House of Fabrics

Flame Retardant Treatment

When using fabric for Domestic Upholstery the majority require additional treatment to ensure they are compliant with current British Legislation BS5852 Pt 1 Source 1. This treatment can be either a chemical back-coating or use of a Schedule 3 Interlining underneath the fabric. It is always recommended to consult with your upholsterer regarding the FR Treatment and what is required for your situation. Any FR Treatment would be an additional charge and it’s price is subject to the order.

Back-Coating

The majority of fabrics will need to have a chemical back-coating to ensure they are compliant. This includes any fabrics with mixed fibre compositions and/or synthetic fibres. This treatment takes approx. 2 weeks and would be subject to a sample of the fabric being tested. We would recommend a 5% allowance for shrinkage and 0.5m for testing is included in the quantity ordered. A FR Certificate would be made available to you once the fabric has completed the treatment and passed.

Interlinings

Some fabrics with 100% natural fibres (such as Cotton or Linen) do not require the back-coating treatment but instead can be used with a Schedule 3 Interlining. This would provide the furniture with the same level of protection and ensure it is compliant with current British Legislation. The interlining is available to purchase on our website here. Please note; our Sales Team are happy to check your fabric choice is suitable to use with interlining before an order is placed.

There are other levels of treatment available, such as Contract Upholstery which would be for use in a public space such as an office, school, holiday rental, etc. There is also Contract Curtain treatment which would be for fabric made into curtains in a public space such as a hotel or theatre.

If are you unsure as to which treatment is appropriate we would recommend you consult your upholsterer and/or your local fire station.