By |Categories: Tips|Last Updated: June 5, 2025|

When it comes to designing commercial spaces, many decisions are driven by aesthetics: fabric color, texture, pattern, and finish. But underneath those design choices lies a crucial factor that too often goes unnoticed—flame retardancy.

For architects, interior designers, facility managers, and procurement teams, flame retardant fabrics are no longer a nice-to-have—they’re a code-driven requirement, a liability safeguard, and, increasingly, a design standard in modern commercial environments. This article explores why flame retardant materials are vital in public spaces, what codes govern them, and how to make informed sourcing decisions without sacrificing style or functionality.

The Real-World Risk of Fire in Commercial Spaces

We don’t like to think about it, but commercial interiors are highly vulnerable to fire-related risks. With higher occupancy levels, more electronics, open layouts, and varied sources of ignition, even one minor incident can turn catastrophic—unless the materials used in those spaces slow down or stop the spread of flames.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), thousands of commercial fires occur annually in office buildings, restaurants, hotels, and healthcare facilities—many of which are worsened by untreated, flammable materials.

The takeaway is simple: fire prevention must begin at the material level, and that starts with flame retardant textiles.

What Is Flame Retardancy?

Flame retardancy refers to a material’s ability to resist ignition and slow down flame spread when exposed to fire. This doesn’t mean the material won’t burn—but rather, that it burns more slowly, buys precious time, and minimizes the risk of rapid escalation.

There are two primary types of flame retardant fabrics:

  • Treated Flame Retardant (FR): Standard fabrics chemically treated after production

  • Inherently Flame Retardant (IFR): Fabrics made with fibers that are naturally flame resistant (such as aramid or modacrylic)

Both categories serve a purpose, and both are eligible to meet key safety standards—what matters is matching the material to the application and certification needs.

Key Industries That Require Flame Retardant Fabrics

Across the U.S. and beyond, flame retardant materials are mandated in a wide range of industries:

Hospitality

Hotels, event venues, and restaurants must use flame retardant curtains, wall coverings, and upholstered furniture to meet fire code.

Healthcare

Hospitals and care facilities require NFPA 701-compliant drapery and wall materials to protect patients, staff, and equipment.

Education

Schools and universities must comply with strict building and fire codes, especially in dormitories and auditoriums.

Corporate & Commercial Offices

Office seating, partitions, and decorative fabric panels must often meet CAL 117 or ASTM standards.

Government & Defense

Procurement standards for government facilities often specify flame resistance under GSA or military contract requirements.

Know Your Standards: What Flame Retardancy Codes Apply?

Knowing which standard applies to your space is critical for legal compliance and passing inspection. Here are the most common codes used in U.S.-based commercial interiors:

  • NFPA 701: Applies to vertical hangings like curtains and drapes

  • CAL TB 117-2013: Focuses on upholstered furniture smolder resistance (California standard, widely adopted nationally)

  • ASTM E84 (Steiner Tunnel Test): Measures flame spread and smoke in wall or ceiling applications

  • CAN/ULC-S109: Canadian flame resistance standard

  • IMO FTP Code: Required for international marine vessels and cruise lines

Each project’s location and use type will influence what tests are required—consulting early with a flame finishing provider like SBI can help avoid costly mistakes.

The Cost of Non-Compliance

Choosing non-FR fabrics for commercial interiors isn’t just risky—it can be costly. Non-compliant materials may lead to:

  • Failed fire inspections

  • Project delays

  • Insurance liability exposure

  • Legal fines

  • Lawsuits in the event of injury or death

And if your brand operates in multiple states or territories, you may need to meet multiple standards simultaneously. Investing in the right flame retardant treatment or inherently FR fabric up front is always cheaper than retrofitting later.

Can You Still Have Great Design With FR Fabrics?

Absolutely.

At SBI Finishing, we work with clients every day who need to maintain the integrity of high-end interior designs—while still passing code. Our proprietary treatment systems allow fabrics to retain:

  • Original color vibrancy

  • Drape and hand feel

  • Seam alignment and pattern match

  • Breathability and texture

Whether you’re working with linen, velvet, cotton blends, or synthetics, we tailor each treatment to the fabric’s characteristics to ensure both beauty and performance.

Flame Retardancy and the Environment: What You Should Know

You may have heard about environmental concerns related to flame retardant chemicals—particularly halogenated compounds or PFAS (so-called “forever chemicals”). While some legacy treatments relied on these, modern, safer alternatives now exist.

At SBI, we offer PFAS-free and low-toxicity flame retardant treatments, helping you meet both fire codes and sustainability goals. Our goal is to give you compliant, beautiful, and environmentally responsible options—without tradeoffs.

Flame Retardant Myths—Busted

Let’s clear up a few common misunderstandings:

MYTH: All flame retardant fabrics feel stiff.
FACT: With the right process, FR-treated fabrics maintain a soft, flexible hand.

MYTH: You can skip FR if you’re just doing light upholstery.
FACT: If the project is commercial, FR is almost always required by law—regardless of how much fabric is used.

MYTH: FR treatments always change the color or sheen.
FACT: Not with SBI’s controlled application and fabric-specific formulations.

Working With SBI Finishing

At SBI, we take the guesswork out of fire compliance for textiles. Whether you’re sourcing new fabric or want to treat an existing stock, we help you:

  • Choose the right treatment or fiber type for your application

  • Pass relevant codes (NFPA 701, CAL TB 117, ASTM E84, etc.)

  • Maintain your fabric’s visual and tactile appeal

  • Avoid project delays and compliance failures

  • Protect your clients, guests, or tenants with confidence

We’re more than a finishing service—we’re a compliance partner and a quality control ally for interior designers, furniture makers, and fabric suppliers nationwide.

Flame Retardancy is the Standard, Not the Exception

In commercial interiors, fire-safe materials are no longer a hidden detail—they’re a front-line design consideration. Flame retardancy isn’t about playing defense—it’s about building smart, compliant spaces that protect your investment and your people.

By choosing the right flame retardant fabrics and trusted finishing services, you position your brand for long-term credibility, safety, and regulatory peace of mind.

📦 Place your order with us at orders.sbifinishing.com/order

or call us at 903-675-1440.

post comments

some related articles