embers to enter and ignite materials inside.
Fire-Safe Venting Solutions
To reduce the risk of ember intrusion, Oak Ridge Estates homeowners should follow these recommendations:
Note: Homes built in Oak Ridge Estates before 2021 may have dormer roof vents that do not meet current ember-resistant standards. Homeowners are encouraged to inspect these vents and consider upgrading them to comply with today’s fire safety regulations. Since the original dormer roof vents were custom-made by Castlerock Development, suitable replacement products may not be readily available, and custom fabrication may be necessary.
✅ Install California-approved ember-resistant vents
- These vents comply with Chapter 7A of the California Building Code and must meet the following requirements:
- No flaming ignition of cotton material during the Ember Intrusion Test.
- No flaming ignition during the Integrity Test portion of the Flame Intrusion Test.
- Maximum temperature of the unexposed side of the vent shall not exceed 662°F (350°C).
✅ Retrofit existing vents
- Cover attic, soffit, basement, foundation, and gable vents with 1/8-inch or 1/16-inch metal mesh.
- Avoid common 1/4-inch screens, which are ineffective.
✅ Avoid combustible materials
- Do not use fiberglass or plastic mesh, as they can melt and burn.
✅ Protect eave and cornice vents
- Install ember-blocking baffles with a 1/16-inch wire mesh backing, as mesh alone is not enough to prevent ember intrusion.
✅ Off-ridge and ridge vents
For vents installed on sloped roofs, such as dormer vents, they must comply with these additional requirements:
- Vents must be covered with a mesh with openings between 1/16-inch (1.6 mm) and 1/8-inch (3.2 mm) in diameter.
- The mesh material must be noncombustible and corrosion resistant.
Why This Matters
Wind-driven embers are a leading cause of home ignition during wildfires. By upgrading your vents and implementing these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of fire spreading within your home.