Quick Facts of Fire Retardant Paint for Spray Foam Insulation (SPF)

If you have recently installed spray foam insulation in your house, shop or business, chances are pretty good you will need to coat it with fire retardant paint. The fire marshal is usually happy to explain that to you, and not let you back in the building until it is painted.

We get a lot of business from people who didn't know they had to paint their foam. I love those folks.

What Is Spray Foam Insulation?

Spray foam insulation (SPF) is a versatile material made from a blend of isocyanate and polyol resin. When applied, it expands and hardens, creating an airtight seal that boosts energy efficiency and reduces air leakage.

SPF comes in two types:

• Open-cell foam: Lightweight with good soundproofing and moderate insulation.
• Closed-cell foam: Denser and moisture-resistant, offering superior insulation.

People commonly use SPF in residential and commercial settings for its ability to fill hard-to-reach spaces and provide long-lasting performance.

Is Spray Foam Insulation Flammable?

Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) is flammable, and makes some nasty smoke. Some types of foam already have an appropriate fire rating, so you may want to ask about that. That kind of foam doesn't require painting.

For marijuana grow houses that are converting warehouse space into growing space, be aware that fire code officials are paying extra attention to you. They are looking at foam, exposed wood, electrical conduit, SIPS, etc.

The company that does your spray foam installation may not be equipped to paint your foam. It's two different sets of equipment and skill sets. But be sure to ask them what kind of foam they are applying - brand, density, type, closed cell/open cell, etc.

It makes a difference on the type and thickness of the paint you apply. Just give us that info, and we can tell you what kind of paint will work for you.

Also know that the paint used for spray foam is pretty thick, and may require a paint spray rig that is stronger than most consumer models. We can advise you on that as well.

Fire Retardant Paints for Spray Foam

Fire retardant paint for spray foam insulation comes in a limited color range - white, ice grey, dark grey and black. However, FireGard is rated for exterior foam and comes in 24 colors.

Here are some of our top fire retardant paints for spray foam:

DC315

An intumescent fire-retardant coating for spray polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation. It expands under heat to form a protective char, meeting ASTM E84 and NFPA 286 standards. Ideal for residential and commercial buildings.

FireGard for Exterior

Designed for outdoor applications, this coating reduces flammability on wood, siding, and fabrics, making it useful in wildfire-prone areas. Meets NFPA and ASTM standards and can be sprayed or brushed onto surfaces.

FireShell F10E

A versatile intumescent coating for both interior and exterior surfaces, including wood, gypsum, and SPF insulation. It expands under heat, slowing fire spread and complying with UL, ASTM, and NFPA standards.

Contego

A fire-retardant coating for steel, wood, and other materials. When exposed to fire, it swells to form an insulating char. Suitable for industrial, commercial, and residential applications, meeting ASTM E84, UL 263, and NFPA 286 standards.

Get Your Fire Retardant Paint

If you find yourself needing to paint your foam, give us a call at 405-702-0055, and we'll take care of you. And if you need it REALLY FAST, let us know. We'll make some calls.