Firestopping
Top-of-the-Line Firestopping Systems for Your Building
Offering Superior Firestop Products & Systems Since 1982
Alpha Firestop Systems specializes in installing firestopping systems, including firestop caulking and sealants, fire-rated joint assemblies, intumescent fireproofing, perimeter fire containment and smoke- and fire-rated through penetrations.
Our extensive knowledge and training allow us to provide our clients with a full-service solution to all their firestopping needs, as we’re certified by several leading manufacturers and third-party organizations.
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Fire containment is a primary concern for building designers and owners as the control of fire, smoke and poisonous gases is a critical component of the overall life safety plan of the structure.
Typically, a combination of active (fire sprinklers and fire alarms) and passive (firestopping and spray fireproofing) fire protection systems are necessary to meet the stringent building code requirements that govern the design, construction and occupancy of buildings.
How Firestopping Works
Firestopping is a passive fire protection approach that relies on the compartmentalization of various building components, including fire-rated walls, joints and floors. The goal is to prevent the spread of fire within a building by properly sealing every opening, penetration and joint that is part of the fire-rated assembly to maintain or achieve the designated fire-resistive rating.
A common misunderstanding of firestops is that certain materials have specific fire ratings. On the contrary, firestop materials are only one component of the overall firestop system tested by UL or other third-party testing agencies. The firestop assembly includes all of the building components required to achieve or maintain the specified fire-resistive rating.
Superior Firestopping Systems for Your Project
Types of Firestopping Systems & Products We Offer
Alpha Firestop System’s firestopping systems include:
- Fire caulking and sealants: Made of high-temperature acrylic or silicone, these sealants are used around penetrations such as pipes, around doors or at joints between adjoining surfaces to prevent smoke and gases from spreading.
- Insulation and fire blankets: Made of mineral wool, fiberglass or high-temperature foam, insulation, fire blankets and foam pillows help prevent the spread of heat and flames through walls, ceilings or floors.
- Mortars: Made of gypsum or cementitious materials, mortars are used to seal wall assemblies to concrete floors, seal between adjoining concrete surfaces, seal expansion joints in concrete slabs and more.
- Intumescent coatings: These coatings expand with heat to create an insulating barrier on things like exposed columns and beams, protecting the surface beneath from heat and flames.
- Collars: These are installed on flues, pipes, ducts and similar assemblies to contain flames and prevent them from spreading to another room.
As a certified firestop contractor, Alpha Insulation & Waterproofing can provide pre-construction consultation and design support to ensure the proper firestop systems are chosen and incorporated into the project’s life safety plans.
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Why We’re the Right Choice for Your Firestop Needs
Alpha Firestop Systems’s firestop contractors are experienced and trained to provide a single-source approach to firestopping for your next project. Hiring a firestop specialty contractor will reduce your overall liability exposure, reduce costs and streamline the documentation process.
Alpha Insulation & Waterproofing can provide submittals, certifications, identification tags and installation logs, which can be collated and turned over to the owner in a single package upon substantial completion of the project, minimizing the confusion that can occur when multiple trades are responsible for their own firestopping installations.
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Certified Firestopping Contractors
We have specialized training and certification from several leading manufacturers of firestop materials, including Hilti and Specified Technologies Inc. (STI). Six of our locations have been evaluated by Underwriters Laboratories Inc. and found to comply with the UL Qualified Firestop Contractor Program.
Alpha Firestop Systems is also an FM 4991-approved firestop contractor, as deemed by the FCIA.
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Firestopping FAQs
What’s the goal of firestopping?
Firestopping is designed to slow the spread of fire so a building can be safely evacuated. It seals off each room from the next, preventing flames, smoke and toxic gases from spreading to adjacent rooms. Even a penetration as small as a pencil can allow an adjacent room to fill with smoke in minutes, so it’s important to seal all penetrations. Contact us today to learn more about the importance of firestopping.
Is firestopping needed if a fire sprinkler system is installed?
Yes, firestopping acts as passive protection that prevents the spread of fire, smoke and gases from room to room whether or not the fire sprinklers activate. Fire sprinklers only work to put out the flames — and if the system malfunctions, it may fail at that — but smoke and gases are not contained.
