Everything You Need To Know To Find The Best fire and glass

03 Apr.,2024

 

Glass is vital to the aesthetic of nearly every modern structure—increasing natural light, curbing sound, protecting against inclement weather and offering a view to the external world. While glass has always been favored for its aesthetic versatility, it has quietly and reliably evolved into a critical component that can add beauty, structural integrity and fire protection to rooms and buildings, as well.

Fire-rated glass is classified as a life-safety building material. Governed by the International Building Code (IBC), the glass is rated according to how it performs in standardized testing that measures the amount of time it will help stop the spread of fire and smoke. Typical clear window glass will fail at temperature differences approaching 250 degrees F. High-performance, fire-rated glasses, which typically look similar to standard window glass, can protect people and property in temperatures exceeding 1,600 degrees F.

Fire-rated glass is divided into two distinct categories: fire-protective and fire-resistive glass. To effectively protect occupants and the structural integrity of buildings, it is vital that glass specifiers, designers and other building professionals understand the performance and tolerances specified within each category and, even more important, the key differences between the two types. The first step is to understand how glass is fire tested.

Fire Testing

In its most basic terms, fire-rated glass is categorized according to the amount of time it stays in place and effectively compartmentalizes fire and smoke. Formal testing procedures for glass fire ratings are standardized in American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) E 119, Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building & Construction Materials.

During these tests, fire-rated glass is subjected to temperatures exceeding 1,600 degrees for 45 minutes or longer. Based on the amount of time the glass remained fixed in place, it is assigned a 20-, 45- or 60- minute (or longer) fire rating. The rate by which temperatures increase during these tests also is regulated to simulate stages of an actual fire.

After being heated according to ASTM guidelines, the glass is then subjected to a hose-stream test in keeping with simulated fire scenarios. In accordance with NFPA 257 Standard on Fire Test for Window and Glass Block Assemblies, last updated in 2017, the hose stream test applies an even stream of water to the glass from a two-man fire hose. The test simulates the rapid cooling of glass when exposed to water, which forecasts its ability to stay intact during activation of sprinklers or fire extinguishment by safety personnel.

Certain applications also require impact testing based on the area of coverage. Impact tests, which are made with a pendulum-based strike using a standardized weight, determine the resistance and strength of glass against breakage. The height of the drop determines the level of impact resistance for adherence to code.

The results of these standardized tests—expressed in time—enable architects and designers to choose glass products that will meet code for specific applications. In most instances, these results must be documented through labeling.

Performance Labeling

In 2012, the IBC began requiring fire-rated glazing to include a product label that building and design professionals could use to identify a product’s performance capabilities. The labels clearly state which tests the glass has passed, the building applications most appropriate for its use, conformance with test criteria and prescribed fire rating.

These labels correlate with codes designating specific performance characteristics and limits for glass based on their fire-resistive or fire-protective capabilities, as well as the impact resistance of installed glass.

Fire-Protective Glass

Fire-protective glass commonly includes special tempered glass, as well as ceramics and hollow metal framing. Although such glazings are engineered to protect against the spread of flames and smoke—and to achieve fire ratings that range from 20 to 180 minutes—they are still restricted by code to specific applications. The main restricting factor for fire-protective glass is that it is not designed to prevent transmission of radiant heat.

As a result of their potential for transmitting radiant heat, glasses rated as fire-protective cannot exceed 25% of the total area of a wall. For that reason, fire-protective glass is most commonly specified for use within opening-protective assemblies, 1-hour walls and door vision panels. Other permitted applications for fire-protective glass include doors and openings of less than 100 square inches in size.

Due to variations by application and locality, fire-protective glass also may be subject to additional testing standards, including:

  • NFPA 252 – Standard Methods of Fire Tests of Door Assemblies
  • NFPA 257 – Standard on Fire Tests for Window and Glass Block Assemblies
  • Underwriters Laboratories (UL) 9 – Standard for Safety Fire Tests of Window Assemblies
  • UL 10 B – Fire Tests of Door Assemblies
  • UL 10 C – Positive Pressure Fire Tests of Door Assemblies

It is essential to research such localized variations to ensure compliance.

Fire-Resistive Glass

The primary differentiator of fire-resistive (sometimes called fire-resistant) glass is its ability to restrict radiant heat. Fire-resistive glass will not conduct heat—protecting occupants from extreme temperature transmission through the glass, as well as ignition of additional potential fires sparked by radiant heat.

Fire-resistive glass restricts fire and smoke for longer periods of time and has demonstrated, through testing, that it will limit temperatures to 250 degrees F or less on its protected side for the duration of its designated time rating. In addition to having fire ratings of 20 minutes to three hours, fire-resistive glass also has a wide range of prescribed applications.

