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With the increasing threat of wildfires in many regions, protecting your home and property becomes paramount. One effective measure is installing Wildfire Defense Mesh on vulnerable areas such as decks. This mesh acts as a barrier against dangerous flying embers, which are a primary cause of deck ignitions during wildfires. Here's how you can install Wildfire Defense Mesh on your deck:
Before you begin this project, it is critical to completely clean out underneath your deck so it’s free and clear of debris!
This video below will guide you through the key steps, and you'll find more handy videos on how to measure, cut and prepare mesh on our YouTube Channel, Wildfire Defense TV.
Step 1: Gather Materials and Tools
Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials and tools. We recommend the 24”, 36”, 49”, and 60” width rolls of Wildfire Defense Mesh 98 depending on the height and width of your deck. The tools you will need typically include, a nail gun or hammer with the appropriate fixings for your deck material, tin snips, measuring tape, and safety gear such as gloves and goggles.
Step 2: Measure and Cut the Mesh
Measure the dimensions of your deck surface where you intend to install the mesh. Ensure you have enough mesh to cover the entire area. Using tin snips, cut the mesh to the required size cutting along the line of the mesh, leaving a small overlap around the edges for secure attachment to the deck and deck posts, and be sure to leave approximately 4” that can be buried into the ground.
Step 3: Prepare the Deck Surface
Before laying down the mesh, ensure that the deck surface is clean and free from any debris or obstructions. Sweep away leaves, dirt, and other materials that could interfere with the installation process.
Step 4: Dig a 4” trench
Dig a narrow trench in the ground approximately 4” deep. This will enable you to bury the mesh in the ground ensuring it is anchored and that no embers can penetrate underneath the mesh. As a secondary benefit, going 4” into the ground will also prevent rodents from crawling under your deck.
Step 5: Position the Mesh
Position the cut mesh over the deck surface, Wildfire Defense Mesh bends easily to ensure a secure fixing. It’s important to ensure that there are no gaps that embers could penetrate. It’s likely you’ll need to have someone assist you in holding the mesh in place to prevent it from shifting during installation.
Step 6: Secure the Mesh
Use a nail gun or hammer with the appropriate fixing for your deck material. It is best to ask your local hardware store for guidance on fixing based on the material your deck is made out of. Start at one corner and work your way across, ensuring the mesh is taut and securely attached with no gaps. Space the staples or fixings approximately 6 to 8 inches apart along the edges and at regular intervals across the mesh, this ensures a tight connection.
Our deck installation video below explains how to attach mesh including creating an access point under the deck. If you need an access point to under your deck, be sure to watch our video to see how best to do this and ensure a tight, ember-proof, connection.
Step 7: Inspect and Maintain
After installation, inspect the mesh periodically to ensure it remains securely attached and in good condition. Replace any damaged or loose sections promptly to maintain its effectiveness in protecting against wildfires.
Step 8: Consider Professional Installation
If you're unsure about installing Wildfire Defense Mesh yourself or if you have a large deck area, consider hiring professionals who specialize in wildfire mitigation measures. They can ensure proper installation and provide additional advice on protecting your property from wildfires. Feel free to contact us to be connected with one of our recommended professional installers.
By following these steps, you can effectively install Wildfire Defense Mesh on your deck, providing an added layer of protection against the threat of wildfires.
