In 2012 alone, there were nearly 93,000 non-residential building fires in the United States. These fires resulted in 65 deaths, 1,450 injuries, and $2.5 billion in property damage. Just imagine that—$2.5 billion up in smoke! Fires don't only threaten lives and cause financial loss, but they also wreak havoc on a building's structural integrity. That’s why fire and moisture barriers are more than just add-ons—they're life-saving, building-preserving essentials.
A headline out of San Antonio shows the harsh reality: Five die in a senior living high-rise fire. The three-alarm blaze started on the third floor of an 11-story building, and it took 150 firefighters from six departments to control it.
While ten more residents were injured, evacuating residents in the dead of December posed another challenge. The risks of evacuation, especially in harsh weather, underscore the need for a solid defense strategy inside the building itself. And one of the most critical lines of defense? Fire and moisture barriers installed in expansion joints.
Compartmentalization: A Critical Strategy for Any Building
This San Antonio tragedy highlights why compartmentalization in building design is non-negotiable. You need to be able to contain fire and smoke within sections, or compartments, to slow their spread and give occupants time to evacuate safely—or better yet, allow them to “defend in place.”
Mark Warrick, a leading architect specializing in senior living, points out that especially in facilities like nursing homes and high-acuity care, it's far safer to have smoke and fire walls that allow residents to be moved from one compartment to another instead of evacuating them outside during inclement weather. This "defend in place" approach is essential not only for healthcare and senior living spaces but for any building where safety is a priority—think schools, airports, hospitals, and commercial buildings. Expansion joint fire barriers play a pivotal role in this defensive architecture.
Fire and Smoke Barriers: The Unsung Heroes of Building Safety
At Prospec Specialties, we don’t just offer generic fire barriers; we provide tailored solutions designed to perform when it matters most. Our expansion joint fire barriers are meticulously engineered to meet rigorous safety standards. Here’s a quick rundown of what we offer:
Fire-Rated Foam - ZAF Series: This system covers both sides of the joint opening and meets 2 to 3-hour fire ratings in compliance with UL2079 hose stream tests and ASTM standards.
Fire-Rated Foam - ZAF Series Mineral Wool and Sealant - ZBS Series Fire Stopping System: Made from rockwool and fire sealant, it accommodates thermal movement while maintaining a 2-hour fire rating.
Mineral Wool and Sealant - ZBS Series Fire Stopping System Fire Blankets - ZFS Series: Encapsulated or non-encapsulated ceramic cloth, intumescent layering, graphite sheet goods or insulating blankets with galvanized flanges mechanically anchored to the substrate.
Fire Blankets - ZFS Series
When correctly installed, these barriers ensure that fire, smoke, and moisture don't compromise a building’s structural integrity or the health and safety of its occupants.
The Importance of Proper Installation
Of course, it’s not enough to simply have the right fire barrier systems in place—they must be installed correctly to function as intended. In the rush to meet deadlines and budget constraints, installations can sometimes be overlooked, leading to disastrous consequences. We can’t stress enough how critical it is to follow installation protocols to the letter.
Here are eight keys to ensuring your fire barriers are installed correctly:
Plan Ahead: Always design for fire protection early in the project lifecycle.
Select the Right Barrier: Choose the system that fits the expansion joint’s movement and size requirements.
Test Regularly: Ensure your fire and moisture barriers are regularly inspected and tested, especially after installation.
Seal All Gaps: Ensure there are no gaps where fire or smoke can leak through. Use appropriate sealants when necessary.
Comply with Codes: Always check that the fire barrier systems comply with local building codes and industry standards.
Coordinate with HVAC Systems: Proper airflow and ventilation can help prevent fire spread. Coordinate barrier installations with HVAC systems.
Train Installers: Make sure the installation crew is trained specifically on fire and moisture barrier systems.
Use Only Certified Materials: This isn’t the place to cut costs. Use UL-listed and LEED-compliant materials to ensure the highest standards are met.
What About Moisture Barriers?
While fire protection often gets the spotlight, moisture barriers are just as crucial, especially in environments exposed to harsh weather. Our Expansion Joint Moisture Barriers are flexible polyethylene membranes designed to prevent water ingress, which can lead to mold, corrosion, and other structural issues. Optional drainage assemblies are also available to divert water away from critical areas.
Where and When Are Fire and Moisture Barriers Needed?
Fire and moisture barriers should be installed in both interior and exterior expansion joint systems. They are especially crucial in areas that need to contain fire or smoke, such as hospitals, airports, high-rises, and educational facilities. These barriers help prevent fire and smoke from spreading to adjacent areas while accommodating the natural movement of the building.
So, when should you use a fire barrier? The answer is simple: Always. Any part of a building that contains an expansion joint should have a fire barrier in place, regardless of whether it’s inside or outside.A Final Thought
Fire and moisture barriers are the unsung heroes of modern building safety. They help protect lives, preserve property, and maintain the structural integrity of your projects. In an increasingly uncertain world, where extreme weather and fire risks are rising, these barriers aren’t optional—they’re essential.
To learn more about fire and moisture barriers and get a quote, email us at info@prospecspecialties.com
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