Spray foam insulation (SPF) has historically met code by being applied behind gypsum or covered with approved, add-on thermal barriers – items like cellulosic and cementitious materials. SPF could also comply with code through “exception” methods using the lower-level ignition barrier approval (2603.4.1) or special approval testing (2603.9).

Any “post-applied” thermal barrier application comes with a significant, life safety risk. Often, the company providing the thermal/fire barrier is not the same company applying the insulation. Even more often, a significant span of time passes while fire risk and other sub-contractors are present before post-applied thermal barriers.

This presents the issue of who owns the liability during that in-between, safety risk window period. Also pertinent is who ensures the proper application methods of the post-added thermal barrier and which code requirements are being met. This risk affects everyone in the construction phase from the architect to the contractor, to the spray foam applicator, to the insurance company to the owner/end-user. The risk, added materials, labor, governance and complexity are eliminated with Firestable™ NFPA-275 FS 2.0 thermal barrier SPF.

How does this benefit the owner, general contractor,  architect, insurers and/or the spray application company? Spray foams are reacted in the field through a two-component chemical reaction. The NFPA-275 fire barrier rating creates an effective fire barrier as soon as the chemical reaction finishes. Fire safety is “built-in” as soon as the foam reaction is complete. This is what’s known as a “zero risk window” product. It is very different from traditional methods  where flammable plastic insulation materials, both panels and continuous, require an additional thermal barrier post installation.

By inventing a zero-risk window, continuous spray foam and incorporating innovative, Firestable FS 2.0, the SPF has a thermal barrier throughout the complete volume of the foam. Topcoats only protect one face of flammable insulation. Also, post-applied thermal barriers can only be used in  “conditioned spaces;”  dry, heated environments lest they are prone to field failures. Additionally, as soon as a post-applied fire barrier surface is breached in any way, shape or form, the fire barrier characteristic of the flammable substrate is lost.

Applicators can attain all the benefits of continuous insulation, air barrier, moisture barrier, mold defense, structural rigidity and high insulation value in their structures AND achieve immediate life safety in one step. Just think of the cost, time and life-safety risk saved…

Firestable™ - saving money, saving time, saving lives.

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