Chapter 16: Pyroguard
New fire-rated glass solutions for high-rise balustrades

How innovation has ensured glass can continue to be specified for balustrades

Glass has been a consistently popular choice for balustrades for modern high-rise residential and commercial buildings, both for aesthetic and performance reasons.

However, in 2020, Building Regulations introduced a ban on the use of combustible materials in and on the external walls of buildings, which included preventing certain types of laminated glass – those with PVB interlayers – on high-rise balconies or terraces over 18m tall. These regulations were revised in 2022 to lower the threshold to 11m, reflecting an even more stringent approach to fire safety.

The traditional approach to laminated fire safety glass typically incorporated thicker interlayers to achieve necessary fire ratings. However, innovations from manufacturers, like Pyroguard, has led to laminated glass solutions that utilise non-flammable gel interlayers that replace traditional polymer bonded laminate glass.

Andy Lake, UK & Ireland Sales Director at Pyroguard, looks at the specification of glass balustrades for high-rise developments and how innovation has ensured that they can continue to meet the latest regulations.

One popular option is Pyroguard Balustrades Evo – a thinner, lighter glass developed specifically for balustrades that achieves A2 fire-rated performance and contains less encapsulated CO2. This innovative new product offers the durability and safety features of traditional laminated glass, while ensuring compliance with the latest building regulations.

These material innovations collectively represent a significant step forward in balustrade technology. By maintaining the A2-s1, d0 fire classification essential for high-rise applications while improving practical performance characteristics, we have effectively addressed both regulatory requirements and design aspirations. In addition, the 1B1 impact resistance certification under EN12600 ensures these lighter systems don't sacrifice durability or safety.

Lighter glass panels

The reduction in interlayer thickness provides noticeable weight savings across the entire glass panel. This makes installation quicker and more efficient by placing less structural demand on building frameworks.

The weight reduction also contributes to lower transportation costs and easier handling during installation. This lighter glass delivers up to 7.5% less embodied CO2 compared to traditional options, making this increasingly attractive for zero carbon buildings.

Improved light transmission

Glass balustrades are renowned for their aesthetics, so one of the most notable achievements in the new-generation of thinner fire-rated balustrades is the enhanced light transmission properties. Pyroguard Balustrades Evo achieves light transmission rates in the 84 to 88% range, striking an optimal balance between clarity and performance.

The exceptional clarity of modern fire-rated glass also allows for design versatility. This visual performance, combined with its technical capabilities, enables architects to create spaces that feel open and connected while still adhering to stringent safety requirements.

Conclusion

Fire safety regulations have brought about significant changes in the way glass is specified for high-rise balconies. Innovations in non-combustible laminated glass are offering a compelling solution to meeting the latest fire safety regulations whilst ensuring aesthetic excellence in high-rise balcony construction.

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