Modern building codes and construction techniques were effective in saving buildings from the devastating Maui wildfire on August 9th, according to a recent report, IBHS Early Insights Lahaina Fire—2023, from the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety’s research division.
The report cited a residential development, consisting of a mix of single-family homes and a cluster of multifamily units built between 2019 and 2020, that escaped destruction. The structures survived the conflagration at least partly due to fire retardant construction and modern building codes, the report says.
The exteriors of several of these buildings did ignite, but they were not consumed by flames. “Hawaii’s modern building code has high-wind requirements that introduced elements that helped newer construction resist wildfire conditions,” the report says.
Despite the buildings being located close together, the development was spared in part because of:
- Class A roof covers—specifically asphalt shingles and metal
- Non-combustible exterior wall materials
- High wind-rated attic vents that prevented embers from entering the attic space
Notably, the report adds that landscape vegetation did not cover as much ground as it did in other locations that were destroyed by the fire. This provided less fuel for the flames to jump from one structure to another.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Mar 4, 2021
Biden administration overturns Trump’s federal building design mandate
Previous order promoted classical and “traditional” architecture above others.
Codes and Standards | Mar 3, 2021
Texas freeze raises questions about risks of electrifying buildings
Gas stoves helped residents cook, boil water when power went out.
Codes and Standards | Mar 2, 2021
New Seattle building code eliminates fossil fuels for most space and water heating
Also increases on-site solar photovoltaics, reduces envelope heat loss, air leakage, and interior lighting power allowances.
Codes and Standards | Feb 25, 2021
It’s not just lumber—roofing material prices are also on the rise
Lower demand for petroleum products means less asphalt production.
Codes and Standards | Feb 23, 2021
USGBC offers education on LEED Safety First pilot credits
Four courses address COVID-19.
Codes and Standards | Feb 23, 2021
ASHRAE Epidemic Task Force releases updated Building Readiness Guide
Includes flush calculations to reduce time and energy to clear contaminants between occupancy periods.
Codes and Standards | Feb 22, 2021
Preservation of Affordable Housing develops climate resilience strategy
Includes backup power for resident and staff “area of refuge”.
Codes and Standards | Feb 18, 2021
Construction industry moves toward comprehensive U.S. BIM standard
NIBS hosts roundtable to create coordinated program to advance collaboration.
Codes and Standards | Feb 17, 2021
Construction on international sports venues is ripe for corruption
Poor planning, complex contracting, a lack of accountability and high levels of collusion to blame.
Codes and Standards | Feb 16, 2021
Feds may fund removal of some urban highways
Senate bill proposes pilot program to reknit communities.
