Is Dulux Paint Fire Retardant?

Fire safety is a top priority when selecting paints for both residential and commercial buildings. With an increasing focus on creating safer spaces, fire-retardant paint has gained popularity as an effective solution to delay the spread of flames. Among the established paint brands, Dulux consistently stands out, offering a trusted range of products that include fire-resistant options. But what exactly does this mean for your projects? Let’s break it down.

What is fire retardant paint?

Fire-retardant paint is a specialised coating designed to reduce the flammability of the surface it is applied to. When exposed to high heat, these paints react chemically to limit the spread of flames, buying critical time for evacuation and firefighting.

It’s worth noting that fire-retardant paint is distinct from heat-resistant paint. While heat-resistant paint protects surfaces from degradation at high temperatures, fire-retardant paint actively slows down fire escalation. This difference makes fire-retardant options a go-to for public and residential spaces where fire safety is a core concern.

A man stands in an urban tunnel surrounded by fiery light trails and graffiti art.
Photo by Sky Barker

How Fire Retardant Paint Works

Fire retardant paint protects surfaces by undergoing a chemical reaction when exposed to flames. Here’s how it functions:

Reducing oxygen availability: Fire-retardant paint emits non-combustible gases, depleting oxygen levels around the flame.
Heat absorption: Some formulations absorb heat, reducing the overall temperature of the surface and slowing down combustion.
Char barrier formation: The paint can swell to form an insulating barrier, known as “intumescence,” which prevents spread and reduces damage to the substrate.

These mechanisms highlight how fire-retardant coatings enhance building safety by preventing fires from spiralling out of control.

Key Benefits of Fire Retardant Paint

Opting for fire-retardant paint offers numerous advantages:

Enhanced fire safety: These coatings extend the time it takes for flames to spread, improving overall safety during emergencies.
Compliance with regulations: Many building codes now require fire-retardant solutions, especially in commercial and high-occupancy spaces.
Preservation of structural integrity: By combating heat and flame exposure, such paints can prolong the lifespan of materials.
Aesthetic flexibility: Modern fire-retardant paints, including Dulux’s offerings, come in a variety of finishes and colours, enabling both safety and style.

For additional insights into the benefits of fire retardant paint, check here.

The Dulux Pyroshield Range

Dulux, a renowned name in decorative and protective coatings, offers the Pyroshield range—a fire-retardant paint line specifically formulated to improve fire safety. This solution is commonly used in spaces requiring adherence to strict fire safety regulations, making it ideal for commercial properties, schools, and hospitals.

Pyroshield Durable Eggshell Features

The Pyroshield Durable Eggshell stands out in Dulux’s fire-retardant lineup. Its features include:

Water-based formulation: This eco-friendly approach reduces VOC emissions, ensuring better indoor air quality.
Stain and scuff resistance: A durable finish that is easy to maintain, even in high-traffic areas.
Upgraded fire classification: It upgrades surfaces from a Class 3 to a safer Class 0 classification, enhancing fire resistance standards.

For detailed product specifications, refer to the official Dulux data sheet.

How the Pyroshield Range Compares to Competitors

Dulux competes with major players such as Bollom and Thermoguard, which also specialise in fire protection coatings. However, Dulux’s Pyroshield range excels in offering a balance of durability, ease of application, and fire performance upgrades, making it a preferred choice for many professionals. For instance, its water-based technology makes it safer compared to solvent-based alternatives.

Application and Suitability of Dulux Fire Retardant Paint

Dulux fire-retardant paints, including the Pyroshield range, are versatile and can be applied to various substrates such as:

Plastered walls
Cement render
Wooden surfaces

These paints are particularly useful for communal spaces like schools, offices, and hospitality venues. Always consult a professional to determine suitability for specific substrates.

Recommended Application Methods

Proper preparation is crucial for optimal fire resistance. Here’s a quick guide:

Surface preparation: Ensure surfaces are clean, dry, and free from grease or dirt.
Primer application (if required): Apply a suitable primer before the fire-retardant coating.
Coating thickness: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the number of coats and drying times. This ensures the fire performance standards are met.

Safety Precautions During Application

When working with fire-retardant paints, it’s essential to observe safety precautions:

Wear protective clothing, gloves, and goggles.
Check for lead paint if working on older surfaces.
Dispose of paint waste responsibly, adhering to local waste disposal regulations.

To learn about handling fire-retardant products in greater detail, visit Dulux Flame Retardant Range.

Other Fire Retardant Paint Options from Dulux

Beyond the Pyroshield range, Dulux offers additional fire-protection solutions like FIRETEX Platinum-120. This coating is engineered to provide up to 120 minutes of cellular fire protection, making it a valuable asset in industrial and structural applications. You can find more details here.

Conclusion

Dulux fire-retardant paints, particularly the Pyroshield range, are a reliable solution for enhancing fire safety without compromising aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re refurbishing a commercial space or a community facility, Dulux combines trusted quality with certified safety standards. By choosing their fire-retardant coatings, you invest in both protection and peace of mind for your spaces.