Does Fire Treated Wood Meet Building Code Requirements?
When it comes to meeting building codes, fire treated wood (FRTW) is often a required material—especially in commercial, multifamily, and public structures. But not all FRTW products are created equal, and understanding how they meet specific code requirements is essential for any builder or architect.
What Building Codes Apply to FRTW?
Fire treated wood must comply with specific standards set forth by building authorities such as the International Building Code (IBC) and National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). These standards define acceptable flame spread ratings, testing procedures, and use cases for FRTW in construction.
- IBC compliance: Requires FRTW to meet the ASTM E84 standard with a flame spread index of 25 or less and no evidence of progressive combustion.
- NFPA standards: Often align with IBC, with additional considerations for fire performance in various occupancy types.
Where Is FRTW Required by Code?
FRTW is typically required in areas where enhanced fire resistance is needed, such as:
- Corridors and stairwells in multifamily or commercial buildings
- Exterior walls in urban or wildfire-prone regions
- Roof sheathing and structural framing in certain assemblies
Using untreated or incorrectly treated wood in these zones can lead to failed inspections or worse—unsafe structures.
FRTW Code Compliance Checklist
To ensure fire treated wood meets code requirements:
- Confirm the treatment meets ASTM E84 testing standards
- Use FRTW only in approved applications (not in contact with soil or where exposed to moisture long-term)
- Request certification documents and code evaluation reports from your supplier
Trust Biewer for Code-Compliant FRTW
At FireTreatedWood.com, our fire treated wood is rigorously tested and certified to meet IBC and NFPA codes. Whether you’re working on new construction or a retrofit, we provide documentation and expert guidance to ensure full compliance.