Wildfires are a devastating reality, capable of destroying homes and displacing families in minutes. As architects, you have a responsibility to design structures that can withstand these catastrophic events. According to the National Interagency Fire Center, 2,454,480 acres have already burned this year alone. This alarming statistic highlights the importance of integrating fire-resistant vents into … Read more
Wildfires are a growing threat in the U.S., especially in Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) zones. Recent disasters, like the 2025 Southern California and Southeastern fires, prove the need for stronger WUI building codes. With over 46 million U.S. homes at risk, architects must prioritize wildfire-resistant construction. Building and fire codes do not provide the same level … Read more
Most people don’t think about vents until there’s a problem—but in wildfire-prone areas, that’s a mistake waiting to happen. Vents are essential for airflow, but if they aren’t built to resist embers and flames, they can turn into deadly entry points during a wildfire. That’s why compliance with standards like ASTM E2886 and California … Read more
Los Angeles County is in a state of crisis as multiple wildfires rage across the region. On Wednesday, these fires caused significant destruction, leading to the death of 5 individuals and the evacuation of about 100,000 residents. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed these figures, highlighting the seriousness of the situation. Among the … Read more
The balcony is essential to any residential complex, offering a private outdoor area where residents can relax and enjoy the view. However, ensuring these balconies’ structural strength and safety is crucial, which is where SB 326 balcony inspections come into play. This law was enacted in California on August 30, 2019, and requires thorough inspections … Read more
Enhancing your property with additional features can significantly increase its appeal and functionality. One popular addition that many homeowners consider is a balcony. Balconies not only increase a property’s aesthetic appeal but also extend living space and can potentially increase its market value. Significantly, in the Golden State, where the recent inclusion of balcony safety … Read more
California Senate Bill 326 (CA SB326) is essential for ensuring the safety and strength of residential buildings within homeowners’ association (HOA) communities. Enacted on January 1, 2020, this legislation specifically addresses the risks associated with exterior elevated elements (EEE), including balconies, decks, and walkways six feet above ground level and constructed from wood or wood-based … Read more
As a new homeowner in California, where wildfires pose a frequent threat, it’s essential to be proactive about fire safety. According to CAL FIRE, wildfires have already consumed 99,544 acres in 2024 alone, underscoring the importance of fire-resistant construction. One key element to consider is the proper installation of fire vents. These specialized vents are … Read more
Purchasing a home within a Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) presents unique challenges, especially in regions like California, where wildfires are a frequent concern. For those looking to buy homes in these areas, the role of a realtor becomes crucial. As of 2024, California has witnessed 2,325 wildfire incidents, highlighting the increased risks of acquiring property … Read more
In recent years, significant laws have been enacted to ensure the safety and integrity of balconies in residential buildings. Senate Bill 721, which took effect on January 1, 2019, initiated a series of strict standards for California balcony inspection across various residential buildings. Additionally, building on this foundation, Senate Bill 326, aimed explicitly at condominiums, … Read more
