Under-Deck Ember Protection: Plan a Low-Deck Enclosure

Start your low-deck project with cleanup, measurements and an enclosure plan. Identify what must be enclosed, how the finished assembly will remain secure, and how you will inspect and maintain the area.

Why the space beneath a deck deserves attention

Leaves, needles and stored items can collect where they are difficult to see or remove. California’s Board of Forestry defensible-space guidance includes clearing flammable vegetation and items from beneath decks, balconies and stairs. Clear the area before enclosing it and provide access for ongoing maintenance.

Before requesting material, photograph the whole deck and its connection to the house. Record existing lattice, posts, stairs, changes in grade and any utilities or access points. Use these details to plan each side of the enclosure.

What the IBHS low-deck provision requires

In the December 2025 IBHS Wildfire Prepared Home Technical Standard, §2.1.5.4, the low-deck threshold is a walking surface four feet or less above the ground. For the covered low-deck area, the standard calls for noncombustible, corrosion-resistant mesh with openings no larger than 1/8 inch, fully enclosing the outer edge from walking surface to ground. Measure from the walking surface, not just the gap below a framing member.

The same section addresses under-deck vegetation, groundcover, storage, post protection and lattice placement. Include those requirements in the enclosure detail. Where combustible lattice remains, review its placement and the mesh extent with the installer and program evaluator.

For an IBHS project, use the program’s current standard and version information and include its property-wide requirements in the work plan. Check local ordinances and permit requirements with the building department.

Two measurements to keep separate

1. Height for the rule: record walking-surface-to-ground height at several locations, especially on a slope. Identify where the applicable low-deck condition occurs.

2. Geometry for fabrication and attachment: record each opening, available support and proposed attachment location. Use the attachment detail to convert the required enclosure height into finished panel dimensions and blank sizes.

Give FireTek both sets of information. Size each panel for its opening and attachment detail, and keep required access points accessible.

What to include in a DeckBarrier request

DeckBarrier is FireTek’s under-deck perimeter mesh component. DeckBarrier uses Type 304 stainless woven mesh, 0.028-inch wire and 44-inch finished panels, with heights selected for the project. Type 316 and black finish options are by request. Confirm the supports, attachment and access details with the installer.

Send a clear request containing:

• Project address or ZIP, and whether the goal is general mitigation, a local requirement, or a specific designation program.

• One labeled length for each separate side or opening, rather than only a combined perimeter.

• Walking-surface heights and opening dimensions at corners, posts, stairs and grade changes.

• Overall photos plus close-ups of the existing lattice, supports and intended attachment surfaces.

• Locations needing access, drainage clearance, inspection or coordination with utilities.

• Preferred material/finish and whether a contractor has already prepared an enclosure detail.

Use deck sizing in the free planning tools to organize the measurements. Confirm the tool’s material estimate against the joints, corners, support, attachment, access and finished fit before ordering.

Plan for maintenance before closing the perimeter

Agree on how the area will be cleaned and checked after installation. Keep photos of the original condition and completed work, identify removable access where required, and retain the product and installer records. Provide access to inspect displaced edges, corrosion, damage and new debris.

Select the fastening pattern, ground detail and panel overlap for the deck, substrate, exposure and product instructions. Have the installer review the complete detail before work starts.

Questions worth asking before you buy

What about decks over four feet? Review the applicable maintenance, building and program requirements for the structure. The four-foot threshold above applies to the IBHS low-deck enclosure provision.

How does deck work fit a Zone Zero project? Include the wider area and requirements around the structure in the plan. California statewide rulemaking, local implementation and IBHS have separate requirements. FireTek’s California Zone Zero and San Diego guide explains those distinctions.

Can an HOA coordinate the project? Yes—first establish who controls each deck and exterior area. Residents can request products for their own home; boards can organize a shared scope through HOA and community programs. Confirm permissions, responsibility and any project terms before placing an order.

Ready for a fit review? Request DeckBarrier product guidance with your photos and measurements, or call 503-739-2442. FireTek will confirm the proposed material scope, pricing and next steps.