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Timber remains one of the most popular solutions in interior architecture for its natural warmth, texture, and versatility. From timber wall panels and fluted wall panels timber offers an elegant aesthetic that complements a wide range of design styles.
However, as safety and compliance standards evolve, understanding the role of fire ratings in timber products is increasingly important for architects, designers, and builders.
Modulo® MR finished in Navurban™ Black Mountain
Fire Safety in Modern Interior Design
High-profile incidents such as the Neo200 apartment fire in Melbourne have prompted closer scrutiny of materials used throughout Australian buildings
While much attention has been placed on aluminium wall cladding, the performance of interior finishes such as timber wall panels also plays an important role in maintaining fire safety.
The Building Code of Australia (BCA), part of the National Construction Code (NCC), outlines strict requirements for the fire performance of building materials. Several Australian Standards guide the design, installation, testing, and maintenance of fire safety systems.
Modulo® finished in Navurban™ Tablelands
Modulo® MR finished in Navurban™ Tablelands
Understanding Group Number Classifications
Under the NCC, materials are assigned a Group Number based on their fire behaviour:
- Group 1: Minimal contribution to fire growth
- Group 2: Limited contribution
- Group 3: Moderate contribution
- Group 4: High contribution (unsuitable for most interiors)
These classifications are determined through rigorous testing under AS 5637.1, helping specifiers understand how interior finishes such as timber panels and acoustic wall panels perform under fire conditions.
For most commercial and public buildings, achieving a Group 1 or Group 2 rating is required for compliance.
Timber and Fire Performance: What Designers Need To Know
While timber is inherently combustible, advancements in engineering mean it can now meet strict fire performance criteria. Through fire-retardant coatings, engineered substrates, and controlled manufacturing, timber panels and acoustic wood panels can offer compliant Group ratings without compromising on design or acoustic quality.
Screenwood Panels are suitable for many acoustic timber ceilings, acoustic walls and curved timber all while maintaining acoustic integrity, a vital consideration in spaces such as offices, aged care, hospitals, education facilities, and public buildings.
Manufactured in Australia, these systems are designed as for a variety of applications from decorative ceiling timber panels to highly functional acoustic and fire-rated ceilings. The result provides a versatile solution that supports compliance while maintaining the visual and acoustic benefits of natural timber.
Manufactured in Australia, these systems are designed as for a variety of applications from decorative ceiling timber panels to highly functional acoustic and fire-rated ceilings. The result provides a versatile solution that supports compliance while maintaining the visual and acoustic benefits of natural timber.
Screenwood Product Table
In addition to fire safety, these profile wrapped fire-rated systems can also support acoustic and environmental performance objectives.
Product Table Summary
| Product | Fire Rating & Description | NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient Range) | Key Features & Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Soundlina® | Group 1 – Perforated architectural wall covering. | Up to 0.85 | High durability NAVURBAN Diamond™ finish, sustainable, premium acoustic wall covering for interiors with high acoustic comfort. |
| Panels MR | Group 3 – Moisture-resistant MDF linear batten system. | Up to 1.0 | High NRC with acoustic textiles, multiple profiles, easy install, suitable for noise-sensitive interiors. |
| Panels FR | Group 2 – Fire-resistant MDF linear batten system | Up to 1.0 | High NRC with acoustic textiles, multiple profiles, easy install, suitable for noise-sensitive interiors. |
| Panels Solid Timber | Group 3 – Solid timber acoustic battens in native species | Up to 1.0 | PEFC™ certified timber, clear/tinted lacquer finishes, supports biophilic design, excellent acoustic performance with fabric acoustic backing. |
| Modulo® Acoustic | Group 1 – Perforated aluminium tongue & groove lining | Up to 0.75 | Lightweight aluminium with premium NAVURBAN™ finishes, sculptural profiles (Dome, Louvre, Mesa), fast installation, suited to high fire-rated interiors. |
Contemporary transformation at Club Ashfield featuring Modulo® and Stix®
Screenwood’s systems are part of a growing category of Australian made panel products that combine aesthetics, acoustics and performance:
- Fire tested (Products range from Group 1-3)
- Global Green Tag™ certified
- PEFC™
- Acoustic performance (Our acoustic products achieve various NRC ratings ranging from 0.75 – 1.0 when installed as recommended).
- Low VOC
Our profile wrapped NAVURBAN™ products offer additional advantages including:
- Abraision resistance
- Low maintenance
- UV Resistance
Fire ratings are a critical factor in material selection for interior projects. They define how materials perform under fire conditions and ensure compliance with the Building Code of Australia.
For those specifying timber wall panels, confirming that products have been tested and certified is essential, and considering in what environment they will be featured will help you make your selection. There are timber and timber-look profile wrapped options ranging from Group 1 to Group 3 fire rated.
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