Ceramic vs Non-Ceramic Fire Rated Glazing Tape - Which One Do You Need?

When specifying or replacing glazing materials in a fire-rated window, door or screen, one question comes up regularly:

Should I use ceramic glazing tape or a non-ceramic alternative such as Superwool?

Both types of tape are used in fire-resistant glazing applications, but they have different characteristics. Choosing the correct material depends on the glazing system, the frame, the glass, the required performance and, importantly, the specification or tested system being followed.

At Fireprotect, we manufacture and supply both ceramic and non-ceramic glazing tapes, along with setting blocks, gaskets, seals, intumescent products and fire-rated sealants.

What is fire-rated glazing tape?

Fire-rated glazing tape is used as part of a glazing system to help provide the required separation and protection between the glass and its surrounding frame.

In a fire-resistant window or door, every component matters. The glass, frame, glazing tape or gasket, setting blocks, sealant and method of installation can all form part of the tested or assessed system.

This means that simply choosing a tape because it has a high temperature rating does not automatically mean that the finished window or door will achieve a particular fire rating.

The complete glazing system needs to be appropriate for the intended application.

What is ceramic glazing tape?

Ceramic glazing tape is manufactured from ceramic fibre and is designed to withstand extremely high temperatures.

Fireprotect's ceramic glazing tape is made from ceramic fibre paper with a self-adhesive coating and removable backing paper, making it straightforward to handle, cut and install. The ceramic fibre itself has high-temperature stability of up to 1260°C, while the adhesive backing has a much lower temperature limit.

Ceramic tape is commonly used as a bedding material in fire-resistant glazing applications, including commercial glazing and fire doors.

Advantages of ceramic glazing tape include:

• Excellent high-temperature stability

• Flexible and easy to handle

• Easy to cut and shape

• Available in different widths and thicknesses

• Self-adhesive options make installation easier

• Suitable for a wide range of fire-resistant glazing applications

What is non-ceramic glazing tape?

Non-ceramic glazing tape is designed as an alternative to traditional ceramic fibre products.

At Fireprotect, our Superwool glazing tape is manufactured using body-soluble fibres and specially selected binders. It provides a flexible material with low thermal conductivity, low heat storage and good mechanical strength. The material has thermal stability of up to 1200°C, while the self-adhesive backing has a lower temperature limit.

One of the reasons customers choose non-ceramic tape is that it can provide a practical alternative where ceramic fibre products are not preferred or where workplace handling requirements make a ceramic-free solution more suitable.

Ceramic vs non-ceramic glazing tape

So, what is the difference?

If you're replacing an existing ceramic tape with a non-ceramic alternative, it's important to check the relevant system documentation and installation requirements first.

If you're unsure which product you need, it's much better to ask before ordering.

Why are setting blocks important?

Glazing tape isn't the only material that matters.

Setting blocks support the glass and help position it correctly within the frame. In a fire-resistant glazing system, the correct type, size and position of setting blocks can be important to the performance of the complete assembly.

Fireprotect supplies fire-rated setting blocks alongside glazing tapes, gaskets and other passive fire protection products.

This means customers can source several of the materials they need from one specialist supplier.

What about intumescent tape?

Intumescent products work differently from ceramic and Superwool glazing tapes.

An intumescent material expands when exposed to heat, helping to close gaps and maintain protection as temperatures rise.

Intumescent tapes and other fire-resistant seals are used in a variety of passive fire protection applications, but once again, the correct product depends on the particular system and application.

Fireprotect supplies both intumescent tapes and glazing tapes, allowing customers to choose from a range of passive fire protection materials.

Choosing the right fire-rated glazing tape

If you're buying fire-rated glazing tape, don't just search for the highest temperature rating.

Instead, establish:

• The type of glass

• The frame material

• Glass thickness

• Required fire performance

• Rebate dimensions

• Required tape thickness and width

• Whether the tape needs to be ceramic or ceramic-free and in White or Black

• The requirements of the tested or assessed glazing system

• Whether setting blocks, gaskets or sealants are also required

Getting these details right at the beginning can save time, prevent incorrect orders and help ensure that the glazing system is installed as specified.

