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Professional Elevator Smoke Containment

Automatic-deploying fire and smoke barriers engineered for modern architectural design.

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Safety Without Compromise

Upstate Architectural Solutions provides industry-leading elevator smoke containment systems that meet International Building Code (IBC) requirements for commercial buildings throughout Greenville, Spartanburg, Anderson, and the surrounding Upstate SC region.

Our advanced smoke curtain technology eliminates the need for traditional enclosed elevator lobbies, offering architects and building owners a cost-effective, space-saving solution that maintains full code compliance while enhancing building design flexibility.

Understanding IBC Elevator Smoke Containment Requirements

IBC Section 3006.2: When an elevator hoistway connects more than three stories and must be enclosed within a shaft enclosure per Section 712.1.1, the elevator hoistway door openings require protection in accordance with Section 3006.3.

Traditional building design has relied on enclosed elevator lobbies to meet these smoke containment requirements. However, modern fire-rated smoke curtain systems offer a superior alternative that complies with IBC Section 3006.3, Item 3, allowing elevator doors to open directly into corridors without the need for costly, space-consuming elevator lobbies.

Our Elevator Smoke Containment Solutions

Why Elevator Smoke Containment Matters

Elevator shafts can act as vertical chimneys during a fire, rapidly spreading smoke throughout a building. Proper smoke containment at elevator openings is critical for:

Life Safety: Preventing smoke migration that can trap occupants and impede evacuation
Property Protection: Limiting fire and smoke damage to other floors
Firefighter Safety: Maintaining clear access routes for emergency responders
Code Compliance: Meeting mandatory IBC requirements for multi-story buildings

GX Transparent Smoke Curtain

Best For: Modern commercial buildings prioritizing visibility and aesthetics

Clear, transparent material maintains open sightlines
Smoke-rated protection for elevator openings
Minimal visual impact on building design
Ideal for Class A office buildings, hotels, and mixed-use developments
Allows elevator doors to open directly to corridors
UL tested and IBC Section 3006.3 compliant

SD Fire-Rated Smoke Curtain

Best For: Buildings requiring maximum fire protection

3-hour fire-rated material provides superior protection
Combined smoke and fire barrier in one system
Exceeds standard smoke containment requirements
Perfect for high-rise buildings, hospitals, and critical facilities
Eliminates need for enclosed elevator lobbies
Fully compliant with IBC fire-resistance requirements

3-hour fire-rated material provides superior protection
Combined smoke and fire barrier in one system
Exceeds standard smoke containment requirements
Perfect for high-rise buildings, hospitals, and critical facilities
Eliminates need for enclosed elevator lobbies
Fully compliant with IBC fire-resistance requirements

How Elevator Smoke Curtains Work

Both systems are engineered to deploy automatically when smoke is detected:

Detection: Building fire alarm system identifies smoke near elevator openings
Activation: Signal triggers curtain deployment mechanism
Deployment: Curtain rapidly descends from concealed head box to seal elevator opening
Containment: Smoke and/or fire is contained within elevator shaft, protecting corridor and other floors
Reset: After alarm clearance, curtain retracts automatically or manually for inspection

Applications: Where

Aesthetics Meet Safety

Architects in the Upstate region choose our systems because they allow for:

Open Concept Atriums: Fulfill IBC 404.6 requirements without permanent walls.
Unobstructed Views: Maintain clean sightlines in lobbies and museums.
Space Efficiency: Remove the bulk of traditional fire doors in tight corridors

Benefits of Modern Elevator Smoke Containment Systems

Design & Space Advantages

Maximize Leasable Space: Convert former lobby areas into rentable office or retail space

Enhanced Aesthetics: Maintain open, modern floor plans without visual barriers

Design Flexibility: Give architects greater freedom in building layout and circulation patterns

Why Choose Upstate Architectural Solutions?

As the leading provider of elevator smoke containment systems in Upstate South Carolina, we bring:

Local Expertise: Deep understanding of South Carolina building codes and local inspection requirements
Certified Installation: Factory-trained technicians ensuring proper installation and optimal performance
Comprehensive Service: From initial consultation through installation, testing, and ongoing maintenance
Fast Response: Local presence means quick project turnaround and responsive support
Proven Track Record: Successfully completed projects throughout Greenville, Spartanburg, and Upstate SC

Ready to Secure Your Building ?

Don't compromise on safety or style. Contact Upstate Architectural Solutions today for a consultation or quote on our advanced fire curtain systems.