With advancements in construction technology, cavity barriers have become a standard element of the building process. They are used extensively by builders and installers to enhance the thermal performance as well as fire resistance of a building. Considering the importance of cavity barriers, it is essential to understand the regulatory standards prescribed by the authorities. Knowledge of these standards helps one to make an informed decision while buying cavity barriers for a building. Testing Cavity Barriers for Insulation The primary objective of installing cavity barriers is to achieve a thermal break. Thus, it is essential to test the cavity barrier for insulation properties before installing it. Look for the manufacturing material of a cavity barrier to understand its thermal performance. Check the R-value of the raw material. This value gives a fair idea of the thermal conductivity of the material. Polystyrene is a good insulator and is used extensively in the manufacturing of cavity closers. Reputed manufacturers typically use chemically processed derivatives of polystyrene to enhance thermal efficiency. Also, one must check the installation process for the cavity barrier. A good barrier is easy to install and is flexible enough to accommodate into different shapes. Strike out barriers that require screws, adhesives or complex tools for fitting. The installation process should save time by eliminating the complex process of timber dummy. Compatibility is another factor to consider. It should easily accept window systems of different sizes. Fire Performance of Cavity Barriers Cavity barriers should not act as a transit system for smoke and fire. It should have fire resistance property. According to building regulations in the UK, any cavity near the edges or perimeter of a fire-prone element should be treated with a 100% fire-resistant cavity barrier. The only exceptions to this rule are cavities on the floor and the roof where the element should have 30-minute fire resistance property. To enhance the fire-resistance property of cavity barriers, some manufacturers add glass or fibre elements. It is important to ensure that the barrier is tested and approved for fire resistance by the concerned authority.
