
How Fire Ratings Work: Choosing the Right Fireproof Safe for Your Valuables
When it comes to protecting your valuables, a fireproof safe is one of the best investments you can make. However, there are several things to consider such as cost, weight & necessity. Understanding how fire ratings work and the things you need to consider can help you choose the right safe for your needs, ensuring your most precious items stay protected in worst case scenarios.
What Does “Fire Rating” Mean?
Fire ratings measure how long a safe can withstand extreme heat while keeping its internal temperature below a critical threshold. Most safes are tested at temperatures between 1,200°F to 1,800°F, simulating the temperature and conditions of a house fire. The rating time (ie. 30 minutes, 1 hour, or 2 hours) tells you how long the safe will stand before the temperature inside reaches burning levels.

What is a Fire Liner?
A fire liner is a layer of material added to the interior of a safe to provide protection against heat and flames. A layer of fire-resistant materials like concrete, gypsum, or a blend of other non-combustible substances are poured in 1” slabs and it is covered in steel to create the fire liner. The fire liner is carefully applied to the inside walls, door, and the floor of the safe to create a heat-resistant barrier. The process of applying a fire liner is done during the manufacturing of the safe, ensuring proper installation.
Choosing the Right Fire Proof Safe
At The Safe Gal, we offer three fire protection options to meet your needs:
🔥 45-Minute Default Protection - Our minimum fire rating starts at 45-minutes due to our ¼” steel. Our ¼” steel offers enough protection to protect your valuables for a short amount of time, but may not be long enough for those that live rurally or in wild-fire prone areas.
🔥 Added 1-Hour Fire Liner - Designed to withstand high heat for up to an extra 60 minutes. Ideal for protecting important documents, cash, and small valuables from events such as a house fire.
🔥 Added 2-Hour Fire Liner - Provides extended protection for up to an extra 120 minutes. Best for individuals who are looking for extra protection for high-value collections, heirlooms, or business documents.
Is a Fire Liner Right For You?
Adding a fire liner is an excellent choice for those who:
- Own high-value possessions that need extra security and protection
- Want peace of mind that valuables will be protected in worst-case-scenarios.
- Live in rural or high-risk wildfire areas
- Business owners that have fire-risk operations (ie. restaurants, manufacturing, trucking)

Things to Consider
Though it keeps your valuables protected, adding a fire liner does come with some considerations.
- Weight - Adding a fire liner to your safe can significantly increase its weight due to the fire-resistant materials adding bulk to the safe's overall structure. This added weight can make it challenging to move from a different location in your house, or in the event that the location of the safe is changed. It will require specialized equipment or professionals to move and install.
- Location - Given the added weight of the safe, it is dangerous to install your safe in high areas, as the flooring may not be able to handle the safe’s mass. Fire lined safes do best on the bottom floor over concrete or reinforced flooring.
- Cost - While a fire liner is an important feature for added protection, it comes with an increased cost. The materials used for fireproofing and the additional labor involved in incorporating them into your safe’s design can drive up the overall price. Consider added expenses to ensure it fits within your budget. The cost varies based on the size of safe you are looking for - feel free to contact us for a quote for your desired fire lining option.
- Freight - Due to the increased weight and size of a safe with a fire liner, shipping and freight costs will also rise. Heavier and bulkier items incur higher shipping fees, and the need for specialized transportation might be required. It’s essential to consider these additional freight charges when budgeting for a fireproof safe
- Door Weight - Fire lining surrounds every aspect of your safe, including the door. You may want to consider if the added weight on the door will hinder your ability to access your safe, as usually it requires both hands to open and may not be suitable for older individuals or those living with disabilities.
Final Thoughts
When choosing a fireproof safe, consider what you need to protect, how long you need protection, and where the safe will be placed in your home. A higher fire rating gives you more peace of mind, ensuring your valuables are secure no matter what.
Ready to find the perfect fireproof safe? Check out our collection! 🔥🔒