Our Services

Fireproof & Intumescent Coatings

UL-listed intumescent and cementitious fireproofing systems for structural steel, applied by certified crews with full DFT documentation — keeping your project code-compliant and inspection-ready.

About This Service

Fireproof coatings are life-safety applications where there is zero margin for error. Gato Painting's crews are trained and certified in the application of thin-film intumescent coatings and spray-applied fire resistive materials (SFRM), following manufacturer specifications and third-party inspection protocols on every project.

Why It Matters

What sets our approach apart and what it means for your project.

Certified Applicators

Our crews hold manufacturer certifications for the products we apply. We follow AISC and ICC guidelines and can work directly with your special inspector.

1–3 Hour Fire Ratings

We apply systems tested and listed under UL Design numbers to achieve 1, 2, or 3-hour fire resistance ratings for columns, beams, and decks.

Full Inspection Documentation

We provide dry film thickness (DFT) logs, batch number records, and material certifications — everything your special inspector and AHJ need at closeout.

Aesthetic Topcoat Options

Intumescent systems can be topcoated with any architectural finish color, allowing exposed steel to look polished while meeting fire rating requirements.

Our Process

Every project follows a defined process that ensures quality at each stage.

  1. 1

    Shop Drawing & UL Design Review

    We review structural drawings to confirm the UL Design number, required DFT per member, and any special conditions before the project starts.

  2. 2

    Steel Surface Preparation

    Steel is prepared to SSPC SP-6 (Commercial Blast) minimum, or SP-3 (Power Tool Clean) where blasting is not feasible, to ensure product adhesion.

  3. 3

    Primer Application

    A compatible primer is applied per the UL Design and allowed to cure before the intumescent layer is started.

  4. 4

    Intumescent Coat Application

    The intumescent material is applied in multiple passes to achieve the specified DFT. Each pass is logged and measured before the next is started.

  5. 5

    DFT Verification & Topcoat

    We conduct a complete DFT survey, compile our inspection log, and apply the specified decorative topcoat before final inspector review.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is intumescent coating and how does it work?
Intumescent coatings are thin paint-like films that expand up to 50 times their original thickness when exposed to heat. This char layer insulates the steel and delays structural failure, providing time for building evacuation.
What fire ratings can you achieve?
We apply systems rated for 1, 2, and 3-hour fire resistance depending on the UL Design specified by the engineer of record.
What is the difference between intumescent and cementitious fireproofing?
Intumescent is a thin film (typically 1/8" to 3/4") that can be topcoated for a finished appearance. Cementitious SFRM is thicker and lower cost but is generally covered by ceiling systems. The engineer of record specifies which is required.
Do you coordinate with the special inspector?
Yes. We work directly with the project's special inspector, provide advance notice of operations, and supply all required documentation for their final report.

Ready to Get Started?

Contact us for a free consultation and quote on your fireproof & intumescent coatings project.