top of page
Writer's pictureAdam Sawyer

Avoiding Common Mistakes in Fire Retardant Spraying for Curtains and Fabrics

Updated: Dec 16, 2023

Introduction: The Importance of Fire Retardant Spraying for Curtains and Fabrics


Fire retardant spraying is an essential step in ensuring the safety of your house or business, but it is especially critical for textiles and curtains. The spread of flames in the case of a fire can be considerably delayed or avoided by spraying these materials with fire retardant, limiting property damage and saving persons from danger. This step not only provides safety, but it may also save time and money by reducing the severity of any possible fire. You may ensure that your house or business is as safe as possible by using fire retardant spraying.



The Dangers of DIY Fire Retardant Spraying


However, attempting to apply fire retardant spray on your own can be dangerous and ineffective. Using the wrong chemicals or not applying the spray correctly can lead to discolouration, shrinkage, or limited flame resistance in the fabrics, rendering them ineffective in case of a fire. Additionally, using too much chemical can leave a sticky residue on the fabrics, making them unusable. It is important to choose a professional fire retardant spraying service to ensure safe and effective treatment.



Fire Retardant Spraying for Natural Fabrics: Overcoming Shrinkage and Discoloration


When treating natural fibres with fire retardant chemicals, it's important to choose the right chemicals to avoid the pitfalls mentioned above. The chemicals are usually water-based and so tightening can occur, especially in linen. In fact, linen can actually sag when wet but normally tightens once dry.


Make sure to choose a chemical designed for natural fibres if the majority of the material is made up of natural fibres. Light colour natural cotton such as beige can lighten or bleach if treated and exposed to UV light. This can be minimised if dried indoors.


A fire retardant spraying specialist who understands the specific requirements of these types of materials will be best placed to advise you.


Discolouration from fire retardant on light coloured cotton
Discolouration from fire retardant on light coloured cotton

Fire Retardant Spraying for Synthetic Fabrics: Flaming Debris


Synthetic fabrics such as polyester or nylon are more resistant to fire than natural fabrics, but they can still easily catch fire. Once alight they give off noxious smoke and often drip flaming debris.


It's important to choose the right fire retardant chemicals for synthetic fabrics to ensure they maintain their flame resistance over time. To achieve a suitable level of fire resistance there is a risk of not using enough chemicals or using too much. The thickness of the material being treated will require different strengths of the solution.


Additionally, it's important to have them re-treated every 5 years or 5 dry cleans to ensure that their fire resistance remains effective.




Meeting Fire Safety Standards for Curtains and Fabrics


Curtains in the home are not required to comply with any fire standards and those purchased from retailers are not fire resistant. Contract curtains (curtains used in hotels, auditoriums, schools etc) must meet the standards set out in BS 5867.


Usually, fire retardants that are purchased have been tested by a UKAS-accredited testing house or an equivalent international body, to prove their products can meet BS 5867 Part 2 Type B. By applying these products competently the required fire standard can be met.



The Importance of Professional Fire Retardant Spraying Services


If you want to avoid as best possible all the pitfalls of DIY fire retardant spraying, the best course of action is to employ the services of a Fire Retardant Spraying Specialist. They should be aware of the latest materials, chemicals, techniques and the latest standard revisions.


Most importantly of all, they can provide you with a certificate of treatment which you may need for insurance purposes or to satisfy a fire risk assessor.



Conclusion: Ensuring Safe and Effective Fire Retardant

Spraying for Curtains and Fabrics


In conclusion, fire retardant spraying for curtains and fabrics can be of great benefit to those wanting extra protection for their homes and is a requirement for businesses serving the public. Although fire retardant can be purchased from retailers online there are many points to consider before DIY treatment. Considering everything and being methodical can yield good results. The most reliable and best results will come from using the services of a fire retardant spraying specialist.



Contact Us


For more information about our fire retardant spraying services and how we can help you achieve compliance with BS 5867 Part 2 Type B standards, please feel free to contact us. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have and provide personalized quotes for your curtain and drape fireproofing needs.

  1. Call us at 07970 522475 to speak with one of our experienced team members.

  2. Email us at adam@fire-proofing.co.uk for inquiries or to request a quote.

  3. Visit our website at https://www.fire-proofing.co.uk for more information about our services.


Get Your Quote

For a personalized quote, please fill out our "Get Your Quote" form available on our website. This will help us understand your requirements better and provide you with an accurate estimate for your project.


Don't hesitate to reach out to us for assistance with fireproofing your curtains and drapes in compliance with BS 5867 Part 2 Type B standards. Our team at Fireproofing is dedicated to ensuring the safety of public spaces through high-quality fire retardant services.


 

About the Author: Adam Sawyer


Adam is an industry expert with over 35 years of experience in textile care and fire retardant treatments. He is the founder of Fireproofing, a company specializing in fire retardant spraying and application services for curtains, fabrics, upholstery, wood, and more. With a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and safety, Adam has built lasting relationships with clients and established a reputation for excellence in the field. To learn more about Adam and Fireproofing, visit About Us & Our Expert.

 

Comments


bottom of page