Frequently asked questions about Bushfire Roller Shutters:
What is the cheapest way to achieve BAL-FZ compliant windows?
Install a CSIRO tested combination of a standard sliding 5mm toughened glass window and a Bushfireshutter.com.au BAL FZ stainless steel shutter.
Do I need double glazed windows with BAL-FZ roller shutters?
No, Bushfireshutter.com.au is BAL-FZ tested and compliant with an openable single-glazed 5mm thick toughened glass window and achieved a max radiant heat flux reading of 2.9Kw/m2
Has a roller shutter been tested and approved with a 5mm toughened glass window?
Yes Bushfireshutter.com.au BAL-FZ shutter passed CSIRO test AS 1530.8.2 (2018) on 29/10/2019. A standard sliding single-glazed 5mm thick toughened glass window was used for the test.
Can I achieve BAL FZ compliance for windows and doors by having a BAL-40 bushfire window accompanied by a non-combustible bushfire shutter?
The NSW RFS has ceased to allow the use of BAL-40 windows with non-combustible bushfire shutters in the Flame Zone noting the grace period ceased on 1 January 2018 See below: Community Resilience Fact Sheet
Can a 1 Hour (FRL -/60/-) or 2 hour (FRL -/120/-) fire rated steel shutter comply with BAL FZ requirements?
1 Hour (FRL -/60/-) or 2 hour (FRL -/120/-) fire rated steel shutters are designed and tested to AS 1530.4 (2005) to stop fire from escaping sections inside a building. BAL FZ Bushfire Shutters are designed and tested to AS 1530.8.2 (2018) to stop bushfire flames and heat from breaking the glass windows and burning down the house from the outside. The difference between these types of shutters, BAL FZ shutters must be insulated. Single skin steel fire rated shutters are not insulated against the transfer of heat and do not comply with AS 1530.8.2 (2018).
Can a fabric fire curtain comply with BAL-FZ requirements?
No, a fabric curtain is not insulated against the transfer of heat and does not comply with AS 1530.8.2 (2018). Watch ABC video of house fire test with a fabric shutter failing to stop the front window from breaking, watch video to hear how the window glass broke at 7:10 minutes and the inside temperature was untenable at 200c. ABC House Fire Test
Can an Aluminium roller shutter comply with BAL FZ requirements?
No, aluminium will melt at 660C well below the Australian Standard test for BAL FZ AS 1530.8.2 (2018) test temperature of 841C.
What are BAL FZ shutters made of?
All AS 1530.8.2 (2018) BAL FZ compliant shutters are made of insulated double skin stainless steel. Bushfireshutter.com.au uses 304 grade stainless steel for high corrosion resistance and durability.
Are Rollashield BAL FZ shutters tested to the latest standard?
Yes. Rollashield BAL FZ shutters passed the test AS1530.4-2018 at CSIRO in Sydney with a single panel of 5mm toughened glass in an openable window.
CSIRO is a NATA accredited facility. Therefore our shutters meet all criteria and will satisfy every certifier.
Can BAL FZ shutters be used as everyday shutters?
Yes. BAL FZ shutters are fantastic insulators in heat and cold. They can also be used to regulate glare, light and offer storm protection for your windows and doors. BAL FZ shutters are also full security shutters when in the down position.
Do BAL FZ shutters automatically deploy in a fire?
No they do not. BAL FZ shutters are individually operated with an internal switch. They also have a manual override option to wind the shutter down in case of power outage. If the shutter is not accessible from outside, a UPS back up battery can be installed so the shutter is operable in case of power outage.
How much space do I need above my windows to fit a shutter?
Up to 300mm is required above the glazed window or door to accommodate the housing of the shutter. The overall height of the shutter determines the size of the pelmets which range from 230mm – 300mm.
Can I powder coat BAL FZ shutters?
No. The moving curtain is stainless steel and can not be powder coated. The pelmets and side guides can be any colour bond colour. When the shutter is up the colour bond colour is all that is visible.
Are BAl FZ shutters salt resistant?
Rollashield BAL FZ shutters are high grade 304 stainless steel which is salt resisitant. Rollashield do offer a high grade BAL FZ salt resistant shutter which will increase the life of your shutters if exposed to salt.
Can BAL FZ shutters be used as BAL FZ garage doors?
Rollashield do manufacture BAL FZ garage doors. We can assist the builder to ensure your garage remains BAL FZ compliant with our BAL FZ garage doors.
Can BAL FZ shutters be manual operated shutters?
Rollashield offer a spring assisted manual shutter, however it is only suitable for small shutters on ground floor
What is the minimum window width suitable for BAL FZ shutters?
The minimum width is 550mm.
What is the maximum span of one shutter?
The maximum span is 5650mm.
When is the best time to engage Rollashield BAL FZ shutters for our new build?
It is best to send plans prior to ordering windows. Rollashield is always happy to advise of any apparent issues prior to starting the build which may save you money and ensure certification of you windows and shutters.