Hollow Core Concrete Firestopping- Part 2
In our last post we discussed the firestop requirements for penetrations through hollow core concrete floors, we gave you a few examples of UL listed details that don’t require you to follow the requirements noted in the XHEZ.
In the last blog, I said that I hoped you were getting this information in time.
Today, I want to explain why I made that comment. If you stick with us in the next post I will give you some ideas that might help your next project run more smoothly.
First, let me explain the problem you might face:
If your subs have run services half way up your building before they even think about what to do for the firestop installations, how are they going to get back in to the opening and fill those cells with any of the required material.
Here is a refresher of what is allowed:
Any cores breached by the opening need to be filled with min 4” depth of
- Min 4pcf mineral wool
- Ceramic fiber blanket
- Concrete
- Grout
So, let’s fix this before it becomes a problem. The first step is DO NOT assume that everyone knows how to do this the right way. Second step is to have a discussion, possibly at a pre-bid meeting, but certainly at a pre-construction meeting.
In this meeting, you need to make your team aware of the structural concerns related to a hollow core concrete floor, but you can’t forget to talk to them about firestop and here is what we suggest for the meeting.
- Print out the UL XHEZ document (give everyone a copy)
- Read the section on hollow core concrete in the meeting
- Explain what this means to all of your trades by giving specific examples based on the firestop submittals
- Put it in your meeting minutes in detail
- Completely review the firestop submittals against the penetrations you will have on the project (see our video series for more on how to do this)
- Conduct field walks before the trades run their penetrations to ensure the cells are filled if needed
- Then hold everyone accountable
If all of this sounds like a lot, I have good news. The easiest way to be sure you have it right, is to hire us to conduct a pre-construction meeting with your team. We will ensure your team understands the requirements before starting and will conduct field walks as the project progresses to support any issues that arise.
If you want to do it right, we are a great addition to the team. Past clients tell us they are stronger on future projects because of what they learned working with us.
We are like a concentrated dose of support. Concentrated- stronger and more impactful because we focus on what we know and we share that with your team. Clients who have worked with us in the past tell us the look at firestop differently and they believe the life safety of their future projects will always be better because of what they learned when we worked together. Give it a try and see for yourself!
Our next post will cover additional considerations for your hollow core project, focusing on block outs. We’ll also provide solutions if you’re reading this too late.
Share this information with anyone who might benefit. If you need support for your project, just let us know.!
Until then, thanks for taking the time to read through this today.