
A one-hour fire-rated wall is a barrier designed to withstand fire exposure for at least an hour, providing a basic level of protection. The composition of these walls typically includes gypsum board or other materials that adhere to strict guidelines set by the relevant testing authority. For instance, in Canada, the Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC) specifies that a one-hour fire-rated wall must be able to maintain its structural integrity and limit the temperature rise on the unexposed side to around 121 degrees Celsius. The choice between a one-hour or a two-hour fire-rated wall depends on factors such as building codes, the type of structure, and its intended use.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Composition | Gypsum board or other materials adhering to Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC) guidelines |
| Effectiveness | Ability to maintain structural integrity and limit temperature rise on the unexposed side to around 121°C |
| Fire Resistance | Minimum of 1 hour |
| Materials | Fire-resistant drywall, insulation, and specific assembly methods |
| Thickness | Reduced thickness with LP FlameBlock Sheathing |
| Time Rating | 1-hour rating |
| UL Design | V340, U348 (stucco), U348 (brick) |
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What You'll Learn

Fire-Rated SIS Panels
The construction industry is witnessing a growing market for insulated sheathing, driven by the demand for higher-performing buildings. SIS Panels stand out by offering complete customization of sheathing and insulation types, allowing builders and architects to specify the optimal solutions for their projects.
One notable Fire-Rated SIS Panel is the DuPont™ ArmorWall™ Plus and ArmorWall™ SP Plus Fire-Rated Structural Insulated Sheathing (SIS). These panels can be installed and cured in harsh weather conditions, and can be exposed to UV radiation for up to 180 days without requiring additional protection. They also offer superior strength compared to similar products due to their patented Fusion Technology and rigid component facing, preventing delamination issues that arise with other panels when exposed to moisture, heat, or load.
In summary, Fire-Rated SIS Panels are a key component in achieving one-hour fire-rated walls, offering time and cost savings, customization options, and superior strength and durability. By streamlining construction processes and providing fire safety, these panels are an attractive solution for builders and architects.
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Gypsum board
Type X gypsum board is defined by the ASTM C1396 Standard Specification and provides a 1-hour fire rating when a 5/8" panel is applied to each side of wood studs. The full definition of Type X gypsum board also includes specific installation requirements, such as the use of load-bearing 2x4 studs spaced 16" apart, vertical board application, and specific fastener spacing.
Type X gypsum board is commonly used in both wood and steel stud wall assemblies, providing fire resistance ranging from 1 to 4 hours. For example, in a steel stud wall assembly, each layer of Type X gypsum board provides one hour of fire resistance.
Type C gypsum board, on the other hand, is less commonly used in wall assemblies. A 2-hour wall can be achieved with two layers of 5/8" Type C gypsum board on each side of metal studs, similar to Type X.
In addition to fire resistance, gypsum board products may offer additional benefits such as resistance to mold, mildew, moisture, sound, impact, and weather exposure.
When constructing a 1-hour fire-rated wall, it is important to consider not only the gypsum board but also other assembly components such as interior drywall and cavity insulation.
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Building codes
Fire-resistant walls are crucial in preventing the spread of fire within a building and to neighbouring structures. The fire rating of a wall indicates its ability to contain a fire and prevent its propagation. Building codes specify the minimum fire resistance requirements for different types of buildings and their components, including walls, floors, and roofs.
In the context of one-hour fire-rated walls, building codes typically mandate that these walls be able to withstand fire for at least one hour. This rating is determined through standardised fire simulation tests conducted by organisations like the American Society for Testing and Materials or calculated using tables provided by the International Building Code (IBC).
To achieve a one-hour fire rating, walls are constructed using specific materials and techniques. For example, a typical one-hour fire-rated wall consists of 2x4 studs spaced 16 inches apart, covered by 5/8-inch Type X gypsum board. Type X gypsum board is a non-combustible material that enhances the wall's fire resistance.
It is important to note that building codes may vary depending on the location and specific regulations in a particular region. For instance, the Portland Building Code Guide 23-10 provides detailed requirements for fire-rated walls, including exterior wall specifications and the use of gypsum board. Additionally, products like LP® FlameBlock® Fire-Rated Sheathing have been developed to meet code requirements for fire-resistant construction while offering design flexibility and potential cost savings.
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Structural integrity
The composition of 1-hour fire-rated walls typically includes fire-resistant materials such as gypsum panels or boards, which have been used in wall assemblies for fire resistance for about a century. These panels or boards must meet strict guidelines, such as those set by the Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC) or equivalent standards. In addition to gypsum, other materials used in 1-hour fire-rated walls include DensGlass Fireguard Sheathing, DensArmor Plus Fireguard interior panels, and ToughRock Fireguard X gypsum board.
To meet the 1-hour fire-rated wall standard, the construction must include materials like fire-resistant drywall and insulation. These components must be assembled in a specific way to prevent the passage of flames and high temperatures for a minimum of one hour. The effectiveness of a 1-hour fire-rated wall is determined by its ability to maintain structural integrity and limit the temperature increase on the unexposed side to below a certain threshold, typically around 121 degrees Celsius.
The choice between a 1-hour or 2-hour fire-rated wall depends on various factors, including building codes, the type of structure, and its intended use. Building codes, such as those in Canada, often specify the required fire resistance rating based on the building's occupancy, location, and size. For example, a 1-hour fire-rated wall may be required in commercial structures, multi-family residential buildings, and designated egress areas.
It is important to note that the fire-rating of a wall assembly is dependent on the combination of various components, and the panels themselves do not carry a fire rating. Therefore, builders must consider the overall assembly, including cavity insulation and interior drywall, to achieve the desired fire-rating.
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Assembly methods
A 1-hour fire-rated wall is designed to withstand fire for at least an hour before it compromises the wall's structural integrity. The choice between a 1-hour and a 2-hour rating depends on factors like building codes, the type of structure, and its intended use.
- UL Design No. V340: This assembly allows for 2x4 wall construction and is fire-resistance-rated for 1 hour from both sides.
- UL Design No. U348: This assembly is used with stucco or brick and is fire-resistance-rated for 1 hour from both sides. It is commonly used in Type V multifamily construction in load-bearing exterior walls.
- Fire-Rated SIS Panels: These panels assist in fire-rating assemblies and are the primary fire retardant material. However, additional components like interior drywall and cavity insulation are necessary to achieve a tested 1-hour rating.
- Gypsum board: A 1-hour fire-rated wall typically includes at least one layer of 5/8-inch Type X gypsum board per side. This can be applied with a layer of setting-type joint compound between them, or three layers of gypsum board can be applied to one side.
- LP FlameBlock Fire-Rated Sheathing: This product meets code requirements for fire-resistant construction and can provide faster and easier installation than assemblies that use exterior gypsum and structural panels. It also offers added design flexibility by reducing overall wall thickness.
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Frequently asked questions
A one-hour fire-rated wall is designed to withstand fire for at least an hour before the wall is compromised.
Materials used in a one-hour fire-rated wall include gypsum panels, drywall, and insulation.
The purpose of a one-hour fire-rated wall is to provide a basic level of protection, allowing occupants to evacuate and fire services to respond.
























