Fire Protection & Intumescent Coating
Specialist Contractors
DH FIRE COATINGS delivers compliant fire protection for new-build steel frames, refurbishment projects and existing structures. From pre-install coatings to post-install remedial works, we combine technical precision with regulatory certainty.
Certified Passive Fire Protection for Structural Steel
When steel is exposed to fire, it weakens rapidly.
Intumescent fire coatings provide critical protection by expanding under heat to form an insulating char layer. This protective barrier slows structural failure, supports safe evacuation and ensures compliance with UK fire safety regulations.
We deliver professional intumescent fire coatings across the UK, supporting contractors, developers and commercial property owners with fully certified passive fire protection systems.
What Are Intumescent Fire Coatings
Intumescent coatings are specialist fire protection paints applied to structural steel. When exposed to high temperatures, they react chemically and expand up to 50 times their original thickness.
This expansion forms a dense insulating layer that:
- Reduces heat transfer to steel
- Maintains structural stability
- Provides 30, 60, 90 or 120 minute fire ratings
- Supports compliance with Approved Document B
Unlike traditional fire boarding, intumescent coatings maintain architectural appearance while delivering engineered fire resistance.
Intumescent Fire Coatings for Commercial Projects
We work across the UK providing intumescent fire coatings for:
Office
developments
Industrial
units
Warehousing & logistics facilities
Retail
spaces
Healthcare & educational buildings
Residential apartment
blocks
Whether your project requires thin-film water-based systems or high-build epoxy intumescent coatings for demanding environments, we specify and apply the correct system for your fire rating requirement.
Fully Certified Application
Fire protection must be applied correctly to perform correctly.
Our intumescent fire coatings service includes:
- Specification review and product selection
- Surface preparation to required standards
- Controlled spray or brush application
- Wet film and dry film thickness testing
- Full documentation and certification
Every project is delivered in accordance with manufacturer data sheets and UK fire safety standards.
Fire Ratings We Deliver
We apply intumescent fire coatings to achieve:
- 30 minute fire protection
- 60 minute fire protection
- 90 minute fire protection
- 120 minute fire protection
All ratings are calculated based on section factors and steel profiles to ensure precise compliance.
Why Choose Our Intumescent Fire Coatings UK Service
Experienced
applicators
Certified systems from leading manufacturers
Clear documentation for building control
Reliable project
scheduling
Competitive, transparent pricing
We understand that delays on site are costly. Our team integrates seamlessly with principal contractors and steel fabricators to keep programmes moving.
Request an Intumescent Fire Coatings Quote
If you require intumescent fire coatings in the UK for a current or upcoming project, speak with our technical team today.
We will assess your steelwork specification, confirm required fire resistance periods and provide a detailed quotation with clear timelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is intumescent coating and how does it protect structural steel?
Intumescent coatings expand when exposed to high temperatures, forming an insulating char layer that protects steel from reaching critical failure temperatures. This slows structural collapse and helps buildings meet fire resistance regulations.
How do I know what fire rating my building requires?
Fire resistance requirements are determined by Approved Document Part B of the Building Regulations and depend on building type, height, and use. We can review your project specifications or work with your structural engineer to ensure the correct fire rating is applied.
Do you work to Part B fire regulations?
Yes. All applications are carried out in accordance with Part B of the Building Regulations and manufacturer specifications. Certification and compliance documentation can be provided upon completion.
How is the correct paint thickness measured on site?
We calculate required wet film thickness based on structural drawings and fire rating requirements. On site, wet film thickness measurements are taken during application to ensure compliance with the specified fire resistance period.
Can you work with a specified product from an architect or engineer?
Absolutely. If a product has already been specified, we apply it in accordance with manufacturer guidance. If no product has been specified, we can recommend and liaise with approved manufacturers to determine the correct system.
Do you provide certification after completion?
Yes. We provide confirmation of application in line with manufacturer requirements and compliance documentation required for building control sign off.
Can intumescent coatings be applied to timber as well as steel?
Yes. Whilst most commonly applied to structural steel, fire retardant coatings are increasingly used on timber elements, particularly in residential and mixed use developments.
Do you carry out surface preparation before application?
Yes. Surface condition is critical to performance. We assess whether existing steel is pre primed or requires preparation, and we ensure the substrate is suitable before application begins.
Can you work on live sites and refurbishment projects?
Yes. We regularly work on refurbishment and redevelopment projects, including structural strip back to steel frame constructions. We coordinate with principal contractors to minimise disruption and meet programme deadlines.
How long does intumescent coating application take?
Programme duration depends on project size, access, and required fire rating. Once drawings are reviewed, we can provide a clear timeline and application schedule to fit your build programme.