Wood and bark mulches are combustible and should be used with caution within 30 feet of the house or other structures. This is of particular concern for buildings constructed of combustible materials, such as wood siding. Since mulches have the potential to carry fire, they should not be arranged in a continuous manner that would connect flammable vegetation with the house. They should not be used within 3 to 5 feet of combustible buildings, decks, fences, etc. In addition to wood and bark mulches, shredded rubber mulches are also a fire hazard and should not be used within 30 feet of a house or other structures.
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Are wood and bark mulches good choices for defensible space?
Last Updated: October 01, 2009
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