5 Common Fire Barrier Mistakes Contractors Make

Fire barriers are one of the most important elements of passive fire protection, but also one of the easiest to get wrong. Across commercial, industrial, and multi-storey buildings, we see the same errors repeated on sites of every size. And while they often begin as small oversights, the consequences can be serious

In this blog, we’ll go through the five most common fire barrier mistakes contractors make – and how TBL Fire Protection ensure they never happen to your project.

1. Incorrect or incomplete installation

One of the most frequent issues is fire barriers being incompletely installed, with gaps at edges, unsupported joints, missing fixings, or openings left for future services. Even a small discontinuity can allow fire and smoke to entirely bypass the system.

How TBL mitigates this:

Our fire barrier installation is performed exactly to manufacturer-tested configurations to ensure every joint, penetration, and connection is sealed correctly. Our installers thoroughly check each void and void edge to maintain full barrier continuity and provide photographic evidence for complete traceability.

2. Using the wrong barrier type or fire rating

Many failures start with the wrong specification. Contractors sometimes select barriers based on availability rather than suitability, and use systems that don’t match the void size, fire rating, or the building’s fire strategy.

How TBL mitigates this:

We carefully assess fire ratings, selecting tested systems that meet regulatory requirements and suit each structural zone. Whether the requirement is 30, 60, or 120 minutes, TBL ensures our fire barriers fully comply with UK regulations and align with the building’s passive fire protection design.

3. Poor integration with other trades

Fire barriers are often installed before M&E services are routed. When electricians or plumbers return later, they sometimes unintentionally cut through barriers. This leaves unsealed gaps around pipes, trays, or cables.

How TBL mitigates this:

We coordinate installation with M&E sequencing and integrate fire barriers with our fire stopping works. After service installation, we revisit affected areas to ensure penetrations are sealed and barrier performance is fully restored.

4. Lack of documentation or evidence

Even when fire barriers are correctly installed, missing documentation can trigger compliance issues. Without photos, product data, or as-built records, building owners are unable to prove performance during audits, insurance checks, or inspections.

How TBL mitigates this:

Every fire barrier system we install is backed by a golden thread of documentation. This includes fire barrier installation photos, location mapping, manufacturer certificates, and full project sign-off.

5. Mixing incompatible materials and fixing

Another common issue is combining fire barrier systems with sealants, supports, or fixings that aren’t tested together. This invalidates certification and exposes contractors to liability.

How TBL mitigates this:

Here at TBL, we only use third-party tested, compatible products from accredited manufacturers. Every component is intentionally chosen to meet tested configurations and maintain system integrity.

Fire Barriers That Perform When It Matters

Fire barrier failures are completely avoidable. At TBL, our passive fire passive specialists ensure your building stays protected and compliant with the right specification, expert installation, and complete documentation.

If you want expert fire barrier installation backed by compliant fire stopping, full documentation, and proven passive fire protection, get your free quote today!