Fire-Rated Pedestals: The Hidden Heroes

08 Sep Fire-Rated Pedestals: The Hidden Heroes

A lot has changed since 2019 when this blog was first written...

Since then we have created a brand new guide highlighting the balcony flooring regulations for 2022 & beyond. Follow this link to make sure you’re not missing out on the latest legislation.

Since the 2019 change in Building Regulations in regard to fire safety, many manufacturers have developed fire-rated flooring solutions specifically for ‘specified attachments’ above 18 metres in height.

In order for buildings to pass fire regulations, the whole flooring system has to be fire-rated. This includes the surface material, pedestal and any other substrate.

At Alfresco Floors, we consider fire-rated pedestals to be the ‘hidden heroes’ of the external flooring application. Despite being hidden from view, these pedestals have the ability to withstand substantial loads, allow for drainage and are instrumental in the overall finish of the project.

Not to mention that they offer ultimate assurance when it comes to fire protection.

What are Fire-Rated Pedestals?

A fire-rated pedestal is a component that allows for the installation of heavy tiles, slabs or other surfaces without the need for adhesive or grout. What makes a fire-rated pedestal so unique is that it is made from completely non-combustible materials such as aluminium.

Many B-rated pedestals contain plastic, and whilst this is a perfectly effective material, it is not permitted on attachments above 18 metres in height, according to National Building Regulations.

Therefore, fire-rated pedestals have been designed for use in high-rise flooring projects. These may include (but are not limited to) balconies, terraces, walkways, roof gardens and winter gardens.

Specifying Fire-Rated Pedestals: What to Look Out For

Firstly, your fire-rated pedestal should be classified through the Euroclass system and be given an A1 or A2 classification.

This means that it produces no contribution to fire.

In order for products to be awarded a Class A rating, they must undergo rigorous testing. You can find out about this process in our blog post here.

There are also some key characteristics to look out for when specifying fire-rated pedestals. They are:

• Quick installation capabilities
• Lightweight construction
• Ability to accommodate heavy loads
• Self-draining
• UV Resistant
• Chemical Resistant
• Maintenance-free
• Suitable for use in a variety of temperatures

Providing the Full Fire-Rated Flooring System

When it comes to your external flooring project, you’ll want to ensure that every component is compliant, providing a Class A fire rating.

This means that your product selection has to be carefully considered.

With your fire-rated pedestals in place, you should now consider the fire-resistant decking you will be using for your project.

At Alfresco Floors, we provide aluminium, porcelain, concrete and natural stone. Each surface material is very different and will thus deliver a unique aesthetic to your project.

To view how our concrete paving helped support the load of 40 thousand football fans, click here.

To explore how our porcelain tiles achieved a contemporary aesthetic to a unique apartment blog, click here.

To see the unique visual appeal that natural stone can achieve, view our Goldman Sachs case study here.

Fire-Rated Decking & Pedestals? Look No Further

Here at Alfresco Floors, we provide the full external flooring system, from the fire-rated pedestal to the class A surface material.

We understand how the safety of the end-user is paramount, particularly when there’s a risk of fire.

With that in mind, be sure to check out The A-PED®: one of the UK’s only Class A1 rated pedestals for balconies, walkways, terraces and any other specified attachments, exclusively at Alfresco Floors.

Our team is always on hand to assist with any queries you may have, so fill out the form below or call us on 020 8977 0904.