Image Credit: Picture courtesy of Wildfire Prepared and KB Home
In response to California’s increasing wildfire threat, KB Home has introduced the state’s first “wildfire-resilient” housing development in Escondido, near San Diego. This innovative community consists of 64 homes designed to meet strict wildfire resilience standards established by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), an organization supported by property insurers.
The development aims to address the primary ignition threats posed by wildfires: flying embers, radiant heat, and direct flame contact. Homes in the community are built using advanced fire-resistant construction techniques, including covered gutters, enclosed eaves, and non-combustible materials such as stucco and fiber cement. Additionally, features like tempered-glass windows, non-combustible roofing, and fire-resistant doors enhance the overall safety of the homes.
To further bolster fire resistance, the community includes six-inch vertical clearances achieved through the use of concrete foundations, stucco, and stone, which help prevent flames from reaching combustible elements of the houses. The landscaping is intentionally designed with low-combustible plants positioned at least five feet from the homes, while metal fencing is utilized to reduce potential fuel sources. Each unit is spaced at least ten feet apart to minimize the risk of flames spreading between structures.
The inspiration for this community arose from a demonstration of fire-resistant homes at the Pacific Coast Builders Conference. In response to the urgency of wildfire resilience, KB Home adapted its original architectural plans to incorporate fire-resistant features in a timely manner, reflecting the company’s commitment to safety and community needs.
Approximately 20 of the homes have already been sold, with three families having moved in. Prices for these properties range from one million dollars to the low millions, aligning with the market for move-up buyers in the area.
As climate change continues to exacerbate drought and wildfire conditions in the American West, the implementation of fire-resilient construction is increasingly important. The Escondido development stands out as a significant step, being the first large-scale production project in the country to fully adopt these wildfire-resilient standards across an entire subdivision.
The success of this project could encourage other builders to adopt similar practices, potentially transforming the approach to home construction in fire-prone regions. With additional projects already planned, KB Home’s efforts may pave the way for a new standard in wildfire resilience, ultimately benefiting homeowners and communities alike.
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