Updated October 7, 2024
When we launched FireblockWall™ in 2021, customers were excited to finally have a reusable one-hour fire-rated temporary wall system. As the first and only solution of its kind, FireblockWall has set a new standard for temporary construction walls in the construction industry.
As the only safe and sustainable solution that can be used over and over again, the key advantages to using FireblockWall caught on quickly. Not only did this temporary construction wall install four times faster than drywall, saving teams time and money, but it meets four industry fire codes, including the critical certification for a one-hour fire barrier. Plus, it satisfies ICRA Class IV/V guidelines.
As you might expect, FireblockWall drew a lot of attention for its versatility and safety features. It also raised some commonly asked questions among customers. Below, Bruce Bickford, Vice President of Product Development, answers the top 5 questions we receive about FireblockWall and how it compares to other temporary construction walls and temporary wall systems on the market.
Top 5 Questions About FireblockWall
1. What are FireblockWall panels made of?
FireblockWall panels are built on a galvanized steel frame for extra durability, providing years of reuse. Our proprietary inner core provides a certified one-hour fire rating and superior noise-blocking with a Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating of 40. The powder-coated surface provides an attractive finish, which blends into existing environments. The surface is easy to clean and readily accepts vinyl graphics. FireblockWall panels come in two standard heights: 92” or 104”, which can accommodate 8’ to 10’ ceiling heights. When required, 6” or 12” extension panels can be added to larger panels to create additional height. When installed as specified, the panel design and gaskets create airtight seals that contain dangerous dust, debris and pathogens, which means they exceed ICRA Class IV guidelines.
2. What’s the main difference between FireblockWall and STARC’s other temporary walls?
The main difference is the method of construction. With RealWall™ and LiteBarrier™, the method of construction is frame and panel; for FireblockWall, it’s skin and core. This innovative design sets it apart from other temporary wall systems on the market. In addition, RealWall and LiteBarrier feature a foam core. FireblockWall’s core features a proprietary mix of materials.
3. Are STARC’s temporary construction walls fire-rated?
RealWall and LiteBarrier have an ASTM E84 Class A rating but are not fire-rated. FireblockWall is the first and only reusable temporary construction wall that is one-hour fire-rated.
4. Is FireblockWall compatible with STARC’s other temporary walls?
Once a FireblockWall is installed, it can be treated as any other permanent wall in the building, so it is 100% compatible with our RealWall and LiteBarrier systems. Simply install FireblockWall first, then use the RealWall or LiteBarrier interface modules to fit up against the FireblockWall surfaces.
5. Is there a one-hour fire-rated ceiling for the FireblockWall system?
Yes! FireblockCap™ was developed in response to feedback from early adopters of FireblockWall, who wanted a fast-and-easy ceiling option for creating a fully fire-rated enclosure. FireblockCap is a game-changer in the fire protection world of NFPA 101, enabling full compliance with building and fire codes for creating a one-hour rated assembly quickly and cost-effectively without disrupting traditional construction activities. Projects will be able to phase much more quickly with this new capability while meeting the recently updated ICRA 2.0 standards to the letter.
For a closer look at FireblockWall in action, check out this case study that details how S+B James Construction implemented our one-hour fire-rated temporary barriers on a particularly challenging job.
We hope this post addresses your questions about FireblockWall and its role in the world of temporary construction walls. If you have additional questions about how our temporary wall systems can support your project, drop us a line, and we’ll get you the information you need.