Frequently Asked Questions

Commonly asked questions about firestopping

1. What is firestopping?
2. What is a firestop system?
3. Do I need a firestop system?
4. Do I need a firestop system if I already have a sprinkler system?
5. What types of firestop systems are there?
6. What is ASTM E814?
7. What do the ratings "T," "F," and "L" mean?
8. What do the terms "intumescence," "endothermic," and "elastomeric" mean?
9. What is the difference between fire separation and a firewall?
10. What are "approved methods?"
11. What are "engineered judgements?"
12. Aren't firestops just sealants?
13. Can I substitute the sealant or high temperature insulation in a listed system design?
14. How do I know if the sealant I'm using is good for all penetrations and joint configurations?

What is firestopping?

Firestopping is a term used to describe the use of building materials to prevent the spread of flames, heat, or gases through penetrations in fire-rated walls, ceilings, or floors for things such as pipes, ducts, wiring, etc.

What is a firestop system?

A firestop system is a combination of products, either premanufactured or assembled in the field that, once installed correctly to a U.L. rated design, prevent the passage of flames, heat, or gases between compartments.

Do I need a firestop system?

Any property owner or builder should be concerned about liability issues relating to uncontained fire, heat, and deadly gases -- namely, property damage, injury and death. If the integrity of fire-rated walls, ceilings, or floors is compromised by penetrations, then a firestop system is urged.

Do I need a firestop system if I already have a sprinkler system?

While sprinkler systems are extremely important, they suppress rather than contain the fire. In other words, sprinklers put out flames, but don't prevent them from spreading to that compartment in the first place. Furthermore, sprinklers are useless against smoke and deadly gases. And when you consider that nearly 75% of fire-related deaths are caused by smoke inhalation, the need for a firestop system is even more vital.

What types of firestop systems are there?

There are many types of firestop systems, consisting of a myriad of product types. The type of system needed is determined by the unique qualities of the location.

What is ASTM E814?

It is a recognized industry test that evaluates penetrations through a tested, fire- resistive wall, ceiling, or floor assembly. The test assigns ratings based on temperature rise ("T"), flame occurrence ("F"), and air leakage ('L"). The objective of the test is to return the floor, ceiling, or wall to the original fire rating.

What do the ratings "T," "F," and "L" mean?

A "T" Rating indicates the amount of time (usually hours) it takes the temperature on the non-fire side of a fire-rated assembly to exceed 325 degrees Fahrenheit above ambient temperature. An "F" Rating indicates the amount of time (hours) that a fire-resistive barrier can withstand fire before allowing the passage of flame through an opening. An "L" Rating denotes the amount of air leakage (in cubic feet per minute) through a penetration.

What do the terms "intumescence," "endothermic," and
"elastomeric" mean?

An "intumescent" product is one that, when exposed to heat, expands to fill a void in the penetration caused by the deformation or combustion of the penetrating item. An "endothermic" product blocks heat by chemical absorption and moisture release. "Elastomeric" products are flexible and prevent passage of heat and gases while permitting movement of the assembly.

What is the difference between fire separation and a firewall?

A fire separation is a construction assembly that acts as a barrier against the spread of fire. A fire wall is a type of separation that subdivides a building or separates adjoining buildings.

What are "approved methods?"

It's a general term that refers to firestop systems that have been tested by an independent laboratory (e.g., Underwriters Laboratory) and which meet ASTM E 814 performance criteria.

What are "engineered judgements?"

They are recommendations system/product manufacturers sometimes make to meet actual field conditions, based on testing that approximates the conditions encountered.

Aren't firestops just sealants?

No. While there are many products on the market that are sealants, there are, in fact, many different types of firestop products.

Can I substitute the sealant or high temperature insulation
in a listed system design?

No. Substituting products within a firestop system compromises the integrity of the system as a whole, and thereby jeopardizes life and property.

How do I know if the sealant I'm using is good for all
penetrations and joint configurations?

Refer to the system design listing by the independent testing and inspection agency (e.g., Underwriters Laboratory). If there is no listed system design, there is no recognized firestop.