Non-combustible components are essential for every balcony on residential buildings over 11 metres, but what should you look for in a pedestal?
Since the 2018 change in Building Regulations – which were brought about by the Grenfell Tower tragedy – and the subsequent update, there are an increasing number of building product manufacturers delivering solutions that help you to achieve compliance.
With so many options out there, this article seeks to explore key elements to look out for when specifying fire-rated pedestals.
Seeking Fire Certification
Unless a pedestal is Class A1 rated, you will need to ensure test certification is available to show that the product reaches the required Class A2 s1 d0 fire rating.
Products such as the A-PED are naturally non-combustible due to their aluminium and steel composition. This means that it does not need additional certification in order to be specified on a high-rise attachment.
Products that are Class A2 rated will need certification as they may produce smoke or flaming droplets when exposed to fire. It is important to note, however, that both Class A1 and A2 can be specified on high-rise attachments above 11 metres.
It is also crucial that pedestal accessories should also be made of appropriate A-rated materials. You do not want to compromise fire-safety with plastic shims or spacers, for example. This is a really important consideration that should not be overlooked.
Fire-Rated Pedestals: What Key Characteristics Should I Look Out For?
When researching fire-rated pedestals, you should seek a solution that encompasses a wide range of characteristics to ensure you get the most out of your spend.
Look out for:
- High load-bearing capability
- Large load-spreading base of 170mm+ if using with membranes
- Millimeter-precise slope-correction functionality
- Wide adjustment range
- Fire-rated accessories
- Self-draining
- UV Resistant
- Chemical Resistant
- Maintenance-free
- Suitable for use in a variety of temperatures
Choosing The Right Manufacturer For Your Fire-Rated Pedestal
When specifying external flooring applications, it’s crucial that you choose a company whose past projects speak for themselves.
The quality of project that the manufacturer has been involved in will say a lot about the quality of work that they are able to produce.
On a similar note, specifiers should seek to choose a manufacturer that has a wealth of experience within the external flooring market. Building Regs have come under intense scrutiny in recent years and you need to be assured that the partner you decide to work with has the experience and skills to deliver a safe outcome.
Fire-Rated Pedestals Are Just One Component
Of course, the flooring application as a whole needs to be considered when considering design ideas for your next project. As important as they are, pedestals are only one component of a much bigger solution.
In this instance, you need a flooring application that also delivers Class A-rated compliance. Thankfully, there are a variety of non-combustible finish options to choose from such as timber decking alternative Zerodeck, or 20mm external porcelain.
Depending on what your aims are – and the purpose of application – each surface material listed above has its own unique properties, allowing you to produce aesthetic (yet safe) flooring.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a quality provider of Class A rated pedestals for your next development, take a look at the Buzon range of adjustable pedestals. With 5 ranges of pedestals, including two fire-rated options, and a whole host of technical features that will support any design choices and technical requirement.
Did you know we also offer site-specific advice, surveys and training (subject to location)?
If you’d like to discuss your requirements further, don’t hesitate to speak to an expert by calling us on +44 (0)20 8614 0874 or emailing info@buzonuk.com.