Fireprotect – ceramic and non-ceramic glazing tape

Fireprotect manufactures and supplies a range of products for fire-resistant glazing and passive fire protection.

Our range includes:

• Ceramic glazing tape

• Superwool non-ceramic glazing tape

• Black non-ceramic glazing tape

• Setting blocks

• Fire-rated gaskets and seals

• Intumescent tapes

Feature	Ceramic glazing tape	Non-ceramic / Superwool tape
Material	Ceramic fibre	Body-soluble fibre
High-temperature stability	Up to 1260°C for the ceramic paper	Up to 1200°C for the tape material
Flexibility	Flexible	Highly flexible
Cutting and shaping	Easy	Easy
Typical use	Fire-resistant glazing	Fire-resistant glazing
Ceramic-free option	No	Yes
Available in different sizes	Yes	Yes

The important point is that temperature resistance alone should not be used to select a glazing tape.

The correct product needs to match the particular glazing construction and the evidence supporting that system.

Which glazing tape should I use?

There isn't a single tape that is right for every fire-rated window or door.

When selecting a glazing tape, consider:

1. What type of glass are you using?

Different fire-resistant glass products and constructions can have different installation requirements.

The glazing system should be installed in accordance with the glass manufacturer's and system designer's requirements.

2. What type of frame is being used?

Aluminium, steel, timber and other framing systems can have different glazing arrangements.

The rebate dimensions, glass thickness, bead arrangement and fixing method can all affect the required materials.

3. What fire performance is required?

Fire-resistant glazing can be classified for different performance characteristics, including integrity (E) and insulation (I).

BS EN 13501-2 is used for the classification of fire resistance performance, including fire-resistant doorsets, openable windows and other non-loadbearing elements with or without glazing.

The required performance should therefore be established before selecting individual components.

4. Is the system tested or assessed?

This is one of the most important considerations.

A glazing tape should not be selected simply because its material can withstand a particular temperature.

The performance of fire-resistant glazing is dependent on the complete construction, including the glass, frame, glazing materials and installation details. Always refer to the test certificate relevant to the system you’re fitting.

The definition of a glazing system can include glazing strips, beads, bead fixings, setting blocks, gaskets and sealants as well as the glass and framing system.

Can non-ceramic tape replace ceramic tape?

Sometimes, but it should not be assumed.

Fireprotect's Superwool glazing tape can, in many applications, be used as an alternative to ceramic tape. However, the suitability of a particular tape depends on the application and the specification of the glazing system.

• Fire-rated sealants

• Firestop 700

• Other passive fire protection products

Our ceramic glazing tape is available in a range of sizes, while our Superwool products provide a flexible ceramic-free alternative for suitable applications.

We're happy to discuss your requirements and help you identify the appropriate product for your application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ceramic glazing tape fireproof?

Ceramic fibre glazing tape is designed for high-temperature applications and the ceramic fibre itself has very high temperature stability. However, the performance of a fire-rated glazing assembly depends on the complete tested or assessed system rather than the tape in isolation.

Is Superwool the same as ceramic tape?

No. Superwool is a ceramic-free, body-soluble fibre product designed for high-temperature applications. It can be used in many applications where ceramic tape might otherwise be considered, subject to the requirements of the particular glazing system.

Can I replace ceramic tape with Superwool?

It may be possible in some applications, but you should check the relevant system specification before making a substitution.

What size fire-rated glazing tape do I need?

This depends on the particular glazing system, including the frame, glass and rebate dimensions. The tape should be selected according to the specified installation requirements rather than simply choosing a size that looks suitable.

Do you supply setting blocks as well as glazing tape?

Yes. Fireprotect supplies setting blocks alongside ceramic and non-ceramic glazing tapes, gaskets, seals, intumescent tapes and fire-rated sealants.

