Fire-resistant roller shutters are a safe, reliable, and cost-effective way to shield your property from fire-related dangers. They’re designed to prevent fire from spreading from one area of your building to another, thus ensuring that people can escape safely. They’re commonly integrated with existing fire systems so that they shut automatically once a trigger is activated by a fire alarm. They also provide additional security by preventing people from entering a building while a fire is happening.
Durability and Longevity
Fire resistant shutters are built to withstand extreme weather conditions, including powerful heat waves, heavy rainstorms, and harsh winds. They’re also made to last, so they can continue protecting your property even after years of exposure to the elements.
They’re often constructed from durable materials, such as uPVC fire-resistant roller shutters and aluminium. This means that they’re strong and sturdy enough to withstand the impact of any kind of break-in attempt. Moreover, they’re easy to maintain and keep clean, as you can simply wipe them down with a damp cloth or sponge. Combined with their superior strength, these features make fire-resistant shutters an exceptional choice for homeowners and businesses alike.
The slats that comprise a fire shutter are rated for their level of fire resistance, which is measured in terms of how long they can hold up against a specific temperature. A slat’s rating is determined by subjecting it to rigorous tests that simulate a fire hazard situation in a controlled environment. The test results are then evaluated by organisations recognised in the industry to determine whether or not a slat can meet certain safety standards.
Depending on the test result, a slat can be rated for up to 240 minutes of fire resistance. A single skin fire rated shutter provides 60 minutes of fire resistance, while a twin skin shutter offers up to 120 minutes of protection. A twin skin shutter reduces thermal energy by reflecting it back from the slats, meaning that they won’t get as hot as a single-skin shutter during a fire.
Protection from Radiant Heat and Flying Debris
Fire-resistant shutters can shield your home from the hazards of bushfires by acting as a barrier that obstructs the passage of radiant heat, thereby lowering the risk of flammable substances catching fire. They can also protect your home from flying debris that could pose a threat during an emergency evacuation.
Compliance with Stringent Standards
When you choose a fire-rated shutter, you’re ensured that it has undergone strict production under tight industrial and security guidelines. This is crucial because it means that the shutter can withstand a fire for a given amount of time.
When deciding which type of shutter is right for your property, consider your needs and the trade-offs you’re willing to make. For instance, a fire-rated shutter is a great option for commercial spaces, but it may not be the best choice for your home because it can compromise your privacy and aesthetics. To avoid this, it’s important to work with a trusted and experienced professional that can customise your shutters according to your dimensional requirements.