Why Contractors Partner with Firefree Coatings, Inc. for Fire-Resistant Coating Projects

For contractors working on commercial, industrial and residential projects, fire protection is often part of the job scope. Architects, building owners and project managers want coatings that are tested, documented and backed by a manufacturer who supports the people applying them. That is where Firefree Coatings, Inc., a California-based manufacturer of intumescent and fire-resistant coatings, comes in.

What Is an Intumescent Coating?

An intumescent coating expands when exposed to high heat. It forms an insulating layer that helps slow heat transfer to the surface underneath. Firefree coatings are applied in multiple layers using a brush, roller or spray equipment. The number of layers and the thickness depend on the substrate and the level of fire protection needed. That is why correct application by trained contractors matters so much.

The Firefree Product Line for Contractors

Firefree Coatings, Inc. offers three products that contractors can specify and apply.

Firefree 88®
Firefree 88® is a premium intumescent fire-resistant coating. It is designed for:

• walls, floors and ceilings

• roof/ceiling and floor/ceiling assemblies

• individual structural members

It can be used on structural steel, wood, concrete and gypsum board. Firefree 88 is UL Classified (R14654) on OSB and Douglas fir, FM Approved per FM 4975, and ICC Listed (ESR 4271).

Firefree Class A
Firefree Class A is a fire-retardant paint for wood, including OSB, plywood, Douglas fir, dimensional lumber, wood paneling and sheathing. It is tested to ASTM E84 standards, including the 30-minute extended test. It applies like regular paint using standard painting equipment. For exterior use, it must be paired with Firefree Exterior Topcoat.

Firefree Exterior System
The Firefree Exterior System is a two-step coating system for wildland-urban interface areas. It consists of a base coat, a top coat and an optional sealer. It is applied to exterior surfaces such as wood, siding, eaves and decks.

Tested to Recognized Fire Standards

Contractors need products they can stand behind when a project is reviewed. Firefree products are tested to standards including:

• ASTM E119

• ASTM E84

• ASTM E1354

• ASTM E662

• FM 4470

• FM 4975

Before starting a job, always check the product data sheet and listed assemblies to confirm which rating applies to your project.

What the Firefree Contractor Program Offers

The Firefree Contractor Program is built for professional contractors who want a dependable coatings partner. Contractors who join get:

• Third-party certified and accredited products to support project submittals

• Technical and engineering support from the Firefree team when questions come up on a job

• Product training so crews understand surface preparation, layering and application methods

• A place on the Preferred Contractor’s List. Property owners regularly contact Firefree to find qualified contractors near them who specialize in its coatings.

• Dedicated customer care throughout the project

For contractors, this means more than buying a coating. It means having a manufacturer you can call while the work is in progress.

Where Firefree Coatings Are Used

Firefree coatings have been used across a wide range of industries, including:

• Schools and healthcare facilities

• Historic buildings

• Food facilities

• Transportation and aerospace

• Hospitality

• Commercial, energy and construction projects

This variety gives contractors opportunities in many sectors, not just one niche.

Why Qualified Application Matters

Firefree coatings must be applied by a qualified professional. Good results start with a clean, dry surface free of contaminants. From there, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of coats and the required thickness for the substrate. Trained contractors who understand these steps deliver results that hold up to inspection. They also protect their own reputation on every project.

How to Join the Firefree Contractor Program

If your company works on construction, renovation or fire protection projects, partnering with Firefree Coatings, Inc. can help you offer clients a tested intumescent coating solution. You also get training and technical support behind you.

To get started, visit the Firefree contractor page and submit the project form with your details, or email the team at [email protected]. The Firefree team will be in touch to discuss your projects and next steps.