To prevent the transmission of radiant heat, fire-resistive glazings are manufactured with several layers of intumescent materials that swell and turn opaque when subjected to heat. The expansion of these layers creates a barrier that prevents heat radiation and thereby protects occupants of the building or room. When activated, these intumescent materials can extend protection from radiant heat by up to three hours—depending on the specified glazing.

This level of protection enables fire-resistive glass to be specified for enclosures (including stairwells), interior dividers, exit corridors and other applications where fire barriers are required. In addition, the use of fire-resistive glass dramatically limits code restrictions on size and applications for use.

Due to variations by application and locality, fire-resistive glass also may be subject to additional testing standards, including:

  • ASTM E-119 – Standard Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials
  • NFPA 251 – Standard Methods of Test of Fire Resistance of Building and Construction Materials
  • UL 263 – Fire Tests of Building Construction Materials.

Framing Requirements

Framing elements for fire-protective and fire-resistive glazings must achieve the same levels of compliance, meaning they have been tested to stay in place for the same amount of time during a fire as the glasses they contain. Today’s test protocols normally require that the whole product, including the glazing and framing materials, be subjected to the specified testing.

In fire-protective scenarios, where neither the glass nor framing are required to provide a radiant barrier, metal framing is frequently used. Hollow metal framing used with 45-minute fire-protective glass must be able to hold the glass in place for at least 45 minutes.

Likewise, in scenarios where fire-resistive glass is specified, the framing also must block the radiation of heat for the rated time period. To achieve the required levels of fire-resistance, framing material is typically coated with glazing or insulation that meets appropriate code and testing requirements.

Summary and Additional Information

Understanding the differences between fire-protective and fire-resistive glass is vital to code compliance and occupant safety, as each term explicitly defines the type and volume of glass that can be used in a given application.

In summary, fire-protective glass is tested to measure its ability to prevent the spread of fire and smoke during its prescribed rating period. Fire-resistive glass performs the same function, yet also restricts the spread of radiant heat to protect occupants and prevents combustion. To achieve code compliance, framing elements must match the prescribed level of fire rating for the glass and glazing.

IBC requires that fire-protective and fire-resistive glass be labeled to indicate their designated levels of protection. It is important for specifiers of fire-rated glass to know how to interpret the labeling so the products they specify for a specific application meet all related codes in a particular jurisdiction.

ASTM, IBC, NFPA and UL provide detailed information for understanding codes, standards, testing and applications. To learn more about fire-rated glass and how to determine which option is best suited for a specific application, visit vitroglazings.com.

Learn more about our full line of Low-E Glass products.

Fire glass colors come in a seemingly never-ending spectrum. While we invite you to think differently, our design experts tell us the most popular colors of fire glass ordered by our other clients are black, clear, copper, and blue. Be sure to check out our Free Outdoor Living Design service, where our experts can help you find the perfect fire glass to complement your fire feature. Trust our guidance and you’ll have that toasty, romantic, downright evocative firelight in no time!

In addition to the shapes and sizes of your fire glass there are accessories available to you and your fire pit. These decorative elements—such as fire pit branches, stones, and lava rocks—hold up to high heat without discoloring or cracking, enhancing your set piece with a personalized finish. As most fire pit décor appears as natural elements use them thoughtfully to build displays or scenes that enhance your outdoor space.

To know exactly how much fire glass is needed to fill your fire feature, you’ll need the physical dimensions of that feature. Once you’ve got those measurements, plug them right into that Fire Glass Calculator for your exact volume needed. We recommend piling fire glass no higher than 1–2 inches over the top of the burner. Any further and you’ll make that flame work harder to push through the glass. Always consult those owner’s manuals for further details.

Without the mirror’s edge, light penetrates throughout non-reflective glass to swap that glistening glimmer for softer ambience. If you plan to use a single color of glass, especially black, this is your better choice. Non-reflective fire glass blends flame lights to showcase a somber aesthetic. Use this glass with smaller fire bowls or fire urns to maximize atmosphere. And remember: you can mix reflective and non-reflective glass.

Reflective fire glass is treated and polished on one side, which bounces light like a mirror. Place this polish facing a flame, and the fire’s light will reflect through shimmering glass and produce a dancing effect. This is especially complementary to features that incorporate different types of fire media, logs, and other décor. Mix colors of reflective fire glass, or pair it with stainless steel, and the reflective fire glass will do all the heavy lifting in your mesmerizing centerpiece.

