Fire is always a major risk to any home or building. With the soaring temperatures
the UK has experienced this summer, the threat of fire becomes even more worrying for construction
manufacturers and builders alike. Masonry block is one of the best building materials, not only
to fire-proof a development, but to ensure all measures have been taken to save lives and to protect
the investment in the building.
Aircrete masonry blocks do not burn. They are classified as Non-combustible, having a Euroclass of A1 (the highest possible)
and have a 'class 0 surface spread of flame' as described in the National Building Regulations. As a result of Aircrete's
inherent fire resistant properties, the product can be used to contain or prevent the spread of fire within a building, either
during the building process or after completion. By simply using a 100mm Aircrete masonry block in the construction, up to 4
hours fire resistance can be achieved. Where used as internal walls, partitions and external walls, since Aircrete blocks can
resist temperatures of up to 1200°C, the resistance to fire is significantly improved. This applies to both the finished
construction as well as during the build stage. Even after a fire, the walls generally have sufficient strength and robustness
to be retained.
Chairman of the Marketing Committee of Aircrete Products Association (APA) Ian Exall comments: "We have strived to continually
improve the performance of Aircrete in order to maximise its efficiency in all aspects of construction, and fire resistance is
no different. The APA member companies work closely with fire researchers in order to maximise fire safety standards and our
products fire resistant properties have been proven during testing and real case scenarios."
The combination of the microcellular structure of Aircrete blocks and the use of non-combustible raw materials is the key
to making them fire resistant. A closed cell structure effectively acts as a firebreak wall. Extensive research has shown
Aircrete to help maintain the stability and structure of a building in the event of a blaze, whilst allowing the occupants
vital time to escape. Another safety benefit of Aircrete is that it does not emit toxic smoke or gasses once heated to a
significant level.
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