Rockfon stone wool tiles differ from standard mineral fibre tiles in terms of fire and moisture performance. Since stone wool is made from volcanic rock, it is non-combustible and has water-repellent properties. This means that Rockfon tiles have a high fire reaction classification. In addition, Rockfon tiles do not sag, warp, or develop mould due to moisture like regular tiles. The Rockfon Artic range RCT stocks provide these advantages in an economically priced tile. This guide will explain where fire and moisture performance is most important and why.
Why the material matters
Standard mineral fibre tiles are wet-felted and are somewhat absorbent. In damp or humid conditions, they can absorb moisture which will lead to sagging, distortion, discolouration, and mould growth. In addition, their fire safety performance is poor, sitting below stone wool in terms of fire safety performance. Stone wool improves both of these behaviours because of what it is made from.
Fire performance
Stone wool is non-combustibleRockfon tiles are rated good for fire reaction classification, do not burn and do not spread flames, and create very little smoke which can be critical before people evacuate a space. This makes stone wool an excellent solution for fire safety. Please note that regardless of the stone wool, the level of ceiling protection depends on the grid and soffit above, so check what the build-up is and refer to the product datasheet.
Moisture and mould resistance
Stone wool is naturally water-repellent and non-hygroscopicCompared to standard mineral fibre tiles, Rockfon tiles are more dimensionally stable in humid situations as they do not absorb moisture. The stone wool used in Rockfon tiles also does not rely on antimicrobials that wear off to resist mold and mildew. Rockfon’s stone wool does not provide a feeding source for microorganisms as wool does.
Where these advantages count
Specifications indicating Rockfon Arctic are:
A note on extreme environments
In areas of continuous high humidity, like swimming pool halls, specialist humid-area tiles and corrosion-resistant grids are generally required. If you have such a project, please contact the RCT team to get the right specifications, as standard Arctic tiles and grids are not suitable for extreme conditions. For most typical commercial environments where the humidity is normal or slightly high, the performance of stone wool in Artic is fully adequate.
Don’t forget the grid
Tiles are merely one part of a larger system. For any area with raised moisture, make sure that the grid is suitable for the conditions — a standard grid is appropriate for typical commercial conditions, but repeated exposure to moisture may necessitate a grid that is corrosion resistant. For a modular look, order the tiles and the grid at the same time and ensure that both are suited to the conditions before placing the order.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the reasons for the failure of standard ceiling tiles in humid environments?
Standard mineral fibre tiles are hygroscopic, meaning that they will absorb moisture in humid conditions. This leads to sagging, warping, and discolouration, and provides a breeding environment for mould. Conversely, Rockfon Artic stone wool tiles will not absorb humidity and will not experience any of these issues.
Are Rockfon tiles fire resistant?
Because stone wool is not combustible, Rockfon tiles have a high fire reaction classification and create low smoke during combustion. The level of smoke protection depends on the grid and the underside of the ceiling, so be sure to verify the protection requirements.
Is Rockfon Artic suitable for a swimming pool?
In pool halls, the most demanding and perennially wet environments, it is usual to recommend corrosion-resistant and humidity-specific tiles and grids. For these conditions, consult the RCT team to find the most suitable specification. Artic is appropriate for humid commercial environments and below average humidity conditions.
Does the grid matter in humid areas?
Correct, a standard grid would suffice in normal commercial conditions, but areas that are persistently damp may need a grid that is resistant to corrosion. Please combine the order of the tiles and the grid, and make sure both are appropriate for the conditions.
Check for Rockfon Artic stone wool tiles on our Rockfon category page, with matching grid available.
If there are any performance issues with regard to fire or moisture, please indicate a ceiling. 01939 251 450 for the right tile-and-grid combination, or request a bulk quote.
WhatsApp Scan to start a chat with us!