In the building industry, fire prevention is a major concern in all forms of construction. This is the reason for fire blocks and fire stops. However, before you get out the fire block foam for sealing, it’s best to know the difference between the two. Yes, fire blocking and fire stopping are not the same things, and here is important information on the subject.
Fire Blocking
A fire block is designed to prevent the fire from spreading through hidden areas of buildings. For example, if you have something to divide the top portion of a wall from the bottom portion, it is much harder for the fire to spread up or down a wall because the air flow is limited. Fire feeds on oxygen, and the more you limit air circulation, the more effective your fire block is.
A fire block is often built in the form of a plate half way up a wall. In fact, this is the reason many kinds of building insulation products come in 48-inch pre-cut batts. This makes it easier to apply the insulation. Also, it’s best to use a good fire block foam product for maximum sealing capabilities. This provides a more efficient fire block.
Fire Stop
A fire stop serves the same general purpose as a fire block but is usually used for materials passing through walls and floors, like pipes. For example, unless a plumbing or vent pipe is completely sealed off from one area to the next, air can easily pass through and help a fire to intensify. Fire block foam is an excellent product for sealing these areas because it takes the shape of space and high-quality foam does not shrink over the years.
The Importance of Non-Combustible Materials for Fire Stops
Only materials which are non-combustible should be used for fire stops. For instance, stuffing building insulation or rock wool around a vent pipe hole or electrical outlet is never a good idea. This may seal off the air, but this material can catch fire, especially if covered with dust or debris after sitting behind a wall or ceiling for many years. This is the reason materials like fire block foam are best for these applications. This foam not only seals off airflow, but it also is fire resistant.
So What is the Difference?
If you are still confused about the differences between fire stops and fire blocks, it is not hard to tell the difference. Fire blocks are meant to suppress fires by limiting air flow. Fire stops are used when more fire protection is needed and require greater fire resistance in addition to air sealing capabilities. However, high-quality fire block foam products can be used in either application. They can help to seal off fire blocks and can be the actual fire stop material.
