Fire-resistant sheathing is most commonly used in 1-hour and 2-hour fire-resistance-rated assemblies for commercial and residential construction. The use of fire-resistant sheathing in wall assemblies helps protect the integrity of the structure and contain and isolate a fire.
First and foremost, Fire-Rated Sheathing may add to the overall safety of a building. Providing flame spread and burn-through resistance helps slow the fire, allowing first responders a chance to respond and minimize damage.
In wildland-urban interface (WUI) areas, meeting Ignition Resistant Construction requirements is extremely important. Fire-Rated Sheathing may help your building meet code without sacrificing ease of installation and design.
Fire-Rated Sheathing also offers assurance to contractors and owners alike that their structures include the best precautions possible, should a fire occur.
Details vary by assembly, including thickness of the fire-resistant-rated wall, which generally increase in thickness as the exposure time increases. To provide increased fire protection, fire-resistant sheathing and other products are tested and evaluated by third parties. Here is the process: