How do SIPs react in a Fire?
Manufacturers across North America have proven the fire performance of SIP systems through some of the most extensive fire assembly testing in the construction Industry. The results of this destructive testing allow documentation of SIP performance under rigorous test standards. National standards like ASTM - E119, ASTM - E84 and UBC 17 - 5 have been met by protecting SIPs in a similar fashion as other wood based structures. ’One Hour’ fire resistive assemblies are achieved by combinations of underlying structure and protection of that structure by Gypsum Wall Board.
Residential structures are typically required to meet a fifteen minute standard and meet that standard by applying ½" common gypsum over Structural Insulated Panels.
Light commercial and multi-family structures can be required to meet the more restrictive one-hour fire resistive standards. Some of these prescriptive assemblies are listed in the UL® Fire Resistive Assembly Manual, but can be summarized as follows;
1.) Two layers of 5/8" ’type X’ gypsum, attached per the Manufacturers code report, on structural insulated panels with various connections.
2.) One Layer of 5/8" ’type C’ gypsum, attached per the Manufacturers code report, on structural insulated panels joined with dimensional lumber or solid engineered wood products at 48" on center or closer.
As with any fire resistive issue, the local jurisdiction requirements will vary by region, building classification and structure occupancy. You should contact your local building and fire departments to determine those local requirements and involve the design professional to ensure compliance with local and national codes.
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