The importance of fireproof interior cladding

Internal cladding is more than decoration. In a fire, wall and ceiling finishes can either slow the spread or feed the flames. That is why the UK Building Regulations (Approved Document B) set clear rules on the fire performance of internal linings.

Metals and mineral-based materials are classed as non-combustible. Plastics, foams and untreated timber are not – unless specifically tested and rated.

What “fireproof” really means

“Fireproof” is the common term, but it is not an official one. UK specifications deal with two different ideas:

• Reaction to fire – how a product ignites, spreads flame, produces heat, smoke or burning droplets. Rated A1 to F under BS EN 13501-1. A1 and A2 are non-combustible.
• Fire resistance – how long a full wall, floor or door assembly holds back fire, usually rated in minutes (30, 60 etc.).

These are separate. A lining might be non-combustible yet still need a fire-resisting wall behind it.

Keep them distinct when you read a test report.

The UK baseline for internal linings

Approved Document B (ADB) sets minimum Euroclass requirements for internal wall and ceiling linings. Here’s the quick version:

Location	Minimum Euroclass (reaction to fire)
Small rooms up to 4 m² in dwellings, or 30 m² in non-residential buildings	D-s3,d2
Other rooms, including garages	C-s3,d2
Circulation spaces (corridors, stairwells, lobbies)	B-s3,d2

ADB also allows certain wallcoverings that comply with BS EN 15102, provided they are bonded to an A2-s3,d2 substrate.
As a rule, escape routes and common areas should always aim for B-class or better.

The usual non-fireproof culprits

These materials often appear in interiors but rarely meet the safer end of the Euroclass scale unless upgraded or specially treated.

1. Standard decorative HPL (High Pressure Laminate)
   Most off-the-shelf laminates on MDF or particleboard are Euroclass D-s2,d0. Fire-retardant (FR) versions exist, but the full system – laminate + substrate + adhesive – determines compliance.

2. Untreated timber, MDF and plywood panelling
   Natural wood typically rates Euroclass D or E. With certified FR treatment it can reach B or C, but only if applied and maintained exactly as tested.

3. PVC wall and ceiling panels
   Common PVC tongue-and-groove panels are combustible and usually fall around Euroclass C or D. Marketing terms like “self-extinguishing” are not proof. Ask for a current EN 13501-1 report.

4. Polyurethane acoustic foams
   Lightweight foam panels and sound absorbers can ignite quickly and give off heavy smoke. Use only tested acoustic systems with verified Euroclass ratings if they are to remain exposed.

5. Expanded polystyrene décor panels or coving
   Bare EPS is Euroclass F; even flame-retarded types sit at E. Exposed EPS is unsuitable for occupied interiors.

6. Unverified fabric or vinyl wallcoverings
   Wallcoverings must comply with BS EN 15102 and be installed over a suitable non-combustible backing. Unrated fabrics can turn a feature wall into a hazard.

Rule of thumb: if it’s plastic, foam, paper, fabric or untreated wood, treat it as combustible until proven otherwise with an up-to-date UK classification report.

Why metals are the safe default

Metals such as aluminium, steel, zinc and copper are classed as A1 non-combustible materials under BS EN 13501-1.

They do not burn, produce smoke, or drip molten particles. That makes them a reliable base for interiors where fire performance must be documented – hotels, offices, restaurants, high-end homes, and shared residential spaces.

A safer option for feature walls – metal tiles

If you want visual drama without compromising compliance, go for a system that’s inherently safe.

DASA 3D Metal Tiles are non-combustible metal cladding panels designed for both internal and external use.

Each tile locks onto a precision-made mechanical rail system, creating a clean 25 mm service cavity – ideal for cabling or concealed fixings. No glue, no guesswork, no combustible backing.

Why specifiers like them

• Non-combustible A-class metal construction, perfect for internal linings needing B-class or better.
• Mechanical fixing system avoids adhesive risks and keeps performance consistent.
• Optional acoustic backing for sound control without the fire compromise.
• British-made with over a dozen textures, patterns and finishes to suit any design scheme.

If your wall needs to turn heads and tick boxes, metal tiles do both – safely.

Quick UK spec checklist

1. Check the space type in Approved Document B and note the target class.
2. Request a BS EN 13501-1 classification report for the complete system, not just the decorative face.
3. Look for s1 and d0 ratings where possible – less smoke, no flaming droplets.
4. Ignore old “Class 0” labels. The UK now recognises Euroclass ratings.
5. Count adhesives and substrates as part of the system. They can downgrade performance.
6. When in doubt, default to A-class materials such as metal for a clean sign-off.

The bottom line

If it burns, it’s a risk.
If it doesn’t, it’s peace of mind.
For interiors that demand both beauty and safety, DASA 3D Metal Tiles deliver clean design, clear compliance, and zero flammability.

Sources & standards

• Approved Document B, Volume 1 & 2, 2022 edition – Internal Linings, Table 10.1.
• BS EN 13501-1 – Fire classification of construction products and building elements.
• BS EN 15102 – Decorative wallcoverings – fire performance.
• Industry data on untreated timber (Euroclass D–E) and standard HPL (Euroclass D-s2,d0).
• UK guidance from the Building Safety Regulator and Fire Industry Association.

Always confirm details with Building Control for your specific project.