How to Install Ember Resistant Vents

Wildfires are becoming more frequent and intense across California, and protecting your home from ember intrusion is one of the most effective defenses you can make. Research from CAL FIRE, IBHS, NFPA, Firewise USA, and NIST has proven that most home ignitions begin when embers enter vents, gaps, or exposed materials.

That’s why Wildfire Defense Mesh is a leading solution — designed and tested to resist direct flame, radiant heat, and ember penetration. This tutorial walks you through how to install Wildfire Defense Mesh on the five most common vent types: foundation vents, gable vents, soffit vents, dormer vents, and plumbing vents.

Why Wildfire Defense Mesh Matters

Wildfire Defense Mesh is fully compliant with California Building Code Chapter 7A, meeting state requirements for vent ember resistance. The fine 1/16” wire openings prevent embers from passing through while maintaining airflow for attic and crawlspace ventilation.

When installed correctly, it forms a durable, code-compliant barrier that significantly reduces the risk of ember ignition inside your home.

Tools and Materials Needed

• Wildfire Defense Mesh (available in 7.5", 24", 36", 49", and 60" rolls)

• Tin snips or metal shears

• Measuring tape

• Painter’s tape (for marking cuts)

• Metal folding tool, wrench, or hard edge for bending

• Screws (masonry or self-tapping metal, depending on surface)

• Power drill

• Clear silicone or exterior-grade caulk

• Gloves and eye protection
  
  

Foundation Vents

Step 1: Remove Old Mesh or Screens
Cut away any painted-over or corroded mesh to improve airflow and create a clean surface for the new installation.

Step 2: Measure and Cut
Measure the vent opening and add 1 inch of overlap on all sides. For example, a 14” x 5.5” vent should be cut as 16” x 7.5”.

Use tin snips to cut along one continuous wire to prevent fraying.

Step 3: Bend and Prepare Edges
Fold over ½ inch on each edge to strengthen the perimeter and give screws a solid grip. You can use a wrench or flat edge to help bend the metal cleanly.

Step 4: Attach Mesh
Screw the mesh directly into the wall every 3–6 inches, ensuring tight contact between mesh and surface.
If the wall is uneven (like stucco), apply a bead of silicone or caulk around the edges to seal gaps and block ember intrusion.

Gable Vents

Step 1: Measure and Cut Mesh
Cut your mesh to overlap the gable vent by at least one inch on all sides.

Step 2: Attach to Frame
Using self-tapping metal screws, attach the mesh directly to the metal vent frame or surrounding surface. For stucco homes, pre-drill holes using a masonry bit before fastening.

Step 3: Secure and Seal
Once screws are in place, run a small bead of clear silicone around the edges for a clean finish and airtight seal.

 Safety Tip: When working on a ladder or roofline, always prioritize stability — if you feel unsteady, take a break or hire a professional installer.

Soffit (Eave) Vents

Step 1: Remove Old Mesh
Old soffit screens often become brittle or painted over. Remove them completely to maximize ventilation.

Step 2: Prepare and Attach
Cut Wildfire Defense Mesh to size, then fasten using hex-head self-tapping screws spaced evenly along the edges.
Do not overtighten — once the screw touches the surface, stop drilling to avoid stripping the hole.

Step 3: Finish with Silicone
Seal the perimeter with silicone to prevent ember entry between uneven surfaces.

Dormer / Off-Ridge Vents

Roof vents are among the most vulnerable spots for ember entry due to their direct exposure to falling embers.

Step 1: Measure and Cut
Measure your vent and add 2 inches of overlap on each side. Wildfire Defense Mesh’s 7.5” width is ideal for smaller vents.

Step 2: Bend for Fit
Bend the mesh along the weave lines for a clean shape. Overbend slightly, then press back to create sharp corners and tight seams.

Step 3: Secure to Roof
Use sheet metal screws with rubber washers to create a watertight seal. These fasteners prevent leaks while anchoring the mesh securely to flashing and roof surfaces.

Because this involves roof access, consider hiring a qualified installer if you’re uncomfortable working at height.

Plumbing and Foundation Penetrations

For round or irregular openings, cut Wildfire Defense Mesh into a circle or wrap form to fit around the vent pipe.

Secure with a metal clamp, screw band, or high-temp sealant to ensure full contact around the entire perimeter.

This step prevents ember entry into attics or crawlspaces through small, overlooked gaps.

Finishing the Job

Once your vents are protected, inspect your work:

• Ensure there are no open edges or gaps.
  
  

• Confirm that airflow remains adequate.
  
  

• Double-check that all screws are secure and that silicone has cured.
  
  

Wildfire Defense Mesh provides long-lasting protection against ember intrusion — one of the most common causes of home ignition during wildfires.

Beyond the Vents: Full Home Protection

Installing ember-resistant mesh is a crucial step, but true wildfire defense includes:

• Clearing combustible materials within 0–5 feet of your home.
  
  

• Maintaining defensible space out to 100 feet.
  
  

• Replacing fences or decks attached to the home with non-combustible materials.
  
  

• Using fire-resistant coatings on siding, eaves, and decks.
  
  

Each of these upgrades works together to make your home “Safer From Wildfires.”

Get Help from Wildfire Warden

If you’d prefer a professional inspection or installation, Wildfire Warden offers full-service home hardening and ember defense assessments across Ventura County.

We use Wildfire Defense Mesh and other CAL FIRE–approved materials, ensuring your upgrades meet Chapter 7A and insurance standards.