Embracing the benefits
At the end of the day, architects, builders, contractors, and even end-users care about better value. NFPA-275 thermal barrier high-R insulation products cost slightly more initially, but the total costs, including the speed of installation, the overall quality, and end-user impact generate significant value across the complete construction hierarchy, resulting in significant cost savings. As with any new, emerging technology, the costs will decrease as market penetration increases.
To date, these new technologies are not optimized for all situations. However, they are already radically improving total costs and margins in several major areas of construction such as commercial, government, union, and prevailing wage projects. These benefits translate into other large fringe areas, which also need an increased focus in safety such as agriculture, commercial cold storage facilities, grow houses, outbuildings, military, and aviation hangers.
The elimination of steps in these larger, more complex initiatives translates to lower costs, better solutions, and most importantly, a lower risk for the loss of life and property—a true trifecta of value. Remember what is really at stake. It is not just a code issue, it is a life safety issue.
Notes
1 Refer to www.ul.com/services/thermal-barrier-testing-and-certification.
2 See the polyurethanes timeline at www.polyurethanes.org/what-is-it/.
3 To learn more, read litchfieldbuilders.com/the-importance-of-proper-insulation-in-connecticut-homes-and-how-to-achieve-it-through-renovation.
5 Refer to www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/02/decarbonizing-buildings-climate-change-infrastructure.
6 Learn more at codes.iccsafe.org/content/IBC2021P1/chapter-7-fire-and-smoke-protection-features, section 708.
Author
Richard Barone Jr. is co-founder and executive vice-president of operations for Firestable Insulation Co. As an entrepreneur and inventor, he has established several fire technology companies in his 20-plus years in fire protection.
