SPC Flooring Fire Rating Class B: What It Means and How It Is Tested
What Does "Class B" Mean for SPC Flooring?
A fire rating is a classification that describes how a material behaves when exposed to fire. For flooring products, the fire rating is determined by standardized laboratory tests, and the result is expressed as a classification that can be compared against building code requirements.
For SPC flooring in Europe, the relevant classification is EN 13501-1, and the flooring-specific classification is expressed as Bfl-s1, Cfl-s1, and similar. For US projects, the relevant test is often ASTM E84, which measures surface flame spread and smoke development.
These two systems are not equivalent, and they should not be treated as simple equivalents. EN 13501-1 is a European classification system for reaction-to-fire performance; ASTM E84 is a US test method for surface burning characteristics. A product may hold a classification under one system and be tested under the other, but the results are not directly comparable.
For procurement, the classification of the specific product—verified by the test report for the specific product, thickness, construction, and intended end-use—is what matters. General claims are not sufficient.
What Does Class B Mean for SPC Flooring?
Reaction to Fire vs Fire Resistance
Fire classification for flooring is a reaction-to-fire classification, not a fire-resistance rating. These are two different concepts:
Reaction to fire describes how a material contributes to fire development—how easily it ignites, how fast flame spreads, how much heat it releases, and how much smoke it produces. Reaction to fire is classified under EN 13501-1 (Europe) and ASTM E84 (US).
Fire resistance describes how long a building element (such as a wall, floor, or door) can maintain its function during a fire—structural integrity, insulation, and integrity. Fire resistance is classified under EN 13501-2 (Europe) and is expressed in minutes (e.g., REI 60).
Flooring fire classification is not the same as fire-resistant floor assembly, and it is not the same as fireproof flooring. A Class B SPC floor is classified for its reaction to fire—it does not make the floor assembly fire-resistant.
What Does Bfl-s1 Mean?
The European flooring fire classification for SPC is expressed as a combination of letters and numbers:
B is the main classification (reaction to fire). Flooring classifications are Afl, Bfl, Cfl, Dfl, Efl, and Ffl. A is the highest; F is unclassified.
fl indicates that the classification is for flooring products.
s1 indicates the smoke production class. s1 = little or no smoke; s2 = moderate smoke; s3 = heavy smoke.
d0, d1, d2 (where applicable) indicate the flaming droplet class. d0 = no flaming droplets; d1 = some flaming droplets; d2 = heavy flaming droplets.
For example, a product classified as Bfl-s1, d0 has Class B flooring reaction-to-fire, smoke class 1 (little or no smoke), and droplet class 0 (no flaming droplets). This is a common specification for escape routes and public buildings.
Depending on the product and test, other classifications such as Cfl-s1 may also be reported.
Why Flooring Uses the "fl" Classification
Flooring products are classified under a flooring-specific system (the "fl" classification) because flooring is tested in a horizontal orientation, and the fire behaviour of a horizontal surface differs from that of a vertical surface (such as a wall). The "fl" classification reflects the actual installation orientation and the relevant test methods for flooring.
How Is SPC Flooring Fire Rating Tested?
The following tests are commonly used to evaluate the fire performance of SPC flooring.
EN 13501-1
EN 13501-1 is the European standard for fire classification of construction products. For flooring products, the classification is expressed as Afl, Bfl, Cfl, Dfl, Efl, or Ffl, with additional smoke (s1, s2, s3) and flaming droplet (d0, d1, d2) classes where applicable.
EN ISO 9239-1
EN ISO 9239-1 is the radiant panel test for flooring. It measures the critical radiant flux at flameout (CFE) and the flame spread behaviour of the flooring under a radiant heat source. This test is used as part of the EN 13501-1 classification for flooring.
EN 13823
EN 13823 is the Single Burning Item (SBI) test. It measures heat release, smoke production, and flaming droplets under a controlled fire scenario. The results are used as part of the EN 13501-1 classification.
