What is a fire rated glass block? In short, this type of glass block is designed to help slow the spread of fire. When a fire is tearing through a building or a home, one of the most valuable assets you can have is, in fact, time. You need time to get yourself out, you need time to help others out, and if you are really fortunate, you may even have time to grab a valuable possession or two.
You might think a product manufactured and designed for safety will be an eyesore by necessity, but this is not true for fire rated glass. In fact, if you go to the right source, you can find fire rated glass blocks that can add beauty AND safety to any design.
Fire Rated Glass Block Versus Regular Glass Block
Regular glass block can inherently help prevent fire from spreading, but it is not built with that objective in mind, whereas fire rated glass block is. There are several different types of fire rated glass block options, both in terms of design and safety standards. The most popular fire ratings for glass blocks are 45, 60, and 90 minutes. These fire rated options are available for both glass bricks and glass blocks.
Fire rated glass block has flame retardant properties but also has properties that can help regulate the internal temperature of your home on regular days when there are no emergencies. Because of how they are made, fire rated glass blocks and bricks can also increase the amount of safety you enjoy from intruders, water damage, and more. Despite these hefty responsibilities, fire rated glass block does not block natural light. You can still pick how translucent or transparent you want your windows as well as be more safe in your home.
How to Use Fire Rated Blocks and Bricks
Fire-rated glass blocks can be used just like regular glass blocks. Like regular glass blocks and bricks, you can find fire rated options in a myriad of designs and colors. There is no reason to make any special allowances in a design just because the choice has been made to use a fire rated glass material.
Fire Rated Glass Block Suppliers
If you are interested in getting started with your next glass block project, you will need to find a reputable glass block supplier and installer. Not only will you want to make sure the fire-rated block has been tested, but also that you are getting the most out of your money. The cost of using a fire-rated glass block depends on where you are purchasing your glass block. Different suppliers will have different prices based on how complex the size is, different colors, and other aspects of the block.
Northeast Ohio has several different fire-rated glass block suppliers and installers who are ready to help you. Learn more today about how you can find the right supplier for you.
