In the face of increasing wildfires in the U.S., and stricter insurance policies, homebuilders and homeowners are seeking fire-resistant construction methods. Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs), like the ones from Fox Blocks, have emerged as a leading solution because of their exceptional fire resistance and overall durability.

The Importance of ICF Fire Resistance

In 2017, there were 31,017 wildfires in the U.S., an 8 percent increase over 2016. Many scientists blame the rise in wildfires on climate change, which is causing an increase in global temperatures, drier forests, and earlier snow melts. According to Verisk’s 2017 Wildfire Risk Analysis, 4.5 million homes in the U.S. are at high or extreme danger of wildfire, which underscores the need for fire-resistant components in new homes.

Fortunately, ICFs are renowned for their superior fire resistance, which makes them a preferred choice for constructing resilient homes. Comprising a combination of reinforced concrete and fire-retardant foam, ICF walls can withstand extreme temperatures and provide a robust barrier against fire.

The construction method ultimately helps protect their homes, its valued contents, and family members from the increasing threat of wildfires.

Passive Fire Protection in Safe Home Design

An essential element of fire-resistant home construction is passive fire protection. Passive fire protection includes fire-resistant exterior walls, doors, windows, roofs, and vents. ICFs play a crucial role in passive fire protection by providing fire-resistant exterior walls that can endure fire exposure for extended periods. This not only helps in preventing the spread of fire but also ensures that the structural integrity of the building remains intact during a fire event.

Fox Block Wall Systems for a Fire-Resistant Home

Fox Blocks ICF wall systems are designed to provide exceptional fire resistance.

• These walls can withstand fire exposure for up to 4 hours, significantly longer than traditional wood-frame walls.

• The combination of reinforced concrete and fire-retardant foam creates a robust barrier that limits heat transfer and reduces the spread of fire.

• ICF walls produce less smoke and fewer toxic fumes, for the safety of occupants and first responders during a fire incident.

The Roof of a Fire-Resistant Home

The roof of a fire-resistant home must resist catching fire. Roofs are susceptible to fire from burning debris, fireworks, lightning, wildfires, chimney fires, and sparks. Constructing a roof with fire-resistant products is a home’s best defense against a roof fire.

Fire-testing exposure of roof assemblies is in accordance with ASTM E108 or UL 790. The treatment of fire-retardant-treated wood roof coverings should also be in accordance with ASTM D2898. The UL 790 has three classes of fire-resistant roofing. A best practice for constructing a fire-resistant home uses Class A roofing.

Fire-Resistant Roofing Classes

Class A Roof Coverings

• Protect against severe fire test exposures and will not slip from a position or produce flying brands

• Examples: Slate, asphalt glass, concrete tiles, clay tiles, and fiber composition shingles

Class B Roof Coverings

• Protect against moderate fire test exposures to the roof deck, will not slip from a position or produce flying brands

• Examples: Shingles and pressure-treated shakes

Class C Roof Coverings

• Protect against light fire test exposures and will not slip from a position or produce flying brands

• Examples: Particle board, plywood, and untreated wood shakes and shingles

Using Class A roofing materials, such as slate, concrete tiles, and fiber composition shingles, provides the highest level of protection and is recommended for constructing a fire-resistant home. These materials can significantly reduce the risk of roof fires and enhance the overall safety and resilience of the structure.

Windows and Doors for a Fire-Resistant Home

Windows and doors are potential weak points in an ICF fire-resistant home. To enhance fire resistance, homeowners should consider using tempered glass for windows and installing metal or solid-core wood doors. These materials are less likely to ignite and can provide additional protection against the spread of fire. Sealing gaps around windows and doors with fire-resistant caulking can also help prevent fire from entering the home.

Vents for a Fire-Resistant Home

Vents are necessary for proper ventilation but can be a vulnerability during a wildfire. To mitigate this risk, it is essential to use vents with metal mesh screens (1/8" to 1/4" openings) that can prevent embers from entering the home. Installing fire-resistant vents and ensuring that they are properly maintained can provide an additional layer of protection.

The Challenge of Obtaining Home Insurance After a Fire

In recent years, securing home insurance has become increasingly challenging, especially in areas prone to wildfires. Insurers are tightening their requirements, and premiums are rising.

This makes it a quality investment for homeowners to use ICF fire-resistant construction methods to meet insurance criteria and safeguard their investments. In fact, by using ICE, you may be able to recieve:

Insurance Premium Reductions

• Homes built with ICFs may qualify for lower insurance premiums due to their enhanced fire resistance.

• Some insurers offer discounts for homes constructed with materials proven to withstand fire, which makes ICFs a cost-effective choice in the long run.

Compliance with Building Codes

• Building codes in fire-prone areas are becoming stricter, and require more fire-resistant construction methods.

• ICFs not only meet but often exceed these stringent codes, to ensure compliance and reduce the risk of penalties or reconstruction costs.

Increased Property Values

• Fire-resistant homes are becoming more desirable in the real estate market.

• Properties constructed with ICFs can command higher prices, to provide a return on investment for homeowners who prioritize safety and durability.

Build a Fire-Resistant Future with Fox Blocks