File:Firewall construction.jpg

Summary
Firewalls, protruding THROUGH a roof, with sheet metal flashing on top to preserve the building envelope, separating a building into separate parts. Firewalls are constructed of concrete or concrete blocks, in such a manner as to obtain a fire-resistance rating, as well as to ensure that if there is structural collapse as a result of a fire on one side, this collapse cannot carry over to the other side. Codewise, one may thus reduce the area, as if each segment is a separate building, to avoid the cost of having to install a sprinkler system. Penetrants must be run in such a way as to avoid damage to a firewall. Firestops in firewalls typically have to achieve T-Ratings equivalent to the fire-resistance rating of the wall.