Aluminium Tongue-and-Groove Lining; The Specifier's Answer to Group 1 Fire Certification

Written by

23 April 2024

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4 min read

Specifiers seeking Group 1 Fire Safety Certification no longer have to compromise on the aesthetic finish of their interiors with the launch of Screenwood’s latest development, MODULO Group 1 Aluminium interior tongue-and-groove lining.

Known for its innovative architectural and acoustic decorative lining solutions, Screenwood unveiled its latest innovation, MODULO* Group 1 Aluminium interior tongue-and-groove lining, a cost-effective and fire-rated linear lining solution––pre-finished in NAVURBAN* decorative surface film for realistic woodgrain interiors, NAVURBAN Silken, NAVURBAN Elements or custom powder coating.

MODULO Group 1 Aluminium interior tongue-and-groove represents a shift in interior lining solutions. It seamlessly blends the warmth and sophistication of natural wood with the peace of mind that comes from top-tier fire safety standards. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and engineered for versatility, this revolutionary product empowers designers to sculpt dynamic interiors that transcend conventional boundaries.

Cameron Nelson, Founder, Director and Product Engineer at Screenwood.

Inspiring innovation

A commitment to form and function lies at the heart of the inventor's inspiration. Cameron Nelson, Screenwood's Founder, Director, and Product Engineer, articulates this ethos: "We specifically designed MODULO Group 1 Aluminium to provide top performance in the highest fire-rated environments without compromising aesthetics." This dedication is evident in every aspect of the product's design and manufacturing process.

Nelson reflects on the inspiration for its new product, "Our existing MODULO panel model has been extremely successful, but with an MDF substrate, we could only achieve a fire rating of Group 3.”

“Given the demand in the commercial, hospitality, aged care, and medical sectors for Group 1 and Group 2 products, we saw the industry need to develop one. So, we introduced the Aluminium substrate, allowing us to maintain identical profiles while achieving the required Group 1 Fire rating," says Nelson.

Boundless finish selection

One of the most striking features of MODULO Group 1 Aluminium is its extensive range of finishes. With over 30 premium NAVURBAN decorative surfaces to choose from, interior architects and designers have unparalleled freedom to realise their creative visions. From the rich textures of NAVURBAN Elements, or the smoothness of the NAVURBAN Silken range to the timeless elegance of woodgrain patterns, every finish is meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of luxury and sophistication.

Nelson explains the technical features of the new product, "Our aluminium profiles offer dynamic designs with arcs, flutes, and batons, providing flexibility for architects and interior designers.”

“Unlike other products on the market offering flat-profile Group 1 aluminium linings, ours maintain sculpted and dynamic interiors, with identical finishes to our MDF offerings, while meeting the highest fire safety standards. Along with our unique film, it allows seamless integration with other products in our range, ensuring consistent finishes," Nelson adds.

Sustainable solution

MODULO Group 1 Aluminium is not just a triumph of style—it's also a triumph of sustainability. Pending Global GreenTag certification and designed with recyclability in mind, this product embodies Screenwood's commitment to creating a positive environmental impact. The product’s low VOC composition and the use of recyclable materials ensure MODULO Group 1 Aluminium reflects a dedication to responsible manufacturing practices.

"We're pursuing the highest level of Global Green Tag certification, emphasising our commitment to environmental sustainability,” says Nelson.

“Our new product will feature low-carbon aluminium, contributing to eco-friendly construction. By sourcing certified low-carbon aluminium billets, we ensure our local manufacturing process aligns with broader sustainability goals."

Simple and affordable installation

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of MODULO Group 1 Aluminium is its ease of installation. Crafted from lightweight aluminium and designed for swift, cost-effective installation, this product streamlines the construction process without compromising on quality or durability. Whether it's vertical, horizontal, or sculptural applications, MODULO Group 1 Aluminium offers unparalleled versatility and ease of use.

Nelson remarks on the simplicity and affordability of the installation system, "The product utilises a simple tongue-and-groove installation system, a standard and cost-effective method. Unlike other products on the market, we avoid proprietary systems, allowing the use of off-the-shelf materials. This ensures affordability and accessibility for designers and builders without locking them into costly accessories."

MODULO Group 1 Aluminium follows the recent innovation by Screenwood of the first acoustic covering, Silent ovation: introducing the world’s first acoustic wallpaper.

As interior designers and architects desire to push the boundaries of interior design, MODULO Group 1 Aluminium, with its unrivalled blend of style, safety and sustainability, is set to transform interior spaces across the globe. So, the next time you step into a luxurious hotel lobby or a cutting-edge corporate office, take a moment to appreciate the ingenuity behind the scenes—chances are, MODULO Group 1 Aluminium played a pivotal role in bringing that vision to life.

Learn more about Screenwood’s new MODULO Group 1 Aluminium tongue-and-groove lining system, or explore the extensive range of NAVURBAN finishes on ArchiPro.

*NAVURBAN™ is a trademark of New Age Veneers, and MODULO® Group 1 Aluminium is a registered trademark of Screenwood.

At ArchiPro we recognise and acknowledge the existing, original and ancient connection Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have to the lands and waterways across the Australian continent. We pay our respects to the elders past and present. We commit to working together to build a prosperous and inclusive Australia.