There is no absolute way to prevent a fire, but building practices and choice of materials do have an impact. There are materials that don’t catch fire as quickly, and as a result, it can buy some time, in case a mishap happens. As the name suggests, fire resistant lumber is a kind of lumber that is resistant to fire. In this post, we are discussing some of the aspects that homeowners need to know before selecting fire resistant lumber for their homes.
What exactly is fire resistant lumber?
As we discussed earlier, there is no solution or trick that can prevent a fire. Critics often don’t recommend extensive use of wood for building homes, because by nature, wood is prone to catching fire. Fire resistant lumber is a type of lumber that has been treated chemically with the intention to slowing down fire, in case a mishap happens. This kind of lumber is tested adequately before being sold. While using fire resistant lumber doesn’t prevent a fire per se, it can slow down the mishap, so there’s more time to seek help and solutions.
Should you consider this option for your home?
Using fire resistant lumber could be a must in certain states, cities, mainly because of building codes. Talk to your architect in advance if any such law or building codes must be adhered to. Using this kind of lumber is usually recommended over standard options because homes built with wood are prone to fire mishaps. If there is more scope for electrical sparking, this might be the most viable way of avoiding mishaps. The use of fire-resistant lumber is also common in certain specific parts of the house, such as the kitchen where there are extreme heat sources, such as the fireplace or oven. It should be noted that fire resistant lumber doesn’t prevent the fire from happening, but should one start, it buys enough time and reduces the rate at which the fire may spread otherwise.
Ask for an estimate
If you want to understand how and to what extent you can use fire resistant lumber for your home, check with one of the suppliers and discuss your concerns with the design team. Think of this as a onetime investment for your home, and every penny is worth spending. Also, don’t forget to ask for an estimate in advance, so that you can plan the budget accordingly.
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