What should be the key focus when selecting firestop materials?

When selecting firestop materials, the key focus should be on their durability and performance under fire exposure. This is critical because firestop materials are specifically designed to contain or slow the spread of fire, smoke, and hot gases in fire-rated assemblies. The effectiveness of these materials directly impacts the overall safety of a building and its occupants. High-quality firestop materials must maintain their integrity when subjected to high temperatures, thereby preventing the passage of fire through penetrations and openings in fire-rated walls, floors, and ceilings.

The properties of these materials, such as their ability to expand when exposed to heat, forming an effective barrier, are essential for ensuring compliance with fire safety codes and standards. Therefore, selecting materials based solely on performance under fire conditions is paramount in achieving the intended fire protection design objectives.