Homeowners Combat Wildfire Risks with New Mitigation Strategies

Jake Arnold, a lifelong Colorado resident, recently moved to the Ken Caryl foothills, an area close to wildfire zones. To address fire risks, Arnold contacted Road Home Exteriors, a roofing and siding company that has launched the Harden Your Home Program. This initiative provides a complimentary 28-point assessment to guide homeowners on improving fire resistance by evaluating elements like siding, vents, and surrounding vegetation.

Leo Dunn, co-founder of Road Home Exteriors, highlighted the importance of identifying vulnerabilities in a home's structure that could allow ember penetration during wildfires. Dunn reported an increase in fire mitigation efforts across Colorado, supported by the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code and House Bill 1182, which emphasize fire preparedness for homeowners. These regulatory compliance requirements have led to numerous inquiries from homeowners wanting to safeguard their properties against wildfires.

The Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code sets standards for fire-resistant building materials and landscaping in Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) areas, where development is near wildfire-prone regions. In compliance with state regulations, various Colorado counties, including Jefferson County, are revising local wildfire codes. There is consideration of expanding WUI boundaries to include areas like Ken Caryl, previously not marked as a fire zone. Road Home Exteriors provides customized assessments that factor in a homeowner's proximity to the WUI and relevant fire-protection regulations.

House Bill 1182, effective in July, mandates insurers to consider homeowners' mitigation actions when determining insurance rates. Dunn noted that program participants receive documentation to present to insurers, although securing lower premiums is not guaranteed. "We hope these efforts will encourage some kind of insurance discount," Dunn stated, recognizing the challenges of ensuring consistent rate reductions through their program.

During an assessment at Arnold's home, it was found that while his roofing and deck materials have Class A fire ratings, the wood composite siding remains a fire risk. This evaluation has led Arnold to consider replacing the siding and reviewing the condition of his gutters. He acknowledges the potential community-wide impact of individual fire mitigation efforts, noting the mutual benefits when neighbors enhance the fire safety of their homes.