Preserving the Integrity of Your Buildings & Ensuring Safety
In the world of fireproofing, experience with specific materials and the ability to adapt to varying conditions matter. With expertise spanning more than 50 years, we have honed the craft of applied fireproofing.
The mastery of mixing and applying diverse materials under fluctuating environmental conditions within a multitude of building designs is not a skill acquired overnight. It’s an art that demands careful attention to detail. At our core, we understand the importance of making precise adjustments to our mix and spray consistency, accounting for factors such as air temperature, relative humidity, ventilation, hose length, and surface characteristics. This commitment to excellence ensures that our fireproofing services stand as a testament to both our experience and dedication to safeguarding your structures.
What is Applied Fireproofing?
The formal term for Spray Applied Fireproofing is Sprayed Fire-Resistive Material (SFRM). Its primary application involves safeguarding sturdy structural components such as columns, beams, metal decking, and certain steel joists by mitigating the impact of heat generated during a fire.
Fireproofing serves as a critical safeguard for a building’s structural integrity, shielding it from potential deterioration or collapse. Specifically designed for steel and concrete, insulation fireproofing addresses the heightened vulnerability of these materials during a fire incident. In situations like this, steel may weaken and crack, while concrete can undergo expansion and bursting. By incorporating fireproofing measures, we not only ensure the safety of workers but also provide long-term protection for equipment within the building.
Applied fireproofing is a vital safeguard in the world of construction. While steel is exceptionally strong, it is not impervious to the devastating effects of high temperatures, which can cause deformation and loss of structural integrity. To counteract this vulnerability, fireproofing steel has become a pivotal practice. This passive fire protection system, also known as fireproofing, works to mitigate the rate of temperature increase in steel during a fire, delaying or even preventing structural failure.
By applying fireproofing material to steel columns, beams, metal decking, and joists, it acts as a shield against the intense heat generated by fires, also offering acoustical dampening and thermal insulation benefits. In the event of a fire, this critical approach ensures that a building maintains its shape, giving occupants valuable time to evacuate safely and providing fire crews with an extended window to save the structural integrity of the building. In essence, applied fireproofing is a guardian of structures, preserving their integrity and, ultimately, safeguarding lives.
Excellence in Fireproofing Requires Expertise
Our Novinger’s Inc Crews are Licensed Applicators for Leading Manufacturers, including:
Need commercial fireproofing in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, Delaware, and West Virginia? Trust the trained & certified fireproofing crews at Novinger’s Inc.
A Closer Look
Types of Fireproofing
Fireproofing is classified into three distinct types based on density and usage:
Standard Density Fireproofing
Primarily employed on interior structural areas not exposed to view, this cost-effective option reinforces the structural integrity of load-bearing components.
Medium Density Fireproofing
Designed to withstand a certain level of wear and tear, it is commonly utilized on exposed surfaces in areas with regular human contact, such as equipment/mechanical rooms.
High Density Fireproofing
Ideal for exterior surfaces and locations exposed to various environmental conditions, this robust material is resistant to heavy use, ensuring the longevity of your structure’s fireproofing. It is frequently employed in high-traffic areas, including parking garages and warehouses, where durability is paramount.
Experience and Expertise in Fireproofing
Our crews have extensive experience in applying high, medium, and low-density spray fireproofing for structural steel to meet project specifications, achieving 1-, 2-, 3-, or 4-hour fire ratings as required. In certain projects, we may also apply interior and/or exterior intumescent coatings, tailored to the unique needs of each structure.
After the spray fireproofing material is expertly applied, an independent inspector examines the finished work, ensuring it meets the prescribed standards for density, thickness, and adhesion/cohesion.
At Novinger’s Inc, our fireproofing crews are trained and certified in the safe utilization of scaffolding and lift equipment, ensuring a secure and efficient application process. Spray fireproofing is the most cost-effective means of safeguarding steel structures, offering a uniform coating that leaves no room for gaps. Our range of equipment allows us to tackle projects of varying sizes with efficiency and precision.
Insulation Methods
We can apply cementitious, intumescent and mastic material applications – meeting the unique requirements of each job according to the applicable building code at the site. Each method of insulation fireproofing provides a different set of benefits based on application and the composition of materials.
Our products are available in standard, medium, and high-density variants, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Fireproofing
Frequently Asked Questions
What is applied fireproofing and how does Novinger’s do it?
Applied fireproofing, formally known as Sprayed Fire-Resistive Material (SFRM), is a passive fire protection system sprayed on structural elements like steel columns, beams, metal decking, and joists. Novinger’s trained crews mix and apply materials on site, adjusting for temperature, humidity, ventilation, and surface conditions to ensure proper protection and performance.
Why is fireproofing important for commercial buildings?
Fireproofing helps protect the structural integrity of a building during a fire, slowing the rate of temperature rise in critical steel and concrete components. This gives occupants more time to evacuate and helps fire crews preserve the strength of the structure.
What types of fireproofing does Novinger’s offer?
We apply standard, medium, and high-density spray fireproofing materials. Standard is common for interior structural areas, medium is suited for exposed areas subject to moderate contact, and high density is ideal for exterior surfaces or high-use spaces like parking garages and warehouses.
Can Novinger’s achieve required fire-rating levels?
Yes. Our crews are experienced in applying fireproofing to meet project specifications, achieving 1-, 2-, 3-, or 4-hour fire resistance ratings as required under applicable building codes.
Why does fireproofing require expert application?
Applying fireproofing correctly requires experience adjusting mixes and spray consistency based on environmental conditions and surface characteristics. Our crews bring decades of expertise to ensure quality, uniform coverage, and adhesion.
Where does Novinger’s perform fireproofing work?
We provide applied fireproofing for commercial construction projects throughout Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, Delaware, and West Virginia, working with general contractors, architects, and owners.
Does fireproofing offer other benefits besides fire protection?
Yes — sprayed fireproofing also provides acoustical dampening and thermal insulation benefits, making it a smart solution for both safety and building performance.
How do inspections work after fireproofing is applied?
Once our crews complete the application, an independent inspector typically reviews the work to confirm that density, thickness, and adhesion/cohesion meet project and code requirements.
What materials can Novinger’s apply?
Novinger’s can apply cementitious, intumescent, and mastic fireproofing systems depending on job specifications and building code needs.
How does Novinger’s coordinate fireproofing with the rest of construction?
Our team works closely with general contractors and project managers to schedule fireproofing at the appropriate stage of construction so it integrates smoothly with steel erection and other trades.
Is fireproofing regulated by building codes?
Yes. Applied fireproofing is part of passive fire protection systems that help buildings comply with fire-resistance requirements in commercial codes, ensuring safety and legal compliance.
How can I request fireproofing services from Novinger’s?
You can contact Novinger’s Estimating team to discuss your project, get fireproofing options, and receive pre-bid information, including product densities and tailored solutions.
