When it comes to building safety, fire-rated glass stands out as one of the most critical investments a property owner or architect can make. At Bear Glass, we deliver premium fire-rated glass solutions across New York and the United States — combining superior safety performance with the elegance of modern design. Whether you’re constructing a new commercial space or upgrading a residential property, our fire-rated glass products offer the protection, clarity, and compliance you need.
What Is Fire Rated Glass?
Fire-rated glass is a specialized type of safety glass engineered to resist the spread of fire and smoke for a defined period of time. Unlike ordinary glass that shatters or melts under intense heat, fire-rated glass is manufactured using advanced materials and precision processes that dramatically enhance its thermal resistance and structural integrity when exposed to high temperatures.
This makes it an ideal choice for buildings where fire safety is a top priority — including commercial offices, hospitals, schools, hotels, and multi-family residential buildings. By slowing the progression of fire, it buys critical time for occupants to evacuate and for emergency responders to intervene — all while preserving natural light and open sightlines that define contemporary architecture.
“Fire-rated glass is ideal for cases where one needs open space and natural light in abundance, along with the proper fire rating of the establishment.”
— Bear Glass
Bear Glass Fire-Rated Glass Products
Bear Glass carries the best in quality fire-rated glass, with products available in a variety of fire ratings designed to meet most glazing classifications and applications. Our fire-rated glass product line is built around the trusted PYRAN® Platinum family — a superior glass-ceramic solution available in three configurations.
1. 3/16″ PYRAN® PLATINUM — Fire Rating: 20–90 Minutes
PYRAN® Platinum is Bear Glass’s entry-level fire-protection rated glazing material, crafted from transparent glass-ceramic at a thickness of 3/16″ (5mm). It is designed for non-impact, non-safety rated locations such as transoms and windows where true-color rendition and fire resistance of up to 90 minutes are required.
Safety Features
- Fire-rated for up to 90 minutes with required hose-stream test
- Passes positive pressure test standard UL 10C
- Withstands thermal shock for sustained performance under extreme heat
Where Can It Be Used?
- Can be used to construct insulated glazing units
- Can be lightly sandblasted or delivered with surface-applied opacity film, without affecting fire rating
- Approved for use with any standard fire-rated frame carrying the same rating
2. 3/16″ PYRAN® PLATINUM F — Fire Rating: 20–180 Minutes
PYRAN® Platinum F is a step up — a fire-protection rated and impact safety-rated glazing material made from transparent glass-ceramic at 3/16″ (5mm) thickness. It features a surface-applied safety film, making it ideal for use in safety-rated locations including door lites, transoms, sidelites, and windows with fire ratings up to 90 minutes in windows and an impressive up to 180 minutes in doors.
Safety Features
- Surface-applied safety film; impact safety-rated: meets ANSI Z97.1 and CPSC 16CFR1201 (Cat. I and/or II)
- Fire-rated for up to 90 minutes with required hose-stream test
- Fire-rated for up to 180 minutes in doors with required hose-stream test
- Withstands thermal shock
- Passes positive pressure test standard UL 10C
Where Can It Be Used?
- Can be used to construct insulated glazing units
- Can be lightly sandblasted or delivered with surface-applied opacity film, without affecting fire rating
- Approved for use with any standard fire-rated frame carrying the same rating
3. 5/16″ PYRAN® PLATINUM L — Fire Rating: 20–180 Minutes
PYRAN® Platinum L is the most robust option in the lineup — a fire-protection rated and impact safety-rated glazing material with a thicker profile of approximately 5/16″. It is made from a laminated glass-ceramic, offering a transparent appearance with exceptional durability. Like the Platinum F, it supports fire ratings up to 90 minutes in windows and up to 180 minutes in doors.
Safety Features
- Laminated floated glass-ceramic; impact safety-rated: meets ANSI Z97.1 and CPSC 16CFR1201 (Cat. I and/or II)
- Fire-rated for up to 90 minutes with required hose-stream test
- Fire-rated for up to 180 minutes in doors with required hose-stream test
- Withstands thermal shock
- Passes positive pressure test standard UL 10C
Where Can It Be Used?
- Can be used to construct insulated glazing units
- Can be lightly sandblasted or modified with surface-applied decorative or opacity films without affecting fire rating or UL listing
Fire-Rated Glass Specifications at a Glance
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Glass Types | PYRAN® PLATINUM, PYRAN® PLATINUM F, PYRAN® PLATINUM L |
| Fire Rating | 20–90 Min. / 20–180 Min. |
| Glass Thickness | 3/16″, 5/16″ |
| Customization | Can be lightly sandblasted or fitted with surface-applied films |
| Impact Safety Rating | Meets ANSI Z97.1 and CPSC 16CFR1201 (Cat. I and/or II) |
| Applications | Internal and external use — doors, windows, partitions, facades |
Benefits of Fire-Protective Glazing
Fire-protective glazing goes far beyond simply slowing down flames. Here’s a closer look at why architects, builders, and property owners across the country trust Bear Glass for their fire-rated glass glazing needs:
- Fire Resistance: Withstands high temperatures and prevents the spread of flames and hot gases, containing a fire event within defined zones.
