When we talk about defending our homes from wildfire, we often focus on the main house—but detached structures like sheds, garages, and ADUs can be just as critical. These secondary buildings can become ignition sources during a wildfire and may even spread fire to your primary home if they’re not protected.

For California homeowners—especially in high-risk fire zones like Orinda, Lafayette, Moraga, and the Oakland Hills—fireproofing these outbuildings should be part of your wildfire defense strategy.

When preparing your home for a wildfire, one of the most important steps is selecting the right building materials. Unfortunately, not all materials are created equal, and some can increase the vulnerability of your home during a wildfire. This blog will outline the top 10 materials to avoid in wildfire zones, helping you make informed choices when protecting your home.