Non-Member Cost :

Online

$

50

25% off for CHBA BC members – learn more here

CPD Points:

1

BC Housing Competency Area:

Construction technology

Time Commitment:

1 hour

Delivery Method:

Online Recording

Course Description

As wildfires grow in frequency and severity across North America, building professionals face increasing pressure to design structures that are more likely to survive these extreme events— especially in Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) zones. Windows are among the most vulnerable elements in the building envelope during a wildfire, often acting as failure points for heat, flame, and ember intrusion.
This course provides a focused exploration of strategies to enhance window wildfire resistance in fireprone environments. Attendees will be introduced to key performance considerations for window assemblies, covering fire exposure mechanisms, material behavior, and construction details that affect survival in WUI conditions. The session will include an in-depth review of California’s State Fire Marshal (SFM) Standard Test Method 12-7A-2, which governs exterior window performance in wildfire zones. In parallel, participants will explore emerging guidance from Canadian authorities, such as the National Guide for Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Fires and FireSmart Canada. Practical insights will be delivered through concept review, test data, and design strategies, equipping architects, engineers, and builders with the tools to select window systems that help resist structure ignition while maintaining compliance and performance.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

  1. Understand how radiant heat, flame contact, and windborne embers impact window performance in WUI zones.
  2. Examine how guidance from the National Guide for Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Fires and FireSmart Canada inform fire-resistant window selection in Canadian jurisdictions.
  3. Gain familiarity with the test methodology for evaluating flame exposure resistance and performance metrics for exterior window units.
  4. Compare different frame materials, glass types, and protective systems to determine their efficacy under fire exposure. 5. Understand options when specifying and detailing windows as part of a broader wildfire-resistant building envelope, balancing code compliance and thermal performance.

This course supports health, safety, and welfare by addressing how window assemblies can mitigate wildfire damage in Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) zones. It equips design professionals with knowledge of fire exposure risks, material performance, and code requirements (e.g., California SFM 12-7A-2, FireSmart Canada), enabling safer, code-compliant buildings. The content helps protect occupants and property through improved window design and detailing in wildfire-prone environments.

PRESENTED BY: Michael Bousfield & Chris Guelpa | CASCADIA WINDOWS & DOORS

 

*This online recording was recorded from a live webinar held in May 2026.  Students who have taken the webinar for CPD are not eligible to receive CPD points for the online recording.

Course Format

All online courses require successful completion of the following components:

  • Review all course materials in full

Course Material

All course materials are contained directly within the online course modules.

Online Recording

Wildfire Resistance: Window Strategies for Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Design