FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The FAQs below provide a brief overview and general position on our glass products. The information contained within the FAQs should not be relied upon to replace specific advice based on your individual project needs. Please speak to us about your project needs, and we can advise you further.

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WHY SHOULD I USE FIRE GLASS UK?

We are industry and quality accredited and can help you with all your specialist glass and glazing needs. Fire Glass UK is market leader with branches nationally and strong working relationships with industry specialists across Europe. It’s vital to get the right product for each individual project – we provide the technical know-how, product range and outstanding service as a whole package, at a competitive price.

WHAT IS FIRE RATED GLASS?

Fire rated glass is specialist glass that has been proven to provide protection against fire – the degree of protection offered will depend on the type of glass but generally the glass acts as a barrier to help prevent the spread of flames and smoke in the event of a fire (integrity). Certain types of fire rated glass will also provide a degree of protection against the heat of a fire (insulation). Once tested, glass is given an official fire protection rating. The degree of protection offered is given in time periods, ranging upwards of 30 minutes. For more detailed information about fire rated glass and the rating system please see our Fire Rated glass page. We can help you use fire resistant glazing as part of an integrated fire safety strategy for your project.

DO I HAVE TO USE FIRE RATED GLASS?

The use of fire rated glass is an important component in building safety and Building Regulations specify where it must be used. The relevant Approved Document sets out very specific requirements in terms of fire safety; including requirements as to the means of escape (providing a safe escape route), preventing fire spread, ensuring the building’s structure and providing safe access to the building in the event of fire. The Regulations state that doors and windows must be fire resistant in certain circumstances and set out the required level of Integrity Period and Insulation Period. For more information please see: www.gov.uk/government/publications/fire-safety-approved-document-b. Speak to us about your requirements – we can advise on whether fire rated glass is needed and what type you should use.

CAN'T I JUST USE SAFETY GLASS INSTEAD?

No, standard Safety Glass is not able to withstand the thermal heat produced during a fire and will not provide an adequate fire resistant barrier as required under the Regulations. We can supply Fire Rated Glass with an Impact Safety Rating but safety glass on its own should not be used where fire resistance is also needed.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FIRE RATED GLASS AND SAFETY GLASS?

Fire Resistant or Fire Rated glass stops or limits the flames, smoke and heat from a fire for a specific period of time depending on the type of glass used and how it is installed. Safety glass is usually Toughened or Laminated Glass that is harder to break and does not shatter in the same way as ordinary glass; either due to the specific processing the glass has undertaken in manufacturing (toughened) or the bonded interlayer within the glass itself (laminated). Safety glass does not, of itself, have any fire resistance. Safety glass is used to protect against injury on impact. It is suitable for locations with a high risk of accidental damage or where there is an increased risk of vandalism.

I NEED TO USE FIRE RESISTANT GLASS – WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS?

We offer a wide range of Fire Resistant Glass to meet your needs ranging from 30/0 to 120/120 in terms of Integrity and Insulation Periods in varying sizes. We stock both Wired and clear fire rated glass. Please use our GLASS SELECTOR to help. If you cannot see what you are looking for or would like to discuss your project in more detail please get in touch. Whatever your requirement we will be able to help.

HOW CAN I BE SURE THE FIRE RESISTANT GLASS DOES WHAT YOU SAY?

Each product supplied has appropriate evidence of its performance; either via a test report, an assessment report or by a third party Certification. Test evidence should include information about the integrity performance of the glass as well as any insulation, the size of the glass and the glazing system used. All our fire rated glass is fully tested and complies with the relevant Fire Test Standards. The following link will take you to our test evidence data: CERTIFICATES.

CAN I INSTALL FIRE RATED GLASS INTO A STANDARD FRAME?

No, the specific Fire Resistant Glazing System as per the test evidence must be used when it is installed. Attention must also be drawn to the type of glass tested; single panes of glass are tested separately to unit pieces and you should not rely on the test evidence of one for the other. We have a specialist installation team who can assist you with your specific project’s needs. Please call us 0121 521 2180

WHEN DO I HAVE TO USE SAFETY GLASS?

