WILDFIRE HOME TOOL · EDITABLE PROJECT BUDGET
Wildfire Home Retrofit Cost Calculator
Build a transparent low-to-high planning range across the building envelope, ember-entry points, attachments and the immediate noncombustible zone.
| Include | Work category | Quantity | Unit | Low / unit | High / unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 0 surfaceGravel, pavers or other selected treatment | |||||
| Roof coveringSelected assembly or covering scope | |||||
| Ember-resistant ventsAttic, crawlspace or foundation openings | |||||
| Gutters and guardsSelected gutter, guard or edge work | |||||
| Eaves and soffitsEnclosure or selected retrofit work | |||||
| Exterior wall coveringSiding, cladding or lower-wall clearance scope | |||||
| Windows and skylightsSelected glazing or opening upgrades | |||||
| Deck or porchSurface, underside or connection scope | |||||
| Fence transition and gatesSelected near-building noncombustible section | |||||
| Vegetation and fuel workSelected defensible-space work area |
READ THE RANGE CORRECTLY
A budgeting worksheet—not a scope of work.
The low and high totals reflect only selected rows, entered quantities and unit allowances. A qualified assessment may identify different assemblies, access constraints, code requirements or sequencing.
A higher budget does not automatically mean greater risk reduction. This tool does not prioritize measures, certify compliance, estimate insurance effects or predict structure survival.
BUILD THE ESTIMATE
From observed vulnerability to priced scope.
Use an assessment to define work, measure quantities, insert comparable local quotations, then retain contingency appropriate to project uncertainty.
Identify
Record the building component and exposure being addressed.
Measure
Use consistent quantities and units for each work category.
Price
Enter current local low and high unit allowances or quotations.
Validate
Review design, permits, access, interfaces and exclusions.
Why these work categories appear
CAL FIRE, FEMA and the IBHS Wildfire Prepared Home technical standard address vulnerabilities across roofs, gutters, vents, eaves, exterior walls, windows, decks and the area immediately around structures. Their inclusion here is a budgeting framework—not a claim that every property needs every line item.
CAL FIRE: Home hardening · FEMA P-737 · IBHS technical standard
Quick answers
Are the loaded prices reliable for my location?
No. They are illustrative values that demonstrate the calculator. Replace them with current local quotations in the same currency and units.
Does changing currency convert the prices?
No. It changes only the displayed currency label. This avoids hiding an exchange-rate assumption.
Does the high total include every possible project cost?
No. It excludes anything not entered, including tax, financing, escalation, concealed conditions, temporary works and maintenance.