In a fire-rated assembly, which statement is true about firestop products?

In a fire-rated assembly, which statement is true about firestop products?

• A. They are used only on exterior walls
• B. They are used to seal around penetrations to preserve fire resistance
• C. They must be decorative only
• D. They are used to increase structural strength

Answer: (B)

Firestop products are used to seal around penetrations and joints in fire-rated assemblies to maintain the intended fire resistance. Penetrations for pipes, cables, and ducts create paths for flame, heat, and gases to travel through walls and floors. Firestop materials fill and seal these gaps so the assembly continues to meet its rated fire duration, even under heat. They come in various forms—caulks, mortar-like fillers, sleeves, wraps—that react to heat to form a barrier and slow or stop fire spread. They are not decorative, they do not add structural strength, and they apply to both interior and exterior walls as needed to preserve the rating.

Firestop products are used to seal around penetrations and joints in fire-rated assemblies to maintain the intended fire resistance. Penetrations for pipes, cables, and ducts create paths for flame, heat, and gases to travel through walls and floors. Firestop materials fill and seal these gaps so the assembly continues to meet its rated fire duration, even under heat. They come in various forms—caulks, mortar-like fillers, sleeves, wraps—that react to heat to form a barrier and slow or stop fire spread. They are not decorative, they do not add structural strength, and they apply to both interior and exterior walls as needed to preserve the rating.