Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! All FlameOFF® products are in stock and ready to ship:

• Standard orders (32 oz- 5 gallon containers): Shipped within 24-48 hours of purchase
• 55-gallon drums: Require 2 weeks additional processing before shipment
• Need urgent delivery? Contact our team for expedited options.

No, one fire retardant product cannot protect all materials. Different materials require specific fire retardant formulations for optimal protection. For example, you wouldn't apply latex- based paint to fabric materials. Why different products are needed:

• Wood fire retardants require penetrating formulations
• Fabric fire retardants need flexible, washable treatments
• Metal fire protection needs intumescent coatings
• Plastic fire retardants require specialized adhesion properties

FlameOFF's material expertise ensures we recommend the right fire retardant product for your specific material and application needs.

FlameOFF® Coatings provides comprehensive technical support through live phone consultation. When you call us, you speak directly to knowledgeable personnel who understand fire retardant products and application processes. FlameOFF® Coatings, Inc. personnel have all witnessed fire tests and understand building and NFPA codes and standards. We work with building officials and fire marshals nearly every day, answering questions and providing technical data and product test reports.

All our coatings are:

• Water-based (0% bromides/formaldehyde)
• Exceed LEED v4.1 standards
• Certified by 3rd party environmental testing programs such as UL's GreenGuard Gold and Intertek's CDPH Indoor Air Quality Test; Clean Air GOLD certified

You can read about additional information here! https://www.flameoffcoatings.com/leed

FlameOFF Coatings is a leading developer of fire resistant and fire retardant technologies that protect lives and property.We specialize in innovative intumescent coatings with an architecturally smooth finish, as well as invisible fire protection solutions that preserve the natural appearance of treated materials while providing code- compliant fire safety.

FlameOFF specializes in:

• Intumescent fire resistant coatings for steel, gypsum, and wood construction
• Fire retardant coatings for wood, fabric, and plastics
• 3rd party tested and listed fire protection products
• Historic preservation fire safety solutions
• Commercial and residential fire protection systems

Due to the specialized nature of our products, most FlameOFF® orders are non-returnable and non-refundable once shipped.

Please note:

Fire Barrier Paint is part of a third-party listing program with strict manufacturing and handling audits. This means once it leaves our facility, it cannot be returned to stock.

FR Clear may be returned within 30 days of purchase, but:

• A 10% restocking fee applies
• Shipping costs are non-refundable

We strongly encourage you to consult our Technical Support Team before placing your order to ensure the correct product is selected for your project. All sales are final unless otherwise specified.

While FlameOFF® does not directly provide inspection services, we recommend working with agencies accredited by the International Accreditation Service(IAS).

The IAS maintains:

• A searchable list of approved fire safety inspectors
• Training programs for building officials and fire protection professionals

This is especially useful for projects requiring third-party verification of ASTM E84, ASTM E119 or other fire testing standards. You can find more about our compliance and certifications on our Fire Testing page, and under our Testing and Listing pages beneath each product.
As a reminder, inspection specifications are subject to local requirements. Check with your local AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) for your specific project needs.

FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint is significantly thicker than standard latex paint. With 71% volume solids, it delivers nearly twice the coating density of conventional paint products.

Dry Film Thickness (DFT) requirements vary depending on the substrate (e.g., steel, gypsum, or wood) and the desired fire rating (e.g., 1-hour vs. 2-hour protection), but can generally range from 10-300 mils DFT.

For help calculating DFT and coverage you can visit our Steel Coverage Calculator or contact our technical team for a project-specific quote.

When exposed to fire, intumescent coatings like FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint expand up to 50 times their original thickness, forming a protective char layer. This insulating carbonaceous barrier delays structural failure by:

• Drastically slowing heat transfer to the substrate
• Reducing flame spread
• Extending escape time in fire emergencies

Depending on the initial application thickness and fire duration, this char can range from a few millimeters to several inches. Learn more about how intumescents work in our Comprehensive Guide to Intumescent Paint.

Despite its density (71% volume solids), FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint dries to a smooth, latex like finish.

