A1 Non-combustible Fireproof Membranes
Breather & Vapour Control
For Buildings With a Higher Risk For Fire Safety
Suitable For Applications Over 18m High
Thermic Technology has developed the UK’s first A1 Non-Combustible Reflective Membranes! These innovative membranes are classified as A1 non-combustible according to BS EN13501-1 standards. Being A1 non-combustible means they do not burn, thus significantly reducing the risk of fire spread. This property not only enhances safety but also helps contain a fire within a limited area, providing crucial time for evacuation and firefighting efforts.
Our membranes are suitable for a variety of external wall types, including timber frame, metal stud, and concrete. They are specifically designed for buildings that face higher fire risk, such as residential blocks of flats, student accommodations, care homes, sheltered housing, hospitals, and dormitories in boarding schools with a storey height exceeding 18 m. Additionally, they are ideal for high-risk residential buildings (HRRB), ensuring compliance with the latest safety regulations.
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) has actively participated in governmental consultations regarding the prohibition of combustible materials in external walls of high-rise residential buildings. Their recommendation emphasises the use of European Classification A1 over A2 for external wall construction, aiming to enhance protection against smoke production and flaming particles or droplets.
PhotonWrap-A1 Non-Combustible Breather Membrane
- Reflective breather membrane, external fitting – Designed for external application, the PhotonWrap-A1 reflects radiant heat, contributing to energy efficiency.
- Excellent vapour permeability – This feature allows moisture to escape, preventing condensation build-up and maintaining a healthy indoor environment.
- Class W2 resistance to water penetration – Ensuring the building envelope remains protected from moisture ingress.
- Low emissivity surface boosts thermal performance – The low emissivity surface reduces heat loss, enhancing the overall thermal efficiency of the building.
- UV, heat, and corrosion resistant – Engineered to withstand harsh environmental conditions, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability.
PhotonCheck-A1 Non-Combustible AVCL Membrane
- Installed on the warm side of insulation – This strategic placement effectively minimises heat loss and maximises insulation performance.
- Low emissivity surface boosts thermal performance – Similar to PhotonWrap, this feature helps maintain optimal indoor temperatures by reflecting heat back into the living spaces.
- Excellent vapour resistance – Prevents unwanted moisture from penetrating the building fabric, safeguarding against deterioration and mould growth.
- Class W1 resistance to water penetration – Providing the highest level of water resistance.
- Reduces unwanted air leakage – The membrane acts as a barrier to drafts, improving energy efficiency and indoor comfort.
- UV, heat, and corrosion resistant – Designed to endure various environmental challenges, ensuring durability and effectiveness.
Unique woven glass and aluminium foil composites that are certified as A1 non-combustible in accordance with BS EN13501-1 by BRE Global Ltd (Report Number Q100799-1004). Our membranes have undergone rigorous independent testing and certification to meet the latest European Standards by accredited European test houses.
Main applications for A1 Non-Combustible Reflective Membranes
- Used in high-rise residential, commercial, and public buildings where fire safety regulations require strictly non-combustible materials.
- Suitable for facades, rainscreen cladding systems, and curtain walls, ensuring compliance with strict fire codes.
- Breather membrane Installed behind external cladding as part of the rainscreen cavity barrier system.
- Provides secondary weather protection while reflecting radiant heat, helping improve insulation performance.
- Common in ventilated facade systems.
- AVCL membrane applied within internal wall build-ups where Class A1 fire safety and vapour control are needed.
- Often used in hospitals, schools, transport hubs, and other high-occupancy buildings.
- The reflective surface helps to improve the overall U-value of walls, roofs, and floors.
- Reduces radiant heat transfer in both hot and cold climates.
- Often combined with mineral wool or other non-combustible insulation.
- Breathable membrane in a facade system prevents water penetration from the outside while allowing water vapour to escape from the building interior, protecting the structure from moisture damage and maintaining a healthy indoor environment.
- AVCL membrane acts as a vapour control layer (VCL), preventing interstitial condensation within wall and roof assemblies.
- Protects insulation and structural elements from moisture damage.
- Widely specified in airports, transport stations, tunnels, and data centres, where fire safety, durability, and controlled internal environments are critical.
- Also used in industrial facilities and cleanrooms.
Contact Us
For expert advice on installation, project support, U-value, or condensation risk calculations, our knowledgeable team is just a phone call away, ready to assist you with your fire safety needs.
