Wind-Driven Fire Spread to a Structure from Composite Fences

This NIST study reveals how composite fences can rapidly channel flames toward nearby structures during wind-driven wildland-urban interface (WUI) fires. Through full-scale outdoor experiments, researchers observed how fence design, material composition, and surrounding fine fuels like mulch dramatically affect fire spread, flame height, and firebrand generation. Some composite fences produced intense flames, melting, dripping, or collapsing in ways that widened the burning zone and increased risks to homes and safe egress routes. The findings underscore why communities need improved standards, safer material choices, and better fuel management around structures to reduce WUI fire hazards.