Heat-Resistant Coating

Question:

I have seen your response to another question regarding the painting of the tiles around the fireplace. I have a similar problem. We have a multi-fuel-burning stove that gives off a large amount of heat. Above it we have a shelf that gets hot. I am concerned that the shelf will burn or bubble (it is a chipboard one with a fake wood covering). Can you suggest a paint or covering that will protect this shelf from becoming a hazard. Thank you. K. P.

Answer:

Your concern is well founded. Bubbling is one thing, burning is another. I don't like burning. It could be injurious to your health!

You should look into an intumescent coating for application on your chipboard shelf. Intumescent coatings are designed to bubble when they are exposed to extreme heat. The bubbles are rigid and form a thermal insulating barrier to keep flammable substrates from burning. These materials are sold as fireproofing coatings for industrial and commercial buildings. As such, they should be available from folks who supply products for industrial and commercial buildings. Another source of information would be commercial insurance companies. Fire underwriters are aware of intumescent coatings and could possibly recommend a source of supply.