For best aesthetic results:

• Use a qualified applicator with airless spray equipment
• Follow our detailed Application Guide
• Enroll in our online training certification module to ensure proper product handling and finish quality

FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint comes in a standard white finish.

If a different color is required for aesthetic or design purposes, the product can be top-coated with:

• Latex or acrylic paints
• Matte or low-gloss finishes only (avoid high-gloss or oil-based topcoats)
• Always allow the intumescent coating to cure fully before applying a topcoat. Contact our informed technical support team for more thorough topcoating guidelines.

No — do not tint FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint.

Any modification to the product formulation, including adding tints or pigments, can:

• Compromise fire protection performance
• Invalidate third-party testing and code compliance

Instead, apply your preferred latex or acrylic topcoat after the intumescent coating has dried and cured.

FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint is durable and long-lasting with no defined expiration once applied.

As long as the coating remains:

• Intact
• Undamaged
• Protected from environmental wear

It will continue to provide passive fire protection.

Reapplication may be required if there is:

• Surface abrasion or chipping
• Harsh environmental exposure
• Physical damage from impact or movement

For inspection and maintenance tips, contact our team. Lastly, this product has a 1 year shelf life in the unopened container.

Currently, the smallest packaging size available for FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint is a 5-gallon pail.

For larger projects or pallet orders, please request a quote via our Contact Form.

An intumescent coating (also called intumescent paint) is a passive fire protection system that:

• Appears as standard paint under normal conditions
• Swells when exposed to temperatures above 392°F (200°C)
• Forms an insulating carbonaceous char that protects structural materials

Intumescent coatings are commonly used on:

• Steel structural members such as columns and beams
• Gypsum walls and ceilings
• Wood
• Additional substrates such as FRP, vacuformed thermoplastics, etc.

They help delay structural collapse and extend evacuation times for building occupants.

Learn more in our article: Comprehensive Guide to Intumescent Paint

Our flagship intumescent product is:

FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint
A water-based, intumescent fireproof coating for:

• Steel
• Gypsum
• Wood

It is tested to meet ASTM E84, E2768, E119, and other applicable U.S. and Canadian standards. Learn more about it on the official product page.

No. Intumescent coatings like FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint do not activate under normal heating conditions.

Expansion occurs only at high fire temperatures — above 392°F (200°C) — which are typical of flashover or direct flame contact in fire scenarios.

Heaters used in standard environments will not trigger activation.

Yes, in most cases. FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint is tested to meet both U.S. and Canadian fire safety standards, as confirmed in our third-party test reports.

For jurisdiction-specific documentation, contact our team with more specific questions. Learn more about Canadian Standard of Fire Safety in our article.

No, this product is not frost resistant and can be susceptible to freeze damage.

Storage and shipping requirements:

• Keep between 45°F – 100°F (10°C – 40°C)
• Store in dry indoor locations

Avoid freezing during transit or storage, freeze damage will impair application and product integrity.

No, it is not a rust-inhibiting primer.

FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint is a water-based latex coating that requires:

• Proper surface prep to remove mill scale, oil, or corrosion
• And a protective primer for rust prevention -- we typically recommend an alkyd metal primer

The intumescent product provides fire resistance, not corrosion resistance. See full details on our Fire Barrier Paint page.

Yes, FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint can help you achieve a 2-hour fire rating on existing 5/8" Type X drywall without adding an additional layer. This is an excellent space-saving solution for retrofits or renovations.

Application may be required on one or both sides of the wall, depending upon the existing construction. See full test assembly or request additional drywall testing documents via our Contact Page for further details. Read more in our article: Finish Rating on Drywall

Yes, FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint is UL Classified for specific assemblies.

To verify UL listings:

Visit the UL Product iQ Directory and search for FlameOFF®

You can also find this information on the product page under the "Listings" tab!

Or contact our team to help identify the right listing for your project.

UL Classification ensures that our product meets rigorous third-party standards for fire protection.

"Fire Rated" doors typically require this rating directly from the factory, especially because of the role they play in safely evacuating buildings! In our experience, intumescent coatings are not typically accepted to modify non fire rated doors.

