2009 International Building Code Allows Expanded Uses of FRP Composites
The revised section of the 2009 International Building Code (IBC), adopted again in subsequent versions, expands the proper uses of Fiberglass Reinforced Polymer (FRP) composites for building construction. This allows architects, specifiers, and building owners to understand the benefits of FRP as a viable product.
Most U.S. cities, counties, and states that establish official building codes for their jurisdictions will adopt sections of the code as written or sometimes add or subtract language to suit particular needs and preferences. For years, FRP has been used on buildings but had limited uses without uniform code recognition.
Often, FRP has been approved only on a case-by-case basis by local building authorities and has not really been addressed in building codes. In conjunction with the Architectural Division of the American Composites Manufacturers Association (ACMA), the largest trade association serving the composites industry, Architectural Fiberglass, Inc.™ has made great strides with the introduction of the properties and uses of FRP to the International Code Council (ICC).
The ICC publishes the International Building Code (IBC), which is the primary model for building codes used throughout the United States. Before 2009, FRP products were not recognized in the IBC, falling into the general category of Plastics. This limited the use of FRP on building facades.
ACMA’s Architectural Division developed and submitted a code change proposal to the ICC that added a specific section for FRP Composites under the Plastics chapter. The proposed section addressed several end-use applications and called for specific testing requirements and regulations for the FRP industry.
The ICC approved and adopted ACMA’s proposal, and the new FRP code changes became effective with the 2009 IBC. This code change was a significant step towards recognition of FRP composites by the prescriptive building codes of the U.S.A.
In the past, some manufacturers have been known to cut costs by using less expensive raw materials and mediocre manufacturing practices to gain a pricing advantage. The addition to the 2009 code and subsequent revisions sets a bar for all manufacturers to follow, validating FRP as a legitimate construction material.
Manufacturers that abide are held accountable to follow stringent manufacturing requirements that result in products complying with current code requirements. Architectural Fiberglass, Inc. has undergone the necessary testing and fulfilled the flame spread requirements.
Section 2612 of the code falls within Chapter 26, entitled “Plastics,” and spells out specific tests that must be passed for multi-story use, radiant heat, flame spread, and smoke development.
The code makes two exceptions to the general Plastics code requirements. The first exception applies to the uses of FRP as building ornamentation and its flame spread index requirements, based on the percentage of the FRP material on the building substrate.
The code requires FRP to be fire retardant and to be installed directly to a noncombustible substrate or to be separated from the exterior wall by code-approved fire blocking materials.
The second exception recognizes that FRP material can now be used on buildings at a height above 40 feet in a manner consistent with noncombustible materials. This set of requirements provides assurance that the materials used in these applications are appropriate, fire retardant, and manufactured per rigid practices.
As a member of ACMA’s Architectural Division, AFI took an active role in the IBC Working Group to help initiate and legitimize these code changes. Recognizing the use of FRP in all phases of construction, AFI has undertaken the task of informing and educating contractors, architects, and developers about the benefits and appropriate uses of fiberglass.
For more information, contact Architectural Fiberglass, Inc.
(The above information is intended to be accurate regarding the subject matter involved. All information contained hereon is general information that should be evaluated by the local authorities to determine their applicability or suitability for your particular use. Purchaser is responsible for complying with all applicable federal, state, or local laws and regulations covering the use of the product. Information is provided without warranty of any kind, and any and all warranties, either express or implied, are disclaimed.)
