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 | Aug 31, 2018
Trade war could make adaptive reuse more attractive
Higher cost of building materials could make rehab a better financial bet.
Codes and Standards | Aug 30, 2018
Metrics should guide strategy for schools seeking LEED certification
Assessing current status helps direct where improvements can have greatest impact.
Codes and Standards | Aug 29, 2018
The 2018 IAPMO solar and swimming pool codes now available
For installation and inspection of public and private swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs.
Codes and Standards | Aug 28, 2018
New York’s green roof program needs reform
Despite incentives, few owners add vegetative roofs.
Codes and Standards | Aug 24, 2018
Resilience, sustainability emphasized in plans for new 23,000-acre city in the Philippines
“A backup for when Manila fails.”
Codes and Standards | Aug 23, 2018
Cities promote deconstruction of old homes with mixed results
Market factors complicate efforts to recycle material from old structures.
Codes and Standards | Aug 22, 2018
Oregon is first state to change building code to allow tall mass timber buildings
Statewide alternate method allows early technical consideration and approval.
Codes and Standards | Aug 21, 2018
First mass timber panel made from structural composite lumber gets APA certification
Said to be much more cost effective than CLT options.
Codes and Standards | Aug 17, 2018
Zoning changes can be crucial to filling large, empty retail spaces
Alternative uses often require action by local officials.
Codes and Standards | Aug 16, 2018
Nearly a quarter of opioid overdose deaths attributable to construction workers
Massachusetts public health study finds pressure to work in pain contributes to problem.
