TechInstructor
Member
I have questions as to where fire block caulk is required around pipe penetrations. Can someone answer yes or no to the following locations:
* joists?
* blocking (between joists, over basement load-bearing wall)?
* subfloor (from basement to 1st floor and/or 1st floor to attic)?
* sheathing for roof?
My next question concerns compatibility with Pex. I have 3M Fire Block caulk. It was recommended by the salesman at the plumbing store (not a big box store) as what the plumbers use.
Viega Pex says this in their literature:
I can't find any list of these fire stopping compounds at the Viega site and the 3M Fire Block doesn't say any of these three words, "waterbased, acrylic or latex." I guess I could call Viega and/or 3M to find out more. If the 3M isn't compatible, does anyone have a suggestions as to what will work with both Pex and PVC (my DWV piping)?
* joists?
* blocking (between joists, over basement load-bearing wall)?
* subfloor (from basement to 1st floor and/or 1st floor to attic)?
* sheathing for roof?
My next question concerns compatibility with Pex. I have 3M Fire Block caulk. It was recommended by the salesman at the plumbing store (not a big box store) as what the plumbers use.
Viega Pex says this in their literature:
When penetrations must be sealed for air infiltration purposes, there are several options available. A good grade of silicone, acrylic, or siliconized acrylic caulking (DO NOT use oil-base caulks), most of the canned expanding foams, and open- or closed-cell pipe insulation are good sealing materials and may be used in direct contact with PEX tubing. .... There are a number of fire stopping compounds readily available that have been listed for use with PEX tubing. These compounds come in standard caulking tubes and are identified as waterbased, acrylic or latex. Consult the compound manufacturers’ instructions for proper application.
I can't find any list of these fire stopping compounds at the Viega site and the 3M Fire Block doesn't say any of these three words, "waterbased, acrylic or latex." I guess I could call Viega and/or 3M to find out more. If the 3M isn't compatible, does anyone have a suggestions as to what will work with both Pex and PVC (my DWV piping)?