Drywall

Drywall/Gypsum wallboard (GWB) is an accepted fire barrier; however, it is also a huge fuel source for the first few minutes of exposure to a fire or even temperatures higher than 451 Fahrenheit. That’s because the paper fascia on gypsum wallboard, even fire rated GWB, is PAPER – paper coated with flammable paint.  (Not only is it an enormous fuel source, it may also be toxic in a fire.)  Once the paper burns off, the gypsum goes to work protecting the substrate; but initially, the painted paper fascia will flare and can wildly accelerate temperature rise and trigger flashover in adjoining rooms.

By using a standard GWB and applying a coating of Contego fire barrier intumescent latex paint, you achieve superior drywall fire protection and approach the parameters of a “Type X” rating.  A 10 mil DFT (dry film thickness) coat of Contego adds 55 minutes of burn time to any layer of GWB.  Contego protects the paper fascia while maintaining a flame spread and smoke production rating of 0×0. To receive the “Type X” designation under ASTM C 36, a gypsum board product must be shown to achieve not less than a one-hour fire resistance rating for 5/8″ board or a 3/4-hour fire resistance rating for 1/2″ board applied in a single layer, when tested in accordance with the requirements of ASTM E 119, Methods of Fire Test of Building Constructions and Materials.

Contego is super thin, paper smooth and wonderfully aesthetic. Contego has a pleasant scent, zero VOC’s, and is completely non-toxic, both in the can and during a burn.  Forget about rescheduling other trades during your project.  Contego has no health risks and is completely inoffensive.

Ask for a sample kit to learn more about how Contego is revolutionizing the world of fire resistant coatings.