Decks include all types of horizontal walkways, including lands and porches directly connected to or very close to a house or building.
Most decks are highly combustible. Their shape traps hot gasses underneath, and they collect embers on top. A deck often ignites before fire reaches the house. The areas beneath decks can be vulnerable to fire from storing combustible materials, debris, or vegetation. These areas should be kept completely clear of anything combustible.
Fences that attach to decks and porches can also spread fire to a house. Replacing wooden fencing with metal will reduce that risk.
The photo gallery below shows examples of retrofits you can make to decks and porches to lessen your home’s vulnerability.