As a result, we do not currently recommend using FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint for use on doors. Ultimately, approval is at the discretion of the AHJ.

If you have any further questions, reach out via our Contact Page.

Fire Barrier Paint should be stored:

• Indoors, between 45°F – 100°F (10°C – 40°C)
• In a dry, shaded location
• Away from direct sunlight or freezing temperatures

Freeze damage will render the product unusable, so plan your storage and shipping accordingly, especially during winter months.

No, do not dilute FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint under any circumstances.

It is a ready-to-use product and does not require thinning with water or solvents. Diluting the product will compromise its fire protection performance and may invalidate testing compliance.

FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint begins expanding at approximately:

392°F (200°C)

This thermal activation point allows the coating to remain inert during normal building operations but respond rapidly in a fire scenario, forming a protective char layer that insulates and shields the substrate.

FR Clear is a water-based, clear fire-retardant coating designed to slow flame spread and reduce heat release on treated materials.

How it works:

• Penetrates porous surfaces (like wood and fabric) and binds with the fiber of the material as a fire retardant salt
• Reacts to high heat by releasing flame-inhibiting gases and forming a protective layer
• Meets multiple ASTM and NFPA standards for flame spread and ignition resistance

Learn more on our FR Clear Product Page or contact our informed technical sales team.

FR Clear is primarily designed for interior applications, we do not recommend it for exterior applications as it is a water soluble product.

This product is not tested for exterior applications at this time. Outdoor use may be possible under certain protected conditions at the discretion of your AHJ, but UV exposure and weathering can reduce performance over time. For exterior applications, additional UV and weather protection topcoats may be required. Unprotected exterior applications should be considered temporary and may require periodic reapplication dependent upon exposure to weather.

You can order FR Clear directly from our FlameOFF® website.

• Click ORDER NOW in the top right corner
• Orders typically ship within 24-48 hours
• The product is shipped directly from our North Carolina manufacturing facility
• Expedited shipping options are available!

FR Clear dries to a transparent, low-sheen finish that preserves the natural look and color of the underlying surface.

• Suitable for projects where aesthetic preservation is important.
• Does not leave a visible residue or color tint when applied properly.

FR Clear is not recommended for vinyl or plastic surfaces because they are nonporous, preventing proper absorption and adhesion.

Yes, FR Clear is designed for use on a variety of porous fabrics, including:

• Natural fibers (like cotton, linen)
• Natural/Synthetic blend fabrics
• Leather

FR Clear penetrates the fabric to provide durable fire retardant protection without affecting texture or flexibility.

For natural fabrics, we recommend diluting 1:1 with water for best absorption (see product data sheet).

Learn more on our FR Clear product page.

Yes, FR Clear is approved for PPE made of cotton fabrics. It has been rigorously tested to:

• ASTM F2700-08 – Fire retardancy of textiles
• ASTM D6413 – Vertical flame testing
• If you’re considering FR Clear for PPE or other specialized uses, contact our technical sales team with your project details for tailored advice.

FR Clear is our main water-based fire retardant coating designed for porous materials such as:

• Raw wood
• Textiles
• Paper
• Leather

For other substrates like steel or drywall, see our Fire Barrier Paint, an intumescent coating providing structural fire protection.

A fire retardant is a product that:

• Slows or inhibits flame spread
• Delays ignition
• Reduces smoke and heat output during a fire

FR Clear is a clear, water-based fire retardant suitable for many porous surfaces to enhance safety without altering appearance.

FR Clear contains 0% volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making it:

• Safe for indoor use
• Compliant with strict environmental and air quality regulations

For more questions on the composition of FR Clear Contact Our Support Team

Yes! FR Clear is odorless and non-toxic, making it safe for people and pets during and after application.

Yes, FR Clear is UL Classified and meets CAN/ULC-S109 standards for fire retardancy. For detailed compliance documents, visit our FR Clear Product Page:

• Extensive test report data can be found under the Testing Tab.

