The Top 10 D-Blaze FAQs

1. Can I apply a paint or stain to D-Blaze® fire retardant treated wood (FRTW)?
No. We do not recommend staining or painting D-Blaze treated wood because staining or painting could compromise the performance of the D-Blaze in terms of flame spread rating and smoke generation should a fire occur.

2. What is covered by the D-Blaze 50-year warranty?
The D-Blaze 50-year warranty covers structural failure caused by a reduction in strength below the recommended design application values of D-Blaze fire retardant treated wood products due to exposure to roof temperatures of up to 150°F/66°C (lumber) and 170°F/77°C (plywood).

3. Does D-Blaze contain urea or formaldehyde or any volatile organic compounds (VOCs)?
No. D-Blaze earned GREENGUARD Gold Certification in 2016 and is tested every year, as it does not contain urea or formaldehyde as an active ingredient or inert component, and it does not contain any VOCs.

4. What if D-Blaze FRTW is exposed to rain on the jobsite?
D-Blaze FRTW should be kept dry during transit, storage and while on the jobsite. If D-Blaze gets wet, the performance properties of the treatment may suffer. Since the degree of rain exposure will vary, if D-Blaze gets wet during transit, storage or on the jobsite, then D-Blaze FRTW must always be dried to original specifications. Unless otherwise specified, dry to a maximum moisture content of 19% for lumber and 15% for plywood before being covered or enclosed. See field notes for D-Blaze FRTW on the job site.

5. What nails or bolts should I use with D-Blaze FRTW?
National and local building codes change frequently. Viance recommends that local building codes always be consulted for lists of currently approved fasteners and fastener systems. Currently, hot-dipped galvanized steel or stainless-steel fasteners are recommended.

6. Does D-Blaze treatment affect the strength of the wood?
Yes. D-Blaze FRTW has been tested by independent laboratories following industry standards ASTM 5516 and ASTM 5664 to develop strength adjustment factors for various use conditions, including roof temperatures of up to 150°F/66°C for lumber and 170°F/77°C for plywood. Specifiers, architects, and designers should consult and adhere to the Strength Design Adjust Factors and Span Ratings published in the current D-Blaze Technical Specifications.

7. Is D-Blaze FRTW recognized by the model and building codes?
Yes. D-Blaze meets all code requirements for use in the United States as outlined by the International Residential Code (IRC) and the International Building Code (IBC) as well as the National Building Code of Canada (NBC).

8. What other testing and approvals apply?
Visit the D-Blaze product page for the latest list of testing and approvals.

9. Can D-Blaze FRTW be cut or surfaced after treatment?
Cutting to length, drilling, and diagonal cuts as well as light sanding are permitted. Exposed areas are not required to be field coated. Ripping dimensional lumber is not allowed

10. Does D-Blaze FRTW meet the requirements of the Build America and Build American Acts?
Yes. D-Blaze meets the requirements of the Buy America Act and the Buy American Act which are manufactured in the United States with American sourced timber.