Building Regulations set out what is known as ‘Critical Locations’ where Safety Glass must be used to limit the risk of injury from glass on impact. Generally speaking these ‘critical locations’ are:

  • Any glazed area within a window below 800mm from floor level;
  • Any glazed area within a window that is 300mm or less from a door and up to 1500mm from floor level;
  • Any glazed door up to 1500mm from floor level
Please click on the following link for a diagram showing these locations: www.planningportal.gov.uk/buildingregulations/approveddocuments/partk

The Approved Documents for protection against impact with glazing also include requirements around Manifestation of Glazing – making the glass more visible in some way where your project includes large uninterrupted areas of transparent glass. This can be done in the form of a company logo or by broken or unbroken lines of pattern, depending on the aesthetic needs of your project.

We have our own Toughening Plant and can provide you with toughened glass cut to size ranging from 4mm to 25mm in thickness. We also supply Laminated Glass and Wired Glass in various sizes – speak to us about your requirements. All our safety glass is fully tested and complies with the relevant Safety Glass Standards. For more information please see our SAFETY GLASS page.

WHAT IS ENERGY EFFICIENT GLASS?

Energy efficient glass is specialist glass that helps improve the energy efficiency of a building. Specially coated glass can give a greater protection against heat or cold; or both in some circumstances. Glass can be thermally insulated and/or have a conductive coating to increase solar activity. The thermal insulation helps prevent heat escaping and the conductive coating helps capture warmth from natural daylight. If you are looking for high-energy efficiency levels this is the glass for you – speak to us about your specific
requirements.

DO I HAVE TO USE ENERGY EFFICIENT GLASS?

One way of achieving greater energy efficiency is to reduce the amount of heat lost through glazing in windows and doors. Building Regulations also set out specific requirements around energy efficiency and the conservation of fuel and power: if you are installing windows and doors they must comply with the current Regulations regarding the amount of heat that can pass through the glass and framework (the ‘U-Value’). The ‘U-Value’ should not be exceeded and depends on whether your project is an existing or new build and the intended use of the building; generally speaking, the lower the ‘U-Value’ the better the performance of the glass. For more information see: www.gov.uk/government/publications/conservation-of-fuel-and-power-approved-document-l

WHAT IS ACOUSTIC GLASS?

This is specialist glass that considerably reduces outside noise, especially near busy areas such as motorways, main roads and airports. When used in overhead or roof glazing, it can also provide insulation from the noise made by rain hitting the glass. This type of glass has a special bonded layer within it that reduces noise levels by absorbing the sound energy and preventing sound vibrations travelling through the glass. Acoustic glass can help manage noise levels and noise interruption; including the sound of people in open office spaces or schools. Please speak to us about your specific project, as making the right, informed choice is vital in ensuring that you meet any noise level requirements without sacrificing natural light and space. For more information and to see our product range click here: ACOUSTIC GLASS

WHEN DO I HAVE TO USE ACOUSTIC GLASS?

Building Regulations set out what is known as ‘Critical Locations’ where Safety Glass must be used to limit the risk of injury from glass on impact. Generally speaking these ‘critical locations’ are:

  • Any glazed area within a window below 800mm from floor level;
  • Any glazed area within a window that is 300mm or less from a door and up to 1500mm from floor level;
  • Any glazed door up to 1500mm from floor level


Please click on the following link for a diagram showing these locations: WHERE TO USE SAFETY GLASS

Glazing in these ‘critical locations’ must break safely (if it breaks) or be robust enough to resist the impact without breaking, or be in small panes, or be permanently protected.

www.gov.uk/government/publications/resistance-to-sound-approved-document-e

The Approved Documents for protection against impact with glazing also include requirements around ‘Manifestation of Glazing’ – making the glass more visible in some way where your project includes large uninterrupted areas of transparent glass. This can be done in the form of a company logo or by broken or unbroken lines of pattern, depending on the aesthetic needs of your project.

We have our own Toughening Plant and can provide you with toughened glass cut to size ranging from 4mm to 25mm in thickness. We also supply Laminated Glass and Wired Glass in various sizes – speak to us about your requirements. All our safety glass is fully tested and complies with the relevant Safety Glass Standards. For more information please see our SAFETY GLASS page.

