When performing firestop installations, what is required if there is point contact between the penetrating item and the surface?

In situations involving firestop installations, ensuring that there is a proper seal around openings where penetrations occur is critical for maintaining fire and smoke barriers. When there is point contact between the penetrating item—such as a conduit, pipe, or cable—and the surface, it is important to apply a bead of sealant to prevent smoke and fire from passing through any gaps.

Applying a 1/4-inch bead of sealant around the penetrating item is necessary under these circumstances. This size bead provides sufficient coverage to ensure that the sealant can effectively fill any small gaps that would allow the spread of fire or smoke, fulfilling both safety and code requirements. By maintaining a 1/4-inch bead, installers can achieve a controlled and effective barrier that addresses the needs of firestop systems outlined by applicable building codes and standards.

Other sizes of beads, whether smaller or larger, do not provide the same effectiveness. A smaller bead may not create a robust enough seal, while a larger bead could be excessive, leading to waste of material or difficulty in achieving a neat installation. Therefore, the choice of a 1/4-inch bead is standard practice that balances effectiveness with practicality.