Fire Resistant Glass Block

An important feature critical to safe building design is a product’s inherent fire-resistance property. Fire resistant glass block is available in 45, 60, 90, and 120 minute fire ratings. Fire-Rated glass block is also graffiti resistant, noise resistant, has design flexibility and enhanced security. We carry all patterns of fire rated glass block in our well-stocked glass block warehouse.

By varying the face thickness of the glass block and conforming to installation specifications, we offer a family of fire rated products approved and rated according to Underwriters Laboratory (UL®) standards. Fire-Rated glass blocks are available in our Seves THICKSET® 60- and Seves THICKSET® 90-minute ratings for window assemblies, as well as VISTABRIK®. Seves fire-rated glass blocks are perfect for lot line windows, stairwells, corridors and where light and security are desired.

PREMIERE SERIES:

• Includes the largest selection of patterns and sizes for the utmost in design flexibility.
  

  Fire Rated Thickset 90 block in Clarity pattern

• All patterns of PREMIERE SERIES are classified by UL®‚ for use in 45-minute rated window assemblies.
• Available patterns include: CrossRib, Wavy, Ice and Clearview.
• Available in all sizes except 12″ x 12″ (Wavy only) and shapes.
• Nominal face thickness: 0.25″
• Sound Transmission Class (S.T.C.) = 39

THICKSET® 60 Block

• Thicker-faced block that provides all the traditional benefits of glass block plus a 60-minute fire rating.
• Classified by UL®‚ for use as 45-or 60-minute rated window assemblies.
• Available patterns include: Wavy AND Clearview.
• Available sizes: 8″ x 8″ x 4″
• Nominal face thickness: 0.375″
• Sound Transmission Class (S.T.C.) = 48
  

  Fire Rated Glass Block in a zero-lot line application between buildings

THICKSET® 90 Block

• Thicker-faced block that provides all the traditional benefits of glass block plus a 90-minute fire rating.
• Classified by UL®‚ for use as 45-, 60- or 90-minute rated window assemblies.
• Available patterns include: Wavy AND Clearview.
• Available sizes: 8″ x 8″ x 4″
• Nominal face thickness: 0.75″
• Sound Transmission Class (S.T.C.) = 50

 

 

VISTABRIK® Solid Glass Brick

• The ultimate glass block solution, 3 solid inches of glass which resists bullets, fire, noise, graffiti and forcible entry.
• Classified by UL®‚ for use as 45-, 60- or 90-minute rated window assemblies.
• Available patterns include: Clear – for good visibility
• Available sizes: 8″ x 8″ x 3″, 3″ x 8″ x 3″
• Actual face thickness: 3.0″
• Sound Transmission Class (S.T.C.) = 53

2-Hour Fire Rated Glass Block  

• Test Method: ASTM E-119, UL 263-19 and CAN/ULC S101-14
• Series / Line: High Performance
• Block Size: 19cm x 19cm x 13cm or 7.48″ x 7.48″ x 5.11″
• Available Patterns: Wave and Clarity
• Heat Transmission U-Value (BTU/hr ft2 °F): 0.28Thermal Resistance R-value (hr ft2 °F/BTU): 3.61

Testing Summary:
The glass block wall assembly withstood the fire exposure of ASTM E119 for a period of 120 minutes. A second, duplicate wall assembly was  subjected to a hose stream test following a fire exposure of 1/2 the duration of the initial fire exposure test of 2-hr which resulted in no projection of water through the unexposed face. The wall assembly obtained a fire resistance rating of 120 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions – Fire Rated Glass Block

FAQs

What is fire-rated glass block?

Fire-rated glass block is specially manufactured and tested to resist the spread of fire for a specified period of time while still allowing light transmission. Fire-rated glass blocks have thicker faces than standard glass blocks.

How long is fire-rated glass block rated for?

Fire-rated glass block systems are available in various ratings depending on the manufacturer, testing, and application requirements. These ratings include 45, 60, 90, or 120 minutes.

Where can fire-rated glass block be used?

Fire-rated glass block is commonly used in stairwells, corridors, schools, hospitals, commercial buildings, and certain residential applications.

Does fire-rated glass block meet building code requirements?

Fire-rated glass block products are tested to specific standards and can meet applicable building code requirements when properly specified and installed. These are typically approved by building code officials.

Does fire-rated glass block still allow natural light?

Fire-rated glass block is designed to transmit natural light while maintaining fire-resistance performance.

Is fire-rated glass block transparent?

Fire-rated glass block can provide varying levels of visibility and privacy depending on the specific product and pattern selected.

Can fire-rated glass block be used in stairwells?

Fire-rated glass block is frequently specified for stairwell applications because it combines fire protection with daylighting.

Can fire-rated glass block be used in schools and hospitals?

Schools, hospitals, and public buildings are among the most common applications for fire-rated glass block systems.

Is fire-rated glass block energy efficient?

Many fire-rated glass block systems offer good thermal performance while providing fire protection and daylighting.

What are the advantages of fire-rated glass block over fire-rated glass?

Fire-rated glass block offers a unique combination of fire protection, privacy, security, and light transmission. Architects often find the glass blocks cost less.

Will fire-rated glass block increase project costs?

Fire-rated products generally cost more than non-rated alternatives but may provide value through durability, daylighting, and code compliance.