Metal Siding & Wildfire Season: What Colorado Homeowners Should Know
Fire danger isn’t a hypothetical topic in Teller County this year. Red Flag Warnings have been issued repeatedly across the region in recent weeks, and Teller County has an active Stage 2 Fire Ban in place. For homeowners in Woodland Park, Divide, Cripple Creek, and the surrounding mountain communities, wildfire risk is a real, ongoing consideration not just a once-a-decade concern.
One of the most overlooked ways to harden a home against that risk is the exterior siding. Here’s what to know about how metal siding fits into wildfire preparedness, and where it fits alongside other steps.
Why Siding Material Matters in a Wildfire
Wildfires don’t just threaten homes through direct flame contact. Wind-driven embers sometimes traveling well ahead of the main fire front can land against a home’s exterior and ignite anything combustible. Wood siding, vinyl siding, and other flammable materials give those embers something to catch on.
Metal siding is non-combustible. It won’t ignite from ember contact the way wood or vinyl can, which makes it one of the more effective materials for reducing a structure’s vulnerability during a wildfire event.
Metal Siding vs. Wood and Vinyl in Fire-Prone Areas
- Wood siding is combustible by nature and requires ongoing treatment or maintenance to reduce (not eliminate) fire risk.
- Vinyl siding can melt and warp under high heat, and in some cases contribute to fire spread.
- Metal siding doesn’t ignite and holds up structurally under heat exposure far better than either alternative.
It’s Part of a Bigger Picture
Metal siding is one piece of a home hardening strategy, not a complete solution on its own. Other factors that matter just as much include:
- Defensible space clearing vegetation and combustible material within the recommended distance of the home
- Roofing material Class A fire-rated roofing significantly reduces ember ignition risk
- Vents and eaves ember-resistant vents keep embers from entering the attic or crawlspace
- Gutters keeping them clear of dry leaves and debris removes an easy ignition point
We can’t speak to every element of wildfire mitigation, but on the roofing and siding side, we can walk you through your options.
Additional Benefits of Metal Siding at Elevation
Beyond fire resistance, metal siding holds up well against the freeze-thaw cycles, heavy snow loads, and intense UV exposure that come with Colorado’s mountain climate. It’s also low-maintenance compared to wood, and depending on the product, can often be installed over existing siding without a full tear-off which can make it a more practical upgrade than homeowners expect.
Checking Current Conditions
Fire danger levels and burn restrictions change quickly in Teller County and can vary by jurisdiction. If you’re planning any outdoor work or want to understand current restrictions in your area, Teller County’s Office of Emergency Management posts updates directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is metal siding really fireproof?
Metal siding is non-combustible, meaning it won’t ignite on its own. No exterior material makes a home entirely immune to wildfire damage, but metal siding removes one of the more common ignition points.
Can metal siding be installed over my existing siding?
In many cases, yes. Depending on the condition of your current siding and the product chosen, metal siding can often go over existing material without a full tear-off, which can reduce project cost and time.
Does metal siding help with homeowner’s insurance in fire-prone areas?
Some insurers offer discounts for fire-resistant building materials, though this varies by carrier and policy. We’d recommend checking directly with your insurance company about any applicable savings.
What other home hardening steps should I consider alongside metal siding?
Defensible space around the home, Class A fire-rated roofing, ember-resistant vents, and clear gutters all play a role. Metal siding addresses one part of the picture.
Talk to Us About Metal Siding
If you’re weighing your options for fire-resistant siding on a Teller County or El Paso County property, give us a call. We’ll walk you through what’s involved and give you a straight answer on whether it’s the right fit for your home.
Call 719-210-9235 or request a free estimate online. Cory & the Rawson Roofing Team
