Attic Vent Fire Protection

Gable vents provide needed exhaust for hot air from attic space for many configurations.

Attic vent fire protection.

Evidence from recent wildfires in the west has shown that vents are an entry point for embers and flames. Installation is a snap. Retro fit kits upgrade existing vents to be fire and ember safe. Alternatively cover all existing vent openings with 1 8 inch or 1 16 inch wire mesh.

Quick reference as well as more pics and info for gable vents. Baffles along the front edges of the vent keep rain from entering and provide for a negative pressure region that helps pull air out of the attic. Common 1 4 screens are ineffective and should be replaced or retrofitted. Some fire safety experts believe the installation of a whole house fan or attic fan may pose an increased risk for attic fires.

That said you may want to weigh the pros and cons of attic. When used in conjunction with lower soffit or eave vents rapid cooling and venting of the attic can take place. Ensuring proper ventilation for your attic is also essential. Install embers out elite vents embers out elite vents filter and stop wildfire embers wind driven rain dust debris insects and rodents from entering your home through the attic vent.

Use manufacured and ca approved vents see below to retrofit existing attic soffit basement foundation and gable vents where possible. Vents in attics and crawl spaces attic and crawl space vents and other openings on the vertical wall of a home serve. Soffit vents are available for stucco wood construction foam stucco or retro fit applications. Installing the recommended mesh screening and eliminating storage is critical to reducing building ignitions during a wildfire.

Having a fire extinguisher in the attic can help prevent a significant fire from erupting in it.