Taking the necessary steps to protect your commercial building in the case of a fire is essential. Since there are different types of fire protection insulation, it’s important to know about the various kinds of products and learn which insulation is right for your building. Here’s some information on the types of industrial insulation and why you need to know about this product for the protection of your property and the people in it.
Understanding Insulation
Insulation is an important material to keep the heat inside your building and make your energy bills stay as low as possible. However, insulation can also be a concern should a fire occur in the building. Fortunately, there are industrial types of insulation that keep warmth in the building yet have a fire safety aspect to them. It’s important to look at the different types of insulation and see which options are better from a fire safety standpoint.
Types of Industrial Insulation
Here are some main types of industrial insulation and the features surrounding each type:
Fiberglass Insulation
Fiberglass insulation is constructed of fine glass fibers combined into rolls or used as a loose type of insulation. This type of insulation is often used because it’s affordable and easy to obtain. As for its fire safety aspects, the material is noncombustible. Although the foil and paper that may surround the fiberglass material is combustible, the installation is done with a barrier in place, so this type of insulation is still good from a fire safety standpoint.
Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam insulation is often made of polyurethane or polyisocyanurate. This type of insulation can be used in many areas, such as open wall areas or attic floors. Since spray foam insulation on its own isn’t overly fire resistant compared to the other types, it must have an approved thermal barrier used with it.
Mineral Wool Insulation
Mineral wool insulation is made from raw materials such as blast furnace slag, rock, and other items that resemble a wool texture. This type of insulation is available in rolls, batts, or loose-fill varieties. Mineral wool insulation is an excellent option when you want insulation that is fire-safe. The insulation on its own is made of all noncombustible materials, although the surrounding kraft paper and foil product must have a code-approved barrier.
Cellulose Insulation
Cellulose insulation is an eco-friendly option because it’s largely made of paper products. However, since the paper is highly combustible, the insulation has a fire-resistant component added to it, usually a nontoxic borate.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Insulation
When you consider what type of insulation to add to your commercial building, you should keep a few different factors in mind. Research the products to determine their fire resistance and combustibility levels, thermal performance, and durability. Doing so will help you choose the safest and most appropriate insulation to be installed in your building. The fire safety professional will help you pick an insulation type that is best for your individual needs.
It’s vital to do everything possible to keep your building fire safe, and choosing the right insulation goes into this consideration. Let Total Fire Protection help you with your insulation needs.
