Another radically new and often overlooked paradigm shift credited to monolithic NFPA-275 spray foam insulation (SPF) is the ability to increase the fire resistance of a building wall or ceiling system. Historically, this has been reserved for non-combustible building elements like brick, stucco and concrete.

With the achievement of method four, NFPA-275 SPF reduces the transmission of temperature through wall and ceiling assemblies. It passes the ASTM E119 temperature transmission tests, the method used to define wall ratings (i.e., when an inspector says a 1-hour wall is needed between a garage and a house).[1, sec 708] As the thickness of the monolithic fire barrier SPF increases, so does its ability to delay the transmission of heat and poisonous fumes, increasing the overall wall system’s hour rating.

This extends the thermal barrier SPF into the realm of fireproofing; something foam could never be used for in the past. That benefit has historically been reserved for gypsum, concrete, cementitious, brick and stone. This new technology opens many new and creative avenues previously unavailable.

Embracing the Benefits

At the end of the day, architects, builders, contractors and even end-users care about better value. NFPA-275 thermal barrier and high-R insulation products cost slightly more initially. However, the total costs, including speed of installation, overall quality and end-user impact generate significant value across the complete construction hierarchy, resulting in significant cost savings. As with any new emerging technology, the costs will decrease as market penetration increases.

SPF applicators can provide multiple subcontractors solutions. They can broaden their market appeal (also known as “add more work”) with all the normal SPF benefits of continuous insulation, air barrier, moisture barrier, mold defense, structural rigidity, as well as insulation value. All this while providing a life-safety feature in a one step, environmentally friendly, continuous spray foam fireproofing all-in-one.

Just think of the cost, time, and life-safety risk saved.

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