Joint System Splicing – Best Practice

Condition: Multiple manufacturer’s products in the same construction assembly

In line splice conditions:  
ASTM E1966 section 7.3 specifically requires a splice that is either a “Factory” or “Manufacturer” or both if applicable for a fire tested material. If the splice is the same for both applications, only one splice is required. A splice is a starting and stopping point that meets and requires a continuous connection. This is reasonably achievable with the same materials on both sides of the splice, but it can be challenging where two different materials meet at the splice.

When a new installation meets an older installation there can be challenges. One challenge may be that the construction materials are different at this location. Another challenge is that even with a single manufacturer, the older product may have been discontinued or it no longer meets current codes and standards for the new construction. This may require materials to be spliced that are not of the same shape or materials. This is further complicated when two or more different products are manufactured and tested by two or more different companies with separate fire tests and listings.

Always try to splice with a single tested and listed assembly from a single manufacturer. When that is not feasible it is best to try to create the same construction condition where the fire resistive materials meet. Contact the different manufacturers to inform them that a non-conforming splice condition will be present with a junction of their respective materials. Ask them for recommendations and potential collaboration for a solution. If it is possible to remove the material from the existing building and replace it with the new material being used in the new construction, that is a preferable solution.

Download and print this as a .pdf -> Joint System Splicing – Best Practice

Learn more, Fire Rated Expansion Joint Assemblies: Codes, Standards, Inspection Types

 

Request FREE, in-person, firestop training from the IFC.