Finishing Touch Exteriors

Fire-Resistant Exterior Materials for Wildfire-Prone Areas

Fire-Resistant Exterior Materials for Wildfire-Prone Areas

As wildfire seasons grow longer and more intense across the West, homeowners in Montana—especially in the Billings and surrounding areas—are looking for smarter ways to protect their homes. One of the most effective defenses starts on the outside: choosing fire-resistant exterior materials.

At Finishing Touch Contracting, we’re committed to helping Montana homeowners make informed, resilient choices. If you’re thinking about a remodel, new build, or siding replacement, here’s what to know about the materials that can help shield your home from wildfire risk.

Why Fire-Resistant Materials Matter
Wildfires don’t just ignite trees and dry brush—they also send embers flying for miles. In fact, embers are the #1 cause of home ignition during wildfires (Cal Fire). That means materials on your roof, siding, soffits, fascia, and decks need to be able to resist catching fire when exposed to heat or flying debris.

Homes with non-combustible or ignition-resistant materials have a much better chance of surviving a wildfire, especially when combined with proper defensible space and roof maintenance.

Top Fire-Resistant Exterior Materials
Fiber Cement Siding
A top choice for durability and fire safety, fiber cement siding (like James Hardie® products) offers a Class A fire rating. It mimics the look of wood or shingles but doesn’t ignite or melt in high heat.

Stucco
Traditional stucco is non-combustible and performs well in wildfire-prone areas. When installed correctly over a solid base, it creates a tough fire-resistant barrier that can help block embers and flames.

Metal Roofing and Siding
Steel and aluminum panels offer some of the best protection from fire. Not only do they resist ignition, but they also withstand Montana’s snow and hail seasons, making them a long-lasting investment.

Fire-Treated Wood
While not completely fireproof, fire-retardant-treated wood (FRTW) is chemically treated to slow ignition and flame spread. It’s sometimes used for soffits, fascia, or trim where aesthetics are important, but should be paired with other non-combustible materials.

Composite Decking (Class A Rated)
Composite materials like TimberTech® or Trex® Transcend have higher fire resistance than untreated wood. Look for Class A-rated products when building or replacing decks near vegetation.

Other Exterior Elements to Consider
Gutters: Install metal gutters with leaf guards to prevent dry debris buildup, which can ignite from falling embers.

Vents: Use ember-resistant vent screens (1/8-inch mesh) on soffits and crawl spaces.

Fascia and Soffit: Opt for fiber cement or metal over traditional wood for these vulnerable roof-edge areas.

Local Conditions: Montana’s Wildfire Risk
Montana’s dry summers, high winds, and forested terrain put many properties at moderate to high wildfire risk—even near urban areas like Billings and Laurel. Recent fire seasons have shown that it’s not just rural cabins that need fire-hardening strategies.

By investing in fire-resistant upgrades now, homeowners can reduce future insurance costs and help protect not just their homes, but also their neighborhoods.

What We Recommend at Finishing Touch
We always start with a site assessment. Then we guide you through material choices that fit your budget, aesthetic, and risk level. Whether you’re planning a full exterior remodel or simply updating your siding, we’ll make sure fire safety is part of the plan.

We also coordinate with roofing professionals and gutter installers to ensure you get a comprehensive fire-resistant exterior—not just a patchwork of upgrades.

Ready to Upgrade with Resilience?
Your home deserves more than good looks—it deserves protection that lasts. If you’re ready to explore fire-resistant siding, fascia, or other exterior upgrades, Finishing Touch Contracting is here to help. Reach out today and let’s build something safer, together.

Read Next: When Is It Time to Replace Your Soffit or Fascia?

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top