This Wood Information Sheet, produced in association with the UK Timber Frame Association, explains the basic principles used in meeting fire performance requirements and provides guidance to ensure that all parties involved understand their role in the design and construction of a timber frame building.

The sheet considers both the design and construction of the timber frame building in relation to the Building Regulations for England and Wales. It also looks at fire safety on construction sites.

Contents:
How buildings behave in fire
How timber performs in fire
Essential elements for fire resistance
Typical tasks for designers and builders
Fire during construction
Restoration after a fire

A building fire is a complex phenomenon that the building industry divides (for the purpose of testing) into two stages – ignition and fire-growth, and the fully developed fire.

Timber burns steadily at a predictable rate and, in the process, chacoal is formed on the surface of the timber, which serves to insulate and protect the core.

The correct installation of cavity barriers on a timber frame site is of paramount importance.