What are Fire Rated Windows?
Fire rated windows help stop fire from spreading from one part of a building to another. This is called compartmentation and is a key part of keeping a fire contained.
Regular glass can fail in less than two minutes when exposed to fire. Fire rated windows use specialist glass and frames that are tested to perform for a set period, usually 30, 60, 90, or 120 minutes.
You may see ratings like E30, EI60, or EI120, these indicate how long the system can hold back flames, and the ‘E’ and ‘EI’ classifications reflect the level of fire protection provided.
These are different to AOV windows, which are designed to open automatically to exhaust smoke and heat from the building when smoke is detected. If this is what you need you can read more about our AOV windows.
Where Fire Rated Windows Are Needed?
Fire rated windows are commonaly found in stair core, protected corridors, offices, schools, hospitals, and residential buildings. They are required when windows form part of a compartment wall or are close to boundaries or neighbouring properties.
In most projects, whether they are needed and what type, comes down to the fire strategy and regulations. We can review this to confirm the right solution.
Fire Rated Window Options
We supply a range of fire rated windows that are made tailored to you building and requirements. Contact us today and our team will be happy to help.
PVC Fire Rated Windows (E30)
A simple, cost-effective option for projects where integrity only protection is required.
- Typically supplied as fixed panes only
- Suitable for budget led applications
- Available with clear or obscured glass
Aluminium Fire Rated Windows (E30 – EI120)
A more flexible option suitable for both internal and external applications.
- Available as fixed or openable windows
- Can achieve higher fire ratings (up to EI120)
- Options for automated or motorised opening systems
- Suitable for larger openings and facade applications
Timber Fire Rated Windows (Up to EI60)
A fully bespoke option where aesthetics or specific design requirements are important.
- Available in a wide range of sizes and configurations
- Can be manufactured to match existing finishes or RAL colours
- Suitable for both traditional and modern buildings
- Wide range of glazing options available
Interior Fire Rated Windows
Interior fire rated windows are used inside buildings, in places like corridors and stairwells where escape routes need to be protected.
Tested as a complete system, they help contain smoke and fire while still allowing light and visibility in areas that would otherwise require solid construction.
Exterior Fire Rated Windows
Exterior fire-rated windows are designed to limit fire spread across facades, between floors or to nearby buildings. They are especially important in multi-storey buildings, or where properties are close together and fire can spread through windows quickly.
In many high-rise buildings, flames can spread from windows into the building’s facade or cladding. Fire rated windows help to reduce the risk of this intial spread.
These systems still need to meet fire standards but also must meet external requirements such as weather resistance.
They are available in fixed windows and openable, depending on what the fire strategy allows.
Openable Fire-rated Windows
Openable fire rated windows are designed to provide ventilation while still maintaining a certified level of fire resistance. Because these systems include moving parts, they must undergo additional testing and are designed to shut automatically in a fire. This allows you to benefit from comfort ventilation in normal operation while ensuring a robust barrier against fire when required.
They are typically only used when ventilation is necessary and where the fire strategy allows for them. If you are unsure, contact us today and our team will be able to talk you through the options.
Fire Rated Window Regulations
If you are specifying fire rated windows, these standards usually come up:
- BS 476 Part 20 & 22 – Fire resistance testing of building elements
- EN 1634-1 – Fire testing for doors and openable windows
- BS EN 13501-2 – Fire classifications (E, EW, and EI ratings)
- Approved Document B – The UK Building regulations for fire safety
- Fire-resistance Glazing Guidance – general best practise
We supply fire rated windows tailored to your project and can review your drawings and fire strategy to help make sure everything is correctly specified and compliant.
We are smoke ventilations specialists and can help you manage all kinds of projects where fire-rated windows or smoke ventilation and compartmentation is required.
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