Decoding fire resistant lumber: Things worth knowing before investing!

Even a small fire accident can cause considerable damage to a home, and unfortunately, there is no full-proof means to prevent fire mishaps. Wood continues to remain one of the most used materials in the building and construction industries, and untreated wood, as you may know, is quick to catch fire. In recent years, experts, architects and interior experts have been stressing on better building practices and use of materials that don’t catch fire easily or can at least buy time during a mishap. One of the options is to swap traditional wood for fire resistant lumber, and if you want to consider this as an option, we have a few pointers that are worth knowing.

Important aspects of fire-resistant lumber

As the name indicates, fire resistant lumber is resistant to fire. This doesn’t mean that the material is averse to fire, but it simply will not catch fire as easily as natural wood. The extensive use of fire-resistant lumber for building homes can help in preventing extensive damage caused by fire, if one happens. There are many vendors who sell this kind of material, and the lumber is tested considerably well before being certified or labeled as fire-resistant.

Making the shift

If you are thinking of using fire resistant lumber, you should know that many states have building practices and norms that state the use of material as a must. Now, it is important to understand that this kind of material comes for a price, so you want to first check the expenses. Also, not all vendors or sellers who claim to offer fire resistant lumber are honest, so always go for a supplier that can be relied on.

Where to use fire resistant lumber?

Ideally, fire resistant lumber should be used in place of regular wood wherever possible, but if you have budget constraints, some initial homework can be handy. Find areas of the house that are more prone to fire accidents, such as the kitchen. If the living room has a fireplace, you may consider to use such material for these rooms and spaces, as well. Your architect should have a better idea of what kind of fire-resistant wood you should be using and how you can do better for the given budget by optimizing your choices.

Technically, you cannot completely prevent a fire from happening, but if you have the time to act and respond to a mishap, losses can be reduced.