Nichiha, ClarkDietrich, and TRUFAST Walls Unite for Safety
New wall system meets NFPA 285 standard and streamlines specification with a fully tested, code-compliant assembly
JOHNS CREEK, Ga. - Nichiha USA, ClarkDietrich, and TRUFAST Walls have accomplished a significant milestone in fire safety with the completion of NFPA 285-25 fire testing. This testing is critical in evaluating the efficacy of an exterior wall assembly that integrates Nichiha's premium fiber cement panels together with the components from ClarkDietrich and TRUFAST.
The thorough test involved a 30-minute burn period, during which data was collected across different points of the wall assembly. This setup featured an innovative 1 1/4-inch ventilated cavity that was installed over 4 inches of polyisocyanurate continuous insulation aimed at measuring real-world fire performance under extreme conditions.
The results of these tests are pivotal. "Passing the NFPA 285 test is a significant achievement in fire-safe wall design," said Max Rietschier, Technical Services Manager at Nichiha USA. He emphasized that the partnership between Nichiha's Architectural Wall Panels (AWP), ClarkDietrich's ProChannel™ CI sub-framing, and TRUFAST Walls' TubeSeal™ insulation fasteners has produced a wall assembly that excels in fire performance while also embracing the advantages of ventilated rainscreen design and energy efficiency.
Components of the Commercial Wall System
This innovative wall system is composed of three essential elements:
Nichiha Fiber Cement Cladding
Nichiha: Offers durable and environmentally friendly premium fiber cement cladding available in various colors, textures, and finishes that meet the highest aesthetic standards.
ClarkDietrich's ProChannel CI System
ClarkDietrich: Provides a robust and versatile sub-framing platform, ensuring structural reliability and allowing for simple installation over continuous insulation.
TRUFAST Walls' TubeSeal Insulation Fasteners
TRUFAST Walls: Features TubeSeal insulation fasteners with an innovative sealing design that prevents water intrusion through penetrations.
This collaboration promotes superior control of air and water infiltration while minimizing thermal bridging. It ensures the integrity of continuous insulation all while complying with the NFPA 285 standard—the benchmark for fire safety among exterior wall assemblies with combustible components.
Ryan Reed, Category Manager for Core Framing Products at ClarkDietrich, highlighted the essence of teamwork in this endeavor. "Collaboration is at the core of innovation," he noted. The joint efforts of Nichiha and TRUFAST Walls to deliver a fully tested and NFPA 285-compliant wall system reflect a shared desire for safer, smarter building solutions.
Max Rietschier reinforced this sentiment by stating that Nichiha's ongoing partnerships demonstrate a commitment to advancing high-performance façade systems. Architects and developers can confidently incorporate Nichiha wall systems into their designs, knowing that they adhere to stringent safety and energy efficiency standards.
Conclusion: Ensuring Building Safety
The development of the fire-tested rainscreen wall assembly by Nichiha, ClarkDietrich, and TRUFAST Walls sets a new standard in safety and performance for architectural designs. By leveraging innovative materials and expert collaboration, this solution not only promises durability but also aligns with contemporary architectural needs for sustainable and secure building outcomes.
About NICHIHA
Nichiha USA, a subsidiary of Nichiha Corporation, is a leading manufacturer of high-functioning cladding for commercial and residential applications. Since its founding in Japan in 1956, Nichiha has grown significantly and now employs over 3,000 individuals across multiple locations worldwide, including a key manufacturing facility in Georgia.
About ClarkDietrich
ClarkDietrich is recognized as the largest manufacturer of a comprehensive range of drywall studs and accessories, along with structural studs and joists, in North America. They provide quality manufacturing and customer-focused service to support both commercial and residential construction endeavors.
About ALTENLOH, BRINCK & CO. US, Inc.
ALTENLOH, BRINCK & CO. US, INC. offers engineered attachment solutions under the SPAX® and TRUFAST® brands. With a commitment to quality and innovation, the company operates from a 200,000-square-foot facility in Ohio, serving the construction market with precision-engineered products.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the NFPA 285 standard?
The NFPA 285 standard is crucial for assessing the fire performance of exterior wall assemblies that contain combustible materials, ensuring their safety and effectiveness in real-world conditions.
How does this collaboration enhance wall assembly performance?
The collaboration combines advanced materials and engineering solutions, delivering a wall assembly that excels in fire safety, energy efficiency, and design flexibility.
What materials are used in the new wall assembly?
The new wall assembly uses Nichiha's fiber cement panels, ClarkDietrich's ProChannel CI system, and TRUFAST's TubeSeal insulation fasteners, each contributing unique benefits.
What are the energy efficiency benefits of this system?
This wall assembly minimizes thermal bridging and air infiltration, ensuring that buildings remain energy efficient and reduce heating and cooling costs over time.
How can architects utilize this new wall system?
Architects can confidently integrate this wall system into their designs, knowing it meets stringent market standards for fire safety, efficiency, and aesthetic choice.
