Balco, Inc.

Balco’s new SPEC-Center gives architects, specifiers and contractors a more direct way to access downloadable CSI 3-Part Specifications in Word format for project manuals and master specifications. The page organizes specification documents by product category, including expansion joints, firestop systems, mats and grids, photoluminescent egress markings, trench and access covers, and stair nosings. With current, editable specification content in one place, project teams can reduce uncertainty and incorporate Balco product information into their standard specification workflow. Visit Balco’s SPEC-Center: https://lnkd.in/eXtjrTkG. #ArchitectureSpecs #ConstructionDocuments #ArchitecturalDesign #BuildingCodes #BalcoUSA

Balco just joined Silicone Specialties, Inc. (SSI) in Springdale, Arkansas, for an interactive Fire-Rated Expansion Joint training with local waterproofing and roofing contractors. Steve Cooper led the hands-on session, walking through fire-rated expansion joint systems, installation details, field conditions, and common questions contractors face on the job. Thank you to SSI and everyone who took part in the training. We appreciate the questions, discussion, and time with the local contractor community. #FireRatedExpansionJoints #Firestopping #Waterproofing #RoofingContractors #BuildingSafety #ConstructionTraining

Firestop Materials Are Not One-Size-Fits-All The right choice depends on the penetrant, pipe material, rated assembly, and tested system. Some materials are designed to expand, some stay flexible, and others help absorb heat under fire conditions. In this Coop’s Corner video, Balco’s Steve Cooper breaks down the differences between intumescent, elastomeric, and endothermic firestop materials and where each one is commonly used. Intumescent materials are often used around plastic pipes because they expand under heat. Elastomeric sealants can support applications where movement is part of the assembly. Endothermic materials are used in conditions involving heat-conducting metal pipes. Watch the Coop’s Corner video on choosing the right firestop sealant at: https://lnkd.in/eAUn4TYd or on YouTube at https://lnkd.in/ecUGBQ6z #FireSafety #Metacaulk #ConstructionSafety #CoopsCorner #BalcoUSA

Base-isolated buildings are designed to move during seismic activity. That movement can create wide perimeter gaps between the building and surrounding structures, including at plazas, sidewalks, and interior transitions. Expansion joint systems help accommodate that displacement while keeping the surface accessible and integrated with the surrounding design. Balco’s QuakeSpan™ base isolation moat systems are engineered to span wide seismic gaps and allow movement in multiple directions. The systems support clean transitions across large openings where the finished surface still needs to perform as part of the building. For projects in high seismic zones, the right expansion joint system helps support movement, performance, and design continuity. Click here to learn more: https://lnkd.in/ezFNqZd7 #SeismicDesign #StructuralEngineering #BaseIsolation #QuakeSpan #BalcoUSA

On busy stairs, the front edge of each step takes a lot of daily wear. Over time, that edge can become worn, chipped, or harder to see, which can affect traction, visibility, and the overall condition of the stairway. Stair nosings help address that issue by reinforcing the front edge of the tread, creating a more defined walking surface, and improving slip resistance. In commercial buildings, they can also support code-compliant egress design when used with photoluminescent options. Balco offers stair nosing systems for both retrofit and new construction applications, including options designed for visibility, durability, and slip resistance in demanding stair environments. Balco stair nosing options can support: • Improved step-edge visibility • Slip-resistant walking surfaces • Protection for stair tread edges • Retrofit and new construction applications • Photoluminescent egress marking options • IBC-compliant and ADA-compliant stair design Read more here: https://lnkd.in/eqiMuh6x #StairDesign #LifeSafety #CommercialArchitecture #BuildingMaterials #BalcoUSA

Balco’s IllumiTread™ egress markings help create an intuitive evacuation path in tall buildings during power outages and other emergencies. In high-rise buildings, hospitals, stadiums and arenas, stairwells become the primary path out during an emergency. When visibility drops, IllumiTread™ photoluminescent markings help guide occupants along stairs, landings, handrails, doorways and exit routes. The system meets IBC requirements and provides a glow-in-the-dark path without relying on electricity. IllumiTread™ options include: • Handrail markings • Demarcation lines • Obstruction markings • Stair nosings • Exit and directional signage Learn more about Balco IllumiTread™ Photoluminescent Egress Markings at: https://lnkd.in/e9pymk4. #EgressSafety #LifeSafety #Photoluminescent #HighRiseConstruction #BalcoUSA

Contractor training improves effectiveness when it moves from the classroom to the field. Balco will be at RectorSeal headquarters in Houston this week for contractor training focused on Metacaulk® firestop and fire-rated expansion joint systems. The training will include classroom sessions and hands-on demonstrations to help contractors better understand product applications, installation practices, and project coordination for fire-rated assemblies. #ContractorTraining #HandsOnLearning #FirestopSystems #BalcoTraining

What does entrance flooring need to handle at the front door? Commercial entrances collect more than foot traffic. Rolling loads, moisture, dirt, and daily wear all affect how the entry performs and how well interior flooring is protected. Balco’s Floor Grid Low Profile (FGLP) entrance floor grid is a recessed, heavy-duty, low-profile system designed for commercial applications where durability, maintenance access, and a clean finished look all matter. Available with abrasive or carpet tread options, the roll-up grid helps capture dirt and moisture at the entry while allowing access below for cleaning and maintenance. FGLP entrance grid options include: • FGLP-A abrasive tread • FGLP-C carpet tread • Recessed, low-profile design • Roll-up access for sub-surface cleaning • 1-inch depth, excluding anchors • Rolling load performance of 1,000 passes at 1,500 pounds Learn more about Balco entrance grids at: https://lnkd.in/eHB28g6s #BuildingMaintenance #FacilityManagement #CommercialDesign #MatsAndGrids #BalcoUSA

Electrical boxes are common in fire-rated partition walls and are usually hidden from view once construction is complete. Firestop options can be used around the box opening during framing or after drywall is already installed. In the Coop’s Corner video series, Balco’s Steve Cooper shows how contractors can protect electrical box penetrations at different stages of construction, from open framing to retrofit conditions. In the video, Steve walks through several options, including MetaCaulk® Box Guard, Cover Guard for receptacles and putty pads for open framing. See Steve’s full walkthrough on firestopping electrical boxes at: https://lnkd.in/eAUn4TYd or on YouTube at https://lnkd.in/eyx96bb9 #ElectricalSafety #PassiveFireProtection #ConstructionLife #CoopsCorner #BalcoUSA

Headed to Marco Island for SPHERE 1? Balco will be in Marco Island, Florida, May 4-7 for the SPHERE 1 Annual Conference, connecting with distributors, suppliers, and industry partners. Visit us at our table to meet the Balco team and learn more about how our commercial building product solutions support project performance, safety, and coordination. We look forward to seeing SPHERE 1 members and supplier partners in Marco Island. #SPHERE1Conference #BalcoTeam #BuildingSolutions