Timber construction in industrial environments — trend with requirements
Timber is making a comeback in industrial construction: glulam beams in modern service halls, cross-laminated timber (CLT) ceilings in multi-storey workshop buildings, timber-concrete composite structures for mixed-use buildings. The advantages are real (build time, CO₂ footprint, aesthetics) — but fire protection has to be handled properly.
Wood burns — that’s a fact. But wood burns predictably: at about 0.7 mm/min charring rate. From there, fire protection is calculable. We combine calculated fire protection (sufficiently sized cross-sections) with active protection measures (coating, cladding).
Three solution paths
Transparent fire-protection coating
When the timber should remain visible (showroom, modern architecture), we apply a transparent fire-protection coating. The wood grain stays visible; in a fire the coating forms an insulating foam layer. Classifications up to R 30, with specialty products R 60.
Cladding with fire-protection boards
When aesthetics aren’t the primary concern, we install classic fire-protection cladding (gypsum boards type F or calcium silicate). Higher classifications (up to R 60+), robust, easy to maintain.
Fire-protection spray
On large timber ceiling surfaces, spray application is often the most economical solution — especially in non-visible areas above suspended ceilings.
Composite structures
Timber-concrete composite slabs combine the load-bearing properties of both materials — and need coordinated fire protection. We typically solve this by calculating the timber load layer with sufficient cross-section, using a concrete top layer as fire-protection multi-layer above, and targeted protection measures on the timber underside.
Existing buildings and renovations
Existing timber structures that need fire-protection upgrades — whether after an inspection or as part of a change of use — we bring up to current standards. Typically with retrofit fire-protection coating or a suspended fire-protection cladding underneath.
Timber construction and fire protection are not mutually exclusive. We show you the path between the two — get in touch.