On January 1, 2008, California implemented requirements for building materials used in the exterior design and construction of buildings within Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) fire areas under Chapter 7A of the California Building Code. Under these requirements, lumber products used as siding, decking or soffits in exteriors must pass state-mandated fire tests. The full standard, which was initiated by the California State Fire Marshal's Office, can be viewed online at: www.fire.ca.gov/fire_prevention/fire_prevention_wildland.php .
WWPA and other wood products organizations have worked with state officials in reviewing available fire test data to meet the new regulations and defining preliminary product acceptance. A number of wood product fire tests have been successfully completed by companies producing products for the California market. The State Fire Marshal has also granted approval for many wood products and species, which is shown in the Wildland-Urban Interface Products Handbook published by the California Office of the State Fire Marshal. Further testing is planned to expand on this acceptance.
WWPA has prepared a new Tech Note to assist those making and selling lumber products in California that may be used in exterior applications such as siding, decking and soffits. Tech Note 2008-01lists the products that have successfully passed fire tests or are covered by the generic approval . It also shows required installation methods and specifications.
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