Why are Additives for Paints Added?

If we asked you what kind of paint you needed for your home, would you know what to answer? We're looking for an answer beyond a color of even semi-gloss. We want you to know that paint can and should be your last line of defense against a catastrophic fire. This can be achieved through additives.

What Are Additives for Paints?

Using the conventions of the World Coatings Council, additives are divided into five categories. The term “additives” is simply a catch-all phrase for chemicals that typically have the ability to react (either permanently or transiently) with other chemicals in a paint and coatings formulation or the surface of the substrate onto which the paint is applied.

Paint can do more than make something look pretty. There's actually quite a few different types of additives, all of which help your paint do more than sit there. Paint additives are used to prevent defects in the coating, like foam bubbles. As well, they can also be used to impart specific properties to the paint, like flame retardance. These characteristics would otherwise be difficult or impossible for the paint to achieve.

Paint Additives Purpose

The purpose of paint additives is to enhance more than just color or finish. These ingredients are engineered to improve application, boost performance, and add specialized traits to a coating—like moisture resistance, UV protection, or fire resistance.

In the case of flame retardant additives, the goal is clear: slow down ignition and reduce the spread of flames. This added layer of protection can turn a standard coating into a life-saving barrier in emergencies.

Dekgard offers advanced formulations designed to support safer, smarter paint systems. Whether you need a smoother application or a fire retardant paint additive, the right blend of additives makes all the difference.

How Do Paint Additives Improve Quality?

Wondering how paint additives improve quality? These components help coatings perform better in real-world conditions. They minimize imperfections, improve drying time, and enhance durability—especially on demanding surfaces.

For example, flame retardant additives are crucial in safety-focused applications. They boost a paint’s resistance to heat and flames, which is essential in both residential and commercial settings.

If you're using a high-quality additive like M-111PA or FS3 from Dekgard, you're not just painting—you’re upgrading your space with lasting protection and elevated performance.

Our Top Recommendations for Additives for Paints

There are fire retardant additives that raise the ignition temperature of a coating. Additives are critical components for the successful formulation of paint that gives you valuable time in the event of a fire. A few minutes makes a huge difference during a structure fire, so every second counts.

We take pride in being your go-to resource for all things related to fire retardants. As you browse our website, you will see two main choices in additives for paints. These are:

M-111PA Fire Retardant Additive for Paint

This is a fire-retardant paint additive for latex paint with a Class A fire rating. It can be used for both interior and exterior-grade latex paints. Airless spray gun application is recommended, but smaller applications may use a high-quality paint brush or paint roller. It is recommended that you treat the substrate with a water-based flame retardant prior to painting.

FS3 - Additive for Fire Retardant Paint

This is one of the most unique fire retardants available on the market today! Just one application of FS3 Paint Additive will provide a Class A fire rating. Simply add one pint, as it comes in the container, per each gallon of paint, and then add one pint of clean water. Your paint is now giving you extra protection!

Make today the day you shop for the fire retardants, including additives for paints, you need in order to be fully protected. A fire won't wait, and neither should your shopping for the right products.

Make Every Layer Count With Protection

Choosing the right flame retardant additives can significantly increase the protective value of your paint. Whether you're working on a home, commercial building, or specialized facility, the right additive can buy critical time during a fire emergency. More than just a finishing touch, these additives enhance safety, boost performance, and give your coatings a functional edge.

By incorporating fire protection into your paint system from the start, you're not only improving quality—you're investing in peace of mind and long-term resilience.