fire rate caulking in Dubai

SS Seal in Dubai is recognized as a provider of superior fire-certified caulking solutions, positioning them as key Fire sealant Suppliers in UAE. These solutions are designed to safeguard both premises and residents by limiting the transmission of fire, heat, and smoke, furnishing invaluable moments for occupants to vacate and minimizing property harm.

For those seeking fire rated caulking in Dubai, SS Seal offers a diverse selection of products tailored to various requirements.

What is the difference between a fire caulk and a regular caulk?

While regular caulk is used for common household tasks like blocking moisture and air, fire caulk is a specialised safety product designed to maintain the integrity of a building during an emergency.

Difference Between Fire Caulk and Regular Caulk

The fundamental difference lies in their purpose and chemical properties:

• Purpose: Regular caulk is a general-purpose material used to seal cracks, joints, or seams to prevent the passage of air, water, or other fluids. In contrast, fire caulk (or firestop sealant) is a passive fire protection measure used to seal openings—such as those created by pipes, ducts, and electrical cables—passing through walls or floors.
• Performance: Fire sealants have a specific fire rating that indicates exactly how long the material can stop the passage of fire. Some firestop products are intumescent, meaning they expand when exposed to heat to create a tighter seal against fire, toxic gases, and smoke.

Containment: While regular caulk maintains a building’s “envelope” against the weather, fire caulk is designed to contain a fire within a specific compartment, slowing its spread to allow more time for evacuation.

Common Fire Caulking Mistakes

Using fire stop products incorrectly can compromise building safety. Common errors include:

• Ignoring Local Codes: Failing to understand the specific fire codes or the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) can lead to using the wrong materials for a specific assembly.
• Incorrect Ratings: Selecting a product that does not provide the required fire rating for the specific wall or floor penetration.
• Misjudging Penetration Size: Not properly analysing the size and number of penetrations to determine if a simple sealant is adequate or if a more robust system is needed.

Lack of Professional Guidance: Attempting to install complex fire stop systems without a qualified technician when the requirements are not fully understood.

Alternatives to Fire Caulk

Depending on the size of the gap and the type of penetration, other fire stop products may be used:

• Firestop Mortar Seals: A mixture of cement and fire-retardant chemicals that swells to fill openings, providing a fire rating of up to four hours.
• Mechanical Systems: This includes fire collars, intumescent pipe wraps, and wrap strips which are specifically designed for pipe penetrations.
• Barriers and Foam: Foam barrier systems and fire barrier panels can contain fire and prevent smoke from spreading through larger voids.

Structural Blocking: In residential construction, 2×4 blocking or fire-rated sheetrock (gypsum board) is often used to slow flames travelling through wall cavities or floors.

Fire rated caulking in Dubai cost

 SS Seal works with clients to assess specific needs and suggest the best material and methods, offering a bespoke solution that considers factors such as facility classification and local government regulations.