Wildfire embers can slip through unprotected eave vents, igniting homes from the inside in just 60 seconds. This guide reveals exactly how ember resistant under eave screens can reduce this fire risk, featuring step-by-step DIY instructions on installing your own ember screens.
Why Embers Threaten Homes
Research shows that most wildfire-related home ignitions started because of tiny, wind-blown embers.
These embers can travel several miles ahead of the main fire, landing on roofs, in gutters, or getting sucked inside a home through under-eave vents.
Homeowners who want to reduce their ember-related fire damages should consider installing ember resistant under eave screens.
• Learn more:
– How Far Can Fire Embers Travel?
– Wildfire Info – A Century of U.S. Data
Under-Eave Vents: A Home's Hidden Weakness
Under-eave vents are crucial for circulating air through the attic & preventing moisture damage.
Your home's under-eave vents may appear to have existing mesh, but this is likely 1/4" mesh that is designed only to prevent rodents from entering the vents.
Note: the 1/4" mesh installed on most eave vents is NOT an ember-resistant mesh screen, and it is NOT sufficient protection against wildfire embers.
In short, If your home predates 2008, then it likely has under-eave vents, and that means an ember resistant under eave screen is a crucial upgrade.
• Learn more:
– California Building Code Chapter 7A – Explained
What Is an Ember Resistant Under Eave Screen?
An ember resistant under eave screen is a specialized mesh covering that attaches securely over existing vent openings.
Ember-resistant screens mesh should have openings between 1/16" and 1/8", which is small enough to block most embers, but still allows necessary airflow into attic space.
Many of these screens are made from fire-rated materials such as stainless steel with a black powder coat finish, such as the brand 'Wildfire Defense Mesh".
Ember Screen Benefits:
- Blocks Embers: Reduces dangerous embers from entering your attic.
- Maintains Airflow: Allows ventilation so your home ventilation remains unchanged..
- Code Compliance: Helps you meet or exceed the standards set forth in California Building Code Chapter 7A.
- Simple Installation: Typically stapled or screwed into the wooden eave, requiring minimal home modification.
Complete DIY Installation Guide in 7 Steps
Below is a detailed, step-by-step approach for homeowners who prefer a do-it-yourself project.
These instructions are based on real-world installation of ember screens using a consumer-product called "Wildfire Defense Mesh", which is fire-code approved and can be purchased by home owners, either in a roll, or as pre-cut strips for their vents.
What You'll Need:
• Strips of ember-resistant mesh for Eaves (20-inch x 3.25-inch, for example)
• Staple gun (electric or manual)
• 4mm (5/32") staples
• Sturdy step-ladder
• Black permanent marker
• Work gloves for hand protection
Step 1: Place Ember Screen
Place your ladder on flat, stable ground directly beneath the eave vents.
Take your pre-cut ember screen and hold it against the wooden header, to make sure it fits properly for your vent size.
Step 2: Staple Ember Screen
Begin securing the mesh using your staple gun.
Hold the staple gun flat against the wall and press the trigger, to get a flush staple.
Staple all the top row staples, and move down and then staple a second row underneath.
Step 3: Finish Stapling Screen
Add some staples toward the bottom of each vent hole.
The finished appearance will be a U-shaped pattern around each vent hole.
For a three-vent section, expect that you'll use at least 18 to 20 staples, per ember screen.
Step 4: Use Marker on Staples
Use a black permanent marker to color the silver staples.
This aesthetic step is important because the silver staples definitely stand out.
Take your time with this detail, and fill-in each staple thoroughly.
Step 5: Move To The Next Vent
After completing one under eave vent, now you can carefully relocate your ladder to the next vent.
Remember to take your time and go slow when you work with ladders & tools.
Repeat your installation process until every under-eave vent on your home has been covered.
Check Your Work
Complete a thorough check of all installed screens.
Walk around your home's perimeter to ensure all vents are covered with no gaps or loose edges.
Verify that staples are secure and the mesh lies flat against the surface.
Do Older Homes Really Need This?
Homes built before 2008 do not generally have ember-resistant ventilation built-in.
If you're unsure when your residence was constructed, here's a tool for checking out when your home was built.
Older vents are typically the first place embers infiltrate, especially in windy conditions when the eaves collect heat.
Upgrading to an ember resistant under eave screen is often cited as one of the most cost-effective strategies to reduce wildfire risk.
Backed by Fire Experts
Multiple studies—such as those from IBHS (Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety)—show that ember-driven ignitions account for the majority of destroyed homes during wildfires.
Recent findings suggest that a significant portion of wildfire damage could have been prevented if homeowners simply upgraded vents and cleared vegetation around their property.
- Check out the statistics: How Many Homes Burn Down From Embers
Partner with Total Screen for Installation
Not everyone feels comfortable on a ladder or has time to detail every staple. That's where Total Screen comes in.
Our professional team will:
- Evaluate your existing vent designs
- Recommend the best ember resistant under eave screen options
- Provide fast, professional installation
We're dedicated to helping homeowners protect their families and belongings from wildfire threats.
If you're located in San Diego County, reach out to us for a free estimate.
If you're outside of San Diego, then we can send you ember-screens customized to your home's measurements, ready for you to install.
Act Now to Reduce Your Risk
Embers may be tiny, but their potential for destruction is tremendous—particularly if they enter through under-eave vents.
By installing an ember resistant under eave screen, you close off this critical vulnerability without sacrificing ventilation.
To learn more about upgrading your home's fire protection measures, explore these resources:
- California Building Code Chapter 7A – Explained
- Wildfire Info – A Century of U.S. Data
- How Far Can Fire Embers Travel?
- Fire Protection for Home Vents
Take advantage of these proven methods to safeguard your home.
If you need personalized advice or professional installation, contact Total Screen at (619) 871-7610.
An ember resistant under eave screen could be the difference between losing your home to wildfire and saving it.