Is Georgian wired glass fire-rated?

Georgian wired glass can provide fire integrity when it is fitted in a suitable tested frame, typically for 30 minutes and longer in some systems. It does not provide insulation, and plain wired glass usually lacks an impact safety classification, so it often falls short of impact safety expectations in doors and low-level positions.

Why was wired glass used?

The embedded steel mesh holds the glass together when it cracks in the heat of a fire, so the pane stays in its frame and keeps flames out for a period. That made it the standard integrity glass for decades.

What are the drawbacks?

The wire weakens the glass, and when the pane is broken by impact the sharp edges stay held in the mesh. Hands and arms pushed through wired glass in doors can be badly cut.

Wired glass also limits views and looks dated compared with modern clear fire glass.

Do you have to replace it?

There is no blanket legal requirement to remove all wired glass. However, glass in critical locations must meet impact safety requirements, and duty holders must manage foreseeable risks. In practice, wired glass in doors, side panels and low-level positions is usually replaced.

What replaces it?

Clear modern integrity or insulating fire glass that carries an impact classification and is compatible with the existing frame's evidence. If the frame cannot accept modern glass, replacing the frame is the reliable route.

Updated 09/10/2026. General guidance only; your fire strategy, designer and building control body decide what applies to a specific building.