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What is FlameBlock?LP FlameBlock™ is a structural,
fire-rated panel used in both new construction and renovation projects.
The panel’s fire-resistive properties are provided by Pyrotite®
– a patented, non-hazardous, cementicious coating bonded to oriented
strand board. Pyrotite is non-combustible and when exposed to the heat
of fire will release molecularly bound water. The water cools the
panel’s surface and slows the spread of fire.
Is the FlameBlock product based on proven technology?
Yes. LP FlameBlock is manufactured with proven Pyrotite technology that
has been producing structural fire rated sheathing in the US since 1991.
Where
are FlameBlock panels used?
LP FlameBlock is most commonly used as:
- a structural roof sheathing in multifamily roof decks along fire
walls
- an interior or exterior fire-rated structural wall assembly an
ignition-resistant soffit or “overhang” panel
- a roof deck panel in both Class A and C low-slope commercial roof
deck assemblies
- a thermal barrier for foam core panels, including structurally
insulated panels (SIPs)
The product is specified by architects or engineers, and its
code-compliant applications are outlined in ICC ESR-1365.
What is the fire rating of FlameBlock?
LP FlameBlock is rated for flame spread and smoke development as well as
burn-through resistance. LP FlameBlock is a Class A (or I) flame and
smoke rated panel as determined by the 30-min “extended” ASTM E-84 Flame
Spread test. LP FlameBlock meets Class A commercial low slope roof deck
assembly requirements under single-ply membranes, exceeds the 15-min.
thermal barrier requirement for foam core plastics, and is listed in a
variety of 1 and 2-hr load bearing wall assemblies.
Does the
coating side face in or out?
The orientation of the coated face of the panel depends on the
application, please review the “Application Instructions” document that
pertains to your particular use. In general, the coated side is oriented
to face the side of the roof deck or wall where protection from fire is
required.
How do I treat the panel edges?
LP FlameBlock was tested with the edges untreated. Since building code
requires field applications to mimic the way a system was fire tested in
a laboratory, no further treatment of the panel edges is required for
those applications tested with untreated edges. Be sure to check the
relevant Application Instructions to be sure installation in the field
is done correctly.
What about roofing nails protruding the
surface of the coating?
Protruding roofing nails were shown in fire tests NOT to reduce the fire
rating of the panel.
What is the panel strength?
The Pyrotite coating adds structural strength to the panel. The span
and strength ratings have been determined by the independent strength
testing laboratory Progressive Engineering Inc. (PEI). The minimum
strength of each panel is determined by the initial rating of the
underlying untreated panel (e.g. 15/32 Category OSB at 32/16). Each
panel is individually labeled with span rating references. Span and load
tables are available here.
Is FlameBlock available in
Structural Rated Panels?
Yes, LP FlameBlock is available in Struc-1 rated panels of varying
performance categories and lengths.
Who tests and certifies
FlameBlock?
LP FlameBlock has an International Code Council (ICC) Evaluation
Services (ES) report, ESR-1365, which lists the code compliant
applications. In addition, LP FlameBlock is listed and subject to
quarterly quality control inspections with two independent
laboratories: Intertek (Omega Point Laboratories) and Underwriters
Laboratories (UL). LP FlameBlock is also included as an approved product
on the California State Fire Marshall’s Wildland Urban Interface List
(WUI) for exterior wall sheathing, under eave applications, and ignition
resistant building materials.
What are the key FlameBlock
advantages?
LP FlameBlock’s key advantage is that the panel combines fire resistance
and structural strength in a single panel. Meaning that in the right
applications, LP FlameBlock can reduce the time and cost associated with
installing double-layers of gypsum, or a combination of gypsum and
structural sheathing.
Single panel applications can provide
considerable savings in terms of dimensional space. Architects and
designers report that using a single panel saves reconfiguring window
and door frames to accommodate thicker walls or roofs.
What
are the dimensions of FlameBlock panels?
LP FlameBlock panels can be made in all standard OSB performance
categories in 4’ x 8’, 4’x9’ and 4’x10’ lengths. LP OSB Sheathing panels
are sized to 3’ 11-7/8” x 7’ 11-7/8” dimensions (reduced 1/8” from 4’ x
8’ to allow for proper spacing during installation). Panels are
available in performance categories ranging from 3/8 to 1-1/8. Extended
length and oversized panels are subject to availability.
What
are performance categories?
Performance category replaces
the fractional nominal thickness used in U.S. Voluntary Product
Standard PS2. The Performance Category is consistent with the panel
thickness used in the U.S. model building codes.
How much do FlameBlock panels weigh?
The Pyrotite coating itself adds approximately .7 (seven-tenths) of a
pound per square foot to a board. Thus, a 4’ x 8’, 15/32 Category LP
FlameBlock panel weighs approximately 66 pounds. As a comparison, the
combined weight of a layer of a 4’ x 8’ 5/8” gypsum board plus a 4’ x 8’
15/32 sheathing panel can easily be 120 pounds.
How do you
install FlameBlock panels?
Installation is similar to standard sheathing. LP FlameBlock can be cut
and installed with standard carpentry tools. LP FlameBlock has been
shown in relevant testing not to corrode nails, so standard nails,
screws, and fastening patterns may be used. Carbide tipped saw blades
are recommended and they may have to be sharpened 20% more often than if
cutting untreated boards only.
Is the dust from cutting
FlameBlock dangerous?
The dust from cutting LP FlameBlock has been shown to be no more
hazardous than cutting untreated boards.
How do you treat
the edges of FlameBlock panels?
LP FlameBlock has passed required fire tests with untreated edges, so
you do not need to apply special edge treatment or use special
techniques to treat panel edges. LP FlameBlock may be finished in the
same way other sheathing is finished.
Can I cover FlameBlock
with any type of siding?
Local code officials have jurisdiction over what types of
sidings and coverings can be attached to fire-rated walls and roofs. You
will want to discuss approved siding options with your local code
official.
Does FlameBlock reduce sound transmission?
Testing is currently underway to provide sound transmission coefficients
for wall assemblies utilizing LP FlameBlock.
Where can I
buy FlameBlock?
LP FlameBlock will be distributed by most building material suppliers
that carry other LP branded products. Please contact your LP
representative to locate a dealer near you.
What does FlameBlock
cost?
LP FlameBlock panel costs vary based on panel size, dimension, geography
and volume. LP FlameBlock is priced competitively to other
alternatives. In addition, using LP FlameBlock will save the builder
time and money overall, as well as provide the best performing and
safest fire-resistant sheathing technology available. For pricing on any
specific order of LP FlameBlock, please contact your local LP
representative or email us.
Has FlameBlock or Pyrotite®
technology ever experienced any issues associated with their use?
The use of Pyrotite technology as a structural wood based panel has been
remarkably trouble-free. When used as a roof deck material, however, it
is important that the attic space below the panel be ventilated at
least to building code standards. The build-up of humidity in a poorly
ventilated attic space, coupled with temperature fluctuations in
northern environments, may cause condensation to form on the surface of
LP FlameBlock.
Span Tables |
ESR-1365 |
Evaluation Report |
WUI Website |
Contact Us