The Grenfell fire in June 2017 brought into sharp relief not only the importance of using fire-safe materials in our buildings, but also why they need to be installed in the right way
As leading suppliers of fire-rated composite cladding to homes and businesses across the UK, we understand why some people have become nervous about the mere mention of cladding, especially those who live in high-rise buildings.
In this article, we’re going to explain fire ratings for composite cladding together with why it’s vital that you choose the correct material for your particular project.
The growing popularity of composite cladding
There are several very good reasons why composite cladding has become such a popular material to use when designing and constructing buildings in the UK. Its key benefits include being an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice that is easy to install and requires little maintenance afterwards. Meanwhile, the wide range of colours it can come in means it’s easy to get exactly the look you want in order to create a stylish property that catches the eye.
Of course, none of this matters if the cladding you’re using represents a fire risk that might put you and your family at risk.
Understanding fire ratings: what do they mean?
Like other construction materials, all composite cladding sold in the UK should be rated for fire safety in order to meet BS EN 13501-1 regarding what types can be used where. These ratings are as follows:
- Class A
A Class A rating would mean that the cladding in question was entirely non-flammable. However, given the materials used in composite cladding, this is essentially unachievable.
- Class B
Class B is, therefore, the highest that can be used, being a fire-resistant material that does not readily ignite or significantly contribute to a fire when exposed to flames. It can be used on offices and hotels of any height (if accompanied by Class A2 rated insulation) and on residential buildings under 18 metres high.
- Class C
Probably the standard for most composite cladding, a Class C rating indicates that while the cladding is considered combustible and can contribute to a fire if exposed to flames, it does not spread rapidly.
- Class D
Representing medium combustibility, Class D cladding would lead to a moderate amount of fire spread and is also considered a standard for composite cladding, although all of ours is either Class B or Class C.
- Classes E and F
These ratings mean that the materials would be highly combustible and make a high contribution to any fire. As such, these classes are unsuitable for use on high buildings or where safety is a critical factor. The cladding used at Grenfell Tower was rated Class E.
The importance of compliance with building regulations
Given what happened at Grenfell Tower, the importance of using appropriate cladding material on any residential building cannot be overestimated. Building regulations surrounding the use of cladding on high-rise buildings are understandably the strictest, but you still need to meet certain standards on any structure, so it’s important you check which regulations apply to your particular project as early as possible.
Needless to say, failure to follow regulations could result in severe penalties, including unlimited fines and up to two years in prison, depending on the seriousness of the offence.
It’s also important that your cladding is properly installed and regularly maintained in order to ensure its condition continues to meet the necessary fire safety standards.
Here at Assured Composite, we only supply composite cladding that has at least a Class C fire rating.
The range includes:
- Classic Sanded Composite Cladding – Fire Rating B
- Classic Woodgrain Composite Cladding – Fire Rating B
- Superior Woodgrain Composite Cladding – Fire Rating B
- Elite Woodgrain Slatted Composite Cladding – Fire Rating C
Please note: We would always recommend getting professional advice before committing to buying composite cladding to ensure you are getting a product with the right fire rating for your intended use.
Get in touch now for more information and advice or order your free sample today.