When it comes to enhancing safety and sustainability in commercial buildings, smoke vents are essential. They provide a means to control and vent smoke during a fire, improving evacuation safety and aiding firefighting efforts. However, not all smoke vents are created equal. While traditional smoke vents serve their purpose effectively, commercial daylighting smoke vents offer additional benefits that can significantly enhance the functionality and value of a building. In this blog, we explore the advantages of commercial daylighting smoke vents over regular smoke vents.

In the intricate world of construction, precision is paramount. Every aspect of a building must be meticulously planned and executed to ensure safety, functionality, and compliance with regulations. When it comes to essential elements like roof hatches and smoke vents, understanding and specifying their openings correctly can make all the difference in the success of a project. In this guide, we'll dive deep into the nuances of these crucial components, equipping you with the knowledge needed to navigate their specifications with confidence.

Enhancing Fire Safety and Energy Efficiency

In the realm of commercial building design, the integration of fire safety measures is paramount to protect occupants and property in the event of emergencies. One critical component of fire safety systems is smoke vents, which facilitate the safe evacuation of occupants and aid firefighting efforts. In recent years, thermally broken smoke vent products have emerged as innovative solutions that not only enhance fire safety but also contribute to energy efficiency and building performance. In this blog, we'll explore the benefits of thermally broken smoke vent products and their significance in commercial building design.

Fire Safety Certification Differences

In the realm of fire safety, the performance and reliability of smoke vents are critical. Two of the most recognized testing and certification standards for these products are UL 793 and FM 4430. While both standards aim to ensure the effectiveness of smoke venting systems, they have distinct differences that can impact the choice of products for commercial and industrial applications. In this blog, we'll explore these variations, shedding light on the distinctions between UL 793 and FM 4430 product labeling and what it means for your fire safety strategies.

The Impact of Daylighting on Air Quality & Bacterial Growth

In recent years, the construction industry has witnessed a significant shift towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. As part of this movement, the installation of glazed roof hatches and smoke vents has gained popularity, with Nystrom standing as a recognized industry leader in manufacturing these innovative solutions. This trend towards daylighting – the practice of incorporating natural sunlight into indoor spaces – has been fueled by a combination of factors, including the desire to reduce electricity dependence, enhance worker well-being, and contribute to overall green efforts. One intriguing dimension of this movement involves its impact on indoor air quality, a topic explored in a groundbreaking study conducted by the University of Oregon and highlighted in an NPR article authored by Kathleen O’Neil.

A Look at Manual, Winch, and Motorized Control Systems

In buildings and structures, smoke vents play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of occupants in the event of a fire. These vents are designed to exhaust smoke and heat, allowing for a safe evacuation and reducing potential damage to the structure. While the opening of smoke vents is essential, equally important is their closure. In this article, we will explore three common methods of smoke vent closure: manual, winch, and motorized control systems. Each method offers unique advantages, and understanding their differences can help facility managers and building owners make informed decisions about their fire safety systems.

Is your building design using the industry’s best acoustical smoke vents? 

Now it can with the new AcousticMAX™!

Rooftop smoke vents are an important part of any building as they allow smoke and heat to escape during a fire. Made from high-quality materials that can withstand extreme temperatures, acoustic smoke vents are designed to block the intrusion of the exterior environmental noise of your building. These vents may be easily installed on commercial roof systems, may be customized to fit your specific needs, and are easy to maintain and keep clean. Acoustic smoke vents are perfect for theaters and performing arts centers.

Condensation typically occurs on inside surfaces of windows, skylights, roof hatches and smoke vents whenever the exterior surface temperature