In every application, the importance of fire stopping - sealing any gaps in fire resistant constructions - is vital to maximize its ability to save life and property. Such gaps include service penetrations through walls and floors, either due to poor workmanship or left for structural movement.

Concealed spaces or cavities in the construction of a building provide ready route for smoke and flame spread for voids in, above and below the construction of a building, e.g. wall, floors, ceilings, roofs and facades. If the spread is not controlled, it presents a greater danger than would a more obvious weakness in the fabric of the building.

In terms of gap sealing, it can be:

• acrylic sealant: water based, more prone to weather/climate conditions
• intumescent sealant: expand to fill a cavity when subjected to extreme heat, desirable for wide gaps.
• silicone based: cater for movement/ external use, more flexible and lasting.