Meet John McPhail

So, why “The Smoke Curtain Guy”?

Well, I didn't give it to myself.

All of the contractors that I met on a jobsite would either say, “you the smoke curtain guy?” or “oh, you're the smoke curtain guy” and I'd say “yes”.

So the name stuck.

My Goal

To be a resource for whatever you need when it comes to fire and smoke curtains (and maybe even a little bit more).

I can help with code questions, installation questions, manufacturer questions, and even if they are required or a good solution for the application. Sometimes they are not.

Just reach out and ask. I'll give you a straight answer.

24 Years of Experience

• • Hands-on with elevator smoke curtains across all building types
• • Direct experience with AHJ approvals and code interpretations
• • Brand-agnostic advice—pick the right system for your project
• • Specialized in IBC Section 3006 compliance and fire safety codes

What I Can Help With

• • IBC Section 3006 compliance questions
• • Elevator smoke curtain vs lobby decisions
• • Code path & AHJ strategy
• • Budgeting & scope alignment
• • Installation & commissioning guidance
• • Product selection & specifications