A comprehensive fire protection system combines passive measures like firestopping and fireproofing with active measures like fire sprinklers. At Alpha Insulation & Waterproofing, we offer a wide range of firestopping and fireproofing solutions for your commercial building.
Where is firestopping required?
In a commercial building, firestopping is required at all through penetrations, membrane penetrations and any joints or perimeter barriers. Through penetrations are things like pipes and cables that go through the entire wall from the wall surface or membrane on one side, through the hollow space between and to the wall surface on the other side.
Membrane penetrations occur when a pipe or cable in a wall exits through one membrane or wall surface. Joints and perimeter barriers occur at the top of walls, where the wall meets the slab, where a wall joins perpendicularly to another and similar interfaces.
Our team can evaluate your busing and determine where firestopping is needed according to code.
Can all penetrations be sealed with firestopping caulk?
No, caulk can successfully seal only smaller penetrations. Depending on the size of the opening, the material and its location, there are a variety of products available to properly seal a variety of penetrations, including firestopping caulk, firestopping putties, intumescent collars and intumescent pillows.
All products must be UL-approved. At Alpha Insulation & Waterproofing, we can recommend the best firestopping products for each location in your building.
What’s the difference between firestopping and fireproofing?
Firestopping is designed to seal off one room from the next so flames, smoke and poisonous gases can’t travel from room to room. Because toxic gases are the most common cause of death during a fire, stopping their spread is the primary goal of firestopping systems and materials.
Fireproofing is a coating that’s applied to structural elements like beams and columns to help them retain their strength for a longer amount of time during a fire. This gives the building’s occupants more time to evacuate safely. We offer both firestopping and fireproofing services to our commercial clients throughout the country.
Does my local code require firestopping?
In commercial buildings, firestopping is required by national code and National Fire Protection Association standards for all penetrations in fire-rated assemblies like walls, floors and elevator shafts. Any penetrations through the wall membrane must be sealed to prevent the spread of flames, smoke and toxic gases.
National codes apply to all areas, but local codes are often more stringent than national codes. To learn more about the codes for your specific area, talk to the experts at your local Alpha Insulation & Waterproofing office.
Is a sprinkler system enough to keep a fire from spreading?
A sprinkler system can be great for preventing or slowing the spread of a fire, but for complete protection, it should be part of a larger fire protection regimen. This should include systems for detection, suppression and containment, which together are known as the “fire protection triad.”
The sprinklers act as the suppression system while fire alarms detect the fire and firestopping helps contain the flames, smoke and gases. We can help you improve your fire protection strategy with reliable firestopping and fireproofing solutions.
Insulation
Professional Insulation Services for Commercial, Industrial, and High-Rise Buildings
Top-Rated Insulation Services Nationwide
Alpha Firestop Systemsand their trained professionals have been installing insulation in commercial, industrial and high-rise condominium projects since they began in 1982. We have successfully secured several high-profile projects, including the new Dallas Cowboys stadium.
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Why We Need Insulation for Commercial Buildings
It doesn’t matter where a commercial building is located. Extreme heat, cold and winds impact a property’s energy efficiency. Adding the best and the right amount of insulation during construction is ideal. But it’s never too late to reduce energy loss (and energy bills) by retrofitting insulation.
IBP (Installed Building Products) is the second-largest insulation provider in the United States. As a member of the IBP Family of Companies, Alpha Insulation & Waterproofing can get the supplies and materials we need for your project faster. Our group purchasing power gives us lower prices and we share those savings with our business partners.
Our quality of materials and installation services will support your brand. And while other contractors are waiting on materials to arrive, we have what you need here and now.
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Benefits of Properly Insulated Buildings
In addition to saving energy and/or meeting energy-efficiency standards set by owners and investors, the advantages of insulation for commercial properties are:
- Acoustics: Noise impacts workplace productivity. As we trend toward open workspace concepts in building design, insulation’s acoustic properties will play a more critical role.
- Occupant thermal comfort: Temperature variations, compromised indoor air quality (IAQ) or uncomfortably cold/warm areas can lead to occupant dissatisfaction, which can lead to lower occupancy.
