Ask the Expert Question-and-Answer Archive

by Ron Joseph

February, 2005

Intumescent Coatings

Q. What is the temperature and humidity requirements for applying intumescent paint on structural steel? Thanks so much for your help.

A. The environmental conditions at which you should not apply the intumescent coatings are to some extent determined by the coating itself. Epoxy coatings have different application properties than acrylics and I suggest that you download from the Internet, the application instructions for the specific products that you are using. Generally, paint companies do not like to see their products applied at temperatures below 50°F and/or humidity above 75%.

Again, your best bet is to look at the tech data sheets that are provided by the coating vendor.

Best wishes,

Ron Joseph