What is a Fire Retardant?

This can best be demonstrated by the use of a flame strip:

  • A flame strip is 2” X 4” piece of paper treated with Inspecta-Shield to the top half only and allowed to dry completely.

  • Because the ignition point of paper is lower than the flame of a butane lighter (which burns between 350 and 400 degrees), untreated paper will support ignition upon contact.

  • When the untreated portion of a flame strip is lighted (and put in a fire proof receptacle), and then self-extinguishes, it is due to the application of Inspecta-Shield which has raised the ignition point of the treated portion of the flame strip to about 2500 degrees. (Propane torches burn at about 2500 degrees, butane burns at 1700 degrees, glass melts at 2500 degrees.)

  • Inspecta-Shield applications will not prevent charring, but treated items will not support ignition.

What is a "Class A" Fire Retardant?

The American Society for the Testing and Materials (ASTM) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) are two nationally recognized organizations, which have developed flamability tests, setting standards of flammability. On a scale of 0 – 200 (least to most), only those materials with a flame spread of under 25 qualify as a “Class A” Fire Retardants.

Questions and Answers about Inspecta-Shield™

What is Inspecta-Shield?

Inspecta-Shield is a durable, non-toxic, fire retardant chemical coating, which is carried, in an aqueous (water) solution. When completely dried and cured, it is both odorless and colorless, and is visible only under a long wave ultraviolet light. Inspecta-Shield can be applied to a wide variety of items including carpeting, bedding, upholstery, draperies, paper and lumber. When properly applied, Inspecta-Shield meets or exceeds the criteria for a “Class A” rating on most materials.

How is Inspecta-Shield different from other fire retardants?

Inspecta-Shield can treat both natural and synthetic materials. It is visible under long wave ultraviolet light so that the initial application and any need for reapplication can easily be checked. Inspecta-Shield is UV stable and has been demonstrated to significantly inhibit sun fading and sun rot. Inspecta-Shield dries to an invisible durable protective shield with no residue or rings to change the aesthetics of treated items. When dry, Inspecta-Shield is non-corrosive to metal.

Does Inspecta-Shield work on everything?

No. Inspecta-Shield only works on items that are absorbent or that will allow Inspecta-Shield silica’s to adhere to them. In other words, Inspecta-Shield can only treat items it can reach. An easy test is to apply a drop of water to the surface of the material. If the water does not bead up, the items can be treated with Inspecta-Shield. Because of its unique penetration formula, Inspecta-Shield is able to effectively retard lumber and many fabrics previously coated with a soil repellent.

Is Inspecta-Shield safe to use?

Yes! It’s very simple. Carefully spray Inspecta-Shield with a small lightweight sprayer, being sure to cover all exposed surfaces. As soon as Inspecta-Shield is completely dry, it works! After application is completed, fill out and sign the application for certificate of flame resistance form enclosed with the product and return it to N.Y. Fire-Shield. Upon satisfactory review, your Certificate of Flame resistance will be issued. 

How often does Inspecta-Shield need to be reapplied?

Inspecta-Shield is extremely durable and will not wear off under normal use and normally will withstand numerous dry cleanings. However, there can be a slight loss of Inspecta-Shield in washing. Reapplication is recommended after washing to maintain flame retardancy. 

How much does Inspecta-Shield cost?

Inspecta-Shield is an inexpensive method of fire protection considering that fire causes many needless deaths and billions of dollars of damage in property losses every year. A gallon of Inspecta-Shield covers an average area of 500 sq. ft. for textiles and 300 sq. ft. for lumber, depending on material fibers and lumber thickness. Inspecta-Shield virtually protects your valuables and irreplaceables for pennies!  

Advantages of Inspecta-Shield™ over other Fire Retardants

  • U.L. Classified Listing No. 79P1

  • Non-Toxic and Non-Allergenic

  • Treats both natural and synthetic materials, as well as lumber and wood products.

  • Meets or exceeds governmental criteria for a Class “A” Fire Retardant on most materials.

  • Durable: will not wear off under normal use and normally will withstand numerous dry cleanings. Allows fibers to breathe.

  • Sun-Shield, a UV stabilizer, drastically reduces sun fading and sun rot, increasing decorating options and fabric life.

  • Visible only under long wave UV light.

  • Odorless and colorless.

  • Treated items maintain tensile strength.

  • Leaves no uncomfortable residue or unsightly salt rings after treatment.

  • Non-corrosive to metal when dry.

  • Ready to use: no mixing required (Quality Control).

  • Economical.