CEN/TS 1187:2012

Test methods for external fire exposure to roofs

Scope: This technical specification specifies 4 methods of testing roofs for exposure to external fire. The four methods evaluate the performance characteristics of roofs under the following conditions:

a) test 1 - with a burning torch - the method for which LII Fplus has been accredited;

b) test 2 - with burning torch and wind;

c) test 3 - with burning torch, wind and additional radiant heat; 

d) test 4 - with two stages involving a burning torch, wind and additional radiant heat; 

The tests assess the spread of fire along the outer surface of the roof, inside the roof (tests 1, 2 and 3), penetration of fire (tests 1, 3 and 4) and the formation of flaming droplets or debris falling from the lower surface of the roof, or on the side exposed to fire (tests 1, 3 and 4).

Tests 2 and 3 are not applicable to roofs with irregular geometry or to roofs with fitted accessories such as ventilators  and lighting fixtures.

NOTE The four tests listed above do not assume any sequence. Each test is for its own sake, without the possibility of being replaced by another.

Test specimens for Method 1:

Four specimens of minimum dimensions of 0.8 m width x 1.8 m length shall be prepared under appropriate laboratory supervision for each roof pitch to be tested.

The roof joints are tested in their original size, and with the waterproofing system attached as in practice.

The specimens must be representative, with all the features of the practical application (except for the standard supporting base), both in terms of support and in terms of the type and number of layers of materials included in the roof structure (including any insulation, vapor membranes, etc. ), as well as regarding the connection of these layers.  

Criteria for assessment:

For each specimen tested information on

a) roof slope;

b) the room temperature at the start of the test, in °C;

c) observations of his behavior during and after the test, including:

  • spread of external fire;
  • whether the fire has spread laterally to the edges of the measurement area;
  • any falling flaming materials from the roof surface;
  • the burnt length up and down;увредена зона;
  • the maximum fire spread radius on horizontal roofs;проникване на огъня;
  • damage: flameless propagation (smoldering or glowing combustion) in each layer; penetration rate; the maximum length of the burned material

NOTE All measurements taken may not be necessary for classification purposes, but may be useful in extending the field of application, either direct or extended.