Long-time home inspector Darrel Geislinger is shocked by how close together two new homes are being constructed - less than six feet. "All it takes is a hot barbecue or an open fire pit just to ignite one."
Fire officials say there needs to be another layer of drywall underneath, or what happened in the MacEwan neighbourhood Saturday morning could happen again. Exterior grade drywall under vinyl siding is actually a recommendation by vinyl siding manufacturers, but because it's not in Alberta's building codes, it's not a requirement.
Extra drywall is already placed in common walls between multi-family units. Officials say that would cost $1,000 to $2,000 to do in an average home. Stucco or brick offers more protection, but that protection comes at a price. According to Clark Rasmussen of Coventry Homes, compared to vinyl siding - brick costs seven times more, and stucco costs two times more.
If you want to spend the money on your new home or renovations, there are options. Fire-code drywall has built-in fire retardants.
There is also insulation made of recycled rock. It can withstand heat, up to about 1,150ºC. The recycled rock insulation costs only 10% more than regular insulation.
Instead of vinyl siding, you can install coloured cement siding. But it will cost you 50% more than traditional vinyl siding.
Officials say fire-code drywall, which is about $6 more per sheet, can keep a fire out for up to 90 minutes, compared to 20 minutes with regular drywall.
You may also want to have a closer look at what's on your roof. After the massive forest fire that destroyed more than 230 homes in Kelowna in 2003, a debate began over the flammable nature of cedar shake shingles. Homes blocks away from that fire were ignited by airborne sparks landing on rooftops.
However, putting less flammable building materials on your new home may be easier said than done. Builders say developers have strict architectural controls in many neighbourhoods - controlling everything from the type of shingles, to the kind of siding.
© July 24, 2007: Global News Edmonton
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