Ensuring Fire Safety in High-Rise Decking

Outdoor decks or balconies in high-rise buildings provide a leisurely space for residents to relax, entertain, and enjoy breathtaking views. Whether it’s for morning coffee, evening get-togethers, or just unwinding in the fresh air, these decks significantly enhance the standard of living.

However, ensuring these spaces are safe, especially from fire hazards, is crucial. High-rise buildings are particularly vulnerable to fires, which can spread rapidly and cause severe damage. This is why the UK introduced the Building (Amendment) Regulations 2018, requiring the use of non-combustible materials for external walls and balconies.

In this blog, we’ll discuss how to choose and install the right materials to comply with these essential safety regulations. But first, let’s understand the fire safety standards.

Understanding Fire Safety Standards

The UK introduced the Building (Amendment) Regulations 2018 to improve fire safety in high-rise buildings. These regulations mandate that external walls and balconies must be constructed from non-combustible materials.

For decking, this means complying with specific safety standards:

EN 13823: This standard tests how building materials react to fire, focusing on their contribution to fire growth.

EN 13501: This classification system rates materials based on their fire resistance and reaction to fire. Decking materials must achieve Euroclass classifications of A1 or A2fl-s1.

EN ISO 1716: This measures the potential maximum heat release of a material when it burns.

Euroclass A1 materials are completely non-combustible, while A2 materials have limited combustibility. Achieving these classifications ensures that decking materials do not significantly contribute to a fire and instead prevent the spread of fire, providing more time for residents to evacuate and for emergency services to respond effectively. It’s essential to choose the right materials to ensure compliance with these regulations and enhance the safety of your high-rise building.

These regulations and standards were introduced in response to severe fire incidents, such as the Grenfell Tower tragedy, highlighting the need for improved fire safety in building construction.

Choosing the Right Materials

Wood decking offers a traditional and natural look but requires high maintenance and is not suitable for high-rise buildings due to fire risks

Plastic decking is durable and low maintenance but generally not fire-resistant and non-compliant with high-rise building regulations

Stone and concrete decking are extremely durable and fire-resistant but heavy, often requiring additional structural support, hence not always recommended.

Metal decking typically made from steel or aluminium, is highly durable and fire-resistant

Let’s cover the fire-resistant decking material in more detail. 

Aluminium Decking

Aluminium decking is a popular choice for high-rise buildings due to its excellent fire resistance and low maintenance requirements. Key benefits include:

Fire Safety: Aluminium is non-combustible and meets the strict fire safety standards required for high-rise buildings. It does not ignite or spread flames, making it a safe choice for balconies and terraces.

Durability: Resistant to corrosion, weathering, and wear, aluminium decking can withstand harsh environmental conditions without deteriorating.

Lightweight: Easier to handle and install, and it reduces the structural load on buildings.

Eco-Friendly: Aluminium is 100% recyclable, contributing to sustainable construction practices.

Our Synergised Aluminium Decking meets A2-s1, d0 standards, offering non-combustible, durable, and maintenance-free solutions.

By following these guidelines, you ensure that your high-rise decking installation not only enhances the living experience but also prioritizes safety and compliance with UK regulations.

For all your decking needs, we’re here for you now and whenever you might next need us.

For more information on Ensuring Fire Safety in High-Rise Decking talk to F H Brundle