British Gypsum has unveiled new research that examines current firestopping practices across the UK construction sector, revealing the urgent need for solutions that simplify compliance and reduce risk.
The study, conducted independently on behalf of British Gypsum with 169 architects, specifiers, contractors, installers, and distributors, identified near-unanimous agreement that the market needs solutions where the firestopping element has been tested in conjunction with the surrounding construction. A striking 97% of respondents said a single-source firestopping solution would add value to their projects, while almost two-thirds (64%) confirmed they would switch from their current specifications if one were available.
Contractors in particular highlighted the cost of addressing firestopping installations that do not align with project requirements or tested system details. Nine in ten (90%) said remedial work is contributing to project delays and rising costs, with around 40% of projects requiring some level of firestopping rework.
Other findings include:
- System coordination: 88% of contractors say coordinating firestopping components and systems across multiple suppliers is a challenge.
- Knowledge gaps: 81% of professionals admit maintaining firestopping compliance from design through to handover is difficult, with unclear specification emerging as the top issue.
- Distributor pressure: 93% report customers are specifically asking for solutions that integrate with British Gypsum systems.
- Training needs: 87% of distributors say additional training and guidance would boost their confidence when advising customers.
- Regulatory impact: 90% of contractors say the Building Safety Act has fundamentally changed their approach to firestopping – but the same number still face challenges in achieving full-system compliance with confidence.
"Firestopping can be complex, but our Gyproc Firestopping range, combined with our professional guidance and technical support, can ease this process" said Coral Morgan, Head of Fire Protection Solutions, British Gypsum.
"Our research shows a clear appetite for tested firestopping solutions that help simplify specification, support compliance and provide greater confidence throughout the project lifecycle. From design through to installation, customers want systems that are tested, supported, and practical to deliver – and that's exactly where we're focused."
The findings also reinforce the growing role of digital tools. Respondents cited BIM integration, online specification platforms and CPD resources as vital for supporting accurate, efficient firestopping, with 96% of architects saying enhanced digital tools would improve confidence in the specification process.
Trust in manufacturers is critical when it comes to fire safety. British Gypsum has invested extensively in developing passive fire protection solutions that are designed to be used alongside its proven system portfolio, backed by rigorous testing and technical expertise. This commitment positions British Gypsum as a reliable partner for delivering safer, fully compliant firestopping solutions.
"With the regulatory landscape evolving fast, this is a clear call to action for manufacturers," added Morgan. "The industry is asking for solutions that optimise specification, streamline project delivery and close the gap between design and installation. At British Gypsum, we are responding to that challenge. These insights are already shaping our product strategy and reaffirm our commitment to delivering safer and more compliant building solutions."
