Tom's insights offer a firsthand look at how firestopping technologies are applied in real-world scenarios. Check out our interview with Tom below to learn more.
Industry Experience and Project Scope
How long have you been working in the firestop industry, and what types of projects do you typically work on?
"I have worked in the industry for 20 years, 5 in the field and 15 in the office, on a range of projects including Healthcare, Office, Residential (both woodframe and steel) and a wide range of large commercial projects."
First Impressions and Product Familiarity
Before using STI Firestop products, were you familiar with the brand? If not, how did you first learn about them?
"When I first learned about firestopping and the firestop industry, STI was the first manufacturer I used."
Installation and Performance
How do STI Firestop products compare to other firestop solutions you’ve used in terms of ease of installation, performance, and overall reliability?
"STI is my favorite as far as ease of install. The switch from Triple S to full scale LCI was the first of its kind. Performance of tooling the sealant is excellent and most importantly is their technical support which is as impactful of a solution tool as anything."
Are there specific features of STI Firestop products that stand out to you as especially beneficial for your projects?
"Because you exclusively make firestop products, you naturally seem to always have the specialty contractor in mind. Currently we’re using a lot of E-Wrap for shaft alternate solutions which is a big help to the projects we’ve installed it on."
Solving Real-World Challenges
What challenges did you face on a particular project before incorporating STI Firestop solutions? Were there any issues related to firestop systems that needed a specialized solution?
"The biggest issue I have had in the field is with compatibility with certain sealants and piping materials. For example, there are firestop products that aren’t compatible with CPVC piping* which we see a lot in our area which is used for sprinkler piping and a variety of laboratory waste/vent piping. We’ve never seen compatibility issues or warnings with STI’s products which gives us confidence for whatever we encounter on the project."
Can you describe a time when STI Firestop products helped resolve a difficult or complex situation on a project?
"Many years ago, STI developed a solution where their composite sheet was able to enclose exposed steel in an elevator at Green River Community College. At the time, there was no product that could reactively accept the challenge of non-fireproofed steel."
Project Spotlights
Can you walk us through a specific project where STI Firestop products were used? What was the scope of the project, and why were STI products selected?
"Seattle Children’s Forest B. It was chosen because I knew there would be a need for a variety of products, multiple needs for technical support and a documentation platform. STI was able to accommodate each of these needs."
How did the installation process go? Was there anything about STI’s products that made the installation easier or more efficient?
"The installation of STI products was smooth. LCI’s (SpecSeal LCI Intumescent Sealant) ability to accomplish all trades and a variety of sizes for blockout penetrations was key."
How did the STI Firestop products perform in terms of firestopping, sealing, and maintaining safety standards?
"They performed to expectation. No issues or concerns. Hospitals are among the more complex Firestopping project types we have, so having the products to provide water resistant, smoke, sound, air mitigation, fire, cable management all from one manufacturer is paramount."
Support and Training
How important is manufacturer support and product training when it comes to firestop installation, in your experience?
"It’s mandatory. Product training is a valuable service, but manufacturer support is required as the market I’m in is very fluent in the requirements of firestop. So, when something isn’t installed as the system shows, this becomes a non-negotiable."
Unexpected Benefits and Final Thoughts
Were there any unexpected benefits of using STI Firestop products that you hadn’t anticipated?
"I was on a project that required the firestop spray to meet some minor air barrier restrictions. AS200 had some internal testing that was able to meet these requirements."
What advice would you give to other contractors or engineers who are considering using STI Firestop products for their projects?
"STI is well rounded and professional. They know the solutions to your questions and their experience is top tier."
What’s your key takeaway from using STI Firestop on your projects?
"I can trust them. I never feel like they’re overly conservative in their engineering judgments to the point where it makes me question their testing. I also trust their mission. As a Firestop Specialty Contractor, I fear some companies are trying to create products without my business in mind. STI seems to have people like me in the forefront of their R&D."
*STI subscribes to the Lubrizol® FBC™ System Compatible Program and has product evaluations conducted by Spears® Manufacturing to confirm CPVC compatibility.
