Where Does a Commercial Building Need Fireproofing?

Virtually all commercial buildings in Ontario require fireproofing to be compliant with regional building codes. The Ontario Building Code requires that commercial fireproofing be applied to structural steel, metal roofs, floor decks, elevator shafts, stairwells, mechanical/utility rooms, exit corridors and more. EcoStar Insulation is a team of experienced, trained, and insured fireproofing contractors serving Southern Ontario since 2008 that can help you install and maintain your fireproofing so that you’re compliant and maximize the safety of your property. 

Here’s what you need to know about where a commercial property will need fireproofing services.

Structural Steel and Load-Bearing Components

Steel is strong, but under extreme heat produced by a fire, the material can lose strength and compromise the structure of a building. Fireproofing helps protect beams, columns, joists, and other load-bearing components by delaying the impact of heat during a fire and reducing the time to collapse.

At EcoStar Insulation, we often use cementitious fireproofing for structural steel because it creates a durable, fire-resistant layer around important building components. This type of system is commonly used in commercial, industrial, institutional, and multi-storey buildings where strength and protection matter.

Roof Decks and Floor Assemblies

Commercial properties may also need fireproofing on metal roof decks and floor assemblies. Roof decks and floor assemblies separate different levels of a building. When the right fireproofing services are used, the application can slow the spread of fire between spaces.

Our fireproofing services may be recommended during new construction, building upgrades, renovations, additions, or commercial reroofing and retrofit projects where existing fire protection is missing, damaged, or no longer performing as intended.

Stairwells, Elevator Shafts, and Exit Corridors

Exit routes are especially important during an emergency. Stairwells, elevator shafts, and exit corridors may require fire-rated assemblies to help contain fire and smoke long enough for occupants to exit safely.

As fireproofing contractors, our team can assess these areas and determine what type of protection is appropriate based on the building layout, surface material, and project requirements.

Mechanical and Utility Rooms

Mechanical rooms, electrical rooms, boiler rooms, and utility spaces often contain equipment that can increase fire risk, which is why property owners are expected to install fireproofing in these areas. Using fireproofing here adds fire protection to help separate the space from occupied areas and reduce the chance of fire spreading quickly through the property.

In some buildings, intumescent fireproofing may be used where appearance, space, or specific performance requirements matter. Intumescent fireproofing expands when exposed to heat, helping protect the structure while creating a cleaner finished look than some other systems.

Choose the Right Fireproofing System with EcoStar Insulation

The right system depends on the building, the required fire-resistance rating, and the surface being protected. Cementitious fireproofing is often a practical choice for structural protection, while intumescent systems may be recommended when aesthetics or space limitations are part of the project.

At EcoStar Insulation, in addition to spray foam insulation, we provide commercial fireproofing and fireproofing services across Southern Ontario. If your building is being constructed, renovated, inspected, or brought up to compliance, our team can help determine where protection is needed and install the right system for your property.