Verandah and deck posts are often overlooked, but in a bushfire they can become a direct ignition point right beside your home.
When exposed to radiant heat or flying embers, timber posts can:
Trap embers at the base where debris collects
Ignite quickly, especially if grass or leaf litter sits against them
Carry flames upwards into verandahs, eaves, and roof spaces
Radiate heat directly into nearby windows, cladding, and door frames
Spread fire to adjoining decking, steps, or timber walls
A burning post beside your home is enough to start a structural fire.
Applying steel sheet wrapping
Fixes
Quick fix: Clear grass, leaf litter and debris from around verandah posts. Keep the base area swept and free of flammable material.
Long-term fix: Install simple protective measures that stop posts from igniting:
Fit a metal support shoe that finishes 75 mm above ground level
Add a sheet steel cover around the lower 400–800 mm of each post
Ensure no gaps where embers can lodge
Keep vegetation trimmed back from posts year-round
These small upgrades make posts far more resistant to radiant heat and ember attack.
Why it matters
Posts are the link between the ground and your home. If they ignite, flames travel straight into the structure — verandahs, roof spaces, and external walls. Protecting them is a simple job that prevents a major fire.
Take action today
Clear debris from around verandah posts
Fit metal support shoes to existing posts
Add sheet steel collars or covers to the lower section
Keep grass trimmed and leaf litter away from post bases
Include post protection in renovation or rebuild plans
For more on hardening your home, visit our Resource Hub
