Structural steel protection for fire safety and compliance
Structural steel protection is a key requirement of building regulations and a vital step in safeguarding your property and the people inside it.
Steel may be strong but it still needs protecting
Without adequate protection, steel elements can begin to weaken and collapse within minutes of a fire breaking out. That’s why CMC Fire Stopping is committed to providing the expert application of both reactive and non-reactive fire protection systems, helping you to meet the necessary fire resistance ratings and ensure long-term compliance.
What are reactive fire protection coatings?
Reactive coatings, particularly intumescent paints, are one of the most popular and effective ways to protect structural steel in buildings. These coatings remain passive during normal conditions, but when exposed to high temperatures, they expand to form a thick insulating char layer that slows down the transfer of heat to the steel underneath.
Our team is highly experienced in applying intumescent coatings to steelwork in a wide range of environments, from commercial buildings and high-rise developments to schools and healthcare facilities. We carefully assess the steel’s load-bearing role, required fire rating and environmental conditions before selecting and applying the right coating system.
What are reactive fire protection coatings?
Reactive coatings, particularly intumescent paints, are one of the most popular and effective ways to protect structural steel in buildings. These coatings remain passive during normal conditions, but when exposed to high temperatures, they expand to form a thick insulating char layer that slows down the transfer of heat to the steel underneath.
Our team is highly experienced in applying intumescent coatings to steelwork in a wide range of environments, from commercial buildings and high-rise developments to schools and healthcare facilities. We carefully assess the steel’s load-bearing role, required fire rating and environmental conditions before selecting and applying the right coating system.
Why choose reactive fire protection coatings?
As well as offering excellent thermal performance, intumescent coatings have a clean and aesthetic finish, making them ideal for exposed steel in modern architectural designs. We apply these coatings in accordance with manufacturer specifications and UK regulations to ensure consistent, reliable protection.
What are non-reactive fire protection methods?
In some settings, non-reactive solutions such as fire-resistant boards or cementitious sprays may be more appropriate for steel protection. These systems don’t expand in response to heat but instead act as a permanent physical barrier, providing consistent insulation against high temperatures.
Why choose non-reactive fire protection methods?
Non-reactive fire protection is particularly useful in high-risk environments, industrial buildings, and areas where impact resistance, moisture tolerance or mechanical strength is essential. The team at CMC Fire Stopping is here to install high-quality board encasement systems and fire spray coatings that meet rigorous performance standards and can be tailored to your building’s specific requirements.
Speak to our structural steel protection experts
Whether you’re at the design stage of a new build or retrofitting an existing structure, we’re here to help you choose the right fire protection strategy for your steelwork. Get in touch with CMC Fire Stopping through our contact form to book a consultation or request a quote for structural steel protection.
Why Choose Us?
Nationwide Coverage
Fast Response
Compliant with Regulation 38
Compliant with Regulation Part B
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FAQs
Why does structural steel need fire protection?
Steel loses strength rapidly when exposed to fire, potentially leading it to buckling or collapsing. Fire protection materials delay this, allowing time for evacuation and firefighting.
What materials are used to protect steel?
Common methods include intumescent coatings, fire-resistant boards and cementitious sprays, each of which are suited to different applications and aesthetics.
Is steel fire protection a legal requirement?
Yes, under UK Building Regulations (Approved Document B), structural elements must maintain load-bearing capacity during a fire for a minimum time.
Can existing steelwork be retrospectively protected?
Absolutely! Intumescent paint or boarding systems can be applied to existing structures, especially during refurbishments or fire safety upgrades.
How long does steel protection last?
With proper application and maintenance, protection can last the building’s life span. However, it should be inspected periodically, especially after renovations or damage.