Outside strict WUI zones, which Chapter 7A practices deliver the biggest benefit per dollar (gutter guards, siding swaps)?
Okay, so outside those really strict wildfire areas, here’s how to cut down on ember dangers without a total home makeover:
- Gutter guards: Keep leaves out with covers. It’s cheap and it works.
- Better vents: Use ember-blocking vent covers for attics and eaves.
- Siding switch: Swap out the bottom part of your siding for fiber-cement or stucco, especially near decks. Doing the whole house is pricey, so just hit the spots where embers are most likely to land.
- Deck updates: Box in the underside of decks or use fire-proof stuff where embers could pile up.
Basically, start with the easy stuff like gutters and vents. Then, if needed, do the siding or deck work where it matters most. Going all-out like you would in a really high-risk zone usually isn’t worth it otherwise.
Best-value 7A upgrades outside strict WUI: non-combustible siding, metal/Class-A roof, gutter guards, and treated or non-combustible decks/trim.
Outside strict WUI zones the highest bang for the buck under Chapter 7A comes from:
Gutter guards and spark arrestors : prevent embers and reduce roof fires cheaply
Non combustible or treated siding : fiber cement or stucco replacements where cladding is due for refresh
Vented but screened eaves and soffits : low cost, high ember protection
Roofing upgrades : class A shingles or metal if reroofing anyway
Minor trim swaps and landscaping defensible space usually cost little but can further reduce risk.
Metal gutter covers and ember-resistant vents give the most protection for the least cost outside strict WUI zones.
Outside strict WUI zones, ember-resistant gutter guards and fine-mesh vent covers usually give the most benefit per dollar, with spot upgrades to vulnerable siding or decks in high-exposure areas.