Carpentier - Smart wood for nice places

Open joint cladding that meets Class B reaction to fire standards

27/05/2025

For the first time, open joint vertical wood cladding is available with Class B reaction to fire certification - a revolutionary step forward that the wood construction sector has been long awaiting.

Since the change to the rules on timber cladding reaction to fire standards last summer, we have offered fire-resistance certificates for our traditionally-fitted, fire-retardant closed joint cladding.

What’s new is that there are now certified solutions for open joint cladding with a maximum gap of 8 mm. This stylish and fire-retardant solution has been made possible by cleverly combining a polymer-based fire-retardant treatment, a smart design and careful installation. So, at last, you can use vertical open joint cladding that meets the strict Class B requirements.

Please note: the certification does not yet apply to timber with a colour finish. We are actively working on this.

Technical requirements for Class B reaction to fire standards

  • Wood varieties: thermo ash, thermo clear pine, thermo pine
  • Boards with a minimal thickness of 19.5 mm and a width of ≥ 72 mm
  • Vertical mounting with a gap of ≤ 8 mm 
  • Fire-retardant impregnation battens, 20 mm thick, positioned horizontally
  • Possible with or without air spaces
  • Substrate: all Euroclass A1 and A2-s1,d0 substrates with a thickness of ≥ 12 mm and a density of ≥ 525 kg/m³
  • Traditional installation on a timber supporting structure

With this solution, it is easier than ever to opt to build using sustainable, natural and fire-retardant wood, without having to compromise on design choices.

Plus Line and bespoke profiles

Our range includes two Plus Line profile boards that can be used as an open joint, fire-retardant façade covering. We also offer bespoke solutions so that your project meets Class B reaction to fire requirements fully, both from a technical and a style viewpoint.


ARE YOU THINKING OF USING OPEN JOINT CLADDING FOR YOUR PROJECT?

Please feel free to contact us for technical advice or a quote.