- Smoke Containment: Limits the passage of smoke, significantly reducing visibility hazards and toxic gas exposure during an emergency.
- Thermal Insulation: Minimizes heat transfer, protecting adjacent areas from dangerous radiant heat buildup.
- Impact Resistance: Many fire-protective glazing solutions also offer robust impact resistance, enhancing overall safety against both fire and physical hazards.
- Natural Light Preservation: Unlike solid fire walls, fire-rated glass maintains visibility and allows natural daylight — making buildings safer without compromising aesthetics.
- Code Compliance: Helps properties meet local, state, and national building codes and fire safety regulations with certified, tested products.
Where Is Fire-Rated Glass Used?
Bear Glass fire-rated glass can be integrated into a wide range of architectural applications, both in new construction and renovation projects. Here are some of the most common use cases:
- Doors and Windows: Installed in fire-rated doors and windows to maintain compartmentalization and prevent fire from spreading between zones.
- Partitions and Walls: Used in interior partitions and walls to create fire-resistant barriers without blocking light or sightlines.
- Facades and Atriums: Incorporated into building facades and open atriums for a combination of modern aesthetics and essential safety performance.
- Stairwells and Corridors: Essential in escape routes and emergency corridors to ensure clear, safe evacuation paths during a fire event.
- Hospitals and Schools: Critical in high-occupancy buildings where compliance and occupant safety are non-negotiable priorities.
How to Choose the Right Fire-Rated Glass
Selecting the right fire-rated glass involves more than just picking a product off the shelf. Here’s what you should always verify before making your decision:
- Match the fire rating to the application. A door may require up to 180 minutes of protection, while a transom window may only need 20–90 minutes.
- Check for impact safety ratings. In high-traffic or safety-rated locations, choose products that also meet ANSI Z97.1 and CPSC 16CFR1201 standards.
- Verify certifications. Always look for glazing products certified by recognized testing standards, such as UL 10C for positive pressure performance.
- Consult with experts. Not all glazing products are equal — Bear Glass experts can help you determine the right product for your specific building classification, code requirements, and design goals.
- Plan for maintenance. Fire-rated glass is durable, but regular inspection and upkeep are essential to ensure long-term performance. Check for cracks, film integrity, and frame compatibility periodically.
What is the difference between fire-rated glass and regular glass?
Regular glass shatters or melts when exposed to heat, compromising the safety of a building. Fire-rated glass is specifically engineered to maintain its integrity for a defined duration — whether 20, 60, 90, or 180 minutes — under direct fire exposure.
Can fire-rated glass be customized?
Yes. Bear Glass’s fire-rated products can be lightly sandblasted or fitted with surface-applied opacity or decorative films without affecting their fire rating or UL listing. Custom sizes and shapes are also available to suit project-specific requirements.
Why Choose Bear Glass for Fire-Rated Glass?
Bear Glass has been a trusted name in the glass industry, serving customers across New York and the broader United States. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Extensive Product Range: From PYRAN® Platinum to Platinum F and Platinum L, we carry fire-rated glass suited for virtually every application.
- Expert Guidance: Our team of specialists will help you navigate fire ratings, building codes, and product certifications to find the best fit for your project.
- Internal and External Applications: Our products perform in both exterior and interior glazing scenarios, giving architects and builders maximum design flexibility.
- Certified and Compliant Products: All our fire-rated glass products meet rigorous national testing standards and carry recognized certifications.
- Two Convenient Locations: Serving customers from our Queens Village, NY and Tinton Falls, NJ facilities.
Request a Free Quote Today
Ready to enhance the fire safety of your building without sacrificing design? Bear Glass is here to help. Contact our team today to discuss your fire-rated glass requirements and receive a no-obligation quote tailored to your project.
📍 Queens Village, NY: 217-44 98th Ave, Queens Village, NY 11429 | +1 (718) 832-3604
📍 Tinton Falls, NJ: 359 Essex Road, Tinton Falls, NJ 07753 | +1 (732) 901-2626
📧 Email: sales@bearglass.com
Bear Glass Inc. — Delivering premium fire-rated glass solutions across the United States. Visit us at bearglass.com | Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter).
