Intumescent Coatings for Structural Steel
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Intumescent & Fire Retardant Coatings
What Are Intumescent and Fire Retardant Coatings?
Intumescent coatings are applied to structural elements like steel. In the event of a fire, the coating expands to form a thick, insulating layer, which slows down heat transfer and protects the material beneath. These coatings are often rated to provide 30, 60, 90, or 120 minutes of fire resistance.
Fire retardant coatings are typically used on combustible materials such as timber. They work by slowing ignition and reducing flame spread, helping to contain fires and protect escape routes.
How Intumescent Paint Spraying Works
Intumescent coatings for structural steel. In a fire, an intumescent coating swells to many times its applied thickness, forming an insulating char that slows the rate at which the steel heats up. That buys time for people to leave the building and for the fire service to work. Typical requirements are 30, 60, 90 or 120 minutes of fire resistance.
How the right thickness is worked out. The dry film thickness needed depends on the fire rating, the size and shape of each steel section (its section factor) and the product used. A coating system is usually a compatible primer, the intumescent basecoat and a sealer or top coat. Thickness is checked with a gauge as the work progresses so the finished coating matches the specification.
Fire retardant coatings for timber. Fire retardant coatings reduce how quickly flame spreads across the surface of timber and boards, helping walls and ceilings meet the surface spread of flame classification required for the building. We have applied Class 0 and Class 1 fire retardant coatings to timber ceilings, as in our Harlow project.
On site application. We apply intumescent and fire retardant coatings on site in new builds, refurbishments and occupied buildings, protecting surrounding areas and planning the work around the building’s use. Recent steelwork includes 60-minute systems on warehouse portal frames in Biggleswade and London.
Our Approach
We work closely with clients, contractors, and building inspectors to make sure the right systems are used and applied correctly. Here’s how we handle each project:
- Assessment – We review the fire rating needed and the material being coated.
- Surface Prep – All surfaces are cleaned, repaired and primed as required.
- Application – Coatings are applied by our trained team using the correct thickness for the required rating.
- Topcoat (if needed) – Where aesthetics matter, we can apply a matching finish coat.
- Certification – We supply fire rating documentation and test data for building control.
Where We Use Fire Coatings
We apply intumescent and fire retardant coatings across a wide range of commercial, industrial, and residential settings, including:
- Structural steel frames and supports
- Fire doors and timber panelling
- Plasterboard walls and ceilings
- Heritage joinery and exposed features
- Escape routes, stairwells, and corridors
We can apply coatings on-site or off-site, depending on the project requirements and accessibility.
For timber, boards and ceilings, see our fire retardant coatings page.
Why Use Fire Protection Coatings?
- Meets UK Building Regulations – Coatings are tested to BS and EN standards.
- Long-Lasting – With correct application and environment, coatings can last 10–15+ years.
- Minimal Disruption – No need to remove existing elements or affect the building layout.
- Professional Finish – Suitable for visible or decorative surfaces, not just back-of-house.
- Certified Results – We provide full fire rating documentation on completion.
Why Choose Us?
- Experienced in both small and large-scale projects
- Fully trained applicators
- Flexible scheduling, including out-of-hours work if required
- Fire certificates and data sheets supplied with every job
- Trusted by contractors, developers, and property managers
Get a Quote or Book a Site Visit
If you need intumescent or fire retardant coatings for your project, we’re here to help.
Contact us today for a quote, or to arrange a site visit.
Intumescent & Fire Retardant Coating Projects
Intumescent Coating Application Biggleswade
We applied a 60-minute intumescent coating system to a steel portal frame in Biggleswade, providing certified fire protection and peace of mind.
Intumescent Paint Spraying London
Our intumescent paint spraying project in London provided 60-minute fire protection for a warehouse using a compliant three-coat system.
Fire Retardant Paint Spraying Harlow
See how our fire retardant paint spraying in Harlow protected a wooden ceiling with Class 0 and Class 1 coatings. Fast application and professional results.
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Our Intumiscent Coating Application Process
Thorough Site Survey:
We begin with a detailed inspection of the substrate to be coated, assessing its condition, material type, and environment. This allows us to provide an accurate assessment of the work required and ensures the correct approach is taken from the outset. By understanding the structure in full, we can recommend the most suitable intumescent coating system for your project.
Customised Calculations:
Based on the inspection, we produce a tailored coating specification to meet the required fire rating. This includes all necessary calculations to achieve the correct dry film thickness and level of protection. Depending on the application and environment, coatings can be applied internally or externally using either water-based or solvent-based systems. Every specification is designed to meet compliance requirements while remaining practical for the site conditions.
High-Quality On-Site Application:
Our experienced technicians apply all coatings using professional equipment and approved application methods. Care is taken at every stage to achieve a consistent, durable finish while ensuring surrounding areas are fully protected. We work efficiently and methodically to minimise disruption, maintaining high standards of workmanship throughout the process.
Certified Project Completion:
Once the application is complete, we carry out a final evaluation to ensure the coating meets the specified requirements. Upon approval, the client is provided with written certification confirming the achieved fire rating, giving full confidence that the system has been applied correctly and in line with the agreed specification.
Accreditations
Our paint spraying teams are fully qualified and accredited by a range industry bodies, demonstrating the professional level of our on site spraying and coating services and why you should trust in Spray Chroma to deliver commercial paint spraying solutions of a high scale.
Choosing Spray Chroma for Your Intumescent Coating Requirements
You’re investing in quality, efficiency, and a compliant fire protection system that enhances both the safety and long-term performance of your property. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve outstanding results with our professional intumescent coating services.