Coatings & Process

Intumescent coatings must be applied over an approved primer and topcoated with an approved product.

When reviewing the drawings, they will indicate which members of steel require fire protection. The size of the steel member, the hourly rating required and use of the steel member (column, beam, angle, channel, etc.), will determine the amount of intumescent coating. We have the resources to assist you with determining film thickness requirements.

The intumescent coatings are applied on-site via airless spray. Brush/roll is generally only used for touch-up and repair because film thickness can only be achieved by airless spray. For example, if the steel required 90 mils of intumescent coating, you would have to apply 3 coats at 45 mils wft/30 mils dft to meet the specification.

Please refer to the product data page for specific application characteristics.

Who typically applies this coating?

Commercial painters or commercial fireproofing companies generally apply intumescent coatings. These coatings are not difficult to apply, but it is critical that the required film thickness is achieved to meet the application requirements of the specific coating.

Key barriers to entry:

Most commercial painting companies have the equipment to apply the coatings. However, they also need an understanding of the specific requirements of applying fireproofing. Required film thickness must be achieved in accordance with the UL listed thickness which corresponds to the hourly rating in specification. And the final film appearance should look like a standard painted surface. So application technique is important as well.

Sherwin-Williams can assist in determining required film thicknesses for each individual steel member. We can also help with application technique to get the desired aesthetic finish.