How to make a fire rated ceiling

Fire Rated Ceiling Guide

How Do I Achieve A 60 Minute Fire Rated Suspended Ceiling?

A 60 minute fire rated suspended ceiling is not achieved by using a fire rated tile on its own. The ceiling tile, grid system, hangers, perimeter details and installation method must all match a tested system for the structure above.

Important: Fire rated ceilings must be specified correctly for the building and installation area. Always check the required rating with building control, the project specification, or the manufacturer’s tested system data before ordering.
Fire Rated Suspended Ceilings
General fire rated ceiling guide Fire Rating Explained
Understand ceiling fire performance Fire Protection Products Guide
Plan supporting products Ceiling Grids
Compatible grid systems

Fire Regulations And Suspended Ceilings

Like every other construction element, suspended ceilings in the UK may need to meet specific fire safety requirements. The required level of protection depends on the building type, ceiling void, structure above and the purpose of the area being protected.

Fire performance is commonly considered against BS 476 testing, including Parts 20–23. For a wider overview, read our guides to fire rated suspended ceilings, suspended ceiling fire ratings and ceiling tile safety and regulations.

Can I Use Fire Rated Tiles In My Existing Grid System?

Usually, not unless the tile and grid combination has been tested together as a complete system. A fire rated suspended ceiling is made up of compatible ceiling tiles, ceiling grid, suspension components and installation details.

For example, you cannot assume that an Armstrong or Zentia tile installed into a different manufacturer’s grid will deliver a certified fire rating. The tile and grid must be tested together for the specific application.

If you need a complete tested solution, view our fire rated suspended ceiling kits or browse compatible ceiling grid systems.

Does The Structure Above The Ceiling Matter?

Yes. The correct fire rated ceiling system depends heavily on what the suspended ceiling is installed below. Fire rated ceiling systems are normally tested for specific structural situations, including:

Structural Steel Beams
Concrete Soffits Or Floors
Timber Joists
Mezzanine Floors

A system that achieves 60 minutes below structural steel may not automatically achieve the same rating below timber joists or a mezzanine. For more background, see our guide to AMF system fire ratings.

Typical 30 And 60 Minute Fire Rated Ceiling System Options

The table below gives general guidance on common fire rated suspended ceiling options. Always confirm the final specification against manufacturer data and the project requirement.

Application 30 Minute Options 60 Minute Options
Under Structural Steel Beams
Board Edge		 Armstrong / Zentia Prelude Clipped System
  • Perla OP
  • Ultima OP
 Armstrong / Zentia Prelude Clipped System
AMF Non-Clipped System
Under Structural Steel Beams
Tegular Edge		 Confirm project-specific system availability before specifying. Armstrong / Zentia Prelude Clipped System
  • Dune Evo
  • Dune Evo Max
  • Dune Evo dB
  • Dune Plus including Colortone
  • Fine Fissured
  • Tatra
  • Cortega
  • Ultima dB
  • Sierra
  • Perla
  • Bioguard Plain
  • Bioguard Acoustic
  • Mezzanine DL100
  • Selected Orcal metal tile options with approved pads
Note: The above information is for general guidance only. Fire ratings vary depending on tile, grid, edge detail, soffit type, suspension method and installation conditions.

Helpful Fire Rated Ceiling Resources

Use the links below to compare related products, systems and technical guidance before choosing your ceiling specification.

Need Help Choosing A 60 Minute Fire Rated Ceiling?

Speak to Judge Ceilings for help matching the right tile, grid and system to your project.

Fire Rated Suspended Ceiling FAQs

Can a ceiling tile be fire rated on its own?
Not in the way many people assume. A tile may have a fire reaction classification, but a fire rated suspended ceiling usually depends on the complete tested system, including tile, grid, suspension and installation method.
Do I need a clipped ceiling grid for a 60 minute fire rating?
In many tested systems, hold-down clips or specific clipped grid arrangements are required. This depends on the manufacturer, tile type, edge detail and structure above.
Can I mix AMF tiles with Armstrong or Zentia grid?
You should not mix brands unless that exact combination has been tested and approved. Fire rated ceiling systems rely on tested compatibility.
What is the safest way to order a fire rated suspended ceiling?
The safest option is to choose a complete fire rated ceiling kit or ask for help matching the correct tile, grid and suspension components to the required fire rating and structure above.

Important Disclaimer

All product information, specifications, fire ratings and performance data displayed on this website are provided by manufacturers and are for guidance only.

We are a supplier and do not provide design, specification or technical approval services. It is the responsibility of the customer, contractor or project designer to ensure products are suitable for their intended use and comply with all relevant building regulations.

All technical details must be independently verified with the manufacturer and/or a qualified professional prior to ordering and installation.