Yes. FR Clear is not susceptible to freeze damage, so it can be stored and shipped in cold climates without losing effectiveness.

No, after drying and curing, FR Clear does not alter the texture or softness of fabrics or leather.

- Note: Different fabrics may behave differently in fire; we recommend spot testing before large-scale application.

FR Clear is not suitable for nonporous surfaces because:

• It requires absorption into the material to bind with the fibers and form an effective fire retardant bond
• On nonporous surfaces, FR Clear will simply bead up and roll off, offering no protection

Watch this short for more information.

No. FR Clear penetrates wood fibers, making it resistant to:

• Light dusting
• Surface cleaning with a damp cloth

However, avoid pooling water or saturation, which can cause:

• Fire retardant material to migrate to the surface
• Chalky residue or discoloration

Learn more about FR Clear on wood.

Drying time of FR Clear depends on:

• Application rate
• Fabric type
• Environmental conditions (temperature, humidity)

Typical drying time is:

• As little as 1 hour in ideal conditions

We recommend allowing 24 hours before using or handling treated fabrics for best results.

Watch a demonstration of applying FR Clear on Fabrics.

No dilution of FR Clear with water is needed for wood or synthetic fabrics.

For natural fabrics, a 1:1 dilution with water improves application and performance.

Always consult the Product Data Sheet for precise dilution guidelines.

Contact our Technical Support Team with any questions.

Trying to determine paint coverage with an intumescent coating can be tricky. Intumescent paint coverage rates are based upon the coating's applied Dry Film Thickness (DFT). DFT varies depending on:

• Substrate type (wood, steel, drywall, etc.)
• Steel profile (for structural steel projects)
• Required rating (such as Class A or B, or 1 or 2 hours)

In general, recommended DFTs can range from 10-300 mils DFT, with corresponding coverage rates from 4-110 sq ft/gallon. Because DFT directly impacts coverage, we recommend contacting a FlameOFF® Representative to figure DFT and coverage rates for your particular project.

You can use the FlameOFF® steel coverage calculator to get an estimation of your required DFT for structural steel applications!

Our Steel Coverage Calculator estimates how much FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint is needed for structural steel.

Each steel member profile (wide flange beams and columns, HSS members, etc.) requires a different DFT to achieve the same fire rating.

To give a tailored material estimate. the calculator factors in:

• Shape
• Size
• Required fire resistance

Try the Steel Coverage Calculator Here.

In most areas, no license or certification is required.

Some jurisdictions may require special qualifications, check with local building authorities to know for sure.

We offer an online certification program for contractors which:

• Is completely free
• Entirely remote
• Takes less than one hour

Ensure professional application, check out the FlameOFF® Certification Program here.

Tip clogging in paint sprayers is caused by solids in the paint that are too large to pass through the spray tip. Here is a list of things you can try in order to avoid tip clogging.

• Ensure rock catcher and filters are removed before use.
• Flush the sprayer and re-prime before application.
• Use the correct tip size — 0.021"–0.025" is recommended for FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint.

Avoid thinning the product — dilution won't reduce solid size.

A primer is not required on wood, however, it is recommended to use an all purpose acrylic primer in order to reduce first-coat absorption and improve finish uniformity.

You can read more about using intumescent coatings on wood here. Contact our technical sales team with any further questions.

No primer is required for gypsum with FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint, but an all purpose acrylic primer may limit the amount of intumescent absorbed into uncoated gypsum and is there for recommended to maximize your coverage rate.

For special site conditions, ask our Technical Team for primer recommendations.Read more about Fire Barrier Paint and Gypsum.

Yes, steel requires primer to address corrosion and adhesion.

• Structural steel: use an alkyd metal primer.
• Galvanized steel: use an all-purpose acrylic primer.

Read more about Fire Barrier Paint and Steel here. Contact our Technical Sales Team for more information.

FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint is tested over bare or primed surfaces only. For this reason, approval for use over a painted substrate is at the discretion of the building official.

Existing paints must be:

• Clean with no cracking, peeling or flaking
• A pull test is recommended to verify adhesion

It is recommended to rough the surface of the existing coating to create better adhesion between the existing paint and the intumescent coating.

