Set It and Forget It: The Easiest Way to Install UL Listed Firestop Systems
Commercial facilities receive many visitors every day, whether they are employees, contractors, or members of the general public. As a construction professional, you want to make sure your projects are safe in all types of situations, especially emergencies. Many building codes will require you to install certain systems to help keep occupants safe during adverse events.
Firestops are some of the top lines of defense against fires in commercial buildings and many municipalities require their installation. However, firestopping can be lengthy and complex – but the HoldRite HydroFlame Pro Series can streamline the process in a safe, efficient manner.
How Firestops Work
Firestopping is a process whereby certain materials, some of them specifically manufactured, are used to resist (or stop) the spread of fire and its byproducts through openings made to accommodate penetrations in fire-rated wall, floors and floor/ceiling assemblies. Firestopping comprises three elements; a fire-rated assembly (a floor or wall), firestop material (typically fire caulking or intumescent material) and a penetrating item such as a plumbing pipe or electrical cables/conduits.
The purpose of firestopping is to reduce the spread of fire and smoke through compartmentation. Firestopping fills openings, holes, and voids (annular space) in fire-rated walls and floors and is intended to restore the hourly rating of fire-rated assemblies breached by penetrants.
The Importance of Firestop Systems
Many municipal, state, federal, and international building codes mandate the installation of firestops in their commercial buildings. Firestops provide numerous benefits for emergency services and occupants alike, including:
- Compartmentation of smoke and flame
- Additional time for emergency services to respond to a fire
- Prevention of smoke and flame spreading through a structure
- Protection of lives, safety, and overall property
The most important feature of firestops is compartmentation. This feature is crucial due to how it effectively reduces the rate that fire spreads once it begins. Firestop compartmentation is especially effective in buildings with occupants who have limited mobility, such as hospitals, nursing homes, or detention centers.
Common Firestop Problems
Firestopping can pose a number of issues for contractors, making the process difficult and complicated and reducing the firestop’s overall effectiveness.
- Firestop systems require third-party inspections and it can be costly if a reinstall is necessary
- Lack of watertight floor penetrations can cause damage to a finished building
- Poorly installed firestops that do not follow UL Listings are ineffective and can fail
Benefits of HoldRite HydroFlame Pro Series
Firestopping can be a complex and delicate process. However, it is necessary that contractors install firestops correctly to keep building occupants safe. How can you ensure you install a UL Listed firestop system?
HoldRite’s HydroFlame Pro Series is the solution. HydroFlame Pro Series Systems are UL -Listed and are effective against the spread of water, smoke, gases, and fire. The telescoping design provides an all-in-one, easy-to-install firestop.
The HydroFlame Pro Series’ telescoping design eliminates the need for contractors to spend time cutting sleeves in the field. The HydroFlame Pro’s safety cap allows for non-destructive removal and satisfies OSHA hole cover requirements.
Are you ready to invest in stress-free installation for your project’s firestops? Contact HoldRite today to find a HydroFlame Pro Series provider near you.