Steel, aluminium or timber: which fire-rated screen should you choose?

Steel suits high ratings, large panes and slim sightlines; aluminium suits modern fit-outs at 30 and 60 minutes and can match non-rated partitions; timber suits warmer interiors, schools, housing and heritage buildings. All three can be fire-rated when the complete system has been tested.

Steel

Strong at high temperature and able to carry heavy insulating glass with slim profiles. Often the choice for EI 60 and above or very large panes.

Aluminium

Light and modern, relying on internal inserts for fire performance. Widely available at 30 and 60 minutes.

Timber

Hardwood frames with intumescent seals, common at 30 and 60 minutes. Species, density and bead details are all part of the rating.

Frameless

Butt-jointed systems give the clearest view, within strict tested limits and at a higher cost.

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