Can Fireprotect help me choose the right tape?

Yes. If you're unsure whether you need ceramic, Superwool or another fire-rated glazing product, contact Fireprotect with as much information as possible about the glass, frame and application.

Call us on 01244 536595 or email enquiries@fireprotect.co.uk.

Need help choosing?

If you're working on a fire-rated window, door or glazing project and aren't sure which tape or seal you need, speak to Fireprotect before ordering.

With over 40 years of experience in passive fire protection, we manufacture and supply ceramic, non-ceramic and intumescent tapes, together with setting blocks, gaskets, seals and fire-rated sealants.

Fireprotect – specialist manufacturers and suppliers of passive fire protection products.

Passive Fire Protection In Industrial Properties

🔥 Passive Fire Protection in Industrial Properties: Why It Matters More Than You Think

Let’s be honest — fire safety isn’t exactly the most exciting topic in the world. You don’t often hear people chatting about fire-rated walls over a coffee. But if you own, manage, or even just work in an industrial property — a warehouse, factory, or big commercial unit — it really pays to know a bit about passive fire protection (PFP). It’s one of those behind-the-scenes heroes that could literally save lives, protect your building, and keep your business running.

So let’s break it down — no jargon, no lectures, just the basics.

🧯 First off: What is passive fire protection?

Passive fire protection (or PFP if you want to sound fancy) is all about building in fire safety— literally. It’s made up of the materials and systems that are already part of the structure of your building. Unlike fire extinguishers or sprinklers (which are called “active” systems because someone or something has to activate them), passive fire protection is just... there. All the time. Working quietly in the background.

Think of things like:

• 🔸 Fire-rated walls and ceilings

• 🔸 Fire doors that actually stay shut

• 🔸 Intumescent seals that swell up in heat

• 🔸 Fire-resistant glazing (yep, even windows can be fire-smart)

• 🔸 Fire-stopping materials around pipes, ducts, and cables

🧱 Why’s it such a big deal in industrial buildings?

Industrial properties tend to be big, busy, and full of… well… stuff. Machinery, stock, packaging, electrical systems — and in some cases, flammable materials. If a fire does break out, it can spread fast and do a lot of damage before anyone even notices.

Passive fire protection slows that down.

It buys precious time — time for people to get out safely, time for fire crews to get in, and time to stop the whole place going up like a bonfire. In short: it can be the difference between a small incident and a total disaster.

Here’s why it’s especially important in industrial settings:

• 🏭 Large open spaces mean fire can move quickly if not compartmentalised.

• 📦 High fire loads (lots of materials or goods stored) can feed a blaze.

• 👷 Shift work and night operations mean people may be inside at all hours.

• 💰 Business continuity — even a small fire can shut operations down for weeks.

🔍 What does passive fire protection actually look like?

Here’s the thing — you probably don’t notice it. And that’s the point. It’s not big red alarms or dramatic flashing lights. It’s usually tucked away in walls, floors, ceilings, and doors. Some examples:

• ✅ Fire-rated partition walls keep a fire in one area instead of letting it spread across the building.

• ✅ Intumescent mastic (that’s a special kind of sealant) used around pipes or cables. It swells up in heat to seal gaps.

• ✅ Fire doors that close automatically and have heat-resistant seals.

• ✅ Fire-resistant glass in windows and screens, so visibility doesn’t mean vulnerability.

It’s all about compartmentation — splitting a building into “zones” so fire can’t just race through the whole space unchecked.

💡 So, who’s responsible for it?

Good question. In the UK (and most other places), it’s the duty of the building owner or responsible person to make sure fire safety measures — including passive ones — are properly installed, maintained, and documented. That includes:

• 🔧 Regular inspections

• 📋 Fire risk assessments

• 🧰 Using certified fire-rated products and installers

• 🛠️ Not cutting corners during refurbishments (yes, that includes sealing that awkward hole behind the ductwork!)

