Firerated

Firerated is a designation applied to building materials and assemblies that have been tested and certified to resist fire exposure for a specified period, thereby contributing to passive fire protection in buildings. The term is often written as fire-rated or fire-resistance-rated, and may appear in product data sheets, construction drawings, and building codes.

Ratings are determined by standardized fire-resistance tests such as ASTM E119 (United States), NFPA 251, EN 13501-2 (Europe), or UL/ULC and CSA equivalents. The result is a numerical rating expressed in minutes (for example 60 minutes) or, in some regions, hours, indicating how long the assembly can withstand fire exposure under test conditions.

Common fire-rated components include walls and floor/ceiling assemblies, doors, glazing, ducts, and penetrations sealed with firestop materials. Ratings are applied to assemblies rather than individual materials; the performance depends on the entire system and proper installation.

Installation and maintenance are important; to preserve the rating, components must be installed and penetrations sealed as tested. Modifications, improper fastening, or damaged seals can compromise performance. Aging, moisture, impact damage, and certain chemical exposures may also affect fire resistance.

Note: "firerated" may appear in branding or marketing, but the rating rests on standardized tests and certification by recognized authorities. It should not be assumed to guarantee safety in all fire scenarios; local code requirements still apply.