We have talked about how the harsh weather in Australia can really affect your roof, intense weather systems can wreak havoc on any roof structure, not least of which is bushfires and as we approach bushfire season, it’s time to prepare your home.
We live in the most prone to bushfires country, bushfires can be devastating not just to the local wildlife but for homeowners as well. We have put together this checklist of sorts for protecting your home this summer bushfire season. We look at ways to help prepare your roof for the worst and provide some ways to help prevent fires from damaging your roof; which could lead to more extensive and expensive damage if left to mother nature.
Bushfires can start anywhere and can be caused by lightning or other environmental factors. Really all a fire needs to start is a spark, fuel and oxygen. When you combine our hot, dry summer temperatures with dry leaves, you have a recipe for bushfire havoc. Causing property damage, livestock and wildlife deaths and injuries and even human injuries or deaths, bushfires are not to be taken lightly, read on for some of our best tips to minimise the damage to your home and property this bushfire season.
Preparation
Flying embers are the main concern when it comes to any fire spreading, bushfires are no different and your roof is right in the firing line. So, preparing your home this summer is integral in trying to protect your home.
Debris in your gutters is the number one way embers can start a fire in your roof. We always recommend regular gutter cleans and inspections, and especially in bushfire season. Removing trees around the home is another way of reducing the debris likely to fall on your roof. Check with your local building codes for how far away vegetation needs to be from your home.
Roof tiles that are cracked or missing must be replaced immediately. These gaps can store debris or if embers are in just the right spot, allow the embers to reach your roof cavity.
You will often see in bushfire footage, home owners spraying their property with the hose, as an effective measure to try and prevent the embers from catching. Roof sprinklers are an easily installed and maintained system which could allow you to protect your home, even when you have evacuated. The same principle could work for the land surrounding your home and an underground sprinkler or irrigation system, you would just need to ensure hoses and pipe work are all fire resistant and you have enough water supply.
Prevention
Some of the trees in your yard, like eucalyptus or pine trees may be great for local fauna, however ignite easily due to their high oil content, its best to keep these trees further away from the home.
Even though summer is the worst in terms of heat, make sure your lawn is mowed and all dry leaves are raked up. The same applies for any dead or dying branches or shrubs. Anything that is dry makes for excellent kindling and will help the fire spread. Keep any clippings and dry grass at least 20-30 metres from your home and don’t stack firewood or keep any kind of fuel or flammable liquid in the home.
Always remember, homes and things can be replaced, your life cannot. So, if you are in a bushfire prone area and are ordered to leave, do so swiftly, it could save your life, and the lives of rescue workers who could be sent to rescue you and your family if you stay too long.
If your roof is damaged during a bushfire, or you are unsure of the maintenance needed, contact us today for a regular roof check-up. Avoid costly mistakes and discover how Horizonline Roofing can help you and your home by getting in touch today. Call to speak to one of our friendly team on (08) 8380 5796, or you can fill in our contact form and we will be in touch shortly.
