Choosing the right kind of fire retardant curtains can be an intimidating task, given the bevy of options on the market. Although most people still opt for regular curtains without paying much attention to the material or its properties, having high-quality fire retardant curtains is an excellent way to enhance the safety of your home or office space without relaying any aesthetic charm. This article aims to offer an insightful guide to select the best fire retardant curtains.
Fire retardant curtains have the capability to slow down or completely quell the spread of fire, potentially saving your property, and more importantly, lives. This characteristic is all down to how the fabric is treated chemically or the type of material used in the construction. Their efficacy is measured in NFPA 701 standard in the US, and for British standards, it is primarily BS 5867-2. While selecting the right curtain, it’s advisable to opt for ones that meet these standards.
Contrary to popular belief, fire retardant curtains don’t compromise on aesthetics and are available in multifarious designs, colors, and sizes. From opaque to sheer, plain to patterned, you can find fire retardant curtains that can blend well with your interior while offering unprecedented safety.
While choosing high-quality fire retardant curtains, the first thing to consider is the fabric. Popular materials include polyester, modacrylic, and fiberglass. Fiberglass is considered the most effective as it’s inherently non-flammable and doesn’t require any additional chemical treatment. Other notable non-flammable materials include aramid and rayon. A blend of cotton and polyester can also effectively resist fire but often require chemical treatment.
Remember that the term ‘fire retardant’ does not suggest the curtains are invincible to fire. It just means that these curtains resist the ignition longer, slow down the fire from spreading, and can self-extinguish once the source is removed. The flame-resistant capability can vary based on fabric type, weave density, and chemical treatment done.
Consider the location and purpose of the curtain before choosing one. Curtains for theatrical purposes, for instance, require a higher fire retardant standard due to high-intensity lighting systems commonly used. For residential purposes, even though safety should never be compromised, you can choose lighter materials.
Regular cleaning to remove dust and dirt is preferable to maintain the effectiveness and longevity of these curtains. However, you must ensure that the cleaning process won’t compromise the fire-resistant properties of the curtain. It’s worth checking the cleaning instructions and, when needed, resorting to professional cleaning services.
Product certification is a crucial factor to consider when buying fire-retardant curtains. It ensures that the product has passed all tests and meets the necessary safety standards. Look for the NFPA 701 (National Fire Protection Association) certification in the US, and if you’re in the UK, look for BS 5867-2 conformity.
Cost is another factor that comes into play while choosing fire retardant curtains. Good-quality fire retardant curtains might be pricier than regular curtains but considering the added safety factor, it’s an investment worth making.
In conclusion, the safety value that fire retardant curtains bring to your premises is irreplaceable. Therefore, it’s important to prioritise quality, certification, and material over cost while choosing one. Following this guide will provide you with a reliable roadmap fire retardant curtains to the perfect fire retardant curtains for your setting, focusing on a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of interior safety.