I can’t believe it has been more than 10 years since I researched the requirements of the codes and standards and wrote about traditional wired glass and other glazing in the article called Breaking Tradition. The article addresses changes to the International Building Code (IBC) with regard to impact-resistance, but it doesn’t delve into the requirements for fire-rated glass and framing.
Fortunately, a wealth of information on glazing for fire door and window assemblies can be found on TGP’s website! Topics include:
- Intro to Fire-Rated Glass and Framing
- Fire-Rated Glass Testing
- Fire-Rated Glass Codes
- Fire-Rated Glazing Applications
- Innovations in Fire-Rated Glazing
- Common Misconceptions About Fire-Rated Glazing
These pages answer many of the common questions about fire-rated glazing, but if you have additional questions, just leave them in the comments and I’ll track down the answers!
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Lori, there is a LOT of confusion out there related to fire-resistive vs. fire-protective but more specifically about ASTM E-119. Where it’s used, when it’s used, where products that meet ASTM E-119 should be specified. We see architects often trying to just tuck them into standard hollow metal door and frame specs and even into flush wood door specs. These are substantially different test standards and should not be grouped into the same spec section.
A read of ASTM E119-20 clearly shows that it is specific to “…walls, partitions, and floor or roof test specimens.” No mention at all of doors, frames or opening protectives. The fact that there are now transparent wall systems that meet this standard (with accompanying doors) is a testament to innovation but these products are not intended to replace traditional doors and frames, but to expand design possibilities.
We have a job where a change was just issued adding E-119 requirements to about a dozen openings with no explanation. Especially since most are flush doors in standard 3-sided frames.
I would love to see an article from you or one of your Allegion associates addressing this. I predict a lot of shares.
Thanks Raymond –
I do have this article from a while ago, but this is still kind of a mysterious topic.
https://idighardware.com/2016/01/decoded-fire-protection-rated-vs-fire-resistance-rated-assemblies-march-2016/
I will see if TGP can help.
– Lori