““Fireproof windows and fire-resistant windows” – one is the official name and the other is a common term; don’t get them mixed up! !

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The last edit to this post was made by HaiChuanLaoYu on 2026-5-1 at 19:47. Regarding fireproof windows and heat-resistant windows, many people may have certain misconceptions, or think that the two are the same thing； In fact, fire-resistant windows and flame-retardant windows differ in terms of definition, performance standards, materials, fire resistance rating, and installation requirements. Firstly, regarding fire-resistant windows, they were first mentioned in the GB16809-1997 standard titled \"Steel Fire-Resistant Windows\". As can be inferred from the name of this standard, at that time the material used for such windows was limited to steel; they were of the insulating type, and their fire resistance ratings were classified into three levels: A, B, and C. With the upgrading of materials, GB16809-2008 \"Fireproof Windows\" expands the materials used for such windows to include steel, wood, and a combination of steel and wood (excluding aluminum alloy and thermal break aluminum). Based on their fire resistance capabilities, these windows are classified into Category A (insulated), Category B (partially insulated), and Category C (non-insulated). Category A fireproof windows are further divided into Grades A1, A2, and A3. Additionally, it is required that automatic window closers be installed. The current latest standard in use is GB16809-2024 \"Fireproof Windows\". Initially, there was no definition for fire-resistant windows; the term “fire-resistant window” originated from informal designations used by various window and door manufacturers and design firms. Since aluminum alloy windows do not fall under the regulations regarding fire-resistant windows, the official standard GB/T8478-2020 \"Aluminum Alloy Windows and Doors\" was issued in 2020. This standard specifies that the material used for fire-resistant windows should be aluminum (either regular aluminum or aluminum with thermal break technology). It is required that fire-resistant windows maintain fire integrity for ≥30 minutes when closed; no insulation performance is required, and the installation of automatic shutters is not mandatory (except as required for special projects). Below, I’ve attached a table to help everyone distinguish the key differences between the two. As for how to choose between fire-resistant windows and heat-resistant windows, it can be summarized in one sentence: if thermal insulation is the main requirement, then choose a fire-resistant window with Class A glass ； Daily exterior windows should be energy-efficient → choose fire-resistant windows with Class C glass.