Fire-rated glass ceramic, such as the FireLite family of products from TGP, is available with 20- to 90-minute fire ratings for door assemblies. It can often be used in the maximum size (as tested by an independent testing agency) in fire-rated doors depending on the required fire rating. However, in some cases, building codes limit fire-protective glass to 100-square inch lites in doors with temperature-rise requirements, such as those in exit enclosures and passageways.
If the design calls for a full-lite glazed door to boost visibility, improve wayfinding or create a bright, open entry, a code-approved alternative is fire-resistive glass, such as TGP’s Pilkington Pyrostop® fire-rated, impact safety-rated transparent door panels. Since it can defend against flames, smoke and heat transfer, it is not limited to 100-square inches, even in doors with temperature-rise requirements.
There are also a number of compatible fire-protective and fire-resistive door and framing systems. Products like TGP’s Fireframes® Designer Series and Fireframes Heat Barrier Series not only provide a sleek, modern alternative to traditional hollow metal steel frames, but are also available in a wide array of colors, materials and finishes. Their slender form and design flexibility helps prevent scenarios in which the fire-rated doors and frames provide the necessary fire protection, but thick frame profiles are a visual disconnect with neighboring non-rated door, window and curtain wall applications. Both Fireframes Designer Series and Fireframes Heat Barrier Series doors are compatible with several of TGP’s framing lines, such as Fireframes Aluminum Series and Fireframes Curtainwall Series.
A common misconception is that high-performance fire-rated glass doors are cost prohibitive. With increasingly restricted budgets, those who are used to working primarily with traditional, polished wired glass sometimes ask if modern high-performance, wireless fire-rated glazing is worth the extra cost. With today’s wide range of products, from ceramic glazing to transparent fire-resistive glass, TGP can typically help you find a solution that meets your project’s budget.
Where an initial investment with advanced fire-rated glass door assemblies may be greater than expected, TGP can help the design professionals and building owner understand what life safety and performance benefits they’re purchasing. For example, the typical K-12 school building is designed to last 30 years or more, which provides a lengthy amount of time to amortize the costs of critical life safety products. In addition, while a low-cost option might save on upfront expenses, it can lead to high costs from accidents, injuries or repairs in the future.
