Older homes deserve a property-specific review
Age alone does not tell you how vulnerable a home is. An older San Diego home may have been re-roofed, re-sided, re-vented or remodeled several times. Another home from the same era may still have original exterior details. Start with what is actually present rather than replacing components solely because of the construction year.
Exterior details commonly worth checking
- Attic, gable, soffit and foundation vent openings
- Open eaves, roof edges and gaps where embers could collect
- Roof and gutter condition, including accumulated debris
- Older windows, siding and exterior penetrations
- Combustible fences, decks or attachments close to the structure
- Vegetation and other combustible material immediately next to the home
Start with maintenance before assuming replacement
Some vulnerabilities are maintenance issues; others require repair or a purpose-built retrofit. A clear assessment should distinguish debris removal, sealing or repair work from components that genuinely need replacement.
Be careful when modifying ventilation
Older homes can have ventilation systems that were designed around the existing openings. Adding mesh or changing vents can affect airflow. Current California guidance recommends consulting the local building official about ventilation requirements before replacing or covering vents.
Prioritize work instead of doing everything at once
Use our San Diego home-hardening priorities guide to group projects by vulnerability, condition and practicality. If the property has many unknowns, request a home-hardening assessment first.
Official reference: Ready for Wildfire — Hardening Your Home.