The Challenge: Additional testing required by the NYC Building Code.
The 2022 NYC Building Code brings with it significant challenges to using aluminum composite material (ACM) in exterior wall assemblies. The new code’s stringent requirements mean that standard product-based full scale NFPA 285 fire tests are no longer acceptable. Instead, multiple project-specific NFPA 285 tests for various wall configurations could be required for each project, leading to increased costs, project delays, and potential design limitations.
The inclusion of ACM in exterior facades has become a popular choice due to their aesthetic appeal, durability, and resistance to oil-canning. However, these materials, although often fire resistant, are not classified as non-combustible, triggering the need for extensive fire testing to meet the 2022 NYC Building Code’s mandates.
The Solution: Use Vitraplate, a non-combustible cladding material.
Fairview Architectural has invested significantly into research and development, and now has a viable solution to mitigate these challenges: the utilization of Vitraplate prefinished aluminum as a non-combustible alternative to ACM. Vitraplate offers the same wide range of finishes and colors as ACM, providing comparable aesthetic appeal without the fire safety concerns associated with ACM. By selecting Vitraplate and designing a non-combustible wall assembly, building owners and developers can avoid the cost of multiple NFPA 285 tests and avoid the risk of not using non-combustible materials, streamlining the approval process and accelerating project timelines.
The benefits of using Vitraplate are substantial:
- Cost Savings: Eliminating the need for multiple NFPA 285 tests results in significant cost reductions.
- Time Efficiency: Streamlined approval process accelerates project timelines.
- Design Flexibility: Vitraplate’s versatility allows for diverse design options without compromising fire safety.
- Enhanced Safety: As a non-combustible material, Vitraplate contributes to a safer building environment.
We believe that adopting Vitraplate as a preferred material for exterior facades can be a game-changer for the construction industry in New York City, and is the product of choice to meet the 2022 NYC Building Code.
By embracing this innovative solution, we can collectively address the challenges posed by the 2022 NYC Building Code while maintaining the highest standards of fire safety and aesthetic appeal.
What is the NFPA 285?
NFPA 285 is a test standard set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) that outlines a fire test method for evaluating the fire propagation characteristics of non load-bearing exterior wall assemblies that have products that are not classified as non-combustible. This standard is crucial for ensuring the safety of buildings, particularly high-rise structures, by assessing how well an exterior wall can resist the spread of fire.
- Purpose: To determine the ability of an exterior wall assembly to prevent or limit the spread of fire from an interior to the exterior of a building.
- Test Procedure: Involves subjecting a full-scale exterior wall assembly to a standardized fire exposure and measuring the subsequent flame spread, heat transfer, and other relevant factors.
- Criteria: A wall assembly passes the NFPA 285 test if it meets specific criteria, such as limiting flame spread to the interior of the building and preventing excessive heat transfer.
- Importance: Compliance with NFPA 285 is often required for certain types of buildings, especially those with multiple stories, to ensure safety and reduce the risk of fire-related damage.
In essence, NFPA 285 is a vital tool for assessing the fire resistance of exterior wall assemblies and helping to promote safer buildings.
Suggested further reading
Want to learn more? Here are some additional blog posts that you may find of interest:
– Solid aluminum panel cladding – passing trend or here to stay?
– What are the processes in the supply chain for coated metal panel products?
– Why is coil coated metal the best choice for exterior facade panels
– Do aluminum panels need to be welded?
Contact our team for more information and to discuss your specific project needs.
