Fire protection only works when it’s applied correctly.

Once structural steel is in place, fireproofing becomes a critical next step. Fireproofing is typically a sprayed or applied material that coats steel beams and columns, helping protect them from heat and allowing the structure to maintain its strength during a fire. While it’s often out of sight once construction continues, its performance depends on careful application and verification early on.

What Fireproofing Inspections Verify

Our inspectors verify fireproofing installation throughout the process, focusing on key factors such as:

• thickness of the applied material
• bond strength to the steel surface
• material density and consistency
• application conditions, including temperature and weather

Testing Fireproofing Performance

Before full production begins, bond strength testing is performed to confirm that the applied material adheres as specified and matches the approved submittals.

As installation continues, dry density testing is typically performed on a representative steel member for each member type, per floor or roof area. These tests help confirm that the fireproofing material has been applied at the proper consistency and will perform as intended under fire exposure.

Verifying Thickness and Coverage

To verify thickness, in-place depth measurements are taken at multiple locations on each test area. The number of individual readings depends on the project requirements and applicable testing standards established at the start of the inspection program.

Identifying Issues Before They’re Concealed

If deficiencies are identified, they are documented and reported immediately to the Owner’s site representative and the Contractor so corrections can be made without delaying construction. Addressing issues early helps ensure compliance while keeping the project moving forward.

Why Early Verification Matters

Fireproofing inspections help confirm that a critical layer of protection is in place before it is covered or concealed. When this work is verified properly, the structure is better prepared to perform safely when it matters most.

Build on Our Foundation

From the Ground Up is a series exploring the engineering and materials testing processes that support safe construction across Central Virginia.

Explore more in the series

• Structural Steel Inspections