At Sterling Custom Homes, we would like to express our condolences to those affected by the recent fires in the Austin area. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families who continue to struggle with the loss of their homes. We would also like to express our gratitude to the firefighters and volunteers who have worked so hard to contain the fires that have threatened our communities.

Extreme drought conditions increasingly put the Austin area and our Austin luxury real estate in danger of wildfires. According to Texas Forest Service, in the past 7 days, 156,517 acres of Texas were burned by wildfires, as more than 162 acres were razed in Steiner Ranch destroying 23 homes. More than 35,000 acres in Bastrop County were scorched taking with it over 1,400 homes. At Sterling Custom Homes, we would like to stress the importance of observing fire prevention measures, especially in the drought situation we are facing.

Now more than ever, it is imperative to make sure your home and, more importantly, your family are protected as best as possible against the threat of fires. The following are some tips you can use to protect your family, community, and home.

  • Observe the burn bans in effect
  • When driving, do not discard cigarette ends, lit or unlit, out the window
  • When cooking or barbequing, never leave the stove or grill unattended
  • Have a fire extinguisher handy and know how to use it before the moment you need to
  • Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly and change batteries annually

For more information about fire safety and prevention see the U.S.  Fire Administration.

As a leading Austin custom home builder, we do our best to combat the threat of fire beginning with our construction process. Before we begin to build, we ensure that a fire hydrant system is in place in the development we are building. During site preparation we clear the land of brush and other debris that could potentially aid in the expansion of fire.

While construction takes place, we keep lumber and other materials in designated areas and keep the site clean and organized. Once the home is enclosed with roof, stucco, and windows, the home’s protection from the threat of wildfires significantly increases.

Even after our customers move in, our construction methods help to prevent fire spread from the flooring system, to the walls between rooms, to the attic. The safety of your luxury custom home before, during, and after construction is definitely one of our top priorities.

For more information about Sterling Custom Homes or our Austin luxury real estate, visit our website.