In short, yes! Spray foam insulation is a foam plastic that is a combustible material and is considered a risk for spreading flames. It is required by the International Building Code (IBC) to be separated from occupied building spaces by ½” gypsum board or a 15-minute thermal barrier. A thermal barrier, such as intumescent paint for spray foam insulation, is a material specifically designed to impede the transfer of heat. In construction, a thermal barrier is installed to protect flammable materials from exposure to high temperatures. When we consider using materials like spray foam insulation, which can contribute to the spread of fire if not properly protected, this is especially important.
A 15-minute thermal barrier (a barrier that resists catching or spreading fire for 15 minutes after exposure) is normally constructed with materials like gypsum, fire-rated drywall or material that has passed the NFPA 275 requirements, which are considered prescriptive thermal barriers. Intumescent coatings like DC315 are considered to be alternative thermal barriers. As specified in IBC Section 2603.9, alternative thermal barriers must undergo large-scale fire testing representing the actual end-use configuration. DC315 has passed NFPA 286 testing over every major spray foam manufacturer and has been issued ICC-ESR-3702 evaluation report confirming the coated foam plastic assembly may be used in lieu of covering with the prescribed ½” gypsum board.
See the DC315 ICC-ESR-3702 Evaluation Report here
Both NFPA 275-tested thermal barriers and NFPA 286-tested alternative thermal barriers meet IBC and IRC requirements, which extend to most regional building codes throughout Canada and the United States.
What makes DC315 intumescent paint for spray foam insulation an ideal solution to creating an alternative thermal barrier. The DC315 is a quick, easy installation with a spray-applied coating that eliminates the need to build costly wood-framed assemblies using gypsum. The product is applied to a thickness of 14-24 mils wet after the spray foam has set. Take care not to confuse “mils” with “mm”; “mils” refers to thousands of an inch. Therefore, 4 mils are equal to 4 thousandths of an inch, or .45 mm.
For more information on measuring wet film thickness, read our blog post: How-to-measure-wet-film-thickness
How Does Intumescent Paint Work?
Intumescent paint is designed to expand when exposed to high temperatures, creating an insulating char layer that slows the heat transfer and protects the underlying spray foam insulation. This unique property greatly enhances the fire resistance of the insulation, providing crucial extra minutes for occupants to evacuate the building in case of a fire.
Another advantage of using intumescent paint is its versatility. It can be applied to various surfaces and shapes, making it ideal for complex architectural designs where traditional thermal barriers like drywall may not be practical. Its seamless application ensures that even hard-to-reach areas are adequately protected, maintaining the integrity of the fire barrier throughout the structure.
IFTI’s DC315 intumescent/fireproof paint is an excellent choice for fire protection of spray foam insulation. Its ease of application and superior fire-resistant qualities make it a valuable component in building construction, enhancing both the safety and longevity of structures.
To learn more about fire retardant paint, browse our blog or reach out to us via the International Fireproof Technologies Inc. contact page!