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Fire Sprinklers Raise Need for Moisture-Resistant Products
With fire sprinklers this year starting to be written into the International Residential Code (IRC) for one- and two-family homes, architects and builders should consider incorporating moisture-resistant products in areas of the home vulnerable to water damage and mold growth, according to Georgia-Pacific Gypsum.
The additional plumbing required for fire sprinklers can increase the risk of water intrusion from leaky pipes and fixtures or even as a result of the sprinklers being set off accidentally, according to the manufacturer.
Unlike traditional paper-faced gypsum panels that are highly absorbent, Georgia-Pacific’s DensArmour Plus High Performance gypsum panels feature fiberglass mats front and back that make them moisture- and mold-resistant.
When mold resistance is tested in accordance with ASTM D 3273, Georgia-Pacific says, DensArmour Plus panels have earned a 10, which is the highest rating.
“Using fiberglass mat gypsum panels from Georgia-Pacific Gypsum is an integral part of any successful moisture-resistance or preparedness building strategy, as it features multiple benefits for the construction teams as well as the home or business owner,” Georgia-Pacific says.
“Moisture- and mold-resistant DensArmour Plus gypsum panels can help mitigate the risk of costly repairs should the sprinkler system be set off,” the company says. Additionally, to support better indoor air quality, the panels are GREENGUARD Indoor Air Quality Certified for low chemical emissions and are GREENGUARD listed as microbial-resistant.
Georgia-Pacific notes that not every municipality has adopted the IRC codes. “However,” it says, “many have or have plans to in the near future. Overall, it is imperative to increase industry awareness of the coming IRC changes, to communicate proper installation methods and innovative building materials that help the building industry remain competitive and apply better building practices sooner.
Click here to check the status of the code changes in individual municipalities, and then click on the I-Code Adoptions link.
Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia-Pacific Corporation is a member of the National Council of the Housing Industry — The Leading Suppliers of NAHB.
This feature is solely for educational and informational purposes. Nothing on this page should be construed as policy, an endorsement, warranty or guaranty by the National Association of Home Builders of the featured product or the product manufacturer. The National Association of Home Builders expressly disclaims any responsibility for any damages arising from the use, application or reliance on any information contained on this page.
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