It’s also important to consider aesthetics when deciding whether to go for reflective or non-reflective fire glass. Again, this is very much a matter of preference, but both types differ in their appearance and how they interact with light. Let’s explore why that is.

Where fire glass comes in many sizes, there are also different shapes of fire media. There’s no shortage of them: glass nuggets, beads, cubes—the list goes on. As to which shape of fire media you should buy, that depends completely on personal preference and the overall décor of your outdoor space. It’s also worth mentioning that many shapes can be mixed together for an especially eye-catching display.

Standard fire glass comes in a variety of sizes for any gas fire feature, though our experts recommend half-inch diameter for most outdoor fire pits—it’s easier and more economic. Smaller sizes, like quarter-inch or half-inch, offer better heat distribution and a consistent flame. That said, some prefer the aesthetic of larger glass pieces as they provide a more bold appearance. Different sizes possess different weights and volumes, so you’ll need to calculate how much you need for your fire pit. Thankfully, our Fire Glass Calculator does that math for you.

Fire glass is tempered glass specifically made for fire features like gas fireplaces and gas fire pits. These small, granular chunks—which arrive sifted, tumbled, and cleaned—withstand significant stresses and temperatures. Whereas regular glass melts, explodes, smokes, and collects soot, fire glass effectively makes flames that flicker in a breathtaking display. Fire-rated glass and décor, therefore, are the only acceptable fillers for outdoor fire features. But what do you need to know before making a purchase? Our experts are here to guide you.

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Erica Blaire Roby

Even though I’ve been in some of the most classy establishments as a lawyer and a sommelier… the inner me is — and has always been — a gritty, bare-knuckle brawler who’s not afraid to get her hands and dress dirty!

Rasheed Philips

From the world-traveling and my stint at the CDC to competing on Netflix’s American BBQ Showdown… It was never a question of how or why. I just do things. And I don’t let anyone outwork me.

Danielle Diva Q Bennett

Let me tell it to you, as straight as I take my bourbon: I’ve been living the barbecue lifestyle for a long time now. Ever since the week I judged my first competition in 2006.

Kelsey Heidkamp

We want to teach people how to be comfortable behind the grill. We just happen to be doing it with a product that hasn’t gone through all these crazy evolutions.

Chuck's Flavor Train with Chuck Matto

Food should be a memory. You could convey your experiences and your lifetime moments. People should be able to relate to that and know when they take a bite of this, 'Oh, this person’s trying to tell me something and I can hear it!'

Chiles and Smoke With Brad Prose

That’s what I bring to the table: infusing base ingredients with cultural tastes, drawing their passion to the surface, and making gorgeous, delicious dishes that absolutely crackle with personality.

Cook at Home Mom with Laura Miner

When I’m not kept busy working and raising three wonderful children, I’m creating approachable recipes focused on gluten-free, low carb/keto, paleo, vegetarian/pescatarian, and Whole30 diets.

Paris Frederick

I like my barbecue more focused on the meat flavors, so I go drier and less sauce-based. Sometimes salt and pepper really is all you need! Especially for brisket, which really is the heart of BBQ for me.

Operation BBQ Relief Celebrity BBQ Academy & Golf Classic 2022

BBQGuys® Environmental Responsibility Initiatives for 2022

BBQGuys® Angel Tree 2021

BBQGuys® Volunteers with Habitat for Humanity

BBQGuys® Donates Essential Items to Aid Homeless Veterans

BBQGuys®: 2021 Louisiana Growth Leader

BBQGuys® Donates to Hurricane Ida Relief Efforts

BBQGuys® Assists CRCL and Common Ground Relief for Earth Day

BBQGuys® Earth Day PSA: How Wetlands Protect Our Cities

BBQGuys® Volunteers at Capital City Produce's Community Garden

BBQGuys® Delivers 75 Meals to St. Vincent de Paul Homeless Shelter May 2020

BBQGuys® to Sponsor Hogs for the Cause March 2020

BBQGuys® Gifts Valentine’s Day Care Packages for Teens Living in Foster Care February 2020

Baton Rouge Catholic Community Services 2019 Holiday Angel Tree December 2019

Flambeau Holiday Food Drive November 2019

The Spirit of Louisiana - BBQGuys® Donates $10,000 to the Cause October 2019

BBQGuys® Teams Up with Friends of the Animals of Baton Rouge October 2016

Pints and Pencils - School Supplies for Kids Affected by Baton Rouge's Historical 2016 Flood October 2016

Baton Rouge Food Bank Donation July 2016

Holiday Food Bank Donation - Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank December 2015

2015 Bark N' BBQ September 2015

Local Children's Shelter Receives Donations From BBQGuys® December 2014

BBQGuys® Hosts the Capital Region Builders Association Event March 2014

Free Outdoor Kitchen Design Service

Our free 3D design services will help you plan an outdoor kitchen.

