What is the Best Fire-Resistant Building Material?

Avoid a Fire Disaster with Concrete

5,709 structure fires were attended to by Fire and Rescue NSW between 2017 and 2018(*1). How would you feel if one of those structures was your home, a relative or a friend’s home, or your business? What is at risk of being destroyed? What livelihoods and lives are at risk? Use the best fire-resistant building material. Not only will concrete not burn in a fire, but it is also strong and will maintain structural integrity. By choosing reputable suppliers of concrete, you are also doing your part for the environment.

Why Concrete?

All structures are at risk of fire. A very simple choice at the beginning of every project is to choose concrete as a building material. When a fire breaks out, maintaining the structural integrity of the building is essential. If used structurally, firefighters will have safe passage into and out of the building in order to extinguish the fire.

Concrete naturally has high heat absorption. This is why it is so commonly used in structures designed for passive temperature control. Concrete also doesn’t succumb to rot or rust. It doesn’t combust in a fire or add to the fire-load. It increases in temperature very slowly (particularly when compared to timber or steel).

• Resist the spread of internal fire.
• Reduce the amount of toxic gasses released – and limit their spread.
• Provide safe access for emergency responders to access and exit the building.
• Emission-free – won’t emit toxic gases, smoke or chemicals.
• Low carbon footprint (particularly when you choose recycled concrete).
• 100% recyclable.
• Excellent security and reduced air and dust infiltration.

What Type of Concrete?

When you’re sourcing concrete, what are the most important points to consider?

• First and foremost – check the building material standard/s for your building and building location.
• Liaise with a local concrete expert. Through collaboration, you can obtain the quality or type of concrete material you need for your application. This ensures you get the right concrete material to uphold your legal building requirements.
• For most home projects, recycled concrete products are ideal. They provide fire protection for a lower price and are sustainable.

Concrete Uses

In addition to structural material in buildings, concrete blocks and panels have a myriad of applications. Concrete blocks are ideal for compartment bays in industrial sites.
Concrete is used in residential, commercial and industrial sites. Due to its fire safety features, concrete is ideal for use in bushfire prone areas.
When used in tunnels or similar structures, concrete prevents the spread of the fire and maintains structural integrity.

When looking at residential, commercial or industrial building materials, give concrete some serious thought. It is economical, has a long lifespan, is recyclable and provides excellent protection and strength. Concrete recyclers are being turned to more and more for concrete. It is more affordable, excellent quality and sustainable. Lower the carbon footprint of your next building project without exuberant costs.

Contact A1 Concrete Recyclers in Campbelltown on 0433 958 977. For more information on services available visit

References

*1.  Fire and Rescue NSW. Annual Report 2017-2018:[188 p.]. www.fire.nsw.gov.au/gallery/files/pdf/annual_reports/annual_report_2017_18.pdf.