Fire safety is one of the biggest concerns in any home or business. While we tend to focus on active protection technologies, systems and electronic devices, The key often lies in choosing the right building materials for each space.In this sense, fireproof plasterboard has established itself as a safe and efficient alternative for protecting our homes, both due to its fire-resistant properties and its versatility and ease of installation.
Despite increasing awareness of fire risks, many people still don't know how the choice of partitions, ceilings, and cladding influences a home's fire resistance. Opt for fireproof panels It not only helps you comply with regulations and live with greater peace of mind., but it can make all the difference in the event of an accident. Find out more below. Why fireproof plasterboard is the preferred choice of experts and how it helps you protect what you love most.
Why is fireproof plasterboard essential for protecting your home?
Fireproof plasterboard has revolutionized construction systems thanks to its remarkable fire resistance capacity. It is A laminated plasterboard specially treated to withstand high temperatures and prevent the spread of flamesThe most interesting thing about this material is that It acts as a passive barrier against fire, preventing flames and heat from spreading to other areas of the building.This aspect is key, both to gain evacuation time and to minimize material and personal damage.
Furthermore, All plasterboard panels have a minimum fire resistance, but there are specific versions called "foc" or "RF" reinforced with fiberglass and special additives. These plates can withstand much higher temperatures without deforming and without releasing toxic gases., maintaining its integrity for much longer than conventional plates.
Another great advantage is its versatility and ease of installation.. Fireproof plasterboard can be used in multiple applications: partition walls, ceilings, floors, cladding, and even custom-made furniture. In addition, It can be combined with other materials such as rock wool to achieve even greater protection., both against fire and in thermal and acoustic insulation.
Safety, of course, is not at odds with aesthetics.. Fireproof panels are just as manageable and aesthetically pleasing as conventional ones., so you can have protected spaces without giving up a clean and modern finish.
What makes fireproof plasterboard special? Differences and classification
The secret of fireproof plasterboard lies in its internal compositionThey are panels made of laminated plaster to which fiberglass and other heat-resistant components are added. This mixture makes the material not only resistant but also fireproof., helping to prevent it from deforming or emitting dangerous particles in the event of a fire.
Depending on their performance, The resistance of each element is expressed by a combination of letters:
R: Bearing capacity (the time that the structure maintains its mechanical resistance).
E: Integrity (prevents the passage of flames and hot gases).
I: Insulation (it acts as a thermal barrier, preventing heat from passing through).
The union of these letters, accompanied by the time in minutes (for example, EI-60, EI-120…), defines the certified resistance of the system according to the European standard EN 13501-2. Fireproof plasterboard panels can be certified to withstand 30, 60, 90, 120, and even 240 minutes of direct fire exposure., depending on its thickness and reinforcements.
Furthermore, There are two main families of plasterboard in terms of fire resistance.: the standard, which already offers basic resistance and is usually classified as M0 (non-combustible), and the so-called "foc" or RF, which incorporates reinforced glass or cellulose fibers, significantly increasing its resistance to flames. The latter is recommended in critical areas..
Applications and places where fireproof plasterboard is essential
Regulations and construction logic advise using fireproof plasterboard in all high-risk areas.. Its main applications include:
- Evacuation corridors and stairs, ensuring safe routes in case of emergency.
- Electrical installation rooms, boilers, industrial kitchens and any premises where work is carried out with equipment that could cause fires.
- Public buildings, residential communities, shopping centers and high-traffic areas, where regulations require certified systems and longer endurance times.
- Fireplaces, fire areas in homes, garages and basements, as well as divisions between homes or premises to prevent the fire from spreading to other units.
In new construction and renovations, fireproof plasterboard is becoming more and more common. even in private homes, where extra protection is sought and compliance with the Technical Building Code (CTE) in Spain is required, as well as with UNE-EN 13501-1:2019, which governs fire reaction and resistance classifications.
What are the additional benefits of fireproof plasterboard?
Choosing fireproof materials offers many more advantages than just fire protection.Fireproof plasterboard, in particular, offers the following benefits:
- Durability and structural resistance: By protecting both walls and ceilings, prolongs the useful life of the building and reduces the risk of collapse at high temperatures.
- Excellent thermal and acoustic insulation: Thanks to its composition, improves the comfort and energy efficiency of the building. It can be combined with other insulating materials to maximize performance.
- Normative compliance: Using certified materials ensures that the building complies with safety regulations., a fundamental aspect in public and commercial spaces.
- Lower maintenance costs: Lower likelihood of structural damage means fewer repairs after incidents and avoids penalties for non-compliance with regulations.
Installation and technical considerations: why trust only professionals
The installation of fireproof plasterboard panels is similar to that of conventional panels.. It is mounted on a metal profile structure and screwed together., always taking care to use the elements that are compatible and recommended by the manufacturer. However, Correct assembly is crucial: Poor workmanship or the use of non-approved materials can drastically reduce the system's strength and effectiveness.
For this reason, It is essential to trust qualified professionals. They know all the necessary technical details To comply with legal requirements and ensure maximum protection. Furthermore, only experts can certify the installation and offer structural and fire resistance guarantees, which is a key aspect for opening or operating licenses.
Complementary fireproof materials and advanced protection systems
Fireproof plasterboard can be enhanced by combining it with other materials that increase the overall efficiency of the system.. They stand out among them:
- Rock wool and glass wool: Its high resistance to fire and heat making them perfect allies for fireproof plasterboard in backings, walls and ceilings.
- Intumescent mortars and paints: They cover metal and concrete structures, delaying collapse in the face of heat and complementing the action of the plasterboard.
- Polyurethane and calcium silicate foams: Ideal for sealing joints and gaps, creating additional barriers to fire and smoke.
- Fibre silicate panels: They stand out for their use in areas of extremely high demand. such as hospitals, airports or tunnels, providing superior resistance.
Combine these materials with fireproof plasterboard It reinforces fire protection and also helps improve thermal and acoustic insulation..
Fireproof plasterboard in regulations and official certification
The use of fire-resistant materials is regulated by strict regulations aimed at safeguarding the safety of occupants of buildings and public spaces.In Spain, the Technical Building Code (CTE) and the UNE-EN 13501-1:2019 standard classify materials according to their level of resistance and reaction to fire.
The European classification distinguishes several categories:
- Class A1 and A2: non-combustible materials, maximum safety
- Class B to F: progressive decrease in resistance, with F being the least safe
In addition, smoke production (s1 to s3) and the generation of incandescent droplets (d0 to d2) are measured. Only certified and laboratory-tested materials can guarantee reliable fire performance.It is vital to require official marking and documentation before purchasing or installing any passive protection system.
Different types of plasterboard for every need
The world of plasterboard is not limited only to fire protection.There are varieties designed to solve different construction challenges:
- Standard plasterboard: suitable for interiors without special requirements
- Water-repellent plasterboard: treated against humidity, ideal for bathrooms and kitchens
- Acoustic plasterboard: designed to minimize noise transmission
- Thermal plasterboard: incorporates materials that improve energy efficiency
- Anti-humidity and curved plasterboard: for unique needs or creative spaces
- Anti-X-ray plasterboard: specific for medical facilities where radiation protection is required
Choosing the right type of plasterboard can make all the difference in protecting spaces with high security demands..
Innovation in fireproof materials continues to evolve, promoting more sustainable and efficient solutions.. Learn more about the trends in sustainability in construction.