- Sustainability: Demand for LEED®-certified contractors and construction will continue to increase. The rental rates for LEED-certified insulated commercial properties tend to average 20% above average. Alpha Insulation & Waterproofing also uses GREENGUARD®-certified products.
Our company partners with contractors for commercial construction of every type, including:
- Hotels/hospitality
- Industrial
- Bulk/flex warehouses
- Heavy/light manufacturing
- Multifamily
- Duplex/triplex/quadruplex
- Garden apartments
- High-rise/mid-rise
- Multiuse/mixed-use developments
- Office
- Central business district (CBD)
- Class A, B, C
- Suburban
- Retail
- Outparcel
- Power centers
- Shopping centers
- Strip/regional malls
- Special purpose: Museums, theaters, etc.
We always customize insulation solutions for your project. We’ll meet budget and turnaround times without compromising quality. We have insulation expertise with your type of building in your location.
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Types of Insulation We Install
Batt/Blanket Insulation
This fiberglass insulation is installed between metal studs at exterior walls of all building structures as a thermal barrier, increasing the energy efficiency of the building. We offer superior thermal performance with a wide range of products available from R-11 to R-38.
Fiberglass and mineral wool insulation is also installed between metal studs on interior walls to minimize sound transmission from room to room.
Semi-Rigid Insulation
Semi-rigid insulation is a higher-density fiberglass or mineral wool insulation. This material is commonly used behind spandrel glass panels to provide increased R-value to the exterior building envelope.
Rigid Insulation
Most commonly used rigid insulation is either expanded/extruded polystyrene board or polyisocyanurate board insulation. This product is mainly used as thermal insulation on concrete block walls in institutional buildings or freezer/refrigeration units.
Spray Insulation
Spray insulation is typically used to increase acoustical performance in building structures. Alpha Insulation & Waterproofing personnel are trained to spray both cellulose and fiberglass insulation products of nationally recognized spray insulation manufacturers.
Metal Building Insulation
Alpha Firestop Systems personnel are approved installers of Naima 202-96 certified metal building insulation. We install insulation with a high-quality facing for optimum vapor, anti-mold and corrosion prevention.
K-13 Insulation
K-13 insulation is made from recycled cellulose fibers that have been treated with fire retardants, then mixed with water-based adhesives to provide a fast, durable spray-on insulation. It can be left exposed, and it is available in multiple colors to match the design of the building.
Safing Insulation
Safing insulation is a mineral wool insulation normally installed at the top of wall headers and the slab edge between floors. This product is supplemented with firestopping products of nationally recognized manufacturers like Hilti, 3M and STI, and provides UL-rated hourly fire ratings for wall and floor assemblies.
As a certified applicator of Factory Mutual (FM), we are proud to have installed this life safety product at many nationally recognized office buildings, sports arenas, hospitals and convention centers.
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Waterproofing
Expert Waterproofing Services for Commercial & Industrial Projects
Alpha Firestop Systems and their trained professionals have in-depth knowledge and experience in the functionality, installation and performance of waterproofing, remedial waterproofing, caulking and moisture protection systems for commercial and industrial construction projects.
Alpha Firestop Systems is committed to providing a complete waterproofing system for your project and ensuring it’s done right the first time.
Our teams are trained to install the following systems provided by quality manufacturers: American Hydrotech, BASF, Carlisle, CETCO, Dow Corning, Sarnafil, Tremco, Vandex, W.R. Grace, Xypex and York Flashing.
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Sheet-Applied Waterproofing Membranes
Sheet-applied waterproofing systems provide waterproofing protection for below-grade foundation walls, slabs, plaza decks and tunnels. This system consists of the self-adhering membrane, primer for surface preparation, a liquid membrane for detailing, mastic to seal termination points and drainage composites to protect the waterproofing system and provide water management.
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Hot-Applied Waterproofing Membranes
Hot-applied waterproofing is a single-component rubberized asphalt compound that cures to form a strong, flexible, fully adhered, monolithic waterproofing and roofing membrane.
The system typically comprises a double layer of membrane reinforced between layers applied to vertical or horizontal surfaces to ensure water won’t migrate beneath the membrane in the event of physical damage. Hot-applied systems are used on roof terraces, split slab construction for plaza decks and green roof systems.
