1. Cement board: A common wall design for fire resistance is cement board installed on steel or wood framing. Cement board is resistant to damage from moisture, mold, and insects and is non-combustible.
2. Brick veneer: A brick veneer wall has a brick outer layer and a wood or steel frame inner layer. The air space between the two layers acts as a heat barrier and provides fire resistance.
3. Plaster on metal lath: Plaster on metal lath is a traditional method of constructing walls. The metal lath provides a steel reinforcement to the plaster and creates a barrier to the spread of fire.
4. Gypsum board: Manufactured gypsum board or drywall is a commonly used interior wall material in residential and commercial construction. Its composition makes it fire-resistant and may slow down the spread of fire.
5. Concrete masonry: Concrete masonry walls comprise of concrete blocks that are durable and fire-resistant. The thickness and density of the blocks determine their fire resistance level.
6. Fire-rated drywall: Fire-rated drywall has a thicker core and is coated with a layer of gypsum that enables it to resist fire for a certain period, depending on the thickness.
7. Insulated concrete form (ICF): ICF walls are formed using insulating foam blocks that are filled with reinforced concrete. ICF walls have good fire resistance and can withstand high heat and fire.
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