DOES FIRE GLASS UK ONLY SUPPLY FIRE RATED GLASS?

No, whilst we are experts in supplying and fitting fire rated, safety or acoustic glass we also supply all types of glass and our experienced installation team are experts in general glass and glazing work and have undertaken many different projects across the UK; including work on large-scale projects and contract work. For more information see: SPECIALIST GLAZING or speak to us about your specific project needs – whatever your requirements we will be able to assist you.

WHAT GLASS DO YOU STOCK?

We stock a wide range of products in all sizes – speak to us to discuss your individual needs. See our SPECIALIST GLASS page for more information.

WHAT PROJECTS HAVE YOU WORKED ON?

The following link will take you to our GALLERY PAGE that highlights some of the recent projects we have been involved in.

WHAT IS A VISION PANEL AND DO I NEED ONE?

Building Regulations provide that doors and side panels in excess of 450mm wide must be provided with viewing panels giving a minimum zone of visibility. The requirement applies to all entrance doors and to those internal doors where vision is appropriate; for example doors on escape routes or where doors are hung to swing both ways. Vision panels may also therefore need to be fire resistant. For more information please see: www.gov.uk/government/publications/protection-from-falling-collision-and-impact-approved-document-k

DO YOU SUPPLY PYROGUARD GLASS?

Fire Glass UK is a major supplier of all major brands of fire rated glass. We stock a wide range of Pyroguard glass brands including Pyrostem, Pyroguard Rapide, Pyroguard Rapide plus and Fire Door 60, ranging from 9–27mm. Pyroguard’s has a trusted reputation built on reliability and on-going innovation. For more information about our Pyroguard glass, please visit: https://fireglassuk.com/pyroguard-glass-products/ or view our Pyroguard data sheets here: https://fireglassuk.com/datasheets/

DO YOU HAVE A FIRE RATED GLASS COST ONLINE?

Instant fire rated glass prices are unavailable online. This is because fire rated glass is a spe- cialist safety glass and needs to be individually quoted for each bespoke project to make sure the type of fire rated glass you require is suitable for your application. If you need a fire rated glass cost, please download our fire product quote sheet, fill in your specification and email back to our estimating department: estimating@fireglassuk.com or if you know what product you want go to that page and there is an online fire quote form.

What is a FIRAS approved contractor?

Fire Glass UK are proud to be FIRAS approved, meaning we have FIRAS certification, which assures to construction industry end users/regulators that if a FIRAS certificated contractor is appointed, the work will be carried out correctly, in accordance with industry standards and material/product manufacturer requirements to provide the required fire protection rating for the building as intended by the specifiers. As an approved FIRAS company we underwent a three stage assessment process before being awarded the certification, which includes: • Assessment of office management systems • Assessment of workmanship of site for all trade disciplines for which certification is sought • Competence assessment of supervisory and installation employees. To find out more you can download our FIRAS leaflet, which goes into more detail: https://www.fireglassuk.com/Downloads/brochures/FIRAS_singles.pdf

Where can I view your FIRAS certification?

You can view our Firas certificate through the link on our accreditations page; https://www.fireglassuk.com/accreditations/ or you can view our profile on the Warrington Fire website: https://www.warringtoncertification.com/certified-companies/details/YM9198/firas

WHY SHOULD I USE FIRE GLASS UK?

We are industry and quality accredited and can help you with all your specialist glass and glazing needs. Fire Glass UK is market leader with branches nationally and strong working relationships with industry specialists across Europe. It’s vital to get the right product for each individual project – we provide the technical know-how, product range and outstanding service as a whole package, at a competitive price.

WHAT IS A BUTT JOINT GLASS PARTITION?

Butt joint glazing is a way of installing glass to provide maximum vision without obstructing vertical frames. With this approach, transparent fire-rated partition walls can be installed. To get the frameless fire-rated glass look, there must be a recessed frame surrounding it that can be hidden in the wall or ceiling.

DO YOU PROVIDE FIRE-RATED GLASS PARTITIONS?

Fire Glass UK provide a specialist cut-size service for glass partitioning. We can provide fire-rated glass with acoustic properties specific to your requirements. To be fire-rated the whole partitioning system needs to be fire-resistant.

