How many SFRM thickness tests must be conducted underneath metal decking that covers 9,100 square feet?

To determine the number of thickness tests needed for Spray-Applied Fire-Resistive Materials (SFRM) beneath metal decking that covers 9,100 square feet, inspectors typically follow guidelines set by industry standards such as ASTM E736 or specific client requirements. According to these guidelines, testing frequency is often based on the area covered, and a common approach is to conduct a certain number of tests per square footage to ensure quality and compliance.

In this context, for an area of 9,100 square feet, the requirement is generally aligned with a specific minimum number of tests defined by the guidelines for this size area. The choice of conducting 10 tests is compliant with these industry recommendations, as it often reflects a balance between comprehensive assessment and reasonable logistical execution. Each test is intended to gather data representative of the entire area while not being excessively burdensome.

Additionally, the rationale behind conducting multiple tests is to account for variations in application thickness that may result from the intricacies of the substrate, application technique, or even environmental factors. Conducting 10 tests provides a solid statistical basis to assess whether the SFRM has been applied uniformly and meets the necessary fire-resistance ratings.

Thus, the selected number of 10 tests is adequate for