If you’re renting an industrial unit, it’s still worth knowing what passive systems are in place. Ask questions. Look for labels on fire doors. Make sure nothing’s been drilled through a fire barrier “just to run a cable through”.

🚫 Common mistakes to avoid

Sadly, even the best fire protection can be ruined by simple mistakes. Here are a few things that make fire safety nerds cry:

• ❌ Wedges holding fire doors open (please don’t!)

• ❌ Tradespeople drilling holes in fire-rated walls and not sealing them

• ❌ Painted-over or missing intumescent strips

• ❌ Using non-fire-rated materials during refurb works

• ❌ Not having the work certified or recorded

Remember: if you break a fire barrier, you break the protection.

🧭 Final thoughts

Passive fire protection isn’t glamorous. It doesn’t beep or spray or make headlines. But in the world of industrial properties, it’s an absolute must. It’s about protecting your people, your premises, and your peace of mind.

So next time you walk past a chunky fire door or spot some weird grey sealant around a pipe — give it a little nod of respect. It’s working harder than you think.

🛠️ Want to learn more?

If you’re managing or refurbishing an industrial site, it’s worth getting a proper fire safety survey done. It’ll highlight what’s in place, what’s missing, and what might need upgrading. And trust us — doing it now is way cheaper than dealing with the consequences later.

Not Just Any Goo Will Do

Why Using the Right Sealant or Mastic in Fire-Rated Windows and Doors Actually Matters

When it comes to fire-rated windows and doors, most people think about the glass, the frame, or maybe the fancy intumescent strips that swell up when they get hot. But one thing that often flies under the radar — and honestly shouldn't — is the sealant or mastic used around those installations. Believe it or not, that little bead of goo can make a massive difference between a fire staying contained... or chaos breaking loose.

Let's get one thing straight

You can't just grab the cheapest tube of sealant from the hardware store and slap it on a fire-rated window or door. Regular silicone or acrylic sealants aren't designed to stand up to high temperatures. In a fire, they'd melt away faster than a chocolate bar on a dashboard, leaving big gaps where smoke, hot gases, and flames can shoot through.

Fire-rated sealants and mastics, on the other hand, are specially formulated to either resist burning, expand when heated, or do both. They maintain the integrity of the fire barrier, giving people more time to get out safely and giving firefighters a better chance to control the blaze.

It's About the Whole System

A fire-rated door or window isn't just about one tough component. It's a system — and every part needs to work together. The glass, the frame, the door leaf, the hinges, the locks, the sealant... all of it is tested as a unit. If you swap out a certified fire-rated mastic for something else, you're basically breaking the system. And if the worst happens, that could mean faster fire spread, more damage, and even risk to lives.

Worse still, in commercial settings, using the wrong sealant can lead to inspection failures, legal headaches, and insurance claims being denied. No one wants to be explaining to a boss or a building inspector why they cut corners on a critical fire safety detail.

It’s Not Rocket Science (But It’s Important)

Choosing the right fire-rated mastic or sealant isn't hard. Most products clearly say "fire-rated" on the label, along with information about how many minutes of protection they offer (30, 60, 90 minutes, etc.). Such as Dowsil Firestop 700, Dowsil Firestop 400, Lorient Intumescent mastic,and Lorient acoustic acrylic sealant. Stick to the ones that have proper certifications (like BS 476, EN 1366, ASTM E814 — depending on your country) and check that they are approved for the specific application you're working on.

Also, make sure you're using it properly. Follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines: thickness of the bead, joint size, curing time, all of it matters. A rushed or messy job can be just as bad as using the wrong product altogether.

Final Thought

At the end of the day, using the right sealant or mastic in fire-rated windows and doors is about doing the job right — and protecting people’s lives. It's a tiny detail that makes a huge difference. So next time you're reaching for a tube of something to finish up a fire-rated install, take a second and make sure you're using the good stuff. It's a small step that could have massive consequences if overlooked, and data sheets you may need are here https://www.fireprotect.co.uk/adhesives