When it comes to construction projects, there is a common misconception that all fire rated stone mineral wool board thicknesses should be the same, but that isn’t the case. The thickness of your steel has an impact on how thick the board needs to be, which in turn plays a critical role in both cost and fire protection. Here’s why steel section size is so important and how making the right choices can save you money.
Thicker Steel, Thinner Board
The general rule is: the thicker the steel, the thinner the fire rated board required. Thinner steel, while often cheaper initially, will require a thicker fire rated board, which can drive up overall costs. Investing more initially in thicker steel with a greater section size can actually reduce the need for excessive fire protection materials, balancing the budget effectively.
Minimise Fire Protection Costs
By choosing steel with a greater thickness, you can reduce the fire protection requirements significantly. For instance, using a small steel with a 3mm section size could potentially, nearly double the thickness of the fire protection required. This adds complexity and cost, so it really is essential to assess the thickness of your steel carefully from the start.
One Size Board Doesn’t Fit All
Selecting the right board thickness for your steel is not a straightforward task. A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work here. The level of fire protection required for each project must be specified by someone with technical expertise to ensure there is no compromise on safety.
Steel Prices and Finishes
Steel prices fluctuate frequently so when prices drop, it could be the right time to buy. Cryotherm keep an eye on prices and advise customers accordingly. If you would like to receive information about the right time to buy, you can request to be added to our newsletter by e-mailing, enquiries@cryotherm.co.uk
As things stand in January 2025, galvanised steel prices have nearly halved compared to the same period last year, making it a budget-friendly option if aesthetics are not a priority. For a cleaner finish, white or coloured steel has seen a slight reduction in cost but remains higher than galvanised options.
Maximise Your Savings
- Thicker Steel = Thinner Board: Spend more on steel to save on fire protection.
- Galvanised Steel: If you’re not concerned about appearance, go for galvanised steel to save nearly half the cost.
- Structural Steel Costs: Stay updated on current market trends for potential savings.
- Right Board Thickness: Ensure the board thickness is adequate to provide the fire rating required for the steel section size.
By strategically choosing steel thickness, you could cut your project costs considerably while maintaining safety and structural integrity. Plan wisely and keep an eye on market trends for the best deals throughout the year!
If you would like to discuss the technical details of your project, for best advice, contact the Cryotherm team today.
