CSIRO Science Image

In April 2010, researchers from CSIRO tested the effectiveness of a 'fire-proof' house to see how the structure would withstand realistic bushfire conditions.

Constructed almost entirely from steel and featuring a non-flammable roof cavity, the house may provide a straightforward and affordable building option for bushfire-prone areas.

The test house is a small low-rise building approximately 8 m x 4 m x 5 m high and includes most of the features of a domestic house. It consists of an elevated steel framed floor, steel wall framing with steel cladding and plasterboard lining and a steel truss roof with steel roof sheeting and a plasterboard ceiling. It includes steel fascia and various soft linings. The side that faced the fire front has two windows and a door.

To see an image of the house before the flame test, click here.

To see an image of the house at the height of the

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• Buildings Fire