Wildfires are increasing, so why is wood a popular building tool in hotspots?

Wildfires are increasing, so why are houses in America still being made of wood?

Transcript

00:00As wildfires devastate communities across the United States, a pressing question emerges.

00:05Why are homes still being built with wood?

00:08According to the National Association of Home Builders, nearly 90% of homes built in 2019

00:13were wood-framed.

00:15This choice is deeply rooted in tradition and practicality, but is it still wise given

00:19the increasing wildfire threat?

00:22Wood has been favored for its affordability and flexibility.

00:25It can withstand low-intensity earthquakes and light tornadoes.

00:29The United States' robust logging industry ensures timber remains plentiful and cost-effective,

00:34making it a go-to material for builders.

00:37However, wood's combustibility is a significant concern.

00:41With wildfires becoming more frequent and severe, as seen in Los Angeles where at least

00:4510 people have died, wooden homes are at high risk of destruction.