Your Guide to Fire-Resistant Decking
Understanding WUI compliance and the various product options for building a fire-resistant deck can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our experts at Wayside Lumber are here to answer your questions and guide you through the process. We carry a large selection of fire-rated, WUI-compliant composite and PVC decking options that offer enhanced safety without sacrificing durability or style.
Understanding the Need for Fire-Resistant Composite Decking Starts with WUI
To understand why fire-resistant composite decking is so important, it’s essential to first understand the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI). The Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) refers to areas where homes and buildings are located near—or surrounded by—natural, undeveloped land such as forests, grasslands, or brush. These regions face a heightened risk of wildfires due to their proximity to flammable vegetation. To help reduce wildfire threats and improve safety, building codes in WUI zones require the use of fire-resistant materials, including WUI-compliant composite decking. These materials are rigorously tested to resist flame spread and ignition from wind-blown embers, providing critical protection in fire-prone areas.
Pro Tip: WUI compliance requirements and state regulations can vary based on your location and the wildfire risk in your area. It’s important to check with your local building authority and work closely with your lumber supplier and contractor to ensure your structure meets all applicable codes and fire safety standards.
Fire Resistance Ratings for Decking
Fire-rated decking is classified based on how well it resists flames and heat. These ratings—Class A, B, or C—are part of standardized fire tests that measure how quickly fire spreads across the surface of the material.
- Class A – Highest level of fire resistance. Very slow flame spread and minimal smoke production. Ideal for high-risk wildfire zones or areas with strict building codes.
- Class B – Moderate fire resistance. Slower flame spread than Class C, offering a good balance of protection and performance.
- Class C – Basic fire resistance. Slower to ignite than untreated wood but offers the least protection of the three classes. May not meet WUI or local fire safety codes in high-risk areas.
What Makes a Deck WUI-Compliant in California?
To meet WUI (Wildland Urban Interface) standards in California and other wildfire-prone areas, decking materials must be designed and tested for fire resistance. Here are two key performance requirements:
- Flame Spread Resistance
WUI-compliant decking must have a flame spread rating of Class A, B, or C, with Class A offering the highest level of fire resistance. A lower flame spread rating means the material burns more slowly, helping to reduce the speed at which fire can move across a surface. - Ember Resistance
Wildfires often produce wind-driven embers that can ignite decks and nearby structures. WUI-approved decking is tested to resist ignition from embers, making it less likely to catch fire during a wildfire event.
To learn more about WUI, visit the California Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) website at
https://osfm.fire.ca.gov
Why Choose Fire-Rated Composite Decking?
Fire-rated composite decking offers more than just a durable, low-maintenance surface—it adds a critical layer of protection for your home. In wildfire-prone areas, choosing decking designed to resist ignition and flame spread is an important part of building safer outdoor spaces.
- Enhanced Safety
Fire-rated decking is engineered to withstand high temperatures and resist ignition, helping slow the spread of flames. This added protection can buy valuable time for evacuation and emergency response—potentially reducing damage to your home. - Peace of Mind
Knowing your deck meets WUI and local fire code requirements gives you greater confidence in the safety of your structure—especially during fire season. - Increased Property Value
Fire-resistant materials are increasingly sought after by homebuyers in high-risk areas, potentially boosting your home’s appeal and resale value. - Insurance Advantages
In some regions, using WUI-compliant, fire-rated materials may help with insurance eligibility or lower your premiums.
We proudly carry WUI-compliant decking from trusted brands like Trex, TimberTech, and Fiberon—offering enhanced fire resistance without sacrificing durability or style. These collections have been tested and approved to meet California’s Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) standards, making them ideal for building in wildfire-prone areas.
WUI-Compliant Decking Collections
Trex (Composite)
- Transcend® Lineage
- Transcend®
- Select®
TimberTech
Composite:
- Reserve Collection™
- Premier Collection™
PVC:
- Vintage Collection®
- Landmark Collection™
- Harvest Collection™
- Harvest Collection+™
- Porch Collection™
Fiberon
Composite:
- Sanctuary®
- Good Life®
PVC:
- Paramount®
- Promenade™
