Every industry has terminology that is familiar to those in the field but sounds like a foreign language to the outsider. Sometimes, when we hear people use certain terms or phrases incorrectly, it can be pretty cringe-worthy. In the flameproofing industry, two terms that we often hear used incorrectly are ‘flameproofing’ and ‘fireproofing.’ While there are some similarities in their purposes, how they do their jobs are very different. Today, we’ll give you insider information regarding the distinctions between flameproofing and fireproofing.
Both flameproofing and fireproofing provide protection from fire; they both minimize the damage and severity of a fire. Yet, how they do it is very different. In very simple terms, fireproofing protects the building structure itself, and flameproofing protects individual objects and material inside the building.
Here are some more nuanced differences between the two:
Flameproofing treatments are done on individual, decorative objects and fabrics, such as curtains, rugs, drapes, textiles, wood, scenery, hangings, greens, etc. Materials are coated with or soaked in fire retardant chemicals so they will not support combustion in the event of a fire.
Fireproofing treatments are completed during the construction stage of a building, where the structure itself is treated.
Flameproofing allows a fire to be prevented or slowed down inside of a building, which will reduce the loss of property and life as well as injuries and damage due to smoke and flames
Fireproofing helps with preventing a building from collapsing during a fire.
Flameproofed materials are visible because objects inside the building are treated individually.
Fireproofed materials are not visible because the building materials are treated during the construction stage.
In flameproofing, the business owner or the person leasing the business space is responsible for making sure the required objects are treated with fire retardants.
In fireproofing, the landlord or building owner is responsible for making sure fireproofing occurred while the building was constructed.
Flameproofing objects require additional treatments if they’ve been washed, dry-cleaned or been exposed to weather.
Additional fireproofing may be needed if a building structure has undergone any kind of alterations.
Flameproofing can take place at any time because the objects are accessible and not part of the building structure.
Fireproofing must take place during the construction phase, since fireproofing impacts the structural supports and beams.
At Brooklyn Flameproofing, we are experts in treating fabrics and required objects with flame repellents. We adhere to all FDNY standards and can ensure that the interior space of your business is properly protected through flameproofing treatments. If you have need for flameproofing treatments, we are happy to serve you! Please call us today to discuss your questions and so we can provide you with a free, no-obligation quote: 800-401-5415.