Smoke Classification
Smoke production is classified as s1 (little or no smoke), s2 (moderate smoke), or s3 (heavy smoke). For commercial and public buildings, s1 is typically required.
Flaming Droplets
Flaming droplets are classified as d0 (no flaming droplets), d1 (some flaming droplets), or d2 (heavy flaming droplets). For escape routes and public buildings, d0 is typically required.
ASTM E84 for US Projects
ASTM E84 is a US test method for surface burning characteristics. It measures the flame spread index (FSI) and smoke developed index (SDI) of a material. For US projects, the classification is expressed as Class A (FSI 0–25), Class B (FSI 26–75), or Class C (FSI 76–200).
Important note: ASTM E84 is a test method, not a classification system equivalent to EN 13501-1. The two systems are different and should not be treated as direct equivalents. For a specific project, verify the applicable test method and classification against the local building code and the product test report.
How Test Results Are Expressed
The test results are expressed as a classification. For example, a product tested under EN 13501-1 might be classified as Bfl-s1, d0. The classification is stated in the test report and can be compared against the project requirements.
Why Do Different SPC Floors Have Different Fire Ratings?
SPC flooring fire ratings depend on the product formulation and construction. The following factors can affect the fire rating:
Core Formulation
The SPC core is a composite of calcium carbonate and PVC. The PVC content contributes to the fire behaviour of the product—chlorine-containing polymers naturally resist ignition and flame spread. The calcium carbonate filler dilutes the combustible content. Flame retardant additives may also be used, depending on the product formulation.
Typical SPC core formulations contain PVC resin and calcium carbonate filler, with the ratio varying by product. Verify the specific formulation with the manufacturer.
Wear Layer
The wear layer is a transparent PVC layer, sometimes with aluminum oxide added. The wear layer formulation can affect flame spread on the surface.
Backing
The backing layer (foam, cork, felt, or IXPE/EVA) can affect the fire performance of the product. Foam backing, in particular, may increase flammability if not treated with flame retardants. The backing material should be specified to be compatible with the required fire classification.
Thickness and Construction
The overall thickness and construction of the product affect the fire behaviour. The layer composition (wear layer, decorative layer, core, backing) and the bonding between layers can affect fire performance.
Important note: The specific formulation and construction of a product determine its fire rating. Do not assume that all SPC products have the same fire performance—verify the specific product's test report.
SPC Flooring Fire Rating Test Parameters
| Test / Classification | What It Measures | Applicable Market |
|---|---|---|
| EN 13501-1 | Reaction-to-fire classification | Europe |
| EN ISO 9239-1 | Critical radiant flux / flame spread behaviour | Flooring (Europe) |
| EN 13823 | Heat release / smoke / flaming droplets | Europe |
| ASTM E84 | Flame spread / smoke developed | US |
| Product test report | Actual product classification | All markets (verify against project requirements) |
Important note: Specific test values (CFE, FIGRA, THR600s, SMOGRA, TSP600s, FSI, SDI) are product-specific and should be taken from the test report for the specific product. Do not rely on general values—request the test report.
For the specific test results for our SPC products, contact us for the technical datasheet and test reports.
How to Verify an SPC Flooring Fire Rating
Verifying a fire rating requires checking the product, the test standard, the classification, the laboratory, and the test scope. The following steps should be followed.
Check the Exact Product
The fire rating applies to the specific product tested. A test report for one product (e.g., 4.0 mm thickness) does not automatically apply to a different product (e.g., 6.0 mm thickness). Verify that the test report matches the product being specified.
Check Product Construction
The fire rating depends on the product construction—thickness, backing, wear layer, surface, and core. Verify that the construction of the product matches the construction described in the test report.
Check Test Standard
Verify that the test report references the applicable test standard (EN 13501-1, EN ISO 9239-1, EN 13823, or ASTM E84). Verify that the test standard is the one required by the project's building code.
Check Classification
Verify the classification stated in the test report (e.g., Bfl-s1, Cfl-s1, Class B, Class A). Verify that the classification meets the project requirements.