For more information contact our Technical Sales Team.

There are multiple ways of measuring the thickness of the applied intumescent coating.

For structural steel:

• Electronic DFT gauge (such as a Defelsko Positector) is the most common method
• Destructive gauges may also be used

For non-metal substrates:

• Wet to Dry film thickness calculations are best utilized, in which a WFT gauge (aka powder comb) is used to measure the depth of the wet coating, which can then be multiplied by the volume solids content (71%) to calculate the dry film thickness. WFT × 0.71 = DFT
• A Tooke gauge may also be used to make a small scratch in the coating and measure the depth of the scratch.

Additional resources:

Fire Barrier Paint Application Guide
Steel Coverage Calculator
Video How To Measure WFT

Wet Film Thickness, or WFT, is the freshly applied thickness of any applied wet paint/coating.
Dry Film Thickness (DFT)is the cured thickness of a coating, when the liquid content has evaporated out.

DFT is calculated based on:

• Volume solids content of the material.
• Both variables are measured in mils.
• Our product is 71% volume solids. Therefore, DFT can be calculated as WFT x 0.71.
• Example: 28 mils WFT x 0.71 ≈ 20 mils DFT.

Additional resources: Watch our video on How to Convert WFT and DFT for FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint

For more information contact our Technical Sales Team.

What is the recommended drying time? (How long does FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint take to cure?)

• Minimum drying time, recoat: 8-24 hours
• Minimum drying time, handling: 24 hours
• Minimum drying time, topcoating: 48-72+ hours, or when a Shore D hardness near 70 is reached.
• Why: To allow excess moisture to escape before applying a new coat. Recoating or topcoating too early can seal in moisture, causing mud cracking or delamination of layers, especially for high mil thickness applications over structural steel.

For more detailed information on application, environmental factors, and surface preparation, please refer to our comprehensive application guide.

Temperature requirements for the application of our intumescent paint:

• Minimum temperature: 45°F (10°C) for the job site and substrate.
• Warning: Lower temperatures and/or higher humidity may significantly extend curing times.

The ambient temperature of the substrate and the job site must be a minimum of 45°F (10°C) for a successful application.

Applying the coating in temperatures below this threshold can prevent the product from curing properly. Always ensure the surface is adequately prepared and within the specified temperature range before you begin.

Review our official Application Guide for greater detail.

Temperature requirements for the application of our intumescent coating:

• Maximum temperature: There is no specific maximum temperature.
• Warning: High temperatures may result in quick drying on the surface.

While there is no maximum temperature for application, high heat can cause "flash drying," which means the surface of the coating dries faster than the layers underneath. This can trap moisture and solvents, leading to adhesion issues or a compromised finish. If applying in hot conditions, ensure proper ventilation and follow the instructions on the product data sheet carefully.

For best practices in various climates, please refer to our Application Guide.

Topcoating FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint:

Yes, you can apply a topcoat over our Fire Barrier Paint once it has fully cured. We recommend using a water-based latex or acrylic paint, as these are typically compatible with our product. Avoid using high gloss or acrylic enamel topcoats, as they may have issues curing or bonding to the intumescent surface.

To ensure the best results, it is recommended to perform a mock-up test in the field with your chosen topcoat to confirm proper adhesion and finish.

For more information on the final steps of your project, see our blog on the Comprehensive Guide to Intumescent Paint.

Here is what to do if the intumescent paint has been activated:

• Step 1: Completely remove the charred coating.
• Step 2: The remaining substrate should then be evaluated for damage. If significant damage is found, it must be repaired or replaced.
• Step 3: Clean and make final checks of the surface.
• Step 4: Re-apply Fire Barrier Paint to the affected area.

Note: In the event of significant activation, it is highly recommended to seek an opinion from a third-party professional to ensure the substrate itself remains functional.

For a proper and successful re-application, please follow the guidelines in our Application Guide

The use of an approved primer is critical for proper adhesion and long-term performance.

• For steel: Alkyd metal primer.
• For wood and galvanized finishes: All-purpose acrylic primer.

