Cementitious Fireproofing

What is fireproofing?

Fireproofing is now a requirement for multi-family properties and commercial buildings. Even in cases where the building is built from metal, fireproofing should not be ignored. It will keep you safe in case of fire and it serves as a coat to prevent electrical circuits from overheating.

There are several methods available to builders and architects to consider for fire prevention. Active fireproofing (AFP) refers to installing equipment that are triggered by an action such as a sprinkler system or fire extinguisher.

Spray applied cementitious fireproofing is specified by architects and favored by applicators to protect buildings structural steel from failure in the event of fire. The materials Urecoat supplies are designed to meet the strict building codes and insurance industry specifications for today’s building structures.

Passive fireproofing (PFP) is a relevant safeguard measure to be considered from the initial stages of construction and is implemented in the design elements. By using the right system, the spread of fire and smoke can be prevented successfully resulting in ample time for evacuation and the appropriate protocols to be executed. Some examples are fire doors, room compartmentalization and the installation of the fire-resistant coating.

Cementitious Fireproofing

The cementitious products are the most common materials used for fireproofing services. It is a single component, spray applied, mill-mixed plaster designed to protect the structural foundation of the building from failing. This can be applied to concealed and exposed steel structures.

Nowadays cementitious coatings are relatively inexpensive materials for fireproofing. Though labor does have the potential to drive up the cost of these jobs, since they must be applied in several, successive layers, they are still well-suited for dry environments where the substrate is not expected to be exposed to heavy vibrations and/or impact.

Products can be applied to steel and concrete substrates. They form a uniform base, solid bond and dust-free surface providing exceptional performance with a high yield capability and durability. The chosen products are tested and certified to the highest industry standards.

The fireproof coating is used as well to cover concrete tunnels and metal bridges and even to coat vaults. Fireproofing is made from common ingredients that are tested and suggested by the building industry, including Monokote MK-6, Cafco Blaze Shield and Cafco 300. These materials are combined with chemicals such as calcium hydroxide, mica, fibrous plasters and other combinations to speed up hardening. It does not include asbestos and it is safe to use in homes and commercial buildings.

Types of Cementitious Fireproofing

• Standard-Density Cementitious Fireproofing:

The standard-density fireproofing has the below-listed qualities, and it is appropriate to use in locations that are not subject to physical contact or abuse.

Benefits of standard Density Cementitious Fireproofing:

1. No Flame Spread or Smoke Developed
2. It is established as non-combustible
3. Standard-density is more than the minimum of 15 pcf (240kg/m2)
4. No cracking, spalling or delamination
5. Compression shall be more than 16.25 lbf/in2 (112 kPa)
6. Erosion shall be 0.00 gr/sq.ft. maximum
7. There is no evidence of corrosion allowed
8. There is no evidence of mold growth

• Medium-Density Cementitious Fireproofing

For exposed applications of sprayed fire-resistive materials, manufacturers have to comply with standards and the products need to fulfill the materials and composition requirements along with the minimum physical properties as per ASTM regulations.

Exposed fire protection shall include, but are not limited to the following areas:

1. Stairwell columns and beams
2. Elevator shafts structural steel
3. Mechanical room columns
4. Areas where physical abuse may be encountered

• High-Density Cementitious Fireproofing:

High-density fire protection shall be defined as permanently exposed to weather, and shall be manufactured of cement-based products, with lightweight aggregate, with a minimum density of 40 PCF, and will need to abide to the following requirements as per ASTM:

1. No Flame Spread or Smoke Developed
2. It is established as non-combustible
3. No delamination, cracking or spalling
4. No cracking, spalling or delamination
5. Compression shall be more than 350 psi (2411 kPa)
6. Erosion shall be 0.00 gr/sq.ft.
7. No evidence of corrosion
8. No evidence of mold growth

Why use Fireproofing?

Fireproofing protects that steel structure for a given period of time-or rating. Said differently, fireproofing is the protection added to the steel from high heat, conserving the strength and stability of the structure.

Stability of the structure is extremely critical as you, the occupant, need time to evacuate and the 1st responders need time to go in. Obviously, what’s at stake here are people’s lives.

Additional Information

There are different types of fireproofing applications available and our focus is mainly on cementitious and intumescent fireproofing. Fireproofing methods and building usually are rated in minutes, based on tests conducted. So, if you get a rate for 60 minutes for the fireproofing method means it should help maintain structural integrity for at least 60 minutes. Obviously, the higher the rating, the more time that buys for evacuation and for extinguishing the fire while limiting damage.Actual building requirements vary based on the building's intended use, location, and other factors.

Why choose us?

We at EcoStar Insulation strive to provide the best quality products and the highest standard of expertise. Our service includes a free consultation with an estimator where you have the opportunity to discuss application, products and design options available for your project. Our team will guide you from the consultation to the execution stage. Contact us for your free estimate.

With a range of fireproofing products available in the market, we utilize only the best materials. This includes:

Monokote: Sprayed applied fireproofing

Carboline Fireproofing Products