Before proceeding with a building’s framework, a responsible builder must understand the basics of applying fireproofing coatings. Keep reading to learn the questions to ask before applying a fire-resistant coating to any building. These common questions and answers will help prepare builders, engineers, and architects with the proper way to fireproof a building’s framework.
What Is the Difference Between Fire-Resistant and Fire-Retardant Coatings?
First, ensure that you know the distinct types of coatings you are working with by understanding the differences between fire-resistant and fire-retardant paints. While the goal of both materials is to stop the spread of fire, each type of coating has a unique protection mechanism. Fire-retardant paints minimize the spread of fire and smoke over a given surface by releasing a gas that helps dampen the flames. Fire-resistant intumescent coatings expand in size when subjected to a fire, protecting the building materials beneath from the heat.
When Is the Best Time To Apply Coatings?
Before preparing to spray flame-resistant coatings, you should also know when it’s the optimal time to apply them to your building materials. Ideally, the best time to apply flame-resistant paint and coatings is after the building’s framing is in place. This allows for easy access to the building’s framework and structural materials that could be at risk during a fire. Once the building’s inner mechanics and insulation are added, it can become difficult to apply fire-resistant coatings to the necessary surfaces.
When Are Coatings Required?
Fire-retardant or fire-resistant coatings are required during the construction of retrofit and new building. For example, If a builder constructs a home or other building with I-joists, they must protect these materials with fire-retardant coatings. This is because engineered I joists are extremely sensitive to fire and can quickly jeopardize the structure of the building when they catch fire. Intumescent coatings are recognized by many building codes as alternate means method. The building code provision promote a building’s safety and structural integrity.
How To Apply Fire-Resistant Coatings
Depending on the type of fire-resistant coating you have selected for your building, there are several ways to apply the coating. Many types of intumescent coatings apply like standard paint, allowing you to spray them, roll them, or brush them onto the material surface you need to protect.. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines when it comes to applying fire-resistant coatings and intumescent paint.
Before starting work on a building project, you must be able to understand how intumescent coatings work and its performance. It is also suggested that before commencing any type of work, be able to read the application instructions provided by the manufacturer. know the answers to these questions to ask before applying fire-resistant coating. Now that you understand these basics of applying fire coatings, you are better prepared to complete a safe building construction. If you are searching for coatings to use in building safety, browse our products, such as 2-hour rated intumescent paint, on our website today.
