Wildfire Home Hardening in Los Angeles County, CA

Local wildfire exposure

Santa Ana winds moving through canyons and passes are the dominant driver. Long-distance ember transport is a defining characteristic of the county's fire history, which is why exterior detail work matters even for homes set back from the wildland edge.

Typical construction in the area

The mix ranges from mid-century canyon homes with wood siding and post-and-beam decks, to hillside contemporaries with large glazing areas, to newer foothill subdivisions built to more current standards.

Vegetation and fuels

Coastal sage scrub, chaparral, eucalyptus, palms, pines and dense ornamental landscaping. Steep, narrow canyon lots frequently leave little room between vegetation and structure.

Common vulnerabilities we see

• Large single-pane glazing exposed to slope
• Wood decks and stairs on steep hillside lots
• Under-deck storage and enclosed combustible areas
• Palm and eucalyptus litter on roofs and in gutters
• Long, narrow access roads limiting on-site work windows