Check Test Laboratory
Verify that the test laboratory is accredited and recognized. Common accredited laboratories include SGS, Bureau Veritas, and UL.
Check Report Date and Scope
Verify that the test report is recent and that the scope of the report covers the product being specified. An expired report or a report with a limited scope may not be acceptable.
Check End-Use Conditions
Some fire classifications are based on specific end-use conditions (e.g., installed over a specific substrate, with or without adhesive). Verify that the intended installation matches the end-use conditions in the test report. If the test report specifies particular installation conditions, those conditions must be followed.
Verification Process
Request the test report for the specific product.
Check that the product identification matches the product being specified.
Check that the test standard is applicable to the project.
Check that the classification meets the project requirements.
Check that the laboratory is accredited.
Check that the report date is recent and the scope covers the product.
Check that the end-use conditions match the intended installation.
If any item does not match, request an updated report or clarification.
Validity of Test Reports
Fire test reports typically do not expire, but building codes and project specifications may require recent reports. Verify the report date and the applicable requirements. If the product formulation or construction changes, a new test report may be required.
Where Fire-Rated SPC Flooring Is Used
Fire-rated SPC flooring may be specified in a range of applications where fire safety is a design requirement. The following applications commonly require fire-rated flooring:
Hospitals and healthcare facilities
Hotels and hospitality
Offices and commercial buildings
Schools and educational facilities
Retail spaces
Corridors and escape routes
Public buildings
Classification requirements: Classification requirements vary by building type and local code. For example, hospitals and high-rise buildings may require Class A or Afl; offices and retail may require Class B or Bfl-s1. Verify the applicable requirements with the local building authority and the project specification.
Important note: The specific classification requirements depend on the local building code and the project specification. Class B or Bfl-s1 may be required in some applications; other applications may require Class A or Afl. Verify the applicable requirements with the local building authority and the project specification.
Does Installation Affect Fire Classification?
Fire classification is based on the tested product configuration. The installation method, substrate, adhesive, underlayment, and backing can affect the fire performance of the installed system.
If the test report specifies particular end-use conditions—such as a specific substrate, adhesive, or underlayment—the installation must follow those conditions to maintain the classification. For example, if the test report specifies installation over a non-combustible substrate, installing over a combustible substrate may invalidate the classification. If the test report specifies a particular adhesive or underlayment, using a different product may affect the fire performance.
For standard SPC installations over approved substrates, the product's fire classification typically applies. For specific projects, verify the installation requirements against the test report and the building code.
For detailed installation instructions, see the SPC installation and maintenance guide.
SPC Fire Rating vs Other Flooring Types
| Flooring Type | Test Method | Classification System | Smoke | Flaming Droplets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SPC | EN ISO 9239-1 / EN 13823 (EU); ASTM E84 (US) | Bfl-s1 / Cfl-s1 (EU); Class A/B/C (US) | s1/s2/s3 | d0/d1/d2 |
| LVT | EN ISO 9239-1 / EN 13823 (EU); ASTM E84 (US) | Bfl-s1 / Cfl-s1 (EU); Class A/B/C (US) | s1/s2/s3 | d0/d1/d2 |
| Laminate | EN ISO 9239-1 / EN 13823 (EU); ASTM E84 (US) | Bfl-s1 / Cfl-s1 (EU); Class A/B/C (US) | s1/s2/s3 | d0/d1/d2 |
| Ceramic Tile | EN 13501-1 (EU); ASTM E84 (US) | A1/A2 (EU); Class A (US) | — | — |
Important note: The classification of each product depends on the specific product and test report. The table above provides general guidance—verify the specific product's classification before specification. Ceramic tile is typically classified as non-combustible (A1/A2) under EN 13501-1 and Class A under ASTM E84. It does not produce smoke or flaming droplets.
