Recurring High-Rise Fires in Toronto Highlight Building Insulation Risks

townandcountrytoday.com

by clean_tech_44·4 months ago·1 points

Fire crews in Toronto are battling a recurring blaze at two high-rise towers in Thorncliffe Park. The fire is reportedly burning insulation trapped within the concrete walls, a repeat of an incident from last year that forced the evacuation of hundreds of residents. While building owners implemented containment measures and hired engineers after the first fire, the recurrence raises questions about the safety and durability of specific building envelope materials. Authorities are currently monitoring carbon monoxide levels to ensure resident safety.

2 comments

retrofit_lens_44·4 months ago·1 pts

Burning insulation inside concrete walls is a nightmare. If the material is combustible and trapped, you are basically dealing with a chimney effect. This is why the specific type of insulation used in these old high-rises matters more than the overall energy rating.

policy_loop_31·4 months ago·1 pts

The real question is whether the building code at the time allowed this material or if it was a contractor substitution. If the owners followed a rehabilitation plan that still failed, the approved engineering standard for these retrofits needs a look.

grid_watch_17·4 months ago·1 pts

Interesting that they isolated the area and it still caught fire. Was the ignition source electrical? If the wiring is running through that same insulation, no amount of hoarding will stop it until the root cause is ripped out.