The A. Proctor Group, specialists in technically
advanced thermal, acoustic and membrane products,
says they are experiencing an increasing demand
for independently certified vapour control layers to
provide fire protection in compliance with the latest
building regulations.
The suitability of materials within the construction
of tall buildings and the increased requirements
for fire safety means that the correct selection and
application of materials are at their most critical.
Regulation 7 of the Building Regulations of Approved
Document B: November 2018 stipulates; “building
work shall be carried out so that materials which
become part of an external wall, or specified
attachment, of a relevant building are of European
Classification A2-s1, d0 or Class A1, classified in
accordance with BS EN 13501-1:2007+A1:2009
entitled “Fire classification of construction products
and building elements.”
In addition, with specific reference to membranes, the
Regulation provides an exemption and further clarification as stated below:
“10.15 a. Membranes used as part of the external wall construction should achieve a minimum
classification of European Class B-s3, d0.”
While quoting A2 ratings, some membrane products, especially vapour permeable membranes, do not
breathe or comply with BS5250, meaning using these membranes in the UK climate could make the
building unhealthy and result in a much greater risk of condensation issues and mould growth.
In developing its portfolio of advanced membranes, the A. Proctor Group has
designed this in, backed up by independent testing observing the performance of the products as part of a holistic system rather than
individually.
Procheck® FR200
The latest examples include Procheck® FR200, a fire resistant vapour control layer used in roof and wall structures, and that provides a Reaction to Fire classification of B-s1, d0. Incorporating Procheck FR200 air and vapour tight membrane improves energy efficiency and reduces condensation risk.
