Guidance for designers, builders and building control on installation and inspection of cavity barriers
In recent times there has been significant interest, scrutiny and debate from stakeholders about the risk of fires in timber-framed buildings, with one particular area of concern being the unseen spread of fire within wall cavities and roof voids. This report describes findings from 21 fire experiments which evaluated fire spread in cavities where sheathing materials were included on the structural side. The work showed that properly fitted cavity closers were effective at inhibiting the spread of fire, but that any discontinuities in cavity barriers had a significant adverse effect on performance. The report provides guidance for designers, builders and building control on best practice in the installation and inspection of cavity barriers.
Explore NHBC Foundation
About NHBC Foundation Research
Delivering high-quality research and guidance to help the house-building industry address the challenges of delivering 21st-century new homes
Access NHBC Foundation Publications
Access and download NHBC Foundation’s full portfolio of publications and practical guides, covering primary research, research reviews and documents informing the debate
Latest NHBC Foundation News
View the latest NHBC Foundation news, articles and Foundation facts showcasing the most recent publications and reporting on progress with new research projects
Technical disclaimer
The information provided or contained on this website has been produced by NHBC for research and guidance purposes through the “NHBC Foundation”. It has not been created or intended for distribution or use outside of the purpose for which it was drafted. The information contained on this website does not constitute advice and is not to be relied upon by any third party. Any third party who chooses to rely upon the information contained on this website shall do so entirely at their own risk and NHBC accepts no duty of care or liability, however caused, in connection with its use or reliance by any third party. It is not updated or maintained.
This website may contain links to websites operated by third parties. Third party websites are not under our control, and we are not responsible for the content of any third-party website, or any link contained in a third-party website. NHBC do not review, approve, monitor, endorse, warrant, or make any representations with respect to third party websites. Any third party who chooses to rely upon the information contained on a third-party website shall do so entirely at their own risk. NHBC accepts no duty of care or liability, however caused, in connection with its use or reliance by any third party.