Fire retardant building materials; Which material to use to keep your house safe from fire?
Home is a place where you not only find comfort but also safety. People want their homes to look great from the outside and forget about the safety especially regarding the fire hazards. Deaths are reported every day in Singapore because of various fire accidents. A lot has to do with the carelessness but the biggest mistake most of the engineers suggest people is to use any material to build their homes. On an individual level, do a suitable amount of research on what material you want them to use.
Fire protection starts in the planning stage. Many places other than your home need extra protection measures because they have heavy human traffic. This is the reason, selection of the material has become very challenging and complex.
Here is a countdown of the Fire Retardant Materials in Singapore which can be used in construction:
1. Bricks- Bricks are a core of the building and are also fire retardant. You know why? Because the way a brick is made makes it possible to resist fire. It can survive at a high temperature because it is made in a very hot temperature. Furthermore, a thick layer of cement also adds to protection against the fire. However, the thickness of the wall greatly predicts how long brick can hold the fire. A well-made brick can resist fire up to 4 hours.
2. Concrete- Concrete is one of the most important materials used in the construction process. The reason is, it ensures durability accompanied by fire and weather resistance. Moreover, the maintenance cost is also affordable. It is firm and thus cannot be easily deflected. Moreover, it acts as a protective layer for steel structure if a fire breaks.
3. Fire Resistant Glass- Glass is sensitive and likely to burst first if a fire ever breaks out. This is a problem since temperature also affects glass. This can bring the hazard of breakage if the fire breaks out. The glass greatly depends on the kind of frame used for the window. If the wooden frame is used, the window might resist fire for a little time. However, if you want the complete protection, use metal-based frames with fire-resistant glass.
4. Gypsum- Gypsum is used in many decoration and construction processes. Though it does need help as many other measures are taken to make it fire resistant. Gypsum walls are treated chemically to ensure they give full protection from the fire. Fire resistant gypsum panels have a capability of surviving in the fire for more than two to three hours on average. Gypsum is used in the construction of walls and ceilings both.
5. Fire Retardant Aluminium- Aluminium has been known for its fire resistant properties for ages. The reason is it does not catch fire. In fact, it melts when the temperature rises above its melting point which is quite high. Though their heat conductivity is more than steel, still since it is not that expensive, it is used in abundance in many construction activities. It is highly recommended to be used in building or places where there is heavy human traffic for example schools, banks etc. The aluminum can survive in temperature between 200°C to 250°C. If the temperature crosses this limit, the aluminum will start losing the strength. But the good thing is that it can be recycled and there are a number of manufacturers in Singapore offering this service.
The selection of the best fire retardant building in Singapore materials depends on your budget too. But keep in mind, you will want a safer place than money.
