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Architectural shading can include large eaves, a porch roof, a well-designed pergola, or other building elements

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A screened-in porch will protect windows from rain, provide shade, and allow more airflow through windows than window screens would

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This house has key features to block heat such as such as tree shading for the west wall and roof, minimized west-facing windows, and a porch roof, floor, and wing walls creating deep architectural overhangs and fins to shade south-facing windows

Right - This house has key features to block heat such as such as tree shading for the west wall and roof, minimized west-facing windows, and a porch roof, floor, and wing walls creating deep architectural overhangs and fins to shade south-facing windows

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Fire Resistant Decks, Patios, and Porches

Reference

Webpage from FireSafe Marin explaining the vulnerability of different deck setups and materials.

FireWise Construction: Site Design & Building Materials

Reference

Wildfire construction guidelines from the Colorado State Forest Service focusing on site design and building materials to mitigate damage to homes in wildfire-prone areas.

FORTIFIED Animation: Attached Structures

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Video showing how to retrofit or install attached structures to a home properly to comply with IBHS FORTIFIED Home requirements.

Porches, Carports, and Deck Attachments

Guide

Guide describing how to install appropriate connectors to provide a continuous load path to improve the wind resistance of attached porches, carports, and decks during high-wind events.