Gun Safe Fire Protection
A fireproof safe is one that has undergone a thermal resistance testing process. Investing in a gun safe that can withstand high temperatures will protect your firearm collection, documents, and any other valuables that are placed in the safe.
Thermal Resistance
Gun safes are typically constructed of steel or a steel alloy. These metals tend to maintain their structural integrity, even after being exposed to extreme temperatures. There is no way to ensure that a gun safe will remain undamaged if it is exposed to a fire. A prolonged fire that involves intense heat may eventually damage a safe. In spite of the threat of damage, there are ways to increase security when storing your firearms, important paperwork, and other valuables.
A gun safe manufacturer tests various safe materials and design layouts. During the testing process, materials undergo thermal resistance inspections. These inspections determine how long a steel product can withstand high heat. A gun manufacturer will rate the products they sell. When shopping for a safe, assess the thermal rating that a manufacturer has supplied. The rating will be indicative of how resilient a safe is to heat exposure.
Gypsum Board, Composites, And Insulators
Gypsum board (drywall), concrete composites, and fire retardant insulators will aid with regulating the temperature within a gun safe. If a safe is exposed to a fire, the properties of one of the reinforcing materials will minimize the amount of damage that a safe and its contents endure. Many gun safe manufactures install gypsum between the metal panels that a safe is constructed of. Gypsum may be located in the door and the side and back pieces that a gun safe is constructed of.
Concrete composites are used in many modern gun safe designs. Composites prevent the spread of a fire, plus act as a buffer that will prohibit flames from entering a safe. Composites are often heavy. The use of a safe that contains a composite material may make it difficult to move a bulky safe.
Consider the use value of a safe. Then, purchase either a safe that contains gypsum or a concrete composite. If you would like to increase the thermal resistance of your new safe, purchase insulating materials that are flame-resistant. Use the insulating materials to add additional protection to the inside of the safe. Cut sections of the insulating material and use an adhesive to secure each section to the inside of the gun safe.
Contact a service to learn more about gun safes.