Timber Frame Fire Performance

Fire safety is a key design consideration in timber frame construction. Timber frame systems are developed following current Building Regulations, using tested and certified materials to support safe, compliant building outcomes across residential and commercial applications.

How Timber Frame Performs in Fire

Timber is a combustible material, but when properly designed and protected, it performs predictably and safely under fire conditions. Timber chars at a known rate, forming an insulating layer that protects the core structural section and helps maintain load-bearing capacity for a defined period.

Timber frame walls and floors are typically protected with layers of fire-resistant materials such as plasterboard, sheathing, and insulation, which delay ignition, limit flame spread, and reduce heat transfer. These protective linings are crucial in meeting fire resistance targets, particularly in separating elements or multi-storey structures.

Compliance with UK Fire Safety Regulations

Approved Document B (England and Wales)
Section 2 of the Scottish Building Standards
Technical Booklet E (Northern Ireland)
BS EN 1995-1-2:2004
BS EN 1365-1:2012
Structural Timber Association (STA) guidance

Designing for Fire Safety On and Off Site

Fire during construction

Timber structures are more vulnerable before fire-resistant linings and cavity barriers are installed. FrameCo works in line with HSG168 and STA Site Safe protocols, incorporating fire strategy planning, phased compartmentation and careful delivery sequencing to limit the exposure of unprotected timber.

Completed building performance

Once enclosed, the timber frame performs to the same fire safety standards as other structural systems. The correct use of tested linings, fire-rated insulation and cavity barriers ensures compliance with Approved Document B and helps to prevent the spread of fire both internally and externally.

Fire stopping and detailing

We provide clear guidance on cavity barriers, fire stops and service penetrations. Proper installation is essential to maintain fire compartmentation and to achieve tested performance on site.

Whether you are designing a private home, a multi-unit scheme or a non-residential building, FrameCo offers the technical expertise to help your timber frame system meet fire safety requirements at every stage, from design to completion.