How to Know You Need to Repair Your Cementitious Fireproofing
In commercial buildings, safety precautions are vital to protecting your assets, property, and the safety of building occupants. As a result, building owners are investing more heavily in enhanced safety features. Cementitious fireproofing is a worthwhile investment for building owners looking to significantly reduce the risk of structural damage and building collapse in the case of a fire. However, over time, it is possible for cementitious fireproofing to become damaged to the point of repair. This is why building owners should regularly assess theirs and look out for signs of concern. If you are looking to invest in fireproofing services in Toronto or need to upgrade your existing fireproofing, contact EcoStar Insulation today!
What is Cementitious Fireproofing?
Cementitious fireproofing in Toronto is a very popular method of fire protection, especially for larger commercial buildings. This fireproofing is unique in that it is directly applied to metal and concrete structures in your building. This gives it excellent protective properties, and it is designed to prevent the structure of your building from collapsing in the chance of a fire.
Cementitious fireproofing can last for over an hour under extreme conditions and can withstand over 1000 degrees Celsius.
This is extremely beneficial as:
- It allows building occupants much more time to exit the building before its structure is compromised
- It can help minimize reconstruction costs after the fire is put out
- It provides rescue forces with ample time to contain and eliminate the fire before severe structural damage is sustained
- Signs You Need to Repair Your Cementitious Fireproofing
Visible Cracks and Damage
Every so often, it is wise to conduct an inspection of your fireproofing to ensure that there are no cracks, visible damage or chunks missing from the coating. Any area in which there are gaps in your fireproofing means that they are going to be susceptible to heat damage and collapse during a fire. This is why it is vital that you conduct inspections of your fireproofing, as water leaks or construction can impact its adhesion. If you notice any cracks or gapping, call in a professional team for fireproofing services as soon as possible.
Discolouration
If you notice discolouration in any areas where your cementitious fireproofing has been installed, it is likely that it has been damaged and will no longer be effective. Broken pipes and leaks can result in dark stains and or yellow discoloration. Cementitious fireproof is not water resistant, and therefore, moisture can negatively affect its performance. If you experience a leak in your building, ensure that you get your fireproofing inspected for damage. If there is any visible damage, you will require a repair.
Impact Damage
Areas frequently exposed to mechanical damage, such as stairwells, high-traffic hallways, or industrial spaces, are more prone to chipping, cracking, or even detachment of the fireproofing material. This damage can compromise the fire-resistance rating, exposing structural elements to the risk of fire and heat damage. When inspecting these areas, look for visible signs like cracks, dents, or loose sections of fireproofing that may have been dislodged by heavy impacts or abrasions. If the fireproofing appears damaged, it is crucial to address these issues promptly to maintain effective fire protection and prevent further deterioration.
Why Timely Repair Matters
The longer you leave your damaged cementitious fireproofing, the greater the risk of fire damage. Oftentimes, commercial buildings have fire safety regulations and codes that must be followed in order to avoid liability. Suffering from damaged fireproofing may mean that you are held liable in the chance that there is a fire outbreak in your building. So, to avoid expensive damage and potential fines and liability, it is best to address fireproofing issues promptly.
Protect Your Property with Expert Fireproofing from EcoStar Insulation
Overall, cementitious fireproofing is an excellent investment, especially for those who own commercial buildings. Fireproofing efforts can help protect occupants while also preventing building collapse. However, it is important that you continually inspect your fireproofing, especially when your building has suffered from some type of leak or mechanical failure. This will ensure that you can address any compromised areas quickly and effectively. If you want to upgrade your building to be protected against fires, reach out to EcoStar Insulation for fireproofing services in Toronto. Our team will ensure that your building remains safe and well-protected in the future.
