Use of combustible building materials in wall assemblies increases the risk of fire in the built environment. The relationship between the weather barrier and NFPA285 compliance is often misunderstood. This course will cover the basics of the NFPA 285 test standard, and the building code sections relevant to weather resistive barriers. It will also address the basics of test wall designs, including cladding, insulation, etc., how wall systems that include weather resistive barriers are analyzed for engineering evaluations and compliance strategies.

Learning Objectives:

1. To recognize situations where NFPA 285 requirements must be met
2. How/when expectations to NFPA 285 apply (and don’t apply)
3. About risk and liability where the code is not being met due to improper interpretation of test reports or engineering evaluations
4. To clearly understand manufacturer’s NFPA 285 compliance documents as they relate to claddings, insulation and air barrier assemblies

Mike Shell

Mike Shell is a 20+ year veteran in the building materials industry with sales experience in the residential and commercial insulation and residential roofing markets.

He joined Dörken Systems, Inc. in 2017 and now covers the Mid-Atlantic Region for the Above Grade and Below Grade product categories in both commercial and for residential construction.