INTUMESCENT COATINGS
WHAT IS AN INTUMESCENT COATING?
Intumescent coatings are a type of paint that expands when exposed to heat or fire. This expansion creates a layer of insulating foam that protects the underlying substrate from the heat of the fire. Intumescent coatings can be applied to a wide range of surfaces, including steel, concrete, and wood. They are designed to slow down the spread of fire and give occupants of the building more time to evacuate.
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These coatings have become increasingly popular in the construction industry, particularly in commercial and residential settings, as they provide a cost-effective solution for meeting building code requirements for fire resistance.
WHAT KIND OF PAINT IS INTUMESCENT COATING?
Intumescent coatings are a specialised type of paint that is made to provide fire resistance. They can be classified into two main categories: thin-film intumescent coatings and thick-film intumescent coatings.
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Thin-film intumescent coatings are applied in thin layers, typically less than 1 mm thick, and are suitable for use in residential and light commercial buildings. They offer excellent fire resistance and are often used on structural steelwork, doors, and ceilings.
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​Thick-film intumescent coatings, on the other hand, are applied in thicker layers, typically between 1 mm and 3 mm thick, and are suitable for use in heavy industrial and commercial buildings. They offer superior fire protection and are often used on structural steelwork, columns, and beams.
COMMONLY USED INTUMESCENT COATINGS
​​​There are several different types of intumescent coatings available, each with its own unique properties and applications.
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1. Water-based intumescent coatings: are the most commonly used type of intumescent coating. They are easy to apply and clean up with water, making them an excellent choice for residential and light commercial buildings.
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2. Solvent-based intumescent coatings: are more durable than water-based coatings and are often used in heavy industrial and commercial buildings. They are resistant to chemicals and abrasion, making them suitable for harsh environments.
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3. Epoxy intumescent coatings: are a type of solvent-based coating that offers excellent adhesion to steel surfaces. They are often used in industrial settings where high levels of durability and fire resistance are required.
APPLICATIONS
Residential Applications
Intumescent coatings are an excellent choice for residential buildings as they provide exceptional fire protection without compromising on aesthetics. Thin-film intumescent coatings are commonly used on doors and ceilings, while thicker coatings are used on structural steelwork. These coatings can be applied to a range of surfaces, including wood and concrete, and are available in a variety of colours and finishes.
Commercial Applications
Intumescent coatings are also commonly used in commercial buildings, particularly those with a high risk of fire, such as hospitals, schools, and hotels. These coatings can help to slow down the spread of fire, giving occupants more time to evacuate and reducing the risk of asset damage.
Thick-film intumescent coatings are often used in commercial buildings as they provide superior fire protection and are resistant to abrasion and chemicals. They are commonly used on structural steel work, columns, and beams, and can also be used on fire-rated doors and walls.
Another benefit of using intumescent coatings in commercial buildings is that they can help to meet building code requirements for fire resistance. Building codes typically require buildings to meet specific fire resistance ratings, and intumescent coatings can be used to achieve these ratings without adding significant weight or thickness to the building materials.
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​Working closely with our suppliers Tremco, Nullifier, Sherwin Williams, Protecta and Jotun we will ensure all steel work has the correct loading and provide detailed documentation before the project starts with specified WFT and DFT requirements, reports throughout the project and a full report once the project is complete along with IFC certification.
