Intumescent Fireproofing Contractor Serving Iowa
Intumescent fireproofing material (IFRM) is often confused as paint, but it is truly a coating. Intumescent fireproofing is used to protect the steel structure of the building, preventing it from getting too hot and losing its strength. Applied with special paint pumps, it is sprayed into place in many coats, sometimes over many days. Paint is usually applied on walls at around 4mils thickness. Intumescent fireproofing will have a thickness of around 60 mils to over 350 mils. For context, 380 mils would be equal to 3/8” thick.
Common Types of Intumescent Fireproofing Material
Intumescent fireproofing can be water, solvent, or epoxy based and used for interior or exterior applications. They can be single or plural component.
Water-Based Intumescent
Water-based intumescent fireproofing materials are environmentally friendly and low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them ideal for indoor applications with ventilation concerns. They expand when exposed to high temperatures, forming a protective char layer that insulates structural elements and delays heat transfer.
Solvent-Based Intumescent
Solvent-based intumescent coatings are more durable and moisture-resistant than water-based alternatives, making them suitable for exterior or high-humidity environments. They offer good adhesion and long-term protection, but they typically emit higher VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and require careful handling during application.
Epoxy-Based Intumescent
Epoxy-based intumescent fireproofing systems provide superior mechanical strength and chemical resistance, ideal for harsh industrial or offshore environments. These materials form a dense, insulating char when exposed to fire, offering high-performance fire protection under extreme conditions.
Where IFRM is Typically Applied
Typically used on exposed structural steel, intumescent fireproofing is ideal for use in a variety of buildings and on numerous structural materials, including:
Types of Buildings
The following are types of buildings that intumescent fireproofing can be effective:
-
Commercial buildings
-
Industrial facilities
-
High-rise buildings
-
Hospitals and healthcare facilities
-
Educational institutions
-
Residential buildings
-
Stadiums and arenas
-
Government and military facilities
Types of Materials
The following are types of materials on which intumescent fireproofing can be effectively applied:
-
Structural steel
-
Cast or precast concrete
-
Wood
-
Gypsum board
-
Composite materials
Benefits of Intumescent Fireproofing Material
Intumescent fireproofing material offers a high-performance solution for protecting structural elements from the damaging effects of fire. Its unique ability to expand and form a protective char layer under heat makes it a reliable and versatile fireproofing option across various building types. Some of the key benefits of intumescent fireproofing include:
Aesthetic Finish
Intumescent fireproofing provides a smooth, paint-like finish that blends seamlessly with architectural designs, making it ideal for exposed structural elements. It allows for both fire safety and visual appeal without compromising design intent.
Space Efficient
Unlike other bulkier fireproofing methods, intumescent coatings are thin and lightweight, preserving valuable space in buildings. This is especially beneficial in areas with spatial constraints or where clean lines and minimalism are desired.
Durable and Moisture Resistant
Certain intumescent fireproofing products, especially epoxy- and solvent-based types, offer excellent resistance to moisture, chemicals, and physical wear. This makes them suitable for long-term protection in harsh environments, including exterior and industrial settings.
Versatile and Compatible
Intumescent coatings adhere well to various substrates, including steel, wood, and concrete, and can be used across a wide range of building types. Their compatibility with different surfaces and finishes adds flexibility during construction and retrofitting.
Minimal Maintenance
Once applied, intumescent fireproofing typically requires little upkeep, reducing long-term maintenance costs. Intumescent fireproofing’s stability and resistance to cracking or flaking help maintain performance over time without frequent inspections or repairs.
Code Compliant with Architectural Freedom
Intumescent fireproofing meets stringent fire safety codes while allowing architects the freedom to express modern design aesthetics. It supports compliance without dictating structural or visual limitations, bridging safety and creativity.
Contact Our Intumescent Fireproofing Contractors
At Iowa Spray Foam Insulators, our fireproofing contractors have successfully completed small intumescent fireproofing jobs only taking 10 gallons up to jobs that used thousands of gallons. Whether your project is small or large, our experienced fireproofing contractors are prepared to deliver high-quality, code-compliant intumescent fireproofing solutions. To learn more about our intumescent fireproofing services, contact us today!
