Introduction of revised European cladding testing standard
A revised European standard for cladding fire testing will come into force on 31 January 2026.
According to DBI – The Danish Institute of Fire and Security, the updated method replaces the existing system of visual fire test assessments with a temperature-based approach.
DBI explained that cladding products such as plasterboards and wooden panels must protect underlying materials during fire exposure.
The organisation said current testing relies on visual observation of whether underlying materials, such as particleboard, show signs of charring.
It added that this can lead to inconsistent results between laboratories.
Jeanne B. Kirk, Resistance to Fire Engineer at DBI, said: “It can be a bit subjective and cause variations from lab to lab. Disagreements often arise in borderline cases.”
Temperature-based pass or fail system
DBI confirmed that the new system will determine pass or fail based on measured temperatures.
The standard will use a threshold of whether recorded temperatures rise more than 270°C.
DBI has been directly involved in designing sensor placement for testing to ensure accurate assessment of whether underlying materials risk becoming charred.
Kirk said: “It’s about getting data sets that show how the material actually performs.
“If the temperature exceeds the limit, it automatically fails.
“This makes the conclusion much more objective.”
Adjustments to European classification system
DBI noted that cladding in Europe is classified with K1 10 and K2 30 standards, which indicate protection for 10 and 30 minutes.
It said the revision expands how these classes are documented to prevent products being approved for applications they are not suited for.
The organisation confirmed that the revised rules redefine application areas, ensuring results reflect intended use.
It added that three test substrates will now be used – expanded polystyrene (EPS), low-density materials such as insulation, and particleboard.
Kirk explained: “If you test on EPS, which is considered the worst-case scenario, you are allowed to install your cladding on anything.
“But if you test on insulation, you can only install it on similar low-density materials.
“In both cases, the installation method must be the same as in the test.”
Flexibility for manufacturers in testing
DBI stated that manufacturers will have clearer options under the new approach.
It gave the example of plasterboard producers, who previously needed separate tests for each substrate type.
DBI confirmed that a single test on EPS will now cover multiple substrate types including cellulose, seagrass, PIR, and PUR.
The organisation said this will simplify testing and reduce duplication.
It added that the revision introduces flexibility in fastening methods.
Kirk said: “A lot of people ask why they can’t just test it as a wall – because that’s how it’s actually installed in practice.
“Now this will be possible, but then of course it can only be used as wall cladding.”
She added: “If you test with nails, you will in the future be allowed to use screws in practice – something that was previously not possible without a separate test or an assessment in the European classification system.”
Incorporating bio-based materials
DBI explained that the revision makes it easier to use bio-based materials in construction.
It said the current system requires testing for each product and manufacturer individually.
Under the new method, switching between suppliers will be permitted if the materials are of the same type and have equivalent properties.
Kirk said: “As it stands, you can’t change anything – not thickness, not density, not manufacturer.
“Now we’ll have a standard method that allows switching within the same type.”
Timeline and industry preparation
DBI stated that the revised standard has been in development for seven years.
It confirmed the changes will take effect on 31 January 2026.
The institute recommended that manufacturers begin preparing test procedures now to ensure compliance.
Kirk said: “When you plan a fire test, it typically takes several months.
“So if you start now, you’ll be ready when the standard will come into effect.
“And you already know what you need to test for.”
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The new cladding fire test standard affects how materials are assessed for fire protection across Europe.
Fire engineers will need to understand the implications of moving from visual to temperature-based assessments.
Regulators and testing bodies will apply the revised classification system when approving cladding products.
Fire safety professionals involved in specification and inspection will need to consider the new substrate-based testing approach and documentation requirements.
New European cladding fire test standard to take effect in 2026: Summary
A revised European cladding fire test standard will come into force on 31 January 2026.
DBI – The Danish Institute of Fire and Security reported that the new system replaces visual assessments with a temperature-based method.
Pass or fail will be determined by whether recorded temperatures exceed 270°C.
DBI contributed to sensor placement design in the testing setup.
Cladding classifications K1 10 and K2 30 will have updated documentation rules.
Three new standard test substrates will be used – EPS, low-density insulation, and particleboard.
A single EPS test will apply to multiple substrate types.
Wall-mounted testing will be allowed if cladding is intended for vertical use.
Flexibility in fastening methods will be introduced.
Bio-based materials will be easier to incorporate under the revised standard.
Switching between suppliers of equivalent bio-based products will be permitted.
The standard has been in development for seven years.
It will take effect on 31 January 2026.
DBI advises manufacturers to begin testing preparations immediately.
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