Fire rated glass

At Specialist Glass Products, we are certified to manufacture double-glazed fire rated units that have outstanding performance.

We offer a range of fire rated glass cut to size, including ‘E’ rated, ‘EW rated’ and ‘EI rated’ to suit your unique requirements.

What is fire rated glass?

Fire resistant glass, also known as fire rated glass, plays a crucial role in safeguarding buildings and their occupants in the event of a fire. Different types of fire resistant glass offer varying performance characteristics, making it essential to choose the right type based on the required fire resistance and the specified minimum time performance.

Fire rated double glazed units

Our team has achieved accreditation for Level 1 Attestation (AoC Level 1). We are authorised to manufacture double-glazed units with exceptional fire resistant performance. Additionally, we can supply single glazing options for various fire rated glass applications, ensuring comprehensive safety solutions.

We also offer a varied product range, including specially coated glass like LOW E, solar control, acoustic, and privacy glass options, which are available depending on your unique requirements.

Types of fire resistant glass:

‘E’ Rated Fire Glass

Basic fire glass, often labelled with the letter ‘E’ followed by a number (e.g., E30), provides integrity-only protection. This means that E30 glass will maintain its physical integrity for a minimum of 30 minutes, acting as a transparent barrier against flames, smoke, and hot toxic gases.

Proper glazing is essential to ensure this level of protection. Common E30 glass types include GWPP clear-wired glass and GWRC obscure-wired glass.

‘EW’ Rated Fire Glass

‘EW’ fire rated glass offers the same integrity characteristics as ‘E’ labelled fire glass but with an added degree of insulation against radiated heat. This type of glass, which resembles clear laminated glass, turns opaque during a fire, signalling danger.

The insulation value can vary by manufacturer, and it may be more aesthetically suitable for homes or installations where wired glass is not preferred. For example is EW30, a 7mm thick clear glass, which can be used in sealed units or as single glazing for relevant applications.

‘EI’ Rated Fire Glass

For the highest level of protection, ‘EI’ fire rated glass is the best choice. It offers both integrity and insulation from radiated heat for specified times. For instance, EI 30/30 glass provides 30 minutes of integrity and 30 minutes of insulation. This means the glass will remain intact and keep the non-fire side’s temperature from exceeding 25°C within 1m of the glass surface.

‘E rated’ fire glass also helps create escape routes that are smoke-free, flame-free, and safe from combustion. However, EI glass may react with UV light, so for external applications, it should be paired with an outer laminated product.

Applications and benefits of fire resistant glass

Using fire-rated double-glazed units enhances building safety and they are suitable for:

Commercial buildings: Ensuring the safety of employees and visitors.
Residential properties: Protecting families and homes.
Public spaces: Providing secure evacuation routes.

Fire rated glass can also be installed within a range of different areas of the building, including:

Fire rated glass door: For both internal and external uses to control the spread of fire
Fire rated glass partition: Helps to maintain natural light while offering fire protection
Fire rated glass windows: Suitable throughout the external of a building

Overall, having fire rated glass, beyond fire doors and walls allows occupants a clear view of any potential dangers in the building and to act quickly should a fire occur.

Fire rated glass installation

The fire resistant performance of glass depends not only on the glass itself but also on the precise combination of the frame, glazing method, and glass. Incorrect glazing materials or frame compositions can compromise the integrity of the fire rated double glazed units, allowing hot gases and smoke to pass through and rendering the fire glazing ineffective.

At Specialist Glass Products, we ensure all glazing is carried out according to the prescribed methods to achieve the desired protection. We also offer nationwide delivery from our Huddersfield glass manufacturing factory.

Contact us

To discuss your fire rated glass requirements, please contact our dedicated team at: fire@specialistglass.co.uk

Alternatively, use our contact form to input your requirements, and a member of our team will get back to you shortly.

“Thank you for your excellent service involving the design, supply and installation of the glazed link structure at Hall Farm, Hathersage. We pride ourselves on our high quality of design and recognised that Specialist Glass Products should meet our aspirations. The complexities of working on listed buildings in the Peak district, combined with the arduous site constraints were always going to be a challenge. However, the finished product has surpassed the expectations of all involved including the discerning client and the planning officials. Needless to say, I would not hesitate to recommend your services. Thank you once again and I look forward to working with you again in the future.”
David EttridgeRIBA Architect

Whatever your specialist glass requirements, our team is here to help.

Let’s discuss your project today!