I NEED PYROGUARD GLASS

As the Uk's leading supplier of fire-rated glass we are a trusted stockist of a full range of Pyroguard fire-rated glass, as well as other major brands such as AGC's Pyrobel and Pyrobelite and Pilkington™ Pyrostop® and Pyrodur fire-rated glass.

WHAT PILKINGTON GLASS DO YOU STOCK?

We have a full range of Pilkington™ glass in stock at all of our local branches nationwide. This means we are able to provide the glass you need when you want it. Visit our Pilkington™ glass page for more information on our stocked fire-rated glass. https://www.fireglassuk.com/pilkington-glass-products/

WHAT IS THE DIFFEFENCE BETWEEN PYROBEL AND PYROBELITE?

Pyrobel and Pyrobelite fire-rated glass have different fire resistance ratings. Pyrobel complies with the EI classes, from EI30 - EI120, whilst Pyrobelite complies with the EW classes and has a low radiation rating.

WHAT IS A GLASS PARTITION?

Glass partitions are basically internal walls made from glass instead of the usual bricks and mortar. Using glass instead of traditional methods allows light to travel through building spaces making a more open feeling whilst also providing privacy.

Do you supply 30 minute fire-rated glass?

We stock a wide range of fire-rated glass, including Pyroguard, Pryrobel, Pyrobelite, Pyrostop® and Pyrodur® suitable for your budget. View our fire-rated glass page for more information: https://www.fireglassuk.com/fire-rated-glass/

I need a fire rated glass cost

Please email estimating@fireglassuk.com for a quotation based on your specification. Due to the nature and safety aspects of fire-rated glass, we do not give an instant online cost as we have to make sure the glass we supply is fit for purpose.

I need to replace my Fire Door Glass

We work closely with door company customers to ensure correct specification is met. All fire door glass isfully traceable and Certifire accredited. Our fire door glass range is extensive and there are a number of options for both 30 minutes and 60 minutes integrity only or insulation options.

What is Georgian Wired Polished Glass?

Georgian Wired Polished Glass is just a generic glass that is embedded with a wire mesh during production. This helps to hold the glass together in a fire or a breakage.

WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES TO GEORGIAN WIRED GLASS?

Georgian Wired Polished Glass is usually specified for historical reasons. Mainly because the glass is being replaced or to keep in style with the building itself. But, what are the alternatives? • Pyroguard C730 • Pyrobelite 7 • 7mm Pyrodur® All available with short lead times from our well-stocked local branches, with nationwide delivery.

How can I future-proof my wired glass projects?

Fire Glass UK stock many wired glass alternatives including; Pyroguard C730 7.2mm, Pyrobelite 7 and 7mm Pyrodur®. All are perfect alternatives to Georgian Wired Polished Glass and are safer, lighter and more robust.

Do you stock fire-rated wired glass?

Yes, our nationwide network of local branches are well stocked all kinds of fire-rated glass including Georgian Wired Polished Glass. We also stock many suitable alternatives including Pyrostem, Pyroguard C730 7.2mm, Pyrobelite 7 and 7mm Pyrodur®.

I NEED REPLACEMENT GEORGIAN WIRED GLASS CUT TO SIZE

Fire Glass UK can provide cut to size fire-rated glass from our well-stocked branches nationwide. There are many alternatives to Georgian Wired Glass including Pyroguard Rapide which is a cost-effective solution.

WHAT IS USED INSTEAD OF WIRED GLASS?

Filmed and laminated ceramics can be used as an alternative to unsafe traditional wired glass. An example is Pyroguard Rapide.

HOW CAN YOU TELL IF A GLASS IS FIRE RATED?

A permanent stamp is etched onto the glass to indicate it is fire-rated. The name of the glass product, manufacturer/supplier and preferably, the fire performance rating must be shown.

TECHNICAL
SUPPORT

Our technical support and advice sets us apart from anyone else. We will work with you to interpret your specifications and find the right product for the job, at the best price.

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If you have any enquires about our products and services or would like to know more about Fireglass UK. Fill in our form on our contact page and one of our team will get back to you shortly

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