ARC Party Wall DPC
The ARC Party Wall DPC is a tested cavity fire barrier incorporating an integral damp proof course, designed to close
external cavities at party wall locations within masonry construction. Its function is to restrict the passage of fire
and hot gases within the cavity while simultaneously providing damp proof protection at the external leaf.
The product has been assessed to meet the relevant performance requirements of UK and Irish Building Regulations and is
suitable for installation in low-rise residential and similar masonry structures. It may be installed vertically,
horizontally, or in a staggered arrangement depending on the specific detail at the party wall junction.
Key Facts
- Provides up to 4 hours fire integrity (subject to construction type and tested configuration)
- Available for vertical, horizontal, or staggered installation
- Incorporates an integral DPC
- Commonly specified for terraced, semi-detached housing, apartments and larger residential developments
- Designed to satisfy the fire performance intent of Approved Document B
- Suitable for cavity widths up to 300mm
- Installed using a friction fit, no mechanical fixings required
- Third-party certificated by IFC
Application
The ARC Party Wall DPC is intended for use at party wall and party floor junctions where building regulations require
the cavity to be closed using non-combustible mineral wool barriers.
Manufactured from non-combustible rockfibre mineral wool and enclosed in colour-coded polythene for identification and
weather protection, the unit includes an integral DPC layer. This removes the need for a separate DPC between the
barrier and the external masonry leaf.
Before installation, the installer should review the manufacturer’s technical datasheet to confirm correct product
selection and suitability for the constructed cavity width.
All declared performance characteristics are supported by IFC certification (IFCC 1728). Supporting documentation
including test reports, certification and safety data sheets is available upon request.
Installation instructions
The ARC Party Wall DPC is designed to be installed progressively as brick and block work advances. The unit relies on an
accurate friction fit within the cavity and does not require compression or mechanical restraint. Precise cavity
dimensions are critical to prevent gaps around the barrier.
Vertical Installation
Complete the internal blockwork leaf first. Position the barrier firmly against the blockwork, then construct the
external brickwork tight against the unit to ensure full contact and no voids.
The 100mm DPC lap should be located at the base of each section. Each subsequent length must overlap the one below,
maintaining continuous damp proof protection.
Horizontal Installation
As construction progresses, embed the wider DPC flange into the mortar joint between two courses of blockwork. The
vertical position should be set so that the barrier aligns tightly with the floor edge detail and the DPC remains fully
supported without sagging.
Installation Guidance
- Confirm that the constructed cavity width matches the selected barrier size.
- No gaps are permissible around the barrier; if required, adjust the masonry leaves to achieve a tight fit.
- Where lengths meet, butt joints must be tight with continuous insulation across the joint.
- The coloured polythene sleeve may remain in place at joints; however, excess material should not prevent full insulation contact.
- For shortened sections, cut the DPC cleanly to length before trimming the polythene and mineral wool using appropriate hand tools.
- Take care not to damage or excessively compress the mineral wool during cutting or installation.
Regulatory compliance note
This product should be selected and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s current datasheet and third-party
certification (e.g., IFC certificate IFCC 1728), and in a manner that supports compliance with Building Regulations in
the applicable jurisdiction. In England, cavity fire barriers are typically detailed to meet the functional requirements
of Approved Document B (fire safety) and Approved Document C (resistance to moisture), with acceptance ultimately
subject to Building Control approval for the specific wall build-up and project conditions.