Grill Vents & Outdoor Kitchen Ventilation

Outdoor kitchens need a place for the smoke and fumes to go.

Insulated Grill Jacket Buying Guide

All your insulated jacket information in one space.

Pro Picks: Gas Grills for Contractors & Builders

Our experts have picked the top rated gas grills for pros.

Outdoor Kitchen Design Gallery

These featured spaces highlight our customers dream outdoor areas.

How To Plan Your Outdoor Kitchen Zones

Check out these helpful tips on creating strategic “zones” in your outdoor kitchen.

Benefits of an Outdoor Kitchen

If you enjoy entertaining, you should consider putting in an outdoor kitchen.

What Do I Need For My Outdoor Bar?

Want to build an outdoor bar but don't know where to start? Start here!

What Are Unfinished Island Frame Kits?

Unfinished island kits are easy assembly cabinets used to build outdoor kitchens.

Outdoor Kitchen Planning & Design Tips

Here are some tips to help you with designing an outdoor kitchen.

Expert Reviews

Unbiased evaluations from our grilling experts to help you shop smart.

Outdoor Kitchen Checklist

Our guide shows you everything you need for your outdoor kitchen.

Outdoor Furniture Care & Cleaning

Patio furniture is designed to withstand the rigors of weather, but some simple maintenance tasks can extend its life for many years. BBQGuys shows you how.

How to Clean Patio Umbrellas

Use these cleaning tips to keep your patio umbrella looking new all year long!

How to Clean Outdoor Cushions

Make sure your outdoor cushions are ready for patio season with these tips!

How to Clean Your Outdoor Fan

Use these 5 easy steps to keep yours in FANtastic shape!

How to Protect Patio Furniture: 3 Simple Steps

Get your patio furnishings ready for winter in 3 easy steps!

Camping Grills

RV & Camper Grills

Boat Grills

Portable Grills

Camp Cookers & Outdoor Ovens

Camping Accessories

Camping Grill Buying Guide

Get the skinny on camping grills and start picking out the perfect one!

RV & Camper Grill Buying Guide

Get help choosing the right size grill, fuel type, and road-friendly features.

Boat Grill Buying Guide

Learn what to look for before you buy a marine grill & take your BBQ game to sea!

Best RV Grills

Best Boat Grills

Best Portable Gas Grills

Best Portable Charcoal Grills

Best of BBQGuys

Discover the best products for BBQ grilling & smoking and outdoor living.

Expert Reviews

Our experts have all the info on the most popular grills & outdoor living products.

Product Comparisons

Review comparison charts for different types of grills, pizza ovens, and more.

Buying Guides

The experts help you buy grills, outdoor kitchens, and outdoor living products.

Grillabilities

Discover Grillabilities that will help you step up your grilling game.

Gift Guides

Shop BBQGuys for gifts for holidays, weddings, birthdays, you name it.

Outdoor Kitchen Ideas

Find ideas to take the first step toward your dream outdoor kitchen!

BBQGuys Lifestyle

Get your BBQ on at BBQGuys.com with content created with fun in mind.

Recipes

Team BBQGuys share their favorite barbecue, smoker, & grilling recipes.

Beyond the Backyard

Check out buying guides and get some useful tips for on-the-go BBQ.

Inside BBQGuys

We’ve never stopped caring about oour customers, and our community.

BBQGuys Sales and Promotions

Find the best pricing on grills, outdoor kitchens, and more at BBQGuys.

More Outdoor Kitchen Planning Resources

We're here to help plan your outdoor kitchen, from planning to purchase.

Outdoor Kitchen Designs

We highlight our customers' journeys in creating their own Outdoor Oasis.

DIY Outdoor Kitchen

Thinking about building an outdoor kitchen? Here's what you'll need.

8 Outdoor Kitchen Mistakes to Avoid

We've compiled a list what to avoid when building your outdoor kitchen.

What do I need in my outdoor kitchen?

Check out our helpful guide to assist you in what you need to get started.

Free Outdoor Kitchen Design Services

Our design consultants can help you plan your very own outdoor kitchen.

Expert Reviews

We've asked our BBQ Experts to test and review our most popular gas grills.

Financing Your New Outdoor Kitchen

We have teamed up with Affirm to provide easy and affordable financing.

Everything You Need To Know To Find The Best fire and glass

How to Buy Fire Glass for Gas Fire Pits : BBQGuys