Intumescent paint is a reactive fire resistant coating for structural steel. When exposed to heat, it expands to form a thick, stable insulating char. This char protects the steel from the critical temperatures that cause it to lose strength, preventing structural collapse for a specified period (e.g., 60 or 120 minutes).

Yes. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and UK Building Regulations (Approved Document B), building owners and responsible persons must ensure adequate passive fire protection. This includes protecting structural steelwork to maintain its integrity in a fire, making intumescent coatings a critical compliance solution.

When applied correctly to a properly prepared surface, intumescent coating is a permanent fire protection solution intended to last the lifetime of the building. It does not require scheduled maintenance. However, it must be inspected if damaged (e.g., by impact or building works) to ensure its integrity remains intact.

Intumescent coatings are tested and certified to provide specific periods of fire resistance, typically 30, 60, 90, or 120 minutes. The required rating depends on the building's size, use, and design, as specified by Building Regulations. We apply systems certified to meet all UK standards.

The cost of intumescent coating in the UK varies based on the required fire rating, the size and complexity of the steelwork, and project location. Prices are typically calculated per square metre. Contact us for a free, no-obligation survey and precise quote tailored to your specific project.

Yes, but only with specific products designed for external use. External intumescent coatings are formulated to withstand UK weather conditions, including UV radiation and moisture. We use only certified external-grade systems for outdoor steelwork to guarantee lasting performance.

Intumescent paint provides a thin-film, aesthetic finish that can be over-painted to match any décor, making it ideal for exposed architectural steel. Fireproof boards are thicker, bulkier, and are typically used where appearance is less critical. Paint offers design flexibility, while boards are often a utilitarian solution.

Project timelines depend on the size and complexity of the steelwork, as well as environmental conditions. Surface preparation is crucial and can be time-consuming. For a standard commercial project, application itself can often be completed efficiently by our expert teams, minimising on-site disruption.

Absolutely. Upon completion, we provide a full certification package that details the product used, the fire rating achieved, and the application standard. This documentation is essential for your building's fire safety file and is proof of compliance for insurers and regulators.

Yes, Premier Commercial Painting provides certified intumescent coating and fire protection services across the entire United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Our network of trained applicators ensures national coverage with consistent, high-quality standards.