FAQ: SPC Flooring Fire Rating
1. What does Class B mean for SPC flooring?
Class B is a fire classification that describes the reaction-to-fire performance of the product. For flooring in Europe, the classification is expressed as Bfl-s1 (or similar), which indicates the flooring-specific classification, smoke class, and flaming droplet class.
2. What is Bfl-s1 flooring?
Bfl-s1 is a European flooring fire classification. B indicates the main reaction-to-fire class; fl indicates that the classification is for flooring products; s1 indicates the smoke production class (little or no smoke).
3. Is Bfl-s1 the same as ASTM E84 Class B?
No. Bfl-s1 is a European classification under EN 13501-1; ASTM E84 Class B is a US classification based on the ASTM E84 test method. The two systems are different and should not be treated as direct equivalents.
4. What is EN 13501-1?
EN 13501-1 is the European standard for fire classification of construction products. For flooring, the classification is expressed as Afl, Bfl, Cfl, Dfl, Efl, or Ffl, with additional smoke and flaming droplet classes.
5. How is SPC flooring tested for fire performance?
SPC flooring is tested under EN ISO 9239-1 (radiant panel test) and EN 13823 (Single Burning Item test) for European classification, or ASTM E84 for US projects. The test results determine the product's fire classification.
6. What is the difference between Bfl-s1 and Cfl-s1?
Bfl-s1 and Cfl-s1 are different reaction-to-fire classes. Bfl is a higher class than Cfl. The appropriate class depends on the project requirements and the local building code.
7. What fire classification should I specify for a commercial building?
The required fire classification depends on the local building code and the project specification. For many commercial buildings, Class B or Bfl-s1 may be required. For high-risk applications (hospitals, high-rise buildings), Class A or Afl may be required. Verify the applicable requirements with the local building authority.
8. Does flooring thickness affect fire classification?
The fire classification depends on the product formulation and construction, not on thickness alone. Verify the specific product's test report.
9. Does the backing layer affect fire performance?
Yes. The backing layer (foam, cork, felt, or IXPE/EVA) can affect fire performance. Verify that the backing material is compatible with the required fire classification.
10. Can I use an SPC fire test report for another SPC product?
No. A fire test report applies to the specific product tested. A report for one product (e.g., 4.0 mm thickness) does not automatically apply to a different product (e.g., 6.0 mm thickness). Verify that the report matches the product being specified.
11. How do I verify an SPC flooring fire certificate?
Check the exact product, product construction, test standard, classification, test laboratory, report date, report scope, and end-use conditions. Verify that the report matches the product being specified. See the verification process above.
12. Does installation method affect the reported classification?
Fire classification is based on the tested product configuration. If the test report specifies particular end-use conditions (substrate, adhesive, underlayment), the installation must follow those conditions to maintain the classification.
13. What fire rating is required for commercial flooring?
The required fire rating depends on the local building code and the project specification. Class B or Bfl-s1 may be required in some applications; Class A or Afl may be required in others. Verify the applicable requirements with the local building authority.
14. Can Class B SPC be used in residential projects?
Yes, but it may be over-specified for residential use. Residential applications typically require a lower classification. Verify the applicable requirements with the local building code.
15. What documents should an SPC flooring supplier provide?
The supplier should provide the product test report for the fire classification (EN 13501-1 or ASTM E84), the product datasheet, and any other relevant certificates for the target market. Verify the documents against the product being specified.
Fire Test Reports and Product Documentation
For fire-rated SPC flooring projects, the following documents should be requested from the manufacturer:
Fire test report (EN 13501-1 or ASTM E84) for the specific product
Product datasheet with construction details
Batch test reports for the specific shipment
Certificates of compliance for the target market
Installation guidelines with end-use conditions
Without these documents, the product's fire performance cannot be confirmed. Contact us for the technical datasheet and fire test reports for our SPC products.
CTA
For fire test reports, technical datasheets, product documentation, or project-based quotations related to fire-rated SPC flooring, procurement and engineering teams are encouraged to submit detailed project requirements for evaluation.
