Description
Thermoguard Fire Varnish Basecoat
Thermoguard Fire Varnish Basecoat is the intumescent foundation layer within the Thermoguard Fire Varnish System for timber and wood-derived surfaces.
This specialist clear varnish is designed to provide decorative fire protection without hiding the natural beauty of timber. When exposed to heat, the coating reacts and expands to form an insulating barrier that helps protect wood from flames, heat and oxygen.
Unlike thick painted fire coatings, Thermoguard Fire Varnish Basecoat allows timber grain and character to remain visible while helping projects meet recognised fire performance standards.
What It Does
- Provides the primary intumescent fire protection layer for timber surfaces.
- Expands during fire conditions to form an insulating protective barrier.
- Helps slow flame spread and heat penetration through timber.
- Allows natural woodgrain and timber character to remain visible.
- Works as part of the complete Thermoguard Fire Varnish System.
Why Choose Thermoguard Fire Varnish Basecoat?
- Clear decorative protection: helps protect timber without covering it with opaque paint.
- Water-based technology: lower odour and easier application compared with many solvent-heavy systems.
- Suitable for high-visibility timber: ideal for feature wood where appearance matters.
- Interior and exterior compatibility: can be used with the correct Thermoguard overcoat system.
- Professional specification support: Thermoguard can assist with system selection and certification guidance.
Where It Can Be Used
- Timber wall panelling
- Wooden doors and frames
- Decorative timber cladding
- Interior timber beams
- Joinery and fitted furniture
- Timber ceilings
- Prepared previously varnished timber surfaces
Ideal For
- Hotels and hospitality projects
- Schools and colleges
- Office interiors
- Commercial refurbishments
- Luxury timber interiors
- Heritage projects
- Architectural timber features
Fire Performance
- Achieves BS476 Part 7 Class 1 surface spread of flame.
- Achieves BS476 Part 6 fire propagation performance.
- Designated Class 0 in accordance with UK Building Regulations.
- Achieves EN Class B s2 d0 performance when correctly specified.
- Can achieve 30 minute fire resistance within approved systems and specifications.
How The System Works
- Under fire conditions, the basecoat reacts rapidly to heat.
- The coating expands to create an insulating char barrier.
- This barrier helps shield timber from heat and oxygen.
- The matching Thermoguard Overcoat protects the system from UV exposure, wear and environmental damage.
- The full system must be applied correctly to achieve tested fire performance.
Compatible Overcoats
- Thermoguard Fire Retardant Varnish Overcoat Interior for internal timber projects.
- Thermoguard Fire Varnish Exterior Overcoat for external timber applications.
- Overcoats provide additional durability, UV resistance and wear protection.
- The basecoat should not normally be left exposed without the correct overcoat.
Application Information
- Two-component water-based system consisting of base and activator.
- Suitable for brush, roller and spray application.
- Ensure all surfaces are clean, dry and properly prepared before use.
- Mix components thoroughly before application.
- Apply strictly in accordance with Thermoguard technical guidance and spread rates.
Surface Preparation
- Timber must be clean, dry and free from contamination.
- Previously varnished or sealed surfaces should be abraded to provide a suitable key.
- Moisture content should normally not exceed recommended levels.
- Always test adhesion where unusual substrates or coatings exist.
Finish & Appearance
- Clear finish designed to preserve natural wood appearance.
- Enhances timber grain rather than concealing it.
- Suitable for decorative architectural woodwork.
- Designed for use beneath Thermoguard protective overcoats.
Good To Know
- This product forms only one part of the complete Thermoguard Fire Varnish System.
- The correct overcoat must always be used.
- Coverage rates are critical to achieving fire certification.
- Different timber species may affect final appearance.
- Certificate of Supply may be available for qualifying projects following correct specification and application.
Need Fire Protection Without Losing The Natural Timber Finish?
Many fire coatings completely hide the natural appearance of wood beneath thick opaque paint. Thermoguard Fire Varnish Basecoat is designed for projects where maintaining the visual character of timber is just as important as achieving tested fire performance.
Need Help Choosing The Correct Timber Fire Protection System?
Different timber types, environments and fire ratings require different varnish systems. If you are unsure which basecoat and overcoat combination is suitable for your project, contact the Thermoguard technical team before ordering.
Technical Support: 01142 768008
Email: technical@thermoguard.co.uk