Using the correct primer ensures the intumescent coating bonds securely to the surface, allowing it to perform as intended in a fire event.
For current specific primer recommendations, contact our informed Technical Sales Team.

Spraying Fire Barrier Paint over electrical components:

• Fire endurance ratings: Our product is not tested or rated for application over electrical components.
• Plenum space utilities: While it will not damage utilities like ductwork, pipes, or conduits, fire safety ratings should not be assumed for these applications. Approval for overspray application over plenum space utilities is strictly at the discretion of the AHJ. The customer should check with additional trades and utilities manufacturers as to whether or not the application of water based coatings is permitted.

To learn more about the certified applications of our products, please visit our Testing Page.

If a substrate becomes wet during application of our intumescent coating, action may be required. Since Fire Barrier Paint is a water-based coating, it can be affected by moisture, especially before it is fully cured.

• Action required: Evaluate the coating for adhesion loss. This may be present as peeling, bubbling, or delamination of the coating.
• Reapplication: If adhesion loss is present, the existing coating must be removed and reapplied. The jobsite must be protected from weather exposure.
• Solution: Care must be taken during application to prevent the prepared substrates, and the recently applied coating, from exposure to water. Once the coating has cured, an exterior-grade topcoat can be used to protect the intumescent from environmental exposure.

Learn more about our product.

Yes, high humidity can affect the performance and long-term durability of Fire Barrier Paint.

• Recommendation: A topcoat is recommended for additional protection in non-conditioned spaces.
• UL Classification: The product is UL Classified for interior conditioned and interior general purpose conditions.

For more information on product classifications and topcoat recommendations, please contact our Technical Support Team.

The coverage rate of FR Clear is approximately 300-350 sq ft per gallon.

• Coverage rate: 300-350 sq ft/gallon.
• Application method: Sprayer application is recommended to maximize coverage.

The final coverage rate can vary depending on the substrate's porosity and the application method used. Applying the product with a sprayer ensures an even coat and helps achieve the optimal coverage rate.

For detailed information on application methods and product coverage, please refer to the FR Clear product page.

For even distribution and uniform application, we recommend using a sprayer to apply FR Clear.

• Recommended method: Sprayer (hand or backpack pump sprayer). Mist applied, until the substrate is damp to the touch.
• Benefit of spraying: Maximizes the coverage rate and provides a more even application.

Sprayers ensure a consistent, uniform application that properly saturates the material, without drenching it. Care should be taken when using other application methods (such as brush, dip, etc.) to not over-apply the product, as this can result in chalking/salting on the surface of the material.

Learn more about the recommended application methods on the FR Clear product page.

Only one treatment of FR Clear is needed for proper application.

• Required number of treatments: One.
• Why: A single, properly applied coat provides the required fire-retardant properties.

Unlike some other products, FR Clear is designed to be effective with a single application. As long as the product is applied evenly and the substrate is able to absorb it, one coat is all that is needed to achieve the required fire-resistant treatment.

For more a demonstration of procut application on fabrics, watch this Video.

Reapplication of FR Clear depends on the substrate and its exposure to moisture, as well as requirements set forth by the local AHJ or relevant test standard.

General recommendations:

• Interior wood: Reapplication is not required in interior conditioned spaces.
• Fabrics: Re-treat after 5 washes.
• Upholstery with spot cleaning: Reapply once yearly.

Since FR Clear is a water-based treatment, its effectiveness can be compromised by exposure to moisture. While wood in a controlled interior environment retains its fire-retardant properties indefinitely, fabric and upholstery that are washed or frequently spot-cleaned may require reapplication to maintain their fire-resistant rating.

For detailed instructions and information on maintenance, please refer to the FR Clear product page or contact our Technical Support Team.

No, we do not recommend applying FR Clear over a painted substrate.

• Not recommended: Application over painted or sealed surfaces.
• Why: The product must be absorbed by the material to be effective.

FR Clear works by penetrating the substrate it is applied to, and a painted or sealed surface will prevent this absorption. For the product to provide its fire-retardant properties, it must be applied to raw, absorbent materials like untreated wood and porous fabrics.

