In the United States, fireproofing requirements vary from state to state and even within municipalities. However, there are requirements for most mid-to-large-sized commercial spaces to have structural fireproofing at a minimum. 

The Importance of Fireproofing 

The primary goal of commercial fireproofing is to delay structural failure, which ensures evacuation routes remain accessible for a prescribed amount of time, using between 1-4 hours. 

When exposed to high heat, structural steel can lose up to half of its strength and begin to buckle or collapse around 1,000°F. Fireproofing materials act as a thermal barrier, keeping the temperature of the steel below this critical level, making the structure sound even in emergencies.

To ensure safety, commercial buildings must meet stringent fire-resistance ratings (FRR) set by local and national codes, such as those governed by the International Building Code (IBC) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Building Types That Require Fireproofing 

The type and scale of commercial fireproofing required depend on the building height, size, occupancy, and use. Here are the main types of commercial spaces and the types of fireproofing they require:

Entertainment Spaces 

Entertainment spaces like museums, theaters, and sports arenas require fireproofing for long-span trusses and structural roof supports to protect large, open-span areas. The requirement is driven by high occupant load and long travel distances to exits. Sprayed Fire-Resistive Materials (SFRM) are often used on concealed steel for cost-effectiveness, while Intumescent Coatings may be used on exposed structural elements in public areas where aesthetics are a priority.

Churches & Community Centers 

For churches and community centers, fireproofing is primarily needed on the structural steel columns and beams supporting large assembly halls and multi-purpose rooms. The main driver is the assembly occupancy classification and the need to protect the means of egress during potential overcrowding. Low- to Medium-Density SFRM is typically the best solution due to its balance of protection and value, as most steel is hidden above suspended ceilings.

Civic Institutions, Educational, and Higher Ed Facilities 

These facilities require protection for the structural frames and support for fire-rated corridors and gymnasiums. Fireproofing is required due to the institutional occupancy and the need to protect occupants, particularly those who may be less familiar with the facility, like college students, or require supervised evacuation, like kindergartners. Sprayed fireproofing is the standard material for hidden steel, while Fire-Rated Gypsum Boards may be used in utility shafts and fire separation walls.

Convention Centers 

Convention centers involve massive clear-span areas, demanding protection for roof trusses, long-span girders, and any structural supports over exhibit halls. Fireproofing is required due to the extreme size, high occupant load, and complexity of the structure. High-density sprayed fireproofing is often specified for its durability and impact resistance in large, open, and sometimes mechanically active spaces.

Hospitality and Hotel

Structural fireproofing is essential for the load-bearing elements that support the guest rooms, lobbies, and ballrooms. The requirement is primarily driven by the high building height and the need for compartmentation to protect sleeping occupants on upper floors. Spray foam is the most common method, and it’s usually applied to floor and roof assemblies, ensuring the necessary 2-hour rating for the building’s structure.

Multi-Family and Residential

Fireproofing is required for main structural columns, floor decks, and vertical shafts in multi-family and residential buildings. This is required due to the height of the building and the necessity of protecting vertical means of egress and occupant sleeping areas. Sprayed fireproofing is the standard for structural steel, coupled with firestopping where utilities penetrate fire-rated floor assemblies between units.

Mixed Use & Retail

Retail and mixed-use buildings require protection for the structure that supports the residential or office floors above, and the main columns in the retail area below. The fireproofing requirement is driven by the change in occupancy classification at the base level and the overall building height. Sprayed fireproofing is used on the concealed structural frame, while Intumescent Coatings may be considered for exposed columns in architecturally critical retail lobbies.

Commercial Offices 

Fireproofing is required on all structural beams, columns, and metal decking in commercial offices to maintain the building’s integrity. This is typically required because of the high-rise classification and the high concentration of occupants and assets. As far as materials, sprayed foam is the most widely used material, often required to meet 2-hour or 3-hour ratings for the main structural core.

Healthcare and Hospitals

These critical facilities require protection for the entire structural system, including beams, columns, and floor assemblies, especially those supporting operating rooms and critical equipment. The requirement is driven by Institutional Occupancy (I-2), which demands the highest level of life safety and business continuity to maintain operations during an emergency. High-Density SFRM is typically preferred for its superior durability and protection of critical structural elements. 

Different Types of Commercial Fireproofing 

Intumescent fireproofing

Intumescent fireproofing is achieved with a special, paint-like coating that expands when it’s exposed to high heat. This forms a thick, insulating layer that protects the materials it’s applied to. 

Sprayed fireproofing

Sprayed fireproofing combines fire-resistant materials with gypsum or cement into a mixture that’s spray-applied to steel or concrete surfaces. This creates a fireproofed layer over important structural elements. 

CAFCO-board fireproofing

The CAFCO board is a specific type of rigid board fireproofing. This type of fireproofing utilizes pre-formed panels made of mineral wool, gypsum, or cementitious board that can create a non-combustible enclosure in areas that are difficult to spray. 

Fireproofing Vs Firestopping 

The main difference between firestopping and fireproofing is the purpose — and that affects how and where it’s applied.

Fireproofing’s primary purpose is to protect structural elements like steel beams and columns. Fireproofing insulates these elements from heat to prevent structural collapse. Firerpoofing materials can be sprays, coatings, or rigid boards. These materials can be applied to the surface of load-bearing elements and other essential structural elements like the roof.   

On the other hand, firestopping is for penetrations like windows and doors, and the goal is to contain the fire and prevent the spread between compartments. This focuses on sealing openings, using intumescent sealants, caulks, mortars, and other methods. 

Fireproofing in Arkansas

Oaks Brothers Inc. specializes in commercial fireproofing, insulation, and exteriors. We’re a trusted commercial fireproofing partner across the U.S., including Arkansas, Tennessee, Florida, Louisiana, Oklahoma, North Carolina, Texas, Mississippi, Missouri, and Alabama.

 In Arkansas, the Arkansas Fire Prevention Code (AFPC), Volume II, serves as the commercial building code statewide and is based on the 2021 International Building Code (IBC) with specific Arkansas amendments. In Arkansas and other states in the U.S., there is not one single fire resistance rating that applies to all building types. 

That’s why it’s vital to work with a partner that knows these building codes and how they vary for different building types and occupancy levels. For example, a type 1-A building in Arkansas will require the most fireproofing, with structural steel requiring a 3-hour fire-resistant rating. These building types are generally high-rise buildings, hospitals, or large civic institutions.

Oaks Brothers Inc. has worked on type 1-A projects in Arkansas, including the Jefferson Regional Hospital in White Hall and Unity Health in Searcy. Our work includes recommended specific fireproofing products and materials, and applying them along with other exterior and insulation finishes to ensure these buildings are energy efficient, safe, and comfortable. 

Get in Touch with a Commercial Fireproofing Partner 

Our trustworthy, full-time crews are experts in local fire codes, ensuring we can consult and design a fireproofing system for your commercial space that meets all your needs. Get in touch today to learn more.