Fire safety should be a top priority for any developer. From investing in the right fire safety equipment and systems to selecting the right fire-rated materials, these decisions can mean the difference between a safe and legally compliant building and one that is dangerous and susceptible to destructive fires.
One of the most critical decisions is choosing a fire-rated insulation that meets the needs of your project. However, understanding the fire rating classifications used to indicate how capable a specific type of insulation is at resisting the spread of fire is critical for making an informed decision.
This guide will explain the rating system, why it’s crucial for meeting local building codes, and the benefits of choosing a high-quality fire-resistant insulator. From there, we’ll even discuss a prefabricated wall panel solution that contains built-in fire-resistant insulation so you can choose a building material that will perform to the highest standards.
Understanding Fire Rating Systems for Insulation
When it comes to insulation, fire ratings are determined by standardized testing procedures designed to measure how well certain materials can resist fire exposure over a specified time. The key rating systems include:
ASTM E119
ASTM E119 is the standard test method for fire tests of building construction and materials. Basically, this test evaluates how long a wall, floor, or ceiling assembly can withstand fire exposure while maintaining its structural integrity.
NFPA 251
This is another type of comprehensive fire-resistance testing used across various materials and structural assemblies, including insulation materials. The National Fire Protection Agency created the testing procedures, so the standards it sets out are applied internationally.
Intertek/Warnock Hersey Certification
Recognized worldwide, this certification ensures fire-rated materials have met rigorous performance standards.
Fire Rating Classifications Explained
Outside of the systems used to assess fire resistance, materials are also given fire resistance classifications. These classifications are ranked according to a letter system, where A1 is a non-combustible material offering the highest level of fire resistance, and F is a highly combustible material that would contribute heavily to the spread of a fire. Like a letter grade in school, these grades progress from A1 to A2, B, C, D, E, and F, each classification increasing the risk of combustibility.
Time ratings, such as 1-hour, 2-hour, or 3-hour fire resistance, are also assigned to insulating materials. As you can probably guess, these ratings communicate how long the material can withstand a controlled fire without combusting.
The Benefits of Fire-Rated Insulation
Incorporating fire-rated insulation into your property’s design reduces the risk of an uncontrolled fire and slows its spread. This allows building occupants to escape and gives first responders more time to arrive on the scene.
While rules vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, specific fire-resistant materials can also be required by law or building code for certain types of buildings and industries.
In addition to their important role in preventing and slowing fires, most fire-resistant insulating materials also enhance thermal performance, which can help reduce energy bills. The insulation can also dampen noise, which can be really beneficial for industrial and commercial buildings where soundproofing is needed.
Choose ROCKWALL Fire-Rated Wall Panels
ROCKWALL Fire-Rated Wall Panels are one of the best high-performance options for developers looking for a high-quality, fire-rated wall panel solution. These prefabricated panels offer outstanding fire resistance and lasting thermal performance, making them ideal for commercial and industrial applications.
Key to their exceptional performance is that ROCKWALL panels feature a specialized Rockwool mineral fibre core called “Conrock,” which is permanently bonded to laminated sheet steel on both sides. This unique construction means they can be manufactured to offer a fire-resistance rating of 1, 2, or 3 hours, depending on the core thickness, which varies from 4” to 5” to 6”. The panels also have Intertek/Warnock Hersey certification, meaning they adhere to stringent fire safety standards.
Beyond their inherent fire protection, they offer excellent thermal insulation, helping you save money on heating and air conditioning costs. ROCKWALL Fire-Rated Wall Panels are ideal for developers looking for an all-in-one solution that is easier to work with than traditional fire-rated insulation, meets rigorous safety standards, and enhances thermal performance. Click below to learn more and request a sample: