Forza Doors has reported a 14% increase in annual revenue as it marks 15 years of trading.
New European cladding fire test standard to take effect in 2026
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.
ASFP TG7 advances work on fire curtain standards
The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has reported that its Technical Group 7 (TG7) is continuing efforts to advance standards and certification for active fire curtain barriers.
Light Science Technologies expands passive fire protection projects in UK
Light Science Technologies has announced that its Passive Fire Protection division has secured two new contracts worth about £0.45m.
Classifying the future with Warringtonfire: What EN 13501 means for compliance
As EN 13501 replaces BS 476, Peter Barker, Technical Policy Manager at Element Materials Technology, examines what manufacturers must understand to ensure compliance and readiness
On 2 September 2024, the UK Government formally announced the withdrawal of the National Classes fire testing standards from Approved Document B.
These will be replaced by the EN 13501 series of European classification standards.
Since the consultation process began, the construction and manufacturing sectors have engaged in extensive discussions regarding the implications of this shift – from the technical distinctions between BS 476 and EN 13501, to the financial and logistical demands of adapting to the new testing regime.
Concerns have also been raised about the adequacy of the transition period and the capacity of UK testing facilities.
Peter Barker, Technical Policy Manager at Element Materials Technology, offers further insight into the changes.
An overview of the BS 476 fire testing standards
Originally introduced in 1932, the BS 476 standard established a framework for evaluating the fire performance of construction materials and building components.
The standard encompassed three primary areas: incombustibility, non-inflammability (reaction to fire), and resistance to fire (structure and containment).
Over time, the standard evolved into a suite of parts, each addressing specific performance criteria.
For instance, BS 476: Part 22 focuses on non-load-bearing elements and is used in conjunction with Part 20 to evaluate products such as doorsets and partitions.
The BS 476 series outlines the conditions under which fire performance tests are conducted, as well as the criteria for evaluating results.
The outcome of such testing is documented in a test report, which includes a detailed description of the tested product, the test method employed, and the performance achieved.
These reports serve as benchmarks for comparing similar products and determining their suitability for use in buildings under applicable regulatory frameworks.
In the UK, assessments of fire performance based on BS 476 are often extended through expert judgement.
These assessments are conducted by competent professionals in accordance with the guidelines set out by the Passive Fire Protection Forum (PFPF), which define both the process and the competency requirements for assessors.
It is important to note that the methodology for extending the scope of tested designs under BS 476 differs significantly from the rule-based system used for EN classification.
This distinction underscores the complexity of transitioning to EN 13501, which involves more than a simple reapplication of existing test data.
Introducing the EN 13501 classification framework
The EN 13501 series was developed by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) in response to mandates from the European Commission.
Its purpose is to provide a harmonised system for testing and classifying construction products across the European Union, thereby eliminating trade barriers and establishing a common technical language.
The EN classification system supports the Construction Products Regulation (CPR) and is underpinned by standardised test methods that determine product performance.
It includes provisions for both Direct Application (DIAP) and Extended Application (EXAP), which allow for the extension of test results to cover a broader range of product configurations.
These rules are maintained and updated by CEN working groups composed of experts from across Europe.
Although originally designed to facilitate the EU single market, the EN 13501 system has been adopted within UK building regulations to define performance requirements for both regulated and non-regulated construction products.
These requirements are tailored to the product type, building design, and intended use.
Rationale behind the regulatory shift
Historically, both BS 476 and EN 13501 have been recognised in Approved Document B as a valid means of demonstrating fire performance.
However, the UK Government has now committed to a single, unified classification system.
This decision aligns with recommendations from the Hackitt Report, which called for a more transparent and effective regulatory framework for building safety.
The withdrawal of BS 476 is being implemented in stages.
A six-month transition period granted for reaction to fire and external fire exposure to roofs came to an end on 2nd March 2025, with references to BS 476 no longer included in Approved Document B, though specific exemptions are in place for some projects already underway.
A five-year period ending in September 2029 applies to resistance to fire.
The phased approach was provided to industry by UK government to facilitate a smooth transition to the European standards without being disruptive to supply chains.
Challenges for manufacturers transitioning to EN 13501
The move from BS 476 to EN 13501 presents several technical and operational challenges for manufacturers:
- Incompatibility of test evidence: Results obtained under BS 476 cannot be used to generate classifications under EN 13501.
- The EN system requires performance data derived from specific EN test methods.
- Scope extension: The EN framework employs DIAP and EXAP rules to extend the applicability of test results.
- A test programme based on BS 476 is unlikely to yield the same scope of application when re-evaluated under EN standards.
- Increased testing requirements: Depending on the breadth of a manufacturer’s product range, a substantial number of new tests may be necessary to achieve EN classification.
- This must be accomplished within a limited timeframe, alongside competing demands from other manufacturers.
- Product redesign: In some cases, existing products may need to be modified to meet the performance thresholds defined by EN test methods.
Practical steps for preparing for the transition
With the government’s direction now clearly established, manufacturers are encouraged to begin the transition to EN 13501 without delay.
While the timing of this shift is ultimately at the discretion of each manufacturer, early engagement will help ensure continued market access and regulatory compliance.
Manufacturers should begin by cataloguing their product range and sharing this information with their chosen test laboratory.
This enables the development of a reverse-engineered test programme based on DIAP or EXAP rules.
Given the complexity of this process – particularly when multiple performance characteristics are involved – it is essential to work with laboratories that possess deep expertise in EN testing and classification.
Warringtonfire, for example, has extensive experience in conducting EN tests and preparing classification reports, with over 20 experts working across testing and technical services that actively contribute to the CEN working groups that help develop the EN test, EXAP and classification standards across many different products.
Their support can be instrumental in navigating the transition and ensuring that products meet the requirements of the EN 13501 series.
Supporting manufacturers through the transition
Following the launch of the government consultation, one of the key concerns raised by manufacturers – and echoed in the Independent Review of the Construction Products Testing Regime, led by Paul Morrell OBE and Anneliese Day KC – was the issue of laboratory testing capacity.
Warringtonfire’s capabilities are bolstered by three UKAS-accredited laboratories located within the UK, as well as a BELAC-accredited facility in Belgium.
These sites are equipped to conduct EN testing across a wide range of methods, covering both reaction to fire and resistance to fire for numerous construction product types.
To further address the growing demand for testing services, Warringtonfire has made a significant investment in a new 101,000-square-foot facility in Warrington.
This state-of-the-art site, which officially opened in January 2025, expands the organisation’s capacity to support manufacturers during this period of regulatory transformation.
The construction products sector is undergoing one of the most consequential regulatory shifts in recent decades, particularly in the area of fire safety.
Warringtonfire remains committed to assisting clients and the wider industry throughout this transition.
With accreditation to European standards and extensive experience in preparing EXAP reports and EN 13501 classifications, Warringtonfire will continue to deliver essential testing and certification services to ensure compliance and uphold safety standards.
For more about Warringtonfire and its new Birchwood Park laboratory, or to book for 2025, please visit Warringtonfire.com.
This was originally published in the August 2025 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.
More than meets the façade: Tackling hidden balcony fire risks
James McCallan of Anamore explains why balcony remediation is vital to high-rise safety, covering fire risks, new regulations and integration with façade works.
New firestopping tests could change how engineers design with cellular beams
Promat and FSi Promat develop cellular beam firestopping solution
Promat has reported the launch of a new firestopping system designed for use with cellular steel beams in the UK.
According to Promat, the tested solution has been developed in collaboration with its sister company FSi Promat and independently evaluated in laboratory settings.
The system allows building services to pass through openings in cellular beams while maintaining compartmentation performance of up to 120 minutes.
Promat explained that protecting structural steel is essential to maintaining the stability of a building during fire incidents, giving time for occupants to evacuate and for fire services to respond.
The company stated that the new solution helps meet the guidance of the Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) yellow book, which requires specific testing for cellular beams due to their different performance under fire compared with solid beams.
Fire testing and compliance
Promat reported that it worked with independent laboratories to develop a testing methodology that accounts for the unique properties of cellular beams.
The company said the solution was tested to BS EN 1363-1 integrity and insulation requirements.
It added that the combination of Promat and FSi Promat systems was shown to maintain compartmentation for up to 120 minutes under laboratory conditions.
According to the business, cellular beams lose structural integrity at lower temperatures than solid beams, requiring tailored firestopping strategies.
The organisation indicated that the tested method closes openings in beams with Stopseal Batt and Pyrocoustic sealant and uses VERMICULUX-S to box in steel sections.
Structural considerations in building projects
Josh Slack, Commercial Director at Promat, said: “Used frequently in construction, cellular beams use less steel than solid beams to span greater distances and allow services to pass through, which supports space efficient design and ease of application.
“However, this material difference in the steel needs to be accommodated when protecting steel structures from the threat of fire.
“Even where services are not passing through the openings, cellular beams will typically require a greater board thickness.
“Specifiers need to take this into account when planning special co-ordination. Promat can assist with this determining the thickness of board required for different cellular beams, ideally at an early stage in the project.”
Joint development with FSi Promat
According to Promat, the system was co-developed with FSi Promat to integrate firestopping within steelwork protection.
Craig Abbott, Technical Director at FSi Promat, said: “In testing a batt and mastic solution within the frames we have built in the usability that contractors want to see from cellular beams whilst maintaining a high level of passive fire protection.
“Accommodating service penetrations is part and parcel of building design, and the better equipped we are to provide a tested solution to support the various installations used, the easier specification becomes.
“It is great to be able to offer a joint approach to support integrated testing to provide a go-to solution for protecting cellular beams in the event of a fire.”
Guidance for specifiers and contractors
Promat explained that cellular beams often require more complex fire protection strategies than solid beams.
The organisation noted that the tested system gives designers and contractors a reference solution for projects where services must run through beams along compartment lines.
It reported that the tested solution helps address a gap in formal BS EN standards covering compartmentation in steelwork protection.
The company advised that early coordination is important to ensure board thickness and detailing meet performance expectations for different beam specifications.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The development is relevant for fire engineers and safety professionals responsible for building compliance and design review.
It provides a tested system option for projects using cellular beams where service penetrations cross compartment lines.
The testing adds reference data where current BS EN standards do not fully cover cellular steel beam firestopping.
This information may assist professionals in specification, inspection and compliance verification.
Promat and FSi Promat develop cellular beam firestopping solution: Summary
Promat has reported a new firestopping system for cellular steel beams in the UK.
The solution was developed with FSi Promat and tested in independent laboratories.
It maintains compartmentation for up to 120 minutes.
The system uses Stopseal Batt, Pyrocoustic sealant and VERMICULUX-S.
Testing was aligned with ASFP yellow book guidance and BS EN 1363-1.
Cellular beams lose integrity faster than solid beams under fire conditions.
The solution was developed due to the lack of a BS EN standard for compartmentation in cellular beams.
Josh Slack of Promat said cellular beams require special consideration in fire protection design.
Craig Abbott of FSi Promat said the solution combines usability with passive protection.
Promat reported that the tested solution offers contractors a method to protect beams while allowing services to pass through.
The companies said it supports building projects needing firestopping at compartment lines.
Promat noted that early specification helps determine board thickness for different beam types.
The testing was confirmed to maintain compartmentation for 120 minutes.
The development is aimed at assisting compliance in fire engineering projects.
It provides reference data for safety professionals working with cellular beam construction.
Passive fire protection and structural movement in UK buildings
Movement challenges in passive fire protection
The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) has reported on the need for greater focus on how building movement affects passive fire protection systems in the UK.
According to ASFP, structural movement can occur for several reasons, including dynamic loads, environmental pressures, material-specific behaviour, and thermal expansion during fire events.
It explained that these movements create risks for the long-term performance of firestopping systems, particularly where rigid materials are used around services or wall heads.
The body highlighted two types of movement: deflection, which is the displacement of structural elements such as slabs and partitions, and service movement, where cables, pipes, or ducts supported by soffits move and strain fire seals.
While products are available to address wall head deflection, ASFP noted that movement at service penetrations remains underrepresented in both testing and design standards.
Limitations in current UK guidance
ASFP reported that UK guidance such as Approved Document B does reference deflection movement but provides limited clarity.
The organisation explained that a nominal figure of 40mm is often used, but this is sometimes misunderstood.
It stated that the figure reflects an upper limit between unsupported elements and is not suitable as a blanket requirement across all building types or details.
ASFP added that misapplication of this value in design and installation can lead to incompatible or untestable solutions.
The association advised that further clarity is required in standards and practice to prevent overestimation or misinterpretation of movement allowances.
Testing service penetrations under movement
ASFP outlined that current fire test standards, such as BS EN 1366-3 for service penetrations, do not address service movement during fire exposure.
It explained that although BS EN 1366-4 Annex B includes a methodology for joint seal movement testing, there is little guidance on how services shifting within a sealed aperture behave in a fire.
To address this gap, Nullifire worked with Warringtonfire to create a hydraulic test rig that simulates wall movement before fire exposure.
ASFP said that the method, known as the “bouncy wall test”, aimed to replicate real-world conditions by applying stress before ignition.
The association noted that the test challenges the rigidity of current standards by reflecting the reality of long-term building use before any fire occurs.
Unrealistic movement requirements in design briefs
ASFP commented that design briefs sometimes request movement allowances of ±25mm to ±100mm, which it described as unrealistic.
It reported that movement of this scale would suggest structural deflection beyond acceptable performance.
The organisation explained that these figures can be carried forward unchallenged from early design through to procurement, resulting in unsuitable specifications.
It advised that accurate analysis of structural behaviour is needed to avoid arbitrary or excessive values being applied.
The group stated that heat maps and structural load analysis may be useful tools for setting more realistic allowances.
The role of education and engagement
ASFP emphasised the importance of early engagement between designers, specifiers, and contractors in understanding structural behaviour and passive fire protection performance.
It reported that greater awareness of material behaviour and mechanical support can help improve detailing at penetrations and deflection heads.
The association noted that training and technical dialogue are essential to prevent fire safety gaps arising from misunderstanding structural movement.
It stated that manufacturers and engineers should provide evidence-based clarity to support compliant solutions rather than rely on assumptions.
The body added that this work forms part of a wider industry effort to improve standards and testing for long-term building safety.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
For fire and safety professionals, the ASFP’s report highlights the need to consider service and deflection movement as part of passive fire protection design.
The focus on movement testing methods shows how real-world performance may differ from laboratory results.
Understanding structural behaviour helps prevent failures in firestopping systems over time.
Professionals involved in design, specification, and installation may need to engage more closely with engineers and manufacturers to align expectations with realistic structural allowances.
Passive fire protection and structural movement in UK buildings: Summary
The Association for Specialist Fire Protection (ASFP) reported on movement in passive fire protection.
ASFP said structural movement occurs due to loads, environmental factors, material behaviour, and thermal expansion.
It stated that this movement threatens firestop system integrity at wall heads and service penetrations.
The group said Approved Document B provides vague guidance with a nominal 40mm allowance that is often misapplied.
It reported that BS EN 1366-3 does not address service movement and BS EN 1366-4 Annex B gives limited methodology.
Nullifire and Warringtonfire developed a “bouncy wall test” to simulate real conditions.
The group said some design briefs request unrealistic allowances of ±25mm to ±100mm.
ASFP advised using structural analysis and heat maps for realistic allowances.
It said education and early engagement are necessary to improve fire safety.
The association stated that manufacturers and engineers must provide compliant, evidence-based solutions.
What the latest FSi Promat sustainability data reveals about carbon in construction
New EPDs published for UK fire safety products
FSi Promat has announced the publication of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for two of its products, reporting verified data on their environmental performance.
According to FSi Promat, the EPDs cover the Pyrocoustic Sealant and Stopseal Coating, both used in fire stopping applications across the UK construction sector.
The manufacturer stated that the declarations were prepared in line with ISO 14025 and EN150804+A2:2019, standards that define third party-verified environmental reporting.
It explained that this step reflects its focus on sustainability in both product development and manufacturing.
The company noted that these publications are intended to support architects, specifiers and contractors with decision-making on material selection.
Environmental performance of Pyrocoustic Sealant
FSi Promat reported that Pyrocoustic Sealant is used to reinstate fire resistance in wall and floor constructions where linear gaps or service penetrations occur.
The company explained that the new EPD sets the cradle-to-gate Global Warming Potential of this product at 1.0 kgCO2-eq./kg.
It added that the total embodied carbon score, across modules A1–A5 and C, is 1.3 kgCO2-eq./kg.
The manufacturer stated that these metrics are provided to allow accurate comparisons with alternative solutions.
It continued that the results show the carbon footprint across both manufacturing and installation phases.
Environmental performance of Stopseal Coating
The manufacturer reported that Stopseal Coating is an ablative coating used with the Stopseal Batt System to reinstate fire resistance in wall constructions with service penetrations.
FSi Promat explained that the cradle-to-gate Global Warming Potential of this coating is 0.7 kgCO2-eq./kg.
It noted that the EPD findings contribute to life cycle analysis of building projects.
The company added that these figures provide designers and contractors with reference data when assessing the environmental footprint of products.
It said that the data reflects a low carbon profile during manufacturing and use.
Manufacturing with renewable electricity
According to FSi Promat, both the Pyrocoustic Sealant and Stopseal Coating are manufactured at its facility in Measham.
The company stated that this facility now runs on 100% renewable electricity.
It explained that this transition forms part of its sustainability programme.
The manufacturer indicated that the move further reduces the environmental impact of its UK production.
It added that this milestone complements the product-level declarations.
Industry perspective on sustainability reporting
Emma Taylor, Marketing Manager at FSi Promat, said: “The addition of the EPDs underlines the dedication at FSi Promat to developing sustainable solutions that continue to meet high standards of safety and performance.
“The cradle-to-gate score is useful when selecting products as it provides a clear picture of its carbon footprint from the raw material right through to installation.
“This information helps users to understand and compare the environmental impact of the products they use, and to make an informed choice.
“Providing transparent environmental credentials, as a result of third-party evaluation, is one of the key ways in which we support architects, specifiers, and contractors towards a safer, more sustainable future. This commitment aligns with the broader construction industry’s shift towards more sustainable building methods.”
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
Environmental Product Declarations are becoming standard across construction materials, including those for fire stopping.
For fire and safety professionals, access to independently verified sustainability data provides evidence to support compliance with environmental standards and procurement requirements.
The UK facility’s transition to renewable electricity also shows how sustainability targets are now linked directly to manufacturing practice.
Understanding the carbon impact of safety products is increasingly relevant for professionals engaged in project design, approvals and material selection.
FSi Promat sustainability declarations released for UK fire stopping products: Summary
FSi Promat has published Environmental Product Declarations for Pyrocoustic Sealant and Stopseal Coating.
The company reported that these declarations provide verified carbon footprint data.
The Pyrocoustic Sealant has a cradle-to-gate Global Warming Potential of 1.0 kgCO2-eq./kg.
Its total embodied carbon score across A1–A5 and C modules is 1.3 kgCO2-eq./kg.
The Stopseal Coating has a cradle-to-gate Global Warming Potential of 0.7 kgCO2-eq./kg.
Both products are manufactured at the company’s Measham facility in the UK.
The Measham facility now operates using 100% renewable electricity.
FSi Promat stated that these publications follow ISO 14025 and EN150804+A2:2019 standards.
The company said the data supports architects, specifiers and contractors in evaluating product environmental performance.
It added that the EPDs provide transparency through third party verification.
Emma Taylor, Marketing Manager at FSi Promat, said the declarations align with industry shifts towards sustainable building methods.
She stated that transparent data helps project stakeholders make informed choices.
Ahlstrom expands fire protection technology in building materials
Ahlstrom introduces new facer with fire protection technology
Ahlstrom has announced the release of a new facer using its Flame-Gard technology for the building and construction sector.
