Which term describes the material installed in framing cavities to slow the spread of fire for a period?

Which term describes the material installed in framing cavities to slow the spread of fire for a period?

• A. Insulation
• B. Vapor barrier
• C. Draftstop
• D. Caulking

Answer: (C)

Fire safety in framing cavities relies on interrupting the path a fire can take through concealed spaces. Draftstops are placed in wall, floor, or ceiling cavities to partition those spaces and slow the spread of flames for a period, giving occupants time to escape and responders a chance to intervene. They act as a temporary barrier in the hidden areas of the structure. Insulation is for reducing heat transfer and improving energy efficiency, not specifically to slow fire spread. A vapor barrier controls moisture movement, not fire. Caulking seals gaps to stop air leaks, but it isn’t designed to resist fire or slow its spread through concealed spaces.

Fire safety in framing cavities relies on interrupting the path a fire can take through concealed spaces. Draftstops are placed in wall, floor, or ceiling cavities to partition those spaces and slow the spread of flames for a period, giving occupants time to escape and responders a chance to intervene. They act as a temporary barrier in the hidden areas of the structure.

Insulation is for reducing heat transfer and improving energy efficiency, not specifically to slow fire spread. A vapor barrier controls moisture movement, not fire. Caulking seals gaps to stop air leaks, but it isn’t designed to resist fire or slow its spread through concealed spaces.