Embers landing on poorly maintained timber window sills can ignite your home

Window sills are one of the most exposed parts of a house during a bushfire.

If timber sills are cracked, weathered, or covered in flammable debris, they can catch alight when embers land.

Risks

When embers settle on neglected sills:

• Dry timber can smoulder and ignite
• Paint flakes and dust acts as fuel
• Flames can spread into window frames and curtains
• Broken seals allow embers to enter the house interior

A single ember landing on a damaged sill can start a fire inside your home.

Fixes

Maintain and protect timber sills from ember attack

Quick fix: Clean windowsills regularly. Remove dust, cobwebs, and leaf litter before fire season. Check paint and sealant for cracks or peeling.

Long-term fix:

• Keep timber sills well-painted and sealed to prevent ember ignition
• Fit metal flashing or ember-proof screens around window frames
• Close windows and shutters on high-risk days
• Consider upgrading to non-combustible materials when renovating

These simple actions reduce ember entry and protect vulnerable timber surfaces.

Why it matters

Windows are a major weak point in bushfire defence. Maintaining and protecting sills helps stop embers from entering and igniting your home.

Take action today

• Inspect and repaint timber sills
• Clear debris from window ledges
• Close windows and shutters on high-risk days
• Upgrade to ember-resistant materials when possible
• Include sill maintenance in your seasonal fire readiness checklist

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