NFPA 285, Simplified: aPlank’s Fire Performance = Faster Approvals

Sep 29

Written By aPlank

When designing multi-story facades, every specification decision can mean the difference between a smooth approval process and weeks of back-and-forth with plan reviewers. Fire performance is often one of the most scrutinized aspects, and it’s where aPlank delivers clear advantages.

With proven compliance to ASTM E136 (noncombustible) and ASTM E84 Class A, aPlank reduces facade fuel load, lowers risk, and helps your submittals move forward without friction.

What the Fire Tests Mean for Fire Performance

ASTM E136 (Noncombustible): aPlank panels don’t add fuel or sustain flaming, making them ideal for Types I–IV construction and high-rise applications.

ASTM E84 (Class A): Flame Spread Index ≤ 25; Smoke Developed Index ≤ 450. This clean, familiar classification simplifies specifications and reviews for code officials.

Where NFPA 285 Fits

NFPA 285 is a large-scale test for full exterior wall assemblies that include combustible materials like claddings, foam plastics, or many WRBs.

All-Noncombustible Assemblies: If your wall system uses only noncombustible cladding, insulation, and sub-framing, NFPA 285 is often not triggered. Always confirm with your AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction).

Combustible Components Present: When foam insulation or combustible WRBs are specified, an NFPA 285-compliant assembly is required. Thanks to aPlank’s noncombustibility, pairing with listed WRB and insulation systems is straightforward.

How to Specify for Faster Approvals

Use clear, familiar language in your project specifications:

“Exterior cladding: Noncombustible per ASTM E136; ASTM E84 Class A.”

“Where combustible WRB or foam plastic insulation is used, provide an NFPA 285-compliant exterior wall assembly documented by current listings or engineering judgment accepted by the AHJ.”

This direct approach helps reviewers check the right boxes faster.

The Bottom Line

Noncombustible + Class A = Less Risk, Smoother Approvals

Pair aPlank with listed systems when combustibles are present in the wall.

For many projects, going all-noncombustible (aPlank, noncombustible insulation, noncombustible sub-framing, and a low-fuel WRB per 2024 IBC §1402.6) lets you bypass NFPA 285 entirely.

Fire Test Comparison for Exterior Facades

  
    Test / Standard
    What It Measures
    When It Applies
    Requirement / Criteria
    aPlank Performance
  

    ASTM E136 – Noncombustibility
    Checks if material adds fuel or sustains flaming
    Types I–IV construction, high-rise projects
    Must not ignite, sustain flaming, or contribute fuel
    ✅ aPlank classified Noncombustible
  

    ASTM E84 – Surface Burning (Class A–C)
    Flame spread and smoke development
    Almost all cladding materials (to classify flame/smoke)
    Class A: Flame Spread Index ≤ 25; Smoke Index ≤ 450
    ✅ aPlank achieves Class A
  

    NFPA 285 – Full-Scale Wall Assembly
    Vertical & lateral flame spread in multi-story assemblies
    Required when combustible components (foam plastics, WRBs, some claddings) are present
    Assembly must prevent flame propagation per test
    ⚡ Not required if all components are noncombustible (aPlank + noncombustible insulation + framing + low-fuel WRB)
  

Need Documentation?

Ask for the aPlank Fire Compliance Packet, which includes:

ASTM E136 Noncombustibility summary
ASTM E84 Class A test results
NFPA 285 guidance for common wall assemblies

With aPlank, fire safety is simplified. Helping your project stay compliant, reduce risk, and keep approvals on track.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does NFPA 285 mean for aluminum facades?

NFPA 285 is a fire test for full wall assemblies using combustible materials. With aPlank’s noncombustible aluminum panels, many projects can bypass this test, saving time and cost.

Are aPlank aluminum facades noncombustible?

Yes. aPlank panels are tested per ASTM E136 and classified as noncombustible. They also meet ASTM E84 Class A, ensuring minimal flame spread and smoke development.

Can aluminum facades help speed up project approvals?

Absolutely. Since aPlank aluminum facades are noncombustible and Class A, they reduce code review friction and help design teams move submittals through faster.

When is NFPA 285 required in facade design?

NFPA 285 is required when wall assemblies include combustibles like foam insulation or certain WRBs. With aPlank, pairing with listed systems simplifies compliance.

How can I get fire compliance documentation for aPlank?

You can request the aPlank Fire Compliance Packet, which includes ASTM E136 and ASTM E84 test results plus NFPA 285 guidance for your project.

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