According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), 4.8 million U.S. homes have been identified as being at high or extreme risk of wildfire. More than 2 million of those homes are in California alone. Losses from wildfires have added up to $5.1 billion over the past 10 years. IBHS believes that improving building codes and installation practices will result in reduced losses. At Fortress Building Products, we stand behind that forward-thinking mindset and believe that adopting fire-smart building materials and methods is key to a safer future.

For contractors, the threat that wildfires pose to homeowners across the U.S. is a clear call to action. Now is the time to leverage noncombustible materials like steel to build decks and outdoor living spaces, which have undoubtedly become direct extensions of our homes over the last several years. We're talking about extending fire preparedness to the complete backyard package: from the deck substructure to the perimeter solution at the edge of a property line. In turn, contractors can turn this natural threat into an opportunity to obtain insurance coverage and build a safer, longer-lasting outdoor space that exceeds their clients' expectations.

Here are a few noncombustible outdoor building products to put to the test on your next fire-safe backyard build:

• Steel deck framing. First, let’s talk about deck construction. Traditional deck framing materials like lumber hold a huge combustion risk. Instead, prioritize safety with a noncombustible steel deck framing This fire-smart solution leverages the proven performance of steel to meet the demands of today’s bigger and better decks in wildfire-prone regions. Engineered steel beams are strong enough to support today’s most sought-after on-deck amenities and will not rot, warp or split after long-term exposure to the elements. Underscoring its safety factor, Evolution steel deck framingfrom Fortress Building Products received a Class A rating after completing the ASTM E84-21a, Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials, making it approved for deck construction in WUI areas.

• Steel railing. The noncombustible nature of steel can also be extended to the deck, patio or balcony railing. What’s more, with today’s modern steel railing systems, there’s no reason to compromise on aesthetics for safety and performance. For example, our Fe²⁶ steel railing is compatible with lots of different infill options, so it’s never been easier to meet a clients’ design vision while prioritizing wildfire preparedness.

• Steel fencing. Establish a strong first line of defense against wildfires with a steel fence. Having a smart perimeter solution in place that is unlikely to contribute fuel to a fire can help prevent fire from spreading quickly, reducing the vulnerability of a home and surrounding neighbors. And if the backyard is sloped or features uneven terrain, consider a rackable steel fence. Unlike a step design, a rackable design allows the steel fence to accommodate a property’s grade changes while maintaining an even bottom and top rail. Going this route also reduces the amount of planning and labor typically involved in installations on sloping or uneven terrain.

• Steel pergolas. Pergolas made from steel are another fire-smart backyard option. Stray sparks from the Solo Stove or hot coals from the grill won’t pose an ignition risk. What’s more, Fortress® pergolasare designed with sleek structural steel components that sidestep any issues associated with moisture absorption, one of the most common reasons a traditional wood pergola will deteriorate over time. Further preserving the structural integrity of the assembly and its beautiful appearance, a powder coated finish provides enhanced corrosion resistance and UV protection.

No matter what part of the country your next project is located in—you can count on Fortress Building Products to help you step up to the challenge and deliver a fire-safe backyard.