Whenever you have a project that call for FR lumber (pressure treated fire retardant lumber) here's news you can really use. We saved a hotel project in Reno, Nevada where the framing contractor used regular dimensional lumber on four stories of framing including the sheer wall. The building inspector noted that it should have been FR and was NOT – so no CO until it was all torn down and replaced with FR. Our recommendation was to simply apply two coats of Contego on the existing wood. Not only did it save them from a $1.2 million loss, it led to an entirely new standard that will displace FR for all of their designs in all markets and over all brands. Here's how Contego compares to FR and delivers HUGE advantages to the architect, GC, framing sub and property owner:
Our data on dimensional lumber FAR exceeds the stats for any FR on the market. We have LOWER flame spread and smoke production (0x0) – FR doesn't come close.
We are neither toxic nor carcinogenic (read the MSDS on any FR product). Note that NONE of the FR lumber manufacturers offer their MSDS on line as we do. Get some and read them and you'll see why. FR is so bad that you're NOT supposed to burn the scraps, although people always do.
We also offer far better thermal resistance.
FR destroys the lectins in the wood causing massive loss of structural integrity in as little as 2 years. (See USDA studies – links are below)
FR also dissolves whatever attachments you use – screws, nails, hangars, etc. unless they're stainless steel. Think about that one.
On the job, FR causes logistics problems because it is special order. If you run short, you're in a bind. Dimensional lumber (and Contego) are readily available, making the project scalable.
Last, but certainly not least - our product on dimensional lumber plus the labor to apply it is considerably less expensive than FR.
FR = a weaker, inferior, less fire resistant assembly that is GUARANTEED to fail. That's why Hilton, Hyatt, Sheraton and a growing number of leading hotel chains have changed their specifications away from FR wood to Contego on dimensional lumber.
