When FireblockWall™ launched in 2021, it offered a groundbreaking reusable, one-hour fire-rated temporary wall system. As the first of its kind, it redefined temporary construction walls for the industry.
Its benefits were clear from the start. FireblockWall installs four times faster than drywall, saving time and money. It meets four key fire codes, including the one-hour fire barrier certification, and adheres to ICRA Class IV/V guidelines. Customers quickly recognized its safe, sustainable, and reusable design.
With its versatility and safety features, FireblockWall attracted attention and raised many questions. Below, Bruce Bickford, Vice President of Product Development, answers the top five questions we hear about FireblockWall and its comparison to other temporary wall systems.
Top 5 Questions About FireblockWall
1. What are FireblockWall panels made of?
FireblockWall panels feature a durable galvanized steel frame for years of reuse. Their proprietary inner core ensures a certified one-hour fire rating and an STC rating of 40 for superior noise-blocking. The powder-coated surface offers an attractive, easy-to-clean finish that accommodates vinyl graphics.
Panels come in two heights: 92” or 104”, fitting 8’ to 10’ ceilings. Extensions of 6” or 12” can add height. Installed panels form airtight seals that block dust, debris, and pathogens, exceeding ICRA Class IV guidelines.
2. How is FireblockWall different from STARC’s other walls?
The key difference lies in construction. FireblockWall uses a skin-and-core design, while RealWall™ and LiteBarrier™ rely on frame-and-panel construction. FireblockWall’s core contains a unique material mix, unlike the foam cores in other systems. This innovative design makes FireblockWall stand out among temporary wall systems.
3. Are STARC’s temporary construction walls fire-rated?
RealWall and LiteBarrier are ASTM E84 Class A rated but not fire-rated. FireblockWall, however, is the first reusable wall with a certified one-hour fire rating.
4. Is FireblockWall compatible with other STARC walls?
Yes, FireblockWall integrates seamlessly with RealWall and LiteBarrier. After installing FireblockWall, interface modules connect it to other systems, making it fully compatible.
5. Does FireblockWall offer a one-hour fire-rated ceiling?
Absolutely. FireblockCap™, developed in response to customer feedback, provides a fast, easy ceiling solution for a complete fire-rated enclosure. This innovation simplifies compliance with NFPA 101 and ICRA 2.0 standards while enabling quicker project phases.
For an in-depth look, check out our case study on S+B James Construction, which highlights how FireblockWall tackled a challenging project with one-hour fire-rated temporary barriers.
We hope these answers clarify FireblockWall’s benefits in the world of temporary construction walls. If you have more questions about how our temporary wall systems can enhance your project, reach out—we’re here to help.