12 actions to protect your home
Why is it important to clean the roof and gutters to reduce fire risk?
If a home is located in or near a forest, debris such as leaves, branches, conifer needles, and other flammable materials can accumulate in the gutters and on the roof. These materials can easily ignite if embers or sparks from a wildfire are carried by the wind and land on the roof or in the gutters.
Additionally, the buildup of organic debris on the roof and in gutters can encourage the growth of moss, which can become highly flammable during dry periods. This increases the risk of the home catching fire if a wildfire approaches.
It is also important to ensure that roofing materials are fire-resistant. Asphalt shingles, ceramic tiles, and metal roofing help protect a home from wildfires by reducing the building’s flammability.