20
Nov

Windows and doors have frames around them. These frames are a risk when it comes to wildfires, and when it comes to buying or building a home, you need to look at how to protect your home. This doesn’t mean you need to get rid of the frames.

It’s all about making the frames safer. When building, this is much easier. You’ll use the most up to date materials that are recommended for fire safety. When buying an existing home, you’ll need to make investments to make your home safer.

The Risk of Frames

The frame can quickly catch fire if you have the wrong materials. A lot of frames are made with some sort of wood or wood composite, and they may not have been treated well over the years. If you buy an existing home, it’s worth looking at the maintenance done on the window frames to make sure they look good and safe.

Vinyl frames are very common because they’re cheap. They’re actually the worst frames to have. They have a lower melting point, which means they’re going to let the heat into the home and cause more fire damage.

Invest in Steel Frames

If you have the budget available, use it wisely. Opt for steel frames for the windows and doors. This may initially look unsightly, but the material has a much higher melting point.

If you can’t afford steel, aluminum could help. This material does have a lower melting point than steel, but nothing as low as vinyl. It’s not treated with chemicals that are going to quickly go up in flames. Some wood can be an option, but make sure it has been treated with a fire-resistant coating.

Don’t Forget the Screens

Most homes will come with a screen across the outside of the window. This is used to prevent insects getting in the home when you have your windows open, but it is beneficial against fires, especially with the right material.

You’ll usually get a fiberglass screen, which is great for durability. It absorbs heat pretty well, so as not to melt when there is a fire. This helps to protect the home a little better against fires.

If you’re looking at metals, you’ll want to look at steel before aluminum. Just like the frames, steel isn’t going to melt as quickly as aluminum. However, fiberglass is a much better material.