Understanding EN13501-1 Fire Classification Standards
Understanding EN13501-1 and Fire Classification Standards for Timber & Board Materials
When specifying timber and sheet materials for construction projects, fire performance is one of the most important regulatory considerations. In the UK and across Europe, fire classification of building materials is governed by EN13501-1, the harmonised European standard for reaction to fire.
At Creffields Timber & Boards, we supply a wide range of timber, MDF, plywood and specialist fire-rated boards that meet the required performance standards for commercial and residential applications.
This guide explains EN13501-1 and other related standards — and how they apply to the timber and board products we supply.
What is EN13501-1?
EN13501-1 is the European standard that classifies the reaction to fire performance of construction materials. It replaces older national systems and provides a consistent rating across Europe.
Materials are tested and classified from:
A1 (non-combustible)
through to
F (no performance determined)
Most timber and wood-based panels fall within:
- Class B
- Class C
- Class D
Depending on treatment and thickness.
The classification also includes additional ratings for:
- Smoke production (s1, s2, s3)
- Flaming droplets/particles (d0, d1, d2)
For example:
B-s1,d0
This means limited combustibility, low smoke production, and no flaming droplets.
Why EN13501-1 Matters for Timber & MDF
Timber is naturally combustible, but with correct specification, thickness, and treatment, it can meet required building regulations.
Fire-rated MDF, plywood and treated timber products are commonly used in:
- Commercial interiors
- Retail fit-outs
- Schools and healthcare buildings
- Apartment blocks
- Corridors and escape routes
Creffields supplies timber and board materials suitable for projects requiring compliance with current UK Building Regulations and fire safety standards.
Other Key Fire & Timber Standards
While EN13501-1 covers reaction to fire classification, several other standards are relevant when specifying timber and sheet materials.
EN 13823 (SBI Test – Single Burning Item)
This test measures heat release, smoke production, and flame spread. It forms part of the EN13501-1 classification system.
EN ISO 11925-2
Tests ignitability when exposed to a small flame. Also used in determining EN13501-1 ratings.
EN 13986 – Wood-Based Panels for Use in Construction
This standard covers structural and non-structural wood panels including MDF, plywood, OSB and particleboard. It ensures panels meet performance and safety requirements for construction use.
Many boards supplied by Creffields are manufactured in accordance with EN 13986.
EN 622 Series – MDF Standards
The EN 622 family of standards covers different grades of MDF, including:
- EN 622-5 – Moisture Resistant MDF (MR MDF)
- Standard MDF classifications
- Load-bearing and non-load-bearing applications
Products such as MEDITE MDF and MR MDF supplied by Creffields are manufactured to these recognised European standards.
EN 13501-2 – Fire Resistance (Not Reaction)
It’s important to distinguish:
- EN13501-1 = Reaction to fire
- EN13501-2 = Fire resistance (how long a system resists fire)
Fire resistance applies to complete assemblies (walls, doors, partitions), not just individual boards.
Fire Retardant Timber & Boards
To improve fire performance, timber and boards can be:
- Pressure treated with fire-retardant chemicals
- Factory coated with intumescent systems
- Specified at greater thicknesses to achieve improved classification
At Creffields, we can help customers source:
- Fire-rated MDF
- Fire-retardant plywood
- Treated timber for internal applications
- Boards suitable for commercial compliance
Always ensure certification documentation is available for Building Control approval.
Choosing the Right Fire Classification for Your Project
When selecting timber or sheet materials, consider:
- Building type (residential, commercial, education, healthcare)
- Location within the building (escape routes require higher performance)
- Surface spread of flame requirements
- Smoke emission restrictions
- Whether sprinkler systems are present
Our experienced team at Creffields can assist in selecting compliant timber and board products for your project requirements.
Why Buy Fire-Rated Timber & Boards from Creffields?
Creffields Timber & Boards supplies a wide range of:
- MDF (Standard & Moisture Resistant)
- Plywood
- Structural timber
- Specialist sheet materials
- Joinery and interior construction boards
We work with trusted manufacturers who produce materials to recognised European and UK standards including EN 13501-1, EN 622, and EN 13986.
Whether you are a contractor, shopfitter, furniture manufacturer or developer, we can help you source compliant materials quickly and efficiently.
Need Advice on Fire Classification?
Understanding EN standards can be complex. If you are unsure which timber or board product is suitable for your project:
📞 Call Creffields on 0118 945 3533
🌐 Visit www.creffields.co.uk
Our team will be happy to help.
