Preparation Methods

Surface Preparation Methods for Compliant Fire Protection

Every fire-protection system is only as reliable as the surface beneath it. We select the appropriate preparation method based on substrate condition, access constraints and specification requirements to ensure adhesion, durability and certified fire performance.

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Surface Profile & Adhesion

Creating the Right Roughness for Coating Performance

Mechanical abrasion produces a controlled surface roughness that allows primers and intumescent coatings to bond effectively. Surface profile must align with manufacturer requirements and relevant ISO standards to ensure adhesion, uniform coating build and reliable fire performance.

Spot Priming & Substrate Protection

Preventing Flash Rust on Prepared Steel

Following mechanical abrasion, exposed steel is immediately spot-primed to prevent flash rusting. This step stabilises the substrate, maintains surface integrity and ensures the steel remains receptive to subsequent intumescent coating application.

Spot priming is a critical control point within compliant fire-protection delivery.

Limitations of Mechanical Abrasion

Where Abrasion Alone Is Not Sufficient

Mechanical abrasion is not suitable for removing heavy mill scale, deep corrosion or widespread rust. Where these conditions are present, abrasive blasting to SA 2.5 or shot blasting is required to achieve the surface cleanliness necessary for compliant fire-protection systems.

Method selection is always determined by substrate condition and specification requirements.

Commercial Steelwork

Typical Applications on Commercial Steelwork

Mechanical abrasion is commonly used for edge preparation, bolt connections, welds, localised repairs and touch-up works. It is particularly effective where access restricts larger-scale blasting methods or where surrounding coatings must remain intact during preparation.

Other Surface Preparation Methods

Different substrate conditions require different preparation techniques. We assess corrosion levels, existing coatings and site constraints to specify the most appropriate method for compliance and long-term performance.

Surface Prep

Abrasive Blasting

Abrasive blasting used to remove coatings, corrosion, and surface contaminants, providing a clean, profiled substrate for long-term coating performance.

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Construction site showing two steel beams, one rusted red and one dark gray, with a yellow ladder and orange equipment below.

Surface Prep

Dry Ice Blasting

Non-abrasive surface preparation for removing contamination, failing coatings and residues without damaging the substrate. Particularly suited to sensitive environments and refurbishment works.

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Worker in a yellow safety vest and blue gloves inspecting a large riveted steel column inside a construction site with exposed ceiling ducts and scattered equipment.

Surface Prep

Cleaning & Degreasing

Removal of surface contaminants such as oils, dirt and residues to ensure compatibility and adhesion of fire-protection systems on new or previously coated steel.

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From the founder

“After a decade in the protective coatings industry, I built FireCoatings to deliver compliant fire protection without unnecessary noise — just clear documentation, a controlled application process, and professional site practice.”

Myles Howson

Managing Director

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"Thank you Myles and team for all your hard work on this one. It wasn't easy working around the schedule but you got it done without causing any further issues. It was a pleasure to work with you."

Chris

Project Manager, Millcroft Services

Interior view of a construction site featuring steel beams and columns painted with white protective coating and temporary support props.

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"NuColour worked efficiently around our programme and delivered a on time at late notice. The team were organised, flexible, and professional throughout the works."

Ciprian

Site Manager, Principal Contractor – GEMCO

Close-up of a bright yellow structural steel column with rivets installed on a construction site indoors.

For specialist commercial spraying, cladding coatings, and roof restoration services, visit our sister site at londonsprayers.co.uk.

FireCoatings.co.uk operates under NuColour Ltd, where all compliance, safety, and operational standards are centrally managed. This structure ensures consistent quality, robust governance, and specialist delivery on every project.

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Areas We Cover

NuColour delivers specialist contracting services across London and the surrounding regions. Our teams operate throughout the South East, supporting commercial, industrial, and large-scale refurbishment projects with consistent standards, professional oversight, and experienced delivery.

Intumescent Coatings Acton, London.

Intumescent Coatings Archway, London.

Intumescent Coatings Balham, London.

Intumescent Coatings Barking, London.

Intumescent Coatings Battersea, London.

Intumescent Coatings Beckenham, London.

Intumescent Coatings Belvedere, London.

Intumescent Coatings Bethnal Green, London.

Intumescent Coatings Brentford, London.

Intumescent Coatings Brixton, London.

Intumescent Coatings Camberwell, London.

Intumescent Coatings Camden, London.