For more on substrate requirements, please see the FR Clear product page.

No, we do not recommend applying FR Clear over vinyl.

• Not recommended: Application over vinyl.
• Why: The substrate must be able to absorb the liquid for treatment.

As a general rule, FR Clear can only be applied to materials that are able to absorb liquid. Vinyl is a non-porous material, which prevents the product from being absorbed. This is a critical factor for the product's effectiveness.

For more on the types of materials FR Clear is compatible with, please visit the FR Clear Fabrics Page.

FR Clear can be applied by anyone, unless local building codes require special certification.

• Applicator: Anyone.
• Equipment: No special equipment is required.
• Note: We recommend using a garden or backpack pump sprayer, available at most home improvement stores.

The product is user-friendly and does not require any specialized certifications or professional training for its application. We always recommend checking with your local building official to confirm any specific requirements for your project.

For detailed application instructions, please see the FR Clear product page.

FR Clear can be applied to textiles by padding, dipping, or using a spray bottle. Spray applying, as a mist, is considered best practice.

• Methods: Padding, dipping, or spraying.
• Important step: Always perform a small-scale spot test first.
• Note: textiles must be able to absorb liquid for product application to be effective. Materials that have been treated with a water repellant will not accept application of this product.

Before full-scale application, it is crucial to coat a small fabric sample with FR Clear. This spot test ensures that the product will not damage the appearance or feel of the textile. Once suitability has been verified, you can proceed with one of the recommended application methods.

For a demonstration of fabric application watch this Video.

Yes, FR Clear can typically be top-coated once it has fully cured.

• Compatibility: Typically compatible with most topcoats once cured.
• Important step: We recomend performing a spot test on a mock-up sample first. Some water based topcoats can wick the fire retardant salts back to the surface of the material, so it is important to prepare a sample. This crucial step verifies compatibility with your chosen topcoat and ensures a successful final finish.

For more information on the final steps of your project, please visit the FR Clear product page.

Yes, primer is essential for steel applications to ensure long-term adhesion and maintain the fire-resistant integrity of the coating.

Here’s what primer types we recommend to use before applying FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint:

• Structural steel (e.g., beams, columns): Apply a high-performance alkyd metal primer
• Galvanized steel (e.g., ductwork, framing): Use an all purpose acrylic primer suitable for galvanized surfaces

For detailed instructions, refer to our Fire Barrier Paint Application Guide or contact our technical team for product-specific compatibility questions.

Yes, FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint can be used on galvanized steel, but you must apply a primer first.

Recommended Primer:

• Use an all-purpose acrylic primer designed to bond to galvanized substrates. This ensures the intumescent coating adheres properly.

Tip: Galvanized coatings and surface treatments vary in composition. Always clean the surface first and consult your steel supplier for surface preparation best practices.

Learn more on our Fire Barrier Paint product page or reach out to our informed technical support for project-specific guidance.

Priming is not required when applying to standard gypsum wallboard (e.g., 5/8" Type X or non-rated drywall). However, gypsum board, like wood, is porous and can absorb much of the first coat of product.

Using a low-VOC drywall sealer or acrylic primer may help improve surface uniformity, especially in dusty or porous gypsum board environments, and limit product absorption on the first coat.

For projects involving non-standard gypsum types or joint compound-heavy areas, we recommend contacting our technical team for additional guidance.

Yes, you can achieve a 2-hour fire resistance rating using FlameOFF® Fire Barrier Paint when applied over 5/8" Type X gypsum wall assemblies, and other conditions, at the approval of the AHJ.

Recommended application:

• Apply 45 mils DFT of Fire Barrier Paint
• Ensure even coverage and use proper primer/seal coat if the surface is highly absorbent

This has been validated through third-party ASTM E119 testing, meeting industry standards for passive fire protection in commercial and residential builds.

For certified fire test reports, visit our Testing & Compliance page or request documentation via our Contact Form.

