New EU cladding test from January 2026
Fire test method for plasterboard etc. replaces visual identification of charring by temperature measurement. The current method for testing fire protection capacity of plaster or wood panels for EU Construction Products Regulation labelling is based on visual assessment of charring of a flammable material behind the panel. This leads to ambiguous results and requires retesting for different substrates behind the board. After seven years of development, the new test method specifies that temperature behind must not exceed 275°C after 10 or 30 minutes (K1 10 or K2 30). The test can use expanded polystyrene (worst case), low density insulation or particleboard backing, and a pass for EPS is considered valid for all other materials. This aims to facilitate use of bio-based materials and to reduce re-testing requirements for manufacturers. Other changes include more flexibility in fastening systems. The new test enters into application on 30th January 2026.
“New cladding standard eliminates misleading fire tests”, DBI 19 August 2025 https://brandogsikring.dk/en/news/2025/new-cladding-standard-eliminates-misleading-fire-tests/