According to Ahlstrom, the facer is designed to improve fire protection by charring rather than supporting combustion, and by self-extinguishing once the flame source is removed.
The company said the material also strengthens insulation boards, helping them remain flat during manufacturing and use.
It added that the facer balances high flame resistance with low water absorption, two features it noted are often difficult to achieve together.
Ahlstrom explained that the technology was developed in response to rising regulatory requirements and market demand for flame-retardant materials.
Mechanical and thermal performance
Ahlstrom reported that the facer enhances mechanical strength, ensuring insulation boards maintain their shape through production and service life.
The organisation stated that the facer reduces the risk of deformation, creasing, or cracks during lamination.
It added that the facer can be laminated with aluminium foil or insulation foam to support different construction applications.
The company confirmed the facer is available in a natural, unbleached version intended to align with sustainability targets.
It explained that the product is free from halogens, bromine, and chlorine-based compounds.
Moisture resistance and durability
Ahlstrom advised that the facer can be surface-sized to reduce water absorption.
It reported that this treatment lowers the risk of delamination if boards are exposed to moisture during use.
The organisation added that the material’s in-plane structure supports durability during handling and installation.
According to the company, this combination of resistance and strength was intended to meet long-term building performance needs.
It indicated that the design aimed to address the dual challenges of fire safety and moisture control in insulation materials.
Regulatory context and market demand
Ahlstrom stated that the Flame-Gard technology addresses increasing awareness of fire safety and tighter building codes worldwide.
The group explained that stricter standards have increased demand for materials that can both resist flames and remain durable in construction environments.
It reported that the facer was developed to help manufacturers meet current compliance obligations and anticipate future regulatory changes.
The company added that by aligning with these standards, the facer supports safer building design and material selection.
It commented that the development reflects broader sector changes in fire safety requirements for insulation products.
Production process and material supply
Ahlstrom explained that the facer is manufactured in an integrated mill, where both pulp and paper are produced.
The organisation reported that this process enables efficiency and control across the production chain.
It said that the integration of pulp and paper production helps ensure quality consistency in each batch.
The company added that the controlled process allows greater oversight of sustainability and performance outcomes.
It stated that this approach is intended to ensure the product meets both operational and environmental expectations.
Industry perspective
Eva Thunholm, Vice President of Technical Materials at Ahlstrom, said: “With Ahlstrom’s Flame-Gard technology, customers can enhance the fire performance of their final products and meet the required regulatory standards.
“With Ahlstrom’s Flame-Gard technology, customers can enhance the fire performance of their final products and meet the required regulatory standards.
“The technology can be applied to various substrates making it a flexible solution.”
Thunholm added that the product’s adaptability supported different applications in insulation and construction.
She explained that its flexibility allowed manufacturers to incorporate fire-resistant features across multiple substrate types.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
For fire and safety professionals, Ahlstrom’s new facer highlights the increasing integration of fire protection into construction materials.
The development illustrates how manufacturers are aligning material design with stricter building codes.
It provides insight into the technical methods being used to meet compliance, including balancing fire resistance with water control.
The product also reflects a trend toward sustainability in fire-resistant materials, as the natural, unbleached version responds to both performance and environmental considerations.
Ahlstrom expands fire protection technology in building materials: Summary
Ahlstrom has released a new facer with Flame-Gard technology for the construction sector.
According to Ahlstrom, the facer chars during fire exposure but does not sustain combustion and will self-extinguish when the flame source is removed.
The company said the facer strengthens insulation boards, improves fire resistance, and controls water absorption.
It added that the facer reduces deformation and can be laminated with aluminium foil or insulation foam.
Ahlstrom stated that the product avoids halogens, bromine, and chlorine-based compounds and is available in a natural, unbleached version.
The organisation confirmed the facer can be surface-sized to lower water absorption and limit delamination.
It reported that the facer is produced in an integrated mill for efficiency and control.
Eva Thunholm, Vice President of Technical Materials, said the technology enhances fire performance and supports regulatory compliance.
Ahlstrom noted that the facer addresses rising building code requirements for flame-retardant materials.
It stated that the product combines fire resistance, moisture durability, and sustainability in one design.