When it comes to fire safety, firestopping is a critical part of any building’s safety system. Firestopping is the process of installing materials to seal off penetrations in walls, floors, and ceilings to stop the spread of fire, smoke, and hot gasses from travelling through unprotected openings.
Because it is such a crucial safety measure, it’s important to know when to redo firestopping in your building. Here are some of the signs that indicate it may be time to redo your firestopping:
Age of materials
Firestopping materials have a limited lifespan and can degrade over time. According to international firestopping standards, buildings should be inspected annually to make sure they are still in good condition and able to provide the necessary level of fire protection. If the materials are more than five years old, they should be replaced due to the potential for degradation of the materials used over time.
Physical damage
The materials used in firestopping are designed to be fire-resistant and smoke-tight. When the materials are damaged, these characteristics are no longer present, meaning that a fire could spread more quickly, increasing the risk of damage and injury. Even if your firestopping materials are relatively new, they may need to be replaced if they have been damaged due to construction, renovations, or a fire. If the firestopping materials are cracked, broken, or otherwise compromised, they need to be replaced.
In addition to the safety benefits, redoing firestopping if the materials have been damaged can also help to reduce future costs. Without proper firestopping, the risk of a fire is increased, which could lead to significant damage.
Changes in building layout
If there have been any changes in the layout of your building, such as the addition of walls or the relocation of doors and windows, your existing firestopping may need to be updated accordingly. It’s important to make sure the firestopping is still in the right location and that it offers adequate protection for the new layout.
Changes in building use
If the use of your building has changed, such as if you have converted it from an office building to a residential building, your existing firestopping may need to be updated. Different types of buildings require different levels of fire protection, so it’s important to make sure your firestopping is appropriate and up-to-code for the new use of the building.
When changes in the building or damages to the materials occur, the firestopping system can no longer provide the necessary protection, increasing the risk of damages and injury. Because firestopping is an important part of any building’s fire safety system, it’s important to be aware of when it needs to be redone to ensure your building is up to code and safe from the spread of fire and smoke. If you suspect that your firestopping may need to be replaced, contact our knowledgeable team today for a thorough assessment of the situation!
