Once buzzwords within the building industry, phrases such as “zero net energy,” “sustainable energy,” and “energy conservation,” are now commonplace.

For years, Portland and gypsum cement-based plasters have been used to produce fire resistant walls.

Although smoke detectors are essential for safety and mandated by the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association), traditional, bulky models mounted on ceilings or walls in high end residential homes can interrupt – even ruin – the overall design and feel of a space.

One of the many seminars this year, “Tame the Flame: A Close Look at Exterior Wall Flammability with a Focus on NFPA 285” will be presented by Dwayne Sloan on March 28, from 8:00-9:30 a.m.

An engineering evaluation by Priest & Associates Consulting LLC has determined DensElement Barrier System can replace exterior gypsum sheathing in approved EIFS designs.

On June 7, the NFPA Fire Test Committee is set to vote on a revision that would effectively change the NFPA Standard 285 (multi-story fire test for exterior walls).