BAL-FZ • Ember-Safe • Earth-Sheltered
Bushfire Resistant Buildings
Bushfire Resistant Buildings are our specialty. We combine earth-sheltered forms, non-combustible materials, and carefully detailed junctions to resist radiant heat, flying embers and direct flame contact—while staying beautiful, cool and low-maintenance.
Core Principles of Bushfire Resistant Buildings
Effective bushfire design eliminates ignition pathways and reduces heat load. Our approach prioritises compact massing, simplified roofs, shielded openings and continuous non-combustible skins that interrupt ember entry—an ember-resistant architecture that performs during the event and for decades after.
Shield & Simplify
- Compact forms with minimal eaves and concealed gutters
- Protected entries, airlocks and fire-rated doors
- Roof geometries that avoid ember traps
Seal & Screen
- Stainless steel mesh to AS 3959 requirements
- Sealed junctions; no gaps > 2 mm
- Filtered, closable ventilation paths
Specify Non-Combustible
- Concrete, masonry, dense earth berms
- Metal roofing with sealed ridge/valley
- Aluminium or steel window/door systems
Design for Maintenance
- Accessible gutters and leaf guards
- Gravel buffers and low-fuel landscaping
- Durable finishes that age gracefully
Designing for BAL-FZ, BAL-40 and Below
Every site receives a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating under AS 3959. We tailor Bushfire Resistant Buildings to your specific BAL—from BAL-12.5 through BAL-FZ (Flame Zone). At the upper end, we use concrete shells, protected openings, fire-rated shutters and measured setbacks to handle radiant heat and potential flame contact.
Why Earth-Sheltered Houses Excel in Bushfire Country
Earth-sheltered houses naturally reduce exposed surfaces and shield vulnerable elevations. The ground becomes a protective layer, moderating temperature and buffering radiant heat. With careful waterproofing and drainage, these homes are quiet, energy-efficient and exceptionally resilient.
Explore our approach to earth-sheltered houses and how we integrate them within landscape and views while meeting BAL-FZ obligations.
Key Detailing for Bushfire Building Compliance
Bushfire building compliance is achieved in the details: junctions, vents, penetrations and edges. We document each interface so that the builder, certifier and council have a clear, coordinated set to follow. Typical packages include:
- Site plan with BAL overlays and defendable space
- Thermal & smoke separation at entries/airlocks
- Roof edge closures; ember-proof valleys and ridges
- Stainless steel mesh to vents, weepholes and sub-floor
- Non-combustible cladding and insulated concrete forms
- Windows/doors with compliant glazing, seals and screens
- Water storage, pumps and external hydrants (where applicable)
Deliverables
Our submission sets typically include:
- Concepts, sections and 3D viewpoints
- Specification schedules and product selections
- AS 3959 compliance notes and details
- Coordination with engineering and bushfire consultant
Recent Bushfire Resistant Buildings
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FAQs: Bushfire Resistant Buildings
Do I need a BAL assessment before design?
Yes. BAL influences siting, glazing and materials. We can organise this up front so the design pathway is clear.
Are earth-sheltered houses compliant in BAL-FZ?
With the right detailing and documentation, earth-sheltered homes can satisfy BAL-FZ requirements while improving comfort and energy performance.
What adds the most protection per dollar?
Simplified forms, sealed roof edges, screened vents and non-combustible cladding provide large gains without bespoke components.
Can you help with council approvals?
Yes. We prepare coordinated, council-ready documentation with clear AS 3959 notes and details to streamline approvals.
Plan a Safer Home
Book a quick chat with an architect to discuss your site, BAL rating and options.