If you are thinking about replacing your windows and you live in an area prone to bushfires, you need to think of the risk of fire when selecting your windows. There are a number of features and accessories you may want. Take a look at these window replacement ideas:

1. Tempered heat-resistant glass

If a bushfire is burning near your house and you have already evacuated, you want to minimise the chances that your home will catch on fire. In regard to windows, you want to ensure that the windows don't break in the heat and let fire inside where it can burn through the interior of your home. To protect your home, ideally, you want tempered glass because of its heat resistant qualities. Also, look for the thickest glass you can find and preferably choose double pane windows for their extra insulating value against heat from fires.

2. Fire-resistant window frames

In addition to choosing your glass carefully, also consider replacing your window frames. In many cases, if you have fireproof insulation between your walls and heat-resistant glass, your window frames may be the weak link in your external wall. If you have old, worn out wood frames, in particular, consider replacing them. Ideally, you want metal window frames that won't catch on fire easily.

3. Metal screen

To prevent embers from flying toward your house, hitting the glass and potentially causing it to heat up and break, screens can help. Look for screens made of metal mesh rather than synthetic fibres, as the metal is more heat resistant. These screens work in a similar way to how metal grates keep embers from flying out of your fireplace.

4. Roll down shutters

Roll down shutters, installed internally or externally, can provide another layer of protection. Metal shutters, in particular, stop fire from spreading in these areas, adding extra protection to your windows. The only downside of rolldown shutters, however, is that you have to take time to roll them down for them to work. If you are trying to evacuate your home quickly, you may not have time.

5. Removing combustibles

Finally, support your fire-resistant windows by removing any combustible materials that are near them. If your siding is not fire resistant, this may be a great time to change it. Similarly, if you have a propane generator or a grill next to your window, move that as well -- if it ignites, it could cause the window to explode, allowing the fire to get inside.