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Durable Deck Coating Systems
Deck coating systems protect the structure by waterproofing the concrete substrate while providing an attractive wearing surface. Deck coating systems meet the requirements of projects from plaza deck waterproofing to condominium balconies to high-traffic vehicular decks.
The system consists of a durable, skid-resistant wearing surface and a waterproofing layer, which protects above-grade decks from the damaging effects of water and chloride ion penetration, preventing the water from penetrating the spaces below.
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Bentonite Waterproofing Systems
Bentonite waterproofing is a geotextile panel of sodium bentonite clay encased between two woven and nonwoven fabric layers. Bentonite clay in a hydrated state has low permeability and high resistance to chemicals. It’s also self-sealing when punctured or penetrated. Bentonite is ideal for property line or lagging applications.
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Air & Vapor Barrier Systems
Air and vapor barrier materials come in many forms, such as self-adhering sheets, fluid-applied membranes or various forms of fabric wraps; products are also available with breathable and non-breathable performance characteristics.
Due to the building science of air and vapor barriers, a total system approach must be used to match the correct mechanical system with the correct air and vapor barrier system, depending on the geographic climate and the intended use of the building.
Alpha Insulation & Waterproofing is a Registered Accredited Contractor with the Air Barrier Association of America (ABAA). We’re proud to have ABAA-certified installers and supervisors at all our locations.
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Caulking & Sealant Applications
Our experienced teams install state-of-the-art silicone, urethane, preformed foam sealants and preformed silicone extrusion systems that are weatherproof and aesthetically enhance your building. In addition to installing caulk and sealants in new construction projects, we can remove aged or failing caulk or sealants on existing buildings at any height or configuration.
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Water Repellents To Protect Your Building
Water repellent is a clear, filmless, penetrating product for virtually all above-grade, vertical concrete, stucco, block and brick masonry. The treatment does not alter the color or texture of the surface or significantly affect the vapor transmission qualities of the substrate.
The solution penetrates the substrate and chemically reacts to create a powerful barrier against water penetration. This barrier is resistant to ultraviolet and weather deterioration; however, you must reapply on a maintenance schedule every five to 10 years.
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Graffiti Control Using Antigraffiti Treatments
Antigraffiti is a clear treatment for use on concrete, brick, concrete masonry units and natural stone. The treatment protects surfaces to allow easy removal of various graffiti, including spray paint, permanent marker, ink, bituminous paints, asphalt sealers and other solvent or waterborne paints.
Standard nonhazardous cleaners and low-pressure water blasting are sufficient removal methods for most graffiti.
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Cementitious Waterproofing To Protect Your Concrete Structures
Cementitious waterproofing is a unique chemical treatment for the waterproofing and protection of concrete. Structures can be waterproofed from the interior side of the wall by osmosis; the crystalline formation migrates throughout the pores and capillary tracts of concrete even against strong hydrostatic pressure. This treatment is highly resistant to most aggressive substances.
By preventing the intrusion of chemicals, salt water, sewage and other harmful materials, cementitious waterproofing protects concrete and reinforcing steel from deterioration and oxidation, making it a good choice for elevator pits, sewage and water treatment tanks.
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Commercial Waterproofing FAQs
How long does a waterproofing membrane last?
Waterproofing membranes can last 10 years or longer, depending on the quality of the installation. They can also be repaired if they fail early. We offer top-quality waterproofing membranes in both sheet-applied and hot-applied variants. We’ll work diligently to provide a long-lasting, durable installation.
Where should sheet-applied membranes be used?
Sheet-applied membranes can be used for below-grade foundation walls, slabs, plaza decks and more. Installation requires priming the surface, applying the self-adhesive membranes and finishing with liquid-applied membrane or mastic at edges, joints and other critical locations.
At Alpha, we can recommend the best places to use sheet-applied membranes in your commercial facility.
Where are hot-applied membranes used?
Hot-applied membranes are ideal for roof decks and terraces, foundation walls, slabs, balconies and below-grade waterproofing. It’s an asphalt-based coating stabilized with rubber compounds, and it creates a seamless, dual-layer surface for greater protection against leaks than sheet-applied membranes.
When you need a quality hot-applied membrane for your commercial project, turn to our experts at Alpha Insulation & Waterproofing.
