Sealing gaps and maintaining fire resistance
Fire compounds are a critical element in a robust fire protection system. These non-combustible materials are essential for maintaining the integrity of fire-resistant barriers, where services like pipes, cables, and ducts pass through walls and floors. Without the proper use of fire compounds, these penetrations can act as weak points, allowing fire and smoke to spread rapidly from one compartment of a building to another.
A specially formulated gypsum-based mortar, the compound is mixed with water and trowelled or poured around the gaps. It’s also important that plastic pipework is protected with either fire stop collars or intumescent pipe wraps.
Building codes and fire safety regulations require that fire-stopping measures, including fire compounds, are installed to protect penetrations through fire-rated walls and floors. Failure to comply with these regulations can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines. So, whether it’s a new build or an existing property, our inspection will check that the right fire compounds are in place and effective. We can also carry out any remedial work.
