Buyer’s Guide to Fire-Rated Glass
By OneDayGlass.com – U.S.-Based Manufacturer of FireLite NT and FireLite Plus Glass
Introduction to Fire-Rated Glass
Fire-rated glass is a critical component in modern architectural design, mandated by building codes to prevent the spread of fire, smoke, and toxic gases through doorways, windows, partitions, and walls. Unlike standard float glass, fire-rated glazing must withstand direct flame and high-temperature exposure for a specified period, maintaining structural integrity and visibility during an emergency.
This guide explores the types, certifications, specifications, and best practices for specifying fire- rated glazing in commercial and institutional projects.
Understanding Fire-Rated Glass Categories
There are two main performance categories:
- Fire-Protective Glass: Designed to contain smoke and flames; does not block radiant heat. Includes wired glass, glass ceramic, and specialty fire-protective glazing.
- Fire-Resistive Glass: Offers higher protection by also blocking radiant heat; meets ASTM E119 or UL 263. Typically used in wall assemblies with longer fire durations.
Note: One Day Glass offers fire-protective glazing (FireLite NT and FireLite Plus), UL-classified for up to 180 minutes.
Product Overview: FireLite® NT and FireLite® Plus
- Glass Type: 3/16″ (5 mm) glass ceramic with surface-applied safety film
- Applications: Vision panels in doors, sidelites, transoms, borrowed lites
- Fire Rating: 20 minutes to 180 minutes (UL 10B/10C/UL 9/NFPA 80 compliant)
- Impact Resistance: ANSI Z97.1 / CPSC 16 CFR 1201 Cat. I and II
- Transmission: 88% Visible Light Transmission
- STC Rating: 35
- Surface Options: Premium and Standard finish
- Warranty: 3 years
- Glass Type: 5/16″ (8 mm) laminated glass ceramic (glass + interlayer)
- Applications: Higher-impact areas, door assemblies, sidelites
- Fire Rating: 20 minutes to 180 minutes
- Impact Resistance: ANSI Z97.1 / CPSC 16 CFR 1201 Cat. I and II
- Transmission: 85% Visible Light Transmission
- STC Rating: 38
- Surface Options: Premium and Standard finish
- Warranty: 5 years
Technical Specifications
| Attribute | FireLite® NT | FireLite® NT |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | 3/16″ (5 mm) | 5/16″ (8 mm) |
| Weight | 2.56 lb/ft² | 4.0 lb/ft² |
| Visible Light Transmission | 88% | 85% |
| STC Rating | 35 | 38 |
| Surface Finish | Standard, Premium | Standard, Premium |
| Max Sheet Size | 48″ x 96″ | 48″ x 96″ |
Fire Performance Ratings and Code Compliance
Our fire-rated products are tested and certified according to rigorous North American fire safety standards:
- UL 9 (Fire tests of window assemblies)
- UL 10B, UL 10C (Fire tests of door assemblies)
- NFPA 80, NFPA 252, NFPA 257
- CAN/ULC-S104, CAN/ULC-S106
- MEA 290-90-M-6, LARR 25798
Fire-Rating Duration and Maximum Exposed Area
| Fire Rating | Use Type | Max Exposed Area | Max Width | Max Height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20-60 min | Doors (non-temp rise) | 3,204 in² | 36" | 95" |
| Doors (temp rise) | 100 in² | 12" | 33" | |
| Other Assemblies | 3,325 in² | 36" | 95" | |
| 90 min | Doors (non-temp rise) | 2,034 in² | 36" | 56.5" |
| Doors (temp rise) | 100 in² | 12" | 33" | |
| Other Assemblies | 2,627 in² | 33" | 56.5" | |
| 180 min | Doors | 100 in² | 12" | 33" |
Important: These ratings reflect maximum tested sizes and must comply with approved framing systems.
FireLite® NT and FireLite® Plus do not block radiant heat and should not be used in applications requiring ASTM E119/UL 263 compliance.
Framing & Installation Guidelines
Proper installation is essential to achieving the specified fire rating:
- Use tested and listed fire-rated framing systems.
- Glaze with fire-rated glazing tape for 90-minute assemblies over 1,393 in².
- Compatible with Fireframes® Designer Series or standard fire-rated metal frames.
- Use closed cell PVC tape or DAP 33 putty (as supplied by installer).
All glass must be inspected prior to installation for visible edge or surface damage.
Applications and Use Cases
- Commercial Doors: Offices, stairwells, corridor egress
- Institutional Buildings: Hospitals, schools, government facilities
- Industrial Facilities: Compliance in warehouse offices, control rooms
- Glazing Renovation: Replacing non-compliant or outdated glazing
Why One Day Glass?
- U.S.-based manufacturing with all cutting, processing, and shipping done in-house
- Industry-leading turnaround time – faster delivery than any national competitor
- Trusted supplier of FireLite and Neoceram glass ceramic products
- Unmatched expertise in code-compliant glazing solutions
Contact & Ordering
- Email: sales@onedayglass.com
- Phone: 800.452.6117
- Website: www.OneDayGlass.com
Based in the U.S., we support contractors, architects, and project managers nationwide with expert service and rapid order fulfillment.
Order now or reach out for technical support – and experience the fastest shipping in the fire-rated glass industry.
All packages are sent insured. Our standard shipping method is FedEx Ground which delivers most domestic shipments within 7 business days but in most cases we can ship as fast as FedEx Next Day Air.