What Bushfire Attack Level ratings mean for your cladding choice, and why a non-combustible substrate matters on bushfire-prone land.
What is a BAL
Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) is a measure of a building's potential exposure to ember attack, radiant heat and direct flame, set out in AS 3959. It ranges from BAL-LOW through BAL-12.5, 19, 29, 40 and the highest, BAL-FZ (flame zone). The higher the rating, the more stringent the construction requirements.
Why the substrate matters
Aluminium is non-combustible when tested to AS 1530.1. On bushfire-prone land, using a non-combustible substrate for external cladding removes one source of fuel and helps meet the construction requirements that apply at higher BAL ratings.
Compliance is system-wide
It is important to understand that a BAL rating applies to the whole building element, not a single product. Detailing - gaps, junctions, the backing material and how the wall is built up - all matter. We are happy to discuss how our cladding and battens fit into a compliant wall system for your BAL.
Eaves and soffits
Eaves and soffits are a common weak point in bushfire because embers collect there. Non-combustible aluminium soffit linings are a sensible choice for these areas on bushfire-prone blocks.
Get your BAL assessed
Your BAL is determined by a bushfire assessment of your site. Once you know it, talk to us about the right products and detailing - the warmth of a timber look does not have to be off the table just because you are on bushfire-prone land.