Spray fireproofing or spray-on fireproofing is a type of passive fire protection system that decreases the temperature increase in steel or concrete of a building during a fire accident. Technically it is known as spray applied fireproofing material (SFRM).
Taking professional fireproofing services in Toronto can help save many people living in a building at the time of a fire hazard.
Composition of Spray Fireproofing
Spray foam fireproofing material is composed of gypsum or cement with other materials, including quartz, mineral wool, perlite, etc. Gypsum or cement holds a greater share in composition because it lets spray fireproofing hardens on drying. The other materials are added along with the cement or gypsum to lighten the solution. Chemical hardeners are also used sometimes in the composition to speed up the hardening process.
Uses of Spray Fireproofing
The primary aim of the spray-applied fireproofing is to protect the rigid elements of a building from the heating effects during a fire accident. These rigid elements include columns, metal decking, beams, and some steel joists.
The spray fireproofing material is also used to provide thermal insulation and acoustic treatment to larger areas of a building where metal decking and structural members are exposed.
Generally, spray fireproofing cannot be used on the surfaces in a building exposed to high humidity levels. This is because of the spray fireproofing’s porous nature, which makes it absorb the moisture content. This creates favorable conditions for the growth of mold and deteriorates the fireproofing’s physical and chemical properties. However, spray fireproofing manufacturers and contractors, Mississauga are working to make it resistant to moisture.
Preparation of Spray Fireproofing
Spray fireproofing should be prepared carefully in a safer working environment. 40 F or 4 C is the minimum required ambient temperature before, during, and after the applied spray fireproofing material application or as suggested by the manufacturer.
Mississauga’s spray fireproofing contractors need to check the substrate before applying the fireproofing material to the surfaces. Moreover, the following preparatory steps must be made before applying the spray fireproofing:
- Surfaces should be cleaned of grease, oil, dirt, and dust.
- Steel decks should be cleared of lubricants.
- Concrete placement should be completed in order to avoid future deflection. If this step is not taken, it may lead to the delamination of spray-applied fireproofing material in the future.
Maintenance of Spray Applied Fireproofing Material
Spray fireproofing generally requires no maintenance. However, you can inspect periodically to ensure that the spray fireproofing has not been damaged. If you find the material loosened or cracked, you should contact spray fireproofing services providers in Toronto to replace it immediately.