How do bentonite waterproofing systems work?
At Alpha, we feature bentonite waterproofing panels that encase a layer of sodium bentonite between two layers of fabric. Bentonite is a clay that naturally expands when exposed to water, creating a self-healing surface that automatically repairs leaks.
Our bentonite panels are ideal for sealing wet locations like the underside of concrete slabs or foundation walls. They’re also ideal for property line and lagging operations and below-grade waterproofing.
What are the benefits of water repellents for commercial buildings?
Water-repellent systems preserve the color and finish of masonry surfaces like brick, stucco, block and concrete. They provide a durable barrier that protects the surface from UV deterioration, stains, discoloration and the effects of freeze-thaw cycles. They must be reapplied every 10 years to remain efficient.
We offer high-quality water repellents to protect your commercial building and keep it looking new.
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Fireproofing
Life safety plays a vital role in the design of buildings in today’s commercial & industrial construction. Sprayed-on fireproofing systems provide a cost-effective approach to meet the hourly ratings required by local building codes and insurance companies. Fireproofing systems provide up to a four-hour rating on structural members, helping to prevent steel from collapsing during a fire.
Alpha Fireproofing is a passive form of protection that is always ready to protect the steel and ultimately lives in the event of a fire. Passive systems are constantly in place as opposed to active systems, such as sprinklers, which are required to activate before they perform.
Spray-applied fireproofing products are the most common types of fireproofing materials. Spray-applied fireproofing can either be cementitious fireproofing (typically gypsum-based, wet mix formulation) or sprayed fiber fireproofing (mineral wool fiber with a portland cement-based binder, dry mix formulation).
Spray-applied materials come in standard density for concealed applications and medium or high density for exposed applications where the fireproofing is constantly subject to abuse and/or moisture.
Sprayed Fiber Fireproofing for Commercial & Industrial Buildings
Made from mineral wool or fiberglass fibers combined with materials like sand, perlite or vermiculite, plus a cement or gypsum binder, sprayed fiber fireproofing offers excellent protection for steel beams, steel columns, structural concrete, wall surfaces, and more. It is lighter than cementitious products while providing similar performance. Once it cures, it offers a strong, durable coating.
Due to its fiber content, sprayed fiber fireproofing also offers some insulation and air-sealing capabilities. This makes it ideal for sealing small cracks and gaps in the outer envelope while simultaneously providing a passive fireproofing layer.
To learn which coating will be the best choice for your needs, talk to our experts at Alpha Firestop Systems We can discuss your application and project specifications, as well as your budget requirements, and we can recommend the best fireproofing solutions for each area of your commercial facility.
We offer a wide range of fireproofing and firestop solutions, and we will work diligently to make your business as safe as possible.
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Fire Retardant
When it comes to applying flame retardants, it’s essential to use a specific amount of liquid spread evenly throughout your roof. That is why it’s a must to work with an experienced contractor fully trained in the application of fire retardants.
Alpha Firestop Systems respects the significant investment you made to make your thatch roof a reality. Reduce your risk of fire hazards and maintain the natural beauty of your roof. We pride ourselves on our ability to ensure your thatch roof is well protected with a rich coating of fire retardant.
We’re pleased to offer you reliable protection at the most competitive prices. Whether you’re an independent builder, engineer, architect, or homeowner, we can help safeguard your investment from water deterioration and potential fire hazards.
Stay safe and secured. Our fire retardant services are an affordable and reliable alternative to slow down thatch and building burnouts. Stop worrying about the safety of your structure. Our fire retardant services are a quick and easy way to protect your investment against fire, mold, insects, and nasty rodents.
Our Off-Site Services include flame retardant application and certification, as well as cleaning, repair and water and stain resistance treatment for theatrical drapes, upholstery, and wall and window coverings.
If you need On-Site Services, we work around your hours of operation to provide flame retardant application and certification of your fabrics, as well as cleaning, repair work, and water and stain resistance treatments.
And if you want to know about flame retardant application and flame resistance certification from the inside out, check out our Workshops! Attendants not only learn all about flame retardant application and certification, testing, state fire code compliance, liability and how to plan purchases of materials more effectively, but also get to participate in hands-on flame retardant application and in-house testing.
