When we think of vapor retarders, we typically think of them performing one essential function – stopping water vapor. While this is an important feature, some applications may call for vapor retarders with additional benefits in addition to their core functionality. Take Americover’s 6 Mil Dura Skrim® Fire Retardant Reinforced Plastic Sheeting – not only is it a class A vapor retarder that reduces moisture permeability, but it is also fire retardant.
Purpose of a Class A Vapor Retarder
Class A vapor retarders work in a number of ways, ranging from keeping ground moisture out of a space to controlling indoor air quality, improving energy efficiency and more. According to ASTM E1745 standards, class A vapor retarders must provide a minimum 45 lb per inch tensile strength, and 2200 grams puncture resistance.
For example, you may be trying to prevent ground moisture from reaching a crawl space or wooden elements of a building. Laying down a reliable vapor retarder can help ensure that water in the topsoil doesn’t evaporate and damage your structure.
Related Article: What is a Class A Vapor Barrier Material?
Purpose of Fire Retardancy
When it comes to fire safety, it’s often necessary to incorporate flame retardant materials into your build. Specialty plastic products such as reinforced fire retardant plastic sheeting are purpose-built to meet this need.
Fire retardants are meant to help slow the spread of a fire, potentially dampening the damage, and giving any occupants additional time to get to safety. If a fire were to break out it serves as a precautionary measure. Whether at a job site or at a growing facility, the temporary walls or plant dividers between sections of the area are contained by fire retardant plastic sheeting. In this scenario, a fire retardant material would effectively help shield other parts of the building that are still vulnerable to fire, but have not ignited yet as opposed to fueling the fire causing it to quickly spread.
Related Article: Fire Retardant Plastic Sheeting: What Are the Different Fire Ratings for Plastic Sheeting?
Different Construction Applications for Fire Retardant Class A Vapor Retarder
Fire retardant class A vapor retarders can be used in a variety of different ways. Because they provide the best in flame and vapor retardation, their most common uses include construction applications. Fire retardant plastic sheeting is common for projects like:
- Floor covers, dust partitions, and cleanroom enclosures
- Industrial packaging
- Walls, ceilings, and roofing systems
Why Choose Fire Retardant Reinforced Plastic Sheeting
Reinforced fire retardant plastic sheeting is a great choice when you have to use multifunctional sheeting on a job site. Polyester scrim and two layers of puncture-resistant polyethylene film enhance rip and tear resistance.
And because it not only shields from water damage thanks to its class A vapor retarder classification but also meets building and safety codes requiring flame retardant materials, durable fire retardant plastic sheeting is an ideal choice for a wide range of construction scenarios in residential & commercial buildings, schools, and government buildings.
Trusted by Builders, Growers, and Distributors
Americover is the smart source for class A vapor retarders and other types of plastic and polyethylene sheeting. Trusted by contractors and distributors across the construction and agriculture industries, our American-made products combine reliability with quality and innovation.
As an Americover customer, you will receive the personalized support of a dedicated account manager to simplify the ordering process and ensure the best solution for every project. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff is here to answer your questions and fulfill orders Monday-Friday from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. If you would like to speak with a representative, call us at 760-388-6294 or contact us.