Intumescent Coatings in US, Canada and UK
The field of passive fire protection keeps evolving. While intumescent coatings are essential for protecting structural steel, code officials in the US, Canada and the UK are now looking to these solutions for other types of materials. Timber, plasterboard and concrete often fall into this category. Adapting fire safety strategies to new substrates means navigating a changing landscape of standards, approvals and best practices, no matter where the project is located.
Timber Fire Protection: Regional Codes and Practical Considerations
Mass timber buildings are on the rise, from community centers in Ontario to commercial complexes in New England and schools in Scotland. Whether you’re working with cross-laminated timber (CLT) or glulam beams, the right intumescent coating is essential for meeting fire rating requirements and keeping occupants safe.
In the US, fire resistance for timber is typically measured by ASTM E84 and E119, while Canada follows CAN/ULC S102 and S101. UK builders work to BS476 and EN13501 standards. Each region has its own demands for test evidence and application records. For example, differences in wood species and installation methods can impact required thickness or number of coats.
IFTI works closely with architects and contractors to ensure the right product is selected and correctly installed. For additional insights into fire safety and timber compliance, visit our fire protection resources.
Plasterboard Upgrades: More than Just Drywall
Plasterboard is a workhorse fire barrier, but its standard protection is sometimes not enough for today’s code-driven projects. Whether you’re upgrading corridors in a US high-rise, converting heritage spaces in Montreal, or modernizing escape routes in Manchester, intumescent coatings offer a way to boost fire ratings and meet new requirements.
North American projects often require UL or Intertek-listed coatings and thorough documentation for inspectors. UK jobs look for Class 0 or EN13501-1 ratings. A uniform, documented application makes the difference, using dry film thickness checks and clear jobsite records.
Concrete: Preventing Spalling and Extending Durability
While concrete is naturally fire-resistant, high temperatures can cause surface spalling or even structural compromise. Intumescent coatings provide a layer of thermal insulation, reducing the risk of explosive break-up and helping concrete structures meet higher fire resistance standards.
Different regions reference their own test standards—UL 263 and ASTM E119 in the US, CAN/ULC-S101 in Canada, and EN13381 or BS476 in the UK. Environmental conditions like humidity and temperature at the time of application also affect coating performance, which is why local site supervision and certified applicator training are so important.
Navigating Codes, Countries and Collaboration
Building codes may differ, but the need for verified fire protection is universal. Whether you’re navigating ICC and NFPA guidelines in the US, CCMC protocols in Canada, or Approved Document B in the UK, getting every detail right matters. Teams that stay ahead of local requirements through the right documentation, field checks and expert guidance avoid costly setbacks and build safer, more resilient spaces.
IFTI is here to bridge the gap. Our technical experts help guide architects, contractors, and inspectors through the specifics of code compliance, product selection, and on-site best practices. If you’re planning a project or need answers for a challenging application, connect with us through our Paint to Protect contact page.