When it comes to innovative and safe construction solutions, TRIFORCE® Open Joists stands out as a leader in fire-resistant engineered floor systems. Designed to offer superior structural integrity and improved fire safety, these open web joists combine durability and flexibility for builders seeking reliable options.
Fire is a major hazard in buildings, and it’s crucial to design structures that resist fire or allow safe evacuation in the event of an emergency. Choosing the right floor joist can significantly impact fire safety. TRIFORCE® open web joists are engineered to meet these challenges while offering unmatched performance.
Why Choose TRIFORCE® Open Web Joists for Fire Safety?
Comparison with Traditional I-Joists
The TRIFORCE® open web joist offers distinct advantages over traditional I-joists in fire performance, thanks to its solid wood construction and resistance to rapid heat failure. Here’s how:
- 1 ) The OSB core of I-joists degrades rapidly under fire, making them vulnerable to structural failure.
- 2 ) The open design of the TRIFORCE® joist can facilitate better air circulation around the joists, which may reduce the risk of heat buildup in case of fire.
3) To meet fire-resistance standards, I-joists require costly additional protection, such as covering the entire OSB panel with gypsum. In contrast, TRIFORCE® joists meet IRC fire-protection code for unfinished ceilings with minimal additions, such as a 1/2″ gypsum board or a 19/32″ structural panel applied to the trimmable ends.
Some of you may wonder if spray-on fire retardants can be used as an alternative to these solutions. However, to our knowledge, no testing has been conducted by the manufacturers of spray-on fire retardants on TRIFORCE® open web joists. For dependable fire protection and compliance with regulations, we recommend sticking to proven methods, such as adding gypsum or structural panels.
Open Basement Ceilings: A Perfect Match for TRIFORCE® Joists
Unfinished basement ceilings are becoming increasingly popular for modern homeowners. Here’s why TRIFORCE® open web joists are ideal for this application:
- Allows greater flexibility for future modifications: Open ceilings allow easy access for updates, additions or repairs to plumbing, electrical, HVAC or other systems. No demolition is required.
- Cost savings: If no finishing is added to the ceiling, there are no material costs or installation time.
- Gives more height to the ceiling: An unfinished ceiling enhances headroom, creating a more open and spacious feel in the basement.
- Industrial style: Open basement ceilings are increasingly popular, providing a sleek, industrial style that appeals to many homeowners.
- Customizable: Homeowners can later finish the ceiling to suit their personal style, making it a great option for DIY enthusiasts.
TRIFORCE® Open Web Joists: Certified Fire Performance:
To ensure public safety, TRIFORCE® open web joists comply with both US and Canadian standards under IBC/IRC (International Residential Code). They meet the 2018/2015 IRC fire performance requirements for unfinished wood floors and ceilings (Section R302.13).
Why is Certification Important?
Certified construction materials ensure:
1) Higher quality and reliability.Greater trust and preference among customers.
Rigorous independent testing by organizations like INTERTEK (SpecID 35685).
International recognition of compliance.
- Higher quality and reliability.
- Rigorous independent testing by organizations like INTERTEK (SpecID 35685).
- International recognition of compliance.
- Greater trust and preference among customers.
TRIFORCE® certified open-joist floor assemblies offer fire resistance of 45, 60, 90 minutes and 120 minutes. Download our fire-resistant solutions brochure. for detailed specifications.
How an engineered floor system such as TRIFORCE® Joists Excel in Fire Conditions
Unlike plated trusses, which rely on metal connector plates that can buckle and detach under high heat, TRIFORCE® Open Web Joists eliminate this risk by using a glued-finger jointed design without metal plates. This ensures greater structural integrity during a fire, as there are no components prone to rapid failure due to heat.
The adhesive used in the construction of TRIFORCE® Open Web Joists is resorcinol-based, which has a significantly higher combustion temperature than wood. This helps maintain the integrity of the joists under fire conditions, as the glue is less likely to degrade or fail compared to the wood itself.
Fire safety is a top priority in modern construction, and TRIFORCE® open web joists stand out as a dependable solution.
They offer a range of benefits, including:
– Enhanced occupant safety during emergencies.
– Prevention of fire spread through structural integrity.
– Compliance with fire safety regulations, such as IRC standards.
– Cost savings for building owners due to reduced need for additional fireproofing materials.
Discover the full potential of TRIFORCE® open web joists. Download our spec guide:
today to see why they’re the leading choice for engineered floor systems and fire safety.
