Which Type of Glass Is Most Typically Used in Fire Doors And Windows

In construction projects where both aesthetics and safety matter, fire-resistant glazing plays a crucial role. Whether it’s a commercial building, school, or residential complex, fire doors and windows are essential to slowing down the spread of flames and smoke. Yet, many distributors and architects often ask: what type of glass is most commonly used in fire doors and windows?

Understanding Fire-Resistant Glass: Function and Standards

Fire-resistant glass is designed to maintain its integrity and insulation for a specific period under high temperatures. Unlike standard tempered glass, which shatters when exposed to heat, fire-rated glazing can resist temperatures up to 1000°C, preventing fire spread while maintaining visibility and light transmission.

There are three major performance classes recognized internationally:

• Integrity (E): prevents flames and hot gases from passing through.

• Integrity and Radiation Control (EW): blocks flames and reduces radiant heat.

• Integrity and Insulation (EI): stops both flames and heat transmission for maximum protection.

Reference:

According to the International Fire Safety Standards Coalition (IFSSC, 2024), the classification “E, EW, and EI” is now widely adopted across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe as the global reference system for fire-rated glazing.

The Most Commonly Used Glass Types in Fire Doors and Windows

When it comes to practical applications, several types of glass materials are used to achieve different levels of fire protection.

(1) Wired Glass

Wired glass is one of the oldest and most traditional forms of fire-rated glass. Embedded with a mesh of steel wire, it prevents the glass from falling apart even when cracked under heat.

However, wired glass provides limited insulation and is more suitable for low fire-rating requirements (e.g., 30 minutes).

(2) Ceramic Glass

Ceramic glass is one of the most durable materials for fire doors and windows. It can resist extremely high temperatures (up to 1200°C) and remain stable even after exposure.

It’s widely used in public buildings, airports, and hospitals due to its long durability and clear appearance.

Reference:

A 2023 report from the Asian Building Material Research Center (ABMRC) found that ceramic-based fire glass maintains its clarity and strength after 90 minutes of direct exposure, outperforming standard tempered glass by more than five times.

Laminated Fire-Resistant Glass

Laminated glass combines multiple layers of glass with fire-resistant interlayers (such as intumescent gel). When exposed to heat, the interlayer expands to form an opaque barrier that blocks heat and smoke.

This type is ideal for EI-rated fire doors and windows in offices, schools, and high-rise buildings.

Reference:

According to The Fire Protection Association of India (FPAI, 2024), laminated fire glass can maintain both integrity and insulation for up to 120 minutes, making it suitable for tropical regions where rapid temperature rise occurs.

The Role of Fire Glass in Aluminium and uPVC Systems

For window and door distributors, compatibility between fire glass and frame systems is critical. Aluminium and uPVC frames offer excellent thermal resistance and can be combined with various fire-rated glazing options depending on project needs.

At VIGORAWINDOWS, our aluminium windows, aluminium doors, UPVC windows, and UPVC doors can be configured with multiple glass options — including ceramic, laminated, and wired fire glass.

Our R&D team ensures proper sealing, glazing bead design, and expansion joint tolerance, helping clients meet local building codes without compromising aesthetics.

Reference:

The Middle East Construction Technology Institute (MECTI, 2024) notes that the use of aluminium-framed fire windows has increased by 28% in GCC countries due to their strength, recyclability, and design flexibility.

Choosing the right fire-resistant glass isn’t only about meeting regulations — it’s about protecting lives and property while maintaining design harmony.Among all materials, ceramic and laminated fire glass remain the most widely used for fire doors and windows, providing the best balance between clarity, strength, and thermal insulation.

With years of experience in manufacturing and export, VIGORAWINDOWS helps distributors and project partners select suitable glass systems that comply with international fire-safety standards while delivering consistent performance and modern design flexibility.