Yes! FR Clear is effective on a wide range of absorbent fabrics and textiles, making it ideal for:

• Curtains and drapes
• Wall hangings
• Event backdrops
• Theatrical scenery

It helps materials pass NFPA 701 (Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Flame Propagation of Textiles and Films), depending on fabric type and application amount.

FR Clear dries transparent and does not stiffen the fabric when applied as directed.

Always perform a small-scale test on delicate fabrics before full application. Watch this video of example of FR Clear application on fabrics for a demonstrations.

Learn more on the FR Clear page or request a Technical Data Sheet.

Absolutely. FR Clear has been tested to meet NFPA 260 — Cigarette Ignition Resistance of Upholstered Furniture Components (2019 Edition).

This makes it ideal for:

• Mattress ticking
• Headboards
• Upholstered furniture fabric
• Hospitality and dormitory furniture

Many fire codes for public facilities now require compliance with NFPA 260. FR Clear supports these requirements when applied correctly.

Read more about its fire testing certifications in the test report's tab on the FR Clear product page.

Technically, no primer is required, but using one is recommended to enhance finish quality and performance.

Wood is porous and will absorb the first layer of intumescent coating. To reduce this effect:

• Apply an all-purpose acrylic primer, OR
• Use a “seal coat” of Fire Barrier Paint: a light first coat to prime the surface, followed by the full mil thickness requirement.

You can read more about applying Fire Barrier Paint on Wood on our substrates page.

Visit our Fire Barrier Paint page or contact us for primer brand suggestions and coverage estimates.

Yes! FR Clear is a transparent fire retardant spray designed for use on wood, along with other porous materials.

FR Clear penetrates the wood surface and binds with the wood fibers to slow the spread of flames, helping your project meet ASTM E84 Class A ratings.

Visit the FR Clear product page to download tech specs, or contact our team for help meeting code requirements in your jurisdiction.

You can order FlameOFF® fire retardant products directly from our website.

To purchase:

• Visit www.flameoffcoatings.com
• Click the red ORDER NOW button in the top right corner
• Complete the secure checkout process

Alternatively, you can order each product direct from the specific product page. This way, you can review all product information before ordering.

Most orders ship within 24-48 hours from our North Carolina facility.

Need help before purchasing? Our technical support team is here to guide you.

For our customers' convenience, FlameOFF® products are sold through both 3rd party resellers and direct-to-customer through our official website.

Why buy directly from us?

• You get fresh, verified product shipped from our certified manufacturing facility in North Carolina
• You have access to expert technical support
• You ensure your purchase is eligible for compliance documentation and related fire testing

Visit our Online Store to order or reach out via our Contact Page for any purchasing questions.

All FlameOFF® orders ship from our facility in North Carolina, with delivery times depending on your location and shipping method.

Estimated transit times (FedEx/UPS Ground):

• East Coast: 2–3 business days
• Mid/Southwest: 3–5 business days
• West Coast: 5–6 business days

LTL Freight shipments (typically used for large or palletized orders) may require an additional 1–2 business days for delivery.

Need your product faster? Contact us directly to explore expedited shipping options.

You can also review full details in our Shipping Policy.

Shipping costs vary depending on:

• Product quantity
• Weight
• Delivery zone

You can easily estimate your shipping cost before checkout:

• Add the desired product(s) to your cart
• Enter your delivery ZIP code
• The system will automatically generate a real-time shipping estimate

For further questions about freight or large-volume shipping, feel free to contact our team.

Yes! FlameOFF® proudly ships to Canada.

All our products can be shipped across the border. Please note that international orders may involve customs processing, which can affect delivery time.

Visit our Shipping Policy for full Canadian and international shipping details. You can also watch our video to learn more about shipping to Canada.

Yes — FlameOFF® Coatings ships worldwide!

International shipping notes:

Standard processing time for parcel ordres: 24–48 hours

Additional time may be needed for:

• Customs document preparation
• Freight carrier schedules (especially for ocean freight)
• Palletized freight shipments and/or container loads may require additional packaging time

To learn more, visit our Shipping Policy page or contact us directly with international shipping inquiries.