HOMEBUILDER’S GUIDE TO CONSTRUCTION IN WILDFIRE ZONES
Technical Fact Sheet Series
FEMA P-737 / September 2008



Technical Fact Sheet Number 9
Gutters and Downspouts

Purpose

To provide guidance about installing fire-resistant gutters and downspouts to 
reduce the potential for damage to homes and other buildings from wildfires. 
Guidance pertains to both new and existing buildings.

Key Issues

Debris such as branches, leaves, and pine needles can become trapped in 
gutters (see Figure 1). The debris can be ignited by flying embers or 
firebrands during a wildfire, and the fire can spread to the roof.

[Begin figure 1]
Figure 1 is an illustration showing that Debris in gutters can ignite and 
lead to ignition of the roof or fascia board.
[End figure 1]

Gutters and downspouts are often constructed of plastic. Plastic can melt 
when exposed to the high temperatures that can occur during a wildfire. 

Guidance

Install noncombustible leaf guards over gutters to prevent the accumulation 
of combustible debris. Types of leaf guards include metal-mesh screens and 
metal hoods that fit into the gutter (see Figure 2).

[Begin figure 2]
Figure 2 is an illustration showing that leaf guards allow rainwater into the 
gutter but keep combustible debris out.
[End figure 2]

Use gutters and downspouts constructed of noncombustible materials such as 
galvanized steel, copper, and aluminum. Metal hood leaf guards are 
recommended because they do not melt and are relatively effective in keeping 
debris out of gutters (see Figure 2).

Considerations

Intense heat from a wildfire can distort noncombustible gutters, leaf guards, 
and downspouts, and they may need to be replaced after a wildfire.

Some leaf guards can become dislodged over time, reducing their 
effectiveness. 

Some types of leaf guards do not prevent all types of debris from 
accumulating in the gutter. For example, mesh-type leaf guards allow pine 
needles to accumulate. Leaf guards and gutters should therefore be checked 
regularly and debris removed if necessary. 

Effectiveness

Noncombustible gutters, leaf guards, and downspouts are effective in all Fire 
Severity Zones.