Sun FireDefense protects homes from fire

Jim Moseley is passionate about saving peoples' homes from wildfire. Based in the Los Angeles area, he's seen the devastation wrought by conflagrations such as the Thomas fire, which destroyed hundreds of homes in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties.

Moseley and his company Sun FireDefense offer innovative technology to protect homes from fire - with spray coatings and insulating roof blankets that can keep a home from igniting from embers that can sometimes fly far ahead of a wildfire. That technology is now available in Sisters Country.

Moseley has connections in Central Oregon, and earlier this year he began seeking contractors to provide Sun FireDefense's products and services in this fire-ridden region. Moseley told The Nugget that he recently saw the effects of the Milli Fire.

"On my way here, you could see it," he said. "I didn't know the magnitude of it."

Many neighborhoods were evacuated in last summer's fire; fortunately, no homes were lost. Moseley and contractor Ambrose Su say that use of Sun FireDefense's technology can offer peace of mind when you're forced to leave your home in the face of an advancing blaze like the Milli Fire.

"If you do have to be evacuated, if your house has been treated, you have the peace of mind that you've done all you can," Su said.

Sun FireDefense's primary line of defense is a spray coating that protects a structure, including vulnerable areas like under eaves where a fire can catch hold.

According to the Sun FireDefense website, "SPF 3000 Clear Spray is an innovative long-lasting fire retardant that provides protection against heat and burning embers up to 3,000 degrees F. The silicone-based ceramic formula penetrates and bonds with wood and other building materials, insulating against heat transfer and creating a self-extinguishing reaction when hit by flame.

This prevents the ignition and spread of dangerous flames to treated surfaces.

It is typically professionally applied to the exterior of a structure, or to framing or roofing, using an airless sprayer.

SPF 3000 offers Class A fire protection to cedar shake shingles, open-air roof systems, decking, and structural lumber."

"Basically it's like a supper-high-quality paint job," Su explained.

In fact, the protectant can be mixed into paint, making it a natural upgrade when painting your house.

Roof protection is critical to fire safety - even with fire-resistant shingles. Heat can cause fire to break out on the underlayment of an untreated roof.

"If we can treat the plywood under the roof, that's optimal," Moseley said. "If the person's getting a new roof, (treatment) is a no-brainer."

Su noted that the product is effective on wood siding and hardyboard, both in common use in Sisters.

"Decks are another prime fire-protection target," he said.

Other Sun FireDefense products include a clear shield coating for windows and insulating roof blankets.

Moseley notes that those considering treatment should inquire with their insurance company about the possibility of discounts based on treatment.

With large fires already burning in Central Oregon, Moseley expects a rush to get protected. Free assessments and estimates are available by calling Su at 541-666-9932. For more information visit www.sunfiredefensenw.com.