Asbestos Cement-Based Siding as Firewall

[Brian A. MacNeish]

Originally Posted by krigler

I agree Peter, in this case it was a mute point. But afterward I was thinking about different materials, including the asbestos cement-based siding and their ability to maintain a fire in the garage. When I think firewall I always first assume drywall needed. But what if the interior garage is lined with something like metal siding and there are no other breaches of the firewall...is that okay? I suppose it goes back to Marcel's point on whether or not it has a U.L. listing or not.

Kenny

That may not cut it !!

Fire will not move through it but heat can be quickly transferred through the thin metal, especially if the flame or hot embers is right on the metal. It can/may get hot enough to set studs/other combustibles in the wall cavity on fire and thus not meet a fire resistance rating.

[Brian E. Kelly]

Originally Posted by sfogarty

WHy would you be worried about it being a firewall. The whole house will never meet todays standards. Just write it up as so and move on..

You and I may know this, but we are supposed to be passing important information along to our Clients.....

They may not be as well versed in Safety Standards as you are, and might want to know about the "Firewall" so they may make an informed decision on their purchase.

[Kenny Rigler]

Originally Posted by bkelly2

You and I may know this, but we are supposed to be passing important information along to our Clients.....

They may not be as well versed in Safety Standards as you are, and might want to know about the "Firewall" so they may make an informed decision on their purchase.

And that's what really spurred the question for me. They were asking if the siding, since it was cement-based, would suffice as material to keep the fire in the garage. I did point out all the other breaches, but wanted to be sure I was clarifying correctly about the siding material itself. Thanks for all the replies.

Kenny